September 13, 2010

Retirees Launch Statewide NV Energy Accountability Television Ad Campaign
Ad features Sylvester Kelley, an NV Energy retiree who earned a Purple Heart in
World War II and is now losing his healthcare benefits

RENO, NV — NV Energy retirees launched a statewide television accountability ad campaign today against their former employer to protect the 600 retirees threatened by the slashing of healthcare benefits.

The thirty-second television spot, which will run in both Las Vegas and Reno media markets, features Sylvester Kelley, an NV Energy retiree from Silver Springs. Watch the video by clicking here.

In 1945, the World War II veteran was left with a disfigured hand after surviving a tank attack. While most of his wounds eventually healed, one finger on his right hand was damaged beyond repair.

After returning home, Sylvester learned that his damaged hand would not fit into the regulation glove required to get a job with NV Energy. Sylvester then made the decision to have his finger amputated so his hand would fit into the safety glove. He went on to serve as a lineman, and serve Nevada, for over 40 years.

“I served NV Energy for forty years – I know the meaning of service and sacrifice,” says Sylvester Kelly. "Now when I need help, they won’t lift a finger to help me.”

NV Energy is breaking its promise to Sylvester Kelley and 600 other retirees by slashing healthcare benefits when they need it most. NV Energy is telling retirees that these cuts are necessary – even after reporting $180 million in profits last year, collecting $134 million in federal bailout cash and paying its CEO Michael Yackira over $4.5 million in compensation.

The Shame on NV Energy campaign has spotlighted the company’s greed in full-page newspaper and radio ads throughout Nevada, as well as internet banner ads. The campaign's Facebook group, Facebook.com/ShameOnNVEnergy, has over 6,000 supporters.


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The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1245 has represented workers at NV Energy since 1945. Overall, the union represents roughly 20,000 energy workers in Nevada and California.