The Union Pines High School Ensemble has been selected by the Festival of States Concert Series, in Washington, D.C., to represent North Carolina in the 2009-2010 >Commemorative Concert Series.

The ensemble will travel to Washington, D.C., May 7-9 and perform at a number of memorial venues that have been selected for this national event. The choir was selected based on their recognition as one of the premier choirs chosen to close the Christmas Show at Epcot. The choir has had the distinct honor of being selected for six years to participate in this prestigious series, under the direction of Cathy McCanless.

"For our students to be selected for the sixth time is a tremendous accomplishment," McCanless says. "They have worked hard for this recognition, and we are all very proud of them."

>Community members are encouraged to participate with and support the ensemble by becoming a patron.

"We are accepting donations of all sizes, and appreciate your support," says McCanless.

Send donations to Cathy McCanless, Union Pines High School, 1981 Union Church Road, Cameron, NC 28326.