On Oct. 13, the Rotary Club of Tryon hosted the 2018 Shrimpfest in the Harmon Field covered gym. 

The Shrimpfest is an annual event where friends and family gather for food and fellowship while supporting the work of the Rotary Club.

This year’s event was organized by “Jumbo Shrimp” Scott Hooper and “Tiger Shrimp” Kevin Powell. The shrimp and bratwurst were prepared by club members, while the rest of the food was prepared by Duval Catering.   

Music during the event was provided by Polk County Schools Superintendent Aaron Greene. 

All of the other Rotary Club of Tryon members supported the event through either working at the event or selling tickets. It takes a large group working together to make this event a success, club representatives said.

One of the highlights of each year’s Shrimpfest is the live auction of items donated by community members and local businesses. This year’s auction was conducted by Michael Baughman, of Parsec Financial. 

During the auction, attendees had the option to “Fund A Need” by providing financial support to a program run by The Rotary Club of Tryon or Rotary International.

The proceeds from Shrimpfest are used to fund the programs supported by the Rotary Club of Tryon. Each year, the club donates over $40,000 in grants and scholarships to individuals and organizations in the community.

Those interested in learning more about Rotary can visit rotarycluboftryon.com or can come to one of the club’s weekly meeting at the Tryon Presbyterian Church.  

– Submitted article