Board of Directors

Lori Melton

2026 President

Lori Melton serves as President of the Duluth Preservation Alliance and brings thoughtful leadership and a deep commitment to the organization’s mission. With a background in communications, she has a natural ability to connect with the community and advocate for the importance of preserving Duluth’s historic places. Lori and her husband, Ryan, live in a 1908 two-story home in Lakeside with their two children, Kai and Micah, where their dedication to preservation is evident in their own work—efforts that will be recognized at the 2026 Awards Ceremony. Her passion, insight, and collaborative spirit help guide the Alliance’s work and future.

Patrice Bradley

2026 Vice President

Patrice Bradley joined the Duluth Preservation Alliance Board in 2016 and plays a key role in communications and outreach. She leads efforts in promoting events, designing materials, and sharing the organization’s work with the community. As the owner of a Duluth-based marketing agency, Patrice brings creativity and strategic insight to the Board. Her passion for historic preservation is deeply rooted in her family’s ties to the area dating back to the late 1800s, and she proudly carries that legacy forward from her 1911 Arts & Crafts foursquare home.

Blake Romenesko

2026 Secretary

Blake Romenesko brings a deep passion for local history and storytelling to the Duluth Preservation Alliance Board. He founded and leads the Endangered Properties Committee, playing a key role in identifying and advocating for at-risk historic buildings throughout the city. Blake also owns one of the historic Alexander Miles rental homes on 4th Street, reflecting his personal commitment to preserving Duluth’s architectural legacy. Through his work and curiosity, he has a talent for uncovering and sharing the city’s lesser-known stories, making him a thoughtful and engaging voice on the Board.

Peter Lee

2026 Treasurer

Peter Lee serves as Treasurer of the Duluth Preservation Alliance and brings a thoughtful, steady presence to the Board. He is the dedicated steward of the historic Julius & Harriet Barnes House, a 1904 Spanish Colonial hacienda and one of Duluth’s more distinctive homes in the East End. Through his work to preserve and restore the property, Peter has honored its rich history with hands-on dedication and care.

A Duluth native, he grew up in the area and graduated from East High School. Peter lives with his wife, Kelly, and their daughter. His commitment to maintaining this remarkable home reflects a deep appreciation for Duluth’s architectural heritage and makes him a valued member of the Board.

Robert Berg

Board Member

Bob Berg has been involved with the Duluth Preservation Alliance since 1981 and brings decades of knowledge and passion to the Board. Known for his engaging and memorable tours, Bob leads both the East Hillside and Morgan Park walking tours, sharing Duluth’s history with enthusiasm and humor. His deep commitment to preserving the city’s historic properties, combined with his lively spirit, makes him an invaluable and much-loved member of the organization.

Sandy Burgstahler

Board Member

Sandy Burgstahler brings a deep appreciation for historic homes and thoughtful stewardship to the Duluth Preservation Alliance Board. She and her husband, Duane, live in the meticulously preserved 1913 Robert J. Whiteside Craftsman home in Chester Park, reflecting her commitment to maintaining Duluth’s architectural heritage. She joined the Duluth Preservation Alliance in 1980. Sandy has a keen eye for exceptional antiques and has traveled to Asheville, North Carolina to attend the National Arts & Crafts Conference and Shows. Her attention to detail and quiet dedication to preservation make her a valued member of the Board.

Jessica Glander

Board Member

Jessica Glander brings both professional expertise and hands-on experience to the Duluth Preservation Alliance Board. She has served as President of Duluth’s Heritage Preservation Commission and is a Regional Historic Preservation Specialist with the U.S. Forest Service. Her work has included preservation projects at sites such as Glensheen Mansion and Split Rock Lighthouse, and she holds a Master’s Degree in Historic Preservation. Jessica and her husband, Patrick, live in a two-story home built in 1899, reflecting her deep commitment to preserving Duluth’s historic places.

Sheryl Homan

Board Member

Sheryl Homan brings a wealth of experience and community dedication to the Duluth Preservation Alliance Board. A longtime Duluth real estate professional, she has spent years helping people find and care for homes throughout the region, developing a deep appreciation for the city’s historic neighborhoods. Sheryl lives in a beautifully restored 1907 yellow foursquare home in East Duluth, reflecting her passion for preservation in her own life. Her knowledge, steady approach, and genuine care for both people and place make her a valued and thoughtful member of the Board.

Mike Poupore

Board Member

Mike Poupore brings a deep understanding of historic preservation and adaptive reuse to the Duluth Preservation Alliance Board. A general contractor with an architectural background, he has been actively involved in Duluth’s preservation community, including service on the Heritage Preservation Commission. Mike led the transformation of the long-vacant Bell Building—originally built in 1921—into a vibrant multi-plex, earning recognition for his work in repurposing this historic structure. His hands-on approach, vision, and dedication to preserving Duluth’s built environment make him a valuable member of the Board.