The Portage parade and lights celebration was a huge success. It was a good time for the whole community. Hundreds of people came out to show support for their town with their friends and family.
Before the parade, there was a community meal sponsored by Walgreens, Schoop’s and the Kiwanis Club. Hot dogs, chili and baked potatoes were all served.
"It turned out to be a much bigger success since we brought it to the school. It's really all about the kids and I think holding it at Willowcreek Middle School really showed that," Connie Ellefson of the Kiwanis Club said.
The Dunes Leathernecks Detachment (Marine Corps League) of Valparaiso was there collecting gifts for Toys for Tots.
"It's just such an honor to be able to help out the community by collecting the toys for the kids in need," Joe Buenrostro said.
Mike Hughes, Portage’s local train enthusiast, had his personal collection of trains set up and running. He had an entire Christmas town. The Portage Township Schools Choir were also there performing for the event.
The parade started at Willowcreek Middle School and went all the way to Gilbert Park. A few of the floats included Precision Towing, which handed out hot chocolate to all the kids, the Willowcreek Middle School Choir and of course our local Fire Department, which gave Santa a lift. Mayor Jim Snyder and his family were also in the parade riding in a horse drawn buggy.
After the parade was the celebration at Gilbert Park. Children were able take pictures with Santa. Local author Officer Joe Mokel read his Christmas story called “The Bottom Shelf Elf” and handed out copies to some of the kids. Everyone was able to enjoy hot chocolate and baked goods provided for purchase by the Myers Student Council bake sale while watching the beautiful Christmas lights light up the entire park.
All pictures will be available for pick up at City Hall on Wednesday, Dec. 5. If you not able to pick u,p please contact City Hall to set up a different arrangement.