High school juniors invited to apply for Washington DC Youth Tour

La Plata Electric/NRECA sponsoring all expenses paid trip set for June 11-18, 2009

DURANGO, Colo. - La Plata Electric Association (LPEA), in partnership with The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), is seeking high school juniors interested in participating in the National Rural Electric Youth Tour to Washington D.C., set for June 11-18, 2009. Application deadline is Dec. 12, 2008.

Annually, high school juniors sponsored by LPEA join students from electric co-ops across Colorado for this unique and all expenses paid experience to Washington D.C. It features an intimate look at the federal government and the nation’s capitol, including interaction with Colorado’s elected representatives. Social activities with new friends are also part of the adventure.

“Given that this is a new administration, and the country is looking at not only change but challenges – especially in the energy industry – this year’s D.C. trip promises to be one of the most dynamic we’ve ever organized,” said Jeannie Bennett, LPEA public relations manager who coordinates the trip for the cooperative. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and we really encourage our local high school students to apply.”

All area high school juniors who receive their electric power from LPEA are eligible to participate. LPEA will sponsor one student from each municipality – Durango, Bayfield, Pagosa Springs and Ignacio, and home-school students are also eligible.

To be considered, students are asked to complete the D.C. Tour application and submit it to LPEA, along with an essay of 500 words or less covering any aspect of the electric energy industry. Participants will be selected based on their essays, which will be reviewed by an independent committee. Those selected will be notified over the holidays.

Applications are available on the LPEA web site, www.lpea.coop, from high school counselors or at the LPEA Durango and Pagosa Springs offices. For further information or questions, contact Jeannie Bennett, 970.382.3505, or jbennett@lpea.coop.

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