14th Taste of the Marianas kicks off at the AMP

A ribbon cutting at the American Memorial Park on Saturday marked the official start of the Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival and Beer Garden, which will be in full swing on all Saturdays of this month, from 6pm to 10pm.

Marianas Visitors Authority Perry Tenorio led the ceremony hosted by PDI director Gordon Marciano. Joining Tenorio were other community leaders, including House Speaker Eli Cabrera, House floor leader George Camacho, Reps. Stanley Torres and Edmund Villagomez, Mayor Donald G. Flores, MVA board member Emma Villagomez, Marianas Tourism Education Council chair Vicky Benavente, and American Memorial Park representatives.

Saturday’s event also kicked off the CNMI Tourism Month celebration, highlighting the theme, “Tourism is Everybody’s Business.”

“Now in its 14th year, Taste of the Marianas is an event that has remained strong and continues to grow,” Tenorio said. “It is because of all of you, our vendors, sponsors, and supporters that keep this event going.”

American Memorial Park ranger Nancy Kelchner commended their “partners and friends” who work with them every year to host the Taste of the Marianas. Kelchner also introduced their new chief ranger, Dave Bauer, who hails from Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, North Carolina.

“Enjoy yourself, enjoy good company, enjoy great food, but please be aware and safe,” said Bauer, adding that he is excited to experience his first Taste of the Marianas.

The 14th Annual Taste of the Marianas is an opportunity to socialize with the island’s visitors as well as offer tourists insights into the Commonwealth’s heritage through local performances.

This year’s Taste features 18 food concessionaires and beer garden vendors: Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan, Hafadai Beach Hotel, Hyatt Regency Saipan, Pacific Islands Club, Canton Restaurant, Furusato Restaurant, Sierra Pearl Shakes, Capricciosa/Tony Roma’s, D’Elegance Restaurant, Herman’s Modern Bakery, Hula Girl/3’s, Thai House Restaurant, Poon’s Restaurant, Tropical Chill, and Coral Ocean Point.

Saturday’s performances featured the Chinese Association of Saipan’s Lion Dance, the Saipan Awaodori Team, Pacific Flowers, Uncle Ben’s Music & Dance, Inatuas, and the Tipi Yeew Dancers.

The first day of the festival also featured a hotdog eating competition. Contestants had to chow down three hotdogs in buns. Winning the youth category were Simon Necesito, first place, $50 worth of tokens; Darwin Ubarra, second place, $30 tokens; and Juwon Jung, third place, $20 tokens.

Under the adult category, the winners were Rob Epley, first place, $50 tokens; Hyuk Kweon, second place, $30 tokens; and Kim Hyung Gyu, third place, $20 tokens.

Next Saturday’s competition is the inaugural pie eating contest. Four judges will also evaluate the entries for the best decorated booth, the winners of which will be announced on the last Saturday of the festival.

For more information, call 664-3200 or 01 or visit www.mymarianas.com.