By Andrew Edwards, Staff Writer

While much needed, the rain that spread across Alabama on Saturday morning, Oct. 19, unfortunately dampened the spirts for an assortment of events that took place across the city. However, that didn’t stop those dedicated to the YMCA’s Great Grits Cookoff from coming out and enjoying some delicious grits, for a great cause.

This is eighth edition of the cookout in which businesses, churches, restaurants and other individuals came together in the open field next to the YMCA Bradford Branch to engage in friendly competition for the best tasting grits.

“This is the first time we’ve come out here in several years,” said Kristi Pieper of the Prattville Chamber of Commerce. “We’ve got a new recipe this year,” she said with a smile. “Even though it’s raining, it’s always fun to come out here and support the great cause the YMCA is putting on.”

The cause that Pieper is talking about is the Coach a Child Scholarship Fund. All the proceeds from the event will go towards the scholarships, which helps those who may have the inability to pay.

According to the Bradford Branch, during the 2019 year Prattville YMCA has given over $180,000 in scholarships to families, benefiting nearly 2,000 different individuals.

This year, the Prattville Fire Department won the overall award for best grits.