Volume 1, Issue 7 - October, 2023

President's Letter

Dear Friends,

As the crisp breeze of October sweeps through our beloved city, with it comes a renewed sense of appreciation for the changing seasons. Fall is a season of transition and transformation, much like the beacon of our lighthouse guiding ships through ever-shifting waters.

In the coming weeks, the Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse will continue to work diligently to ensure the preservation and promotion of our cherished lighthouse. We are exploring new ways to engage with our community and share the fascinating history of this iconic structure. Stay tuned for updates on our initiatives and events.

I want to thank Alderman Gilbert Villegas, 36th Ward and Chairman of the Committee on Economic, Capital, and Technology Development, and his staff for meeting with us in their office on Thursday, September 7th, to share our mission for the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse and discuss how we can work together to fulfill our commitment to Preserving, Restoring and Celebrating this iconic structure.

Fall also reminds us of the importance of preparation. Just as mariners ready their vessels for the winter season, students and educators are gearing up for a season of learning and growth. We stand with them, offering our support and encouragement as they embark on this educational journey.

As we bask in the glow of autumn's beauty, let us remember our lighthouse's vital role in guiding those who depend on it. It is a reminder that even in the face of change, our community remains a source of strength, inspiration, and resilience.

Thank you for your continued support of our organization and the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. Together, we will ensure its light continues shining brightly for generations to come.

Wishing you all a wonderful October filled with warmth, reflection, and the season's joy.

Be Safe and Be Well!

Regards,

Kurt Lentsch

Chief Dreamer and President, Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse

Local Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution

Join FOCHL to Support Presentation Effort

Kurt Lentsch, Nikki Swafford, and Steve Clements.

Photo credit: Kara Marselle

On Saturday, September 23rd, board members Kurt Lentsch and Steve Clements ha an opportunity to engage with members of the Culper Ring Agent 355 Chapter, NSDAR (National Society

Daughters of the American Revolution). Kurt and Steve shared an informative

presentation titled Chicago Harbor Lighthouse: Past, Present, and Future with the

group.

The Culper Ring Agent 355 Chapter, NSDAR is a

group of women in Chicago focused on community service efforts supporting

historic preservation, education, and patriotism. In May of this year, Nichole (Nikki) Swafford, the then-incoming Regent of the group, reached out to FOCHL with an incredible offer of support.

FOCHL is delighted to learn that Nikki intends to make supporting the Lighthouse

preservation efforts the project of focus for her two-year term. Her support plan

includes fundraising and hands-on service. Saturday’s presentation was the kick-off for those efforts.

“We are proud to work with Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse on your mission to preserve, restore, and celebrate the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse,” said Nikki. “During 2023-2025, our chapter will support FOCHL through fundraising, grant writing, public awareness, and hands-on service. We look forward to working with you!”

Kurt Lentsch, FOCHL Chief Dreamer and President, concurred. “We appreciate your

generous offer of support. We admire the patriotic spirit, focus on preservation, and the can-do attitude of your organization. We couldn’t be more excited about the potential this relationship has to offer and look forward to your continued support.”

If you are part of an organization that has an interest in financially supporting our efforts to Preserve, Restore, and Celebrate the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, please reach out to Nick Naber (nicknaber@savethelighthouse.org), our treasurer and leader of our fundraising working group.

Your contribution will enable us to offset the start-up costs for the

Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse

and begin the work of preservation and restoration...

We are very grateful for your generosity.

The Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse is a 501c3 organization

so please make a tax-deductible gift to help us Save the Lighthouse!

www.SaveTheLighthouse.org

FOCHL is pleased to present the fifth edition of

Chicago Harbor Lighthouse – Past, Present and Future

Jackson Park Yacht Club on Friday, Nov. 3



Speakers:

Kurt Lentsch, Chief Dreamer, President, FCHL

Edward Torrez, AIA, NCARB, Preservation Architect

If you are part of a group of 25 or more interested in learning more about the history of our lighthouse and our efforts, please contact Steve Clements (steveclements@savethelighthouse.org) to discuss the possibility of scheduling a presentation for your group.

VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME AND TALENT

Photo credit: Barry Butler

We need your help, and we are asking you to volunteer and join us in our mission to save the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse and keep its legacy alive for generations to come. 

We are a passionate organization dedicated to preserving, restoring, and celebrating the historic Chicago Harbor Lighthouse for future generations. Our mission would not be possible without the help of dedicated volunteers who share our passion and commitment to this iconic landmark.

As a volunteer with Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, you will have the opportunity to gain valuable experience, meet new people, and make a meaningful impact in preserving a historic Chicago landmark that is cherished by our city.

If you are interested in donating your talents and joining our team, please visit our volunteer page at savethelighthouse.org/volunteer to learn more.

Currently, we are seeking talented and experienced part-time volunteers to assist us in the areas of fundraising (especially grant writing), construction, and community outreach to help us build and maintain our connections to local and national organizations.

41°53'22"N 87°35'26"W

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