Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club Chili Cook-Off Set For March 7th

ALTON – After a one-year hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club’s 36th Annual Chili Chowdown is set for Monday, March 7 at Main Street United Methodist Church in Upper Alton. The popular fund-raising event features all-you-can-eat chili, a beverage, and dessert for just $9.00. Serving hours are 11 a.m. through 1 p.m. and again 4:30 p.m. through 7 p.m. Diners may eat-in or carry-out.

The secret Rotary chili recipe is guarded by event chairman Dennis Wilson. He says the recipe originated with the late Don Johnson, proprietor of DJ’s Bar and Grill in Upper Alton. Members of the Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club prepare and serve the chili.  Over the years, the Chili Chowdown has been held at a number of venues, but in recent years it has settled into its home at Main Street United Methodist Church, which affords ample parking, ease of egress, and plenty of room for diners.

Tickets for the annual Chili Chowdown are available from any member of the Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club and will also be sold at the door.  In addition, there will be a 50/50 raffle conducted during the day. The annual event raises funds for local Rotary projects, including the annual scholarships given in conjunction with the club’s Student of the Month program and to a student of industrial arts at Lewis and Clark Community College.

The Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club was chartered by Rotary International on March 1, 1921. Since that time, the club has served the Alton and Godfrey communities for over a century by exhibiting Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.” Many notable projects have been completed over the years, including a picnic pavilion at Haskell Park, the Steamboat Mural at Broadway and Henry Streets, the statues of Lincoln and Douglas at Lincoln-Douglas Square, the Wadlow Statue, numerous fountains including the current fountain at State House Circle, a Habitat for Humanity House, the greenhouse at the Community Supported Garden, and coming later this year, Alton-Godfrey Rotary Park at Third and Easton Streets in Alton.

The club meets on Monday evenings at 6 p.m. in the meeting room at Gentelin’s, except for the 3rd Monday of the month when the meeting is held at other locations. Visitors are welcome.