Enjoying Movies in Millwood Park

By Zarah Kavarana

After weeks of laughs, popcorn, and rain, Movies in Millwood Park ended its four-series season with family favorite, Despicable Me.

The Chappaqua-Millwood Chamber of Commerce organized the event in its first year. The viewing equipment and speakers were purchased by Rich Glotzer, owner of Drug Mart of Millwood, and donated to the Chamber of Commerce for the public’s enjoyment.

Classically, the Chamber of Commerce has had an easier time organizing events in Chappaqua, which has a beautiful downtown area. With so many events and opportunities in Chappaqua, Movies in Millwood Park was originally put together to give the Millwood community the same great summer experience, regardless of its lack of a downtown.

Rob Greensteen, founder of the Chappaqua-Millwood Chamber of Commerce, expanded on the issue.

He said, “The problem with Millwood is that it doesn’t have a downtown, like Chappaqua. In Chappaqua we have events like the Sidewalk Sale and the Fall Festival coming up because there is a downtown. Because Millwood doesn’t have a downtown, it becomes a little more challenging.”

Week by week, the Chamber of Commerce presented older classics, like E.T.

the Extra-Terrestrial, as well as newer picks like Happy Feet, Here Comes the Boom, and Despicable Me. The movies chosen were geared toward viewers of all ages. There was truly something everyone could enjoy!

Next year, the Chamber of Commerce will allow members of the public to decide on what movies will be played. They will compile a list of family-friendly movies and post it a few months before the event kicks off.

People can vote for their favorites from the list, and the top picks will be featured in the summer.

The event was originally meant to run during June only. With terrible spurts of hot and rainy weather, there were three cancellations for Movies in Millwood Park. Event dates stretched far into July.

All movies took place on Friday nights under the stars. They began at 8:30 and were free to the public. Complimentary popcorn was available to munch on during the movie, while candy, drinks, and snacks were for sale at a concession stand.

Overall, Movies in Millwood Park was a success. On some nights, 200 to 300 residents joined to take part in the fun.

Greensteen said, “The best sign of a successful event is that if we stopped it next year, people would get upset. I think that’s what would happen here.

I haven’t spoken to anyone who doesn’t think that this is a great idea.”

Sponsors included Drug Mart, Tazza Cafe, Matero Fine Jewelry, Susan Pecker from The Camp Connection. Members of the Chappaqua-Millwood Chamber of Commerce said that they will be able to do more with the event next year, provided that it is supported by more sponsors.

Millwood Park is located at 235 Sawmill River Road in Millwood, next to Rocky’s Deli.