[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 84 (Monday, June 8, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1338]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      CENTENNIAL OF WILDEY THEATER

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                           HON. JOHN SHIMKUS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 8, 2009

  Mr. SHIMKUS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 
centennial of an important landmark in Edwardsville, Illinois.
  The Wildey Theater first opened its doors in 1909 at 250-254 Main 
Street in Edwardsville. Originally a three-story opera house and 
meeting hall, the Wildey soon began hosting silent films and live 
productions. In 1927 it presented ``The Jazz Singer,'' the first motion 
picture to include sound.
  For the next few decades, the Wildey Theater was the most popular 
location for entertainment in Edwardsville. Unfortunately, in 1998 the 
Wildey could no longer stay at it and was forced to close its doors. 
The City of Edwardsville purchased the building and began renovating 
the historic theater. With the benevolent actions from the citizens of 
Edwardsville the Wildey is being restored to its earlier grandeur. Last 
month, it celebrated its 100th birthday with an outdoor showing of 
``The Wizard of Oz.''
  I want to congratulate Alderman Rich Walker, chairman of the Wildey 
Theater's development committee, and the citizens of Edwardsville who 
have put countless hours and made generous contributions to this 
historic landmark. I look forward to visiting a restored Wildey Theater 
as it begins its second century as a gathering place in Edwardsville.

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