A little bit of cold and rain couldn’t stop the festivities at the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.’s blimp hangar on Oct. 21, as the tiremaker christened the latest member of its blimp family – Wingfoot Two.
Christening Wingfoot Two, and drenching herself with Champagne at the same time, was Akron-native and philanthropist Savannah James.
“I feel absolutely honored to be a part of this christening,” said James. “With Goodyear being so much a part of Akron and our Foundation always wanting to better our community, I feel like it is a perfect match. Goodyear means so much to our community, and we feel a sense of gratitude to be part of this amazing event.”
James, who is married to Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James, was chosen to christen the blimp based on her ties to the Akron community.
“Savannah’s Akron-born roots and passion for improving the local community made her a natural choice to christen Wingfoot Two,” said Richard J. Kramer, Goodyear chairman, CEO and president. “Goodyear has a long-standing tradition of enlisting strong, accomplished women to christen our iconic airships, and we are proud to welcome Savannah to the family.”
Also at attendance at the ceremony was Robin Roberts, co-anchor of ABC’s “Good Morning America.” Roberts, who christened Wingfoot One, passed the christening duties to James, bringing the Champagne bottle with her.
Over the years several different women have christened the fleet of Goodyear blimps including Amelia Earhart (1929), astronaut Dr. Sally Ride (2000) and president of International Speedway Corp. Lesa France Kennedy (2006).
Check out more photos from the ceremony on Tire Review’s Facebook page.
