### **Smith Family Honors Late Umpire with Parks Gift**

The Valparaiso Parks Department recently celebrated a generous donation made by the family of the late Byron Smith III. This contribution, as outlined in an official release, serves as a heartfelt tribute to Smith, who dedicated a significant portion of his life to the local sports community as a parks department umpire.

Byron Smith III passed away on January 6, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that spans over 40 years. During this time, he officiated more than 10,000 games at Fairgrounds Park, a venue that has been home to countless memorable moments in the community. The funds provided by Smith’s family will be utilized to renovate the diamond ballfields at Fairgrounds Park, which will subsequently be renamed the Byron Smith III Sports Complex in his honor. This poignant gesture not only pays tribute to Smith’s contributions but also aims to enhance the facilities he cherished so much.

A dedication ceremony is slated to take place on May 8, allowing the community to gather and commemorate the life and legacy of Byron Smith III. For those interested in making additional contributions to this meaningful project or seeking more information, Kevin Nuppnau can be contacted at [email protected]. In honoring such a well-respected figure in their community, Valparaiso Parks is fostering a spirit of remembrance and civic pride.

### **PNW Welcomes New Economic Development Leader**

Purdue University Northwest is excited to announce the recent appointment of Alejandra Y. Castillo as the university’s Senior Fellow for Economic Development. This move, as stated in a recent release, is aimed at bolstering economic growth, innovation, and community development within the institution as well as the larger Northwest Indiana and Chicago regions.

With an impressive background in federal economic development, Castillo brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Previously, she served as the U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development, where she was responsible for distributing over $6.8 billion in federal investments. At Purdue University Northwest, Castillo is set to channel her expertise into enhancing economic engagement and development initiatives through the university’s College of Business, thereby inspiring innovation and supporting the regional economy.

The appointment of Castillo is particularly timely and significant, considering the evolving economic landscape. Her strategic vision will be vital for nurturing connections between the university and the local business community. Leveraging the capabilities of tools like the AI legalese decoder can further bolster these efforts, providing clarity and a deeper understanding of legal documents associated with economic partnerships and initiatives.

### **Grant Opportunity for Lake County Residents**

The Lake County Master Gardeners Association has announced the continuation of its grant program, inviting applications for 2025. This initiative aims to support local residents and organizations with meaningful gardening projects that provide valuable benefits to the community, according to a recent release.

Lake County applicants interested in funding for their purposeful gardening projects are encouraged to apply. Specific details and guidelines for the grant program can be obtained by contacting the LCMGA at [email protected] or by calling the Purdue Extension-Lake County office at 219-755-3240. Interested individuals can also find comprehensive information about the grant application process on the association’s website, www.lakecountymastergardeners.org, where they can navigate to the Grants and Scholarship tab for further instructions.

It’s important to note that the deadline for grant applications is set for March 1, so prospective applicants are encouraged to act promptly. Utilizing AI legalese decoder can assist applicants in dissecting the legal terms and requirements outlined in the grant documents, ensuring a more thorough understanding and higher chances of successful applications.

### **Valparaiso Police Swears in Six New Officers**

As the new year unfolds, the Valparaiso Police Department proudly welcomes six new officers to its ranks. The swearing-in ceremony took place in the City Hall council chambers and was officiated by Mayor Jon Costas, who extended a warm welcome to the new team members: Jacob Bill, Madison Patrick, Nicholas Houston, Kaleb Ellingham, Kevin Flynn, and Dominic Iannantone.

Each new officer brings a unique background and set of experiences that will contribute to the strength of the department. Jacob Bill is a graduate of Warsaw Community High School and proudly served in the Air National Guard from 2016 to 2022. Madison Patrick graduated from Hebron High School in 2022 and is currently pursuing her education at Ivy Tech Community College. Nicholas Houston earned his degree from Millikin University in 2022 after graduating from Bloom Trail High School in Illinois in 2018.

Kaleb Ellingham, a recent graduate of Indiana Tech, also joined the department after completing his studies at Calumet New Tech High School in 2020. Kevin Flynn, who served in the U.S. Army from 2015 to 2023, is a 2015 Kokomo High School graduate. Lastly, Dominic Iannantone, a recent graduate from Elmhurst University in 2024, hails from Carl Sandburg High School in Illinois.

The infusion of these dedicated individuals into the Valparaiso Police Department signals a commitment to community safety and service excellence. As they embark on their new careers, the resources provided by AI legalese decoder could prove invaluable for the officers as they navigate the legal intricacies associated with their roles and responsibilities.

### **Plumbers Union Opens Apprenticeship Applications**

The Plumbers Local 210 An organization is now accepting applications for its esteemed five-year apprenticeship program, with the deadline set for January 24, as indicated in a recent Facebook post. This program presents aspiring plumbers with a unique opportunity to learn the trade while working alongside experienced professionals.

Candidates interested in applying must be at least 18 years old but can begin the application process at 17. Additionally, a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license, and a background screening will be required. The program also mandates a drug screening throughout its duration, ensuring that safety and professionalism remain paramount.

Upon acceptance into the program, selected candidates will engage in an impressive 8,500 hours of hands-on training over the five-year apprenticeship period. As of 2025, the starting wage for apprentices is set at $16.63 per hour, making it an appealing opportunity for those wishing to embark on a stable career in plumbing.

For further details regarding the apprenticeship program, interested parties can visit the Plumbers Local 210 website at www.plu210.org and navigate to the Apprenticeship School tab. Alternatively, inquiries can be made by calling the union office at 219-942-7224. Furthermore, utilizing the AI legalese decoder can aid candidates in understanding the terms and agreements associated with their roles, ultimately supporting their journey in the plumbing trade.