Shelby Electric Cooperative (SEC) once again helped coordinate the 5th annual Touchstone Energy Hot Air Balloonfest at Lake Shelbyville held in conjunction with Shelbyville Scarecrow Daze. “By combining these two events, we bring people to Shelbyville that may not otherwise find a reason and it helps our local economy and area businesses,” said Scarecrow Daze Organizer Brenda Elder who represents the Greater Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce.
“Over the three days of Columbus Day weekend many of our local businesses report record sales and this can be attributed to people coming in from all over the state to enjoy the colorful balloons and the festive atmosphere of our small town festival” said Chamber President Tim Miller.
SEC, along with M.J.M. Electric Cooperative, Prairie Power, Inc., Illinois Rural Electric Cooperative, Jo-Carroll Energy and Rural Electric Convenience Cooperative Co., brought in the Touchstone Energy Hot Air Balloon Team to the Balloonfest. “We hold a cookout/glow during this event to help raise funds for local charities and families in need and this year we raised close to $4,000,” said Shelby Electric’s Kevin Bernson who helps coordinate the balloon festival.
