Two slots still open for CNMI Next Top Chef contest

Marianas Variety publisher Laila Y. Boyer, front right, is joined by members of the CNMI Next Top Chef 2017 organizing committee at the Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan in announcing the newspaper’s sponsorship on Oct. 6, 2017. Proceeds of the event on Nov. 9, 2017, at Fiesta Resort will benefit the Empty Vessel Ministry Foundation. (Contributed Photo)

The CNMI Next Top Chef competition is now registering interested chefs, cooks, and interested community members for the event on Nov. 9, 2017, at the Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan.

Top prizes are $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place, and $300 for third.

This year’s competition, the 2nd Top Chef organized by charitable organization Empty Vessel Ministry Foundation and the Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands, will feature 12 chef teams in a competition somewhat similar to the Chopped television show. It will feature live demonstrations on stage in three rounds: appetizers, main entrée, and dessert.

Overall, this is the fifth time that Empty Vessel is holding the Top Chef contest.

Entry forms are available from EVM at emptyvesselministry@gmail.com or at their office on Middle Road, Gualo Rai. Entry is $50 and will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis.

“We strongly encourage interested individuals to register as soon as possible, as we will be having a chefs’ meeting very soon to discuss rules and procedures,” said Top Chef organizing committee chair Catherine Perry. “We are looking forward to building on the success and excitement of last year’s show, and we thank all of our sponsors for coming together for this worthy cause.”

All proceeds will benefit the Empty Vessel Ministry Foundation. Individuals who purchase a ticket to the CNMI Next Top Chef 2017 will be able to attend the live competition, enjoy a “Pacific Paradise”-theme prepared by HANMI-member hotels, and participate in a raffle drawing. Tickets are $50/person.

“EVM appreciates HANMI members and the committee for hosting our meetings on a weekly basis in planning the event. We thank as well the contestants and sponsors for being part of the event,” said EVM director Rose Smith. “We are looking forward to an exciting and fun event, and we are forever grateful.”

Presenting HANMI member hotels are: Aqua Resort Club Saipan, Aquarius Beach Tower, Century Hotel, Coral Ocean Golf Resort, Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan, Grandvrio Resort Saipan, Kanoa Resort Saipan, Kensington Hotel Saipan, Hyatt Regency Saipan, Laolao Bay Golf & Resort, Mariana Resort & Spa, Pacific Islands Club, and Saipan World Resort.

Collaborating partners are the Northern Marianas Trades Institute and Kagman High School culinary class.

Gold-level sponsors are the Marianas Visitors Authority, IT&E, Imperial Pacific International (CNMI) LLC.

Wushin Corp. is a silver-level sponsor.

Bronze sponsors are Docomo Pacific, Micronesian Brokers, Let’s Go! Tour, and Pacific Wines & Spirits.

Additional sponsors are Triple J Five Star Wholesale, PTI, Joeten Shopping Center, National Office Supply, Micronesian Brokers, Philippine Airlines, Pacifica Insurance, Pacific Trading Co., H-Hart, Marianas Variety, KCNM-KZMI, Tools of the Trade, Hertz Car Rental, Aon Insurance, Century Tours, Century Insurance, Chung Nam Corp., Deloitte & Touche, Ernst & Young, FHP Saipan/TakeCare, Gree Air-Conditioning, Island Training Solutions, Japan Water System, JC Marketing Inc., Marianas Pacific Distributors Inc., Natasha Service Center, National Office Supply, Pacific Home Appliance, Pacific Saipan Inc./One Pacific, PEGS LLC/Pacific, Saint Trading Co., Seatouch, S.P.E. (Saipan) Inc., V-Kool Advanced Window Film Technology, Stars & Stripes Cruises in Paradise, I Love Saipan, KKMP, Saipan Tribune, KSPN2, and Power 99.

Corporations and individuals interested in donating to the event or purchasing tickets may contact EVM at 235-2340 or 483-0162. (PR)