ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — Over the last 45 years, the Flora-Bama Lounge has endeavored to give something back to the community whenever possible. 

This year’s 15th annual Super Chili Bowl Cookoff on Jan. 31 was once again able make a contribution back to the community.

There were a total of 16 teams registered for this year’s event to benefit the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, which supports the American Cancer Society’s Mission.  

More than $4,000 was raised by hungry patrons who consumed more than 1,500 bowls of chili with $2 going directly to Shirley Folmar and Pat James of the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. 

Other monies came when each and every category winner generously donated all of their prize money back to help fight cancer. 

The third place winner was “The Three Wiseman” from Waunakee, Wisc. and Orange Beach consisting of Neil Kruschek and Roy Watson. 

In second place was the team “You Can’t Beat Our Meat, But You Can Try” from Miss Neva Jean’s School of Dance consisting of Harold Grosskopf, David Dobratz and Jay Cowick. 

The first place winner was the “Damn Yankees” from Fort Morgan and consisted of Chuck Lyons III, Becky Lyons and Teresa Smith. 

The team with the most tickets received the People’s Choice Award, which went to the Krewe Le Lizard from Perdido Key. This team consisted of Larry Capps, Tom Sweeney and Mary Jo Sweeney. 

Additional funds were raised by the Pink Hatters, a participating team from Elberta, and their creative efforts. 

They sold raffle tickets and held several drawings throughout the day. Their team members included Cindy Bloch, Pam Moenero and Annette Nelson.