Portage Celebrates Nation’s 250th Birthday with Grand Parade

Approximately 10,000 individuals gathered on Saturday to celebrate the United States’ 250th birthday with a grand parade in Portage. Mayor Austin Bonta highlighted the city’s patriotism, noting that people traveled from as far as Whiting to join the festivities.

Participants in the parade included Mila Rayber, 2, perched atop her father Travis’ shoulders, representing Indiana Elite Gymnastics. Mayor Bonta emphasized the importance of honoring national principles, mentioning rights granted by divine authority, not the government. His family’s immigration history from Poland and Italy underscored the country’s openness.

Angelica Harnisch attended proudly, as her father achieved U.S. citizenship 18 years after emigrating from Michoacán, Mexico. Her husband, Karl Harnisch, celebrated the semiquincentennial, noting the occasion as one of the largest Fourth of July celebrations.

Janice Newcomb, recalling the bicentennial, observed how Portage has evolved over the decades. She and her husband, Don, enjoyed the day’s events, planning a family barbecue followed by fireworks.

Joni Maxwell, riding on the Samuelson Insurance float with her son, the parade’s grand marshal, expressed her honor in celebrating both the nation’s and her agency’s milestones. John Keyl, a veteran from the Gulf War, represented the American Legion Post 26, expressing enthusiasm for the celebration.

Community members like Joe Gzromek engaged with spectators by distributing candy, relishing in the joy of giving back to the community. Tim Huckabay demonstrated creativity, maneuvering a tiny car controlled by a remote, driven by a Chihuahua.

Mike Pollak paraded with two Great Danes, enjoying the lively atmosphere. Meanwhile, Kate Scholobohm promoted Hagrid’s Hope, a cat rescue organization, accentuating community spirit through the distribution of treats.

Derek Bood, dressed as Uncle Sam, recognized the historical significance of the day, celebrating with fellow attendees. David Barcelli echoed Bood’s sentiments, reflecting on unity amidst national challenges.

Bob Parnell, a Baptist minister and councilman, appreciated participating in the celebration, referring to the pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness as foundational rights. Porter County Clerk Jessica Bailey valued the holiday’s unifying power.

Lenny Corso of Indiana Vocational Technical College appreciated the long-standing endurance of government segments and the need for collaboration. Vietnam-era veteran Corso found joy in the festive parade.

Valparaiso Councilman Robert Cotton used the event as an opportunity to campaign and critique the current administration, citing polls as an indicator of public opinion. He emphasized the need for national unity and understanding.

Freelance reporter Doug Ross contributed this report for the Post-Tribune.