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Death by Chocolate draws wide support
Contestants of a cupcake decorating competition design their designated cupcakes during the Death by Chocolate fundraiser held by the CNMI Salvation Army at the Hyatt Regency Saipan on Nov. 26. (Michael T. Santos)
Participants of the CNMI Salvation Army’s first ever Death by Chocolate fundraiser at the Hyatt Regency Saipan last Saturday should expect a toothache real soon.
The event, lasting from 11am to 4pm, entertained its guests with a silent auction, live performances by several bands, competitions among attendees, and raffle prizes.
All proceeds for Death by Chocolate will be used to help fund the Salvation Army’s soup kitchen and food bank.
“We had a good turnout. A lot of folks showed up and sold quite a few tickets at the door and through our Facebook page. There were also wonderful donors who gave a lot of prizes,” said Salvation Army pastor Wayne Gillespie. “We’re just happy and grateful to those who bought tickets or donated to the event.”
Several vendors were present on site, such as the Stamp and Coin Club and Bella’s Box, as well as a guest appearance by first lady Diann Torres to inaugurate the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Season by making the first donation.
Riya Nathrani, a volunteer, said, “I think this event is the first in the CNMI. I think it’s a great way to bring the community together, and everyone loves chocolate so it’s a great way to make people collaborate and mingle with one another. There’s also a lot of raffle prizes donated by different companies that I think entices people to come and take their chances while helping a great cause.”
Brandon Nyugen, an attendee, said, “I really enjoy chocolate! The fact that there’s a buffet for them was something I didn’t think I would enjoy as much as I did. Plus there were competitions that made things seem a bit more lively.”
Gillespie thanked all its donors, volunteers, and guests for the event, saying the Salvation Army hope to host another one next year.
“If we do another one next year, we hope it will be held in a bigger venue. We would also like to add new and interesting things for the guests to enjoy,” he said.
