Garner plans outdoor screening of 'ET'

It's time to phone home! Or, at the very least, head over to the lawn of the Garner Performing Arts Center, which will offer a free screening of "ET the Extra-Terrestrial" this week.

The movie, rated PG, is set for 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday, at the center, 742 W. Garner Rd. in Garner. There will be food from food trucks and craft brews for purchase.

The center offers a slate of performances and events.

They include Carnaval Latino, which is 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday. The free event includes live music, food, dance, arts and crafts and activities for kids.

On Sept. 22, the center will screen another 80s classic - "Ferris Bueller's Day Off."

And the 80s theme continues into October for an Oct. 14 performance called "Bodyology," featuring none other than Slim Goodbody, the character that has entertained kids for more than 40 years, appeared on Captain Kangaroo in the late 1970s and had his own show on PBS in the 1980s. His focus is on fitness, hygiene and nutrition. (And, yes, this child of the 80s is pretty excited to be reminded of this childhood fave). Sadly, the original Slim Goodbody won't be in Garner - but he's sending somebody who continues to portray the character.