Dec 21, 2010 at 02:40 PM
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Jelly Belly Sponsors Rose Parade's First-Ever Presidential Float

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation will kick off a year's worth of celebratory events and educational initiatives in honor of President Reagan's 100th birthday by partnering with candymaker, Jelly Belly, for the first-ever Presidential-themed float to enter the 122nd Annual Rose Parade. Jelly Belly Candy Company, the maker of President Reagan's favorite candy, is the corporate sponsor underwriting the 55-foot long, 26-foot high float in honor of the life and legacy of Ronald Reagan.


The Ronald Reagan Centennial is a year-long celebration to commemorate the 100th birthday of America's 40th President.

“President Reagan always believed America's best days were ahead. At a time when many Americans look forward to a New Year with a similar optimism and pride, the Reagan Foundation is proud to kick off the Centennial of Ronald Reagan's birth with the first-ever Presidential themed float in America's New Year Parade – the Pasadena Tournament of Roses,” says Executive Director of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation Centennial Celebration, Stewart McLaurin.

“You can tell a lot about a fellow's character by whether he picks out all of one color or just grabs a handful,” President Reagan once said. Reagan's favorite flavor was Licorice Jelly Belly beans.

“During happy or tense moments in the Reagan White House, a jar of jelly beans was never out of reach,” said Herman Rowland, Chairman of the Board of Jelly Belly Candy Company. “On behalf of my family and our employees, we are proud to be part of a years' worth of celebratory events and educational activities in honor of Ronald Reagan's 100th birthday! His contributions to America and the world were so important.”

After Ronald Reagan's presidential win and move to the White House, special Oval Office Jelly Belly jelly bean jars were commissioned for visitors to the Oval Office and Blair House. As part of the partnership, a series of presidential Jelly Belly products are being offered by the Reagan Foundation.