July 2021
Reminder - Neighborhood Improvement Grant Applications Due July 31
The City of Valparaiso is now accepting applications for its annual Neighborhood Improvement Grant program. Grants are available for qualified neighborhood-based projects, in increments up to $15,000 per neighborhood with a July 31 deadline to apply. Visit our website for more information on the grant guidelines and watch this 25-minute webinar for an overview of the program and how to submit a successful application.
Recognizing our 2021 City Government Academy Graduates
At the June 28 City Council meeting, we celebrated the graduation of our Spring 2021 City Government Academy class. Through this interactive 7-session program, participants learned the inner workings of more than 10 departments and toured areas including the water treatment plant and Police and Fire stations. Participants asked great questions about community-wide decision making, city finances, infrastructure priorities and community involvement. 25 participants graduated this spring and, to date, 75 residents have completed the program. Learn more about the program and sign up to participate next spring.
"Madame Butterfly" Receives Community Choice Recognition
To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Valparaiso Art Walk, the community was invited to vote for their favorite sculpture. "Madame Butterfly" by Mike Sohikian was name the Community Choice Sculpture among the 18 works currently on display. The Community Choice Sculpture will be recognized with a special sign and local gift for the artist. Learn more about the Art Walk and the sculptures that will be featured through Spring 2022.
Summer Concert Series July 15 - August 26
Come out and enjoy live music on Thursdays beginning July 15 through August 26 at Central Park Plaza. Discover a new favorite band or come back for a favorite as the Summer Concert Series features artists of all musical styles. Bring your own blanket and chairs to sit back and enjoy these free concerts in the park.
ValPAWraiso Dog Park Ribbon Cutting & Celebration July 30
Valpo Parks invites you to sit, stay, and play at the ValPAWraiso Dog Park Ribbon Cutting & Celebration on Friday, July 30 from 4:30 pm - 7 pm Join Valpo Parks for tail wagging activities for all to enjoy! This event is free and open to the public. Learn more about the ValPAWraiso Dog Park and membership.

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Celebrate National Night Out August 3
Valparaiso Police Department is participating in National Night Out, which is scheduled for August 3, 2021. National Night Out brings communities and police together in a positive way to create an exchange of ideas and develop partnerships. VPD invites community members and neighborhood groups to organize events and activities as part of the national celebration. To get involved and sign up your neighborhood, contact Captain Joe Hall at jhall@valpopd.com or 219-462-2135.
Neighborhood Watch
Forest Park neighbors are celebrating some fresh landscaping! This project was funded through a Neighborhood Improvement Grant.
Mayor Murphy joined neighbors at Hatch Lake for a neighborhood walk to discuss their improvement ideas for their neighborhood grant application.
Neighbors at the Villas of Vale Park hosted a block party to gather and reconnect using a block party mini grant.
Have a neighborhood story you want to share? Contact us to be featured next month!