Amy Carlson says she loved organizing the Bay View Bash these last four years and didn't want it to end. But she didn't see eye-to-eye with the Bay View Neighborhood Association's vision for the festival, and she resigned last month.

When the BVNA announced this weekend that it was putting the festival on hold this year, and potentially indefinitely, Carlson -- who's also the OnMilwaukee.com dining critic -- is trying to revive the Bash.

"It would be shame for a festival that's grown in size, scope and popularity these last four years, to end," says Carlson. "Fortunately, we parted ways amicably, and the BVNA has indicated that they're willing to support anyone who is willing to bring back the festival."

Carlson says she's heard from neighbors and business owners about keeping the Bash alive, and she's excited to put the wheels in motion for a fifth year. She's holding a strategic planning meeting, Thurs., March 6 at Bella's Fat Cat., 2737 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., at 6 p.m. Carlson says she hopes volunteers will help make this year's event, slated for Sept. 13, a success.

Says Carlson, "Over the past four years, the Bay View Bash has become so much more than just an event. It has become a way for the residents of Bay View to express themselves through music and art, to showcase our local businesses, and to work together to strengthen our community. With some dedication, we can save the Bash."