Gilbert Portela has been named grand marshal of this year’s Roanoke Rapids Christmas Parade, the city and Citizens Community Bank announced this morning.

The announcement was made on the Good Morning Lake Country talk show on WPTM.

“This individual epitomizes the Christmas spirit every day of his life,” CCB Roanoke Rapids Branch Manager Yvonne Thompson said on the show this morning.

“He makes Christmas happen for people every day,” said talk show host Charlie Beaver. “He makes magic happen for people every day.”

Thompson and Beaver were referring to Portela’s work through his Angel’s Closet ministry.

City Parks and Recreation Direction John Simeon, who is helping coordinate the December 2 parade, said he spoke with Portela Wednesday. “We’re going to put him on a professional float and have 15 children with him. It’s nice to recognize Gilbert and put a smile on his face because he’s put a smile on the faces of so many.”

For more information on the parade, which begins at 2 p.m., visit its website.