A big part of what we’re all about here at Little Lake County is celebrating and supporting all things local. Eat local and shop local are a few of the buzz words you’ll read here regularly, but it is about more than just patronizing a mom n’ pop shop every once in a while; it’s an investment in your community and cultivating the type of neighborhood you want to live in.
You don’t have to be like me, a lifelong resident who’s emotionally tied to my community, to understand the importance of thriving downtowns. Even if you’re a recent transplant or temporary resident, a robust local economy benefits you, too. From recreation opportunities, dining and entertainment, to increased tax revenue to improve our roads and schools, the importance of a strong local economy cannot be emphasized enough.
Until July 31st, Lake County residents, especially those residing close to Antioch, have the opportunity to make a real investment in the community and preserve a piece of local history. The 95-year-old Antioch Theatre is about to shutter permanently, and local investor Tim Downey has launched a comprehensive investment and fundraising campaign to save it. In addition to investments from the Village of Antioch and corporate partners already secured, he is seeking contributions from the community to raise the final $65,000 needed to complete the $750,000 renovation and digital conversion.
Whether you can contribute $5 or $500, I urge you to visit the Kickstarter campaign’s website to watch the short film and read the project’s details. There are rewards for contributions at certain price-points and other donor options like sidewalk stars. (Please note that if you contribute via the Kickstarter website, the money will not be deducted from your account unless the total goal is met and the project goes through.)
Most Antioch area residents have probably heard about the efforts to save the theatre; it has been all over the local news and Facebook. With less than a month to go, they have raised about $18,000 towards the last $65,000 needed. It is time for residents to step up and invest in our community! As a mother of young kids, a small town theatre is something I want to keep in my town. For now, the convenience and savings of a local theatre are great, and as I look to the future, I would much rather my teens be visiting Main Street in my town than a monster movie complex at a mall miles away. I’m told that they plan to run family-friendly and kids’ movie specials if re-opened, too. Exactly what we like here at LLC! Please take a moment to read through their plans and consider supporting the Antioch Theatre.
Leave a Reply