MORONGO CASINO RESORT & SPA’S MARK SICKENBERGER WINS

 BEST OF SHOW AT 2006 DATE CHEF COMPETITION

 

 

INDIO, CA – (April 24, 2006) Mark Sickenberger (left), assistant executive chef of Morongo Casino Resort & Spa in Cabazon, came away the Best of Show winner Sunday (April 23) at the 2006 Date Chef Competition, beating out 13 other chefs in three categories. Congratulating him are Albert Keck (center), chairman of the California Date Administrative Committee (CDAC) and owner of Hadley Date Gardens; and Fantasy Springs Executive Chef Perry Mascitti, this year’s Chef Spokesman.  The sixth annual event is presented by the CDAC and benefits culinary scholarships through the California Women for Agriculture. Sickenberger’s appetizer, “Scallops and Savory Date Bread Pudding, Zahidi Filo Crisp with Date Vinaigrette” won highest points by a panel of professional judges in a blind judging.  Some 350 guests attended the Gala Champagne Awards Reception for the opportunity to taste all 14 finalists and vote for People’s Choice.  Other winners are:  Gregory Wiener, chef at Ristorante Tuscany, Desert Springs Marriott Resort & Spa, First Place Appetizers; Kue Her, executive sous chef La Casa Del Zorro, Borrego Springs, First Place Entrees; Jerome Diop, senior pastry chef, Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells, First Place Desserts; and Eric Wadlund, chef de cuisine, Azur Restaurant, La Quinta Resort & Club, La Quinta, People’s Choice winner.  All recipes will be posted on the CDAC website, www.DatesAreGreat.com

 

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