The Tri-State Youth Choir is in full swing on its local tour as well as preparing for its annual mission trip.

The TSYC is comprised of approximately 70 young men and women from the area, with many churches and schools represented. Choir members minister and perform at area churches, culminating in a benefit dinner and auction. The choir then embarks on a mission trip to Florida, where members and chaperones help in group homes, rehabilitation centers and other areas where needed.

The choir is under the direction of Melissa and Ben Dishner, with help from many others, including Judy Robertson, who with her late husband Edwin, co-founded the choir over 30 years ago. Seth and Tiffany Oakes provide annual assistance, along with Danny Chumley, Daniel Chumley and Jonathan Poore. Many parents and other adults help with the effort as well.

Funding is needed each year to get the choir to the different locations. Fundraisers are held to benefit the group. There will be a yard sale to benefit the TSYC on May 5, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m., in the parking lot of Livesay Middle School in Harrogate. Anyone may rent a space or table for $20; if your proceeds are donated to the choir, the fee is waived. Proceeds go toward the choir’s mission trip this summer. To reserve a table or for more information call 606-499-4501.

Choir performances coming up include: May 6, Trinity Baptist Church in Middlesboro; May 20, Midway Baptist Church in New Tazewell; May 27, Pump Springs Baptist Church in Harrogate. All performances begin at 6 p.m.

The annual dinner and auction, the choir’s major fundraiser, will be held May 11 at Pump Springs Baptist Church. The dinner will be held from 5-7 p.m. with a short performance from the choir and the auction immediately following. Some of the items up for auction include a lake fishing trip, deep sea fishing trip and beef. Choir members are currently selling tickets for the dinner, and tickets will be available at the door as well. The baked spaghetti dinner, dessert and drink will be $6 for adults and $4 for youth.

Local deliveries will be made to businesses on May 11 as well. To order lunch, contact 865-387-0087 by May 10.

Everyone is invited to attend the performances and activities.

To make a donation to the auction, contact any director or choir member.