O.P.E.R.A., Inc. has received nearly $1,500 in donations to the matching campaign to celebrate long-time Opera House advocate Jeanette Robb-Ruenz on her 80th birthday.

Anonymous supporters have pledged to match campaign contributions up to $25,000. All funds would go toward renovation of the Opera House storefronts.

In order to qualify for the dollar-for-dollar match, contributions need to be made between now and July 20.

You can make a donation by check or online.

To make a cash contribution, simple mail your check to O.P.E.R.A., Inc., P.O. Box 334, Ellendale ND 58436.

Or, go to www.ellendaleoperahouse.com and click on the “DONATE” link to make a contribution online.

Native American Keith Bear will perform June 27 at 6:30 p.m. at South Park for Ellendale Area Arts Council’s “ Music in the Park."

The program – Music and Stories of the Earth and Her People – Keith includes songs performed on a traditional Native American flute and stories that will appeal to all those living in the Great Plains. 

Bear is a world-renowned Mandan-Hidatsa storyteller and musician from the Three Affiliated Tribes at Fort Berthold, ND.  

He has presented at Lewis and Clark Bicentennial events throughout the United States, including Kennedy Center in New York City, the Smithsonian in Washington, DC, and has performed in Europe for eager audiences. 

This will be a family event. A food truck will be at the park for your convenience.

Bring a lawn chair.

Event sponsors are the Ellendale Area Arts Council, Ellendale Area Community Foundation and the Historic Ellendale Opera House.

The Ellendale Area Arts Council silent art and wreath auction will end at noon Dec. 19.

More photos will be posted on Lana Schlecht's Facebook page, where you can message her to bid on the items. Or, email your bids to Ken S. at: kschm1965@drtel.net