PASADENA, Calif. -- The 1985 Tournament of Roses Parade will be led by a float carrying the actual torch of the Statue of Liberty, it was announced Thursday.
The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation said the torch, which was removed in ceremonies July 4, is being replaced as part of major restorations of the statue before centennial celebrations in 1986.
Lee Iacocca, chairman of the restoration program, said the showing of the torch at the annual Pasadena parade 'will thrill millions of people and also show them how much the monument needs their help.'
The float leading the parade will be sponsored by Hilton Hotels.
The torch will serve as the centerpiece of a 55-foot long float, titled 'Sweet Land of Liberty,' a floragraph made up of 22 varieties of seeds and petals featuring the Lady's face.
