Portage Celebrates Nation’s 250th Birthday with Enthusiastic Parade

An estimated 10,000 people gathered on Saturday to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary with a vibrant parade in Portage. Mayor Austin Bonta remarked on the city’s strong patriotic spirit. People traveled from as far as Whiting to join the celebration.

Mila Rayber, aged 2, attended the parade with her father, Travis, representing Indiana Elite Gymnastics. Mayor Bonta emphasized the importance of honoring the nation’s founding principles and the inherent rights given by God. He shared his family history, with his great-grandparents having migrated from Poland and Italy. Bonta stated, “You can be an American by coming here,” reflecting the inclusive nature of the country.

Angelica Harnisch, a Portage resident, expressed pride in her father’s journey from Michoacán, Mexico to becoming a U.S. citizen after 18 years. Her husband, Karl Harnisch, enjoyed celebrating the significant anniversary, remarking, “It’s unlike any other Fourth of July. It’s one of the biggest ones ever.”

Janice Newcomb, who remembers the bicentennial, noted how much Portage has changed, calling it more exciting now. She and her husband, Don Newcomb, planned a family cookout and fireworks viewing.

Joni Maxwell, participating in the parade, celebrated both the nation’s milestone and her insurance agency’s centennial. John Keyl, commander of American Legion Post 26 and a Gulf War veteran, shared his enthusiasm for the extensive celebrations.

Portage resident Joe Gzromek took part by tossing candy to children, enjoying giving back to the community. Tim Huckabay and his wife amused onlookers with their Chihuahua driving a small car operated by remote control.

Mike Pollak paraded with two Great Danes, who remained unfazed by the loud celebrations. Kate Scholobohm promoted Hagrid’s Hope, a local cat rescue, and expressed pride in their accomplishments.

Derek Bood, dressed as Uncle Sam, highlighted the significance of the event, noting his family’s roots in the area going back to the 1800s. David Barcelli, also in an Uncle Sam costume, appreciated the unity displayed amid national challenges.

Councilman Bob Parnell, serving the city and celebrating national freedoms, reflected on the unalienable rights from the Declaration of Independence. The parade featured Lenny Corso, a Vietnam-era veteran and professor, who appreciated the event’s reflection on government endurance.

Porter County Clerk Jessica Bailey valued the holiday as an opportunity for national unity. Valparaiso Councilman Robert Cotton, campaigning for a fellow Democrat, considered the current political climate a test of unity in the country.

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