Palatine Jaycees deserve our thanks

I would like to thank the Palatine Jaycees for giving the Village of Palatine the Hometown Fest again this year. I do not know many people attended the Palatine Hometown Fest this year, nor do I know how many people realize the number of volunteer hours that made it such a great event.

The entire festival is organized and produced by the Palatine Jaycees. There is no cost to the village residents because of the time and effort of the volunteers belonging to the Jaycees organization in Palatine. While other areas were charging to enter their parks to watch the fireworks, Palatine residents were treated to a fantastic display, free of charge.

We have lived in Palatine for more than 55 years and each year the Fourth of July parade and events in Community Park have increased in size. When we moved here, the town was a small suburb. We would go to the park shortly before dark, and there we would enjoy the fireworks. Now families arrive before 7 a.m. on that day to put their blankets, etc. down to reserve a special spot to enjoy the night's fireworks display.

If you know any member of the Jaycee organization, please thank them for a fantastic celebration of the birth of our nation. If you are interested in becoming a member and meeting some wonderful residents, I know they would welcome you. Being the parents of members, I know how much they have enjoyed friendships and volunteering for many years.

Carol Pfister

Palatine