The Dawson County High School Tiger Pride Marching Band will ring in 2013 with style after making its national debut on New Year's weekend.

In mid-September, the band was officially invited to perform at the nationally-televised Chick-fil-A Bowl in Atlanta.

"This is a rare opportunity for the kids of our DCHS marching band," said Denny Putlak, father of a band member.

"In addition to performing during the halftime show, the band will also march in the Chick-fil-A Bowl parade and participate in the field show competition."

Band director Ryan Zwemke said everyone is "really excited."

"The band will be learning a new set of music and the color guard will learn a new routine to perform both before and during the game," he said.

The 66-member band will perform in conjunction with other pre-selected high school marching bands from across the country.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for our marching band to represent not only our school, but Dawson County. We hope everyone will support the kids," Putlak said.

Since the cost per participant is an average of $300, the students are hosting numerous fundraisers to raise the needed $17,000 total.

The band will host an all-you-can-eat pancake dinner at McDonalds from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 9 for $5 per person.

The event will also have door prizes and entertainment for guests.

In addition, the marching band is hoping to host a benefit concert. More details are to follow.

For more information or to contribute to the band, call Zwemke at (706) 265-6555.