PASADENA, CA. (January 18, 2008) – In a ceremony today, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association’s Board of Directors confirmed Ronald H. Conzonire (Corky) as President for the 2008-2009 Tournament year. Conzonire will provide leadership for the 120th Rose Parade and the 95th Rose Bowl Game® on Thursday, January 1, 2009.

President Conzonire revealed Hats Off To Entertainment as the theme for the 120th Rose Parade. “I chose Hats Off To Entertainment as the theme for the 2009 Rose Parade because the Rose Parade is a collection of America and the world’s great entertainers, both past and present,” says Conzonire. “With such amusing Grand Marshals as Carol Burnett, Bill Cosby, Bob Hope, Kermit the Frog, Emeril Lagasse, George Lucas, Mickey Mouse, Regis Philbin, Fred Rogers, Shirley Temple and John Williams serving in the past, and with the wonderful bands, float riders and equestrians that participate every year, the 2009 festivities will pay tribute to all that is entertainment. In its many forms, entertainment touches all of our lives. It brings family and friends together and it brings joy to people everywhere.”

“Each year, the Tournament of Roses adds new entertainment elements to the Parade, and delivers a fun-filled, family-oriented celebration of the New Year,” he says. “I am honored to be leading the team of 935 volunteer members who work so diligently to continue to evolve the Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl Game into events that are responsive to the needs of our viewers, broadcasters and sponsors while continuing to entertain us all.”

Corky Conzonire has been a volunteer member of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association since 1987 and was elected to the Executive Committee in 2001. Throughout his extensive Tournament career, Conzonire has served on and chaired various committees including Budget and Finance, Community Affairs, Coronation, Float Construction, Formation Area, Membership, Music, Parade Operations, Post-Parade, Queen & Court and Special Events, among others. He has also served on the Tournament of Roses Foundation Board.

In addition to Conzonire’s many years of service with the Tournament of Roses, he has been actively involved with numerous community organizations. He is currently a member and former president of the Pasadena Optimist Club, and is active with the San Marino City Club, International Council of Shopping Centers and the California Restaurant Association. He was a board member of the Pasadena Quarterback Club. Professionally, Conzonire is the Chairman of the Board for the C&J Food Company, which owns and operates 10 restaurants in Southern California.

Conzonire was born in Los Angeles, Calif. He and his wife, Marilyn, have been married for 45 years and have resided in San Marino, Calif. for 32 years. The Conzonires have two children, Jodi and Joseph, and five grandchildren. Conzonire enjoys sporting events such as tennis, golf and skiing, movies, plays, reading and most of all, spending time with his grandchildren.

The 120th Rose Parade themed Hats Off To Entertainment will take place Thursday, Jan. 1, 2009 at 8 a.m. (PST) featuring majestic floral floats, high-stepping equestrian units and spirited marching bands showcasing the best in entertainment. Following the Rose Parade, at 2 p.m. (PST), the 95th Rose Bowl Game will feature an exciting match-up between two championship teams, once again showcasing the best of collegiate football. For additional information on Tournament of Roses please visit the official website at www.tournamentofroses.com.