GULF SHORES, Ala. — Taylor Powell represented Baldwin County in the Senior South division of the 2009 State Beef Cook-Off in Montgomery on Jan. 10.

Powell was one of 36 students to compete at the state level. The students were split into four divisions based on their age and region.

Dishes were judged on appearance, ease of preparation, nutritional value and taste. Powell prepared three bean chili.

The State Cook-Off has been a major beef promotion project for the Alabama Cattlewomen’s Association since 1972. The State Beef Cook-Off not only educates students about the nutritional value of beef, but also familiarizes them with various cooking methods and emphasizes safe food handling.

Powell is the son of Rodney and Susan Powell of Gulf Shores. He is a junior at Gulf Shores High School. 

The beef industry is the second largest segment of Alabama’s farm economy representing a $2 billion industry with annual sales of cattle and calves exceeding $450 million. The Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, founded in 1944, is one of the nation’s largest state cattlemen’s association with an annual membership of 12,000. For more information, visit the ACA Web site at bamabeef.org.