Poland Rotary is hosting the 24th annual Chili Open

The Poland Rotary is kicking of its annual Chili Open Golf Classic event with a dinner and auction on Jan. 29 and golf classic on Feb. 27 to benefit local charities.

The fundraising event began in the Valley in the mid 1980s, after several Rotary members participated in a similar event in Akron.

Over the years, the Open has grown successfully, raising more than $1 million for about 25 local charities. It has been recognized as one of the 100 best fundraising efforts and the Poland Rotary’s “Putting the Fun in Fundraising” article has been featured in The Rotarian, an international Rotary magazine.

This year, the auction will be held at the Georgetown on South Avenue at 6 p.m. Dinner will begin with appetizers. Guests will have the opportunity bid on silent auction items valued over $75. A raffle auction will also be held. Music by Steve Fazzini will be playing throughout dinner and for dancing later in the evening.

The cost for the event is $50 per person or $370 for a table of eight and includes, dinner, unlimited soft drinks, wine and beer. A cash bar will be available for other drinks.

The Chili Open Golf Classic will take place at Bedford Trails Golf Course on Feb. 27 with tee times starting at 9 a.m. It is a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors, eat chili and spend time with good friends. Admission will be $25 per person or $100 for a foursome of golfers and includes nine holes of golf, food, beverages, prizes and more.

For more information and registration materials, visit the Rotary’s Web site at www.polandrotary.org or call 330-757-7014.