Nearly 10,000 individuals gathered in Portage this past Saturday to honor the 250th birthday of the United States with a grand parade. Mayor Austin Bonta highlighted the spirit of patriotism in one of Northwest Indiana’s most dedicated cities. Attendees traveled from locations like Whiting to join the celebration.
Mila Rayber, aged 2, represented Indiana Elite Gymnastics as she sat atop her father Travis’s shoulders during the parade. Mayor Bonta emphasized the importance of instilling the founding values of the nation in the next generation, including recognizing the rights given by God.
Bonta, whose great-grandparents immigrated from Poland and Italy, remarked, “You can be an American by coming here,” underscoring what he believes defines America’s greatness.
Angelica Harnisch also attended the parade, expressing pride in her father, who became a U.S. citizen after emigrating from Michoacán, Mexico. Her husband, Karl Harnisch, saw the semiquincentennial celebration as particularly significant. “It’s amazing,” he shared, noting the event’s scale.
Longtime resident Janice Newcomb reflected on the changes in Portage since the bicentennial in 1976, stating it’s now more vibrant. She and her husband, Don Newcomb, were surrounded by family under a canopy, appreciating the day together. Janice noted, “It’s probably the nicest Fourth of July in a long time.” Don considered the nation’s endurance, reflecting on its long history of democracy.
The celebration included various community members. Joni Maxwell participated on the Samuelson Insurance float, celebrating both the nation’s birthday and the agency’s 100th anniversary. Meanwhile, John Keyl, American Legion Post 26 Commander, expressed enthusiasm for the festivities as a Gulf War Marine veteran.
Joe Gzromek engaged with the community by spreading candy, reminiscing about childhood parade experiences. The event also featured unique participants, like Tim Huckabay walking with his cane alongside his remote-controlled Chihuahua-driven car, and Mike Pollak escorting two Great Danes amid the excitement.
Kate Schlobohm represented Hagrid’s Hope, a local cat rescue. Her float highlighted their success of rehoming 70 cats last year. She praised the collaboration among their group of volunteers.
Derek Bood, dressed as Uncle Sam, cited his family’s history dating back to Portage’s first settlers. He described the celebration as a phenomenal shared experience. David Barcelli, also sporting an Uncle Sam costume, found comfort in community unity despite national challenges.
Councilman Bob Parnell reflected on his gratitude for the opportunity to serve and celebrate the fundamental rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness mentioned in the Declaration of Independence. Festival highlights included Wiggles, a Chihuahua in a toy car operated by Althea Huckabay.
Lenny Corso, a professor from Indiana Vocational Technical College, acknowledged the parade’s energy, expressing optimism that reason will preserve governmental stability despite fragility.
Porter County Clerk Jessica Bailey viewed the holiday as a unifying moment for the nation. Valparaiso Councilman Robert Cotton, campaigning for a political colleague, discussed national sentiment in the context of current political leadership, calling it a test of unity.
This celebration in Portage marked a significant commemorative event showcasing unity, tradition, and community pride for America’s 250th year.