O.P.E.R.A., Inc.'s latest fund drive to raise money for restoration of the historic Ellendale Opera House totaled $73,125, surpassing the "Next Step" fund-raising goal of $50,000.

The fund drive began in May and concluded Friday, Oct. 15 with a public reception and celebration in the Opera House Lobby & Gallery.

O.P.E.R.A. – Organization of People in Ellendale for Restoration of the Arts – is a non-profit organization formed in 1992 to save the 112-year-old building from the wrecking ball.

"We're very thankful to all those who pitched in to help us reach our ambitious fund drive goal," Executive Director Justin Meidinger, said. "The response from our donors was very gratifying and an indication of the growing public support for restoration of the Main Street landmark."