Family Affair on Clearwater BeachBy Vicki JacksonAt last there's something new for the whole family to enjoy, and the price is right-it's free. For decades, Clearwater Beach residents have lamented the dearth of entertainment options available for families. The fee-based attractions can be cost-prohibitive and, while the playground is fantastic fun for the young ones, it's just not appropriate for everyone. Some weekend beachgoers may have noticed a giant, one and one-half story, theater screen erected on the underutilized grassy area in front of the Pier 60 Park. Lisa Chandler, coordinator for the Sunsets at Pier 60 Daily Festival, has announced the new Sunset Cinema at Pier 60, which is presented in cooperation with the City of Clearwater Parks and Recreation Department. As a mother of four, she is thrilled with this opportunity for a different form of free family entertainment on the beach, and thinks it's great that locals and visitors of all ages will have something new to do in the evening. Further, she's optimistic that the program will be so well received that it can ultimately be continued the year-round. For now, following sunset on summer weekends, other than this 4th of July holiday weekend, a different film will be shown each Friday and Saturday. Rusty Pearl, a local supplier of frozen sorbet, developed the program, which debuted earlier this month. Even without formal advertising, about 250 viewers, residents, and tourists, reportedly took advantage of the family-friendly presentations last weekend. Ms. Chandler said only rain and high winds would result in cancellation of the screening, and that weather radar will be closely monitored throughout the evening. Guests may want to bring something to sit on, such as a beach towel, blanket or a low lawn chair, or simply take advantage of the concrete "bench" surrounding the playground. Each family-rated movie will begin about 8:45 p.m. "Rudy" (PG) will be shown on July 9th, followed by "The Blind Side" (PG-13) on July 10th. A full schedule of featured films is posted at the Pier 60 concession stand and the Welcome Center or is available at (727) 449-1036, as well as online at www.SunsetsatPier60.com.
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