On September 30, 2023, the Kiwanis Club of Tryon, along with Key Club members, successfully hosted its annual Pancake Breakfast fundraiser at St. Luke’s Plaza. Originally scheduled for the previous weekend, the event was postponed due to inclement weather, but it ultimately drew a vibrant crowd eager to enjoy a selection of regular and gluten-free pancakes, bacon, sausage, cooked fresh apples, maple syrup, butter, and a variety of beverages.
The outdoor breakfast served dual purposes: it satisfied the appetites of community members while raising essential scholarship funds for students at both Polk County High School and Early College. Volunteers from the Kiwanis Club and Key Club reflected a long-standing tradition of community service, with the Kiwanis Club awarding between $4,000 and $5,000 in college scholarships each year to Key Club members.
Key Club member Lucas Johnson expressed the value of the event, stating, “I enjoy the opportunity to meet and help members of the community, and Key Club is a great way to do that.” Another member, Kenzie Davis, added, “I love getting out in the community, helping, and seeing all the wonderful smiles on people’s faces.”
Highlighting Community Spirit
The breakfast was particularly special due to the attendance of distinguished guests from the Kiwanis organization. Among those present were Jon Hethcox, Carolinas District Governor; Jennifer Hethcox, Carolinas District Circle K Administrator; and Dawn Puderbaugh Hodges, Kiwanis International Trustee. The event also featured a significant moment when Kiwanians Aaron Greene and Andy Millard presented the Legion of Honor award to Bob Scruggs, recognizing his remarkable fifty years of service to the Kiwanis Club of Tryon.
Scruggs, who has been undergoing kidney dialysis and was unable to attend meetings over the past year, received the award in a heartfelt ceremony that resonated deeply with attendees.
Special thanks were given to local businesses, including the Tryon Coffeehouse, Trade St. Diner, and particularly Throwbax Grille, for their support in providing kitchen and seating arrangements for the event. The Pancake Breakfast is held twice a year, with the Kiwanis Club of Tryon meeting every Wednesday at noon at the Tryon Depot.
This community gathering not only highlighted the importance of local engagement but also reinforced the Kiwanis Club’s commitment to supporting education and service within the region.