Spring Meeting Summary - Lots of Upcoming Activities
We had a great turnout at the recent spring member meeting - one of two all-member meetings each year. Here are some highlights and information on upcoming events.
OPAL GALA
Financial results from the 2011 Gala are in. Profit was $14,300. Of that, $10,000 was distributed to five beneficiary organizations. This was a first for the Gala proceeds. Looking ahead to next year’s event, the date is now set. Mark your calendar for the 2012 OPAL Gala: Saturday, November 3. We once again will be naming beneficiaries. Suggestions can be sent to info@opalga.org or passed on to any board member.
Brian Findley Founders Award
Cheryl Haugh was the recipient of this year’s award, recognizing long-term service to OPALGA. Cheryl is a long-time member and has “served two tours of duty” as the female co-chair. In 2009 she was part of a task force set up to address major financial issues facing the group. Following that, she stepped forward to fill a co-chair vacancy at a time when the future of the organization was in limbo and officers and board members were called on to take over many tasks that had previously been handled by paid staff. Thanks for all your hard work, Cheryl!
Donut Day - June 23It was announced that OPALGA will once again be one of the groups helping to make and sell donuts at the Oak Park Farmer’s Market. Besides sharing in the proceeds from sales, “Donut Day” is a great volunteer opportunity. Upwards of 40 to 50 people are needed to fill multiple shifts. People are needed in the kitchen, serving tables, and for clean-up. It’s always great fun...and a great way to meet other OPALGA members. For more information, email info@opalga.org.
Fourth of July Parade
OPALGA is returning to the Oak Park Fourth of July parade...and returning with a bang. We have arranged to bring in the Lakeside Pride Marching Band. Partial funding to bring in the band is being provided the Oak Park Community Relations Commission. But we are also organizing a garage sale as a fundraiser. The garage sale will be held on Saturday, May 19. So go through your homes and storage rooms and see if you have fabulous things that you are not using and don’t really want to continue storing (no clothes, no computers, please). Bring any and all items on Friday, May 18 any time between 3 PM and 9 PM to 1044 S. Gunderson, Oak Park. If you’re interested in helping to price items that night or to work at the sale on Saturday, email info@opalga.org. And then plan to join us on the Fourth to march in the parade!
More plans
In addition to the already scheduled activities, several other potential activities were discussed at the meeting. These include the possibility of producing the play “8” early next year ("8" is the story of the court battle to overturn proposition 8 in California), a series of women’s dances at local venues, and a family picnic this summer or fall. Again, if you are interested in helping to make any of these events happen, let us know. info@opalga.org.