O.P.E.R.A., Inc. fund drive to build on 2023 restoration success; window sponsorships available

For immediate release: Friday, June 14, 2024

After completing its largest restoration project ever last year, Ellendale Opera House supporters are now seeking to raise $75,000 toward renovation of the Main Street storefronts for expanded commuinity use.

Last year, O.P.E.R.A., Inc. – the non-profit organization that owns and operates the opera house –completed a major restoration of the west wall and foundation of the 115-year-old landmark. 

Electrical service to the building also was upgraded and the Main Street faÇade of the building cleaned and restored. 

This year's Building on Success fund drive offers donors the opportunity to help fund restoration of the building's eighteen Main Street windows.

Old plywood coverings of the windows were removed last year when the faÇade was cleaned and  material not original to the storefronts removed. 

By being a sponsor/donor, the individual would have his/her name (or a memorial dedication for a family member) permanently affixed to a window. The donation also would be recognized with an engraved plaque in the opera house gallery.

Full sponsorship for a window restoration is $5,000; half sponsorships ($2,500 donation) of a window restoration also is available.

Other large naming/sponsorships opportunities for restoration of other parts of the building are available. For details, contact Justin at 701-535-0347.

This year's fund drive options/incentives include:

• “Acres for O.P.E.R.A." to encourage farm owners to donate a portion of their crop to the non-profit organization. Such direct grain donations can provide tax benefits. (Farm owners should consult a tax professional to determine if the program would benefit them.)

• Donors contributing more than $300 between now and December 31 will receive a newly designed O.P.E.R.A. coffee mug. 

To contribute to the Building on Success, mail your donation to O.P.E.R.A., Inc. at P.O. Box 334, Ellendale, ND 58436, or donate online at: www.ellendaleoperahouse.com.

O.P.E.R.A. – Organization of People in Ellendale for Restoration of the Arts – was formed in 1992 to save the Main Street landmark from the wrecking ball. Because O.P.E.R.A. is a charitable non-profit organization, all donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

All donors also will have their names listed on a display in the Opera House Lobby & Gallery.

For additional information, call 701-535-0347 or email: jmmeid@hotmail.com.

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