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This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
KPCC Archive

Rancho Verde Crimson Regiment Marches Into The New Year – And The Rose Parade

By  Carla Javier
Published Dec 31, 2019 3:11 PM
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Bands from around the country and around the world apply for the chance to perform in the world-famous Rose Parade.

This year, one of the bands who will march down Colorado Boulevard is the Rancho Verde Crimson Regiment. They come to Pasadena from Moreno Valley in the Inland Empire.

They got the good news last year. 

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Since then, the band has been busy, both preparing for their performance, and raising funds through activities like a 10k run.

We caught up with the band as they played Bandfest earlier this week. Here's what they said:

Honglac Hathuc, band director: 

Over the season, we've put in about 700 to 800 hours of practice. Once Christmas came, we were at eight hour days until we were ready to go. We're marching the track for three to four miles at a time ...

Being a teacher, watching my students succeed has been the joy of my life ... I've seen them get closer and closer as the process has gone on throughout the year. They become more and more of a family. They rely on each other. They depend on each other. They support each other, and that's what's the most beautiful thing is about this process so far.

Evelyn Berrum, color guard member and Rancho Verde High 12th grader:

I found out that I was going to the Rose Parade last year, so on New Year's, I woke up early in the morning to watch the parade, and I remember telling my parents, "That's going to be me next year." It's an honor to be one of the members on the team this year with the rest of my team and friends ...

It's always going to be one of those moments that I could look back to and smile at – especially knowing all the practice paid off in the end. Instead of going on my school breaks, I went to practice to practice for the Rose Parade, and I don't regret it at all.

To listen to the story as it aired on the radio, click the blue play button above. 

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