Movie buffs take stand

A group of local people have formed an independent theater recovery project to help save community theaters in danger of closing — like the one in Colusa.

Organizers of the project say theaters are a "use it or lose it" business, and they want to finds ways to keep them open.

"We have to generate more support for theaters," said Paul Totman, of Colusa. "It's not just our theater that may close, but many others in small communities."

Totman, whose brother Steve Totman founded the project, said local supporters of small theaters are in the process of forming a non-profit organization to help ensure centers for entertainment remain viable in all small communities.

Steve Totman is also a member of the Colusa County Film Commission, which was organized to inspire those in the film industry to use Colusa County for set locations.

Paul Totman said the Independent Movie House Recovery Project hopes to raise support for the Colusa Theater — something they consider a much-needed cultural and social focal point for the community — by raising money to offset expenses or by increasing attendance to the th ater by hosting sponsored events.

The Recovery project will host a Classic Cartoon Carnival at the Colusa Theater from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. this Saturday.

It is the first event for the organization, Totman said.

"So bring the kids, grab a big bag of popcorn and a bucket of soda, and sit back for a rollicking morning of classic cartoons the way they're meant to be seen - on the big screen," Totman said. "You will laugh until your sides ache. You won't remember the last time you had this much fun with the whole family."

Totman said the Independent Movie House Recovery Project exists to keep a shared dream alive.

For more information visit www.moviehouse911.org.