The long-anticipated fund-raising blitz for the Paramount Theatre begins Thursday.

An open house will be held 5-7 p.m.

with the formal press announcement at 6:15 p.m. Thursday.

Honorary fund-raising campaign chairperson, Austin mayor Bonnie Rietz and the Rev. Beth Johnson will announce details fo the effort at a press conference beginning 6:15 p.m. Thursday at the Paramount Theatre.

Built in 1929 the historic movie palace is in the process of being restored by volunteers.

Listed on the National register of Historical Places the building has been the beneficiary of over $600,000 contributed by hundreds of donors.

Earlier this year, the city of Austin and Mower County each contributed $50,000 to kick off the $1 million campaign

The contributions enabled the restoration committee to apply for a $300,000 grant to expand the theater, so 40 percent of the campaign goal is raised.

The theater has also benefited from contributions such as the $50,000 donated by Virginia Wilder, which enabled construction of a marquee.

Among the fund-raising plans are a Wall of Fame for $1,000 contributions or more and having names inscribed on seats for contributions of $500 or more

In addition, stars on the ceiling get lit for contributions of $200.

All contributions by June 30 will be recognized at the September 7 celebration being planned by Mike Veldman, Kaye Perry and Joanne Stevens

On June 14, the Paramount Theater will host the SPAM jam event

"Let's Swing."

The restoration committee welcomes the contributions of time and labor always

For more information, call Scott Anderson, theater manager, at 433-0934 or Milly Burroughs, membership coordinator, at 433-1737.

The public is invited to attend the Thursday night open house activities and learn about the final fund drive for the much beloved theater building in Austin.