Highlights of Independence Day Celebration.
To watch slide show, swipe left or right or click arrows.
The heat of the day did not keep the huge crowd away from the festivities at Riverside Park on July 3rd 2021.
The morning kicked off with a parade down Marquette street with all who wanted to show off their patriotism. At noon, children decorated their bikes, trikes, wagons and pets in red, white and blue, then paraded down the pathway from the South Shelter House to the North Shelter House. Judges were: Joel Bruessel-Mayor of Berlin, Chris Kalupa-Library Director, and Jeff Engel-Berlin Chief of Police. Prizes were awarded by Amy Lehman to the best in show in three categories; bikes, wagons and pets.
Park festivities got under way at the grounds of North Shelter House around 1:00 with the fabulous “Del Rays” leading off the fun for the day drawing a huge crowd. Oldies but goodies provided the genre for the dance enthusiasts, then provided a tribute to our beautiful America.
There was plenty of food available including the ABC Groups dollar hot dogs. Vicki’s lunch Wagon, River Shores Church,
Smokehose Barbeque, The Dairy Barn and Nachos and Pretzels. Beverages were available at the bar with featured bartenders, Barry & Karen Mastricola--Country Inn, Tom Malchetske--First Weber, Bob Zache--Retired Law Enforcement, Stephanie – Hitching Post, Bob Malchetske--Farmers & Merchants Bank. Stacy Zietlow & Bucky Weser-Bucky’s, Ajshe & Chris Jecevicus-- Izzy’s and Hoot’Nanny’s, Joel Bruessel--Mayor, Wendy Swansby--Fortifi Bank and Harry Kwidzinski—ABC Group.
Games and fun could be found everywhere with 2 bounce houses and plenty of kids games provided by River Shores Church, as well as a coin dig provided by the ABC Group. More games for prizes included the return of the “Big Wheel” and the all new “Pingko”.
Afternoon entertainment continued on with the ever popular “Moonlighters” as well as the Civil War style cannon, complete with soldiers dressed in period-appropriate uniforms who fired shots on the hour across the Fox River. Several market vendors were also present to sell their goods along with face painting.
Around 8:00, the ATV and cash raffle winners were announced, followed by the “Cougars” who rocked the park with their incredible talents. At dusk, viewers were awed by the lighted boat parade headed up by Ron Harke and the Berlin Boat Club as well as the fantastic fireworks provided by the City of Berlin. A spectacular site for all to enjoy.
Core members of the ABC Group are: Harry Kwidzinski, Sue & Dave Trampf, Kathy Keiner & Dave Tsai, Vicky & Vince Pawlacyk, Dan Hoppa, Mary Hopfensperger, Ron Harke, Jerry & Deb Dowen and Amy Lehman—ALL volunteers of the ABC Group AKA /Achieve a Better Community. This group wishes to give thanks to all the sponsors and praise to all the additional volunteers who gave of their time and talents to make this a premier event for the community.