ROCHELLE — Calling all Rochelle Township High School Marching Band alumni — you are all invited to participate in the 2018 Homecoming Game Marching Band show on Friday, Sept. 28.

Word spread earlier this week after the launch of a new Facebook page, “Rochelle TWP HS Alumni Band,” by RTHS band director Ron Duval, and shown on the school’s daily announcements Wednesday.
Duval said the reunion is something he had thought about. His predecessor, Terry Roderick, had contacted Duval last summer with the idea to have the event in the fall. After a discussion, the date was set for the 2018 Homecoming football game.
Anyone who has ever worn a uniform and marched in the band is invited to participate. Roderick, currently residing in Florida, is looking forward to coming back to the ‘Hub City’ for the event.
Duval replaced Roderick who became the principal at Rochelle Middle School for two years before returning to RTHS as principal.
Although in the preliminary stages, Duval said he is planning to provide a group rehearsal and time to reminisce before the show will be performed between the freshman/sophomore game and the varsity game. He is planning on providing a meal and/or reception type event for all attendees.

Alums respond
Shortly after the call, alums have been responding enthusiastically. Vicki Snyder-Chura relayed several of the social media posts via the announcements at the school.
Pam Barnes Brucey, RTHS Class of 1974, said the event is a “dream come true,” and thrilled at the thought of it.
Several members from the class of 1979 have responded including Janaan Mickey, Julie Kump Watt, Barbara Meisenheimer Mitchell, Karen McCaslin Combs, and Steve Erwin.
Alumni from the classes of 1981, 1982, 1985, 1986, 1989, 2002, 2016, and most recently, Druw Reish from the class of 2017 plans to attend.
The announcement also included classmate Kain Altepeter asking, “What’s a marching band without brass? Count me in.”
Duval agrees with many that have posted to the Facebook page.
“It is long overdue,” “Can’t wait!” “Best idea ever! And the list goes on,” Duval remarked, quoting the posts. “We have alumni responding from as far away as Florida making their plans to attend.”
“If you played in the band or twirled flags or rifles, check out the Facebook page and continue checking as plans unfold,” added Duval.
Anyone interested in attending is asked to contact Duval at rduval@rthsd212.org.
The show’s music will be mailed to anyone wishing to brush up on their instrumental talents.