Screening of movie 'The Christmas Box' set for Saturday

The Living Memorial Gardens Angel of Hope organization will hold a free screening of the movie "The Christmas Box" on Saturday, Dec. 6 at 2 p.m.

The Christmas Box is a Hallmark movie inspired by a book written by Richard Paul Evans. The special viewing goes hand in hand with the Dec. 6 Annual Day of Remembrance, honored each year at all of the Christmas Box angels around the globe.

"Throughout the world, wherever there's an angel such as this one in Living Memorial Gardens, they hold a memorial," coordinator Rita Anest said. "Because it's so cold here, and it's usually snowing, we're going to try to doing the movie instead. This is the first year the event has fallen on a Saturday, which allows us to do this."

Admission is free with a donation of two canned goods. Hams and turkeys will also be accepted and donated to the local Salvation Army. Proceeds will go to local families who are in need of assistance for the holidays.

"This event is for families, and it's a really good wholesome Christmas movie," Anest said. "Children must be accompanied by adults. We hope people will come out and bring kids so they can kickoff their Christmas season. It's geared for people who have known loss. We hope to make this an annual event."

The Living Memorial Gardens Angel of Hope organization will also give participants a chance at gifts and prizes. Paperback copies of the original printing of "The Christmas Box" will be given to the first 50 adults who arrive.

Immediately after the screening of the movie, there will be a drawing for two hard-bound copies of the children's book, "The Dance"(autographed by Richard Paul Evans), music CDs and "HOPE" Christmas items. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

"This movie is based on the book that this whole project is based upon," Anest said. "It reminds all of us the true meaning of Christmas."