The Regional Report – August 2023

Portage Lakefront Park & Riverfront at dusk.

A #BirdthePreserves feature from the Forest Preserves of Cook County Twitter.

The Sand Ridge Nature Center has continued its birding initiative this summer with regular hikes and trainings for aspiring birders. As part of the Center’s #BirdthePreserves initiative launched in 2016, these events have provided attendees with the chance to learn the basics of birding from naturalists while also acquainting themselves with Cook County’s resident and migratory birds. Visit the Forest Preserves of Cook County’s website or Facebook page to learn more and add an upcoming birding event to your calendar. 

The Gibson Woods Nature Preserve has taken a reptilian route with its programming this summer, hosting a “snake hunt” observational hike. The toasty weather has provided prime conditions for attendees’ scouting. Interested in glimpsing Indiana’s snake varieties for yourself? Register for one of the upcoming hikes on August 8th.

In spite of the poor air quality and severe thunderstorms the region has seen this summer, several organizations have maximized the warm weather with outdoor concerts and gatherings. The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park held a Juneteenth celebration with music and spoken word performances. The Friendship Botanic Gardenshosted the La Porte County Symphony Orchestra for “Music Under the Stars.” The Indiana Dunes National Park has welcomed visitors to roast marshmallows on the Portage Lakefront Park & Riverwalk through its “Sunset Around the Fire at the Pavilion” series.
 
In spite of the poor air quality and severe thunderstorms the region has seen this summer, several organizations have maximized the warm weather with outdoor concerts and gatherings. The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park held a Juneteenth celebration with music and spoken word performances. The Friendship Botanic Gardenshosted the La Porte County Symphony Orchestra for “Music Under the Stars.” The Indiana Dunes National Park has welcomed visitors to roast marshmallows on the Portage Lakefront Park & Riverwalk through its “Sunset Around the Fire at the Pavilion” series.