Palatine American Legion to hold blood drive Feb. 4

Palatine American Legion Post 690 is holding a blood drive to help offset an emergency shortage of blood in conjunction with Vitalant Blood Donation from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at the American Legion 122 W. Palatine Road, Palatine.

Post 690 will be conducting the blood drive upstairs in its banquet room.

"Appointments are recommended, but not mandatory. You can make an appointment at vitalant.org using the code 10053458," said Eileen McKevitt, project chairwoman. "Bring your ID with you to your appointment and make sure you eat and hydrate before you arrive."

The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veteran's organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation's largest veteran's service organization, committed to mentoring and sponsorship of youth programs in its communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting a strong national security, and continued devotion to fellow service members and veterans.

The Palatine Chapter holds its monthly general meeting at 7:30 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at the American Legion Hall on Palatine Road in Palatine.

For information on the American Legion, any of its sponsored events or for membership, write to the American Legion, 122 W. Palatine Road, Palatine, IL 60067; call (847) 359-1606; email palatinepost690@gmail.com; or visit alpost690.us.