March 29, 2024

‘Tis the season for making memories

Newton YMCA sponsors two free showings at Capitol II

The Newton YMCA, along with the help of United Way of Jasper County and Capitol II Theatre, are sponsoring a family fun event this weekend at the theatre, two free showings of “The Muppet Christmas Carol.”

The first showing will take place at 10 a.m. Friday and the second at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Capitol II Theatre. Both events are free and open to the public, with a special appearance by Santa Claus Saturday.

Funding for the event comes from the Newton YMCA which applied and received a grant from United Way of Jasper County for special events like this.

“The goal of the grant is to allow Jasper County families to share a positive, healthy experience, have fun and enjoy spending time together,” United Way Executive Director and former Newton YMCA Marketing and Membership Director Jessica Lowe said.

With excessive shopping and extensive dinners this holiday season, it seems as though many have a tight budget everywhere else. This event gives all families in the community an opportunity to do something memorable together at no cost.

“The idea was brought up to us by Jessica Lowe a couple years ago because attending community sponsored movies was a fond childhood memory of hers. We love the thought of helping make positive memories so we are very open with the idea of co-sponsoring events with organizations,” Capitol II Theatre co-owner Dawn Bleeker said.

Paul and Dawn Bleeker allowed the YMCA to use to their facility for the family and community event at no charge, donating the space, Newton YMCA Marketing and Membership Director Karen Parman said.

“The Muppet Christmas Carol” introduces children to the classic Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” story as well as the humorous Muppet characters with Gonzo as Dickens and Kermit as Bob Cratchit.

“Lowe picked a great movie because we’ve had a phenomenal response to our tickets,” Parman said.

Movie tickets are available at the Newton YMCA, Capitol II Theatre and United Way of Jasper County.  Tickets will be given away until seating reaches capacity.

For more information, call 641-792-4006.

Contact Kate Malott at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or at kmalott@newtondailynews.com.