This years 4th of July Celebration was held at the Thomas Jefferson Middle School, and brought to you by Valpo Parks. The evening began at 6:30 with a beautiful Posting of Colors by area veterans. The Crawpuppies, a local and well known band, played directly after to a very welcoming crowd. It was easy to see they have quite a following whether they were playing original songs or covering everyone’s favorites.
Vendors from the area were on hand if you were in the mood for some ice cream, snacks or even a frozen banana while you enjoyed the concert. Children ran and played on the several playgrounds, adults set up spots perfect for viewing the Celebration and took time to visit with family and friends.
Mayor Costas, welcomed everyone after the Crawpuppies’ first set and a group of outstanding local individuals took part in the reading of the Declaration of Independence. The group of readers varied greatly, from Rosa Cohn, a 3rd grader at T.J. Elementary, to John Wolf, a World War II Veteran. The ages of the readers appear to be chosen quite deliberately, allowing for a full “four score and seven year" difference between the youngest and oldest speakers.
The National Anthem was played and the entire crowd rose to show their respect. The Crawpuppies entertained everyone again until dusk, and then a spectacular fireworks show was put on by Ace Pyro. It was “the best fireworks show ever!” according to one enthusiastic little lady in the crowd. I’m sure others would agree it was quite a moving evening all around.
Readers of the Declaration of Independence:
- Mona Sehgal, Valpo High School Student
- John Wolf, World War II Vet
- Cathie Dull, Discoveries Unlimited
- Scott Cvelbar, Valo Community Schools
- Kaye Frataccia, Resident
- Jon Costas, Mayor of Valpo
- Rosa Cohn, TJ Elementary Student
- Robert Cotton, Resident
- Victoria Ubben, First Christian Church
- Carlos Rivero, Don Quijote Restaurant
- Brian Williams, Resident
- Alan Bloom, Valpo University
- Emma Porter, IU Student
- Hayley Williams, Macalester College Student
- Landon Davison, IU Student
- Ric Frataccia, Portage Township Schools
- Joey Larr, Valpo City Council
- Jane Strayer, Valpo Community Schools
- James Tudor, Tudor Services
- Jon Groth, Porter County Career and Tech Center
Click here for more photos from the celebration!