Madison Prepares for "Occupy Madison"

In anticipation of an event known as "Occupy Madison", Madison Mayor Paul Soglin is working with Police, Parks, Health and other departments to maintain a peaceful event. "Occupy Madison" is being described as an opportunity for people to gather, share ideas and train in community organizing. The occupation, which reportedly has no structured organization, but has been promoted through social media, will be staged in Reynolds Park in Madison's Near East Side in the Tenney Lapham neighborhood. Mayor Soglin said, "I am confident that working with protesters and neighbors, the city will be able to maintain the quality of life for the residents of Tenney Lapham and to keep everyone safe." Guidelines have been established for protesters using the park including a waiver of the park closing time. Occupiers will be allowed to spend the night in the park; however, no tents are allowed. Quiet hours will be enforced. There will be no vending of food or merchandise to the public allowed and no cooking or use of generators. Alcohol, dogs and glass containers are not permitted in the park nor are camp fires. Protesters have committed to trash pickup. City officials have met with some of the protesters involved in a continued effort to maintain a safe event. Madison Police and other city officials will have a constant presence at the park. It is currently anticipated that this event will conclude Sunday evening.