Press Release: August 7, 2008
Contact:  Henry Shelton (401) 728-5555

Pawtucket, R.I. — A disabled couple (ages 57 and 54) burn candles to see in the evening. The husband is a man with severe heart disease and cancer. His wife, who is now running out of money for buying candles, called Henry Shelton this morning and asked that he say to the PUC, “please let my husband die in dignity” and restore our electricity.

George Wiley Center community organizers and advocates have questions for the PUC at the Open Meeting, 10 A.M. today:

• The couple, with church’s help, paid $850 toward their back bill.

• Utility Shut-off their service on 10:15 am Monday, August 4th. Now, 72 hours later, 10:00am August 7th, this disabled couple is still without electricity.

• They lost $262 worth of food has spoiled since Monday. Who will pay?

• How many Rhode Islanders have been shut-off so far through July 31st?

• How many of those are still off, like the Ryans??

• What medical doctor did Tom Ahern, Administrator, Division of Public Utilities, consult with, in order to give permission to National Grid to shut-off the Ryans?

• What doctor did Michael Ryan, President, National Grid, consult in order to shut off the Ryans?

• What is the cost of air conditioning for National Grid office in July?

• Are any Large Corporation behind on their bills? Any shut-offs among these businesses?

For more information, contact Henry Shelton, George Wiley Center 32 East Avenue, Pawtucket, RI 02860. Telephone: 401-728-5555