Federated Rural Electric, Jackson, salutes the winners in its 2019 Youth Tour Contest.
Winning the grand prize was Lydia Steinhaus; she won Federated’s free trip to Washington, D.C. June 15-20. Steinhaus is the daughter of Paul & Lynn. Lydia is a junior at Martin Luther High School. She will be among 1,500 teenagers from across the country participating in Youth Tour, which is sponsored by electric cooperatives. She will tour the D.C. memorials and sites, witness Congress in session, visit with legislators and enjoy an evening dinner theater, while learning about cooperatives.
Second and third place awards of $150 and $100 were awarded to Amber Ruthenbeck and Emily Stauter. Ruthenbeck received second place. She is the daughter of Les & Lori, Okabena. She is a sophomore attending Heron Lake-Okabena High School. Stauter is a sophomore at Granada Huntley East Chain High School. She is the daughter of Rob & Lynda, Welcome.
Each applicant completed an application and an essay on an energy-related topic. Five students entered the contest. The applicants also received a $20 gift certificate to Amazon.com. The finalists were called back for personal interviews March 18.
The other two finalists were Sarah Harstad, and Annelise Regier. Harstad is a senior at Fairmont High School; she is the daughter of Douglas & Lisa. Regier is a sophomore at Mountain Lake High School; she is the daughter of John & Amy.
“Federated is proud to sponsor this contest,” said General Manager Scott Reimer. “It’s an investment in our youth and future. This trip gives local teens exposure to our industry and government in action. These are our future leaders and I’m happy to report that we are in good hands.”