THE EMPIRE DISTRICT ELECTRIC COMPANY
602 Joplin Street
Joplin, Missouri 64801
August 19, 1999
Dear Stockholder:
According to our latest records, we have not yet received your proxy for the
important Special Meeting of The Empire District Electric Company on September
3, 1999, at which Your Board of Directors has unanimously recommended that
stockholders vote in favor of the proposed merger with UtiliCorp United Inc.
Remember, a failure to vote will have the same effect as a vote against the
merger. Therefore, your vote is important, no matter how many or how few shares
you may own. Please sign, date and return the enclosed proxy card today.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Very truly yours,
M. W. McKinney
President and Chief Executive Officer
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If you have any questions, or need assistance in the last-minute voting
of your shares, please call our proxy solicitor,
INNISFREE M&A INCORPORATED
TOLL-FREE, at 1-888-750-5834.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
If you hold your shares through a bank or broker,
you may be able to vote by telephone, or via the Internet.
Please call Innisfree at 888-750-5834 for assistance.
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