An overcast hue cast across the weekend of Feb. 25, but plans rolled on as usual for the Chili for Charity Cook-off 2012 held at Oak Hollow Farms. Rocking chairs line the porch of the gray-brown barn, setting the stage for family fun, down-home eats and dreams of recipe renown.

Around 2,000 guests and eight judges enjoyed bowls full of comfort as they gathered to raise approximately $25,000 for Ecumenical Ministries, Inc. service programs like emergency aid, Meals on Wheels, community development and home repair.

The 31 teams provided 10 gallons of chili, each, with widely-varied dishes, styles and presentations, according to Sally Deane, executive director of Ecumenical Ministries, Inc.—a faith-based Christian ministry.

Tom Jones, a well-known potter, helped organize the annual event that started 12 years ago at Beckworth Lodge in Fairhope, according to Deane. He donated his hand-made pottery as prizes, again this year. For more on volunteering or donations, visit baldwinemi.org, or for more on the pottery and artist, visit tomjonespottery.com.

Place:

1, blue ribbon—Team 32, Suncoast Insurance/Inshore Reality

2, red ribbon—Team 6, St Stephen CEC Church

3, yellow ribbon—Team 23, Krewe de Kiwanis

4, green ribbon—Team 22, Little Rock Missionary Church

5, purple ribbon—Team 1, Cowboy's Cawer

Apron Winner—Team 16, St. Vincent de Paul

Booth Winner—Team 7, The Dwelling Place

People's Choice—Team 25, Under His