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Welcome to The Region Porch
Where Stories Sit Down and Stay Awhile!

Why Stay Awhile? Because this porch was built for you.

In a world moving too fast, The Region Porch slows down to listen.

We believe the most powerful stories aren’t shouted from rooftops — they’re shared over coffee, under porch lights, between neighbors.

This is where the real Northwestern Indiana lives: in lived experience, in hard-earned wisdom, in the voices too often overlooked.

Here, we don’t just cover what’s happening — we care about why it matters.

Whether it’s a small-town hero, a family-run diner, a youth with big dreams, or a tradition passed down for generations… every story here is a thread in the larger fabric of our region.

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August 17.2025

2 Minutes Read

Old National Events Plaza Operator's Contract Loss: What It Means for Indiana Workers

Exterior of Old National Events Plaza with sale sign.

Impact of Contract Loss: A Community in Disarray

The decision by the operator of the Old National Events Plaza to conclude its contract has sent shockwaves throughout northwestern Indiana. With approximately 250 employees affected, this change sheds light on the economic fabric of the region and the potential repercussions for local families and businesses. The arena has been a cornerstone of local events, housing concerts, exhibitions, and community gatherings that define the social landscape of the area.

By the Numbers: Economic Implications for Employees

For the nearly 250 workers whose jobs are on the line, the challenges are multifaceted. The loss of employment not only affects their immediate livelihoods but also ripples through the local economy. These workers are consumers; their spending supports shops, restaurants, and local services in the community. In turn, their potential absence in the workforce could lead to a notable decrease in economic activity in the area.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Old National Events Plaza

The transition raises several questions about what lies ahead for the Old National Events Plaza and the local community. Will a new operator emerge to take over and revitalize the venue? Future predictions suggest that public and private entities may need to step up, seeking innovative solutions to ensure the sustainability of such key community infrastructure.

Broader Context: Employment Trends in Indiana

This contract loss parallels employment trends we are witnessing across Indiana and the Midwest. As industries shift and adapt, providing support and retraining for displaced workers becomes crucial. The resilience of the local workforce will be tested, and it will take collective efforts from both businesses and the community to foster recovery.

Conclusion: A Call for Support in the Community

As the dust settles from this unexpected contract conclusion, it becomes imperative for community members to rally together. Supporting local businesses and workers will not only provide immediate relief but again highlight the interconnectedness of life in the region. Now is the time to champion policies that support transitions and sustainable jobs. The survival of the local economy may depend on it.

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Meta's 15-Building Data Center Project: What It Means for Indiana's Business Landscape

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Old National Events Plaza Operator's Contract Loss: What It Means for Indiana Workers

Impact of Contract Loss: A Community in Disarray

By the Numbers: Economic Implications for Employees

Looking Ahead: The Future of Old National Events Plaza

Broader Context: Employment Trends in Indiana

Conclusion: A Call for Support in the Community

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