Do you love the show “Top Chef,” watching the food network challenge, or trying a new restaurant? Then you will love our annual event at the Alzheimer’s Association, Rhode Island Chapter, called “Culinary Challenge for a Cause.”

Chefs from Rhode Island’s own assisted living communities will participate in the ultimate cook off to see who is the assisted living “Top Chef.” And who will be the judge you might ask? You! Plus an exciting panel of celebrity judges!

The celebrity panel includes WPRI 12 and FOX Providence’s multiple Emmy-nominated Anchor and Reporter, Mike Montecalvo. Mike has helped raise millions of dollars for local charities, including the Alzheimer’s Association of Rhode Island. Also judging will be Chef Frank Terranova, Senior Instructor in the College of Culinary Arts at Johnson & Wales University’s Providence Campus and host of “Cooking with Class,” a daily television cooking segment on NBC 10, and NBC Sunday Brunch. Joining the panel from Rhode Island’s food industry is Ken Rianna, Silver Sponsor of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and KFC and Taco Bell Franchise owner for over 40 years operating restaurants in Rhode Island and Connecticut.

Panelists also include local modern artists Paul M. Coté. Coté’s work can be found in a myriad of public and private locations including The Smithsonian, Harvard University, Mass. General Hospital, Butler Hospital, and the Alzheimer’s Association. Coté uses his art to teach classes like “freedom of thought” to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association. Paul’s artwork will be on display the evening of the Culinary Challenge as a great gift for the holidays. Proceeds from the sales of the artwork will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.

What would a Culinary Challenge be without some political fun with our celebrity panelist Craig Dwyer, Senior Policy Advisor, Office of the Lieutenant Governor.

The public is invited to this festive affair Wednesday, November 29 at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet, to sample delectable gourmet cuisine and to cast a ballot for your favorite chef. Doors open promptly at 5:30 p.m. for the cocktail reception, then at 6:15 p.m. the chef stations open for sampling by the general public, and visual display judging. Later that evening, the award presentation will take place when the celebrity judges determine the “Top Chef,” based on presentation, taste, and creativity. Tickets are $35 per person in advance, $30 for parties of 10 or more or $50 at the door. You will not want to miss this event! RSVP to 1-800-272-3900 or visit www.alz.org/ri.