They say the neon lights are bright on Broadway, and Turlock residents will soon be able to see if that sentiment holds true while donating to a charitable cause. The inaugural Divas on Broadway event is set to celebrate the city’s most influential women through an afternoon full of empowerment, complete with a luncheon and fashion show.

“We wanted to host an event that honors and recognizes women in our town who have made an impact in our community,” said event chairperson Lana Rojas Casey, who also serves on the Salvation Army Advisory Board.

The luncheon, which will be catered by The Udder Place, will feature both a raffle and live auction, with all proceeds benefitting the Salvation Army.

“The Salvation Army helps women and their families so much,” said Casey. “They keep the money local and do a lot to help families in town.”

The event will kick off with a champagne welcome, where some of Turlock’s finest male “celebrities” will greet guests with champagne and chocolate covered strawberries. Wine and cheese will also be served during this time, Casey added, thanks to a donation from the Dairy Farmers of America.

The luncheon will focus on four female trailblazers, who will be honored for their service to the community. Lupe Avila, Donna Pierce, Jeanie Ferrari and Aileen Crone are to be recognized at the event.

“They have really blazed a trail for our younger generation,” said Casey. “I think people haven’t been aware of all the things they’ve done that so many people have benefitted from.”

In addition to recognizing the city’s female heroes, Divas on Broadway will also provide a look at female clothing trends. Styles from OneSixteen Bijou, Bella Forte and Snazzy Boutique will all be on display during the event’s fashion show. Casey hopes that the event will be empowering not just for women, but for all in attendance.

“We wanted to keep in step with what we do at the Salvation Army, which is always doing the most good,” said Casey. “That’s what we saw in these women we’ll be honoring, and we figured it’s time someone recognizes that.”

Divas on Broadway will be held at 12 p.m. March 11 at the Carnegie Arts Center, 250 N. Broadway Ave. Individual tickets for the event are $40, and tables at the luncheon may also be purchased for $320. To purchase tickets, contact Salvation Army at 209-667-6091 or Casey at 209-535-3950.