Randall Franks
Richmond Blackwell
Johnny Long
The Boynton Lions Club and the Ringgold Convention and Visitors Bureau will host a patriotic film Tuesday, July 11, 7:15 p.m. at the Ringo Theater.
“At one time going to films in downtown Ringgold were a regular part of life in our community,” said Rhonda Johnson, Main Street manager, “The Ringo Theater sat on Nashville Street near the Ringgold Depot and we are pleased to offer the opportunity once again. Our classic theater venue now lives on in the historic surroundings of the Ringgold Depot.”
The movie shown will be the Monument Men starring George Clooney, Matt Damon, Bill Murray, John Goodman, Jean Dujardin, Bob Balaban, Hugh Bonneville, and Cate Blanchett and is set during World War II as the Nazis steal countless pieces of art and hide them away. A band of some over-the-hill art scholars, historians, architects and other experts form a unit to retrieve as many of the stolen masterpieces as possible. The mission becomes even more urgent when the team learns about Hitler's "Nero Decree," which orders destruction of the artworks if the Third Reich falls. Caught in a race against time, the men risk their lives to protect some of mankind's greatest achievements.
Boynton Lions Club board of directors member Randall Franks, who is also known around the world for his work as a film and TV actor, said their club is excited to host this special event.
"This patriotic film is a unique look at an aspect of war that is often overlooked - the destruction of our cultural legacies,” said Mr. Franks. “One of my favorite stories as a child was from a WWII veteran named Cotton Carrier who shared with me about his liberation of Mozart's violin. That always intrigued me."
Lions Club president Richmond Blackwell, who encouraged the club to begin featuring movies in Ringgold, said he hopes folks will turnout for the event and help make a difference.
"What we do in the community isn't possible without the support of people attending fundraising events like this one, and all the great partners who support what we do," said Mr. Blackwell.
Movie concessions will be available.
Boynton Lions Vision committee chair Johnny Long said Lions set their sight on vision. “The gift of sight means so much and for about $100, thanks to our local optometrist partner we can help someone see well again,” he said. "Our summer event will help us do many of our community projects including vision.
A Ringo Theater helps reach that goal through its event partners including Blackwell Automotive, Boynton United Methodist Church, Hamilton Glass Co. of Dalton, J&J Trophies & Signs, Norman and Ronda Lansford, Dennis Mason Contruction, Ryan Stinson Music, Weeks and Peters Insurance and others, he said.
“We were hoping to have at least 15 event partners to step forward,” Mr. Franks said. “There is still time to help by being a partner whether you have a business or are an individual. There will be an opportunity for attendees to donate to the cause at both events that evening as well as a place to donate your old glasses to be also be re-used.”
“I hope you will consider though that we have people in need right here in Catoosa County who need one basic element which can help them improve their lives and that of their families by just being able to read more clearly, drive more safely, and enjoy what is around them with greater clarity," Mr. Franks said. "You can change one person’s life. Help us give the gift of sight.”
To become an event partner, which is shared with attendees, e-mail Randall Franks at rfrankscatoosa@gmail.com or to find out more information call Main Street Manager Rhonda Johnson at (706) 935-3061.