The Orange Beach Garden Club and the City of Orange Beach have announced the winners of the inaugural Great American Mailbox Challenge, a patriotic beautification initiative that encouraged residents to celebrate America's 250th birthday by decorating their mailboxes.

The contest launched on Memorial Day and invited Orange Beach residents to create patriotic mailbox displays in honor of the nation's Semiquincentennial. According to a news release, entries were accepted through the June 14 Flag Day deadline before members of the Orange Beach Garden Club judged the nominated mailboxes.

Organizers said the challenge drew an enthusiastic response from the community with more than 30 officially nominated mailboxes. Since the deadline, additional patriotic displays have appeared throughout the city, adding color to neighborhoods while showcasing community pride and love of country.

"We congratulate all of the participants and those who submitted nominations," said President of the Orange Beach Garden Club Sandra Reed in the release. "The enthusiasm shown by residents made this inaugural event a tremendous success and contributed to the beautification of our city."

All three winning entries were located in the East Orange Beach neighborhood.

Sandra Sharpless earned first place for "Celebration of Freedom." The award included $76 from the Orange Beach Garden Club, a City of Orange Beach goodie bag and a sign displayed at the mailbox.

Joye Pendley received second place for "Classic 4th of July." The prize included $50 from the Orange Beach Garden Club, a City of Orange Beach goodie bag and a sign at the mailbox.

Sheranne McMurdo took third place for "Yankee Doodle Dandy Dog." The award included $25 from the Orange Beach Garden Club, a City of Orange Beach goodie bag and a sign at the mailbox.

The Orange Beach Garden Club and the City of Orange Beach thanked everyone who participated and submitted nominations, saying the creativity and patriotic spirit displayed throughout the community helped make the inaugural Great American Mailbox Challenge a memorable event that commemorated America's 250th birthday.