400 ATTEND LOCAL MOVIE IN THE PARK

Music and movies in park is a success.  More than 400 people came out  to enjoy free Movies in the Park event at Woodward Park. This Saturday, the music starts at 7 p.m., cartoons at 8:30 p.m. and the featured film – the PG-rated “August Rush” at 9:15 p.m. 

Saturday in the Park
More than 400 enjoy free music & movie

Dennis Wyatt
Managing Editor
Manteca Bulletin

Music and movies.

It was a winning combination Saturday evening at Woodward Park as more than 400 people attended the inaugural free Movies in the Park event at Woodward Park.

“It was great,” said Fred White who not only conceived of the event but also is essentially footing the bill unless he gets enough sponsors to cover the tab.

Deputy Parks & Recreation Director Bruce Mulder couldn’t agree more.

“It accomplishes just what our department motto says – creating community with people, parks and projects,” Mulder said.

The first week of movies got off with just some minor glitches as families flocked to Woodward Park bringing blankets, chairs, picnic baskets, and pillows. Many also partook of various offerings of vendors for the outdoor movie theatre that included a nearby playground.

The bands were as popular as the movie. This Saturday, the music starts at 7 p.m., cartoons at 8:30 p.m. and the featured film – the PG-rated “August Rush” – at 9:15 p.m.

In keeping with the film’s theme, Agape Villages will be the special guest.

The non-profit organization places foster children. They will have information about their services and will be conducting a raffle as well as accepting donations.

DeCristo Productions in conjunction with the Manteca Parks & Recreation Department is conducting the free Movies in the Park for five weeks ending Aug.9.

White, who owns DeCristo Productions, said parents were particularly appreciative of the inexpensive way to have a family outing on a Saturday evening.

The 20-foot wide screen is near the playground area.

All of the production is in high definition. Admission is free and people are encouraged to bring blankets and their own snacks. The Manteca Christian School, though, will have concessions available. Those wanting a vendor booth for the evening can secure them for $100.

It takes the movies in the park conducted in previous years by the Manteca Convention & Visitors Bureau at Library Park to the next level. By being on a Saturday night instead of Tuesday, White hopes to encourage more families to attend. His production company also has cutting edge audio-visual equipment that will enhance the experience of watching high definition big screen features while lounging on the grass under the stars.

Among the other sponsors so far are Sigma Home Loans, Yosemite Nursery, Best RV Center, Manteca Baseball and Softball Academy, Agape Villages and Carpenters Steam Cleaning.

For more information, contact White at (916) 760-7363.

 

Thanks,
Carol Perdew
www.CentralValleyHomes.com