For the Ironton High School Million Dollar Marching Band, the new school year will continue much in the same vein as the one that ended in May: Fundraising.

The musical side of Tigertown has been invited to perform at halftime at the 2013 Bowl Championship Series national title game in Miami. The band is one of only a dozen chosen for the honor.

“For the kids, this is an opportunity most of them will never get again,” band director Jeff Sanders said. “It’s a once in a lifetime experience and it’s always exciting to represent your school and your community.”

Thus far fundraising efforts have netted approximately $15,000; the band needs another $60,000 by Thanksgiving to pay for the 90 students and 15 chaperones and staff who are making the five-day trip.

Sanders said in addition to the fundraisers last school year, there are plans for several more money-making events including sales of cookie dough, entertainment coupon books, strawberries, Yankee Candles, and Florida citrus. Sanders said public and private donations are always welcomed and patrons will be recognized.

Anyone wishing to help the band can contact Sanders at jeff.sanders@tigertown.com or call Ironton High School at (740) 532-3911.

The BCS National Championship game will air Jan. 7, 2013 on ESPN and ESPN3.