MADISON — The Madison Rotary Club is gearing up for Bottle Hill Day on Saturday, October 5, where they’ll once again grill hamburgers and hot dogs at Central and Cook Avenues. As in past years, Bottle Hill Tavern generously donates all the food, and the Rotary gets a helping hand from Madison High School’s Interact Club.
This year, Rotary members are also adding a second booth on Waverly Place to focus on recruiting new members. According to Rotarian Joe Smith, they’ll confirm the exact location for this booth in the coming days. The idea behind the second booth is to create a quieter space where potential members can engage in conversations without the hustle and bustle of the food stand.
“We get really busy with the food sales, so having this additional booth will allow us to talk with people about joining the Rotary,” Smith explained. “We’re just trying to increase membership.”
Smith has been managing the food operation for the Rotary at Bottle Hill Day since 2007, though he recalls the tradition going back much longer. Having lived in Madison since 1989, Smith notes that long-time residents always appreciate seeing the Rotary continuing this annual tradition.
The funds raised from the food sales are used to support grants for local charities, and for many members, the event offers a chance to reconnect with old friends. “It’s almost like a little reunion,” Smith said.
