Ritz Theatre fundraiser April 12

The Ralston Grange, located 10 miles south of Ritzville on Highway 261, is sponsoring another fundraiser to help in the renovation of the Ritz Theatre in Ritzville. Last year, the Ralston Grange sponsored a variety show, and a number of Odessa citizens turned out for it and were very supportive, said Randy Roth of the Ralston Grange.

All proceeds from the event go to the fund set up by the Ritzville Downtown Development Association for renovation of the theater.

On Saturday, April 12, at the Ralston Grange hall, the doors will open at 4 p.m., with food available prepared and sold by the Ralston Junior Grange and the Ralston Rangers 4-H Club. Bingo starts at 5 p.m. and continues until 7 p.m. and is open for all ages. The cost is $1/card or game, with cash prizes awarded to the winners.

Throughout the evening there will be special bingo games where the prizes will be donated items from area individuals and businesses. The cost of those games may be more depending on the prize value.

Various area businesses and individuals have donated materials and time to refurbishing the theater building over the past several months. A new stage has been installed in front of the movie screen so that live performances can also be held there. Seats have been re-upholstered, wiring has been updated, and painting has been done, nearly all through volunteer efforts.

The remaining largest expense prior to reopening the theater involves the purchase of the digital projector needed for showing current, first-run films.