USO’s Movie in the Park comes to Saipan

For the first time the Tan Siu Lin Foundation, in collaboration with the United Services Organization, is bringing the “Movie in the Park” event to Saipan.

The event, which will be held at the American Memorial Park Amphitheater on July 8 at 6pm, will feature the 2010 animated film Despicable Me.

USO is a private, nonprofit organization that provides morale and recreational services to members of the U.S. military, with programs in 140 centers worldwide.

Since 1941, USO has worked in partnership with the Department of Defense and has provided support and entertainment to U.S. armed forces, relying heavily on private contributions and on funds, goods, and services.

Tan Siu Lin Foundation manager Ed Arriola, Jr. said that, depending on the response of the community and the weather, Despicable Me will be followed by several more movies.

“We’ll have a giant screen set up at the American Memorial Park Amphitheater so the public can enjoy the movie. Tan Siu Lin Foundation is very pleased to bring this event to the island,” he told Saipan Tribune.

According to Arriola, “Movie in the Park” is currently offered in Guam’s Agana’s Skinner Plaza.

“I went to one of these shows in Guam awhile back and was amazed at how much I was enjoying it with my friends,” he said.

Arriola noted that the Tan Siu Lin Foundation is always seeking new ways of showcasing next and exciting events in the region.

“This is also another opportunity for the CNMI community to come out and get together. We’re inviting the entire island to this event. It’s free, it’s a movie, it’s perfect for a date, for the kids, and for the entire family,” he added.

Leigh Graham, USO Guam director, said the USO is very excited to come back to Saipan to present the event with the Tan Siu Lin Foundation.

“This is a unique way of showing our service members, veterans, and their families how much we appreciate them. After all, it’s the families that give so much as well,” she said.

Graham thanked Tan Siu Lin Foundation president Jerry Tan “for reaching out to us and working to help launch this first movie in the park.”

“We’re also bringing great giveaways for the children and promise a truly memorable experience for the entire community,” added Graham.