Children and laughter are two key ingredients to a successful holiday season.
The Oakland County Sportsman’s Club is sure to spur on children’s laughter by hosting its 6th annual Toys for Tots Event on Dec. 4 from 4?9 p.m. to support the United States Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.
Entertainment includes two stages of live music and emcee John O’Leary of 94.7 WCSX.
This year’s music lineup features Charlie Allen Martin (formerly of the Silver Bullet Band) with the Urban Nomads who play many classic rock favorites by groups such as Bad Company and REO Speedwagon.
‘It’s a yearly thing I do and (the Urban Nomads) have been my band for this. In the three years I’ve been doing it, the event has got a lot more focused? The people who attend are into the cause and they collect a great amount of toys,? said Martin.
Another act, Phil Treais Group, made up of local musicians will play original music they call ‘Groovetron Music.?
‘Groovetron is made up of music from all over the spectrum,? said Treais. ‘I’m in the middle of Tom Petty meets The Band meets Bob Dylan meets Chuck Berry.
‘This is the first time we’re playing there and we’re really excited. It sounds like a good event with the two stages and emcee O’Leary there.?
Other groups appearing include The Skee Brothers, Terrie Lea and the Mustangs, Targus and Tri-power.
In addition to the entertainment, there is a cash bar and food items. Cover charge for the event is one new unwrapped toy or a $10 donation. All contributions go to the U.S. Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.
According to the their Web site, Toys for Tots began in Dec. 1947 when the wife of a Marine Reserve Major Bill Hendericks made a doll and asked him to deliver it to an organization that would give it to a needy child. Unable to find an organization, Hendericks and members of the Los Angeles Marines Reserve unit collected toys, distributing them to needy children. The following year, the U.S. Marines Corps Reserve adopted the program and distributed toys to children in 200 communities around the world.
The Oakland County Sportsmen’s Club is located at 4770 Waterford Road. For more info call 248-623-0444.