The Ellendale Opera House will host a public reception, Saturday, May 23 to recognize long-time community and arts advocate and former O.P.E.R.A., Inc. board member Ken Schmierer, who died last December.

The reception will be held after the memorial service at the Presbyterian United Methodist Church in Ellendale.

Ken grew up in Ellendale and returned to town in 2004 after a career in corporate IT work in Texas.

He bought a home on Main Street and began a 25-year period promoting the arts and humanities in a variety of official and unofficial roles, including serving on the Ellendale Area Arts Council, the O.P.E.R.A. Board of Directors, the Prince of Peace Care Center and Ellendale Tourism Board.

He organized the Ellendale "Walk of Fame" program, which is held every five years to recognize individuals who have contributed to the betterment of the community and society.

Along with his many community activities related to the arts, Ken promoted the arts and humanities statewide through his service on the North Dakota Humanities Council and became a well-recognized photographer with a focus on his hometown places and people.

At the reception, the Lobby and Gallery exhibit space will be renamed the "Kenneth C. Schmierer Gallery" and an exhibit of his photographs will be unveiled.

Lunch and refreshments will be served from noon to 1 p.m. There is no charge.

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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.

The Ellendale Opera House and its services are available to all persons without discrimination as to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or physical or mental disability. O.P.E.R.A., Inc. is an equal opportunity provider.