Fundraisers and community events are being planned in conjunction with the 2008 Armed Forces Tribute that took place in Ashe County Park last month. Funds are still needed to help cover the costs of putting on this salute to the Armed Forces and local veterans and active troops.

Organizer Vicky Moody is seeking volunteers to help with the planning of these fundraisers and events. If you would like to help, come to a meeting on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. at the West Jefferson Coffee House on the back street.

Some ideas include a barbecue/chili cookoff partnered with the Ashe County Farmers Market on the day of the Holiday Parade when a holiday market will take place, a “chickenque” at the American Legion Ballfield in Lansing with an afternoon of music, and a dinner prior to a Nov. 10 concert at Ashe Civic Center featuring the Langley Air Force Base Heritage Aire Ensemble.

The Air Force group offers Celtic and traditional Scottish Highlands music in full Highland dress. They entertained the troops in the Middle East last October. They are performing in Chapel Hill on Nov. 9 and contacted Moody about performing in Ashe County on Nov. 10. The concert will be free admission with limited tickets per person. Josh Roten with Badger Funeral Home and Ashelawn Memorial Chapel & Gardens has agreed to sponsor the event and other sponsors are sought. Accommodations for some of the ensemble members is needed. A wine and cheese pre-concert event is being planned at Buffalo Tavern Bed & Breakfast. The ensemble may also perform at a local school that day.

For more information about the annual Armed Forces Tribute and how you can help, go online to www.AsheCountyArmedForces.org or call 877-2552.