The 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks inspired Chesterton firefighter Marc Mihalik to participate in the 5K Popcorn Panic, walking about 3.1 miles in full gear. Along the route, Mihalik fielded some quirky questions. When asked if he was a firefighter or a stripper, Mihalik grinned and replied yes. Originally, Mihalik planned to walk in a 5K race in Chesterton, but it was canceled due to damage from the August 11 derecho. Instead, he moved to the Popcorn Festival event.
Reflecting on his career choice, Mihalik humorously explained, “We’re psychotic is what we tell people. It’s a calling.” Participating in the 5K might not be his last adventure in full gear; he mentioned interest in a future stair climb event.
Jennifer Wright, CEO of Hilltop Neighborhood House, took part in Saturday’s parade, sharing corn hats with her supporters. “We have about 100 walkers coming out today for Hilltop,” she announced. Wright has been involved since the festival’s inception in 1979 and finds it a highlight of living in Valparaiso, noting the participation of school bands, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and cheerleaders.
Valparaiso Events registered more than 100 entries in the parade. Donna Flanagin, a 47-year attendee, appeared in full fairy godmother attire, fittingly placing her float in the 47th spot. Having recently sold her business, she enjoys retirement while riding a fairy castle float, contributing to the magical atmosphere by engaging with children along the route. “The kids are amazing, and we do this for them,” Flanagin expressed.
Leonard and Linda Kazmirski from Mishawake converted a 23-foot boat trailer into a patriotic float, showcasing it throughout the summer. Their float-making hobby began in 2011, when Leonard started volunteering for South Bend Little League’s Memorial Day parade. They gained national recognition in the 2019 Memorial Day parade in Washington, D.C., connecting with notable figures such as Lou Holtz, who delighted in their Mishawaka roots.
Leonard shared their extensive parade participation, attending up to 30 each year, focusing on evening events during the Christmas season for the added spectacle of lights. Some destinations include parades in Chesterton, Auburn, and Battle Creek, Michigan.
On the day of the Popcorn Festival, the Valparaiso Police Department honor guard led a procession, and the festival featured various vendors. Scott Gabel, who assisted at the St. Paul Men’s Club tent, highlighted their charitable efforts, aiming to sell 3,100 brats and hot dogs. Despite last year’s rain creating surplus, this year’s favorable weather projected substantial fundraising for local causes.
The longstanding presence of St. Paul Men’s Club at the festival underscores the church’s community involvement, enhancing its visibility among those seeking a parish.
Doug Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.