It Was a Good Time
On Tuesday, May 22, the OPALGA Board of Directors hosted their annual Membership Recognition Reception at Holley Court Terrace in Oak Park. Approximately 50 OPALGA members were treated to appetizers, desserts, beverages, and a gorgeous, summer-like evening on the top-floor terrace with panoramic views of the Chicago skyline.
The theme for the reception was “Looking Back and Moving Forward, “ and its purpose was to celebrate OPALGA’s 18th anniversary of empowering the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community of the Oak Park area. The reception also served as an opportunity to thank OPALGA members for their support of our organization.
The program began with welcoming remarks from Board Co-Chairs Brad Bartels and Cheryl Haugh. Susan Anderson gave a preview of the OPAL Gala 2007, and Youth Program Director Susan Abbott updated attendees on youth activities and events.
The highlight of the reception was the presentation of the 2006 Carol Zientek Award for Distinguished Service and the Brian Findlay Award for Outstanding and Long-Term Commitment. Public Policy Chair Alan Amato told attendees about Carol and Brian and why these awards are named for them. The awards were presented by Brad and Cheryl, and this year’s honorees were:
For the Carol Zientek Award for Distinguished Service:
• Programming Committee Chair Laura Drumm, for her strong and solid leadership of the programming committee. From the potlucks and coffeehouses to the book club, holiday party, drag show, picnic, home tour, and many other events, Laura and the committee have proved time and time again that they know how to 1) get things done and 2) keep us very, very busy.
• Board Treasurer Mike Cochran, for his work to develop better accounting measures for the organization, including hiring an accountant, establishing policy guidelines, and improving financial reporting. Mike was also co-chair of the 2006 OPAL Gala, which was our most financially successful Gala to date.
• Board Member-at-Large JoAnn Ziebarth, for her invaluable work as the editor of Empower and for her willingness to take on other tasks. JoAnn has repeatedly proved that whatever project she takes on, it will be done and it will be done well.
For the Brian Findlay Award for Outstanding and Long-Term Commitment:
• Board Member-at-Large Liz Stallone. Liz is serving her second term on the OPALGA Board of Directors, and she is an active and tireless volunteer. She also served as co-chair of the 2005 and 2006 OPAL Galas, both of which were very successful. Liz, her partner Nancy Sexton, and their business, Carnegie Printers, have also generously donated design and printing services to the organization.
The OPALGA Board of Directors and the membership heartily congratulate this year’s award winners, and we encourage all OPALGA members to keep in mind for nomination for next year those members who demonstrate service and commitment.
