Martie on Food Network Star: Team Commercials Airing, May 12th Casting Show Announced

Team Alton: Judson, Cristie, Me, Justin and EmilyAs we count down the weeks left (3) until the premier of Food Network Star Season 8, it seems as if something new is happening every day. Media requests. Interviews. Another trip to NYC for the cast. Lots of Facebook chatter from the contestants and fan favorite voting has all started since the cast announcement. I can see why some actors don't watch their work. It makes me more than a little nervous just to see the commercials.

Here's one of the videos. Since I'm not in it, it doesn't evoke any panic or worry. Bobby Flay talks about cooking for 30 years and how he wants the best cooks and it is a fight to the finish. Giada says she expects perfection from her team. Alton is looking for teachers and storytellers. This I can do:)

I would like to mention that I've been cooking longer than Bobby Flay... I got my Girl Scout badge for cooking more than 40 years ago and as a former cop and sister to three brothers, I know a bit about fighting, too, Just kidding:))

Yes, that is the way it is going down this year. Three celebrity chef mentors selected a team from thousands of applicants. The pre-premier casting episode will air on Saturday night, May 12th 9Eastern/8 Central time. The first episode will air the following night, Mother's Day Sunday at the same time. Get the popcorn ready!

In case you are so inclined, here's the link to FOOD NETWORK STAR for all of the details, finalist bios, videos, etc for this year's show.

FAN FAVORITE VOTING!

The fan favorite voting has already started. It does not determine who stays and who goes each week. That is decided by Bob and Susie from the network along with celebrity chef judges. However, it does show the powers that be that fans like you and that is super important! You can vote 10 times per day per computer or mobile device. I have been spending wayyyy tooooo much time clicking on my own photo for votes lately so I'd love it if you'd take a few minutes and vote for me. Here's the link!

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Martie on Food Network Star: Teams and Mentors are New for Season 8

One of the most exciting things about being selected for Season 8 of Food Network Star is the opportunity to work with Alton Brown.  

The new format for Food Network Star is similar to The Voice or X-Factor where mentors Bobby Flay, Giada DeLaurentiis, and Alton Brown coach and guide their team of five contestants through the challenges each week. I auditioned for Mr. Brown in Atlanta back in early November and was thrilled when he asked me to compete on his team. You may assume that the competition is strictly between the teams and the contestants... and you'd be very wrong. Watch this video and decide for yourself which team you think will win.... Never count a smart guy out... that's all I've got to say. More on the show and the competition soon!

GET MORE INFORMATION ON FOOD NETWORK STAR OR VOTE FOR ME NOW!

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