“We will call numbers for one blackout game at the very end,” Groth said. “The prize will be $100, and if it doesn’t go, players will have another chance on Saturday night. The amount will be doubled.”
Around that same time, Ellendale United Methodist Church will be hosting the Ellendale Has Talent contest.
“Anyone that has a favorite talent, whether it’s singing, playing something musical, telling jokes or juggling, 7 p.m. is the time to shine.”
Attendees who want to shake a leg can do so from 8-12 p.m. at the street dance. You won’t want to miss Urban Myth, he says.
“Then, at 9:30, the firemen are hosting an outdoor movie by the community building,” he said.
The fun keeps coming Saturday. Early risers will get first dibs on both farmer’s market and Lions Club used-a-bit treasure sale items.
“If you would like to donate things for either, I’m sure they would appreciate that,” he said. “At 8 o’clock, the fire department will be serving breakfast burritos down at the car show site.”
At 9 a.m., another new event hits center stage, and according to Sportsmen’s Club President Cyndi Bartness, it will be a ball-flying good time.
“The home run derby is for kids 14 and under,” Bartness said. “Second grade and under will bat from a tee. Third grade and up will have a pitching machine. The proceeds will help support the summer recreation program.”
The Lions Club will set up shop on 2nd street with their food wagon. Stop by between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. for a chance to grab a quick bite.
“For four hours, kids can go the Fun Zone and win prizes,” he said. “The bean bag tournament is new this year. Registration starts at 11:30 at the liquor store. First place wins $100.”
Parade lovers should take a seat near Main Street’s curb a little before 4 p.m. Also keep your eyes peeled for James Thompson, a sixth-year resident at Whispering Oaks.
“I’m honored to ride in the parade as the grand marshal,” Thompson said. “My two great granddaughters Sophia and Sierra and granddaughter Kristine are riding with me too.”
As a matter of fact, Bartness knows Thompson better than some. For many years, they called each other neighbor.
“James at age 90 has been a lifetime resident of the Ellendale community,” Bartness said. “He has built many homes in the city of Ellendale including the Municipal Liquor store, and the Methodist parsonage. So many people in this area have such fond memories of this wonderful man known as Grandpa James.”
Whispering Oaks Director Maryann Schlaak added, “He’s not one to be showy about his talents. James is an all-around wonderful family man. He’s very sensitive and compassionate.”
Just as soon as the last float passes by, it’s time for the turtle races to begin. You’ll want to snatch a first-row seat by the bank for this one.
“Kids don’t necessarily think of turtles racing,” Bartness said. “Each participant will stand with their turtle in the center circle. When the kids hear go, they will place the turtle on the ground and the first turtle to reach the outside ring wins.”
From 5-7 p.m., Groth invites you to the “all important” Ellendale Commercial Club pork chop supper. It’s a good meal and a good deal, he says.
“Just before that is the firemen’s pedal tractor pull by the community center at 4 o’clock,” he said. “The firemen’s youth dance is usually a pretty big hit too. They have a DJ and away they go.”
At that time, the adult cross section can head on over to the liquor store for another street dance. The sportsmen’s club will provide food at this time.
“Then, on Sunday morning, the Lions Club will serve their pancake breakfast, Vibrant Life will have their outdoor worship service, and soon after, the tractor pull will take place,” said Groth.
Of course, Ellendale residents and visitors alike are invited to attend. You won’t want to miss it!
“The sportsmen's club has always been involved with Ellendale Days (the past 20) years: the parade, tug of war contest, bed races, rodeos and the kiss the pig contest,” Bartness said. “We are always trying to find something different to bring to the festivities. It’s a great time to get together with friends and neighbors that you might not see much during the rest of the year.”
