The Asheville High School Band has received an invitation to play at the 2012 presidential inauguration in Washington, D.C. They're raising money for their trip with a fundraiser sponsored by Luella's Bar-B-Que tomorrow night, Friday, Sept. 21. Here are the details from their press release:

Under the tutelage of William Talley III, AHS band director, the award-winning Asheville High School Band has been invited to perform at the Presidential Inaugural Festival in January 2012. They are one of a few bands from across the country to receive such a prestigious invitation.

Their challenge now is to raise the money to pay for the chartered busses, hotel rooms, food and other expenses for the 115 band members, 2 directors, 1 principal and 12 chaperones – a cost of $85,000.

Luella’s, located at 501 Merrimon Ave. is sponsoring our Third Annual Tailgate BBQ on September 21, 2012 from 5:30pm-8:00pm. It will be held in the Asheville High School Cafeteria. The tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children 10 and under.

Luella’s will be graciously presenting the band with a gift during the event to go towards our trip.

Our biggest Fundraising Event is the 5k WALK/RUN/MARCH being held November 10th at Carrier Park on Amboy Road. The cost per runner is $25.00 with a youth run for children 10 and under for $10.

We are also in need of sponsorship from your organization for our upcoming Band Aid 5K on November 10, 2012 at Carrier Park in Asheville. We have a web site http://www.ashevillehighbands.com for more information about the BBQ Tailgate, Band Aid 5 K Race and our message. Please feel free to contact me directly at janet7333@charter.net or call me, Janet Everson at 828-423-6562.