Hi --my name is Willie Wiredhand and this is my story…..

I am happy and proud to be able to help NLI celebrate 70 years of excellent service to our NLI members.

I was created on October 30, 1950 by U.S. Defense Dept. artist Drew Mclay. I have had some challenges through the years. In the mid 1950's I received news that Reddy Kilowatt, the investor owned mascot, was suing me for looking too much like him. But, thankfully the U.S. Court of Appeals said that there was room for more than one of us to represent the electric industry-so here I am.

I hung in there, since 1950 at NLI’s Sandpoint headquarters, but as the years passed, the signs of aging took its toll and I lost my light and began to crack. And, that is why I'm so thankful to the dedicated employees, staff, and board of NLI who rescued me and lit up my life once again.

Thanks to the devoted efforts, spearheaded by NLI employee Rich Morris, I am safe and warm in my new home. Stop by NLI headquarters at 421 Chevy St. in Sagle and see my new neon come to life! And be sure to see the plaque showing all my friends in my new home.

For over 50 years I have been the proud symbol for NLI of what rural electric cooperatives are all about---providing quality and reliable electric service to 14,000 members who live in some of the most rural and rugged territory in our country.

Watching the accomplishments of this Cooperative over the years makes me glow.

NLI is the first co-op west of the Mississippi -I know I will still be hanging around for another 50 years as NLI continues to grow and prosper. That's the power of local service.

So anytime you want to come flip my switch, I'm ready and Willie.  

Sincerely yours,  

Willie Wiredhand