A New Stage for Nature and Fun

A brand-new amphitheater has opened at Meadowbrook Nature Preserve in Liberty Township. This $600, 000 project is more than just a place for shows. It's a spot where people can enjoy nature and learn about it too. The amphitheater's opening was marked with poems, speeches, and music. Dale Nichols, a board member of Shirley Heinze Lane Trust, shared some of his poems. Stephanie Naumoff, the president of the Gary Shakespeare Company, sang "Misty, " the first song ever performed at this new venue. Nichols' poems included a tribute to Barker Woods. This place was once the home of the Shirley Heinze Land Trust. Now, Save the Dunes uses the Barker House in Michigan City as its headquarters. Barker Woods is now an old-growth forest. The trees were planted by the Barker family on land that was once a farm. The Shirley Heinze Land Trust has planted over 50, 000 trees. They have been buying properties to create nature preserves. Just recently, they hit the 4, 000-acre mark. The amphitheater is the last part of their master plan for Meadowbrook. It will host art, theater, music, retreats, and meetings. This year, there are plenty of events planned. There's a cosplay event with animals from Humane Indiana Wildlife, a performance by the South Shore Brass Band, and a firefly-watching event. There's also a poetry workshop and a health and harvest festival. The amphitheater is a place for schools and groups to learn outdoors. It's a haven for families and friends to connect with nature. The Meadowbrook site was once home to the Meadowbrook Girl Scout Camp. It started in 1963, replacing a previous site. Barbara Crumpacker and Briana Petty, both Girl Scouts from different generations, attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Crumpacker's mother was one of the first Scout leaders at the camp. Petty's mother was also a troop leader. Both women have fond memories of the place. The amphitheater stands where a old cabin used to be. Some of the original Girl Scout buildings are still there. The site has a rich history and a bright future. It's a place where people can enjoy nature, learn, and make memories. The amphitheater is a reminder to protect and preserve the natural world. It's a place for future generations to enjoy. The opening of the amphitheater is a big deal for the community. It's a place where people can come together to enjoy nature and learn about it.