Pat Trevino | December 11, 2025
CUERO — The aroma of creativity and determination filled the air as DeWitt County 4‑H members took center stage at the District 11 Food Show and Food Challenge, held recently. With aprons tied, recipes rehearsed, and nerves steadied, local youth proudly represented their county in one of the most anticipated contests of the 4‑H year.
The Food Show invited individual participants to prepare dishes inspired by the theme “Cooking Through the Decades.” Contestants presented their creations to a panel of judges, explaining nutritional value, food safety practices, and the cultural inspiration behind their recipes. From hearty classics to modern twists, each dish reflected not only culinary skill but also the confidence and poise of the young chefs.
Meanwhile, the Food Challenge tested teamwork under pressure. Teams were given a mystery basket of ingredients and tasked with creating a dish in a limited amount of time. Beyond cooking, members had to present their dish to judges, detailing preparation steps, food safety measures, and nutritional analysis. The competition demanded quick thinking, collaboration, and strong communication skills — all hallmarks of the 4‑H program.
Local leaders praised the participants for their dedication. “These contests are about more than cooking,” one organizer noted. “They teach youth how to work together, think critically, and speak with confidence. We are proud of every member who stepped up to compete.”
For DeWitt County, the event was a celebration of effort as much as achievement. Some members earned placements, while others walked away with the satisfaction of having given their absolute best. All left with valuable experience that will serve them in future competitions and in life.
The District 11 contests are stepping stones to higher‑level events, including the Texas 4‑H Roundup, where winners advance to compete against peers from across the state. But for many families, the local gathering was already a victory — a chance to see their children shine, learn, and grow.
As photos of smiling contestants circulated, the community joined in congratulating the youth. Whether holding ribbons or simply proud of their effort, each participant embodied the 4‑H spirit: “To make the best better.”
The Crunchy Cookers- Maesen, Charlotte, Reece, and Hannah
