Arlington Heights concert to help send instruments to troops

On Saturday, Oct. 22, the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 208 will host the fourth annual Operation Happy Note fundraiser at the American Legion Post, 121 N. Douglas Ave., Arlington Heights.

The event is being coordinated by a local band, The 208’s, whose American Legion members have worked directly with the founders of Operation Happy Note, Barb and Steve Baker of Osakis, Minn., for the past four years. Their goal is to raise money to cover the high cost of shipping musical instruments to our troops serving around the globe. The Bakers have received an average of 200 requests each month for instruments and postage remains the greatest need to fulfill those requests from their inventory of donated instruments. Last year, the Post 208 fundraiser brought in donations exceeding $5,000 and made it possible to ship close to 100 instruments (guitars, violins, banjos, keyboards, etc.) to U.S. service personnel throughout the world #8212; including Iraq and Afghanistan.In addition to the 208#146;s, three other local groups will perform a variety of blues, rock #146;n#146; roll and classic tunes from the #146;60s at this year#146;s event. Tickets are $15 and available in advance at the Post or at the door on Oct. 22. The music begins at 6 p.m. with a cash bar, raffles and complimentary food available throughout the evening. Come and enjoy a night of live music, knowing that you are helping to bring the joy of music to our dedicated men and women serving overseas. Learn more about the work of Operation Happy Note at www.operationhappynote.com.Ÿ Send Your news to nbrcalendar@dailyherald.com.