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Valpo Parks Foundation to Honor Community Leaders at 2024 Friends & Legends Reception

Valpo Parks Foundation to Honor Community Leaders at 2024 Friends & Legends Reception

The Valpo Parks Foundation is excited to announce the 2024 Friends & Legends reception, a celebration honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to Valpo Parks. The event will take place on Thursday, October 3, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Butterfield Family Pavilion at Fairgrounds Park. 

This year’s honorees include: 

  • Art & Irene Malasto Legends Award: Nancy Bender 
  • Legendary Friend Award: Matt Vessely 
  • Community Champion Award: Byron Smith III 

The Friends & Legends reception will feature complimentary hors d'oeuvres, soda, and water, with a cash bar service also available. Admission to the event is free and open to the public. Donations to the Valpo Parks Foundation are gratefully accepted. 

The Valpo Parks Foundation would like to extend its sincere gratitude to the following event sponsors for their generous support: 

  • SILVER: Indiana Beverage 
  • IN-KIND: Madewell Media; Adams Radio Group; Spare Room Studios; Aberdeen Manor; Coastal Valley Water Co. 

“We are thrilled to recognize the outstanding contributions of Nancy Bender, Matt Vessely, and Byron Smith III,” said Kevin Nuppnau, Director of Valpo Parks and Executive Director of the Valpo Parks Foundation. “Their dedication and passion have made a lasting impact on Valparaiso through our parks system, and we are honored to celebrate their achievements.” 

Reservation tickets will soon be available at www.ValpoParksFoundation.org. For more information about the Valpo Parks Foundation or the 2024 Friends & Legends reception, please visit the website or contact Tracy Betustak at 219-462-5144. 

About the Valpo Parks Foundation 

The Valpo Parks are reflective of the community's vibrancy and are a visible symbol of the quality of life in Valparaiso. The Valpo Parks Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, exists to support the Valpo Parks Department. The Foundation often serves as a catalyst to bring projects to fruition, capturing the spirit and character of residents working side by-side to make our community even stronger.