Bridgeport Daze looks for bigger and better turnouts

BRIDGEPORT—Bridgeport Daze had a familiar fixture lead its parade last Saturday, June 8, though most folks familiar with it are unaccustomed to seeing it move. It was the World War II-era M3 Half Track, which can normally be found parked at the Berryman Park War Memorial exhibit.

“It’s been about 10 years since I last drove it in the parade,” said Matt West, Bridgeport public works crew leadman.

West and a co-worker got the rig running again, and West said it was not that difficult doing so,

 “We put fresh fuel and a new battery in it, and it started right up,” West said.

With veterans Neil Walker and Tom West aboard and Matt at the wheel, the 1942-43 era warhorse was a parade highlight. 

“It looks pretty cool with the 105mm howitzer towed behind,” West said.

Bridgeport Mayor Sergio Orozco and Rock Island Mayor and Douglas County Commissioner candidate Randy Agnew followed in a military jeep. 

Bridgeport Daze is the latest event to be taken over by the Chamber of Commerce, which is busy expanding traditional city events and adding new ones to promote citizen participation and pride.

President Jose Sanchez said a downtown street dance held the evening before the parade attracted a large turnout.

“That was a success,” said Sanchez. “It started at 8 p.m., and by 10 p.m., we had a large crowd.”

Other attractions included the Bridgeport and Brewster school bands, cheerleaders, AAU soccer clubs, lowrider cars, and high-stepping dancing horses.

We would like to expand it into three days, from Friday night to Sunday morning,” said Sanchez. “We are hoping to add a beer garden to the dance next year.”

Mike Maltais: 360-333-8483 or michael@ward.media