BLOOMFIELD - Despite inclement weather, 425 people turn out for the fourth annual Southern Iowa Electric Cooperative Member Appreciation Day.

This year’s event was held at the Cooperative’s new headquarters building located one-hald mile east of Bloomfield on Highway 2.

Members and their families were treated to a pancake and sausage breakfast catered by the Rotary Club of Bloomfield. Those attending had the opportunity to tour the new facilities, which are still under construction, talk with their cooperatives directors and employees about any concerns they had and could join the Energy Star Change a Light, Change the World Campaign and receive a free CFL bulb for doing so.

Members also learned about a national grassroots campaign “Our Energy, Our Future” which engages consumer/mem­bers in a conversation with elected officials about how we meet climate change goals while keeping electricity reliable and affordable. Members were given the opportunity to complete a card allowing SIEC to lobby on their behalf to members of Congress regarding these questions:

What is your plan to make sure we’ll have the electricity we need in the future?

What are you doing to fully fund the research required to make emissions-free electric plants an affordable reality?

How much will balancing electricity needs and environmental goals increase my electric bill – and what will you do to keep electricity affordable?

Do you support The Railroad Competition and Service Improvement Act?