The Valparaiso Parks Department Friends & Legends 2024 event occurred on October 3 at the Butterfield Pavilion.
Award recipients included Matt Vessely, who received the Legendary Friend Award, Byron Smith III, who was posthumously awarded the Community Champion Award, and Nancy Bender, who received the Art & Irene Malasto Legends Award.
This event allows the Valpo Parks Foundation and the community to express gratitude to individuals who have significantly supported the Valpo Parks system.
Vessely, the Regional President of 1st Source Bank, expressed his honor in receiving such a prestigious award, noting that the recognition reflects positively on his peers and the community.
"I’m certainly humbled to stand up there among so many legendary people, not just tonight, but over the years," said Vessely. "It’s quite rewarding to know that the things I’ve done, and that my company has supported, are deserving of this kind of recognition."
Tim VerSchure, president of the Valpo Parks Foundation board of directors, discussed the significance of the event and his insights about its impact on the community. He emphasized how it brings people together to celebrate the contributions of those who support the parks and enhance the quality of life in Valparaiso.
“One of the things that makes the Valpo Parks Department, in collaboration with the foundation and the city, stand out is our ability to form strong partnerships between public and private funds,” said VerSchure. “Take a project like the skate park across the fairgrounds—it was already a great initiative, but with these partnerships, we made it something truly impressive. Bringing together the community and the city’s public responsibility elevates what we have here. It benefits our people, our kids, improves property values, and makes Valparaiso a place people want to live.”
There have been many different events throughout the year that have showcased their highlights. This year, they recognized Bender, a LIFE Member of the LPGA who teaches golf lessons, and the late Smith III, who was an exceptional baseball umpire.
“Our foundation has three different award recipients tonight,” said VerSchure. “Our Legendary Friend Award, the Art and Irene Malasto Legends Award, and our Community Champion Award. Every year, we try to recognize someone who has made significant contributions, and this year we have three incredible community supporters who have given their time, talent, and treasure over multiple decades. It’s a wonderful way for us to come together, celebrate their achievements, and truly give thanks for all they’ve done for our community.”
The foundation continues to enhance and sustain the highest quality park facilities and programs. Their efforts ensure that the community has access to exceptional recreational spaces and activities.
“Valparaiso is an amazing place, and the things that organizations like the parks do to uplift our community—that’s your output,” said Vessely. “The product we have here, and the quality of life that has improved over time because of the work of so many legendary people, is what it’s all about.”
VerSchure expressed his happiness for the winners and shared his gratitude for hosting an event like this every year. He emphasized how it allows them to showcase the amazing projects the Valpo Parks Foundation and the community accomplish together.
“Congratulations to our award winners,” said VeSchure. “They’re great examples for others in our community, especially younger folks looking to get involved. We always have events and projects going on, so we encourage anyone in Valparaiso and the surrounding communities to visit a park, attend an event, or find a way to volunteer.”
For more information please visit valpoparksfoundation.org.
