The Union Pines Marching Vikings will be hosting the 19th annual Viking Classic marching band competition on Saturday, Oct. 22, from 1 to 9:30 p.m. at Union Pines High School. >

Admission to the event is $5 and several concessions will offer a variety of food. >This is a major fundraiser that will enable the Marching Vikings to purchase much needed new instruments, equipment and to cover transportation costs, another large expense. >There will be 20 bands in competition from across the state, ranging from Class A to Class AAAA. >

The opening ceremonies will begin at 1:15 p.m., and the first band will perform at 1:30 p.m. Many bands will follow, with an awards ceremony at 8:30 p.m. The Tom Bernett Swing Street Band will provide entertainment at the dinner break, and the Union Pines Marching Vikings will be performing in exhibition preceding the awards ceremony. Trophies will be presented by the Union Pines Marching Viking seniors.

"This year, the Marching Vikings are proud to salute the World War II generation with the swing era jazz and patriotic melodies of the time," says director Rob Hill. "Their intent is to pay tribute to all branches of the military for their selfless service to our country."

The Marching Vikings will perform five movements from their show: "Strike Up The Band," "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," "Sing Sing Sing," taps and "God Bless America." The Marching Vikings' assistant director is Jessica Traversino, the color guard instructor is Cori Dunn, and the percussion instructor is Tom Bernett. The 2011 student drum majors are Nolan Lea, Mac Boorman and Jacob Phillips. Captains include Charlie Holton, brass; Matthew Monroe, woodwind; Walt Welder, sideline percussion; Spencer Walden, field percussion; Bethany Durbin and Gina Flores, color guard.

The Marching Vikings have received straight superior ratings, have placed in the top three in all competitions, and have also received the People's Choice Award voted on by the audience for favorite band of the day, where up to 20 bands throughout the state have competed. This year, they have competed at Pinecrest, Western Harnett and Cape Fear, and will continue to compete at Lee County, Scotland County and Gray's Creek following the Viking Classic.

"Thanks to all the local businesses and parents that have contributed to this year's Viking Classic," says Hill.

Also, the Union Pines band students will begin their annual two-week fruit sale starting in November. The fruit will be delivered in early December. Those interested in supporting the band can contact any band member or Rob Hill at Union Pines High School. Visit the band's website at www.unionpinesband.org for information.