Sierra Pacific Power Company
Contact: Karl Walquist, 834-3891
Bob Sagan, 834-4834
Phone: see above

For Immediate Release

Sierra Pacific Power Co. showed its pride in America by distributing thousands of free U.S. flag decals to its customers and employees so they can demonstrate their solidarity following the terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, D.C. The utility also contributed to the relief effort led by the American Red Cross.

"We thought this would be an appropriate way to help Nevadans show their support for America after the terrible tragedy that occurred last week,"said Jeff Ceccarelli president of Sierra Pacific Power."It is important to show our respect for those who were lost and to demonstrate our resolve."

The company has also hung a large American flag on the front of its Neil Road office building.* $15,000 Donation to Red Cross

At a press conference, Ceccarelli also announced that the company donated $15,000 to the Sierra Nevada Chapter of the American Red Cross on behalf of Sierra Pacific's shareholders. The donation will be used to provide assistance to local families affected by attacks on the United States.

"We are deeply saddened by what happened,"Ceccarelli said."We're making this contribution to help alleviate the impact of the disaster on the people in northern Nevada. Because of the enormity of the tragedy, many residents in our area have family ties to victims."

The company's contribution will help the Sierra Nevada Chapter of the American Red Cross provide assistance to relief workers bound for New York City or Washington, D.C., and assist local residents who have family members impacted by the disaster.

Added Ceccarelli,"We want to encourage other local companies and individuals to consider contributing to relief efforts through the local Red Cross."

All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money. The Reno office of the American Red Cross can be contacted at (775)856-1000.

*Editors note:On Sept. 13, the U.S. Congress passed Resolution 225, which encourages Americans to display the flag"to remember those individuals who have been lost and to show the solidarity, resolve, and strength of the nation."