WASHINGTON, Oct. 18 (UPI) -- U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor Tuesday was named Grand Marshall of the 2006 Rose Parade and Rose Bowl game in Pasadena, Calif.
O'Connor will lead the 117th annual Rose Parade on Jan. 2 and toss the coin to start the college championship Rose Bowl Jan. 4.
The 2006 parade with the theme, "It's Magical," is taking place on Jan. 2 because it is never held on Sunday, organizers said in a news release.
Tournament of Roses President Libby Evans Wright made the announcement in a Washington rose garden.
O'Connor said she had fond memories of watching the annual New Year's parade as a child.
"The experience was indeed magical and I have kept it with me," she said. "I'm looking forward to sharing this parade with my grandchildren."
O'Connor says she is stepping down from the court as soon as a successor is confirmed.
