Elevating the Spirit: A Musical Celebration for Veterans and Seniors in Northern Minnesota
In the heart of northern Minnesota, a summer musical event is making waves, not just for its captivating performances, but for its profound impact on the local community. The Spiritwood "Forget Me Not" Foundation of Ely is hosting the second "Under The Big Top" event, a celebration that promises to uplift the spirits of veterans and seniors alike.
Harmonizing for a Cause: Empowering Veterans and Seniors through Music
Raising Funds for Vital Programs and Renovations
The "Under The Big Top" event is more than just a musical extravaganza; it's a platform to raise funds for the Veterans on the Lake Resort, an organization dedicated to supporting disabled veterans and their families. Donna Surface, a key figure with the Spiritwood Foundation, explains the event's purpose: "We erect a giant circus tent that seats 500 people, and all of the proceeds will benefit Veterans on the Lake and their programs for disabled veterans and all the amazing renovations they're doing on the resort to accommodate disabled veterans and their families."The event's lineup is a testament to the diverse musical talents of the region, featuring the likes of Monroe Crossing, Pat and Donna Surface & American Pie, and LaPlant Road. As Donna Surface enthusiastically describes, "The event culminates in a gigantic jam," promising a truly electrifying finale.
Fostering a Safe and Supportive Environment
Beyond the musical performances, the "Under The Big Top" event serves a deeper purpose – to create a safe and nurturing environment for veterans and seniors in the community. Donna Surface elaborates on the Spiritwood Foundation's mission, stating, "We have done everything from fixing equipment on Veterans on the Lake to funding fishing trips for veterans living in veterans homes, we have built gazebos for assisted living so that there's a safe environment for those with moderate memory care issues to walk around in a safe environment."The foundation's commitment to supporting veterans and seniors extends far beyond the confines of the event, as Donna Surface explains, "Pat and I started it when my father died of Alzheimer's Disease and since 2007, we have been raising money to help caregivers, assisted living, communities in need of memory care, veterans, and seniors through musical events like we're doing this weekend."
A Celebration of Community and Resilience
The "Under The Big Top" event is more than just a fundraiser; it's a celebration of the resilience and strength of the local community. By bringing together musicians, veterans, and seniors, the event fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, creating a space where everyone can come together to enjoy the power of music and support one another.As musician Pat Surface eloquently describes, the event promises a truly unforgettable experience, with "dueling fiddles, too many guitars to count." The energy and enthusiasm of the performers are sure to captivate the audience, leaving them uplifted and inspired.Tickets for the "Under The Big Top" event are still available, and the organizers encourage everyone to come out and be a part of this remarkable celebration. By supporting this event, attendees can not only enjoy a night of exceptional music but also contribute to the betterment of the lives of veterans and seniors in the community.
