Rose Parade’s ‘turning crew’ captain is the unsung hero of event’s famous ‘TV corner’

On a past New Year’s Day, a teammate of Jim Gruettner’s on the Rose Parade’s “turning crew” handed out pairs of red gloves.

At the time, it was just a nice gesture from a colleague, who had spotted the accessories while shopping for an upcoming ski trip. And the bright-colored gloves contrasted nicely with the crew members all-white suits.

Gruettner, a nearly 50-year veteran volunteer with the Tournament of Roses, has transformed his pair of red gloves into something of a trademark.