Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra to Host Annual “Divas Who Dish” Event
The Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra Board invites the public to attend the favorite annual event “Divas Who Dish”, which will be held at Knights of Columbus Hall on April 12, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.
The event is “a little friendly competition,” shares event organizer Maggie Morrissey, “as friends cook, bake, and grill to benefit the Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra. It’s a fun evening filled with food, games, and auction items (both live and silent).”
Local chefs will prepare servings of their favorite recipe in one of the following categories: Pre-Dining, Entree, or Dessert. Divas will be awarded medals for the top entry in each category.
Ticket holders can sample dishes all evening and vote for the People’s Choice winner. Professional judges will score each entry based on taste, originality, and presentation. All guests can play “Heads or Tails” with a chance of winning a $50 gas card and participating in the Wine Pull, where they are guaranteed to go home with a quality bottle of wine!
Included in the list of Divas this year is Shannon Baker, one of last year‘s winners. In 2024 she was assisted by her mother Norma, who has decided this year to compete against her! We’re hoping for more fun peculiarities during this year‘s competition. Watch the symphony Facebook page for information on more divas.
Another great way to take something home with you that evening–along with supporting the organization–is to bid on one or more silent auction items. A wide array of silent auction items have been contributed by local businesses, board members, and friends of the orchestra. The Art Corner features works by local artists, as well as not-to-be-missed antiques, art, and décor pieces looking for a new home. Live auction items set to be included are Party on the Prairie (an evening of dining with your friends in a beautiful, secluded outdoor setting), “Ride a Fire Truck to School” (this one’s for the kids), and a gorgeous patio set! More items will be announced and featured that evening.
Special thanks to all our Divas and their sponsors and assistants; Event judges Heather Nelson, Jesse Juran and Mary Kivlahan; Auctioneer Todd Carroll; the Knights of Columbus for hosting, and to Dr. Brian Quinn for his generous contribution to make this event possible. All profits from this event go to fund the presentation of concerts and youth concerts for the Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra organization.
Tickets can be purchased for $25 in advance from a board member and at Richwell Carpet, or purchase at the door for $30; kids under 12 are just $7.50! Doors are open from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM; judging begins at 5:30 PM.
