The La Porte Civic Auditorium stage has a new name after the generous support by a local family, according to La Porte Park Superintendent Mark Schreiber.

At the recent Holiday at the Pops concert, the La Porte City Park Foundation announced the creation of the Bowers Family Fund, established to support the Civic Auditorium for generations to come. Edwin and Karen Bowers made a lead gift of $500,000, with additional contributions pledged for the future.

In recognition of their support, the Civic stage now carries their name: The Bowers Family Stage. Schreiber said a contribution like this one has the potential to transform the future of the building.

“Ed and Karen’s passion for the community has resulted in a fund to keep the Civic viable into the future,” Schreiber said in a press release. “The Fox family gifted this valued amenity to the City nearly 100 years ago, and now the Bowers Family Fund will help ensure it remains a treasured asset for another century.”

The Bowers Family Fund will provide long-term support for operations and maintenance, upkeep and repairs and facility improvements. A three-person advisory committee, appointed by the Park Foundation Board, will recommend how funds are used.

Schreiber said the Bowers family hopes others will contribute to the fund to help keep the Civic viable for future generations. The Foundation will launch a formal campaign for the Fund in 2026.