Elkhart City’s Park Board made significant strides in enhancing community engagement and entertainment during their recent meeting on May 20, 2025. The board approved a series of entertainment contracts for the upcoming Rhapsody Arts and Music Festival, set to take place this summer, which promises a diverse lineup of local talent and engaging activities for residents.

Among the highlights, the board approved contracts for several acts, including Sugar Lime Blue, a blues band, and the Fairly Old Guys, a local bluegrass group. The festival will also feature a variety of genres, with performances from an eighties hair cover band and a magician, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere. The inclusion of local artists aims to foster community spirit and support regional talent.

In addition to entertainment, the board discussed financial matters, approving claims totaling $128,966.42 and acknowledging $11,000 in donations from local businesses. Notably, Cappy's contributed $1,000 for the Western Park improvement celebration, while the Elkhart Parks Foundation provided $5,000 to support a scholarship program for summer camps.

The meeting also introduced a new initiative for guitar lessons by local instructor Stephen King, aimed at providing personalized instruction for community members. This program will be held at High Dive, allowing residents to enhance their musical skills in a supportive environment.

The board's commitment to improving local parks was evident as they approved a contract for the conceptual design of Olry Park, signaling future enhancements to community spaces.

Overall, the decisions made during this meeting reflect a proactive approach to enriching Elkhart City’s cultural landscape and providing valuable resources for residents. The upcoming events and programs are expected to foster community engagement and celebrate local talent, setting a positive tone for the summer ahead.