Hey Ya’ll!  Food Network celebrity chef Paula Deen has been chosen as the grand marshal of the 2011 Rose Parade in Pasadena.  The announcement came Tuesday from the Tournament of Roses organization.

The 63-year-old cookbook author and chef will ride in the 122nd parade and will also have the honor of tossing the coin before the kickoff of the 97th Rose Bowl game on January 1, 2011.

Deen said: “The parade and game have been longtime traditions at my house, and serving as grand marshal is a dream come true.”

The festival of flower-covered floats and marching bands has been a mainstay since 1890.

Other famous grand marshal’s have included Shirley Temple, President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Bob Hope and President Richard M. Nixon. In 2009 the honor was bestowed upon Cloris Leachman and last year hero pilot Sully Sullenberger rode atop the grand marshal’s float.

Paula is known for her wild sense of humor and of her escapades have gone viral on YouTube.  She was hit by a flying ham in one incident and her pants fell down during a live show.

Photo:  WENN

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