River View High School Art Students "Band Together" In National Crosley Record Player Design Contest (Photo) - 10/30/25

FINLEY, WA - River View High School is proud to participate in the nationwide Crosley Custom Cruiser Contest, where students from more than 200 high schools across the U.S. have transformed the iconic Crosley Cruiser record player into original works of art. River View’s entry was created by two seniors and two freshmen, who collaborated over several weeks to develop a one-of-a-kind design under this year’s theme, “Band Together.”

Using acrylic paint and markers, the student team brought their imagination to life with a whimsical — and slightly spooky — scene featuring a trio of vampires joyfully sharing their music with cheerful goblins.

“We got inspired by the month of October,” the students shared in their artist statement. “To deepen the festive atmosphere, we added spider webs, bats, and a chilly night background that really helped set the scene. Each of us contributed our own artistic touch - from designing characters and instruments to blending the colors that make the scene come alive. Through teamwork, lunch meetings, and staying after school to paint, we created something we are incredibly proud to present.”

River View art teacher Danielle Helvie-Juarez said the project provided a meaningful way for students to connect creativity, collaboration and craftsmanship.

As part of the national contest, the River View High School students need community votes to advance. Community members are encouraged to vote daily during the Nov. 3-7 voting period. To vote visit crosleyradio.com/cruiser-contest, browse entries in five geographic regions, you can vote once per day in each region.

Regional winners determined by public vote will move forward to a national judging round. A Crosley panel will then evaluate creativity, craftsmanship, and thematic storytelling to select the Grand Prize Winner.

The prizes include:

• Grand Prize: $2,500 for the school’s art program + up to 25 Crosley Cruiser record players for participating students

• 2nd–5th Place: $500 for the school’s art program

• Best Social Media Video: $500 for the school’s art program + up to 25 record players for participating students

The contest promotes hands-on creativity and supports art programs at a time when many schools face limited funding. It also reminds students that music and art bring people together - the essence of this year’s theme.

“Getting vinyl into the hands of the next generation isn’t just about nostalgia - it’s about giving students a tangible, tactile connection to music,” said Andrea Wellkamp, Vice President of Product Development and Merchandising at Crosley. “These students aren’t just creating art; they’re becoming part of music culture in a real and meaningful way.”

About the Contest

Originally piloted in Kentucky in 2024, the Custom Cruiser Contest has grown into a nationwide initiative supporting art classrooms across the country. Participating schools received a Crosley Cruiser record player to design, paint, or decorate based on the theme “Band Together.” Each school submitted seven photos of their creation and a short artist statement describing their inspiration.

About River View High School

River View High School, part of the Finley School District, fosters creativity and community through strong visual arts and career-connected learning programs. The school’s art department provides students with opportunities to explore multiple mediums, collaborate across grade levels, and showcase their work locally and nationally.