CULLMAN, Ala. – In the heart of Cullman, where tradition and community run deep, Amy McAfee Wood has been named the Cullman Oktoberfest 2024 Burgermeister, a title that she said fills her with immense pride and joy. As vice president of Cullman Cabinet and an interior designer with The Added Touch, Wood’s connection to her hometown is profound and multifaceted.
When asked about how she felt on learning about her new title, she shared, “I was overwhelmed. I am incredibly proud to say I am from Cullman and to represent my hometown as the 2024 Burgermeister.” Her enthusiasm and genuine love for Cullman are evident once you speak with her.
Wood’s story began in Birmingham, but her heart has always belonged to Cullman.
“I was born in Birmingham, but have always lived in Cullman,” she said. “My roots run deep in Cullman, beginning with my great-great-grandparents.”
As a graduate of Cullman High School in 1992 and Auburn University with a design degree in 1997, Wood has dedicated her life to both her family and her community.
Her professional journey is closely tied to her family’s business.
“I have worked in my family’s business as an interior designer for 27 years. It is a blessing to have spent my childhood at Cullman Cabinet and then to spend my adulthood working hand-in-hand with my family to grow the business,” she explained.
Wood’s passion for design and her commitment to helping clients in Cullman and the surrounding areas with both residential and commercial projects has made her a beloved figure in the community.
Nathan Anderson, executive director of Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism (CPRST), shared his excitement about Wood’s new role. “Amy McAfee Wood is the perfect choice for Burgermeister. Her dedication to Cullman and its residents is unparalleled,” Anderson said.
He emphasized that Wood’s long-standing commitment to the community and her involvement in various local projects have made a significant impact on Cullman. He said, “She’s always been a strong supporter of our events and initiatives, and we are thrilled to see her recognized in this way.”
Cullman has celebrated its rich German heritage for nearly half a century. In 1982, building on the success of Sacred Heart’s German Festival, which began in 1977, local businesses, churches and civic groups united to officially launch the first Cullman Oktoberfest.
Anderson highlighted the festival’s enduring success, stating, “Decades later, we are still going strong. The 2023 Oktoberfest boasted record-breaking attendance, with nearly 40,000 people celebrating with us. This enduring success is a testament to the creativity, hard work and dedication of countless entities and individuals. We are deeply grateful to all our sponsors, committee members, vendors, businesses, churches, schools and civic groups who invest countless hours and resources into this festival. Thanks to their efforts, this cherished tradition is set to thrive for the next 50 years and beyond.”
Beyond her professional achievements, Wood’s greatest joy comes from her family. “My greatest joy is being the mother of four Cullman High School graduates: Olivia, Nicholas, Alexander and Wilson,” she proudly shared. Her deep connection to her family and community has always been a driving force in her life.
Being named Burgermeister is a significant honor for Wood, who has always cherished her hometown.
“I have enjoyed visiting many cities in the US. However, I always love coming home to Cullman. We have something special. I am humbled and proud to be selected as this year’s Burgermeister. I just love Cullman,” she said with heartfelt emotion.
As Burgermeister, Wood said, she looks forward to participating in all the Oktoberfest events.
“I am looking forward to all the events planned in Cullman for Oktoberfest from the (Burgermeister) Ball to the tapping (of the keg). Most of all, I look forward to visiting with friends and family, welcoming guests from out of town and showcasing our German heritage,” she shared excitedly.
Anderson noted that Wood’s involvement would undoubtedly add a special touch to the festivities. “Her enthusiasm and pride for Cullman will enhance the experience for everyone attending Oktoberfest,” he said.
Wood’s dedication to her family, her business and her community embodies the spirit of Cullman. As she steps into her role as 2024 Burgermeister, her love for her hometown and its traditions will undoubtedly shine through, making this Oktoberfest a truly memorable celebration.
This year is particularly special, according to Anderson, as Wood will inaugurate the opening ceremony using a custom mallet crafted by her late father, Danny McAfee, for the ceremonial tapping of the keg. Wood’s role as Burgermeister and the use of her father’s mallet will add a deeply personal touch to the festivities, embodying the community and family spirit that makes our festival so unique.
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