Cathy Wagner prepares some culinary delights baskets in the Olympic Theatre Arts Center’s Gathering Hall. (Photo courtesy of Olympic Theatre Arts Center)

Cathy Wagner prepares some culinary delights baskets in the Olympic Theatre Arts Center’s Gathering Hall. (Photo courtesy of Olympic Theatre Arts Center)

Olympic Theatre Arts partners with local businesses for Valentine’s Day

SEQUIM — Olympic Theatre Arts is collaborating with local businesses for the Valentine’s Day holiday.

The nonprofit is creating five gift baskets for Valentine’s Day both to raffle as a fundraiser as well as to draw attention back to what local businesses have to offer — particularly in the theme of “spoiling yourself.”

Local businesses have responded “enthusiastically and generously” by donating contents to the total of more than $2,300, OTA representatives said recently.

Raffle tickets are $5 each and may be purchased online at OlympicTheatreArts.org or by dropping by the theatre between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, where guests can check out the baskets first-hand while being socially distanced.

The drawing for these baskets will be Wednesday; call OTA at 360-683-7326 for more information.

Each basket has its own theme, highlighting a particular range of services or products local businesses are ready to provide:

• “Culinary Delights!” — a selection of tasty edibles contributed by Sunny Farms, Sequim Grocery Outlet, Purple Haze Lavender, Essence Coffee Roasters, Sequim QFC and Two Spot Bakery.

• “Restaurant Roundup!” is a take-in or dine-out package with certificates from Alder Wood Bistro, Koto Teriyaki & Sushi, The Mariner Cafe, David’s Family Taqueria, Sequim Bento Teriyaki, Adagio Bean & Leaf, Sequim Black Bear Diner, Dynasty Chinese Restaurant, Galare Thai, Nourish and the Grab N Go Market & Deli.

• “Spa Day!” includes a massage session and catered lunch from Sanctuary Day Spa.

• “Pamper Me!” is a basket full of “feel good” experiences from Virginia Jefferson Massage, West Bay Chiropractic & Massage, Sanctuary Day Spa, Morning Star Salon, Skin Envy and Bello Nails.

• “Everyone Can Be An Artist!” has items to help one dive into some relaxing art sessions with materials curated by local art instructor BZ Zabora.

“We love this type of creative community partnership,” said Jessica Schuenemann of Alder Wood Bistro. “Who doesn’t want to get spoiled? And you get to do good at the same time. Give love, get love. OTA has provided a fantastic way to spice up your Valentine’s Day.”

Said project co-chair Susan Molin, “The pandemic has hit businesses hard … and folks need reasons to venture out safely. So we thought it would be good to remind folks of all the great, safe and fun opportunities we have locally.

“Businesses need access to inexpensive, well-targeted advertising. OTA has a supporter base of over 3,000 households who are very community minded. So we took a rather straightforward (and fun) fundraiser and are turning it into a solid community awareness campaign.”

OTA marketing manager Pete Griffin noted, “Despite supply shortages, distancing mandates and many other difficulties, our local businesses are here to support and serve our community. They need and deserve our patronage if we are to see our community through.”

Project co-chair Cathy Wagner added, “I am surprised and pleased with the generosity of this community to help each other in this challenging time for small business and entertainment. The winners of the raffle will be very happy indeed.”

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