Grayslake Heritage Center Announces Winners of 'Giving Trees' Contest

The Grayslake Chamber of Commerce and Industry won first place in the Grayslake Heritage Center and Museum's inaugural Grayslake Giving Trees contest.

More than 700 visitors saw the trees and cast 591 votes. The winners of the contest were announced Dec. 30, with the Grayslake Chamber receiving 101 votes. Second place went to Foundation 46, with 66 votes, while the American Cancer Society-Relay for Life took third place with 56 votes. 

“This was an exceptional display. All of our participants did a wonderful job, and visitors marveled at the creativity and showmanship," Dave Oberg, executive director of the museum, said in a press release about the contest. "This was a splendid way for community organizations to share their message as the year draws to its close. We appreciate all that they did to share their time and talent with the public.”

Sixteen local organizations participated in the four-week display, including: American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Grayslake and Round Lake Area; The Book Bridge; Carillon North; Community Youth Network; Foundation 46; Girl Scout Troop 40628; The Goddard School—Third Lake; Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Grayslake Exchange Club; Grayslake Farmers Market; Grayslake Historical Society; Grayslake Lions Club; Miss Mary’s Peppermint Stick Preschool; St. Gilbert Catholic School; University Center of Lake County; and Westlake Christian Academy.

People voted for their favorite trees with their dollars and the proceeds are being split among the participating groups and the Grayslake Historical Society.