Around The OPALGA Center
Marie Kuda at The Center
Thanks to Marie Kuda, renowned LGBT historian, for sharing her astounding breadth of knowledge with the women of OPALGA on Wednesday, March 19, in honor of Women’s History Month. The women present were treated to a stream of history that has never been taught to us in any classroom. Marie’s presence is a reminder that we have always been here—it’s just that many of us don’t know it. For those of you who are interested, Marie has donated a copy of The Completely Queer Gay and Lesbian Encyclopedia to The Center, and she has compiled a list for us of “100 Years of Lesbian Writers in Chicago.” She has also generously offered to do a follow-up slide show that will be open to the entire membership. Watch for the date in an upcoming issue of Empower.
HIV Testing Now Available
OPALGA is now able to provide anonymous and confidential HIV testing on site or in the community to anyone who identifies as a gay or transgender male. Testing is free, and appointments can be made by calling our confidential line at 708-386-3463 or by sending e-mail to prism@opalga.org.
Membership Recognition Reception Planned for May 29
Just a reminder that the annual OPALGA Membership Recognition Reception is being planned for May 29. At this informal reception, members will be able to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and beverages while celebrating the 19th anniversary of our organization. The highlight of the reception will be the presentation of the Carol Zientek Award for Distinguished Service and the Brian Findlay Award for Outstanding and Long-Term Commitment. Mark your calendars for Thursday, May 29, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Holley Court Terrace, 1111 Ontario St., Oak Park, IL 60302.
Gay Day at the Farmers’ Market and Village Players Theatre
Don’t forget to set aside, Saturday, June 14, for “Gay Day” in Oak Park.
OPALGA volunteers will begin their (very early) morning by making, serving, and selling donuts with Pilgrim Congregational Church at the Oak Park Farmers’ Market, 460 Lake St., Oak Park. Half of all proceeds will be given back to OPALGA, so this is a great way to raise money for the organization and to have a lot of fun while doing so. To volunteer, please call Susan at 708-386-3463 or send e-mail to prism@opalga.org.
The fun continues Saturday evening with a benefit performance of “The Full Monty” at the Village Players Theatre, 1010 W. Madison St., Oak Park. For only $40 per person, you will be treated to a pre-performance buffet with beer, wine, and soft drinks at 6:30 p.m. followed by the performance at 7:30 p.m. To purchase tickets, call the Village Players Theatre box office at 1-866-764-1010 and tell them you are purchasing tickets for the OPALGA benefit.
The Center Pledges to Help Reduce Bottled Water Waste
The Center is in need of a large Brita® water filtration system that we can keep in the refrigerator. Staff and volunteers go through many bottles of water, and we would like to be able to continue to support our voracious water drinkers while considering the environment. If anyone would like to make such a donation, it would be greatly appreciated! Please call Susan at 708-386-3463 to make arrangements.
