From left, Kelly Jantzen (Traer Theatre Board Treasurer), Patty Calderwood (Ripley UCC member), Madonna Madorin (Traer Theatre Manager), and Jeff Jacobs (Traer Theatre Board President) pictured recently inside the Traer Theatre concession area. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

TRAER – Ripley United Church of Christ (RUCC), located at 400 S. Main Street in Traer, has made a generous donation to the Traer Theatre following its volunteer service at the 2025 Tama County Fair.

A group of RUCC members volunteered at the Fair Food Stand which is staffed entirely by volunteers. Thanks to strong community support and steady business, workers earn a small stipend for their service. This year, Ripley’s volunteers chose to contribute those funds directly to the Traer Theater in support of its continued operation.

“Ripley members were glad to volunteer and serve the families participating in and enjoying the Fair, and we are doubly pleased to donate those funds back to our community theater,” the church shared. “We all love to have the theatre here as an option, and it takes both our patronage and our support to make that happen.”

Church member Patty Calderwood expressed what the experience meant to the group.

“It’s a great feeling to show up with your church family and help at the fair. You get to see all the kids and their families learning, working, and enjoying time together. Then it’s an even better feeling to turn around and donate those funds back to our community for the benefit of those same families and kids!” she said.

RUCC describes itself as a mission-centered church where everyone is welcome. The congregation prides itself on providing a progressive, supportive, and loving church home for local families. Their mission emphasizes preparing members to serve others through worship, prayer, fellowship, Christian education, and dedicated support of the broader community.

The church holds Sunday worship at 9 a.m., followed by fellowship and refreshments. More information about Ripley UCC can be found at ripleyucc.org or on Facebook.

The Traer Theatre continues to be a valued community asset, providing affordable entertainment for families throughout the area. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $3, and the Theatre accepts cash or card. Community members are encouraged to attend a show or consider making a contribution to support the theater’s ongoing operations.

Tax-deductible donations may be directed to:

Traer Community Foundation

c/o Farmers Savings Bank & Trust – Traer

PO Box 435

Traer, IA 50675