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Family favorite 'E.T.' to be presented at free 'drive-in' at Szot Park

Date: 8/12/2009

By G. Michael Dobbs

Managing Editor



CHICOPEE -- Older residents might remember a summer-time tradition in the city: going to the Airline drive-in theater to catch a double feature or a dusk to dawn show.

That tradition is returning in an ecologically friendly way on Aug. 20 when the city presents a free outdoor performance of the family favorite "E.T." in Szot Park.

Heather Canady, the special projects manager for Mayor Michael Bissonnette, explained the presentation would be a trial. If it proves to be popular, the city might consider doing a series of "green drive-ins" next year.

The show will start at 6 p.m. on the football field at the park with a DJ. While the concession stand will be open, Canady said families are welcomed to bring a picnic. No alcohol or dogs will be allowed at the showing. The audience can either sit in the stands or bring their own chairs or blankets, she added.

The film will be shown on a large outdoor screen at dusk around 8 p.m., she said. The rain date is Aug. 27.

"This is the first time we've done this," Canady said. "With money so tight we wanted to give the families of Chicopee something free and fun to do."

The city's federal census program will also have a booth at the presentation urging people to participate in the census next year. The city's goal is 100 percent participation in the census. Canady explained the census determines how federal dollars are allocated to support programs used by city residents.

The presentation is made possible through sponsorship by the Chicopee Electric Light department, Desrochers and Sons Tree Service and the Parks and Recreations Department.