Thanks from NPPD

Dear Editor,

It has been a month since Central Nebraska was introduced to the New Year by one of the worst -- if not the worst -- ice storms in public power's history.

Amid the thousands of broken power poles and crumbled, steel towers were countless examples of customers exhibiting astonishing patience and understanding.

The loss of electricity creates many hardships for people and businesses, yet throughout the cold days and nights that challenged Nebraskans living in communities, homes, and farms in Central Nebraska, we heard and saw expressions of appreciation for the significant effort the electric utilities made to get power restored as quickly as possible.

The outpouring of kindness and consideration for public power and those entities that came to our aid from other parts of Nebraska and from other states was as unique as the individuals, businesses, and communities who offered such support. Customers watched out for one another, donated food and drink to utility crews, helped conserve energy, and cooperated with their local utilities in their restoration efforts. This truly was public power at its best.

The pictures we place in our files for historical reference about this storm will inevitably depict the structural damage to Nebraska's electrical system. Yet, it will be the accounts of our customers' genuine concern, caring, and contributions during the emergency restoration efforts that tell the true story of what we experienced together.

On behalf of the Nebraska Public Power District, our public power partners, those who provided mutual aid in restoring electricity, and to you -- our customers for your patience and understanding, we say -- THANK YOU. You are the reason why public power works in this state.

Ron Asche

Nebraska Public Power District

President & CEO