October in the South
There’s just something about October in the South. The air feels crisper, the leaves start to turn and front porches suddenly become the best seats in the house. It’s the season for curling up with a good book, sipping something warm and savoring all the flavors that make this time of year so special.
This month, we’re celebrating food and drink — from some of my very favorite places and people right here in Cullman. From local bites to sips worth sharing, our October issue is filled with inspiration to gather, taste and enjoy. And as we turn the corner toward the holiday season, I can’t help but feel the excitement of what’s to come.
Of course, October wouldn’t be complete without one of our town’s favorite traditions — Oktoberfest! Be sure to stop by and enjoy the music, food and fellowship, and don’t miss Cullman’s favorite couple, the Hay People, as they bring their one-of-a-kind energy to the celebration.
So light that pumpkin candle, grab your favorite blanket and settle in. Whether it’s porch sitting, swapping recipes or trying a new restaurant with friends, I hope this issue inspires you to soak up every bit of Southern fall.
Cheers to food, drink and the joy of October!
With gratitude,
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
OCTOBER 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Cullman’s cutest couple is here for Oktoberfest! Be sure to take a selfie with them. 2: We love Revive Massage Therapy’s new sign! And check out the big chair, too. 3: Dash Milligan and some farm friends - the emus and goats at Milligan Farms! 4: Jacy Hawkins (second from left) with ladies from the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce 5: Jacy Hawkins of Hawkins Medical threw out the first pitch at a Trash Pandas game. 6: The Hay People with Jacy Hawkins at the Cullman Oktoberfest Takeover at Toyota Field 7: Cerrowire's Phil Schmidt and LifeWork Physical Therapy's Mike Tucker at a Hartselle event
REVIVE MASSAGE THERAPY
JACY HAWKINS
LIFEWORK PHYSICAL THERAPY
PAT MILLIGAN
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
8-14: Shots from the Cullman Community Theatre's production of "Fiddler on the Roof"
Photography by Jay Betts
15: We loved seeing this display at Visiting Angels! 16: Hele Bowls was on-site at the Anytime Fitness 10-year anniversary celebration. 17: There was a great turnout at the Anytime Fitness 10-year anniversary event. 18: The Farmhouse Coffee Co was on-site to help Anytime Fitness celebrate. 19: Megan Barbee of Premier Plumbing was awarded Small Business of the Month! Congratulations! 20: Jennifer Hinds and Megan Barbee having a fun time at a Leann Morgan show 21: Tiffany Hallows and Becca McLeroy, lifelong friends, enjoying wine tasting at Jubiliee!
JENNIFER HINDS
CULLMAN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
JENNIFER HINDS - VISITING ANGELS
BECCA MCLEROY
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Ashley Mercantile
Ashley Mercantile brings timeless charm to Cullman with a curated collection of home goods, gifts and Southern favorites. From unique finds to everyday treasures, its welcoming atmosphere makes every visit special. With a second location expanding its reach, Ashley Mercantile continues to be a destination where style meets tradition. Stop in to shop, browse and be inspired — because there’s always something new waiting for you. ashleymercantile.com
Corner Soak & Spa
EmpowerRF, now available at Corner Soak & Spa (501 3rd St. SW, Cullman), is an advanced, nonsurgical women’s wellness treatment that combines radio frequency and electrical muscle stimulation. It helps strengthen the pelvic floor, improve urinary incontinence — all with minimal downtime. Ideal for post-partum, menopausal or anyone seeking sexual health support, EmpowerRF delivers powerful, rejuvenating results in a safe, in-office setting. Book your consultation today at thecornersoakandspa.com.
Scan to read more
Just 2 Chicks Bakery
Just 2 Chicks Bakery is a sweet collaboration between a mother and daughter duo who turned their love of baking into one of Cullman’s favorite spots. Known for their old-generation sourdough bread and other speciality breads all the way to cookies, cupcakes and yummy treats, they make every bite feel like home. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply craving something sweet, Just 2 Chicks makes life a little more delicious — one treat at a time. Facebook/Just2Chicks
Photography by Ashley Mercantile
Photography by Corner Soak & Spa
Photography by Just 2 Chicks Bakery
1st Place Drywall & Finishing
1st Place Drywall & Finishing is Cullman’s trusted source for quality craftsmanship. Specializing in new builds, remodels and repair work, it handles all your drywall needs with precision and care. Services also include interior and exterior painting and staining, ensuring your home or business looks its very best. From start to finish, First Place Drywall & Finishing delivers professional results you can count on — because your project deserves to be first place. facebook. com/1stplacedrywallandfinishing
Safe Solar Boat Docks
Concerned about safety on your boat dock? Safe Solar Boat Docks provides 100% safe solar power for your lift and has many lighting options. Because electricity and water don't mix, Bruce Hall, electrician for 40-plus years, started this business to provide a safe alternative for lake lovers. Safe Solar Boat Docks has been voted Best of Smith Lake. Check it out at facebook.com/cranehillalabama or call Bruce for a free estimate at 256-347-4031.
Cupcake Castles Travel Company
Becca McLeroy is a personal travel designer dedicated to making every journey seamless and unforgettable. As a trusted concierge and advisor, she combines expertise with personalized service to craft trips tailored to your needs. From dream vacations to quick getaways, Becca handles the details so you can focus on the memories. Let her help you explore the world with ease and create experiences that last a lifetime. cupcakecastlestravel.com, 830-237-6259
Photography by 1st Place Drywall & Finishing
Photography by Safe Solar Boat Docks
Photography by Cupcake Castles Travel Company
Loosely inspired by my own children’s newbeginning jitters, Seth’s Big Adventure introduces two unforgettable school heroes:
Mr. Wobbly, the Spider Guy–obsessed principal whose cheerful highfives make everyone smile
Great gift for teachers!
Mrs. Duncan, Seth’s kind new teacher - plus her identical twin, who teaches next door!
Dive into Seth’s world today - grab your copy of Seth’s Big Adventure & check out my other books on Amazon or my website today!
MAKE THE SEASON SPARKLE!
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALABAMA OUTDOOR LIGHTING
Nothing makes the season sparkle quite like some quality holiday lights! Nick Payne, who owns Alabama Outdoor Lighting with his wife, Kelley, shared some illuminating thoughts on the topic.
“My favorite thing about heading into Christmas is seeing the lights glow everywhere. They carry such a nostalgic magic, instantly taking me back to childhood when everything felt full of wonder,” he said.
“Their twinkle surrounds me with the warmth, love and joy of family and friends, reminding me of the
simple beauty and cherished memories that make Christmas feel like home.”
When asked his best piece of advice when it comes to considering how far to go with Christmas lights (on a scale of bah, humbug to Clark Griswold), he laughed, “When it comes to Christmas lights, my best piece of advice is to find that sweet spot between simple and spectacular — the place that makes you feel the magic. You don’t have to be Clark Griswold to create something beautiful, and you don’t have to be a Scrooge to keep it
Classic holiday lighting makes this house festive.
simple. Go as far as it brings you joy, because at the end of the day, Christmas lights should feel nostalgic, warm and full of the spirit of the season.”
Alabama Outdoor Lighting services customers all year long. In addition to other year-round and seasonal lighting, Payne said planning for the holiday rush starts early.
“For us, the planning for Christmas lights begins as soon as we take down the lights,” he said. “Many clients start the moment the Halloween lights come down. As soon as one season wraps up, we’re already dreaming up the sparkle and glow of the next.”
Ever wanted to know how many bulbs are used on a 2,000-square-foot home or business?
Nick Payne said he’s seen some fantastic light displays (Kansas City, Country Club Plaza, Union Station) but…
“The best outdoor holiday light display I’ve ever seen is right here in my hometown — Cullman Christkindlmarkt.The entire place feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie — streets lined with glowing lights, the smell of warm drinks in the air and rows of vendors offering treasures big and small. People travel from all over the world to experience it, yet it still feels like home. Between the lights, the atmosphere and the way the community comes together, it captures everything I love about the season. It’s the kind of Christmas magic you carry in your heart long after the season ends.”
The joy and nostalgia of holiday lights
Classic, clean white lines make this home look sharp!
Lights adorn Three Pears in downtown Cullman.
“It will take about 200–250 C9 bulbs to make the roofline sparkle — though once you start wrapping trees and lighting hip and ridge lines that number can climb faster than Santa up a chimney!” Payne smiled.
And of course, the Big Christmas Light Debate: Solid white, multicolored or something else?
“About 70% of people still choose the classic warm white lights — it’s timeless and cozy, and it gives that traditional Christmas glow,” he said. “But we’re definitely seeing a growing trend toward color. More clients are asking for playful themes like a Candy Land design, a bright Barbie-inspired pink display or even a full Grinch-themed setup. It’s all about making the lights reflect the joy and personality of the season!”
You can check out a gallery of the company's work at www.aloutdoorlighting.com or on Instagram or Facebook. For a free estimate or to set up a nighttime demo, call or text 256-338-5995.
Simple white lights make the Cullman Festhalle sparkle.
‘Karma’s bougie sister’
Ten years ago, Katie Fine opened what would become a Cullman favorite: Karma’s Coffee House. This year, she and her husband, Jacob, opened a new venture, which is well on its way to joining Karma’s as a local staple: Jubilee Kitchen and Bar, located below the new Flying Fifty Hotel.
“Jubilee started after we were approached about opening a second location for Karma’s,” Fine said. “We love Cullman and wanted to bring something new to the community — still rooted in comfort, but with an elevated menu and an emphasis on pairing food with wine and cocktails.”
Food is at the heart of Jubilee, Fine explained. “Our small plates and shareables are meant to complement drinks and give people a reason to stay, dine and explore. Personally, I’ve always been curious about wine but often felt intimidated by committing to a full glass or bottle. That’s why we added wine dispensers — you can taste wines from all over the world, one ounce at a time, in a way that’s approachable and fun, especially when paired with our dishes.”
She said the response to Jubilee over the past several months has been wonderful.
“We already have a loyal group of regulars and steady excitement around our wine dinners and wine club,” said Fine. “But one of the things we love most is how the space is being used. Because we are closed on Mondays, it
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACOB FINE
gives us flexibility for private gatherings like club meetings, networking breakfasts and community groups.
“In the evenings, we’ve hosted everything from corporate team-building activities to cocktail socials. Brunch has also been a popular way for guests to discover us, and from there many return for lunch, dinner and private events. Whether people come for dinner, small bites or just to unwind after a long day, Jubilee has grown into both a dining destination and a gathering place.”
Jubilee’s location is also something special. The Flying Fifty is a special boutique hotel that embraces the history of the area.
“The location is below The Flying Fifty Hotel, which is a gem of its own,” she said. “We have many guests who come to dine with us during their stay. Plus, being located less than 2 miles from the interstate brings in a lot of travelers.”
While Karma’s is cozy, comfy and a great place to set up, get work done or do some reading, Jubilee is more refined.
Jubilee Kitchen and Bar: Dining destination and gathering place
From Jubilee's wine wall, guests can taste wines from all over the world, one ounce at a time.
“I always say Jubilee is Karma’s ‘bougie sister,’” laughed Fine. “When I opened Karma’s, I filled it with thrift store finds, but this time we hired a local architectural and interior designer (Katie Kirkwood) who partnered with us to bring the magical vision to life, collaborating with local craftsmen like Zane Barnett, Nate Barzgate, Jesse Greening and Chris Haney.”
For those looking for something special for the holidays, Jubilee is the place to be.
“We’re especially excited about the upcoming holiday season since we opened just after the holidays last year! This fall, we’re featuring seasonal favorites like our Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini, which has already become a guest favorite. For those who prefer something non-alcoholic, the Apple Orchard Mocktail and Pumpkin Spice Latte bring all the cozy fall flavors without the spirits,” Fine said.
“The holidays are also a special time for gatherings, and Jubilee is the perfect
backdrop. We’ll be booking full restaurant buyouts, along with private events on Sundays and Mondays, and we’ve already reserved the space for family Christmas celebrations. It’s the best feeling in the world to know people choose Jubilee to celebrate their most meaningful moments. For us, it’s about more than just food and drinks — we want to be the place where Cullman comes together!”
Fine gave her recommendations for Jubilee’s most favorite dishes and drinks.
“Our Meatballs Jubilee and Beef Empanadas with House-Made Chimichurri are hands-down the tapas everyone comes back for. When it comes to pizza, the Chicken and Chorizo is our dark horse — it sounds unexpected, but it’s shockingly the one people rave about most,” she said. “Brunch has its own stars: the Chorizo Hash (hearty, spicy and perfect with a mimosa) and our Frittatas, which are light but packed with flavor. On the drink side, the Onyx Crown and Sovereign 75 steal the spotlight at night, while the Salted Butterscotch Latte has quickly become the drink nobody wants to share.”
Jubilee Kitchen and Bar is located at 515 Fourth St. SW, Suite 101, in Cullman. Find it online at jubileekitchenandbar.com and at Jubilee Kitchen and Bar on social media.
A yummy brunch spread
The Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini is a guest favorite.
Banana Rum Old Fashioned with Bruleed Bananas
Get cozy with a Pumpkin Spice Latte.
Share
a Bottle!
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
MADELINE ISBELL AND BLOOM WINERY
Bloom Winery Owner Bella Cornelius Tripp dishes on Good Hope location
Bloom Winery in Good Hope, an offshoot of Bloom Winery and vineyard in Rogersville, has been open for almost a year now, and Owner Bella Cornelius Tripp said the experience has been wonderful.
“It has been more than we ever expected — and so much fun!” she said. “We feel tremendously blessed to have the opportunity to serve the Good Hope/Cullman community. Everyone has been so welcoming, supportive and genuinely kind to our business and family.”
Something special about the Good Hope location? The size.
Left to right are Mitchell Tripp, Bella Cornelius Tripp, KellerAnn Cornelius, PJ Cornelius and Eric Cornelius.
“It’s about three times larger than our other wineries,” said Tripp, who elaborated, “We also love the partnership we have here with Ethos Craft Brewing. It’s truly a party every day! Seriously… you can even book your next party through Ethos! Birthday parties, reunions and wedding events!”
Bloom does more than serve up delicious wines.
“We host pairing and tasting classes year-round, and this fall we’re adding even more fun to the mix — sip and paints, wreath-making workshops and other creative holiday events that bring people together,” she explained.
And the winery is a great spot to gather with friends during the fall/ holiday season.
Said Tripp, “Wine has a way of holding memories. When you share a glass or a bottle with friends and family, it becomes part of a special moment — and months or years later, that same wine can bring those memories rushing back. Pair that with cozy fire pits, great music and a welcoming atmosphere, and you’ve got the perfect gathering spot.”
Specials for the season will include mulled wine and apple cider mimosas, as well as caramel apple wine slushies (and maybe even an apple cider slushie).
Tripp said of Bloom’s most popular wines: “Our Northern Lights and Simply Red are handsdown favorites. Northern Lights is a white muscadine — a true Southern staple — that’s light, refreshing and perfect for any occasion. Simply Red is a smooth red blend that pairs well with just about everything, making it a go-to choice for so many of our guests.”
Bloom Winery is located at 1849 County Road 222 in Good Hope (in Cullman County). bloomwinery.com
It's not too late to enjoy a cozy picnic with your favorite bottle! Just grab some fuzzy blankets and wear your favorite hoodie.
Julia Brodie enjoys a glass of wine.
"WINE HAS A WAY OF HOLDING MEMORIES.
WHEN YOU SHARE A GLASS OR A BOTTLE WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY, IT BECOMES PART OF A SPECIAL MOMENT — AND MONTHS OR YEARS LATER, THAT SAME WINE CAN BRING THOSE MEMORIES RUSHING BACK."
Bloom Vineyard is located in Rodgersville, Alabama.
SIMPLE Southern GOODNESS
Guthrie’s Chicken of Cullman was opened April 29, 2009, by Keith and Donna Lann. Originally from Haleyville, the Lanns have been residents of Cullman since 2021.
We sat down with Keith Lann to get some fast facts about this local favorite that’s famous for its delicious chicken fingers (and that amazing Signature Sauce!).
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE: HOW MANY CHICKEN FINGERS DOES GUTHRIE’S OF CULLMAN SELL EVERY MONTH?
Keith Lann: We are blessed and our business keeps growing, as we sell over 2 tons of chicken fingers each month! It makes us proud when our customers tell us we have the best chicken fingers in town. I tell our cooks since the only thing we sell is chicken fingers that we better be the best!
CCL: WHAT MAKES YOUR EMPLOYEES SPECIAL?
KL: We average 20 employees and most are high school or college students, and this is their first job. The ones who can work 15-20 hours per week bring home a good check. Our managers bring maturity and experience to help run the business. They are constantly working with the staff to train them and make sure they do their job the Guthrie’s way. We try to teach them about business as well as other attributes like being on time, respect for others and being responsible for your actions.
CCL: HOW DOES FOOTBALL SEASON IMPACT YOUR BUSINESS?
KL: Football season brings a new group of chicken finger fans who like to tailgate with a family
Did you know Guthrie’s opened in Haleyville, Alabama 60 years ago?
It was opened in 1965 by Hal Guthrie, an Auburn University graduate, as a drive-in restaurant.
You can find Guthrie's of Cullman at 704 Second Ave. NW (U.S. Highway 31).
Facebook/Guthrie’s Chicken (Cullman, AL)
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA LANN AND GUTHRIE'S
Q&A with Guthrie’s of Cullman’s Keith Lann
meal or bucket. For large groups, we also offer trays of 100 chicken fingers with Signature Sauce.
CCL: SPEAKING OF THAT SIGNATURE SAUCE….WHAT’S IN IT?
KL: Many people ask about our Signature Sauce and the recipe. Hal Guthrie realized he had to have a delicious, totally irresistible dipping sauce to accompany his perfectly golden fried chicken fingers. He had a contest among his younger children Hud, Joe, Kelly and Anna Margaret, to see who could create the best sauce. Hud's sauce won. He was 10 years old! The ingredients are simple so the sauce is consistent.
CCL: WHERE CAN YOU FIND GUTHRIE'S NOW?
KL: There are over 70 locations, from Boise, Las Vegas, West Virginia, Tampa, South Carolina, Cincinnati and all Southern states in between.
Donna and Keith Lann
Guthrie's in Cullman
LESLEY ANN HYDE
Southern Ghost Girls Tours Lead Investigator
get spooky this season
Cullman Ghost Walks happening this month!
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOUTHERN GHOST GIRLS TOURS
Southern Ghost Girls Tours will host its popular Cullman Ghost Walks every Tuesday this month.
Lead investigator Lesley Ann Hyde said, “We started doing Cullman Ghost Walks back in 2019 and they were a huge success. One particular night we had 250 people show up! We are bringing it back to Cullman where it all started.”
This year’s walks will take place downtown, starting at the old Depot and continuing through the town.
“You’ll get to use real paranormal investigation equipment as you walk through town hearing about the spooky side of Cullman and some interesting stories,” said Hyde.
Tours are Tuesdays (Oct. 7, 14, 21 and 28) from 6:30-8 p.m. Ticket prices will vary, with a portion of the proceeds going to local charities. Tickets can be purchased at www.southernghostgirls.com.
A tour group on the grounds of the Cullman County Museum
CLASSIC OLD FASHIONED
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY 412 PUBLIC HOUSE
From 412 Public House Bar Manager Jeremy White
ingredients:
• 2 oz. bourbon or whiskey
• Orange and aromatic bitters
• Splash of house syrup
• Orange peel and cherry for garnish
directions:
Step 1. Mix over ice.
Step2. Strain over large ice sphere.
Step 3. Garnish with orange peel and cherry.
Upscale restaurant 412 Public House, located in downtown Cullman, opened its doors in April 2018. Since then, it has grown to be a local and area favorite. Folks flock to 412 for special occasions and everyday good times.
The restaurant describes itself: "Our focus is bringing a unique dining experience to Cullman, AL through high-quality ingredients, handcrafted cocktails, juicy burgers, mouthwatering steaks, fresh seafood, and an atmosphere made for memories."
It's open for lunch and dinner, and once a month there's a special Sunday brunch.
412 Public House is located at 412 Second Ave. SE. Find it online at 412pub.com, facebook.com/412publichouse and instagram.com/412publichouse.
412's Classic Old Fashioned
412 Public House is located at 412 Second Ave. SE.
Cullman classics: Restaurants that stand the test of time
A selection of local favorites
ARTICLE BY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
In a community as close knit as Cullman, a good meal is more than just food — it’s tradition, memory and the kind of comfort you can’t always find on a menu. We’re lucky to have restaurants that have stood the test of time, some serving our families for 20, 30, 50, 75 years or more. Here’s a look at a few of Cullman’s most beloved dining spots, each with a story worth savoring.
All Steak Restaurant
323 Third Ave. SE
Famous for its orange rolls and hearty steaks, the All Steak has been a dining landmark in Cullman for decades. Originally opened in the 1930s, the restaurant has welcomed generations of families, travelers and steak lovers. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving comfort food, the All Steak is always a table worth returning to.
Carlton’s Italian Restaurant 208 Third Ave. SE
For over 30 years, Carlton’s has been serving up pasta, pizza and warm hospitality. Known for its family-style atmosphere and classic Italian comfort dishes, Carlton’s is the kind of place where locals gather for special occasions and friends reconnect over plates of lasagna.
Cullman’s food scene is built on these cornerstones — places where recipes, stories and laughter are passed down just like family heirlooms. Next time you’re hungry, try one of these local classics. You won’t just be getting a meal — you’ll be getting a taste of Cullman history.
Busy Bee Café 101 Fifth St. SE
Established in 1919, Busy Bee Café is Cullman’s oldest continuously operating restaurant. With its classic diner feel, Southern breakfast plates and coffee that never seems to stop pouring, Busy Bee is a step back in time. Generations have gathered here for biscuits, bacon and a friendly “sit anywhere, sugar” welcome.
Grumpy’s Italian Grill
402 Fifth St. SW
Grumpy’s has spent the last 20-plus years building a reputation for incredible pizza, pasta and live music nights that bring the community together. With its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, it’s a spot where locals know they’ll always feel at home.
Johnny’s Bar-B-Q 1401 Fourth St. SW
Since 1949, Johnny’s has been smoking pork, chicken and ribs the old-fashioned way. A true Cullman institution, it’s known for its tangy barbecue sauce, generous portions and that unmistakable hickory-smoked flavor. From dine-in meals to family take-out feasts, Johnny’s has been part of countless Cullman traditions.
Pasquale’s Pizza & Pasta 915 Second Ave. NW
Pasquale’s is a name many in Cullman grew up with. For more than 30 years, this family-friendly restaurant has been serving up pizzas loaded with toppings, Italian sandwiches and pasta favorites. It’s a place where nostalgia and comfort meet, one slice at a time.
Yummy Jambalaya Risotto
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEA CHANCE - MAVENS & MAKERS
Pull up a chair and dig into this warm, cozy recipe from Mavens & Makers Owner Ashlea Chance.
Featured fall fare ingredients:
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 12 oz. andouille sausage, cut into bite sized pieces
• 1 lb. shrimp
• 1 cup chicken, cooked and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp. butter
• 2 cups Arborio rice
• 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp. Ocean State Bayou Phantom seasoning
• 6 cups chicken broth
• Parsley for garnish
directions:
Step 1. Heat chicken stock in a pot, keep simmering.
Step 2. Heat olive oil in a large stock pot. Sauté onion and bell peppers until almost tender, around 5 minutes.
Step 3. Add andouille sausage to the stock pot with the vegetables. Allow the sausage to start to brown.
This warm and cozy Jambalaya Risotto is autumn perfection.
Step 4. Add the butter and stir in the rice. Once the rice starts to toast, mix in the minced garlic. Cook for one minute.
Step 5. Over low heat add about two cups of the warm chicken stock along with the canned tomatoes and deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits on the bottom of the stock pot.
Step 6. Allow the rice to absorb most of the broth, stirring to combine. Once most of the broth has been absorbed, add another ladle or two of broth and stir. Repeat this step with the remaining broth. This should take about 20-30 minutes total. (You may not use all of the stock depending on how quickly the rice cooks.)
Step 7. About five minutes before the rice is finished, add in the shrimp and Bayou Phantom.
Step 8. Once the shrimp are cooked through, garnish with parsley and serve!
Fresh ingredients make this recipe amazing!
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 2ND - 4TH
Cullman Oktoberfest
Depot Park | 4:00 PM
Oktoberfest promises to immerse visitors in German heritage as we celebrate with fun attractions for all ages. From Thursday, Oct. 2, at 4 p.m. to the closing of the Hofbräuhaus Biergarten Saturday, Oct. 4 at 11 p.m., the streets will be filled with lively music, cultural displays and delicious German cuisine. See a full schedule of events at www.cullmanoktoberfestival.com
OCTOBER 5TH, 12TH, 19TH, & 22ND
Not-So-Scary Stories in the Park
The Art Park | 5:00 PM
The first-ever Cullman Community Theatre Halloween event is a free, interactive, family friendly theatrical show that brings spooky season fun to life. With unexpected twists and a touch of ghostly mischief, it’s storytelling like you’ve never experienced before. Catch all the magic Sunday nights this October in Cullman Art Park. 1031 Second St. SW. Shows are at 5 and 6:30.
OCTOBER 25TH
Spooktacular Storybook 5K & 1 Mile
Cullman County Public Library | 8:00 AM
Hosted by the Friends of the Public Libraries of Cullman County. Bring the whole family for a fun-filled morning of costumes, running and community fun to support the Cullman County Public Library System! Dress up as your favorite book character for a chance to win prizes! The 5K begins at 8 a.m. and the 1-mile run begins at 8:30. runsignup.com/Race/AL/Cullman/SpooktacularStorybook5k1MileFunRun
OCTOBER 25TH
Halloween Tricks & Treats
Smith Lake Park | 6:00 PM
Join us for an evening of family fun from 6-8! Campers are encouraged to decorate their campsites with family friendly decorations for the event. Trick or treating will take place through the campground area. Those with decorated campsites are encouraged to pass out individually wrapped candy. Call and make your camping reservation now at 256-739-2916
OCTOBER 26TH
Off-Road Candy Crawl
Goat Island Brewing | 2:00 PM
Jeep trunk or treat at Goat Island Brewing! This is a family friendly event that will start at 2 p.m. and go until 4.Come on out dressed up for a fun afternoon at Goat Island!
OCTOBER 30TH
21st Annual Student Investment Luncheon
Wallace State Community College – Traditions Bank Arena – Tom Drake Coliseum | 11:00 AM
Join us for an inspiring afternoon as we come together to support Wallace State students and their futures! Enjoy a delicious catered meal and take part in our silent, live and online auctions– all benefiting student scholarships through the Wallace State Future Foundation. Find out more at wsccfuturefoundation.org
