In the future (starting now) this page will cover "special events" that occur to or for people or peoples, groups or groupies directly or remotely connected with the sport of drag racing. These "events" will be posted here when they happen or as we get them. Or better yet, if we get them. Enjoy. The first event to be featured in this new section (which I'm sure will become infamous with time) is the surprise 64th Birthday party for "Diamond Jim" Annin held at the Wally Parks Motorsports Museum on June 8, 2003.   A banner was raised announcing Jim's party. This was a surprise party headed up by Steve Gibbs who just not to long ago had a nice party there for himself put on by his daughter Cindy. Seems there is always a good reason for a party around this group.   Some photos of Jim were on display ... here he appears to be enjoying a beer after a safe parachute landing. Jim was a bit bigger back then so it might have been a cargo chute!   Betty and Jim Annin at one of their famous pool parties some years back. When asked how she got such a big smile on Jim, Betty replied, "I grabbed his balls and said "Smile!" Well, it worked!   Betty, still the beauty she always has been, holds a lemon pie as Jim's birthday "cake" as he blows out the "few" candles.   Betty Annin holds up Jim's Lemon pie "cake" as a large crowd sings Happy Birthday to him.   Long time friend Danny Reed flew in from Austin, Texas just for Diamond's party. Danny was one of the principles who put on the famous Austin Aqua Festival drag boat races back in the 70's. Here Danny gives Jim a jacket referring to a long ago time when his "Lil Dragin" unblown gas hydro held the world record.   Yes, this is little Diamond Jimmy Annin and from the looks I would say this shot was taken about 60 years ago. Photos & commentary by John Ewald If you have a "special event" that is not too painful to post here, send us photos and text. And remember, you don't have to be nice. A roast would be cool! Mail to: Special Events Members Site Map || Visitors Site Map   Site Copyright Ewald Enterprises, 1998-2005. All Rights Reserved. Fuel Dragsters is a Left Coast Graphics Web Property.