Story by Stephanie Blair/Cold Springs High School
The aroma of sizzling beef and the excitement of competition filled Cotton Creek Venue in Cullman on September 16, 2025, as Cullman County FCCLA students gathered for the annual All-County Beef Cook-off. Sponsored by the Cullman County Cattlewomen’s Association and Alabama Farm Credit, the event highlighted both culinary talent and leadership among area students.
Taking top honors was Devyn Heald of Vinemont High School, who claimed 1st place and earned a spot at the State Beef Cook-off in April. Other standout winners included Reese Guthrie of West Point (2nd), Katie Holmes of Vinemont (3rd), Fuller Williams of Good Hope (4th), and Jose Lopez of Good Hope (5th).
(Pictured L to R: Devyn Heald, Reese Guthrie, Katie Holmes, Fuller Williams, Jose Lopez)
The celebration didn’t stop with cooking. Macie Garmon of Cullman Area Technology Academy was named Most Outstanding FCCLA Member in Cullman County, with Baylee Dye of Cold Springs earning 2nd place. Garmon will be formally recognized at the Farm City Banquet in November.
(Pictured L to R: sponsor Whitney Haynes, Baylee Dye, Macie Garmon)
The event was made possible by the dedication of FCCLA advisers across the county: Mrs. Stephanie Blair (Cold Springs), Mrs. Amie Veal (Cullman Area Career Center), Mrs. Whitney Haynes (Fairview), Mrs. Amanda Williams (Good Hope), Mrs. Amy Chambers (Hanceville), Ms. Renee Lee (West Point), and Mrs. Madison Sapp (Vinemont).