2018 was full of great news stories from all over the area! We took a look at our top articles from 2018 and were amazed by the sheer number of events, activities, and positive moments we were able to share.
Looking back on the year at PortageLife, it’s truly amazing how many good things are constantly happening in our community. We’ve profiled hundreds of people for Life in the Spotlight articles, snapped photos of ribbon cuttings, festivals, and parades, and generally been around to find the good news happening in the community.
We had a good 2018 and are looking forward to making 2019 even better! Before you put the year totally in the past, take a look back at our best articles from 2018!
A Portage Life in The Spotlight: Ken Elwood
When Ken Elwood looks at his hometown of Portage, he sees a community bursting with the same qualities that his mother personified in Elwood's childhood: toughness, passion, and grit.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Amanda Alaniz
Amanda Alaniz is a wonderful reflection of the Portage community. By day, Alaniz takes care of 8,000 students as a Superintendent, and by night she is a loving wife and mother. She paved the way for other women as the first female Superintendent for Portage School System. From Northwest Indiana beginnings, to overseeing all schools in Portage Indiana, Alaniz is a true inspiration.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Brandon Clair
Technology advances fast, but people are quick to adapt. Not even 10 years ago, radio-controlled helicopters and other drones were largely novelty toys packed under Christmas trees, now it is a multi-million dollar industry led by professional such as Portage's Brandon Clair and his business Timeless Aerial Photography.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Carl Fisher
When people can do what they love as they work and contribute to the greater good of the community, most people say they've found their dream. Carl Fisher is lucky enough to be one of those people. A retired superintendent and lifelong volunteer of the Portage Historical Society, Fisher loves preserving history and educating people about the past.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Devon Mulligan
"It's a small town, with a big city attraction that has Midwest hospitality."
A Portage Life In The Spotlight: Amy Parker
Amy Parker reflects on the importance of enjoying the current moment and helping others, as well as making time for family and for loved ones. Parker grew up in Fort Wayne and attended Bishop Lewis High School before moving to Portage.
A Portage Life in the Spotlight: Wilma Willard
Wilma Willard is more than just a Portage citizen; she is a powerful and positive force within the community. As Title 1 Coordinator for Portage Township Schools and an active member of Liberty Bible Church, Willard is a person who loves life and strives to instill that love in others.
A Portage Life in The Spotlight: Gary Germann
If there's one thing Gary Germann loves, it's the thrill of a new challenge. A licensed criminal defense lawyer who's been in practice for 45 years, Germann enjoys rising to the occasion when facing down difficulties. Thankfully, though, Gary Germann loves a great many things, and his devotion to his family announces itself in the tone of his voice.
#1StudentNWI: Portage Celebrates Stellar Athletes and Teachers
Student in the Spotlight: Portage High School is full of talented students that are involved in many sports, clubs and extracurricular activities. For this months student in the spotlight we are recognizing an amazing athlete that is not only involved in the school but as well in the community, Kale Nelson.
A Portage Life in The Spotlight: Nancy Simpson
Northwest Indiana in a community built on relationships, supported by a strong network of businesses which in turn rely on the continued support from those customers they serve. Perhaps no one knows this better than Nancy Simpson, who has served as Executive Director at Portage Chamber of Commerce since January of 2016.
