One question can yield a variety of answers. When prompted to fill in the rest of the statement, “I remember Lake Forest when…” via a Facebook message or email, both recent and long ago alumni responded with answers that covered a variety of topics and events. Since its beginning, the Lake Forest/ Lake Bluff area has seen a plethora of changes. Whether it be building a new restaurant, adding a storefront to Western Ave. in Market Square, or renovations to the high school, change is inevitable. In this new weekly segment, former residents and students of Lake Forest High School and the Lake Forest/Lake Bluff area share their memories about Lake Forest during the time they called it home. 

“I remember Lake Forest when I worked on stage or lighting crew for most of the shows during my 4 years at LFHS – and the cast parties when done. Best story was when we did Brigadoon and someone put the fog machine in Mr Criche’s VW bug and turned it on. Needless to say he was late to the party and very mad.”  Jeanne Sposito (’70)

“I remember Lake Forest when, living in Lake Bluff, we would get on the train and go to LF. We’d make the Rounds: going to Left Bank, a cookie at Market Square Pastries, or 31 Flavors. We’d stop and shop at the Bootery, pop into Walgreens, up the street to Woolworth’s. The movie theater was fun. Just walking around the Square we’d run into friends, then hop on the train and head home… In the fall, football games were a must. Go Scouts!???????” Sally McLaughlin (’71)

“I remember Lake Forest when Rifle Club met Tuesday nights in the basement of the Gymnastics Gym! 22 cal. mostly, but some .38s and such.” Bob Craig (’72)

“I remember going to Woolworth’s after school for french fries. During the summer leaving the house on my bike and not coming back for hours. We would play in the ravines and ride everywhere–ice skating all the time at West Park. I remember the auto scavenger hunt in high school.” Holly Griffis McDonald (’74)

“I remember Lake Forest when you could get on your bike or your skateboard and be gone all day without a cell phone or any way for your parents to check up on you. All the time knowing that you better be home by 5:30 for dinner.”  –Ray Sorenson