0Residents of the Northside of Madison are reviving a family-friendly neighborhood Independence Day celebration – which was what took place prior to the two-decade reign of Rhythm & Booms.
 
A local committee headed by Karen Bassler, director of the Northside Planning Council, has been working for months planning the event, set for Saturday, July 5, 2014.
 
The event will begin with a brief 9 a.m. parade, starting at Warner Park, heading south on North Sherman Avenue onto Trailsway, and then returning to the park. The parade will feature kids on decorated bicycles, veterans and community groups. (Those arriving by 8:30 a.m. can view the Gold Wings motorcycle parade, which will also travel North Sherman Avenue.)
 
A patriotic ceremony will follow at 10:15 a.m. at the Statue of Liberty replica in the park. Mayor Paul Soglin and Roger Boeker of the Sons of the American Revolution will speak.
 
Games, music and food vending will follow. Free pontoon boat rides will be offered at Warner Beach.

“We’re planning something for everyone, from young to old,” said committee member Karen Hickel. Madison School Community Recreation and the Northeast Side Senior Coalition are assisting with the event.
 
The community event will conclude at 3 p.m., followed by a Mallards baseball game at 4:35 p.m. A free concert and fireworks will be presented by the Mallards following the game.
 
Event sponsors include the Northside Business Association, Thompson Investment Management and numerous local businesses and individuals.