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"Restore the Avery"
Sitting on the corner of 495 State Street is a distinguised building with character beyone belief. It has been the home of a pharmacy for the last 30 years, once empty the demolition of 70's paneling revealed beautiful art deco walls with murals portraying pictures of the times; farming and industry. The front facade removal revealed a building that had been built to stand the test of time along with integrity to carry through generations. It is a goal of the committee to bring the "old pharmacy" back to it's original purpose, a movie theatre. The building at 495 State Street was built in the winter of 1930, and considered to be one of the "finest theatres in the Northwest". It was comparable to the theatres housed in the Twin Cities and Des Moines, making Garner's theatre very impressive for it's time. Memories loom in the building that is now closed to the public. But, when you walk thru those doors you can envision the finished project, the audio is crisp and clear, the smell of fresh popcorn (of which was once sold for 1 penny a bag) the fizz of the soda, the excitement is intoxicating. Can you see it? Children squirming in their seats...waiting, waiting, waiting for the movie to begin. Parents holding hands as their children can sit in the front row and they do not have to worry about their young being alone. Teenagers not having to drive out of town on the snow covered roads for something to do on weekend or week night for that matter. It can all be a reality, and if any town can accomplish this, it is the town of Garner. The residents here in Garner all appreciate the amenities that are offered to all generations. The theatre would benefit all ages! The committee members are now in the process of negotiations to buy the building from the current building owner. Committee members are also working with cinema experts, architects, contractors and the state historical society. Much research is being done, and we as a committee hope to have the answers to any question the public may have of us. Fundraising has begun, and the theatre project is a dream we want to see become a reality!
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