Stephen Burker, Coplay Borough councilman, leader of the borough’s park and recreation committee and mayoral candidate, was excited about the free movie night July 22.

“It takes me back to when I was a kid. We went to the free movie night at Balliet Stadium and had a lot of fun,” Burker said.

The event was sponsored by the recreation committee and Coplay Sports. Pennsylvania state Rep. Jeanne McNeill, D-133rd, provided the equipment and movie to make the event possible. The movie shown was Disney’s “Raya and the Last Dragon.”

The last free public movie offered in Coplay was more than 50 years ago when these events were held over the summer at what is now called Sammy Balliet Stadium.

Back then, baby boomers were kids, with Coplay having the highest number of kids in its history. Borough officials recognized, at that time, the kids needed things to do beyond Coplay Sports- and Coplay Athletic Club-sponsored activities - hence, the 1960s movie nights.

Burker thanked his team and Coplay Sports for sponsoring the event. Coplay Sports set up a popcorn and candy stand. McNeill also received accolades for providing the movie and equipment setup for all to enjoy.