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IRON MOUNTAIN -- For several years, Iron Mountain has struggled to keep some of its best artists and performers local.  One of the reasons is the lack of a consistent venue for performances.

That's where the "Friends of the Braumart" come in to the picture.

"There have been so many losses of historical buildings in the area, and we wanted to put a stop to that because the building is basically in good condition," said Friends of the Braumart Treasurer Barbara Kramer.  "We felt we had a real opportunity here."

The Friends of the Braumart are working to restore the historical Braumart Theater which was once a main attraction in Iron Mountain.  The goal is to make it a main attraction once again.

"It's just such a beautiful building and people remember going there and being there," said Devona, a member of the group.  "I think it could create a lot of enthusiasm in the community, not just for people who went to the Braumart back in the day, but also for our young people."

The Friends of the Braumart are working to raise funds through grants and fund-raisers to continue the project.

Restoring the Braumart Theater is about more than bringing in arts and cultural events to the area.  The project could provide a boost for Iron Mountain's economy.

"People don't understand the value of arts and culture in an area until the economic impact begins to be felt," Kramer said.  "If you put $5,000 into the community in terms of arts, you return about $3 per dollar invested."

The future appears bright for this one-time community centerpiece.