OPAL Will Honor Four Lifetime Members at Gala

Michael Sky and Penny Sharp Sky were “relentless workers” when they joined with Peter Fisher in the late 1980’s to establish OPAL. Penny represents Opal Commons on OPAL’s board of trustees. Michael died this spring after a short illness.

Marilyn Anderson, Peter Fisher, Penny Sharp Sky and Michael Sky will be honored as the first lifetime and charter lifetime members of OPAL Community Land Trust on October 1, at an annual benefit dinner and gala.

“We welcome all members of the community to attend the gala, to support the honorees in receiving well-deserved accolades. They’re all long-time islanders, who have had a great influence on shaping the Orcas community,” said Helen Bee, chair of the event.

“OPAL is certainly a significant part of that story,” explained Helen. “Peter, Michael and Penny embraced the concept of community land trusts, laid the foundation, created the non-profit that would be known as OPAL Community Land Trust, and recognized the value and significance of affordable housing here. Marilyn was an early supporter who believed in the importance of the dream of home ownership.” Helen noted that gala attendees are likely to learn something new about each of the individuals being recognized.

Peter Fisher was spurred to action to create OPAL when he thought about losing “sacred land and vital people” in the 1980’s. Marilyn Anderson believes that “home ownership is something to be sought after and cherished”. She was an early supporter and member of the organization.

The event will be held on Saturday, October 1, at Orcas Center. Tickets are $125 per person and can be reserved by calling the OPAL office at 376-3191. Helen added, “If you know any of those being honored, this is a wonderful way to demonstrate your support for them, as well as for OPAL.”

The evening will feature a gourmet dinner prepared by Lisa Nakamura of Allium, followed by the much-loved dessert rush, as well as a paddle raise in support of OPAL. The only auction component is this year’s online auction, which ends Sunday, September 25. Helen added, “If you haven’t visited www.biddingforgood.com/opalauction yet, you should! There are some wonderful items still available for your bidding enjoyment.”

OPAL stands for “Of People And Land,” representing a commitment to protecting natural resources while providing permanently affordable homes for people who are vital to the Orcas Island community. OPAL continues to accept applications from people who are not able to purchase a home on the open market. For more information, go to: www.opalclt.org.