East Central Energy invites members to their 72^nd annual meeting April 19
Theme, "Leaving a greener footprint for tomorrow," emphasizes being ENERGYWISE®

BRAHAM, MN- East Central Energy (ECE) will hold its 72^nd annual membership meeting on Saturday, April 19 at Cambridge-Isanti High School, Cambridge, MN. ECE's commitment to energy conservation is reflected in this year's theme, "Leaving a greener footprint for tomorrow."

ECE invites members to bring their family for a great pancake breakfast, which starts at 7:30 a.m., a chance to visit with friends and pick up some helpful information about being ENERGYWISE. Child care will be available.

The Touchstone Energy hot air balloon will be a special feature at this year's event. Rides for ECE members and family will be available in the tethered balloon from 7:30-9:30 a.m. only, weather permitting. Other highlights of the day include:

• Informational exhibits that can help members reduce their energy use, save money on their electric bill and improve the environment at the same time.

• Information on how to participate in programs that make a difference in the community. ECE's Caring Members® program is the special focus this year. ECE matches member donations, and the money is distributed by area community action agencies to members who are struggling to pay their electric bill during difficult times. In 2007, the program contributed $8,100 to help 24 ECE member families.

• McGruff, the crime dog®, will be on hand to help distribute child ID kits.

• Members can enjoy a game of bingo for a chance to win a prize.

The business meeting begins at 9:30 a.m. ECE Board of Directors Chair Joe Morley will welcome members to the meeting. The cooperative's activities in 2007 and its plans for the future will be discussed by Garry Bye, ECE president and CEO. He will introduce Great River Energy President and CEO David Saggau, guest speaker for the event. Also during the business meeting, the results of the election for the director positions in districts 3 and 6 will be announced.

"ECE has focused for many years on conservation, alternative energy and the benefits of using energy wisely," Bye said. "We are fortunate to have Great River Energy as our innovative partner in that mission, an alliance that will be key as we move into a time of change and opportunity in our industry. I encourage our members to attend the annual meeting and hear David Saggau's message. The meeting is a great place to get better acquainted with the cooperative and the people who work hard to deliver great service and reliable electricity."

For more information, call 1-800-254-7944 or visit ECE online at eastcentralenergy.com.

East Central Energy www.eastcentralenergy.com is a member-owned electric cooperative that serves more than 57,000 homes, farms and businesses in east central Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. ECE provides electricity, Internet and long distance services, as well as community and business development and environmental services.