#Champions for Children Gala

[distantlaughter]

"My life belongs to me"

By Cathrin Gilbert for Die Zeit, 8 December 2016 (x)

From the very beginning, Nico Rosberg was a stranger to the laws of Formula 1. What's amazing is not that he's quitting now, but that he's lasted this long.

Let's not fail again, thinks Nico Rosberg. It's the last race of the season, late November, Abu Dhabi, 32 degrees. The asphalt is sweating, and so is Rosberg. The wind whirls desert sand across the track. Rosberg can't help but think back to the race two years ago, when he narrowly lost to his teammate Lewis Hamilton. Who cares about second place in a world championship? Back then, after the defeat, his wife Vivian took him in her arms, he cried, promised to make it next year with the fulfillment of his life's dream: to become world champion for once.

Perhaps this dream was the only thing that belonged to Nico Rosberg in recent years. His name, his face, his talent had become a brand. A money machine that brought millions in profits not only to Rosberg himself, but also to Mercedes and Formula 1. The price he paid for it: a life he was never really cut out for. Polarized at risk. Clocked to the rhythm of Formula 1: sleep, eat, train, abstain.

Never before has it taken a racing driver so long to become world champion

While Rosberg is sitting in his race car in Abu Dhabi, he hears a voice over the radio link. "Nico, it's getting tight! You have to overtake Max Verstappen!" his engineer shouts. Damn, thinks Rosberg, "Mad Max" of all people, 19 years young, a highly talented racing driver who stops at nothing. At the Grand Prix in Mexico, Verstappen touched him, so hard that it was almost over for Rosberg in the first corner.

Never before has a racing driver taken so long to become world champion as Nico Rosberg. He tried in vain for nine years. He was never an attacker, always driving in the slipstream and trying to avoid risk. Now, in Abu Dhabi, if he wants to win the title, he has to do what he shied away from for years: attack at the right moment.

Rosberg waits one lap, then pushes his Mercedes past "Mad Max." An hour later, after 205 races and 23 victories, he has finally done it: Nico Rosberg is world champion.

Just five days later, he ends his career, at the age of 31. As an explanation, he writes on his Facebook page, "For 25 years in racing, it has always been my dream, my one big goal, to become Formula One world champion." He mentions "all the work, the pain, the renunciation." Now, he says, he has reached the summit. It feels right to leave.

On Monday evening this week, Rosberg is back in the car. This time in London, without a helmet. His suit is not made of fireproof aramid fiber, but of fine blue fabric with pinstripes. A chauffeur drives him from the hotel to an honorary gala at the British Racing Drivers' Club, a club for old British men, among whom Rosberg, with an estimated fortune of 40 million euros, is exceptionally not the richest. The gala dinner is one of many obligatory events Rosberg has to attend after winning the title: on Tuesday he visits his sponsor in Kuala Lumpur, Wednesday he travels to his birthplace Wiesbaden, Thursday to the Mercedes racing factory in Brackley, Friday to the Automobile Association in Vienna, Saturday to the Mercedes plant in Sindelfingen and the "A Heart for Children" gala in Berlin, and finally to Monaco, where he lives. Jackets and bags pile up on the back seat, the world championship trophy lies in the trunk, a heavy colossus, he drags it along to all his appointments.

Before the future can begin, he has to work off the past; after all, he is still employed by Mercedes. He earns 15.72 million euros there per season. For the Mercedes brand and for the Nico Rosberg brand, the weeks after victory are decisive. A Formula 1 racing driver only becomes visible at the moment of triumph, and only then can he be marketed well. Fans can identify better with the smile of a winner than with the technical data of the F1 W07 Hybrid, 1.6-liter V6 engine, turbocharger - that's the name of the race car in which Rosberg drove to the title. The fact that he is announcing his retirement in these very weeks is something of a total meltdown for Mercedes.

"When I explained my decision to my wife, she laughed and said, 'You'll never do it,'" he says. He had felt the desire to quit since the beginning of September. "It was funny: the thought of quitting motivated me, but at the same time I couldn't give it too much space, otherwise I wouldn't have been able to concentrate properly."

In the back seat of the sedan, Rosberg looks even slimmer than his 67 kilograms would suggest. It's hard to imagine that this frail man can race toward the apex of a curve at 360 kilometers per hour and keep a 700-kilogram race car under control. He would so love to sleep now, he says. In the last few weeks of the season, he has been able to do that less and less, "because of the pressure." The lack of sleep has turned the whites of his eyes red. His skin is pale, and sometimes his voice fails him. But if there's one thing he's learned in his career, "it's to persevere."

Rosberg's path to racing was preordained. Father Keke became Formula One World Champion in 1982, three years before Nico was born. When the son was a year old, the father quit. "Isn't it funny, my daughter is one now, too," Rosberg says. At the age of six, he drove his first go-kart race. The father kept the time. Rosberg began looking at the world through the slit of a helmet. He had doubts about whether he would really make it to the top, he says. But the question of an alternative never arose.

When he gives TV interviews, he talks slowly, in platitudes. Now he speaks quickly, without fear, pointedly. "For years it was written: 'Nico is too soft! He's too tough! Now I can just answer freely: I'm just right." Or: "Sure, I could still drive on, try to defend the title. But why? It doesn't get any more beautiful than this." The limo steers past Notting Hill Gate. He continues to talk. "If you're part of this racing business, you belong to Formula One and your team," he says. There's little room for self-determination, he says. "But my life belongs to me."

Rosberg has 2,563,762 Facebook friends. Besides his wife, he says he has three friends who really know him with all his fears and longings. Of course, his life up until now has also included his "racing family." He has done everything not to disappoint them, he says. "If it had just been up to me, I would have preferred to take my time until Christmas announcing my retirement," he says, "but I couldn't have done that to the team." He said he wanted to give them planning security.

In competitive sports, family is one thing. You get a lot of support - but rarely without expectations. Rosberg learned what happens when you don't live up to them over the weekend. Niki Lauda, head of the Mercedes team's supervisory board, publicly reprimanded his behavior. Rosberg should have warned the team, he said. Where would they stand now? He added that this was causing a huge amount of uncertainty. Rosberg says: "I don't understand what got into Niki's head. He must have misunderstood something." He says he was one of the first to inform the Mercedes team boss of his resignation. "He understood my decision."

There are probably no two people in Formula One more different than Nico Rosberg and Niki Lauda. Lauda, 67, won three world championship titles between 1971 and 1985. In the process, he crashed and almost burned to death in his race car. He fell into a coma with lung burns and burns - 42 days later he was back in a race car. Lauda's return after his accident made him a hero; his drive was to fight. Rosberg's drive was to fulfill a personal dream. Lauda needed the public's attention, the pressure. Rosberg always tried to minimize pressure. He preferred to hide his face behind the helmet he had worn since he was six years old.

Rosberg looks as if he is collapsing under the weight of the World Cup trophy

"I've never felt such an intense adrenaline rush as I did at the race in Abu Dhabi," says Rosberg. The reason was not just "Mad Max," but his teammate Lewis Hamilton. While in the lead, he went against the team's orders and slowed down so much that he slowed down the entire race. The other drivers were able to catch up to Rosberg. Hamilton wanted to beat Rosberg for the win, hoping to win his third consecutive world championship title. After the race, Rosberg got upset about Hamilton's behavior. Today he says, "He's just a racer like everyone else." It gets quiet in the car. "We had a comparable situation in Monaco this year, but there I let him go first for the sake of the team."

Lewis Hamilton is the Robbie Williams of the sports scene, the perfect entertainer, the tattooed star who flirts with the pit girls and can become an ice-cold strategist at the decisive moment. Athletes are always able to captivate when they put themselves in the limelight. When you can see the effort, the joy, the agony. In Rosberg's case, all of this remained hidden behind his helmet. In Formula 1, he was the man without a face.

Rosberg says he received an e-mail from his engineer two days after winning the title in Abu Dhabi. Subject: "Timetable 2017.” As early as this week, it was supposed to start again: sleep, eat, train. Like being on a hamster wheel.

He gets out of the limousine. The room of the Racing Drivers' Club glows in blue neon light. Gentlemen in black suits sit at the tables. A montage of the 2016 impressions is shown on a screen: Rosberg jumping out of his Mercedes after the victory, Rosberg passing "Mad Max". While he waits for his entrance, he watches the video show through a crack in the door. An attendant presses the World Cup trophy into his hand. The slender Rosberg looks as if he must collapse under the weight. He smiles. Then he disappears into the applause.

#nico rosberg #nicology #my post

[honourablejester]

Champions of the Gods, Chapter 1: Defenders of Children

"Kal might not forgive her for coming. For wrangling an invitation to this Bruce Wayne’s most recent event, an environmentalist gala dedicated to the preservation of native American flora. It was a good cause, and one that Wonder Woman, or rather Princess Diana of Themyscira, was proud to support, but that wasn’t why she was here. And Kal might not forgive her for it." Diana of Themyscira, made curious and concerned by the depth of her friend's reaction to this strange city, decides to follow in his footsteps and attend a gala at Wayne Manor, as well as overhear conversations that she shouldn't. Diana is a touch more direct, than Clark, however, and winds up speaking to the inhabitants more directly.

Next in the Wings Over Gotham AU. Should be a couple chapters to this one. I'm having fun.

#fanfic #wings over gotham #batman #wonder woman #jason todd #damian wayne #superman #alternate universe #gotham city

[niamflopped]

The Sunday Times

How Harry Styles reinvented the playboy

No mud-slinging exes or disgruntled girlfriends here — the heartthrob singer is championing respectful relationships

Sarah Ditum

Sunday April 02 2023

Like every former boybander in search of a solo career, Harry Styles had to create a new identity when One Direction split in 2016. But he didn’t just reinvent himself for the post-1D era. Styles, 29, has also been credited with reinventing manhood for a modern-day audience.

“Harry Styles is rewriting the rules of masculinity on his terms,” raved the women’s magazine Grazia in 2021. The New York Times heralded Styles last year for his “liberated” take on gender. That liberated take, though, hasn’t precluded him from reportedly having lots (and lots) of girlfriends.

According to reports this week, the model and actress Emily Ratajkowski is the latest in a string of famous and gorgeous women with whom Styles has been linked. There was the late Caroline Flack, who was presenting The Xtra Factor, the sister show of The X Factor, when Styles was a contestant in 2010 (she was 32 and he was 17). After that he went out with the comedian Emily Atack for a short time.

Styles’ last public relationship was with the actress and director Olivia Wilde, who he met when he worked on the film Don’t Worry Darling.

He also dated Kendall Jenner. His relationship with Taylor Swift was brief, but creatively fertile: her album 1989 is rumoured to be shaped by their romance. There was a scattering of Victoria’s Secret models in between. Most recently, he was involved with the director Olivia Wilde (who cast him in the film Don’t Worry Darling) in the middle of a messy break-up with the father of her two children, the actor Jason Sudeikis.

There’s something quite retro about Styles’s romantic history, matching the dreamy Seventies influence in his music. His capacity for hooking up with the most impressive beauties of his era recalls the great shaggers of the 20th century — men like Mick Jagger, Warren Beatty and David Bowie, all of whom seemed to have had a cheerful kid-in-a-candy store attitude to sexual possibilities afforded by celebrity.

But serial dating can look tawdry rather than glamorous in the 21st century. Think of the general shudder greeting the actor Leonardo DiCaprio’s endless procession of young girlfriends, none of whom seem to last beyond their 25th birthday.

So how does Styles do it? He has always rejected the playboy label, and his version of maturity is different from the laddish one espoused by previous teen idols turned adult stars. See Robbie Williams, obliterating his Take That pinup status in 1995 by partying with Oasis at Glastonbury. Or Justin Timberlake, making vulgar comments about his ex Britney Spears in 2002 to kill off his nice-guy ’N Sync image.

Styles is known for his flamboyant looks and defying masculine conventions.

No such boorishness for Styles. He is, instead, the gold standard of modern sensitivity. He wore a dress on the cover of Vogue, and a sheer blouse and pearl earring to the Met Gala in New York. In the film My Policeman, he played one half of a tender gay romance, and he’s lent his support to causes including Black Lives Matter and LGBT rights. At one concert, he supported a fan in coming out to her mother, leading the whole audience in a chant of: “Tina, she’s gay.”

This image has helped to make him staggeringly successful: his 2022 album Harry’s House broke streaming records, won best album at the Brits and the Grammys and spawned a 15-night residency at New York’s Madison Square Garden. Coupled with his delicate handsomeness, this may explain the queue of girlfriends.

Like his ex Swift, Styles has pointed out that he doesn’t actually date more than the average person his age — he just attracts more attention when he does. In the case of Ratajkowski, one photograph of the two kissing in the street in Tokyo has been worldwide news for days.

Styles also dated Kendall Jenner. He likes to remain on good terms with his exes.

In response, Styles maintains the gentlemanly habit of rarely discussing his love life. It’s not far off the old music industry wisdom that heartthrobs should avoid relationships to keep themselves notionally available to their fans. But it also protects him. Having been famous since he was 16, Styles has had to learn to draw a line between his public and private selves to survive. And it protects the woman he’s with from jealous fans, who perceive any girlfriend as a rival to be attacked. A corner of his fandom can be “crazy” and “mean”, he has said.

Styles’s respect for his partners is in line with contemporary manners. Timberlake initially gained credibility for trashing Spears but by 2021, at the peak of #FreeBritney outrage, upset fans pushed him into a grovelling apology nearly 20 years on. Chivalry is back in fashion.

Styles also gets points for his apparent fearlessness around women who are impressive on their own terms. While the age gap with Flack raised eyebrows at the time, he’s subsequently been linked to multiple older, accomplished women.

Unlike a lot of famous men, he seems happy to be with an equal — or even, in the case of Swift, her muse. He also keeps things amicable post-break-up and has made friendly appearances with Swift and Jenner.

Beatty is also known for keeping his exes close. “What happens is fame gives you access, so you’re lucky enough to be exposed to these very admirable women,” the actor said in 2016. “Not just physically beautiful, but great people and talented and intelligent people.”

Harry Styles hasn’t reinvented masculinity but maybe he’s rediscovered the trick that separates a great lover from a playboy: he actually seems to like women, as well as wanting to sleep with them.

#harry styles the times #the times harry article #harry styles #louis tomlinson #niall horan #zayn #liam payne

[wellthatwasaletdown]

https://www.tumblr.com/wellthatwasaletdown/713601858580742144/how-harry-styles-reinvented-the-playboy

I couldn't read the whole article because it's not free. But I find it funny how the title says "reinvented the playboy" while the sub headlines says he's "championing respectful relationships". Like you can't call someone a fuckboy and says he's a champion at RESPECTFUL relationships the very next thing. The oxymoron used is weak af

Here you go.

From here:

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/how-harry-styles-reinvented-the-playboy-9h36p6pd2

The Sunday Times

How Harry Styles reinvented the playboy

No mud-slinging exes or disgruntled girlfriends here — the heartthrob singer is championing respectful relationships

Like every former boybander in search of a solo career, Harry Styles had to create a new identity when One Direction split in 2016. But he didn’t just reinvent himself for the post-1D era. Styles, 29, has also been credited with reinventing manhood for a modern-day audience.

“Harry Styles is rewriting the rules of masculinity on his terms,” raved the women’s magazine Grazia in 2021. The New York Times heralded Styles last year for his “liberated” take on gender. That liberated take, though, hasn’t precluded him from reportedly having lots (and lots) of girlfriends.

According to reports this week, the model and actress Emily Ratajkowski is the latest in a string of famous and gorgeous women with whom Styles has been linked. There was the late Caroline Flack, who was presenting The Xtra Factor, the sister show of The X Factor, when Styles was a contestant in 2010 (she was 32 and he was 17). After that he went out with the comedian Emily Atack for a short time.

Styles’ last public relationship was with the actress and director Olivia Wilde, who he met when he worked on the film Don’t Worry Darling.

He also dated Kendall Jenner. His relationship with Taylor Swift was brief, but creatively fertile: her album 1989 is rumoured to be shaped by their romance. There was a scattering of Victoria’s Secret models in between. Most recently, he was involved with the director Olivia Wilde (who cast him in the film Don’t Worry Darling) in the middle of a messy break-up with the father of her two children, the actor Jason Sudeikis.

There’s something quite retro about Styles’s romantic history, matching the dreamy Seventies influence in his music. His capacity for hooking up with the most impressive beauties of his era recalls the great shaggers of the 20th century — men like Mick Jagger, Warren Beatty and David Bowie, all of whom seemed to have had a cheerful kid-in-a-candy store attitude to sexual possibilities afforded by celebrity.

But serial dating can look tawdry rather than glamorous in the 21st century. Think of the general shudder greeting the actor Leonardo DiCaprio’s endless procession of young girlfriends, none of whom seem to last beyond their 25th birthday.

So how does Styles do it? He has always rejected the playboy label, and his version of maturity is different from the laddish one espoused by previous teen idols turned adult stars. See Robbie Williams, obliterating his Take That pinup status in 1995 by partying with Oasis at Glastonbury. Or Justin Timberlake, making vulgar comments about his ex Britney Spears in 2002 to kill off his nice-guy ’N Sync image.

Styles is known for his flamboyant looks and defying masculine conventions.

No such boorishness for Styles. He is, instead, the gold standard of modern sensitivity. He wore a dress on the cover of Vogue, and a sheer blouse and pearl earring to the Met Gala in New York. In the film My Policeman, he played one half of a tender gay romance, and he’s lent his support to causes including Black Lives Matter and LGBT rights. At one concert, he supported a fan in coming out to her mother, leading the whole audience in a chant of: “Tina, she’s gay.”

This image has helped to make him staggeringly successful: his 2022 album Harry’s House broke streaming records, won best album at the Brits and the Grammys and spawned a 15-night residency at New York’s Madison Square Garden. Coupled with his delicate handsomeness, this may explain the queue of girlfriends.

Like his ex Swift, Styles has pointed out that he doesn’t actually date more than the average person his age — he just attracts more attention when he does. In the case of Ratajkowski, one photograph of the two kissing in the street in Tokyo has been worldwide news for days.

Styles also dated Kendall Jenner. He likes to remain on good terms with his exes.

In response, Styles maintains the gentlemanly habit of rarely discussing his love life. It’s not far off the old music industry wisdom that heartthrobs should avoid relationships to keep themselves notionally available to their fans. But it also protects him. Having been famous since he was 16, Styles has had to learn to draw a line between his public and private selves to survive. And it protects the woman he’s with from jealous fans, who perceive any girlfriend as a rival to be attacked. A corner of his fandom can be “crazy” and “mean”, he has said.

Styles’s respect for his partners is in line with contemporary manners. Timberlake initially gained credibility for trashing Spears but by 2021, at the peak of #FreeBritney outrage, upset fans pushed him into a grovelling apology nearly 20 years on. Chivalry is back in fashion.

Styles also gets points for his apparent fearlessness around women who are impressive on their own terms. While the age gap with Flack raised eyebrows at the time, he’s subsequently been linked to multiple older, accomplished women.

Unlike a lot of famous men, he seems happy to be with an equal — or even, in the case of Swift, her muse. He also keeps things amicable post-break-up and has made friendly appearances with Swift and Jenner.

Beatty is also known for keeping his exes close. “What happens is fame gives you access, so you’re lucky enough to be exposed to these very admirable women,” the actor said in 2016. “Not just physically beautiful, but great people and talented and intelligent people.”

Harry Styles hasn’t reinvented masculinity but maybe he’s rediscovered the trick that separates a great lover from a playboy: he actually seems to like women, as well as wanting to sleep with them.

[churchofgladtidingsyubacity]

Join us for the "Back to America" Fundraiser Gala on Feb 2nd!

🎟️Tickets: https://sharletabassett.com/Sharleta_Bassett/fundraiser-sharleta-bassett-for-us-senate-california-2024/

It is an evening dedicated to reviving the true spirit of America with Sharleta Bassett's campaign, "Free Our Nation". It's more than a fundraiser – it's a commitment to our American values! 🎤 Our main speaker, the inspiring Tina Peters, a champion of the conservative cause. 📹 Special virtual appearance by Donné Clement! 🎙️ Stand with us alongside: Legal maven Tom Renz Progressive thinker Kelly John Walker #DadArmy Hosted by the passionate Pastor Dave & Cheryl Bryan

As senator she will: 🛡️Protect our children 🎖️Honor our veterans 🔒Secure our borders 🇺🇸Uphold the 2nd Amendment 🤝Support President Trump’s vision 📜And she is a strong constitutionalist.

#SharletaBassett #SharletaBassettUSSenate #FreeOurNation #churchofgladtidings #Senate #USSenate #california

[charlottee5]

10 Stars Who Flew The Flag For Sustainable Fashion In 2021

2021 has seen the fashion industry ramping up its efforts to reduce its impact on the planet. But it’s not just brands that are taking action, with a number of celebrities, too, flying the flag for sustainable fashion this year. Whether by wearing vintage or opting for an eco-minded designer, A-listers have a powerful role to play in influencing our shopping habits, and making conscious fashion the norm.

Bella Hadid

Bella Hadid is well-known for her love of vintage, with her penchant for archival Jean Paul Gaultier, Comme des Garçons and Stella McCartney-era Chloé only continuing to grow this year. She’s also added some more unexpected brands into the mix, including a micro skirt from Noughties favourite Abercrombie & Fitch. 

Kendall Jenner

Another JPG obsessive, Kendall Jenner has given us some of our favourite vintage looks of the year, including this printed sheer number by the French brand. The model is also a fan of eco-conscious brand Havre Studio, which restores and refits vintage men’s suits found at flea markets in Mexico City.

Rihanna

From Chanel to Dior by John Galliano, Rihanna’s shown off a series of envy-inducing vintage pieces in 2021. She’s also continued to champion New York-born and London-based designer Conner Ives, who repurposes vintage jerseys and silk scarves as part of his approach.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie is known for her environmental work, so it’s no surprise that the actor and activist has taken a conscious approach to her wardrobe this year. For a trip to Paris in July, she opted for looks from both Gabriela Hearst and Chloé, the latter of which gained B-Corp status this year. Later on, her children appeared on the red carpet wearing past looks from her wardrobe, including her 2014 Oscars gown.

Emma Watson

Another star known for her environmental activism, Emma Watson has also championed a number of eco-minded brands this year. The actor wore an upcycled Harris Reed dress to the Earthshot Prize ceremony, while opting for an Emilia Wickstead look made using recycled yarn to meet Al Gore. Watson also later chose a full-look by Scandi upcycling brand Rave Review during Cop26, the United Nations climate conference, in November.

Zendaya

Zendaya has delivered some of her best looks to date in 2021, including a series of vintage pieces – ranging from ’90s Versace to Noughties Roberto Cavalli. With the British Vogue October issue cover star revealing she’s creating an archive with stylist Law Roach, it just goes to show how a slice of fashion history can make a real statement on the red carpet.

Timothée ChalametIt’s no secret that Timothée Chalamet sets the internet alight with every look he steps out in – which is why it’s great news that he’s been championing sustainably-focused brands. They include Stella McCartney, a favourite of his, as well as pieces from Prada’s Re-Nylon range – made from discarded fishing nets and other plastic waste.

Lorde

Lorde showed her commitment to sustainable fashion by wearing not one but two eco-minded looks on the night of the Met Gala. First came the embellished separates by Emily Bode, which celebrated craft and featured charms, beads and pennies dating back to the 1890s. Then, there was the after-party dress by Collina Strada (a brand that she also chose for her “Solar Power” video).

Jaime XieBling Empire star Jaime Xie made a point of wearing vintage during fashion month, including an instantly-recognisable sculpted dress from Balenciaga spring/summer 2008, a printed dress from ​​Versace’s menswear spring/summer 2005 collection, and a Dior spring/summer 2004 silk dress, from when the house was under the helm of John Galliano.

The Duchess Of Cambridge

Arguably the most famous repeat-wearer out there, the Duchess of Cambridge chose to rewear two Jenny Packham gowns (including one that was a decade old) for her appearances at the Earthshot Award ceremony and Royal Variety Show this year. Away from the red carpet, Kate also championed sustainability, opting for a recycled vest from Ganni during Cop26, and a top-handle bag from British brand Tusting earlier on in the year.

[sian4chatsworth]

Age

Carmen Dell'Orefice

At 85, the renowned muse Carmen Dell'Orefice is the oldest working model in the world. For 70 years she has graced catwalks and magazine covers, and inspired some of the greatest photographers and artists of the past century, from Norman Parkinson and Richard Avedon to Salvador Dali.

Carmen Dell'Orefice is an inspired choice to be guest of honour at London College of Fashion's fourth Fashion Matters Gala. An event that has been established by the esteemed institution to encourage and enable aspiring fashion students on a long and prosperous career in the industry.

"What I say to the young people who have found a little creative fire in them already is that they're not just designing a garment, it's design in a broader fashion. It's about making people love themselves," said Dell'Orefice. "I say to young artists that they are the luckiest people in the world to have their passion. When you find a society, like the LCF which is such a supportive society, they are just so lucky to have arrived in the right environment."

Kristen Mcmenamy

57-year-old model Kristen Mcmenamy offered up a particularly show-stopping moment as she closed the show in a floor-length pink gown featuring a long train that billowed in the wind as she walked.

Daphne Selfe

Daphne Selfe is the world’s oldest supermodel. She was discovered when she was just 21 years old in 1949, when she won a local modelling competition and was signed to an agency in London. Daphne took a break from modelling to raise her 3 children with her husband in Hertfordshire, but was rediscovered by the agency Models 1 at age 70 after her husband passed away.

She has an extensive modelling experience, including working with fashion powerhouses such as Gucci and Prada. Daphne has written and published a book telling the tales of her modelling adventures and has founded her own foundation - The Daphne Selfe Foundation - which collaborates with different charities and humanitarian organisations.

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell became a household name in the 90s as one of the biggest supermodels of the decade. While her primary focus nowadays is on philanthropic endeavours and working as a contributing editor of British Vogue, Naomi shows that model over 40 are still a force to be reckoned with in the modelling world. She appeared on the runway at the Versace Spring 2018 show in a stunning, slinky gold dress, proving that true beauty never ages.

Harvard Referencing:

CURTIN,L. (2016) In Conversation With Carmen Dell'Orefice. [Online] Available from: https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/fashion/fashion-news/news/a38602/the-legendary-model-reflects-on-her-career-in-an-exclusive-interview-with-harpers-bazaar/ [Accessed: 5th September 2023]

CONLON,S. (2016) LCF Enlists Carmen Dell'Orefice. [Online] Available from: https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/london-college-of-fashion-fashion-matters-campaign-carmen-dell-orefice [Accessed: 6th September 2023]

Fig 1. GETTY. (N/A) Carmen Dell'Orefice Getty. [Photograph] Available from: https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/london-college-of-fashion-fashion-matters-campaign-carmen-dell-orefice [Accessed: 6th September 2023]

ANASTASIOU, Z. (2021) Valentino champions age diversity on a fuchsia-hued catwalk at Paris Fashion Week. [Online] Available from: https://www.stylist.co.uk/fashion/valentino-catwalk-age-diversity/631193 [Accessed: 17th September 2023]

Fig 2. GETTY. (N/A) This 90's Supermodel's Feed Reminds Us Why We Fell In Love With Instagram In The First Place. [Photograph] Available from: https://graziamagazine.com/articles/90s-supermodel-kristen-mcmenamy-joins-instagram/ [Accessed: 18th September 2023]

COURTNEY, M. (N/A) Top 10 Models Over 40 Years Old. [Online] Available from: https://thephotostudio.com.au/all/modelling/female-modelling/top-10-models-over-40/ [Accessed: 17th September 2023]

Fig 3. TOSCANO, P/PA WIRE. (N/A) Daphne Selfe was photographed for the leading fashion and style magazine Vogue at the age of 70. [Photograph] Available from: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-46702287 [Accessed: 18th September 2023]

Fig 4. DEVANEY, J-GC IMAGES/GETTY IMAGES. (2021) Supermodel Naomi Campbell walking along 46th Street during the Michael Kors fashion show in Times Square, New York City, April 8, 2021. [Photograph] Available from: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Naomi-Campbell [Accessed: 18th September 2023]

[jedivoodoochile]

The Macho Man" Randy Savage and two-time SuperBowl champion Carl Banks posing together at the Children's Leukemia Foundation Gala on March 15, 1993, at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.

#macho man #randy savage #Carl Banks

[maskedinstructor]

the Masked Instructor Presents-20 Moves Which Guarantee Success---#2

SUCCESS LEAVES CLUES...

I don’t know how many years ago I heard this, but it is so very true. All one has to do is sincerely search for them. There are no secrets. You have to do the work. Years ago, I watched a man of TV extol the virtues of his program for acquiring real estate. He was so convincing that I ordered the manuscript before the charlatan finished the presentation, I panicked when the materials did not arrive at my doorstep the next day.  Finally, the package arrived. WTF !!! Who is going to read all this shit. That package was a tome of at least 500 pages. Fcuke!  I might as well go to Med School. The promise here is more realistic. Read and Do.. Easy does it. Simple and painless.

Let The Moves begin again...

13. REFLECT: What you see is who you are. Thus, you must maintain a firm, fixed and tight vision of what it is you want fully present in your mind. If you see it, you can do it

14. FEARLESS: The only thing you have to fear is fear itself. Many dreams are abandoned, terminated because people who have no idea of your exceptional greatness try to convince you that your chosen adventure is worthless, without merit.  Everything you undertake is enriching. There is nothing to lose when you gamble on you. You win or you learn. Now what is wrong with that?

15. DEDICATE: Devote time each day to self - hype, self-enrichment and encouragement. Set a specific time for your self praise. Do it religiously, consistently, passionately and conscientiously. Chat up yourself like the winner you know you are.

16. CRAFT...Know your goal and the business of your goal better than anything else in your life. I feel the word ‘VORACIOUS lurking about. That mastery will give you the confidence to proceed in spite of the difficulties, roadblocks or hardships. you will encounter.  This is the work that molds and forms you. From this you become a master. 

17. VISUALIZE: See daily the winning accomplished. Whatever you expect to happen...Whatever changes you expect to witness...Rehearse them now. You can’t lose with the stuff you use. Husband is there. The children are wildly happy with your success. All of the people who are the beneficiaries of your success are pressing the flesh with you. Your ‘THANK YOU’ speech has gone smashingly well. Attendees to your gala are still wiping tears from their eyes. After, the dinner and accolades, you announce that you are ready for the next adventure. Laughter fills the room. However, there is a hush when all in attendance realize the sincerity of your remarks. See it all. Now make it happen.

18. BEGIN.., Start today

19. Heroes: Get more heroes. Form an army of heroes to protect you from the doubters, haters, deadbeats, turkeys, drifters, loafers, idiots, imbeciles, clowns, dunces and losers who claim to know more about your life than YOU. Enlist your battalions of champions to crush the opposition and WIN.

20. TARDY: Be the first to arrive for the task. However, be tardy in leaving. Lateness has its value when dedicated to the goals for success. Stay until the job is done and longer. Create an image with you as the finisher. Time is not a problem. Tardiness is your character. 

21. REPETITION:  Study, work, labor, jobs, projects, endeavors are good for the soul. But, practice makes improvements. Just keep working and it all will fall into place. 

22. CONTRIBUTE: Make lofty goals, goods, services, measures so grand that they will contribute to society. Nothing is more rewarding than an end result  that both you and the world in which you live benefit from your extraordinary efforts

23+ BEGIN: Start today. In fact, what about right now ?

[theultimatefan]

Higashioka, Showalter, Nimmo, Sörenstam to be honored at 43rd Annual Thurman Munson Awards Dinner Feb. 7

The 43rd annual Thurman Munson Awards Dinner will benefit AHRC New York City Foundation on Tuesday night, February 7th at Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers (23rd Street at West Side Highway) in New York City, and the honorees have been announced today: New York Yankees catcher and ’21 Roberto Clemente Award nominee Kyle Higashioka; New York Mets centerfielder Brandon Nimmo; New York Mets manager and four-time Manager of the Year Buck Showalter; and LPGA champion & World Golf Hall of Famer Annika Sörenstam will all receive Thurman Munson Awards in the “Class of 2023.”

The “Thurmans” are presented to individuals for on-field excellence, community outreach, and betterment of their sport. The AHRC NYC benefit has helped to keep the memory of the legendary Yankees catcher and captain Thurman Munson alive since his untimely passing 43 years ago, while raising more than $19 million for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead richer, more productive lives.

Thurman's widow Diana Munson is an honorary chair who has supported AHRC NYC and its fund-raising efforts through the Thurman Munson Awards for four decades, and will be in attendance.

For media inquiries contact John Cirillo/Cirillo World by email at [email protected] or text 914-260-7436.

For tickets call 212-249-6188 or email [email protected]. Tickets may be purchased online at www.ahrcnycfoundation.org/munson2023

The co-Masters of Ceremonies will be FOX 5 lead sports anchor and Sports Extra host Tina Cervasio and Michael Kay, the Voice of the Yankees on YES Network and host of the Michael Kay Show on ESPN NY Radio.

Special guests for the evening will include previous Thurman Award honorees: Radio Hall of Famer and WFAN Yankees analyst Suzyn Waldman (previous Media Hero recipient), Football Giants Super Bowl champions Harry Carson, Chris Canty and Karl Nelson; as well as Thurman's teammate and two-time Yankees World Series Champion Roy White, Giants Super Bowl champ Howard Cross, YES Network personality Nancy Newman, former women’s featherweight boxing champion Heather Hardy, popular New York Radio/TV personality Sweeny Murti, WFAN Radio golf and tennis reporter Ann Liguori, and former Mets pitcher Nelson Figueroa with others to be announced.

The list of previous Thurman Munson Award recipients reads like a “Who’s Who” of sports stars for the ages including: Muhammad Ali, Arthur Ashe, Yogi Berra, Mariano Rivera, Jorge Posada, Joe Torre, Bernie Williams, Tom Seaver, Mike Piazza, Gary Carter, David Wright, Willis Reed, Patrick Ewing, Julius Erving, Jim Brown, Harry Carson, Aly Raisman, Nancy Lieberman, Theresa Weatherspoon, and Mark Messier, just to name a few.

Kyle Higashioka was a seventh-round selection by the Yankees in the 2008 MLB Draft. After battling a series of injuries early in his minor league career, Kyle made his major league debut for the Yankees in 2018 when Gary Sánchez was sidelined. After starting his major league career 0-for-22, the longest hitless streak to start a Yankee career of any position player ever, he had his first major league hit, a home run, on July 1 against the Boston Red Sox. His next two hits, on July 3 and July 4 against the Atlanta Braves, were also circuit blasts, making him the ninth MLB player since 1920 to have three home runs as his first three hits. On September 16, 2020, Higashioka hit three home runs in a game against the Toronto Blue Jays to became the 24th Yankee to hit three HR in a game. On May 19, 2021, Higashioka caught Corey Kluber's no-hitter against the Texas Rangers, the first Yankees to catch a no-hitter since Joe Girardi caught David Cone's perfect game in 1999.

Higashioka was the Yankees 2021 nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award which embodies representing the game of baseball through extraordinary character and community involvement, both on and off the field. In 2006, MLB opened its first Urban Youth Academy in Compton, CA. Among the athletes who attended the inaugural camp was Higashioka. He grew up roughly 25 miles away in Huntington Beach, looking for any and every opportunity to achieve his goal of playing professional baseball. He never forgot the impact the MLB Youth Academy had on him and the trajectory of his career. He spent numerous offseasons volunteering his time to support the social reach of the program. The academy focuses on Inner City youth, and assists after-school programs, preparing kids for any type of life, whether it's professional baseball or getting in the workforce. Kyle has embraced the causes of the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, which ensures complete post-secondary educational support and additional educational opportunities for eligible surviving children of fallen Special Operations Personnel and children of all Medal of Honor Recipients; and provides immediate financial assistance to severely wounded, ill, and injured Special Operations Personnel.

Four-time Manager of the Year Buck Showalter, in his first season at the helm of the Mets last season, led the team to a 101-win campaign en route to the best skipper trophy. During a 30-year managerial career, Showalter has amassed 1,652 victories managing the Yankees, Diamondbacks, Rangers, Orioles, and Mets. Like Thurman, Showalter was drafted by the Bronx Bombers, and is a member of the Cape Cod Baseball League Hall of Fame. (Thurman led the Chatham A's to their first league title with a .420 batting average, while Showalter, playing for the Hyannis Mets, won the league batting title with a .434 average). Showalter was an All-American and set the Mississippi State record for batting average in a season by hitting .459 during the 1977 season.

Showalter participated in the Amazin’ Mets Foundation’s second annual Homeruns & Highballs fundraiser last July, the team’s largest fundraising event of the season. AMF is committed to providing needed services and opportunities to children, families and underserved groups in neighborhoods and communities to inspire change and make a lasting impact on and off the field. On the 21st anniversary of 9/11, Showalter and the team paid tribute to the first responders during the game against the Marlins. While managing Baltimore, Buck supported the LUNGevity Foundation, a charity inspired by the Orioles late public relations director Monica Pence Barlow.

The homegrown smiling, starting centerfielder Brandon Nimmo was a first round pick by New York in the 2011 MLB draft, and made his big league debut for the Mets in 2016. The seven-year veteran enjoyed his finest season last year, recording 159 hits, 30 doubles, and 64 RBI with 580 at bats in 151 games, all career highs. His 16 home runs fell one short of equaling his lifetime best of 17 circuit blasts. During the off season, the Cheyanne, Wyoming native signed a nine-year contract with the Mets. Nimmo played for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic in 2017.

During the off season, Nimmo dressed as an elf at the Mets annual holiday party. Last season, Nimmo held a special sandlot baseball game for local Little Leaguers at Flushing’s Hinton Park on July 8 with two dozen Little Leaguers taking part. Following a pre-game pep talk, Nimmo spent much of the game pitching to the kids, playing the outfield, and giving players fist bumps when they made a good play. Nimmo has also taken part in the fundraiser Call of Duty: Warzone Charity Royale to support veterans with teammate Pete Alonso. Nimmo was named the Mets recipient of the 2022 Heart and Hustle Award, awarded to players who demonstrate a passion for the game of baseball and best embodies the values, spirit and traditions of the game, by the MLB Players Alumni Association.

Annika Sörenstam is the most celebrated and winningest female professional golfer in history as a three-time Women’s U.S. Open champion, three-time PGA champion and member of the World Golf Hall of Fame. In 2003, she achieved a career Grand Slam, winning at least once in her career each of the four tournaments recognized as major championships. She tops the LPGA’s all-time money list with earnings in excess of $22 million. In all, the native of Sweden has captured 72 official LPGA tournaments and has been named Player of the Year a record eight times.

Annika created the ANNIKA Foundation (www.annikafoundation.org) to provide opportunities in women’s golf at the junior, collegiate and professional levels while teaching young people the importance of living a healthy, active lifestyle through fitness and nutrition. It annually conducts six major golf events for aspiring junior girls throughout the world. And with the support of the Haskins Commission, the Foundation created the ANNIKA Award presented by Stifel, which is given annually to the best collegiate female golfer. Since 2014, the Foundation has also annually hosted the ANNIKA Intercollegiate presented by 3M, a college tournament featuring 12 top Division I schools. Each year, the Foundation also conducts several “Share My Passion” grass roots clinics designed to introduce kids to the game.

[naturecoaster]

Tickets Now Available for the Save Crystal River Shamrock and Roll Fundraiser

Non-profit conservation organization SAVE CRYSTAL RIVER announces the annual fundraiser “Shamrock and Roll,” a charity gala taking place from 6-10 PM on March 17, 2023, at Plantation on Crystal River. Co-hosted by Crystal Harley Davidson and Plantation on Crystal River, with generous support from aquatic restoration experts Sea & Shoreline, ticket and table donations range from $450-$2,500. Individual ticket and table contributions include a fun-packed evening, complete with a multi-course dinner, flowing beverages, live music, silent auctions and much more! As added levity, guests are encouraged to “go green to keep the waters clean” or wear their “lucky gold attire” as a dress code. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit SaveCrystalRiver.com. Save Crystal River Charity Gala on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2023 The ongoing rehabilitation, planting and protection of Crystal River requires significant funding to keep the waterways plentiful and thriving. The grandeur of this mission necessitates the community, businesses, and individuals to unite in keeping Crystal River clean, with all proceeds from the evening going directly to benefiting the mission “to restore and protect Crystal River and Florida’s waterways for future generations.” In addition, initiatives such as enhanced ecological education opportunities for children grades K-8 in Citrus County, responsible anchoring programs, as well as grass collection and repurposing efforts to feed manatees in rehabilitation centers will all benefit from the evening’s proceeds. Why Go Green to Keep the Waters Clean? Over the past ten years, Save Crystal River has championed the rehabilitation of Crystal River from a murky, Lyngbya infested waterway, unfit for vegetation growth and animal habitation into a thriving ecosystem, lush with eelgrass and reinhabited by manatees and other sea life. What began as a pilot initiative known as the Kings Bay Restoration Project (KBRP) has blossomed into the planting of over 83 acres with native sea grasses, with a goal of 93 acres to be planted by the centennial anniversary of the City of Crystal River in July 2023. Save Crystal River is in the process of permitting an additional 72 acres for restoration work on the salt marsh islands that protect the bay, a critical part of the manatee, fish, and bird ecosystem. This process of restoring the waters, planting, and protecting the eelgrass has created a plentiful food source for manatees and haven for several other aquatic species, reconfirming Crystal River’s moniker as “The Home of the Manatees.” Other facts: - The manatees in Crystal River (Kings Bay), have been documented to be among the healthiest in the State of Florida by the US Geological Survey during their annual manatee health assessments conducted in Kings Bay. - In 2021 US Fish and Wildlife Service counted about 1,200 in Citrus County alone. Many are now year-round residents since there is an abundant food supply, clean water, and a safe environment for the mothers and calves. - The KBRP has provided an enormous food supply for manatees as well as a healthy habitat and an abundant return of game fish such as snook, bass, tarpon, as well as other species such as bream and crabs. To learn more about Save Crystal River, to purchase tickets or to find out how to get involved or other ways to donate, please visit SaveCrystalRiver.com. Read the full article

[don-lichterman]

Awardees Announced for NCCF’s 2022 Gala – UNIMAGINABLE: The HeART of Community

Awardees Announced for NCCF’s 2022 Gala – UNIMAGINABLE: The HeART of Community

Heart of Community Logo On October 22, 2022, at 6:30 PM, NCCF will honor exemplary individuals, supporters, & organizations that champion the radical idea that good is ever-present. BETHESDA, MARYLAND, USA, August 30, 2022 /EINPresswire.com/ — On Saturday, October 22, 2022, at 6:30 PM, the National Center for Children and Families (NCCF) will honor exemplary individuals, supporters, and…

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[nataliacordovabuckleysource]

Natalia was awarded as hero of the year at the "Champion for Children Awards and Gala" for her contribution to the fight for the immigrant children and families! 💖

Video credits: @miztae412 (on Instagram)

I'm so glad to know her and have the opportunity to be inspired by her in such a delicate moment for humanity.

We really need more people like her in this world.

And of course we need to make our own part.

#Natalia Cordova Buckley #Monica Ramirez #Families belong together #Champion for Children #Champion for Children Awards and Gala #Immigrants #Save immigrants children #Activist #Activism #Aos cast #Agents of shield cast

[hockeyshmockey]

Lewis Hamilton

summary: Lewis Hamilton is a loyal brit through and through. what happens when he meets the youngest member of the royal family?

warnings: literally none, this was cute as fudge.. also pls pretend lewis went to the met gala in 2017, thanks

wc: 3.1k

The first time Lewis Hamilton met Princess Sophia of Windsor, they were at a UNICEF event William, Kate and herself were attending. The three of them had of course made a fuss when entering the event. Not only were their faces well known, but they were surrounded by guards which caused even more of a ruckus. 

Sophia rolled her eyes as people began to approach to greet them, sharing a look with her guard Lily who had been with the Princess since she was 22. “If we break off from the Duke and Duchess, it may be less chaotic,” Lily suggested to Sophia’s immediate agreement. 

The blonde grinned cheekily at her older brother who’s eyes screamed for help, leading her guard towards the side of the room where she recognized several friends that typically turned up at UNICEF events. “Sophia,” the girl’s friend Eva bowed her head in a show of deference before looking back up with a wicked smirk. “We haven’t seen you around since that event over in-”

“Eva, don’t talk about that,” the girl practically shivered as she recalled her night at a sports event benefiting a local children’s hospital. Let’s just say, too much champagne was drank and Lily had to drag Sophia out so she didn’t fall asleep at the table. The two women chatted for a few more minutes before Eva’s attention was caught. 

“Jenson!” she grinned turning to greet the approaching blonde. “How are you?”

Sophia smiled politely as the two spoke, turning to the man by his side. “Hello, I’m Sophia,” she introduced herself, the man’s eyes widening slightly. 

“Princess,” he murmured, taking the hand she had held out to shake and surprising her by leaning down to press a gentle kiss to the back of it. “It is an honor.”

“The pleasure is all mine,” she smiled sweetly. “It is not often I get to be in the presence of the next big player in formula one.”

“Ah,” Lewis smiled, relaxing at her cheeky tone. “I am sure you get that opportunity more than most.” The two laughed before being joined by Jenson and Eva. Jenson and Sophia had met before, so the four of them spoke at length about the upcoming season, the event UNICEF was putting on, and even the upcoming Champion’s league match, before they were all called to take their seats. 

Sophia found herself reluctant to make her way to the head table where she could see William standing and waiting for her. Offering one last smile to the group (and mainly Lewis), she decided to find him after dinner. 

When the plates were cleared later, Sophia was left pouting when Eva informed her Jenson and Lewis had bailed out before desert to catch a flight.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next time the two ran into each other, Lewis was fresh off of his first championship with Mercedes. The following season, the man was making great progress as Silverstone approached, his home Grand Prix. 

Sophia and her family attended sports in their country often, but this year at Silverstone, the Silverstone team had asked for a representative of the family to give away the trophy. When it came down to it, the most logical choices to represent the family were Harry or Sophia. The two had been ready to play rock paper scissors to see who could go when their press officer’s had told them the both of them could easily attend. 

So that led them to where they were now. Sophia was walking through the paddock in a yellow midi sundress, with closed toe wedges while Harry sported khakis and a light sport coat. The siblings were joined by their security and publicists. 

As the group walked the Grand Prix grounds, they found themselves visiting different garages. Harry and Sophia had both met Christian Horner in passing, so stopped in to greet him and his team. The garage practically turned silent as the two stepped in, murmurs of formal greetings coming from the staff as they bowed their heads. 

Sophia and Harry waved the formalness off. The rest of their family always gave them grief at how little the two of them adhered to protocol with the public, but that was just how it was. The two spoke with Christian and were joined by Helmut, the two offering to walk them through the garage. 

“Harry, I think Lilly, Miranda and I will keep walking around,” the girl smiled at her older brother who was ecstatic to get an inside look at the Red Bull garage and car. The redhead waved his sister off, making sure she was joined by her primary guard, publicist, and another guard before allowing himself to be led further into the building.

“Where to Princess?” Miranda asked as the group came back out of the garage and looked both ways. 

“Let’s go this way,” Sophia led with Lily and the 6′7 Marcus trailing behind her. The group ambled along before Sophia spotted the infamous Mercedes logo. “Shall we stop in with another home team?” Marcus and Miranda followed Sophia, but Lily couldn’t help but smirk as she realized what likely was fueling the Princess’ desire to head to this garage. 

“Hello,” Sophia greeted the engineers sitting at the pit wall with a demure smile. The three men seemed to recognize her, standing from their seats. “I was wondering if I could pop into the garage? Maybe sneak around a bit?”

“Of course Princess,” one of the men bowed his head. “Let me find someone to walk you through.”

“Oh please, don’t go through the trouble-” the man had already scampered off before Sophia could stop him. With a sigh Sophia turned to the two other engineers. “May I know your names gentleman?”

Sophia spent a few minutes speaking with Leo and Jack, learning about their jobs and what it was like to be working in Formula One. The group was laughing heartily at a joke Leo had told when they were joined by the original man Sophia had spoken to, along with a tall brunette. 

“Princess, may I introduce Toto Wolff, he is the team principal for Mercedes,” Sophia offered the man her hand with a grin. 

“Mr. Wolff, it is a pleasure!” She beamed at the Austrian man. “I must confess, I was really hoping to meet your wife this weekend.” 

Toto laughed as he gestured for Sophia to follow him. “Princess, you are not the first to say that to me and you will not be the last.” 

Sophia peppered the man with questions about his role with Mercedes, how he had ended up in the line of work and more. The man himself was a little shocked at how much the woman seemed to care about what he did. She clearly wasn’t asking to be polite, she was actually interested. 

Toto walked her around the garage, pointing out the different analytical databases and other fixtures typical of an F1 garage. 

“And here we have this year’s car,” Toto gestured towards the machine taking up a large portion of the garage. 

“Marvelous,” Sophia clapped her hands, walking closer to take a look. 

“Oh, Princess,” Toto called out, the blonde turning to face him as another blonde woman and a familiar face joined him. “May I introduce my wife Susie Wolff, and one of our drivers, Lewis.”

“Mrs. Wolff, it is amazing to meet you,” Sophia approached the woman. “I have been keeping up with your work in F1, and I find it amazing the way you are carving out a path for women in the sport.”

Susie shook Sophia’s hand, shocked at the younger woman’s kind words. “Thank you princess, it is a pleasure. I was a huge fan of the talk you gave last year at the Refuge fall gala.”

“Thank you Ms. Wolff,” Sophia beamed, turning to the other gentleman in his driving suit as Susie insisted Sophia call her by her name. “Mr. Hamilton, a pleasure to see you again.”

“Princess, it’s Lewis” he bowed his head before meeting the woman’s gaze with a flash of his pearly whites. “How have you-”

The man was interrupted by barking coming from the front of the garage. 

“Ah, one second,” Lewis blushed. Sophia raised a brow as she saw Lewis hurry to meet a blonde woman, speaking for a moment and grabbing something before heading back to them. Sophia gasped as she saw the beautiful English bulldog trotting by the driver’s feet.

“Oh my,” Sophia giggled as the dog panted loudly as he came to sit by the group. “May I?” she asked Lewis, gesturing towards the dog. He nodded and the woman crouched down and offered her hand to the dog who was happy to accept the head scratches she offered. “What is his name?”

“This is Roscoe,” Lewis smiled as Roscoe moved closer to the blonde, panting happily while looking up at his owner. “He’s my copilot.”

“Well, I know why you race so well then!” Sophia laughed, giving the bulldog one last pat before standing back up. As she did, movement seemed to pick up in the garage. 

“Ah, that is our cue,” Toto commented, turning to Sophia. “Princess, we would be honored if you would join us for the race and watch from the paddock club, or even down here on the pit wall.”

“Thank you for the offer Mr. Wolff!” She beamed. “Let me get back to see my brother and see his plans for the race. May I stop by tomorrow and let you know?” The team principal nodded before he and Susie said their goodbyes after Lewis assured them he could lead Sophia out.

“How do you feel about the race this weekend?” Sophia asked as they approached the front of the garage. 

“I like my chances,” he grinned at her. “Especially if you are supporting me.”

Sophia blushed and opened her mouth to respond before a call of her name interrupted her. Harry came strolling up with his group, offering a wide smile to the driver in front of him. 

“Prince Harry,” Lewis bowed his head, Harry waving him off the same way his sister did. 

“Lewis Hamilton, a pleasure,” Harry reached out to shake his hand. “You have some talent on the track, it is great to meet you.”

“Thank you,” Lewis’ cheeks darkened. “Before I head back in, I wanted to extend my team principal’s invitation to you as well, we would love to have you join us to watch the race tomorrow.”

“I think that would be amazing,” Harry looked to Sophia who nodded in agreement.

“We will see you tomorrow then?” Sophia asked, trying to hide her happiness.

“I will stop by before the race,” Lewis smiled. “And of course I will see you on the podium.” With that the driver strutted away. 

The next day Sophia and Harry chatted with the other spectators in the paddock area for the Mercedes team. There were several family members of drivers, investors, and even some celebrities. Sophia was pleased when Susie had made her way up and said she would be spending some time in the VIP area with them to watch. 

Soon after Susie had made her way up, they were also joined by Lewis. He was stopped several time while trying to make his way to where Sophia, Susie and Harry were standing. 

“Good to see you,” Harry shook his hand, Lewis greeting Susie before nodding his head at Sophia. 

“Are you excited for today?” Sophia asked.

“Yes, very,” he grinned. “Wish me luck?”

“You don’t need luck,” Sophia grinned. “You have skill.” The group laughed at her cheesy words. 

Later, Harry would hand trophies to Sebastian Vettel, and Jensen Button. Sophia would hand a trophy to Lewis as the winner of the British Grand Prix. And later the British Public would loose their minds at the pictures released of Lewis offering a hand to Sophia to assist her off the podiums. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Are you nervous?” Miranda, Sophia’s Publicist asked as the two sat in the back of a limo, Lilly and Marcus seated in the front. 

“Not really,” Sophia ran her hands over the silky navy blue fabric covering her body. She and her team were headed to the Met Gala in New York. When her invite had come, her Grandmother and oldest Brother hadn’t wanted her to go. 

Being a part of the family, one always had to worry about the press, as well as potential threats. But when discussing the event, Sophia had mentioned how she wanted to go and pay homage to her mother who had attended some 20 years earlier. That had sent the two of them quiet, and when her grandmother was reminded that her cousin would also be in attendance, she had begun to plan her trip.

“I think more than anything, I am excited to experience something Mum did,” Sophia admitted to the people with her who were not just her staff, but her friends. 

“She would be very proud of you,” Miranda reached over to squeeze the young woman’s hand. Soon after the group was in a line of cars unloading at the event. They waited their turn before the door opened and Miranda and Marcus exited before Marcus reached back to offer Sophia his hand. 

With a deep breath, she stepped out of the car. Taking a few steps, she and Miranda grabbed the train of her dress to allow it to drape behind her. For the Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons theme, Sophia had worked with Versace and ended up in a silk form fitting dress. It was in a navy blue reminiscent of her mother’s dress in 1995, and draped low in the back with a high neck in the front. The end of the dress pooled behind her, with strands of gems flowing from the hem. 

“Ciao Donatella,” Sophia greeted the woman as she made her way through the line of guests waiting for the iconic carpeted stairs. 

“Princess,” the woman greeted in her thick accent. “I am so honored to have you here tonight. And you look even more stunning than we could have believed.”

The two spoke for another minute before the designer made her excuses to go walk with her other guests. Sophia spoke with her team for a few more minutes before it was her turn. 

“You got this!” Miranda hyped. “If you need us, we’ll be right behind you!”

With a deep breath, Sophia plastered a soft smile on her face before walking out of the covered area. Immediately her name was being shouted, but the woman slowly made her way up the carpet and through different poses. She felt Miranda adjust her dress train a few times, but other than that she did not have a personal interaction until she made it up to the top of the stairs. 

“Here we have Vogue,” Miranda whispered as they approached a man with a microphone. 

“Princess,” the man smiled with a nod. “A pleasure, I am Andre with Vogue.”

“Thank you!” She grinned. “I am excited to be here!” The two talked for a minute about her outfit and the inspiration before Andre switched gears. 

“Is there anyone here tonight that you are excited to see?” He asked. 

“Well, my cousin is here so it is always good to see her,” Sophia and he laughed. “But I am a huge movie lover so there are a lot of iconic artists here that I am excited to see.”

“Someone else is here we have seen you with before,” Andre teased as the girl quirked a brow. “Lewis Hamilton is here tonight as well, did you know?”

“Is he?” Sophia tried to act non-chalant but in reality her heart raced at the information.

“Yes, we actually have him right over to our right!” Andre directed her attention to the side where Lewis was interacting with a blonde woman Sophia recognized from the track. 

Sophia spoke with Andre for another minute before she took her leave. “I know this may look like gold for the press, but I want to say hello,” Sophia murmured to Miranda, the woman sighing heavily. She knew the younger woman would do what she wanted so she, Lily and Marcus followed along as she approached the duo who had been joined by an older woman as well.

“Hello!” Sophia called as they got within earshot. 

“Oh wow,” Lewis murmured as he turned to see her approach. “Princess, you look absolutely stunning.”

Sophia’s cheeks burned at the compliment as she turned to the two other women with him. “Hello, Sophia,” she held her hand out to shake with the older woman first. 

“Princess,” the woman bowed her head before taking her hand. “Carmen, I am Lewis’ mum.”

“Oh, how lovely!” Sophia gasped. “You have raised a wonderful young man, may I say.”

“Oh thank you so much,” Carmen smiled with wide eyes. “And may we introduce Angela Cullen, the real one that keeps Lewis on track.”

Sophia giggled as she heard Lewis scold his mother under his breath, shaking Angela’s smile. “So nice to meet you! I have my crew with me as well, Marcus, Lily and Miranda. They keep me all in line.”

The group spoke for a few minutes, Lewis complimenting Sophia twice more before the event staff started calling for people to head inside. “Princess,” Lewis called softly before she could walk away after saying goodbye. “Are you in New York long?”

“I am here until the day after tomorrow,” she answered as he stepped closer. 

“May I take you to dinner tomorrow?” Lewis asked with a shy grin, Sophia meeting him with a bright smile. 

“I would love that,” Sophia nodded, asking the man for his phone. She put her number in and handed it back, but Lewis grabbed her hand in his, pulling it up to press his soft lips to the back of it. 

“I am looking forward to seeing you again,” Lewis murmured, the two holding eye contact until Miranda nudged Sophia’s shoulder. 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sophia and Lewis would see each other two more times during that trip in New York. Two weeks after, the press would catch wind of Sophia in the paddock at the Australian GP. 

A year later, the public would be shocked as the 5 time Formula One World Champion would accompany Sophia to Harry and Meghan’s wedding. 

And in 2021, she would be standing by her father as he knighted Lewis.

That same year, the public would see Sir Lewis Hamilton and Princess Sophia Windsor sit down in front of the BBC to discuss their engagement and plans for the future.

#lewis hamilton #formula one #formula one imagine #f1 #f1 imagine #f1 imagines #f1 driver #f1 driver imagine #f1 drivers #driver imagine #lewis hamilton imagine #lewis hamilton imagines #lewis hamilton x oc #fanfiction

[lily-drake]

Gifts

Any holiday or day where gifts were given was taken with utmost seriousness in the Wayne household.  Or in other words, it was a competition to one up each other’s gifts.  It all started when Jason came to the house and Dick had come back to visit for the holidays.  Marinette hadn’t really understood what was happening when she happily opened Dick’s present, which was a new knitting kit with so many different materials.  She ran over to him and hugged him tightly as Alfred took photos.  Dick had glanced over at Jason and smirked at him, but Jay-Jay only rolled his eyes with his arms crossed.  She still hadn’t opened his after all, and he was around her more now than Dick was, which meant he had a higher advantage of knowing her new interests and endeavors.  So he watched as she pulled out a thick book of fashion design and her own embroidery set.  Her eyes practically glowed as stared at the set.  Jason hadn’t even seen her move because next thing he knew strong arms were wrapped around him.  The 7-year-old had definitely been taught by Dick on how to hug people.

Bruce gazed lovingly at his children, but he knew about their competition, and he would not be outdone by his sons.

“Daddy, Daddy, look what Birdy and Jay-Jay gave me!  They’re so nice!  Feel the material Birdy got me, I can make so many things now!”

“That sounds amazing, Bluebell.”

Marinette smiled brightly as she showed Bruce the gifts that she got.

“Do you want to see what I got you?”

He asked amusedly.  Marinette began to hop on her toes in excitement, because daddy’s always had the best gifts!

“Yes please!”

Bruce smiled and pointed out a small, thin, rectangular box under the tree.  She leaped over to it and when she opened it her mouth dropped open and she squealed.

“You got me tickets to Sophie Theallet’s fashion show?!”

She was jumping with joy as she stared at the five tickets in her hand.  Bruce looked over at and smirked at the boys.  He won, again.  They groaned and sulked in annoyance.  Why did he always win?

________

Marinette was 9 when she finally figured out what her family was doing, and she knew that she would be the one to give the absolute best gifts to her family!  Her family deserved something super special, so she went to work.  Her Birdy was part of the circus and they had a lot of equipment he often used.  But what could she do that would be super special and make her win the competition?  Then it hit her, she knew exactly what she would do!  She would need to ask Alfred for help, but it would be worth it!

Next was Jay-Jay.  She didn’t know much about his past as he always told her that she had to wait till she was older, but she knew about him now.  Jay-Jay loved to read and would often read to her, he really liked hoodies and comfy things, and he liked to bake with Alfred and her.  So maybe…….yea!  She would do that, it shouldn’t be that hard to do.

Daddy always got her such nice gifts, how could she ever beat him?  There had to be something she could do to outdo him.  He was Batman, he worked with the Justice League, he loved all of them, and sometimes if he finished his work early would watch movies with them!  But he was always so good and knew exactly what to get.  She would try though, she had an idea and she hoped it would work.

Alfred, he deserved the best gift because of everything he did for them!  She already knew the perfect gift for her grandpa Alffie!

________

Christmas arrived and she stared out the window as the snowflakes fell onto the covered yard.  Maybe they could go sledding today, that would be so much fun!  She was so transfixed in the snow, and thinking of how pretty a dress would be with the same color and different designs, that she hadn’t noticed her brothers sneaking up on her.  A squeal left her lips as she was lifted into the air and twirled around wrapped in the warm embrace of her Birdy.  She giggled as he spun and squeaked as she was gently thrown into the air, only to land on the couch.

“Good morning Blueberry.”

Dick chirped happily.  She giggled again and leaned into Jay-Jay’s hand as he ruffled her hair.

“Morning Pixie-pop.  Sleep well?”

“Morning Birdy and Jay-Jay.  I slept great, thank you.  Did either of you?”

Jason shrugged with a small smirk,

“I slept fine, though I wouldn’t have minded sleeping a little longer.  You missed Dick’s hallway caroling this morning.”

“I sounded amazing, thank you very much.  And I was too excited to fully sleep.  I’m going to win this year.”

Dick said pridefully.

“No way, I’m totally going to beat you.”

Jason deffied puffing out his chest slightly.  Marinette giggled and called out,

“No, I’m going to beat all of you!  I will be the champion gift giver this year.”

They looked at her and smirked.

“Only in your dreams Pix.”

“You’ll see,”

She replied, crossing her arms and lifting her nose in the air like she had seen some of the people at the galas do.

“Then you’ll have to agree with me!”

They all gave each other sceptical looks before laughing and continued to talk until daddy came down.  When he finally did, the competition commenced.  The first person to open presents was her, obviously, as she was the youngest.  Dick had given her a really nice and fancy art kit, and she loved it!  Jay-Jay had given her tickets and backstage passes to the theater for The Nutcracker, she had been wanting to see it for a while now.  Alfred had told her that he would teach her how to make a super secret recipe, and she would be able to help him with dinner today too!  Daddy, he was too clever, too cunning.  He had given her a pet hamster, and it was beautiful!  She couldn’t beat him now, her gift was nothing compared to-to this!  She tries though, and maybe she could win second?  Yea, she would be ok with second, if she got this adorable baby creature.  She couldn’t even be mad or disappointed, because look at its cute little feet and adorable eyes!

Next was Jay-Jay.  The others had given him some really nice things, but she felt that hers was the best!  So when he opened it and his eyes shined, she knew she made the right thing!  It had taken her hours to find it, and she had to ask Dad if she could get it since she wasn’t allowed to use the card without permission.  It was one of the first books of Pride and Prejudice ever published, she even got him a fancy ink and quill set so he could better embrace his Harry Potter nerdom.

“This is amazing, thank you Pixie, I guess I do owe you an apology, this is amazing.”

She smiled up at him while gently petting the top of her new hamster's head as it laid on her lap.

“Told you!”

For Dick she had knitted him a collection of stuffed animals that he talked about from the circus.  Alfred had helped her find the material and helped her when she made a mistake or needed help on a particularly tricky part.  She thought she saw Dick’s eyes water for a second.  The next thing she knew she was being tightly hugged, but he left enough room to not squish her furry child.

“Thank you Blueberry, it’s amazing.”

“Of course it is, I made them!”

He chuckled as he pulled away and ruffled her already messed up hair.

She had made Daddy a picture book and had decorated it with black and yellow glitter, bats, and different birds.  Throughout the book were all of the pictures that she was able to get her hands on dated and labeled in order from oldest photo to most recent.  He had a soft smile as he looked through the book and when he finally looked back up to his slightly nervous daughter he pulled her into a hug and kissed her forehead.

“I think you won this year.”

“Nuh ah!  You gave me a hamster!  There’s no way I could have won!”

“Well, I think all the others would agree that you thought of and made some very amazing gifts.”

She turned to look at the others as they gave gentle nods and thumbs up.  Her cheeks felt really warm and she smiled at them all.

“Thank you.  Now Grandpa Alffie needs to open his presents!”

Alfred smiled at the small child and opened the gifts he had received from the others.  Marinette had made and embroidered a new handkerchief for him.  He seemed to like it as he immediately placed it in his pocket.  She was the victor of this year's Christmas gift exchange, but she still felt that Daddy beat her.

________

As years passed and her family grew so did the competition.  Sadly, it would be harder to her her family their most desired gifts as she had decided to study abroad in Paris that year, but she would be da*ed if she didn’t try her hardest.  She had gotten better with her skills for making things over the years, and so much had happened.  Jason had died and come back, that was the hardest time of her life.  They had new people adopted into the family, and she even had a little brother!  She was going to meet him this year when she went to visit for the winter break.  She would have the glasses with her at all times in case there was an attack so she could quickly come back here and take care of it.

When she arrived at the Gotham Airport and saw her large family standing and holding a sign as they looked for her she ran up to them as quickly as she could.

“Pixie!”

Jason called out, catching the small girl and twirling her around.  She laughed and when she was put down created the rest of her family just as happily.  When she finally came face to face with her little brother she held out her hand.  Her family said he was more formal and was very against physical touch that he did not agree to or initiate.  He eyed her hand suspiciously before shaking it and giving her a nod.

“Damian Al Ghul-Wayne.”

“Marinette Wayne.  It’s nice to finally meet you Damian.”

They both let go after a firm shake.  She already had a gift for him, and Kagami helped her find the perfect one.  It was a nice blade, the blade was completely black, but had a red tint to it and red gains that delicately ran through it.  The hilt was of fine golden metal and a strong leather grip.  She had made the sheath for the blade.  With strong leather and an inner layer of Kevlar so the sword would be protected.  She had carved in Arabic symbols to spell out “Son of Bat” and had sewn a few almost unnoticeable small robins along the bottom and top of the inky black material.

For Tim, she had gotten him the best coffee beans in all of Paris and she had made him new lounge clothes that identified with his hero persona of Red Robin that had many hidden pockets and two large to-go coffee cups, one on each sleeve.

For Jason she had made him a new leather Jacket with book quotes embroidered all over the inside of the inner material.  There were lots of different pockets, and a few tailor made to fit his guns.  She had put a few Jagged Stone concert tickets in one of the pockets too.

For Stephanie, she had made purple silk pajamas that had waffles all over it.  She had even made sure that there was a hood connected to the pj shirt.

For Cass, just like Jason had done for her, gotten tickets for The Nutcracker.  She had also gotten her ballerina shoes, the best one and most highly recommended ones from the Paris Ballet.

For Dick she had made him an elephant onesie.  Why you may ask, well because for her birthday he had given her a mouse one.  So was it spite for being called short, or was it her trying to match, nobody needs to know.

She had made Alfred a new apron with the words “Don’t try anything, I already know.”  Neatly sewed in cursive into it.

She had gotten Babs a new eskrima stick infused with a bit of her luck in it so no one would underestimate her in battle as she would always have luck on her side giving her the upper hand.  She may be disabled, but that doesn’t stop her from kicking butt.

Finally, her gift for her dad.  This one was hard, because she wasn’t around to know what had caught his eye this year, and her siblings refused to tell her.  It was fine though, because she would figure it out.  And she did, or at least she had tried.  She ended up making him a bee suit jacket with everybody’s names sewed into the inner lining, multiple pockets for convenience, and black bats that would only be shown in the right lighting.  She would win this year, she would!  Sadly, Dick had won last year, but she would regain her crown again this year!  She would be the best gift giver of her whole family!!!

Taglist:

@queenz-z @aespades @fandomsaremylifeline @stainedglassm @toodaloo-kangaroo @prettylittlebutterflie @trippingovermyfeet @liquid-luck-00 @unoriginalmess

#Maribat #BDMWM2021 #bio!dad bruce wayne #marinette dupain cheng #marinette wayne #sibling au #sibling timinette #sibling dickinette #sibling jasonette #sibling daminette #gift giving is serious #to give or be given #mlb x dc #mlb x batman #dc x mlb #day 7 #fluff #maribat

[wheelsgoroundincircles]

Maybe before cats and dogs started their bitter rivalry, there was Snake vs Mongoose. I’m not talking about Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, I mean two of the best known drag racers ever to lay it all on the starting line: Don Prudhomme and Tom McEwen. Back before corporate sponsorship made some racers professionals, drag racers were innovators and possibly daredevils who no doubt, did it for love and a heaping dose of quarter mile glory. Why else would Snake and Mongoose travel the country for “grudge matches” that paid not much more than gas and beer money? It wasn’t until McEwen convinced Mattel (the first non-automotive drag racing sponsor) that “Wildlife Racing” and this “bitter” rivalry (actually between friends) would sell scores of Hot Wheels that drag racing became both lucrative and a common household discussion.

But that’s just part of the story!  Head down to the Peterson Automotive Museum for their NHRA: Sixty Years of Thunder where Don “The Snake” Prudhomme will be joined by Tom “The Mongoose” McEwen, Roland Leong (Hawaiian funny car fame), “TV” Tommy Ivo (Actor and racer of some nasty multi-engined hot rods), Carroll Shelby (needs no intro!) and Ed Pink (engine builder for Snake and just about every winning racer back then). A once in a lifetime experience for $150 on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2010.

Details of who, what, where below are courtesy of the Petersen Automotive Museum:

(LOS ANGELES, October 1, 2010) Petersen Automotive Museum is celebrating the opening of the exciting new exhibit, NHRA: Sixty Years of Thunder by paying tribute to one of the sport’s most iconic figures – Don “The Snake” Prudhomme – during their annual Tribute Night on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2010.

Match Race Madness Panel Discussion

The day will begin with the 2 p.m. panel discussion, Match Race Madness, featuring drag racing’s greatest rivalry: Snake vs. Mongoose. Prudhomme will be joined by arch-rival Tom “The Mongoose” McEwen to tell the tales of their days of traveling the United States from race track to race track, their much-publicized grudge matches, the business partnership they formed called, “Wildlife Racing,” and their pioneering work in non-automotive sponsorship with Mattel’s Hot Wheels.

An Evening with Don “The Snake” Prudhomme

At 5:30 p.m., An Evening with Don “The Snake” Prudhomme will begin. A cocktail hour with Prudhomme, McEwen, and honored guests Roland Leong, Tommy Ivo, Carroll Shelby, Ed Pink and many others will be followed by a fabulous dinner buffet. Special guest Dave McClelland, the Voice of the NHRA and longtime friend of Don Prudhomme, will be the Master of Ceremonies. The evening will continue with a short film featuring The Snake’s history and several other drag racing icons will share their stories of the legend. A live auction of amazing racing memorabilia will follow with proceeds going to the Petersen’s educational programs. Guests will also be able to preview the items that will be in the Bonham’s and Butterfield’s Motorcycles and Memorabilia auction on Saturday, Nov. 13.

NHRA: Sixty Years of Thunder

If that’s not enough, guests will also be the first to see Petersen Automotive Museum’s newest exhibit, NHRA: Sixty Years of Thunder. This exciting new exhibit will cover the history of the National Hot Rod Association, from its early creation as a way to get street racing off of the public highways and on to sanctioned drag strips, through six decades of nitro, tire smoke and thunder. Guests will have an experience rich with historic photography, exciting videos, interactive displays and of course, race cars with the combined power output of 50,000 horses! This exhibit opens at the gala and runs through May 29, 2011.

Tickets

Tickets for An Evening With Don “The Snake” Prudhomme are $125 each. Tickets for the Match Race Madness panel discussion are $50 each. A combined ticket for both events is $150, a $25 savings. Special pricing is available for certain levels of Petersen Automotive Museum Membership. For more information call [phone], or to buy your tickets on-line, go to www.Peterson.org. Event proceeds support the Petersen Automotive Museum’s educational and cultural mission.

Honoree: Don “The Snake” Prudhomme

In the early days of his drag racing career, Don Prudhomme worked as a crew member for drag racing icon “T.V.” Tommy Ivo. In 1962, Prudhomme achieved his first Top Fuel win at the Smoker’s March Meet in Bakersfield, California. From 1962 through 1964, Don teamed up with Tom Greer and legendary engine builder Keith Black, and built the famous Greer, Black & Prudhomme Top Fueler (on display in NHRA: 60 Years of Thunder) which won nearly every west coast event. Prudhomme went on to drive Roland Leong’s “Hawaiian” Top Fuel dragster, and won his first NHRA race, the 1965 Winternationals in Pomona, California. He then switched to Funny Cars in the 1970s and won four straight NHRA Funny Car World Championships between 1975 and 1978 and had seven NHRA U.S. Nationals wins. He was the first Funny Car driver to go 5 seconds in the quarter mile and the first to top 250 mph.

Don Prudhomme’s quick reaction times earned him the nickname, “The Snake.” He teamed up with his friend and rival, Tom “The Mongoose” McEwen to form the team “Wildlife Racing,” and they were hired by track owners to race each other in grudge matches around the country. But the real money came when they were sponsored by Mattel’s “Hot Wheels,” the first non-automotive sponsor in NHRA history.

The Snake last raced on his “Final Strike Tour” in 1994, but stayed active in other areas of the sport. Until his retirement earlier this year, Don “The Snake” Prudhomme was a car owner running a Top Fuel Dragster Team and two Funny Car teams. Prudhomme has 49 career wins as a driver, and 59 career wins as an owner.

National Hot Rod Association

Nestled in the quiet community of Glendora, Calif., just minutes east of downtown Los Angeles, is the world’s largest and loudest auto racing organization, the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). Since it was founded by Wally Parks in 1951, NHRA has been dedicated to safety while providing millions of racing fans with The Extreme Motorsport: the fastest and most spectacular form of entertainment on wheels. With 80,000 members and more than 35,000 licensed competitors, NHRA is a thriving leader in the world of motorsports. Parks initially started NHRA as a means of getting hot rodders off the streets and on to legal drag strips. Since those early days, NHRA has evolved into the largest promoter of professional drag racing in the world. Today, with more than 300 dedicated employees, NHRA offers drag racing opportunities for hot rod enthusiasts of all levels, from kids ages 8-17 in the NHRA Jr. Drag Racing League all the way up to the top of the Professional ranks with the organization’s NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series.

NHRA is moving just as fast in popularity with auto racing fans. Second to only NASCAR in terms of attendance, fan appeal, and sponsorship commitment, NHRA is moving quickly into mainstream America.

NHRA is all about diversity. With more than 20 categories of competition, including Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle at the Professional level, to a multicultural array of high-octane personalities it calls world champions; NHRA thrives on unique competitors accomplishing unique achievements. For example, in 2008, Hispanic racer Cruz Pedregon won the NHRA Funny Car world championship, and Ashley Force Hood and Melanie Troxel became the first female winners in the Funny Car class.

Participation on and off the track has made the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series one of the most popular forms of racing, reaching thousands of fans, members, and sponsors a quarter-mile at a time.

Petersen Automotive Museum

The Petersen Automotive Museum Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charity. The Museum is located at 6060 Wilshire Boulevard (at Fairfax) in Los Angeles. Admission prices are $10 for general admission adults, $5 for seniors and students with ID, and $3 for children ages 5 to 12. Museum members and children under five are admitted free. Covered parking is available for $2 per half hour with an $8 maximum for Museum visitors. Museum hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 6pm. For general Museum information, call 323/930-CARS or visit the Museum’s Web site at: www.Peterson.org.

#Snake vs Mongoose #snake #mongoose #Don Prudhomme #Tom McEwen #Prudhomme #mcewen #Petersen Automotive Museum #drag racing #nhradragracing #nhra #nhra 70th anniversary sweepstakes #mattel #hot wheels