Three days after intense heat, tornado warnings, and damaging winds rocked the region, perfect weather graced the inaugural Jazz in the Preserves outdoor concert fundraiser held by the Forest Preserve Foundation on July 18th. Over one hundred concertgoers relaxed on blankets, lawn chairs and picnic tables at Thatcher Woods Pavilion while jazz notes melded with birdsong and the sun set behind the trees. From folks treating themselves to a lovely solo evening, to romantic date duos or BFF pairs, to larger groups, people from near and far enjoyed this idyllic evening while supporting the Preserves they love.
“Any chance to enjoy a summer evening in a forest preserve is time well spent - add music to that and it's a perfect way to unwind after work. I really enjoyed it! ” - Cheryl Wisniewski, organizer of Porchfest outdoor music gatherings in Oak Park
"Especially loved Lady Sax—wow so fun, and a total pro. Her energy was infectious!" - Michelle Major
Michelle Major also loved having an event like this at Thatcher Woods, her nearby forest preserve. "The venue was great—huge potential to grow in the coming years. The way the setting sun lit up the performers (and kept the sun at the backs of the audience) was so perfect. We brought our food and drink but next time I’ll take advantage of the food trucks. I appreciated that our entry fee included a couple free beverages too. Kudos to the organizers of this event—I hope it’s the start of a new tradition!"
Three food vendors were on site: Top Butcher on the grill, Da Pizza Food Truck, and Brown Cow ice Cream Parlor. All were crowd pleasers,
To keep drinks cold while showing love for nature and supporting the Preserves copper vacuum insulated beverage tumblers were available for purchase.
Thanks to Indigo Sports for donating and serving complimentary beer, spritzers & soft drinks and Olé & Obrigado for donating wine.
"The music for the program was a good choice, perfect for the evening. Lady Sax was engaging, playing familiar songs in a fun soul jazz style. Mario Dueñas would be at home in a cool jazz supper club; excellent musicianship. Very nice inaurgural event."
- Eric Forte, unofficial Mr. Music on his block.
Leadership team members from the Forest Preserves of Cook County showed their support, connecting with each other and the Foundation. Oak Park Village President Vicki Scaman and River Forest Village President Catherine Adduci were also in attendance.
"It was a perfect night with friends surrounded by the natural beauty of the Forest Preserve with talented musicians, tasteful ambience, and refreshments. The music was perfect for the setting, allowing visitors to enjoy community and nature at one beautiful event. Really highlighted the beauty of the natural surroundings."
- Oak Park Village President Vicki Scaman
Interim General Superintendent of the Forest Preserves of Cook County Eileen Figel read the land aknowledgement and spoke a bit about the Forest Preserves. Forest Preserve Board Vice Chair and event Chair LeeAnn Tomas-Foster welcomed everyone and thanked our sponsors, Troon, Indigo Sports, Olé & Obrigado, Stantec, and Arcadis. Forest Preserve Foundation President and Executive Director Debra Walker Johnson shared a bit about the Foundation and thanked attendees for their support.
Gratitude to the host committee members LeeAnn Tomas-Foster, Theresa Salus, and Peter Volpe and to the Arcadis volunteer crew!
![$15K IndigoSports-ATC_PMS[52]](https://forestpreservefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15K-IndigoSports-ATC_PMS52.jpg "$15K IndigoSports-ATC_PMS[52]")
People who brought children appreciated the adjacent open space where kids could run, kick a ball, do somersaults and cartwheels to keep their active bodies moving while the adults relaxed into the groove of the music. One such parent Virginia Bloom said, "It was really nice he could run around while I listened. And we talked a lot about what instruments we liked and how the music made us feel - like the emotions that go with the music.
Both adults and kids raved about the mojito lime & mint sorbet made from mint out of Connie Brown's garden.
Thank you!
The Foundation looks forward to seeing everyone again next year!
Save the Date! Thursday, July 24, 2025
Your support is appreciated. The Forest Preserve Foundation supports projects at the Forest Preserves of Cook County that restore vital public lands, engage in climate resiliency measures, eliminate barriers to equitable access, nourish cultural engagement and nurture the next generation of environmental advocates.
Enjoy the photo gallery below.
