Lake Forest Preservation Foundation outlines 50th‑anniversary program and plans to promote preservation

The Lake Forest Preservation Foundation presented a 50th‑anniversary video and a lineup of events to the Lake Forest City Council on June 1, framing the organization's work as central to preserving the community's historic visual character.

"My name is Jennifer McGregor. I'm here with Henry Kleman," said Jennifer McGregor, executive director of the foundation, introducing the foundation's leadership and programming. Henry Kleman, the foundation's president, described the foundation's history and mission, saying the group has about 500 members and highlighting past projects such as restoration of the east train station interior, restoration of train station wagons, historic plaques and contributions to parks and neighborhood features.

McGregor and Kleman previewed a three-part video series about Lake Forest that will be shown at the history center, and listed upcoming events: a vintage-themed gala on June 26 at the restored Bank Lane block, an August 20 exhibit at the history center where the video series will premiere, and a preservation symposium the weekend of October 16 at Ragdale and Lake Forest College that will bring local, regional and national preservation leaders to the city.

The presenters emphasized collaboration with residents, elected officials and city staff, and thanked the council and staff for past cooperation. The foundation asked the community to participate in anniversary programming and noted the Build Act as a larger preservation-related policy topic the foundation is monitoring.

Council took no formal action on the presentation; the segment was informational and celebratory.