Who was the first Beatle to get married?

The Day John Lennon Married Yoko Ono The Day John Lennon Married Yoko Ono By Dave Swanson March 20, 2015 8:54 AM REDDIT Simpson / Hulton Archive, Getty Images On March 20, 1969, John Lennon married Yoko Ono . The two met in November 1966 as she was preparing to open an art exhibit called Unfinished Paintings and Objects, which was held at the Indica Gallery, located in the basement of the Indica Bookshop in London. (Coincidentally, one of the shop’s earliest supporters was Paul McCartney .) At the time, Lennon was still married to his first wife, Cynthia. The two were wed in August 1962 and had one child together, Julian. After years of putting up with her husband’s infidelity, Cynthia filed for divorce in August 1968. In the meantime, John and Yoko had already become a couple and, once the divorce was final that November, plans were made to be married. The two had originally hoped to to hold their nuptials in Paris, or more specifically, on the way to Paris. “We wanted to get married on a cross-channel ferry – that was the romantic part,” Lennon said in the Beatles ‘ Anthology documentary. “We went to Southampton and then we couldn’t get on because she wasn’t English, and she couldn’t get the day visa to go across. They said, ‘Anyway, you can’t get married. The Captain’s not allowed to do it any more.'” Lennon later crafted an autobiographical Beatles song titled “The Ballad of John and Yoko” that laid out the rest of their journey: “Finally made the plane into Paris, honeymooning down by the Seine. [Apple assistant] Peter Brown called to say, you can make it okay; you can get married in Gibraltar near Spain.” The couple arrived at the British Consulate Office there, and they were married in a 10-minute ceremony performed by registrar Cecil Wheeler. Since Gibraltar was a British colony, and Lennon a British citizen, there was no issue. “We went there and it was beautiful,” Lennon said. “It’s the ‘Pillar of Hercules,’ and also symbolically they called it the ‘End of the World’ at one period. They thought the world outside was a mystery from there, so it was like the Gateway to the World. So, we liked it in the symbolic sense, and the rock foundation of our relationship.” Their wedding, which took place just one week after that of fellow Beatle McCartney to Linda Eastman, would be followed by a honeymoon which wasn’t be anywhere near as low key. Instead, Lennon and Ono staged a raucous “Bed-In” for peace for the week of March 25-31 at the Amsterdam Hilton Hotel, surrounded by the press and various hangers on. “We decided that if we were going to do anything like get married that we would dedicate it to peace,” Lennon told Rolling Stone in 1971. “And during that period, because we are what we are, it evolved that somehow we ended up being responsible to produce peace.” The Top 100 Rock Albums of the ’70s Image of


Which word appears in the title of a Police hit in 1981, a Queen hit in 1986 and a Take That hit in 1992?

Top 10 Police Songs Top 10 Police Songs REDDIT Martyn Goddard, Getty Images Fans looking for a handy compendium of the Police ‘s top songs could do worse than picking up a copy of their 1986 compilation, ‘Every Breath You Take: The Singles’ — in fact, a majority of the tracks on this Top 10 list appear on that album. But the British trio were more than just a collection of hits, of course, and to get a better overall picture of the Police, one must dig a little deeper than the five-times-platinum seller. With that in mind, we offer you our picks for the Top 10 Police Songs. 10 From: ‘Outlandos d’Amour’ (1978)     The influence of reggae on the Police is pretty apparent to even casual fans, but few of the band’s song are as overtly connected to the genre as ‘So Lonely,’ which singer-bassist Sting admits was based on a Bob Marley classic — with a little punk thrown in for good measure. “Let’s be honest here, ‘So Lonely’ was unabashedly culled from ‘No Woman No Cry’ by Bob Marley,” he told Revolver . “Same chorus. What we invented was this thing of going back and forth between thrash punk and reggae. That was the little niche we created for ourselves.”     The Police’s 1983 swan song ‘Synchronicity’ is the disc that made the band global superstars — it was their only album to top the charts in the US, where it eventually went eight-times platinum — and ‘Wrapped Around’ was its second of no less than five hit singles. Supposedly about the dissolution of a doomed marriage, the tune meshes dark-edged New Wave and reggae flourishes to create a moody pop masterpiece. ‘Can’t Stand Losing You’ From: ‘Outlandos d’Amour’ (1978)     The second single off the Police’s first album, this catchy number nearly topped the UK singles chart — despite the controversy that surrounded the cover art. The BBC “had a problem with [the cover] because the photo on the cover of the single had Stewart standing on a block of ice with a noose around his neck, waiting for the ice to melt,” explained Sting, although he failed to mention that the song is indeed about suicide. From: ‘Ghost in the Machine’ (1981)     ‘Invisible Sun’ found the Police exploring another rather dark realm, both in sound (thanks to the haunting synthesizer loop that runs through the track) and in the content of the lyrics, which make a veiled reference to the Provisional Irish Republican Army. The accompanying video, which featured clips taken from the conflict in Northern Ireland, was also banned by the BBC. From: ‘Reggatta de Blanc’ (1979)     It may come across as rather lightweight in tone — its lyrics, about a lonely island castaway who one day is surprised with “a hundred billion bottles washed up on the shore” after a year of despair over his unanswered message in a bottle — but something about ‘Message in a Bottle’ certainly struck a chord with fans, who helped make the tune the Police’s first No. 1 hit in the UK. It’s also Sting’s personal favorite, he told BBC presenter Jools Holland. ‘Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic’ From: ‘Ghost in the Machine’ (1981)     ‘Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic’ is a key step in the evolution of the Police. The choppy reggae guitars and ire-inflected beats of their early days are still there, but now they are adorned with sweetly subtle layers of pop piano and synth. It all ties together into a four-minute nugget of the kind of pop genius that would make their next LP, ‘Synchronicity,’ such a massive worldwide hit.     Most bands can’t turn a song that references an obscure Hungarian novelist (Arthur Koestler) and the father of analytical psychology (Carl Jung) into an international hit, but then again, most bands don’t have Sting writing their tunes. Add in odd tempos and eerie instrumentation on top of the esoteric lyrics, and ‘King of Pain’ is pure pop brilliance as only the Police can do — and get away with. ‘Don’t Stand So Close to Me’ From: ‘Zenyatta Mondatta’ (1980)     Before his foray into the world of rock ‘n’ roll stardom, Sting was a teacher, but he later put to rest rumors that ‘Don’t Stand So Close to Me’ — which tell


What was Madonna's first UK number one single?

Madonna’s Official Number One Singles' Sales Revealed! 07 February 2014 Madonna’s Official Number One Singles' Sales Revealed! It’s an incredible 30 years since the undisputed Queen of Pop had her very first Top 10 hit with Holiday. To celebrate, we count down her 13 Number 1s and reveal the biggest selling of them all… Google + It’s an incredible 30 years since the undisputed Queen of Pop had her very first Top 10 hit with Holiday. To celebrate Madonna’s three decades of Official Charts supremacy, we count down her 13 Number 1s and reveal the biggest selling of them all… 13. Sorry (2006) To kick things off, it’s one of Madonna’s most recent chart-toppers. The second single to be released from Madge’s big return to the disco album Confessions On A Dance Floor, Sorry was something of a surprise Number 1 for her. The video was Madonna in full kitsch mode – first driving around in her own version of the Vengabus (possibly) before rollerskating dressed like a kind of disco astronaut. It was catchy, it was energetic and it was a worthy chart-topper WHO DID IT BEAT? Corinne Bailey Rae’s Put Your Records On had to settle for Number 2. CHART FACT: It was the first time she’d had two consecutive Number 1s in five years. SALES: 200,000 12. Who’s That Girl (1987) A product of Madonna’s movie ambitions – with some success – Who’s That Girl was the first of three tracks released from the soundtrack of the movie of the same name. After a whole campaign with blond hair, brunette Madonna was back and up to her usual tricks, dancing about and ‘causing a commotion’ in between clips from the movie. Critics had their knives out for the movie, in which Madonna played a kooky ex-con with sticky fingers but a heart of gold, but Madge just about pulls it off. As lead singles go, it may not be up there with Madonna’s finest, but it has a certain charm. WHO DID IT BEAT? Madonna knocked Pet Shop Boys’ It’s A Sin off the top. Almost 20 years later, they would remix Sorry for its single release. So no hard feelings, then. That's good. CHART FACT: Who’s That Girl was Madonna’s second chart-topper to spend just one week at Number 1. SALES: 350,000 11. American Pie (2000) A long, long time ago… well, 1972 to be exact, Don McLean had a hit with the classic American Pie, which was so long it took up two sides of a 7” single (ask your mum). Madonna, for reasons that are unclear, decided to cover the song, but to make it all fit nicely onto one CD (ask your older sister) she edited the track considerably. Then-collaborator William Orbit added his signature swooshes and even Rupert Everett, Madonna’s co-star from movie The Next Best Thing, popped in to lay down some backing vocals and appear in the video. WHO DID IT BEAT? American Pie knocked All Saints’ Pure Shores – another William Orbit production – off the top spot and left N Sync settling for Number 3 with Bye Bye Bye. Madonna would later go on to team up with N Sync's Justin Timberlake on another Number 1… CHART FACT: Don McLean’s version only got to Number 2. SALES: 390,000 10. La Isla Bonita (1987) Just before Who’s That Girl came La Isla Bonita, a song which, legend has it, was originally written for Michael Jackson. Madonna got her hands on it first, however, and created a new anthem for anybody who wishes their holiday would go on for a bit longer – and she loves a Holiday does our Madge . WHO DID IT BEAT? La Isla Bonita held off Judy Boucher’s boohoofest Can’t Be With You Tonight. CHART FACT: La Isla Bonita took four weeks to slowly climb from Number 5 to spend two weeks on the top spot. Not bad for a fifth and final single from an already huge-selling album, True Blue. SALES: 410,000 9. Music (2000) Madonna was a force to be reckoned with in late 2000, and enjoyed her second Number 1 of the year with this, the true lead single off her album Music. Although she had just given birth to her second child, Madonna went on a promo blitz for Music, performing a special concert in Brixton that was broadcast over the internet (more impressive then than it sounds now). The Mirwais-produced Art Of Noise-s


How many sisters are in the group Sister Sledge?

Sledge, Sister - Dictionary definition of Sledge, Sister | Encyclopedia.com: FREE online dictionary Sledge, Sister COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale, a part of Cengage Learning Sister Sledge Sources The disco era of American music, which hit its peak in the late 1970s, would not have been the same without the energetic grooves performed by Sister Sledge. Their 1979 hits “He’s the Greatest Dancer” and “We Are Family” inspired dancers in the club scene around the world. The infectious chorus of “We Are Family” was adopted by the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team in their 1979 World Series championship season. Over time, the song has become the anthem for several causes, including gay rights and as a call for tolerance after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States . Four sisters make up the group Sister Sledge. Debbie, Joni, Kathy, and Kim Sledge were all born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania . Their father and mother met in New York where both were pursuing careers in entertainment. Edwin Sledge, a renowned tap dancer, made entertainment history by being the first African American to perform on Broadway . Florez Williams acted and danced until she took on the full responsibility of raising her daughters. Their grandmother, Viola Williams, was a lyric opera performer who taught the girls basic vocal techniques. As young children, Debbie, Joni, Kathy, Kim, and their sister Carol performed as Mrs. Williams’ Grandchildren. Appearing throughout Philadelphia, the girls sang for charities, churches, and other events under their grandmother’s guidance. One of their primary performance venues was the church they attended, Williams Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME). In 1971, as the Sisters Sledge, they recorded their first single, “Time Will Tell,” on a local label named Money Back. They changed their name to Sister Sledge not long afterward and began recording for various Atlantic Records labels. Much of their early work with Atlantic involved singing background vocals. Then in 1974 they released their first album, Circle of Love. A single from that album, “Love, Don’t You Go through No Changes On Me,” reached number 31 on the R&B charts. The album was wildly popular in Japan , and in 1975, Sister Sledge was invited to the International Tokyo Music Festival, where they won the Silver Prize. Their second album, Together, released in 1977, produced single that made it to number 61 on the R&B charts, called “Blockbuster Boy.” By the end of the 1970s, the sisters had begun to question their devotion to the music industry. Despite years of experience, their future seemed uncertain. Carol had already decided to leave her singing career to pursue teaching. The four remaining sisters promised themselves that if they did not make it really big in the next year that they would disband and go their separate ways. As fate would have it, Sister Sledge became the pet project of producers Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, the team that had worked with the group Chic to produce the popular dance hit “Le Freak.” Rodgers and Edwards’ production skills, combined with the vocal talents of Sister Sledge, led to the 1979 breakthrough album We Are Family. The first single from the album, “He’s The Greatest Dancer,” went to number one on the R&B charts. The second single, “We Are Family,” not only hit number one on the R&B charts, but broke through to reach number two on the pop charts as well. Willie Stargel of the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team chose the song as his team’s anthem in the 1979 championship season. The infectious fun and call for togetherness embodied in the song helped bond crowds with the Pirates as they eventually won the 1979 World Series. The album itself was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Rodgers and Edwards produced the group’s third album, Love Somebody Today, released in 1980. The single from that album, “Got to Love Somebody,” made it to number six on the R&B charts. For their 1981 release, All American Girls, Sister Sledge recruited new producers and scored


Which footballer won the Golden Boot for scoring the most goals at 1986 World Cup Finals?

World Cup Golden Boot Winners - Historical World Cup Top Scorers Argentina 5 One of the most active markets for any World Cup is the Golden Boot with a number of players vying for an award which is presented to the highest goal scorer in the tournament. Over the years, there have been some incredible goal scoring feats at World Cup finals but who are the individuals that have made their mark in previous tournaments and what indicators can they give those of us who are making predictions for 2014? The Record Breaker France’s Just Fontaine holds the record for the most goals in a single World Cup tournament and it’s one that may never be broken. In current World Cup competitions, the most successful teams could play as many as seven games but could any of the current players match the 13 strikes that Fontaine achieved in Sweden in 1958? The striker was prolific in club football and averaged nearly a goal a game during his eight years with Stade Reims. His ratio at international level was even better and his performances at the 1958 finals would leave Fontaine with a record of 30 goals from 23 appearances. It’s claimed that he was playing in a pair of borrowed boots when he began his campaign with a hat trick in a 7-3 defeat of Uruguay. The Frenchman followed that achievement with a brace against Yugoslavia and a single, winning goal against the Scots which allowed his country to progress to the next phase. Three goals followed over two matches against Northern Ireland and Brazil before Fontaine netted no less than four times in the third place play off against West Germany. Behind this incredible achievement, Sandor Kocsis managed eleven strikes in the finals of 1954 but since Gerd Muller’s 10 in 1970, no player has managed more than eight in a single tournament. The Prolific Nations Aside from Just Fontaine’s magnificent 13 back in 1958, no Frenchman has taken the Golden Boot award. In fact, after the Stade Reims centre forward, there is a considerable gap in the country’s all time list. The finals in Sweden were the only time that Fontaine appeared in a tournament so he finished seven clear of Thierry Henry who scored six goals – three in 1998 and three in 2002. Other countries have been more prolific over a longer span and they tend to be the more successful nations in terms of World Cup victories. Brazil are well represented when it comes to the tournament’s leading goal scorers and out of eighteen finals, five Brazilians have either shared the Golden Boot or won it outright. The most successful of these was Ronaldo who currently holds the overall record for goals scored at the World Cup finals. The former Real Madrid target man has 15 strikes, spread over three tournaments, including a top scoring effort of eight as his country lifted the trophy in 2002. Behind Ronaldo, the legendary Pele has 12 goals in four tournaments although the man who many believe was the greatest to ever play the game, never actually won a Golden Boot. Germany also feature heavily in the list of all time leading scorers and Miroslav Klose has a chance of eclipsing Ronaldo’s record at the 2014 tournament. Along with the great Gerd Muller , the Lazio centre forward has 14 goals in World Cup finals and is set to be Germany’s first choice front man in Brazil. In total, German or West German players have finished as top scorer in three tournaments. Gerd Muller recorded an impressive ten goals in 1970 before Klose took an outright win in 2006. Thomas Muller completes the trio although the Bayern Munich man shared the award in 2010 with David Villa and Wesley Sneijder. An unlikely hero After West Germany’s Gerd Muller took the prestigious Golden Boot in 1970, he joined up with the national squad as they looked to win the World Cup on home soil four years later. The host nation duly completed a win after edging past the Netherlands by two goals to one in the final and while the man they called ‘Der Bomber’ scored four times, the top scorer accolade finished in the hands of an unlikely recipient. Poland’s Grzegorz Lato featured in three FIFA World Cup


Which snooker player is nicknamed the Rocket?

Ronnie O'Sullivan Best Snooker Shots NEW 2013 - YouTube Ronnie O'Sullivan Best Snooker Shots NEW 2013 Want to watch this again later? Sign in to add this video to a playlist. Need to report the video? Sign in to report inappropriate content. Rating is available when the video has been rented. This feature is not available right now. Please try again later. Published on Jun 16, 2013 Download Now for Free from Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/de... . Ronnie O'Sullivan Best Snooker Shots Ronald Antonio "Ronnie" O'Sullivan (born 5 December 1975) is an English professional snooker player known for his rapid playing style, and is nicknamed "The Rocket". He is the reigning World Snooker Champion and has been World Champion on four occasions (2001, 2004, 2008 and 2012) and, with career earnings of over £6 million is second, after Stephen Hendry, on snooker's all-time prize-money list. He has been the world's no. 1 player on five occasions, and has won a total of 24 ranking titles. O'Sullivan's achievements also include four Masters and four UK Championship titles. He also won the Nations Cup with England in 2000. He is second, again behind Hendry, on the list of players making the most competitive century breaks, with a total of 678.O'Sullivan has compiled 11 maximum breaks in professional competition, a record which he shares with Hendry. He also holds the record for the fastest maximum break at 5 minutes 20 seconds, which he compiled at the 1997 World Championship. He is considered by many to be the most naturally talented player in the history of the sport, with some labelling him a 'genius'. Several of his peers regard him as the greatest player ever, although a temperamental streak sometimes leads to a lack of confidence or interest, and he has performed inconsistently throughout his controversial career thus far, with observers noting the 'two Ronnies' aspect of his character. According to Stephen Hendry after his defeat at the 2008 World Championship, "O'Sullivan is the best player in the world by a country mile". O'Sullivan is one of the most popular players on the circuit and is noted for being a 'showman'. He is perhaps the biggest draw in the game today, and has helped improve the image of snooker to the general public. O'Sullivan himself has stated his desire for entertaining the watching public, and has said that slow, gritty games put viewers off. He has often been compared to Alex Higgins and Jimmy White, because of both his natural talent and popularity. O'Sullivan has compiled 678 competitive centuries during his career, second only to Hendry. Category


The field of play for which sport is often called a grid-iron?

Gridiron - definition of gridiron by The Free Dictionary Gridiron - definition of gridiron by The Free Dictionary http://www.thefreedictionary.com/gridiron a. The field of play. b. The game itself. 2. A metal structure high above the stage of a theater, from which ropes or cables are strung to scenery and lights. 3. a. A flat framework of parallel metal bars used for broiling meat or fish. b. An object resembling such a framework. [Middle English gridirne, lattice, grill, alteration (influenced by iren, irne, iron) of gridere, alteration of gridel; see griddle.] gridiron 1. (Cookery) a utensil of parallel metal bars, used to grill meat, fish, etc 2. any framework resembling this utensil 3. (Theatre) a framework above the stage in a theatre from which suspended scenery, lights, etc, are manipulated 4. (American Football) a. the field of play in American football b. an informal name for American football c. (as modifier): a gridiron hero. Often shortened to: grid [C13 gredire, perhaps variant (through influence of ire iron) of gredile griddle] grid•i•ron n. 1. a football field. 2. a utensil consisting of parallel metal bars on which to broil meat or other food. 3. any framework or network resembling a gridiron. 4. a structure above the stage of a theater, from which scenery and the like are manipulated. 6. to mark off into squares. [1250–1300; Middle English gridirne, gridir(e), gridere, alter. of gridel griddle ] gridiron The football field, marked with white lines. ThesaurusAntonymsRelated WordsSynonymsLegend: cooking utensil , cookware - a kitchen utensil made of material that does not melt easily; used for cooking 2. football field football stadium - a stadium where football games are held athletic field , playing area , playing field , field - a piece of land prepared for playing a game; "the home crowd cheered when Princeton took the field" Translations 2. (US) (Sport) → campo m de fútbol (americano) gridiron Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us , add a link to this page, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content . Link to this page: View in context She watched the fish with as much tender care and minuteness of attention as if,--we know not how to express it otherwise,--as if her own heart were on the gridiron, and her immortal happiness were involved in its being done precisely to a turn! View in context Only I thought you had struck out a new idea, and invented a scheme that was going to revolutionize the timeworn and ineffectual methods of the--" He stopped, and turned to Blake, who was happy now that another had taken his place on the gridiron. View in context Or even," said he, "if you was helped to knocking her up a new chain for the front door - or say a gross or two of shark-headed screws for general use - or some light fancy article, such as a toasting-fork when she took her muffins - or a gridiron when she took a sprat or such like--"


At which event has Steve Backley won Olympic Bronze and Silver medals?

Steve Backley OBE | Coporate Speaking, Athletics Sydney 2000   Steve turned to the javelin after initially starting out in athletics as a cross-country and middle distance runner. 25 years later he's the four times European javelin champion and has won the Commonwealth Games three times. Steve is the first British athlete to have medalled at three consecutive Olympic Games. He has made the world top 10 every year since 1989 and on three occasions has been world number one. Career History   1987: Steve started his championship career well by winning  the European junior champs in front of a home crowd in Birmingham 1988: Backley set a world junior record of 79.50, but was beaten by the capable Russian, Victor Ovchinikov in the World junior championships in Canada.   1989: Bursts onto the senior scene with wins at both the World and European Cup after winning the World Student Games. He also won the Grand prix final, finishing 2 nd overall to Said Ouita.   1990: A dream summer for Steve starts with a world record of 89.58m in Stockholm and then surpassed 90m for another world record with a throw of 90.98m at his home ground, Crystal Palace , beating his arch rival Jan Zelezny. He grabbed his first major championship golds with wins at both the European Championships and the Commonwealth Games. To round it off he was awarded the IAAF athlete of the year in Monaco.   1991: Injury interrupted the positive momentum of the past 4 years and despite a disappointing world championships in Tokyo, Steve managed to salvage the season with a new British and Commonwealth record (91.36m) in front of an appreciative crowd in Sheffield   1992: Following the ban of the Nemeth javelin Backley again sets the world standard with a huge 91.46m world record throw in New Zealand. Takes the bronze medal at the Barcelona Olympics.   1993: More injuries made it difficult for Steve to maintain the domination he had achieved over the past 4 years, a disappointing 4th place in the world championships and the upsurge of the already huge rival Jan Zelezny meant Steve had his work cut out.   1994: Steve began to build his form and against all odds beat the relatively unrivalled Zelezny, as well as Finland 's Seppo Raty, in the Olympic stadium in Helsinki- the home of javelin throwing. He backed this up with wins at the Commonwealth games and World cup to cap off one of his most successful summers.   1995: Despite Steve beating the best in the world at the London grand prix; Zelezny, with one of his most successful summers proved too much for Steve who was beaten into second place in the World championships in Sweden .   1996: Takes Olympic silver just three months after an operation on his Achilles. Steve was awarded the MBE for his services to sport   1997: Follows this up with another silver medal at the 1997 World Championships. Steve decided to join his arch rival Zelezny's training group at the end of the summer and train alongside him under the guidance of his coach Jan Pospisil. This proved to be a successful move.   1998: Having performed well at the 3 championships in the 3 previous years and 'only' to take silver medals at each games', it was time for Steve to return to winning ways. He successfully defended his European title but was surprisingly beaten into silver at the Commonwealth Games by South Africa 's Marius Corbett with a huge throw of over 88m. Steve's average throw for the year was in excess of 87m, making this his best performing year.   1999: The high level of training and performance of the previous year took its toll and Steve suffered more injury and ended up having knee surgery. He did manage however to throw over 87m at the AAAs and make the world championships final.   2000: Proved his championship pedigree yet again in Sydney when his 89.85m in the second round broke the Olympic record, only for arch-rival Jan Zelezny to respond with a 90m-plus effort.   2001: Built on that form with his best throw for nine years,  90.81 at the British Grand Prix   2002: Added to mo


The Solheim cup is the women's equivalent of which famous sporting cup?

Solheim Cup 2015: USA roar back to win after bitter row on 17th green | Sport | The Guardian Solheim Cup 2015: USA roar back to win after bitter row on 17th green • Players in tears after argument over whether USA putt was conceded • USA win 14-1/2 to 13-1/2 after argument centred on Suzann Pettersen Team USA celebrates after winning the Solheim Cup back from their European rivals Photograph: Uwe Anspach/dpa/Corbis Sunday 20 September 2015 06.10 EDT Last modified on Monday 4 April 2016 08.12 EDT Close This article is 1 year old Sometimes there is no finer sporting motivation than a deep sense of injustice. So it proved once more in south-west Germany, where a United States team, earlier reduced to tears and fury, roared back to claim the Solheim Cup for the first time since 2009. They took the acclaim of the neutral golfing observer in doing so, by 14½ points to 13½. Two things will never be known. We can only guess as to the outcome of this event had Suzann Pettersen backed down in her Sunday morning row with Alison Lee, amid which the European player flatly refused to grant her opponent the tiny putt the American thought she heard as a concession. Despite inevitable claims to the contrary, it is pure speculation as to whether a member of the United States team would have acted the same as Pettersen in equivalent circumstances. What is known is that the tawdry incident on the 17th green completely overshadowed this event and, sadly, a wonderful American comeback. An undercurrent of bad feeling, which was noticeable on Friday and Saturday, subsequently consumed all around it. Pettersen had the chance to remedy the situation and was unwilling to do so, in offering either an example of a ferocious will to win or unpalatable mean spirit. She and Hull would defeat Lee and Brittany Lincicome at the last. Lee cried, Hull did likewise. Juli Inkster, the American captain, was scathing as to the conduct of the Norwegian. “You don’t do that to your peers,” Inkster insisted. “It is bullshit.” After the dust had settled, a grinning Pettersen cut a mixture of unrepentant and non-plussed. This was, truth be told, a highly dubious stance from one so experienced. Hull’s lack of contrition can at least be partly attributed to teenage naivety. “It was very clear from Charley and me that we wanted to see the putt [in],” Pettersen said. “We are all trying to win, to play golf. I totally respect the Americans. We totally respect the game. At that point of time in the match and the putt she left … I would still like to see it.” Pressed on whether her stance changed with benefit of hindsight, Pettersen added: “I think I just said I would still like to see the putt.” Hull claimed her own tears were out of sympathy for Lee. “At the end of the day, rules are rules,” said the Englishwoman. Pettersen and Hull were supported by their captain, Carin Koch. “It wasn’t a short enough putt where they would have even given it,” Koch said. “We have to follow the rules of golf.” Yet Laura Davies, a 12-times Solheim Cup participant, said she was “disgusted” by the European conduct. By the time the trophy had been awarded, Inkster’s diplomatic skills had kicked in. She admitted to being “mad” at the time of Pettersen’s stance. “I think they were ready to go but I also think that incident maybe just lit the fire a little bit more,” Inkster said. “I think in their bellies they wanted to just maybe do a little bit more. That little bit more got us the Solheim.” Maybe 10-6 never wins. Europe held that advantage before a singles ball was struck in American anger. The United States men held precisely the same lead in 2012, when astonishingly upstaged by the visiting contingent in the Ryder Cup at Medinah. Through Caroline Masson, Europe had a 12ft chance to retain the cup. That was, however, a moment of rare opportunity. Only Karine Icher, Melissa Reid and Anna Nordqvist won their singles matches for the home team. Reid’s gleaming of three and a half points from a possible four will be of little consolation. The US had singles success via Morgan Pressel, Lee, Gerin


What was the attendance at the 2003 Rugby World Cup final when England beat Australia?

Record Rugby World Cup attendance at Wembley Stadium Crowd pleaser Record Rugby World Cup attendance at Wembley Stadium The 89,019 fans who watched the New Zealand-Argentina clash beat the mark set at the RWC 2003 final in Sydney 20/09/2015 17:23 Issued on behalf of England Rugby 2015 89,019 fans attended Wembley Stadium and broke the record for the biggest ever crowd at a Rugby World Cup match Previous record was 82,957 at the Rugby World Cup 2003 Final Opening weekend has engaged the nation with full venues and great Rugby Tickets for some great matches featuring England at Manchester City Stadium, New Zealand at the Olympic Stadium and Australia at the Millennium Stadium are still on sale via tickets.rugbyworldcup.com Rugby World Cup 2015 entered the record books on Sunday when 89,019 fans attended Wembley Stadium for New Zealand v Argentina and broke the record for the biggest ever crowd at a Rugby World Cup match.   The previous record of 82,957 at the Rugby World Cup 2003 Final was broken by Match 8 in one of England's most iconic sporting venues where the winners of Rugby World Cup 2011, New Zealand, took on Argentina in a thrilling match.   England Rugby 2015 Managing Director, Stephen Brown, said: "We are delighted to see such a fantastic crowd at Wembley Stadium this afternoon and secure a record Rugby World Cup match attendance with over 89,000 fans enjoying New Zealand v Argentina. The opening weekend has been a true celebration of Rugby with full venues, exciting Rugby and a real buzz in and around the Host Cities with over 100,00 people enjoying our official Fanzones and we're looking  forward to more of the same over the coming weeks.”   World Rugby Chairman, Bernard Lapasset, added: "This has been a weekend where Rugby has captivated and inspired a nation and a new generation of fans and players and what better way to cap it than with a Rugby World Cup record crowd. Great people make great events and the stars of this Tournament so far, alongside the players, have been the wonderful fans, the 21st Rugby World Cup team.”   Rugby World Cup 2015 has already become the biggest Tournament to date selling over 2.35 million tickets, crossing the 2.25 million tickets sold in France 2007. Fans can still be part of the Tournament however with some great matches including England at Manchester City Stadium, New Zealand at the Olympic Stadium and Australia at the Millennium Stadium via tickets.rugbyworldcup.com.


Which University in the UK has the largest number of students?

UKCISA - International students in UK HE - International student statistics: UK higher education International students in UK HE - International student statistics: UK higher education You need to be logged in as a member to view this page. Email address Student experience projects & research International student statistics: UK higher education These pages are updated from the  Higher Education Statistics Agency  (HESA).  HESA gathers data for all publicly funded Higher Education Institutions and the University of Buckingham.  The data also includes stats on Higher Education (HE) level courses which are delivered at Further Education (FE)Colleges.  The first data for 15/16 was released on 12 January 2017 and our pages have been updated.  Some tables will be updated in the second release in February - check the date below each table to see what year the data relates to. For information about the data for 15/16 see the links below: Summary of data from HESA   (see Charts 4, 7 and 8) You can access data this year on the new HESA app . For responses to the 15/16 data see: PIE News 12/01/17 Chief Executive, Dominic Scott commented: ‘These figures for  2015/16 (which always come out reliably but frustratingly late) appear largely to confirm what other sources (such as informal reports and Home Office visa figures)  have been saying for some time.  That compared with many other countries our non EU recruitment is virtually stagnant – with first year arrivals decreasing, countries like India nosediving but fortunately China keeping the totals as high as they are.  Whilst they accord with official Home Office statistics (as HESA note), ministers often attempt to give a far more positive figure by merely quoting the number of visa applicants to Russell Group universities which they say are on the increase.  But all this shows – and without doubt as a direct result of visa restrictions – the picture for the whole of the UK HE sector is far from rosy and certainly not the time for the government to consider the sort of further measures suggested in October by the Home Secretary’ Last modified: 16 January 2017 Sections Please note - the data based on the first release from HESA on 12/01/17 has been updated.  The remainder will be updated with the next release in February 2017.  Note: totals differ in the tables below due to rounding within the HESA data. International (non-UK) students in UK HE in 2015-16 81% of students studying in HE in the UK are from the UK.  6% are from the rest of the EU and 14% are from the rest of the world 46% of students studying at postgraduate level in the UK are from outside the EU. The number of Chinese students far exceeds any other nationality at 91,215. This is the only country showing a significant increase in student numbers. The number of Indian students coming to the UK to study continues to fall (44% decrease in the last five years). Across the UK: England has the highest number of students from outside the EU (14%) Scotland has the highest number of students from the EU (not including UK) (9%) Wales has had the largest decrease in numbers from students from outside the EU (11% drop since 2014-15) Northern Ireland has seen a 7% decrease in students from outside the EU since 2014-15. International students in UK HE by domicile, level and mode, European Union (EU) (excluding UK) and non-EU, 2014-15 Level of Study/Domicile


Which childrens novel by Raymond Briggs has a main character whose job it is to scare people?

_Black_Acrylic: Fungus the Bogeyman Tuesday, 11 September 2012 Fungus the Bogeyman Fungus the Bogeyman (1977) is a children's graphic novel by British artist Raymond Briggs. It follows one day in the life of the titular character, a working class Bogeyman with the mundane job of scaring human beings. The book follows a typical day for Fungus the Bogeyman, starting when he wakes up and ending just before he falls asleep. As his day progresses, he undergoes a mild existential crisis, pondering what his seemingly pointless job of scaring surface people is really for. He is a member of the Bogey society, which is very similar to British society, but Bogeymen enjoy things which humans (called Drycleaners because of their contrasting environmental preferences) would not be comfortable around; for example darkness, damp, cold and over-ripe food. The book depicts the mundane details of Bogey life in loving detail, with definitions of Bogey slang and numerous annotations concerning the myths, pets, hobbies, literature, clothing and food of the Bogeys. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fungus_the_Bogeyman Raymond Briggs's Fungus the Bogeyman is the current bedtime reading for my kids, and I'd forgotten what a rich, imaginative and complex philosophical work it is. Far from being a simple celebration of all things wet and slimy, Briggs' book creates an upside-down underworld where a gloomy nihilism is the order of the day, and with whose attitudes Briggs clearly has some sympathy. The book was first published in 1977 and has a definite punky, "no future", Sex Pistols quality. The book masterfully combines a thorough anatomy of Bogeyworld with a meditation on the futility of existence. As Fungus moves slowly through his day (or, I should say, his night, since Bogeys are nocturnal), he is given to such reflections as "Not to reason why... not ask questions... just keep bogling away". Tom Hodgkinson http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2007/apr/24/whatimreadingfungusthebog The book, as with all Raymond Briggs childrens books, is beautifully illustrated in that soft, rounded style which is all Briggs own. Throughout the story we are treated to some gory and gruesome sights, and learn a lot about Bogeyman culture, and how it mirrors our own. The tale is presented in the form of a comic strip, but most of the panels of the story are full of little jokes and gags beyond that required to tell us about Fungus’ adventures. Fungus is a great book for parents to read to their children as they will get just as much joy from it as their kids. Whilst the young ‘uns will enjoy all the frights and horrible tricks that Fungus gets up to, adults will see another layer of wit on top of this in the way Fungus’ job and world is perhaps not quite so different to our own as it first appears. Big Boo http://www.childofthe1980s.com/2009/02/23/fungus-the-bogeyman/ It has been called "the nastiest book ever published for children," and it stands in a pivotal position among the picture books of the British artist-writer Raymond Briggs. Fungus the Bogeyman (1977; first American edition 1979) offers both the most fully developed fantasy and the most outrageous affront to conventional mores of all Briggs's children's books to date. It also marks the midpoint of a philosophic curve Briggs has been tracing from the cheerful confidence of Jim and the Beanstalk (1970), to the black despair of When the Wind Blows (1982). A close look at Fungus reveals the common concerns that tie these two extremes together, and that make the last book a wholly logical development from the first. Bogies, according to K.M. Briggs's Encyclopedia of Fairies, comprise "a whole class of mischievous, frightening and even dangerous spirits whose delight it is to torment mankind." From this basis in folklore, Raymond Briggs has postulated a race of large, blobby, green-skinned beings who inhabit their own underground world. At night (their day), the Bogeymen emerge to carry on their "work"—frightening human beings with mysterious footsteps, scrapings on windowpane


What is the colour of the flag of Libya, which is the only national flag consisting of only one colour?

Libya's Flag Change: World Loses the Only Single Colored National Flag Libya's Flag Change: World Loses the Only Single Colored National Flag Updated on January 24, 2012 Libya's Old and New Flags Libya's Old and New Flags Death of the Living Another endangered species has gone extinct. No we are not talking about the animal or plant kingdom but the national flag of the Libyan kingdom (agreed technically it was not a kingdom but it was no democracy either). With the demise of their king (read Muammar Gaddafi) comes the demise of a symbol that became the reason why primary school kids know of the existence of a nation called Libya. (If you have been on a sail-around-the-world-tour and are wondering what am I talking about, I suggest you take a tour of Wikipedia before returning to this land.) Libya's plain green (ex) flag, which was the only national flag of its kind, has been replaced by the original flag of 1951 that was adopted when the Kingdom of Libya came into being. One will no longer be able to ask what may have been one of the favorite GK questions in the domain of flags. Rebirth of the Dead The new (or original) flag has a design typical of Islamic nations. It consists of a horizontal tricolor of red, black and green with a white crescent and star centered on the black center stripe. To give credit to the designer, the flag was designed by Omar al Fayek Shennib who was the Minister of Defense along with being Chief of the Royal Diwan and Vice-President of the Libyan National Assembly under the reign of King Idris al Senussi. The flag which became a symbol of protest in the Libyan Revolution leading to the ousting of the military regime was officially notified to the United Nations by the National Transitional Council (NTC) of Libya on 3 August 2011. Evolution History The earlier plain green design with no symbol or insignia was adopted by Muammar Gaddafi in 1977. If you are wondering why did a colorful person like Gaddafi adopt such a simple design then this had to do with his Green Book on Third International Theory which was proposed as an alternative to capitalism and communism for third world countries. Gaddafi adopted the flag after he had overthrown the king in a military coup in 1969. But history has a knacky way of repeating itself. The military ruler had come to power after a bloodless coup but his end of rule was not to be so peaceful. He was captured and brutally murdered by NTC revolutionaries. Condolences The revolutionaries have succeeded in their efforts. The new flag flies proudly all over Libya. Muammar Gaddafi is gone. And so is the flag he gave Libya for the world to admire. May both of them rest in peace.


Which patron saint's day is observed on November 30th?

St. Andrews Day is celebrated on November 30th | Feast of Saint Andrew | St. Andrew's Feast Day Feast of Saint Andrew Biography      of St. Andrew  St. Andrew      Cathedrals  Patronage      of St. Andrew  St. Andrew Medals  Feast Day of St. Andrew  St. Andrew's Cross  Prayers      to St. Andrew  Pictures  About Me St. Andrew day St Andrew's Day, the 30th of November, is marked by celebrations         around the globe. Many cities hold celebrations of St. Andrew's         feast day, and his status as patron saint of fishermen is observed         with a feast of St. Andrew in fishing villages as well. Germany and Austria have their own traditions and folklore surrounding St Andrews        Day, or Andreasnacht as it is known to locals. St. Andrews feast        day is near to, and some years coincides with, the start of Advent        (the first Sunday following the 26th of November) Among his many        responsibilities, St Andrew is patron saint of unmarried women,        so Andreasnacht is regarded as a particularly auspicious occasion        for girls and young women to perform the various folkloric rituals        designed to reveal the identity of future husbands. Austrian Girls        would traditionally perform the ritual, which might be anything        from divining by pouring molten lead into water, to kicking a straw        bed in the nude, while reciting the Andreasgebet or St.        Andrew's Prayer . All the while looking for a lucky sign of love        at their feast of St. Andrew. St Andrew's Day, however, is best known as a celebration of Scottish        culture. Since 2006, it has been officially recognized as a national        holiday in Scotland, with events such as celebratory St. Andrew        Feast dinners happening around the nation, and is marked around        the world by the many St Andrew's Societies from the Americas to        the Far East composed of Scottish expatriates, descendents of the        Scots diaspora, and others who simply have an interest in all things        Scottish. The town of St. Andrews celebrates its patron in style        with the weeklong St. Andrews Festival, incorporating music, arts,        dance and drama. You and your family can celebrate your own Saint Andrew feast. Let        the main course be fish and perhaps include some Scottish traditions.        Giving your guests St. Andrew's medals or jewelry is a special way        to honor St. Andrew and your guests on this day. Recite the prayers of St. Andrew, reflecting on how        he lived his life, the first-called apostle of our Lord Jesus Christ. Join us on


What is Fleetwood Mac's only UK number one single?

Fleetwood Mac | Rolling Stone artists > F > Fleetwood Mac >           Bio Fleetwood Mac Bio The only thing about Fleetwood Mac that hasn't changed since the band formed in 1967 is the rhythm section of Mick Fleetwood and John "Mac" McVie — fitting, since the band is named after those two. Through the Seventies, the band's personnel and style shifted with nearly every recording as Fleetwood Mac metamorphosed from a traditionalist British blues band to the maker of one of the best-selling pop albums ever, Rumours, then kept on for decades after that — to varying degrees of success. Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac was formed by ex–John Mayall's Bluesbreakers Green, McVie, and Fleetwood along with Elmore James enthusiast Jeremy Spencer. McVie had been a charter member of the Bluesbreakers in 1963, Fleetwood had joined in 1965, and Green had replaced Eric Clapton in 1966. With its repertoire of blues classics and Green's blues-style originals, the group's debut at the British Jazz and Blues Festival in August 1967 netted it a record contract. Fleetwood Mac was popular in Britain immediately, and its debut album stayed near the top of the British chart for 13 months. The quartet had hits in the U.K. through 1970, including "Black Magic Woman" and the instrumental "Albatross" (which was Number One in 1968 and reached Number Four when rereleased in 1973). America, however, largely ignored Fleetwood Mac: its first U.S. tour had the group third-billed behind Jethro Tull and Joe Cocker, neither of whom was as popular in Britain. Green and Spencer recorded Fleetwood Mac in Chicago with Willie Dixon, Otis Spann, and other blues patriarchs in 1969 (the LP wasn't released until 1971), yet the group was already moving away from the all-blues format. In May 1970 Green abruptly left the group to follow his ascetic religious beliefs. He stayed out of the music business until the mid-Seventies, when he made two solo LPs. His departure put an end to Fleetwood Mac's blues leanings. Danny Kirwan and Christine Perfect moved the band toward leaner, more melodic rock. Perfect, who had sung with Spencer Davis in folk and jazz outfits before joining British blues-rockers Chicken Shack in 1968, had performed uncredited on parts of Then Play On, but contractual obligations to Chicken Shack kept her from joining Fleetwood Mac officially until 1971. By then she had married McVie. Early in 1971, Spencer disappeared in L.A. and turned up as a member of a religious cult, the Children of God (later the title of a Spencer solo effort). Fleetwood Mac went through a confused period. Bob Welch joined, supplementing Kirwan's and Christine McVie's songwriting. Next Kirwan was fired and replaced by Bob Weston and Dave Walker, both of whom soon departed. Manager Clifford Davis then formed a group around Weston and Walker, called it Fleetwood Mac, and sent it on a U.S. tour. An injunction filed by the real Fleetwood Mac forced the bogus band to desist (they then formed the group Stretch), but protracted legal complications kept Fleetwood Mac from touring for most of 1974. From then until around the time of the Tusk tour in 1979-80, the band managed itself, with Mick Fleetwood taking most of the responsibility. The group relocated to California in 1974. After Welch left to form the power trio Paris in 1975, Fleetwood Mac finally found its best-selling lineup. Producer Keith Olsen played an album he'd engineered, Buckingham-Nicks (Polydor), for Fleetwood and the McVies as a demo for his studio; Fleetwood Mac hired not only Olsen but the duo of Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks, who had played together in the Bay Area acid-rock group Fritz from 1968 until 1972, before recording with Olsen. Fleetwood Mac now had three songwriters, Buckingham's studio craft, and an onstage focal point in Nicks, who became a late-Seventies sex symbol as Fleetwood Mac (Number One, 1975) racked up 5 million in sales. The McVies divorced in 1976, and Buckingham and Nicks separated soon after, but the tensions of the two years between albums helped shape the songs on Rumours (Number


Which chemical element has the symbol Fe?

Chemical Elements.com - Iron (Fe) The homepage of the Iron and Steel Society If you know of any other links for Iron, please let me know Bentor, Yinon. Chemical Element.com - Iron. <http://www.chemicalelements.com/elements/fe.html>. For more information about citing online sources, please visit the MLA's Website . This page was created by Yinon Bentor. Use of this web site is restricted by this site's license  agreement . Copyright © 1996-2012 Yinon Bentor. All Rights Reserved.


The actor Johnny Depp had a tattoo on his arm surgically altered after the break up of his relationship with which actress?

Johnny Depp alters Amber Heard tattoo to read 'scum' | Celebrities | Entertainme Johnny Depp alters Amber Heard tattoo to read 'scum' Saturday, July 02, 2016 11:37 AM EDT | Updated: Saturday, July 02, 2016 11:57 AM EDT In this Jan. 2, 2016 file photo, Amber Heard, left, and Johnny Depp arrive at the 27th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards Gala in Palm Springs, Calif. A Los Angeles Superior Court spokeswoman says the temporary restraining order Heard obtained against Depp will remain in effect until Aug. 15. (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File) Johnny Depp accused of stalling divorce Johnny Depp has altered a tattoo on his hand that was dedicated to his estranged wife Amber Heard. The Pirates of the Caribbean star inked the knuckles of his right hand with the word SLIM, which was his nickname for Heard, after the pair married last year. He also has another tattoo, a full length-portrait of the Texas-born actress, on his arm. Now, photos have been released that reveal Depp has changed the letters of his knuckle tattoo to spell the word SCUM. According to TMZ.com , the alteration has happened over the course of the past week. It could be a hint to the actor's feelings toward his spouse, who accused him of domestic abuse and obtained a restraining order against him after she filed for divorce in May. Depp was spotted with the tattoo alteration while on a visit to Los Angeles on Wednesday, as he gathered with family and friends to pay tribute to his late mother Betty Sue, who died days before Heard filed for divorce. This isn't the first time Depp has had to change a tattoo following a break-up. He famously was inked with "Winona Forever" during his relationship in the 1990s with Winona Ryder, but was forced to change it to "Wino Forever" after they broke up. Ryder, who dated Depp for four years after they met at a film premiere in 1989, came out in defence of her former fiance earlier this week, and revealed she was baffled by Heard's allegations against the star. "I can only speak from my own experience, which was wildly different than what is being said," she told Time magazine . "He was never, never that way towards me. Never abusive at all towards me. I only know him as a really good, loving, caring guy who is very, very protective of the people that he loves." The actor was on a European tour with his band The Hollywood Vampires when the divorce drama began, and later retreated to his private island in the Bahamas. The band, also featuring Alice Cooper and Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry, played the first of their U.S. tour dates in Pennsylvania on Friday, and will continue their tour until the end of the month. Meanwhile, Depp will face off with his wife for the first time since they split in a Los Angeles courtroom in mid-August, when her request for a permanent restraining order against Depp will be discussed. The pair was scheduled to face off in court last month but the hearing was postponed amid reports the former couple was attempting to reach a private settlement. The actress has accused the father-of-two of abuse throughout their relationship and showed up at court last month with a bruised face, accusing Depp of throwing an iPhone at her. In response to Heard's abuse allegations, Depp's lawyers have claimed the actress is "attempting to secure a premature financial resolution by alleging abuse".  Sponsored Links


Capital Of China, Where Is China's Capital Capital of China Last updated by fabiowzgogo at 2016/12/16 Beijing, which means "Northern Capital" (from the Chinese characters 北 for north and 京 for capital), is the capital of the People’s Republic of China and one of the most heavily populated cities in the world. Beijing is the second largest Chinese city by urban population after Shanghai -the 2010 census revealed that the official total population in Beijing was 19,612,368- and is the nation's political, cultural, and educational centre of China. The Beijing Capital International Airport is the second busiest in the world by passenger traffic. The city's history dates back to three millennia. As the last of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, Beijing has been the political centre of the country for much of the past eight centuries. The city is illustrious for its opulent palaces, temples, gardens, tombs, walls and gates and its art treasures and universities have made it the heart of culture and art in China. Few cities in the world have been the political and cultural core of an area as immense for so long. Beijing is unique among most big cities of China since it shows at the same time the characteristics of old and new China. The first facet is seeable not only in the very numerous historic monuments of the city, but also in its typical old town districts “Hutong” still very vast. The fast moving modern metropolis come into sight during a walk in Guomao area in Chaoyang District, the central business district of Beijing and along Dongdaqiao Road or Jianguo Avenue. Administrative division Beijing Municipality currently comprises 16 administrative county-level subdivisions including 14 urban and suburban districts and two rural counties or xian. Geography The metropolis is located in northern China and the municipality of Beijing extends over a surface of 16 800 km2. Mountains to the north, northwest and west shield the city which is close to the Great Wall of China. Beijing has a rather dry, monsoon-influenced humid continental climate  characterized by hot, humid summers and usually cold, windy, dry winters. The monthly daily average temperature in January is −3.7 °C (25.3 °F), while in July it is 26.2 °C (79.2 °F). The most pleasant months for tourism are: May, with an average temperature of 26,4 °C and  September with 25,8°C. July and August are the months of the year when it is most raining with an average of 10 rainy days during the month. History The earliest traces of human habitation in the Beijing municipality were found in the caves of Dragon Bone Hill near Zhoukoudian village in Fangshan District, where Peking man lived. It is in 1153 that the city became for the first time the capital of the country as the Jurchen Jin dynasty  moved their capital to Nanjing (also known as Yanjing—the city which is now Beijing) renaming it Zhongdu, the "Central Capital". However it loses of its notoriety as the city was besieged by Genghis Khan's invading Mongolian army in 1213. Two generations later, Kublai Khan ordered the creation of Dadu, a new capital for his Yuan dynasty to be located adjacent to the Jin ruins. The construction took from 1264 to 1293. In 1368, the rebel leader Zhu Yuanzhang sent an army to Khanbaliq and burnt it to the ground and a new town was established to supply the military garrisons in the area. This was called Beiping. Yingtian (Nanjing) situated some hundred kilometres north became the Ming capital. The city of Beiping turned into Shuntian– now Beijing- in 1403. The construction of the new imperial residence, the Forbidden City, took from 1406 to 1420; this period was also accountable for several other of the modern city's major attractions, such as the Temple of Heaven and Tian'anmen (although the square facing it was not cleared until 1651). When everything was finished in 1421, Beijing became the empire's primary capital (Jingshi) and Yingtian – now called Nanjing – lost much of its importance. By the 15th century, Beijing had essentially taken its current shape. It is generally believed


Which famous tourist attraction can be viewed from the 'Maid Of The Mist'?

Maid of the Mist | Niagara Falls Attraction RESERVATIONS: 1-800-618-9059 Maid of the Mist The Maid of the Mist boat tours almost need no introduction. These ferries have been running along the Niagara River for a long time – since 1846 there has been a Maid of the Mist boat on the waters, originally as the only passage across the tumultuous Niagara River and quickly developing into a prestigious tourist attraction in its own right. As such it can boast as being one of the oldest attractions in North America, with frequent updates to its fleet to keep the experience safe, modern and enjoyable. The Maid has the privilege of allowing passengers to sidle up to the various waterfalls of Niagara, providing them with an opportunity to become intimately acquainted with the powerful landmark that defines the region. The Maid of the Mist ferries currently embark from a docking station on the American side of the Niagara River, at the base of the Prospect Point observation tower. The tower is the main entry point to the ferry – approach from the New York township of Niagara Falls at the top of the gorge and take the elevator down to reach the Maid’s loading point. Currently two ferries are operational, with one departing at least every half hour for the trip to the falls. The ferry takes passengers, all supplied with a complimentary poncho for the trip, along all three waterfalls that make up the Niagara landmark, swimming through the misty spray created by the sheer force of the cascading water. The Maid of the Mist ferries are an icon of Niagara Falls and one of the cornerstones of the region’s tourism industry. They operate from April to October in standard weather conditions, and when it’s operational the Maid always guarantees an amazing experience, regardless of the weather (after all, the ferry hands out ponchos for a reason – patrons on deck should expect to get wet!). Any visitor to the Niagara region owes it to themselves to ride the Maid of the Mist and travel the same route as Princess Diana and Mick Jagger, and enjoy the most iconic view of the waterfalls from the most iconic ride in Canada. While in Niagara Falls stay at the highly rated four star Marriott on the Falls Hotel. Combine our best rates with valuable add-ons with one of our:


Which London railway station has the most platforms?

Which station has the most platforms? - SkyscraperCity Which station has the most platforms? User Name As a general reminder, please respect others and respect copyrights. Go here to familiarize yourself with our posting policy. Page 1 of 5 Likes (Received): 5382 Which station has the most platforms? I'm sure this has been covered before (probably ad nauseum) but I cant seem to get the search function to find anything. Just wondering if anyone can help answer somewthing I was discussing with some friends last night. We were trying to work out: Which train station has the most platforms in : a) London b) The UK My guess was Birmingham New Street for the UK and Clapham Junction for London. As an aside we all agreed that the station with the most platforms under a single roof would be Waterloo for London and Birmgingam New street for the UK. Last edited by Octoman; February 26th, 2010 at 12:42 PM.   These are a quick count of ones I use regularly: Stoke 3 Originally Posted by Zim Flyer These are a quick count of ones I use regularly: Stoke 3 Thats quite unusual isnt it? To have an odd number of platforms I mean. I always thought they came in pairs. My local station in Epsom has 4 platforms. Just down the line is Cheam station which has to be a candidate for the weirdest station in the UK. It has two platforms with a massive no mans land between them. It looks horrible. They should at least plant some flowers or something.   Thats quite unusual isnt it? To have an odd number of platforms I mean. I always thought they came in pairs. Nope, there are quite a few with odd numbered platforms Weybridge is a good example. 3 platforms, 2 for the mainline and 1 for the terminus coming from Addlestone.   If you add Underground and the unused Eurostar platforms, Waterloo has 32.   Thats quite unusual isnt it? To have an odd number of platforms I mean. I always thought they came in pairs. Yeh Stoke is a strange one, it's a busy station but doesn't have many platforms.  Platform 3 is a buffer stop and is for the local train stations between Stoke and Manchester.   Nice "North Staffordshire Railway" or "Knotty" architecture at Stoke.   Thats quite unusual isnt it? To have an odd number of platforms I mean. I always thought they came in pairs. My local station in Epsom has 4 platforms. Just down the line is Cheam station which has to be a candidate for the weirdest station in the UK. It has two platforms with a massive no mans land between them. It looks horrible. They should at least plant some flowers or something. That's because Cheam used to have four platforms, with an island platform between the remaining pair, so fast services could overtake stoppers. (If you look closely, you can see where the subway linking the platforms was modified when the island was removed.) Greenwich used to have a similar wide layout dating to its opening in 1836; it was a terminus for some decades and had additional tracks the purpose. The gap was removed with the arrival of the DLR, which involved resiting the "up" platform closer to the "down" to make room for the DLR's own facilities.


What colour is the leftmost stripe on the French flag?

World's Ten Most Colorful Flags World's Ten Most Colorful Flags World's 10 Most Colorful Flags Here are ten of the most colorful flags from around the world. While it is fairly common for flags to have just three colors, like the red, white, and blue of the United States or the black, red, and gold of Germany, some flags are much more colorful than that. What makes a flag colorful tends to be a subjective decision, however. There are many flags that use eight or more colors in them, but because the majority of the colors appear in small sections of a coat of arms, it just doesn't seem that colorful. Likewise, other flags may only have three or four colors, but a complex primary design or prominent display of the colors makes the flags appear to be extremely colorful. Here are ten of the world's most colorful flags. For our purposes here, we have considered design as well as the number of colors in selecting the most colorful flags.       As the only nation to use six colors in their flag's primary design, South Africa gets first place on our list of the world's most colorful flags. The flag's design is made up of a green horizontal Y, positioned so that the Y touches both the upper and lower left corners of the flag. The triangular shape along the leftmost end of the flag is black with a yellow border. On the right side of the flag, the area above the Y is red, and the area below is blue, both with a white border. The colors and the Y design are meant to represent the convergence of two separate paths: those of the South Africans, and those of the Europeans who colonized the country. Turkmenistan Although with four colors in its design, Turkmenistan's flag is far from having the most colors. It does have the honor of being the most intricate of all the national flags in the world. The flag is primarily green, but with a wide vertical stripe near the left end of the flag. This stripe is primarily red, with five tribal patterns that are used in designing the traditional rugs the country is known for. Orange, white, red, and green can be found in the tribal designs, with a white crescent moon encompassing five white five-pointed stars on the field of green to the right of the stripe, near the top of the flag. Obviously, the five tribal designs represent the country's traditional heritage, while the five stars stand for the five regions of the nation. Saint-Pierre and Miquelon The flag of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is a very interesting flag. Designed in 1982, this flag is actually a local flag, with the flag of France used as the islands' official flag. The design depicts a yellow ship on a light blue background with waves drawn in black and white, with three flags forming a narrow border along the leftmost side of the flag: a white, green, and red design in the top third, a black and white design in the middle third, and two yellow lions on a red background in the bottom third. The ship represents the colonization of the islands beginning in 1535, while the three individual designs stand for the origins of the islands' colonists: Basque Country (top), Brittany (middle), and Normandy (bottom). Central Africa The Central African Republic uses five colors in their flag: blue, white, green, yellow, and red. The colors are boldly blocked out in four horizontal stripes of the first four colors, bisected by a single vertical stripe in red. All of the stripes are the same width. In the upper left hand corner, on the leftmost end of the blue stripe, is a single yellow five-point star. Like many nations' flags, the colors represent various pieces of the country's history: The colors are those of the Pan-African and French flags combined, with the red stripe present to represent the bloodshed in the battle for independence. The star is there as a reminder of the hopes for a great future. Dominica The country of Dominica uses six different colors, but not all of those colors are used in the flag's primary design. The flag features a centered cross of yellow, black, and white stripes, with a green background. In the center of the cross


In which district of London would you find Harrods department store?

Harrods (London, England): Top Tips Before You Go - TripAdvisor Seven floors and 330 departments showcase the best of luxury merchandise, from high-end fashion and accessories to the finest homewares and the latest technology. There are 28 restaurants in-store; we continue to enhance our portfolio with Galvin Demoiselle, Bentley's Sea Grill, and the institution that is The Georgian. Customers enjoy a wealth of exclusive services, such as By Appointment Personal Shopping and The Penthouse, a private suite dedicated to unsurpassed bespoke service in a beautiful environment. Urban Retreat at Harrods spa, a theatre ticket bureau, and The Studio, the store's interior-design service. Qatar Holding acquired the business in 2010, and it continues to guide - and invest strongly in - the store according to its philosophy: Anything is possible. surpass the desires and expectations of its customers, staying true to its original motto: Omnia omnibus ubique (everything for everyone, everywhere). Harrods is located on Brompton Road, near the Knightsbridge London Underground station. Neighborhood Profile Knightsbridge When millions of tourists want to shop 'til they drop, they do it along Brompton Road and its boutique-lined tributaries, including the world-renowned Harrods. And when millionaires want to flaunt what they've already got, many of them find Knightsbridge and Belgravia the perfect place to do so, often behind stately mansion walls or down quiet private mews. Delve beyond the ultra-luxe exterior and you'll find some of this city's cosiest pubs, quiet gardens, and all sorts of indie retailers and enterprises worth a short exercise in spontaneous window shopping. For those looking to take a break from shopping, Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, and some of the city's most popular museums are nearby.


In the song The Twelve Days Of Christmas, how many ladies dancing are given as gifts in total?

The Twelve Days of Christmas - How Many Presents? » The Twelve Days of Christmas - How Many Presents? The Twelve Days of Christmas - How Many Presents? By Murray Bourne , 16 Dec 2008 A partridge in a pear tree Most people wrongly believe that the '12 Days of Christmas' refers to the days before Christmas. However, it's really the period starting on Christmas day and finishing with the Epiphany (January 6th, when the 3 kings from 'the East' brought gifts). You may be familiar with the Christmas song, The 12 Days of Christmas. The first few lines go like this: On the first day of Christmas, my true love sent to me A partridge in a pear tree. On the second day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. On the third day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. The song continues, adding 4 calling birds on the 4th day, 5 golden rings on the 5th, and so on up to the 12th day, when 12 drummers add to the cacophony of assorted birds, pipers and lords leaping all over the place. Notice that on each day there is one partridge (so I will have 12 partridges by the 12th day), and each day from the second day onwards there are 2 doves (so I will have 22 doves), and from the 3rd there are 3 hens (total of 30 hens), and so on. So, how many presents are there altogether? Partridges: 1 × 12 = 12 Calling birds: 4 × 9 = 36 Golden rings: 5 × 8 = 40 Geese: 6 × 7 = 42 Drummers: 12 × 1 = 12 Total = 364 We observe that we have the same number of partridges as drummers (12 of each); doves and pipers (22 of each); hens and lords (30 of each) and so on. So the easiest way to count our presents is to add up to the middle of the list and then double the result: (12 + 22 + 30 + 36 + 40 + 42) × 2 = 364. Efficiently counting the presents What if we have more than 12 days? How many presents then? Let's now generalize the above result just in case out true love decides to be extraordinarily generous and keeps on giving us gifts - up to 100 days, say. (Multiplying and adding could get quite tedious.) Mathematically speaking, my true love is giving me 1 + 2 + 3 + ... + n presents on the n-th day after Christmas. The number of presents each day is 1 on the 1st, then 3 on the 2nd, then 6 on the 3rd, then 10 on the 4th. We call this set of numbers the triangular numbers, because they can be drawn in a dot pattern that forms triangles: To get the total number of presents, we need to add those triangular numbers, like this: 1 (on the first day) + 3 (on the 2nd day) + 6 + 10 + ... Another way of writing this is: On the first day, 1 present. On the 2nd day, 1 + 3 = 4 presents On the 3rd day, 1 + 3 + 6 = 10 presents On the 4th day, 1 + 3 + 6 + 10 = 20 presents. These partial sums are called tetrahedral numbers, because they can be drawn as 3-dimensional triangular pyramids (tetrahedrons) like this: So how many dots (representing presents) will there be in the 12th tetrahedron? Of course, we could just start adding with our calculator, but what if my true love is very generous, and starts giving me presents for 30 days after Christmas? Or for 100 days? How would I calculate it then? Our aim is to produce a formula that will allow us to find any tetrahedral number. Here's one of the possible ways of doing this. Let's take (for example) the sum of the first 4 triangular numbers and represent it as a triangle. Each row in the triangle (on the left, below) adds to a triangular number and the sum of the whole triangle is the sum of the first 4 triangular numbers. Let's now re-arrange the first triangle in 2 different ways, then add the result, in respective positions. (My total is 3 times what I really need. I will divide by 3 later to cater for this). Notice that by doing this, I get a total of 6 in every position in the result triangle. The answer of "6" is 2 more than the 4 triangular numbers that we are adding. So if we were adding the first 7 triangular numbers, our result in the right triangle would be all 9's; if it was the first n triangular numbers, we


Who was the first monarch in Britain to make a Christmas Day broadcast?

The first Christmas speech | History of government The first Christmas speech — No 10 guest historian series , Prime Ministers and No. 10 , The Monarchy Through one of the marvels of modern Science, I am enabled, this Christmas Day, to speak to all my peoples throughout the Empire. I take it as a good omen that Wireless should have reached its present perfection at a time when the Empire has been linked in closer union. For it offers us immense possibilities to make that union closer still. King George V - Christmas Speech - 1932 These were the opening lines of the first Christmas speech broadcast by King George V in 1932, an institution that has now continued uninterrupted for eighty years. Yet securing agreement for the first Christmas message broadcast by a monarch was not  as smooth as the King’s eventual delivery and, if it were not for efforts of the then Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald, it might never have happened. Reluctant speaker By the 1920s radio was increasingly becoming the medium through which leaders could talk to their nations and, in some cases, their empires, with radio the norm in the US by this point. Inspired by this, John Reith, General Manager of the newly formed BBC, wrote to the King in 1923 to inquire whether he would be interested in ‘delivering a message to his people’ on a significant holiday such as Christmas, New Year or Easter.  Unfortunately, the King was a reluctant speech-giver – due to a self-perceived lack of oral talent – and also an unashamed technophobe. He politely declined this request, much to the BBC’s disappointment. The next year the BBC gave the King a radio set, which was gratefully received and regularly used, the King being a particular fan of the news service; but the set did little to encourage him to make a personal address. At the opening of various functions throughout the 1920s, such as the British Empire Exhibition in 1924, the King’s opening addresses were recorded by the BBC, with some attracting around 10 million listeners throughout the empire, a record for the period. However, despite his evident popularity with radio audiences, the King could not be persuaded to give a personal message to the population on Christmas Day. This was due largely to his belief that he lacked the sophistication and flair of other broadcasters, and as the message would be personal in nature he could not hide behind formality to combat his fears. Even his Private Secretary, Lord Stamfordham, who favoured the idea (and whose advice the King trusted and mostly accepted) felt that pursuing a Christmas speech by the monarch was a lost cause. Simple and honest All this changed with the appointment of Ramsay MacDonald as the first Labour Prime Minister in 1929, a man whose simplicity in approach the King admired and respected. MacDonald assuaged many of the King’s fears about a personal broadcast, saying that a simple, honest approach would be more than adequate for the task. The Prime Minister suggested that Rudyard Kipling could write the speech, thus relieving the King of another anxiety. However, it was the new Statute of Westminster, signed in 1931, that finally persuaded the King. This was the first step in transforming the Empire into the Commonwealth, as it effectively removed the dominion nations from Britain’s direct imperial control, thereby creating a federation of equals under the Crown. At this time of change and financial hardship, MacDonald explained to the King, the Monarchy was pivotal for maintaining unity. So, on Christmas Day 1932, as the people of the British Empire sat around their radios, the King entered their home – verbally at least – for the first time. The event had been widely trailed in the newspapers, the reports emphasising that the King would deliver a personal message to his people as opposed to a formal address – a novelty then. The speech was advertised in one Australian newspaper as ‘proof of the innate solidarity of Empire’. From his naval days the King felt most comfortable in small rooms, so the speech was made from the box room under the stairs a


On what date does Saint Nicholas' Day fall? December 6th, December 16th or December 26th?

How and when did St. Nicholas day (December 6th) become associated with Christmas day (December 25th)? - Quora Quora Written Jan 8, 2016 December 6 is the Feast Day for Saint Nicholas - meaning that Catholics (all Christians before the Reformation) remembered him and celebrated him on that day.  Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of children, and so there would be many celebrations featuring children - some churches would have "boy bishop" celebrations where boys would perform the functions of the bishop.  Because Saint Nicholas gave gifts to children, and his feast was during the time of Advent (the 4 weeks leading up to Christmas) he became linked with Christmas celebrations.  Some countries and traditions use St. Nick and Santa Claus interchangeably, but they are 2 very distinct individuals.  St. Nick doesn't have elves or live at the north pole :) You can learn more about St. Nicholas at the St. Nicholas Center website: Discovering the Truth About Santa Claus


Which Christmas number one includes the line All I wish that everyday was christmas, what a nice way to spend the year?

Shakin' Stevens - Merry Christmas Everyone lyrics | LyricsMode.com Merry Christmas Everyone lyrics To explain lyrics, select line or word and click "Explain". Create lyrics explanation Select some words and click "Explain" button. Then type your knowledge, add image or YouTube video till "Good-o-meter" shows "Cool" or "Awesome!". Publish your explanation with "Explain" button. Get karma points! OK, got it! New! Read & write lyrics explanations Highlight lyrics and explain them to earn Karma points. Shakin' Stevens – Merry Christmas Everyone lyrics Snow is falling Time for parties and celebration People dancing all night long Time for presents Time for singing christmas songs We're gonna have a party tonight I'm gonna find that girl underneath the misteltoe, We'll kissed by candlelight Room is swaying, records playing All the old songs, we love to hear All I wish that everyday was christmas What a nice way to spend the year We're gonna have a party tonight I'm gonna find that girl Underneath the mistletoe, we'll kiss by candle light Snow is fallin, all around me Children playing, having fun It's the season, love and understanding Merry christmas everyone Snow is falling, all around me Children playing, having fun It's the season, love and understanding Merry christmas everyone Snow is falling, all around me Children playing, having fun It's the season, love and understanding Merry christmas everyone Snow is falling, all around me Children playing, having fun It's the season, love and understanding Merry christmas everyone Correct Add song structure elements Click "Correct" to open the "Correction form". There you can add structure tags, correct typos or add missing words. Send your correction and get karma points! Result of your work will appear after moderating. OK, got it! 0 UnregisteredNov 18, 2013 at 9:10 pm This song is just so flippin nice - everyone jive to it this christmas. Go stevie basically sucha nice guy I reckon this song should be top hits stevie should be made like a serious popstar he is like one cooool dude funky toon loony toons basically lets all sing this song this christmas we could like make the worrrld spin! We could get mrs armitage burping her purple breath out! This is like one cool song! Who likes christmas songs? Me moi j'inclure john fulcher do you like christmas songs? Of coss! Shaky stevie should make milkshakes then he could be called milkshakin stevens weep. Still laffing now. Egbert managed to expire his last kindred eggpuff before spitting vehemently upon the unearthly grail which had a sincere but excruciating meaning which took espousals from all areas of the post war effort in which talktalk posted their extra beneficial animal testing campaign which lasted through the christmas of 2009 right up to the astronomical effort in which lassez faire economics played serious and unbelievable aspirational attributes to the aphological esitanes which grabedes upon all aexenes of the english acronyms. Add your reply Write about your feelings and thoughts Know what this song is about? Does it mean anything special hidden between the lines to you? Share your meaning with community, make it interesting and valuable. Make sure you've read our simple tips Hey! It's useful. If this song really means something special to you, describe your feelings and thoughts. Don't hesitate to explain what songwriters and singer wanted to say. Also we collected some tips and tricks for you: Don't write just "I love this song." Hidden between the lines, words and thoughts sometimes hold many different not yet explained meanings Remember: your meaning might be valuable for someone Don't post links to images and links to facts Write correctly Don't spam and write clearly off-topic meanings Don't write abusive, vulgar, offensive, racist, threatening or harassing meanings Do not post anything that you do not have the right to post Please note: We moderate every meaning Follow these rules and your meaning will be published . Write song meaning Type your knowledge till "Good-o-meter" shows "Awesome!". Then send your mean


What 'D' is the name of Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer's dad?

What is the name of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer's mother? - Quora Christmas What is the name of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer's mother? The Rankin and Bass special mentions that Donner is his father, but the name of his mother is never mentioned as far as I can tell. Written Jun 1, 2016 I was suffering from cysts on my ovaries in 2007. Very painful. One grew to the size of a cantaloupe by 2011. I knew something was wrong! My Obgyn simply said, “Just a cyst….don't worry about it honey.” Fast forward from 07 to 11. I was sick. Vomiting everywhere, peeing nonstop, high fevers, pale, a bulge in my belly…I could not stop urinating. I went to several doctors, including a top urologis... Updated Nov 24 My U.S. Government teacher gave me a B+ on my senior term paper. I was happy. Then he said, "I would have given you an A but I know you wrote this yesterday and typed it today. It wouldn't be fair for me to give you an A when I'm failing another student who worked on it the full six weeks." My answer to him was it's not my fault, nor should I be punished, because I can write an A paper in two da...


Which 2004 film sees Tom Hanks take a boy on a trip to the North Pole to visit Santa Claus?

The Polar Express (2004) - IMDb IMDb There was an error trying to load your rating for this title. Some parts of this page won't work property. Please reload or try later. X Beta I'm Watching This! Keep track of everything you watch; tell your friends. Error In 1 theater near Seattle WA US [ change ] WATCH NOW ON DISC ALL A young boy embarks on a magical adventure to the North Pole on the Polar Express. During his adventure he learns about friendship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas. Director: a list of 46 titles created 10 Mar 2012 a list of 21 titles created 24 Dec 2013 a list of 29 titles created 07 Nov 2015 a list of 31 titles created 3 months ago a list of 37 titles created 1 week ago Title: The Polar Express (2004) 6.6/10 Want to share IMDb's rating on your own site? Use the HTML below. You must be a registered user to use the IMDb rating plugin. Nominated for     3     Oscars. Another    5 wins & 22 nominations. See more awards  » Videos An animated retelling of Charles Dickens' classic novel about a Victorian-era miser taken on a journey of self-redemption, courtesy of several mysterious Christmas apparitions. Director: Robert Zemeckis When a man inadvertantly kills Santa on Christmas Eve, he finds himself magically recruited to take his place. Director: John Pasquin After inadvertently wreaking havoc on the elf community due to his ungainly size, a man raised as an elf at the North Pole is sent to the U.S. in search of his true identity. Director: Jon Favreau On the outskirts of Whoville, there lives a green, revenge-seeking Grinch who plans on ruining the Christmas holiday for all of the citizens of the town. Director: Ron Howard An 8-year old troublemaker must protect his home from a pair of burglars when he is accidentally left home alone by his family during Christmas vacation. Director: Chris Columbus A grumpy hermit hatches a plan to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville. Directors: Chuck Jones, Ben Washam Stars: Boris Karloff, Thurl Ravenscroft, June Foray Scott Calvin has been a humble Santa Claus for nearly ten years, but it might come to an end if he doesn't find a Mrs. Claus. Director: Michael Lembeck One year after Kevin was left home alone and had to defeat a pair of bumbling burglars, he accidentally finds himself in New York City, and the same criminals are not far behind. Director: Chris Columbus In the 1940s, a young boy named Ralphie attempts to convince his parents, his teacher, and Santa that a Red Ryder B.B. gun really is the perfect Christmas gift. Director: Bob Clark Santa's clumsy son Arthur gets put on a mission with St. Nick's father to give out a present they misplaced to a young girl in less than 2 hours. Directors: Sarah Smith, Barry Cook Stars: James McAvoy, Jim Broadbent, Bill Nighy Frosty the Snowman (TV Short 1969) Animation | Short | Comedy A living snowman and a little girl struggle to elude a greedy magician who is after the snowman's magic hat. Directors: Jules Bass, Arthur Rankin Jr. Stars: Jackie Vernon, Billy De Wolfe, Jimmy Durante A father vows to get his son a Turbo Man action figure for Christmas, however, every store is sold out of them, and he must travel all over town and compete with everybody else in order to find one. Director: Brian Levant Edit Storyline This is the story of a young hero boy on Christmas Eve who boards on a powerful magical train that's headed to the North Pole and Santa Claus's home. What unfolds is an adventure which follows a doubting boy, who takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole; during this ride, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery which shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. Written by Anthony Pereyra {hypersonic91@yahoo.com} This Holiday Season... Believe. See more  » Genres: 10 November 2004 (USA) See more  » Also Known As: The Polar Express: An IMAX 3D Experience See more  » Filming Locations: $23,323,463        (USA) (12 November 2004) Gross: Did You Know? Trivia The locomotive in the movie is based on the Pere Marquette 1225, a restored steam locomoti


Which Generation Game presenter was famous for his catchphrase Shut That Door?

BBC - Coventry and Warwickshire - History - Shut that door with Larry Grayson You are in: Coventry and Warwickshire > History > Famous People > Shut that door with Larry Grayson Larry Grayson Shut that door with Larry Grayson Nuneaton's Larry Grayson was one of the most popular performers of his generation, discover a little more about the fabulous comedian. Pop-it-in-Pete, Apricot Lil and, best of all, Slack Alice and Everard became close friends of the British public during the 1970s and it was all thanks to one man. It was the amazing Larry Grayson, star of the Generation Game and stages up and down the country - as well as a star of his beloved Nuneaton community, where he spent most of his life. Larry was a true comic genius, who could make millions of people howl at their TVs on a Saturday night with just a raise of an eyebrow or a shout of "shut that door!". But it was from humble beginnings that one of the greatest ever light entertainers came. Paying attention Born William White in Banbury in 1923, he was put up for adoption by his unmarried mother Ethel. At the tender age of ten days, he arrived in Nuneaton to live with his new foster family, Alice and Jim Hammond and their daughters Flo and May. Sadly, Alice died when young Billy was just six and eldest sister Flo took it upon herself to take special care of her baby brother. She adopted the role of Billy’s mother and their special and very deep relationship led to him thinking of her, and referring to her, as Mum for the rest of his life. Larry's agent and star maker, Michael Grade Billy’s early days in Nuneaton helped to form some of his comic creations for his later life. The closely-knit community was typical of its time, with plenty of gossip over back fences, on the bus and on the streets and he listened intently, storing up some of the seemingly mundane conversations for later life. His showbusiness bent started early and he staged shows for friends and neighbours at his home - proving a huge success and paving the way for his future ambitions. Becoming Larry After leaving school, Billy started work in a shoe shop but he lasted only two days before a kindly neighbour offered him a slot at the local working men’s club. His stage debut saw him sing the music hall ditty In the Bushes at the Bottom of the Garden - and he became a roaring success. His act progressed as he began working in other clubs around the Midlands and he eventually extended his act to include drag - he dressed as a woman in the first half and came back on as a man. Not many people realised the acts both side of the break were one and the same person, a testament to his success! Larry takes to the floor His act continued - under his new stage name of Billy Breen - until he linked up with agent Eve Taylor. They decided on a name change, she chose Larry and he chose Grayson after one of his idols, the singer Kathryn Grayson, star of Kiss Me Kate. Shut that door! He continued his trek around the country’s clubs for 30 years as Larry Grayson but though popular, wasn’t receiving the recognition he craved. His health began to suffer and he suffered three burst ulcers during 1969 and then from nervous problems. Things were about to change, however, and when young Michael Grade spotted him performing in London, he was signed up immediately and under Grade’s management, he started to get some television appearances. He proved a massive hit instantly and was signed up for his own show, Shut That Door - a half an hour long variety show, featuring his inimitable brand of comedy and led to him being voted Britain’s Funniest Man in the TV Times awards, voted for by the public. He continued working for ITV for more than six years, recording more of his own shows and specials and worked in many of his famous characters, like Slack Alice, Apricot Lil and Everard. However, he never left his roots and though he was able to move to a more exclusive part of the town, he remained in Nuneaton and the only visible show of his new fortune was a white Rolls Royce. Larry Grayson with Isla St Clair Scores on the d