On a breezy, overcast Thursday morning, shortly after sunrise, adoring fans gathered to watch the production of the move of Howie the Cow. Howie will be making his debut appearance, flanked by the Kelsey's Steak House employee family from Valpo and Portage, in the Chicagoland Popcorn Festival Parade on Saturday morning in honor of the late Jack Hood, former owner of Kelsey's Steak House.
Howie the Cow arrived at the original Kelsey's location in 1994, after he grazed from his former home at Howard and Son's Meats. He quickly became a restaurant mascot and beloved Valparaiso landmark. In November 2005, he made yet another move, to his current location at 2300 US Hwy 30.
Sources tell us that when the restaurant was purchased by Jack and Peggy Hood, 3 1/2 years ago, there were thoughts of having Howie removed. After much debate, and numerous calls from concerned Howie fans, he was spared!
Peggy said of the conversations as to whether or not he should be kept, "I was vastly overruled. Jack liked the cow more than I did."
"It was a collaborative idea by all the Kelsey's family to have Howie in the parade." Peggy said. "We wanted it to be a commemorative event to celebrate Jack's life. Our family wishes to thank the community for the continued love and support. It is greatly appreciated!"
Mr. Hood was in a tragic accident on August 5, 2014, in Michigan City, IN and passed away on August 6, 2014.
After careful planning and execution by G.E. Marshall Excavating, Howie was hoisted, strategically and gently placed on awaiting lowboy trailer, driven by Randy Pullins, for the move to his temporary residence at a bay at Marshall's located at 1351 Joliet Rd., Valparaiso. He will reside there until his appearance at the parade.
"It's pretty cool. I've hauled a lot of things for the parade, including Bigfoot and the Grand Champion 4-H Steer. Last year, I hauled the Valparaiso Marching Band. This is a pretty cool deal though because Howie is the center of attention." Pullins said.
Ross Marshall, Co-Owner, G.E. Marshall said the move came about when Peggy and Michelle Prosser, Manager at Kelsey's Valpo location, ask for some help with the move.
"We like to participate in any activities here in Valparaiso to help the community," Marshall added.
When asked why the event is so special, Michelle shared, "Jack loved the cow. Jack was a very special person and he was bigger than life and I think this is a nice tribute to him."
As Howie left for the short journey down Lincolnway to his temporary home, he was escorted by Sgt. Tom Zimmerman of the Valparaiso Police Department and the procession of happy fans. Along the way, people stopped and greeted Howie with waves, smiles, and several photos. It's safe to say, Howie has attained "rockstar" status!
"This is so exciting! I'm so glad to be a part of this. I think Jack is smiling down on us," Mary Pope, Bartender/Manager Valparaiso Kelsey's said.