Movie attracts the masses

Published 9:17 am Tuesday, August 16, 2011

AHOSKIE – Movie in the Park is a huge success.

That is the estimate of Ahoskie Mayor Linda Blackburn and the members of the Ahoskie Town Council, according to their comments last week.

During the comment portion of their agenda, Blackburn and others talked about the project which has been on-going for a while, but drew a record crowd of 400 last month.

“It was the best feeling to see over 400 people there,” Blackburn said. “It was one of the hottest nights so far and it was also during the Watermelon Festival.”

Blackburn said the Ahoskie Volunteer Firefighters, who sponsored the event, bought their truck to the park along with hats for the children in attendance.

She also credited the Ahoskie Chamber of Commerce with providing popcorn, drinks and snow cones. The mayor reminded the public, however, that if a person wanted to have a free night, they could bring a cooler with snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.

Later in the meeting, Ahoskie Town Manager Tony Hammond talked about the upcoming Movie in the Park, which is scheduled for August 26. This month’s movie will be “Megamind.”

He said the town is looking for sponsors for several months of the popular event, including the August Movie in the Park. Those wishing to sponsor the movie can do so for $350.

Hammond said people should remember there is no rain date for Movie in the Park because it can be moved inside in the town gym. He said the facility would accommodate a crowd the size that attended the last movie night.

In other business, the board:

  • heard from citizen Rhonda Riddick concerning her water/sewer bill;
  • recognized Randy Parker as Employee of the Month;
  • approved a request for rezoning by Wal-mart; and
  • approved the Emergency Response plans.