There's a BBQ reunion taking place this year that promises to be big in fun for the family and loaded with flavors. And, it has the culinary line-up to back that up!
It's Southern Roots: A BBQ Reunion and it takes place at Trailblazer Park, 235 Trailblazer Drive in Travelers Rest on April 30, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Let's learn about why this event exists.
In February 2019, Geoff Rhyne learned from the Greenwood Genetic Center that his 15 month old daughter, Ella Marie, had a rare genetic disorder called Kleefstra Syndrome. For the previous 15 months, Ella had struggled to meet milestones and experienced a myriad of symptoms: pulmonary valve stenosis, hypotonia, RSV, and delays in motor functioning.
Like 95% of rare diseases, Kleefstra Syndrome has no FDA approved treatment. There is no cure. However, Geoff has become determined to drive research and drug development to help not only his daughter, but also, as many other patients as possible. In September of 2020, Geoff and his partners launched IDefine, and quickly raised over $100k to fund the 1st ever medical center in the US focused on Kleefstra Syndrome, the Kleefstra Clinic at Boston Children’s Hospital. Recently, Geoff hosted an International Conference on Kleefstra Syndrome that saw over 500 clinicians, researchers, and patients attend from 37 countries around the world! Time is of the essence in this battle, and we must accelerate the research and drive progress.
To acquire the funding necessary, Geoff decided to leverage his background in the food and beverage community to create a unique, must attend event. The first call was to Jason Callaway of Bacon Bros Public House about doing a Greenville-based BBQ and music event. Soon thereafter, Jason connected Geoff with Brenda Luginbill of CB Events, and local entrepreneur, Patrick McInerney and the team started formulating the idea of a hometown hangout that would bring the community together in a reunion style format to benefit the nonprofit Geoff started, IDefine, and the Greenwood Genetic Center.
Rhyne owns Red Clay Hot Sauce. He, along with his other founders and many partners, are building a culinary community around BBQ with food from local sources.
When we say our roots are important to us, we really mean it. And that includes how our food is sourced too! We are so proud to be working with various local farmers and producers to stay as true to our roots as possible. From raising the cattle to planting grains, fruits and vegetables, these talented farmers are helping us specifically grow items for the event so you’ll be tasting some of the best, freshest, local ingredients!
So, why is called a reunion?
We have gathered a line-up of local and guest chefs, farmers, musicians, beverage talent and more to bring you an event unlike any other.
This is not your average reunion.
With acclaimed chefs and fantastic music, you’ll get to experience a range of meats, seafood, veggies, and fruits cooked in all different styles.
When we say our roots are important to us, we really mean it. And that includes how our food is sourced too! We are so proud to be working with various local farmers and producers to stay as true to our roots as possible. From raising the cattle to planting grains, fruits and vegetables, these talented farmers are helping us specifically grow items for the event so you’ll be tasting some of the best, freshest, local ingredients!
Our favorite part about BBQ is the way it brings people together and that’s exactly what we intend to do at Southern Roots.
We have curated the perfect setting, with the best company, cooking together for a cause.
Our hope is that you’ll leave this event feeling like family!
You can meet the "family" of folks making this happen by clicking here. Tickets for the event can be purchased by clicking this link. If you want to participate in other ways i.e. sponsorship or vendor, you can join the family by clicking here.
This should be a great event that growers bigger each year its held. Kudos to all involved.
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