The 11th annual Bridges Preparatory School (BPS) Shrimp & Grits Cook-Off was held on Friday, September 30 at Shellring Ale Works in Port Royal, SC.
Hosted by the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), the Shrimp & Grits Cook-Off is the longest-standing fundraising event in BPS history. For the past 11 years, this event has helped support and purchase student computers, academic programs, and playground equipment. This year, funds raised from the Cook-Off will be used to enhance both the student and staff experience.
“The Shrimp and Grits Cook-Off continues to be such a fun event for our school community,” said PTO President, Taylor Hunt. “It is so special to celebrate our families, sponsors, and stakeholders and the wonderful things that continue to happen at Bridges!”
Three of the best chefs from the Lowcountry participated in this event, including a previous Cook-Off winner. The chefs participating in this year's event were: Stephen Hunt, Chloe Konecny, and Travis Walker.
Travis Walker, COO for GMI, was crowned this year’s winner of the Cook-Off. Walker and his team, consisting of Elijah Tatum and Twana Washington, prepared their southern shrimp & grits dish with a Spanish flare. “When you love what you do, winning comes easy,” said Walker. It was evident from Friday night’s Cook-Off that Walker and his team enjoyed their time cooking at this event.
The PTO worked tirelessly to ensure that this year’s Cook-Off was one of the best. In fact, the Cook-Off sold-out two nights prior to the event, and votes casted for a Cook-Off winner doubled from 77 last year to 154 total votes this year. Shellring’s picturesque outdoor venue made for a perfect location for such a large turnout, accommodating 150+ guests. The PTO was thrilled to see so many BPS parents attend and support this year’s Cook-Off. A significant addition this year was “Parents Night Out” hosted by the Bucs Athletic Booster Club. This gave BPS parents the opportunity to drop off their students at BPS for free childcare as they enjoyed the Cook-Off.
Over the past 11 years, the Cook-Off has evolved much like the school. Even after all this time, the focus of this event is still to support Bridges Preparatory School and provide the students with an exceptional educational experience. The PTO hopes to continuously grow this event with the support of BPS families and the community.
“Bridges Preparatory School has experienced tremendous growth and change over the years. As we continue to grow, we will not lose sight of what makes us special with the development of a strong school community, relationships, and a family atmosphere,” CEO Gary McCulloch said. “The Shrimp & Grits Cook-Off is a great event that unites our school community and gives our parents an opportunity to meet new friends and strengthen our school family.”