BillLawrenceOnline

John Cruaxe Shrimp N Grits — John Cruaxe had just received disturbing news. Cruaxe was the fatherly founder of a small, but highly respected and profitable, Silicon Valley computer company.

The aggressive little firm managed to remain a step ahead of the industry giants in many important computer developments. Much of the credit was awarded to Phil Dillon, a brilliant young scientist who was forever “pulling money-making rabbits out of a hat.”

Dillon, who had a beautiful wife and pretty daughter, had in the past a ready smile for everyone, despite the seriousness of his work.

But lately, the smile had been replaced by a worried frown.

Cruaxe now apparently knew why. The company’s general manager had turned in a report that revealed that Dillon had met with representatives of a Japanese competitor on several occasions. The report, prepared by Cruaxe’s security personnel, also showed that Dillon was a heavy gambler and was in debt to the tune of over $100,000.

The general manager insisted that Dillon be fired immediately.

Cruaxe, in a quiet voice, said, “Let’s find out a bit more, before we do anything. I look upon this company as I do my own body. If something ailed my arm, I would try to heal it, before I cut it off.”

Cruaxe called the young computer scientist into his office and confronted him with the evidence gathered by the security department.

Dillon broke down. Between sobs, he explained how the Reno gambling tables drew him as a magnet would a piece of iron. How he began placing larger bets in an attempt to recoup his losses. How he began arguing with his wife. He was very unhappy. He swore, however, that although tempted, he never betrayed Cruaxe or the company.

Cruaxe smiled. He wrote out a check to cover the gambling losses. He then gave Dillon a large raise that would be taken out of his pay each week to repay the gambling loan. He then promised Dillon a five percent ownership in the company if he would join Gamblers Anonymous to cure the destructive malady.

Within a few weeks, Dillon was smiling and again pulling money-making rabbits out of his hat. One idea alone was worth over $500,000.

To celebrate, Cruaxe, a native-born South Carolinian, held a weekend barbecue for the entire staff. Spareribs, steak and chicken were served but the real hit of the event was the very simple shrimp and grits recipe passed onto him by his father.

John made this without meat although adding bacon is always good.

Take the amount of shrimp you want, lightly pepper them and smother them in garlic powder.

Then cook the grits according to the directions on the box except substitute chicken broth for water.

When the broth is absorbed mix in cheese — cheddar is best and the amount is your call —  and cook until  incorporated stirring frequently. 

 While you are incorporating the cheese, heat butter (or oil) in a very hot pan and put in the shrimp. Cook them for a minute or two on each side. Plate the grits — or put them in a large bucket for a barbecue — and add the shrimp.

John Cruaxe Simple Shrimp N Grits