EVM renames Saipan Next Top Chef to CNMI Next Top Chef

Empty Vessel Ministry Foundation has changed the name of its No. 1 fundraising event from Saipan Next Top Chef to CNMI Next Top Chef to reflect the competition’s desire to lure chefs from the CNMI’s other two islands—Tinian and Rota.

EVM also would like to extend a big thanks to major sponsors and chef contestants for sponsoring and participating in the upcoming 2016 CNMI Next Top Chef event.

The previous Top Chef events have been a great success because of the generous donors, supporters, and volunteers who have continued to sponsor this competition fundraiser since its inception in 2011. EVM also extend a hearty thanks to the new supporters and sponsors for this event.

EVM thanks major sponsors Pacific Islands Club for providing the venue and Bridge Capital LLC, Triple J, Best Sunshine, and IT&E for financial contributions and Hyatt Regency Saipan and Fiesta Resort & Spa for their participation and for providing gift vouchers for raffle drawings. Their support provides a long-term benefit of the EVM programs and aids in the expenses for the event.

Kagman culinary students have participated in the events since 2011. They will again assist the chefs.

Past winners of the Saipan Next Top Chef competitions are excited to be part of this event in cheering on their fellow chefs and supporting our worthy cause.

The previous Saipan Next Top Chef winners were Mel DeRamos from Fiesta Resort (2011); Emmanuel Pacha of Marianas Resort and Spa (2012); and Rhea Backe, an amateur contestant won in 2013.

These former winners have assisted in raising funds for EVM and raising awareness about our activities. It is also EVM’s desire to have products from the show at the event to sell to generate income. Items like aprons, T-shirts, and the chefs’ creations will be avaialable. We will be looking forward to sending the winner to off-island competitions.

Cash awards will be given out for third place, second place, and the grand prize winner. Other chefs will receive prizes as well.

Proceeds from previous Saipan Top Chef events helped EVM provide back-to-school supplies for needy children attending the public schools.

“We are grateful for this and for all the support extended to EVM by individuals and agencies. We are able to distribute donations through the thrift outreach store and have been able to assist many needy people after Soudelor. We have assisted people with clothing, food, and basic supplies. All this is made possible for those who give donations of supplies and finances to enable EVM to serve. Even during that time when laundromats were closed because of no electrical power, EVM was able to help,” said EVM founder Rose Smith.

EVM asks for assistance of those who can give toward its continued service to the community.

“Perhaps those who have been blessed by our ministry and may now be in a position to give back. We ask you to consider remembering us. We cannot serve on our own without the help of others,” said Smith.

EVM is located in Gualo Rai, across from EZ Mart above Kylie’s Bakery. We can be reached 235-2340 or 483-0162 or you can contact Diana Benavente and Janice Tenorio or email emptyvesselministry@gmail.com. (PR)