Palatine Jaycees named best in state

The Palatine chapter of the Jaycees has been named the best Jaycee chapter in the state for 2016.

As the best chapter in Illinois, the Palatine Chapter was presented with the Giessenbier, an award based on chapter programming, growth and overall performance.

Palatine Jaycees were also the overall winners in the areas of Economic/Business and Membership for 2016.

The Palatine Jaycees also received a number of individual state recognition awards: Outstanding State President, Pat De Marco; Outstanding Membership Vice President, Barbara Cima; Outstanding Local Director, Margie Musary; Outstanding Treasurer, Audrey Doty; and Rookie of the Year for the State, Emily Sanscrainte.

The Palatine chapter also received project awards for the Best Long-Term Community Development Project, Hometown Fest, and was runner-up for the Top Local Community Empowerment Project, Fit Family Field Day.

"We are honored by the recognition we have received from our peers," said Pat De Marco, 2016 Palatine Jaycee President.

"We are always proud to be supportive members of our community. These awards are wonderful because they recognize the work we do for the community and the quality of people we have in our chapter."

The Palatine Jaycees conduct numerous programs to serve the community and fund the chapter and community donations, including Hometown Fest (Fourth of July Festival), Christmas tree sales and Best Pizza contest.

It is one of the nearly 60 local chapters in Illinois and has nearly 120 members, making it one of the largest chapters in the state. The Jaycees provide individuals between ages 21 and 40 the opportunity to develop personal and leadership skills while serving their community.

Meetings are the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the American Legion Hall. For information, visit www.palatinejaycees.org, email info@palatinejaycees.org, or call (847) 604-0288.