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(NewsDakota.com) An institution in the city of Oakes for more than 80 years is in danger of shutting down due to the changes of technology, and a group has started a campaign to keep the only movie theatre in Oakes from dissolving.

The “Save The Grand” initiative is attempting to raise $90,000 in order to purchase a digital projector and sound system. A majority of Hollywood studios no longer send out 35 millimeter feature film reels to theaters due to cost savings, and the demand by moviegoers for clearer pictures and sharper sound. Studios now send out digital disks, and The Grand does not have the capabilities to play such movies. 

In the few months since raising funds began, $30,000 has been donated. However it will take another $15,000 for a total of $45,000 to put an order and a down payment on the equipment. 75 percent of the total; $67,500 must be raised once the equipment arrives. 

Several community movie houses in Southeastern North Dakota have closed down; including LaMoure, Lisbon and Valley City. 

Any donations made are tax deductible, and can be dropped off at Oakes City Hall. Should the fundraiser not reach its goal, the money will go towards another community project, or given back to the donors.

One of the members of the group Gary Schnell sat down on KDDR’s Midweek Focus to answer questions about the future of the theatre and the fundraising efforts.

For more information, contact April Haring at 710-0879.