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Manning High School's Golden Pride Marching Band has been picked to march in the parade following President-elect Obama’s swearing in on January 20th.

Of the nearly 50 bands enlisted, Manning's is the only band picked from South Carolina, and one of only two from S.C., N.C., and Ga.

The band has to pay their own way to the inauguration, and band director Ray Francis is looking for some help. Want to help? You can send a check to Manning High School Band, 2155 Paxville Highway, Manning, S.C., 29102.

Update December 21: The Post and Courier has followed up and chats a bit more about how the band got picked, and how they still need to raise $27,000 more to get there.

It's a good story, go check it out. -- They also have a decent video and a nice photo gallery.

Update December 25: Looks like they're halfway there, and need $20,000 more. Go band, go!