FAIRHOPE, Ala. — Despite thunderstorms that moved through the county Friday night and early Saturday morning, organizers estimate 1,500 to 1,800 residents came out to Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope at lunchtime for the Ecumenical Ministries Inc. Chili for Charity fundraiser.

Participants lined up as 35 cooking teams served up steaming bowls of chili. Many chose to purchase a $30 ticket, which entitled them to a heart-shaped pottery chili bowl crafted by Tom Jones.

The renowned local potter was not content just to create the special bowls, he also fashioned the competition prizes and entered a team in the cook-off. Jones partnered with Tony’s Towing. Their team won the apron decorating competition, which resulted in Jones winning one of the prizes he had made.

St. Paul’s of Daphne won the booth decoration contest, and the team Big and Rich won the People’s Choice award. Winners of the cook-off are: 1st Place, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Magnolia Springs; 2nd Place, Love Me Tender team; 3rd Place, Fairhope Friends team; 4th Place, Bayside Boys Service Club; and 5th Place, Foley Kiwanis Club.

Blind Dog Mike furnished live music for everyone’s enjoyment.

EMI doesn’t have a final tally yet on the total funds raised during the event.