Published: July 26, 2008 10:35 pm      

Palestine offers unique opportunities

We hear it over and again. If we did not know better, we could begin to accept the statement as fact: “There is nothing to do in Palestine.” However, the statement is a falsehood uttered by those who are simply not cognizant of the myriad entertainment venues available in our community. There is, in fact, much to do and see and enjoy in Palestine and the first weekend in August is a grand example.

Classic Movies in Reagan Park is a most unique opportunity to enjoy a great movie and a wonderful evening for the family in the outdoors. Saturday, Aug. 2, Classic Movies in Reagan Park presents “The Awful Truth,” a 1937 film starring Cary Grant, Irene Dunne and Ralph Bellamy. Take the kids and let them play on the park’s playground equipment while you and your spouse relax beneath the summer stars and engulf yourself in a classic film. The movie starts at dusk.

Another First Saturday event we encourage you to attend is Embrace the Arts from 5 to 8 p.m. The art exhibits change monthly and feature a variety of mediums. August’s Embrace the Arts event is planned for three locations: Museum of East Texas Culture, 400 Micheaux; Palestine Public Library, 1101 North Cedar Street; and, Judith Summerville Arts, 213 East Crawford St. (formerly Judi’s Java Joint).

On display at the Museum of East Texas Culture will be the works of Thomas and Jason Willome, a of father and son artist due. Thomas Willome’s works are oil paintings while Jason, the son, will exhibit digital art and oil paintings. Jason earned his Masters of Fine Art from the University of Colorado at Boulder and has worked as an Assistant Professor of Drawing and Painting at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

The Palestine Public Library will feature an exhibit of artwork by fiber artist Toni Smith’s. Smith uses a spinning wheel and loom to create her pieces. The theme of her exhibit is “Everything Old is New Again.” Smith will demonstrate Swedish weaving, a method not widely known. Later in the month, Aug. 19 at 5:30 p.m., Smith will offer an introductory weaving class for adults at the Palestine Public Library.

Judith Summerville Arts is featuring a collection of works by Gay Mohan, Virginia Matlage, Laretha Skinner, Robert West, Carla N. Rawson, Eleanor Jennings Eilenberger, Rusty Davis and John Geans, all talented artists from Palestine. The works feature several mediums but most importantly represent the creative spirit of our community. The opening reception in the gallery is Aug. 2, from 5 to 8 p.m. and is open to the public. The exhibit may be viewed during regular gallery hours Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Clearly, our community has much to offer in entertainment. We encourage you to attend the Classic Movies in Reagan Park and Embrace the Arts Saturday, Aug. 2. Enjoy and delight in all Palestine has to offer.