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Az Ének az esőben (eredeti cím: Singin' in the Rain) 1952-ben bemutatott színes, amerikai filmmusical. A főszerepeket Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor, Debbie Reynolds és Jean Hagen játsszák.

Stanley Donen alkotása minden idők egyik legnépszerűbb filmjének számít: az Amerikai Filmintézet (AFI) 2007-ben például minden idők legnagyobb amerikai filmjei között az 5. helyre sorolta. Az Entertainment Weekly listáján a 10. helyen szerepel, és a rangsorban egyetlen más musical sem előzi meg. A címadó sláger – részben a különböző feldolgozásoknak is köszönhetően – igazi örökzöldnek számít, bár kevésbé köztudott, hogy valójában egy korábbi filmből származik, akárcsak a dalok többsége: mindössze 2 új dalt írtak az Ének az esőben számára, ebből is az egyik plágiumgyanús. Az 50. évfordulóra kiadott DVD-változat extráinak egyikében hangzik el az az információ, hogy a film eredeti negatívja egy tűzben megsemmisült.

A történet

1927, Hollywood. A csillogó filmvárosban éppen az "álompár", Don Lockwood és Lina Lamont új filmje, a Frivol felség díszbemutatójára készülnek. A filmszínház előtt tolongó közönség ovációval fogadja az egymás után érkező sztárokat. Végre megérkezik a két főszereplő is, Lockwood jó barátja, Cosmo Brown társaságában. Dora, a konferanszié arról faggatja őket, hogyan kezdődött Don és Lina kapcsolata, és össze fognak-e házasodni. Don a házasságra vonatkozó kérdést azzal hárítja el, hogy ő és Lina csupán munkatársak és barátok. Pályája történetéről igazi hollywoodi sikersztorit mond el a hallgatóságnak, miközben a megelevenedő emlékképeken a nézők a valóságot láthatják, mely nem igazán harmonizál az elmondottakkal. Így láthatjuk azt is, hogy Don valójában nyaktörő kaszkadőrmutatványokkal kezdte filmes karrierjét, és az elkényeztetett sztár, Lina mindaddig semmi érdeklődést nem mutatott iránta, amíg egy befolyásos producer nem ajánlott fel egy előnyös szerződést Lockwoodnak. Nem véletlen, hogy a nyilvánosság előtt csak Don beszél: Linának ugyanis fülsértő, mosolyt fakasztó hangja van. Miss Lamont ezzel persze nincs tisztában, és ragaszkodik ahhoz, hogy legközelebb ő is beszéljen. Később az utcán Dont lerohanják a rámenős rajongók, és a férfi csak úgy tud elmenekülni előlük, hogy beugrik egy arra autózó nő kocsijába. A bájos leány először bűnözőnek nézi a váratlan vendéget, és rendőrért kiált. A derék közeg viszont azonnal felismeri a filmsztárt, a leány tehát elnézést kér. Don öröme azonban korai: Kathynek egyáltalán nincs jó véleménye a filmszínészekről, szerinte a tátogás, az eltúlzott gesztusok a filmekben komolytalanok. A sértődött férfi megtudja, hogy szigorú kritikusa színpadi színésznő. Az újdonsült ismerősök nem sokkal az elválás után újra találkoznak egy fényes partin: Kathy az egyik fellépő táncosnő. Don néhány csípős megjegyzéssel viszonozza a lány korábbi észrevételeit a filmszínészi munkára vonatkozóan. Az összejövetel egyik meglepetése egy rövidke filmvetítés, melyben a vásznon feltűnő férfi meg is szólal. A vendégek valami tréfára gyanakodnak, és amikor kiderül, hogy egy új találmánnyal ismerkedhettek meg, egyikőjük se jósol nagy jövőt a hangosfilmnek. A parti kisebb botránnyal ér véget: Don addig élcelődik Kathy "művészet"-én, amíg a lány az arcába akar vágni egy tortát, ám az Linát találja el.

Csupán 3 hét múlik el, és a sajtó már az új találmány fantasztikus sikeréről áradozik: A dzsesszénekes címmel ugyanis bemutatták az első hangosfilmet, és a közönség tódul a mozikba. Don viszont inkább azon rágódik, hogy milyen rosszul végződött az ismeretsége a bájos Kathyvel, akit a tortás incidenst követően kirúgtak. Hamarosan megjelenik Lina, aki nem is titkolja, hogy kifejezetten az ő kívánságára rúgták ki Kathyt. A filmcsillag azt hiszi, hogy Don végre feleségül fogja venni őt, végtére is a bulvárlapok szerint ők egy pár, tehát ideje, hogy az életben is azok legyenek. Dont azonban csak felingerlik ezek a szavak, és a szerelmi jelenet felvétele közben partnernőjével kölcsönösen sértegetik egymást. Megérkezik R. F. Simpson, a producer, és leállítja a forgatást. Az ok: A dzsesszénekes hatalmas sikere. Kit fog érdekelni most már egy némafilm? Egyetlen megoldás, hogy az elkezdett produkcióból hangosfilmet kell csinálni, a színészeknek pedig beszédleckéket kell venniük. Don kérésére a producer hajlandó arra, hogy újra alkalmazza Kathyt, de azt kéri, hogy ezt Lina nehogy megtudja. A beszédórákon Lina teljesen reménytelen esetnek tűnik, Don viszont egészen jól elboldogul, pedig a nyelvtanár a legválogatottabb nyelvtörőket mondatja el vele: "Sárga bögre, sárga görbe bögre", "Cserép csengő csendülve zengő, csengettyűz és cseng.", "Kopasz kupac kukac, kúszik kószán kacagva. Csak kúsznak és kacagnak, kacagnak és kúsznak. A sok kúszó kis kukac egy kacagó kósza kopasz kupac.", "Mózes lesz móres, ha szósz lesz és sós lesz, mert Mózes, a jó szósz só nélküli. És Mózes lesz córesz, ha a sólet is sós lesz, mert Mózes, a sólet se sósan süti."

A forgatás folytatódik, de a munka nem megy könnyen, mivel Lina képtelen a rejtett mikrofonba beszélni. Végül valahogy mégis elkészül a Párbajok lovagja, melynek előpremierjét egy esős este tartják. A közönség fuldoklik a nevetéstől, mikor meghallja Lina igazi hangját. Ráadásul technikai problémák lépnek fel, a hang elcsúszik, ami újabb nevetés forrása lesz, hiszen a közönség például Linát látja tátogni, ám a képhez Don hangja érkezik a hangszóróból. A kínos kudarc után a barátok menteni próbálják a menthetőt, és az az ötletük támad, hogy musicallé kéne átalakítani a filmet. Cosmónak zseniális elképzelése van arra, hogy miként küszöböljék ki Lina fülsértő hangját: énekeljen helyette Kathy, persze úgy, hogy Lina meg ne tudja! A producernek tetszik a musical ötlete, sőt a playbacket is nagyszerű gondolatnak találja. A filmet rögtön át is keresztelik a Táncoló gavallérrá. Simpson el van ragadtatva Kathytől, és megígéri, hogy következő filmjében főszerepet oszt rá. Lina azonban megjelenik, és rövidesen kiderül, hogy a butácskának gondolt szőke filmcsillag nem ostoba, sőt személyes érdekei miatt Kathy iránti ellenszenvét is hajlandó félretenni. Szerződésére hivatkozva ragaszkodik ahhoz, hogy Kathy legyen ezentúl a hangja minden filmjében, sőt a lány ne is kapjon soha más munkát. A producer kénytelen beleegyezni Lina követeléseibe.

A Táncoló gavallér óriási sikert arat a bemutatón, és a tapsoló közönség követeli, hogy Lina Lamont beszéljen hozzájuk. Így is történik, ám a filmcsillag affektáló hangja nagy meglepetést és derültséget kelt, ezért a nézők azt kérik, hogy beszéd helyett inkább énekeljen nekik. Simpson, Don és Cosmo ravasz trükköt eszelnek ki, hogy egyszer s mindenkorra meghiúsítsák Lina önző követeléseit. Kiküldik a sztárt a függöny elé, hogy a közönség kérésének megfelelően énekeljen, miközben a függöny mögött valójában Kathy fog énekelni helyette. Egy óvatlan pillanatban felhúzzák a függönyt, és a közönség előtt leleplezik a turpisságot. Don a nyilvánosság előtt vall szerelmet Kathynek, és rövidesen már kettőjük új filmjét, az Ének az esőbent hirdetik a plakátok…

Így készült a film

Hollywoodi kulisszatitkok

Az Ének az esőben mulatságos bepillantást enged Hollywood kulisszatitkaiba, és számos utalást tartalmaz a filmváros egykori sztárjaira és korábbi filmsikereire. A cselekmény egy filmtörténeti fordulópont idején játszódik, amikor a hangosfilm megjelenése kezdte kiszorítani a mozikból a némafilmeket. Nagy sztárok kerültek a süllyesztőbe egyik pillanatról a másikra, mert hangjuk alkalmatlan volt az új filmkészítési technika számára. Igaz, a producerek nem is nagyon vesződtek azzal, hogy "néma" sztárjaikat megszólaltassák, hanem inkább új sztárokat fedeztek fel. Greta Garbo a kevés kivétel közé tartozott, akinek karrierjét nem törte derékba a hangosfilm megjelenése. Egykori partnere, John Gilbert – Az asszony és az ördög (1926) című filmben játszottak együtt először – azonban nem volt olyan szerencsés, mint Garbo. Ráadásul Gilbert karrierje nem is annyira a hangja miatt szakadt félbe, hanem inkább a filmmogulokkal való nézeteltérései, az intrikák és főleg azon bugyuta szövegek miatt, melyeket egyes hangosfilmjeiben mondania kellett. A férfi az alkoholban keresett feledést szakmai problémái elől, egészségi állapota megrendült, és végül fiatalon, szívrohamban elhunyt. Az Ének az esőben főhőse, Don Lockwood a Párbajok lovagja forgatásán olyasfajta idétlen mondatokat kénytelen mondani, melyek a valóságban Gilbert bukását okozták.

A film elején Dora Bailey felkonferálja a közönségnek a Frivol felség díszbemutatójára érkező sztárokat, akiket valódi hollywoodi hírességekről mintáztak: Zelda Zanders modellje Clara Bow volt, Olga Maráé Pola Negri, Mara férje, De la Ma de la Toulon báró pedig utalás Gloria Swanson híres férjére, Henri de la Falaise de Coudray márkira. A korszak egyik nagy csillagára, Norma Shearerre más módon történik utalás: az egyik jelenetben Don ugyanabból az öltözőből lép ki, melyet az 1930-as években Shearer is használt, majd néhány pillanattal később megjelenik Lina, aki pontosan ugyanolyan hatalmas parókát visel, mint amilyet Shearer a Marie Antoinette (1938) című filmben. Számos helyszín és jelmez a férfi főszerepet játszó Gene Kelly korábbi filmjeire utal: az Ének az esőben elején látható rövid jelenet Lockwood muskétásfilmjéből valójában a Kelly főszereplésével készült A három testőrből (1948) származik. A Gotta Dance című számhoz tartozó jelenet egyszerre több korábbi Kelly-filmre utal vissza: Nyári előadás (1950), A kalóz (1948), Egy amerikai Párizsban (1951), Words and Music (1948). A Nyári előadást idézi az a jelenet, amelyben Don beviszi Kathyt a stúdióba, és egymás után bekapcsolja a különböző fényeket. A Cyd Charisse-szel közös jelenet a Words and Musicre utal, amelyben Kelly Vera-Ellennel mutatott be hasonló táncjelenetet. Vannak egyéb hasonlóságok is más filmekkel. A nyitó képsort például a Hollywood Revue of 1929 (1929) egyik epizódja ihlette. A jelmeztervező Walter Plunkett 1929 óta dolgozott a szakmában, és számtalan anekdotát ismert arról, hogy a hőskorban miféle problémák jelentkeztek eleinte a hangrögzítéskor. Az a jelenet például, amikor a Párbajok lovagja forgatásán Lina a legyezőjével pajkosan megcsapkodja Lockwood vállát, ami az oda rejtett mikrofonban dobolásnak hangzik, egy valóban megtörtént eseten alapul, mely a Rio Rita (1929) forgatásán történt Bebe Danielsszel és John Bolesszal. Az élet egyébként utánozta a művészetet: a Párbajok lovagja forgatásán például az egyik hangfelvétel azért lett használhatatlan, mert a Lina dekoltázsába rejtett mikrofon a filmcsillag szívdobogását is felvette. Az Ének az esőben forgatásán pontosan ugyanez történt, amikor az egyik jelenet sikeres felvétele érdekében mikrofont rejtettek Debbie Reynolds blúzába.

A dalok java része éppúgy korábbi filmekből származott, mint ahogy a kellékek zöme is. A Fit as a Fiddle (And Ready for Love) előadása közben például a Don és Cosmo mögött látható függöny ugyanaz, mint amit a Strike Up the Band (1950) forgatásán használtak a The Gay Nineties című dalbetét felvétele során. Az az autó, melyben először látjuk Kathyt, Andy Hardy régi járgánya volt. Lockwood otthonának belsejét ugyanazokkal a tárgyakkal rendezték be, melyeket Greta Garbo és John Gilbert Az asszony és az ördög című filmjében használtak.

A szereposztás

Az Ének az esőben egy 1928-as film, az Excess Baggage remake-jének indult. A forgatókönyvíróknak (Adolph Green és Betty Comden) nem volt könnyű dolguk, mivel az alkotók legelőször a dalokat válogatták össze, tehát olyan cselekményt kellett kitalálniuk, melybe illettek a kiválasztott zeneszámok. A témaválasztáshoz inspirációt jelentett az is, hogy a forgatókönyvírók egy olyan hollywoodi villában laktak, melyet egy volt némafilmsztártól vásároltak, akinek a pályáját a hangosfilm megjelenése törte derékba.

Don Lockwood szerepét a stúdió illetékesei kezdetben Howard Keelnek szánták. A forgatókönyvírók azonban a figurát végül énekes-táncossá formálták, erre a szerepkörre viszont a westernekből ismert Keel már nem volt alkalmas, ezért Gene Kellyt választották helyette. Cosmo Brown szerepét részben Oscar Levantról mintázták, és neki is ajánlották fel, de különböző okokból végül Donald O'Connort szerződtették. Cosmo kezdetben némafilmeket kísért zongorán, akárcsak az Ének az esőben producere, Arthur Freed. Kathy Selden megformálására több ismert színésznő neve is felmerült, mint például Judy Garland, June Allyson és Jane Powell, de végül valamennyiüket túlkorosnak találták, és a szerepet egy kezdő, Debbie Reynolds kapta, miután próbafelvétele meggyőzőre sikerült. Lina Lamontot Adolph Green és Betty Comden részben jó barátjukról, Judy Hollidayről mintázták, sőt neki is szánták a szerepet. Holliday azonban hatalmas sikert aratott a Tegnap született (1950) című filmmel, és a producerek úgy gondolták, ezek után el se fogadna egy epizódszerepet. Maga Judy Garland ajánlotta a producerek figyelmébe Jean Hagent, aki a beugrója volt a Broadwayn a Tegnap született színpadi változatában. Lina Lamont megformálásáért Hagent Oscar-díjra jelölték. R. F. Simpson producer nevében az R. F. utalás az Ének az esőben producerére, Arthur Freedre, sőt Simpsontól Freed egyik kedvenc mondása is elhangzik a filmben a Broadway-jelenet előtt: "Nem tudom elképzelni, amíg nem látom a filmvásznon." Igazából ez is egy vicces megjegyzés, hiszen a jelenet beállításai és a közben elhangzó dalok korábban bemutatott alkotásokat idéznek. A filmben két olyan színésznő is kisebb szerepet kapott, akik később zenés-táncos produkciókkal lettek sztárok. A Broadway-epizódban a táncosnőt Cyd Charisse alakítja, aki 1943 óta szerepelt filmekben, mint táncosnő vagy mellékszereplő. Az Ének az esőben említett jelenetében Louise Brooks stílusú vampként látható. Táncjelenete annyira sikeres volt, hogy az MGM a továbbiakban már főszerepeket bízott rá: ő lett például – Ginger Rogers mellett – a legendás Fred Astaire legismertebb, sőt egyes vélemények szerint Rogersnél is jobb partnere. Lina intrikus barátnőjét, Zeldát Rita Moreno alakítja, akit a magyar közönség főleg a West Side Story (1961) című filmből ismerhet.

A forgatás

A forgatás 1951. június 18-án kezdődött, és 1951. november 21-én ért véget. 1951. december 16-án néhány kiegészítő felvételre került sor. A munka feszített tempóban zajlott, a forgatás nem egyszer az esti órákba nyúlt. A főszereplő Gene Kelly mint koreográfus a táncjelenetek rendezésében is részt vett, partnereitől pedig éppúgy a profizmust és a maximalizmust várta el, mint saját magától. Kellynek magas láza volt akkor, amikor a címadó dalhoz tartozó jelenetet vették fel, ennek ellenére nem mondta le a forgatást. Egyébként nem igazi esőben énekelt, mivel az nem érvényesült volna a filmvásznon. A szakemberek víz és tej keverékéből állították elő az esőt, e különleges keveréknek köszönhetően azonban a felvétel végére Kelly gyapjúöltönye összement. A maximalista színész nem volt megelégedve azzal, ahogyan cipője kopog az esős aszfalton, ezért a hangot utószinkronizálta két koreográfus-asszisztense, Carol Haney és Gwen Verdon közreműködésével. (Egyikőjük neve sem szerepel a stáblistán.) A hölgyek bokáig álltak egy vízzel teli "dob"-ban, és a jelenetnek megfelelően kopogtak a cipőjükkel a vízben. Kelly egyébként Carol Haney-t ajánlotta Kathy Selden szerepére, de a producerek nem őt választották.

A forgatás idején mindössze 19 esztendős Debbie Reynolds számára különösen nagy erőpróba volt a film. Évekkel később azt nyilatkozta, hogy életében két, valóban nehéz dolog volt: az egyik a gyerekszülés, a másik pedig az Ének az esőben forgatása. Debbie 1951-ben a szüleivel élt együtt, és mindennap hajnali négykor kelt, hogy időben érkezzen a forgatásra, ahová három különböző busszal tudott eljutni. Előfordult, hogy este lekéste a járatot, és olyankor egyszerűen a díszletek között aludt. Ennél azonban jóval nagyobb probléma volt számára, hogy Gene Kelly rendszeresen kritizálta a tánctudását. Egy ízben partnere szavai annyira kiborították, hogy elbújt egy zongora alá, hogy kisírja magát. Ott talált rá a látogatóba érkezett Fred Astaire, aki lovagiasan felajánlotta, hogy segít neki a tánc betanulásában. A Good Morning felvétele után Reynoldst az öltözőjébe kellett vinni, mert a megerőltető táncszám következtében néhány véredény elrepedt a lábában. Ennek ellenére Kelly úgy döntött, hogy szinkronizálni kell Reynolds lábainak a hangját ebben a jelenetben. (Igaz, a saját lábai hangját is utószinkronizáltatta.) Kelly később elismerte, hogy valóban nem volt barátságos Debbie-vel, sőt csodálkozott is, hogy a színésznő a kínos incidensek ellenére is hajlandó volt szóba állni vele. A film utolsó jelenetében, amikor Lockwood, Cosmo és Simpson leleplezik a közönség előtt, hogy nem Lina, hanem Kathy énekelt, a lány el akar futni kedvese elől, de a férfi szavaira – "Ő a film igazi csillaga." – megtorpan, és könnyes szemekkel Don felé fordul. Reynoldsnak nem ment a spontán sírás, ezért a jelenet előtt hagymával dörzsölte a szemeit, hogy valódi könnyei legyenek. Ironikus filmtörténeti érdekesség, hogy a cselekmény szerint Kathy énekel Lina helyett, a valóságban viszont fordított volt a helyzet: Reynolds dalait a filmben nem ő énekelte, hanem a Linát játszó Jean Hagen – akinek a filmbeli rikácsoló hanggal ellentétben a valóságban nagyon szép énekhangja volt –, illetve Betty Noyes. A You Are My Lucky Star című dalt viszont Debbie Reynolds énekével vették fel, de végül kihagyták. A kihagyott jelenet a jubileumi DVD egyik extrája, a dalt Kathy egy Dont ábrázoló óriásplakát előtt énekli el.

A Cosmo Brownt játszó Donald O'Connor számára sem volt igazán élvezetes a Kellyvel való közös munka. Később azt nyilatkozta, hogy Kelly egy zsarnok volt, ő pedig valósággal rettegett attól, hogy valami hibát követ el, és híres kollégája ordítozni fog vele emiatt. Ennek ellenére az a híresztelés járta, hogy Kelly türelmes volt O'Connorral. Cosmo Brownnak egyetlen szólószáma van a filmben, a Make 'Em Laugh. Eredetileg nem ezt énekelte volna, hanem a The Wedding of the Painted Doll című dalt. Az alkotók azonban tudtak arról, hogy O'Connor számos mulatságos trükköt ismer, melyeket korábban kabarékban használt, ezért inkább a Make 'Em Laugh című dalt adták neki, hogy ezeket a szórakoztató gegeket stílszerűen elő tudja adni. Az egyik trükk az volt, hogy O'Connor felfut a falra, és egy bukfenccel ér ismét földet. A jelenet felvétele több napig tartott, és fizikailag annyira igénybe vette a színészt, hogy a stressz miatt állítólag napi négy doboz cigarettát szívott el. A Make 'Em Laugh felvétele után a kimerült színész néhány napra kórházba került. Miután visszatért a forgatásra, rossz hírrel fogadták: valamilyen technikai malőr miatt a felvétel tönkrement, és meg kell ismételni. O'Connor beleegyezett az ismétlésbe.

A The Wedding of the Painted Doll bekerült abba az egyvelegbe, amely a Beautiful Girl előtt látható. Ennek az egyvelegnek a része az I Got a Feelin' You're Foolin''' című dal is, melyet eredetileg a Zeldát játszó Rita Moreno énekelt volna. A dalokat illetően voltak egyéb változtatások is. A Singin' in the Raint például egy korai elképzelés szerint a három főszereplő énekelte volna, miután távoztak a Párbajok lovagja nevetésbe fulladt előpremierjéről. (A film főcíme alatt e kihagyott jelenetből látható egy rövid részlet.) A You Were Meant for Me című dal a forgatókönyv korai változatában még nem szerepelt. Később úgy tervezték, hogy ez lesz az a szerelmes dal, melyet Kelly akkor kezd el énekelni, amikor Reynolds után szalad Simpson partyjáról, és az ének Kelly házánál ért volna véget. A jelenetet fel is vették, de végül nem használták fel, a képsor pedig az évek folyamán elveszett. A dal végül más formában hallható a filmben, abban a jelenetben, melyben Don a stúdióban vall szerelmet Kathynek, miután bekapcsolta a fényeket.

 A dalok

 Singin' in the Rain [a Hollywood Revue of 1929 (1929) című filmből]
 Fit as a Fiddle (And Ready for Love) [a College Coach (1933) című filmből]
 Temptation [csak instrumentális változatban, a Going Hollywood (1933) című filmből]
 All I Do Is Dream of You [a Sadie McKee (1934) című filmből]
 Make 'Em Laugh [Ezt egy eredeti dalnak tartják, noha erősen emlékeztet Cole Porter Be a Clown című szerzeményére, ámbár állítólag Porter engedélyezte a felhasználást. A Make 'Em Laugh legelején Cosmo Brown ironikusan azt énekli, hogy "ridi pagliaccio" (Kacagj, Bajazzo!), amely Leoncavallo Bajazzók című operájára utal.]
 Beautiful Girl Montage [Egyveleg az I Got a Feelin' You're Foolin,' a The Wedding of the Painted Doll és a Should I? című dalokból. Az első a Broadway Melody of 1936 (1935), a második a The Broadway Melody (1929), a harmadik pedig a Lord Byron of Broadway (1930) című filmből származik.]
 Beautiful Girl [a Going Hollywood című filmből]
 You Were Meant for Me [a The Broadway Melody (1929) című filmből]
 You Are My Lucky Star [a Broadway Melody of 1936 (1935) című filmből]
 Moses Supposes [zene: Roger Edens, szöveg: Betty Comden és Adolph Green]
 Good Morning [a Babes in Arms (1939) című filmből]
 Would You? [a San Francisco (1936) című filmből]
 Broadway Melody Ballet [Egyveleg a The Broadway Melody és a Broadway Rhythm című dalokból. Az előbbi a The Broadway Melody (1929) című filmből, az utóbbi a Broadway Melody of 1936 (1935) című filmből származik.]

 Érdekességek

 Az Ének az esőben néhány jelmezét később felhasználták a Deep In My Heart (1954) című filmben.
 A gyártási költség 665 ezer dollárral lépte túl az előirányzott keretet, és ebből 157 ezer dollár csak a jelmezekre ment el. Az MGM-nek azonban nem volt oka panaszra, mivel az első körben 7,7 millió dollár volt a bevétel.
 A címadó dal az Amerikai Filmintézet (AFI) 100 év, 100 dal elnevezésű listáján a 3. helyen szerepel. Ugyanezen a listán a Make 'Em Laugh a 49., a Good Morning pedig a 72. helyezett. Az Ének az esőben az AFI rangsorolása szerint az elmúlt 100 év legjobb filmmusicalje, a 100 év, 100 film elnevezésű listán pedig 1997-ben a 10., 2007-ben viszont már az 5. helyen szerepelt.
 Az Ének az esőben sokat merített korábbi alkotásokból, ugyanakkor számos későbbi filmre volt hatással. Ezek közül Stanley Kubrick Mechanikus narancs (1971) című híres-hírhedt drámája a legszélsőségesebb, melyben a Malcolm McDowell játszotta főszereplő a musical címadó dalát dúdolgatja, miközben bandájának tagjaival brutálisan összever egy írót, és megerőszakolja annak feleségét. A Kubrick-film végefőcíme alatt a híres dal Gene Kelly előadásában hangzik el.
 Az esőben forgatott táncjelenet stúdióban készült. A nagy meleg és szárazság miatt kevés volt a víz, a jelenethez a stúdió tartályában lévő szinte összes vizet el kellett használni.
 Az egyik táncjelenetben a maffiózó nőjét alakító Cyd Charisse szipkából fújja a füstöt. Mivel soha életében nem dohányzott, rosszul lett a füsttől.
 A történet szerint Lina nem tudott énekelni, ezért Kathy szinkronizálta. A valóságban pontosan fordítva történt, Jean Hagen jól, Debbie Reynolds kevésbé jól tudott énekelni, ezért a történetben a Kathy által Lina helyett énekelt dalokat valójában Jean Hagen énekelte. Megjegyezendő hogy például a West Side Story filmben nem Natalie Wood, a My Fair Lady filmben részben nem Audrey Hepburn énekel, mindkettőjük helyett a vásznon nem ismert Marni Nixon hangja hallható.

 Bakik

A következő lista az Ének az esőben néhány feltűnő bakiját tartalmazza.

 Don egyik kaszkadőrmutatványa, hogy bemegy egy házba, ami rövidesen felrobban. Először azt látjuk, hogy a ház körüli fákat fújja a szél, ám még a robbanás bekövetkezte előtt a fák lombjának mozgása hirtelen megszűnik.
 Amikor Don beugrik Kathy kocsijába, a lány rendőrért kiált. Azt látjuk, hogy a jobb karjával int a rendőrnek. Rögtön ezután a kocsi megáll a járda mellett, de Kathy ekkor már a bal karjával jelez a rendőrnek.
 Amikor Dont Kathy kocsijában látjuk, a háttérben az 1950-es évekből származó gépkocsimodellek közlekednek, holott a film az 1920-as évek vége felé játszódik.
 Amikor Kathy a partyn előugrik a tortából, a többi táncoslánnyal együtt konfettit kezd szórni a közönségre. Miközben Donnal beszélget, vágásonként feltűnően változik a földön látható konfetti mennyisége.
 Amikor felveszik az első hangos jelenetet, Lina képtelen arra, hogy a bozótba rejtett mikrofonba beszéljen. Dexter, a rendező és a hangtechnikus egy fülkében tartózkodnak. A hangtechnikus megrázza a fejét, és azt mondja: "A mikrofonba kell beszélnie, mert különben nem tudom felvenni." Tisztán látható viszont, hogy a hangtechnikus szája nem mozog, miközben ezt mondja.
 Amikor Lockwood a címadó dalt énekli, és a jelenet vége felé megjelenik egy rendőr, Don mindkét kézzel fogja az esernyőjét, a következő képen viszont azt látható, hogy csak az egyikkel. A rendőr egy ovális alakú LAPD jelvényt visel, melyet 1940-ig nem használtak, a film viszont 1927-ben játszódik.
 A nightclub jelenetben Cyd Charisse átöleli Kellyt, ám testének helyzete egy ízben minden átmenet nélkül feltűnően megváltozik, ami ügyetlen vágásra utal. A jubileumi DVD-kiadás audiokommentárja szerint egyetlen közreműködő sem tudja, hogy azt a néhány képkockányi részt miért vágták ki a filmből.
 Ugyanaz a premierközönség látható a film elején a muskétásfilm vetítésén, mint a végén a Táncoló gavallér bemutatóján.
 Amikor a film végén Lina bejelenti, hogy az Ének az esőbent fogja elénekelni, a karmester megkérdezi, hogy milyen hangnemben. A függöny mögül Kathy azt súgja, hogy "Asz-dúr"-ban. Ezt Lina hangosan megismétli, a karmester pedig kiadja az utasítást, hogy "Ének az esőben »Asz-dúr«-ban", a zenekar viszont "E-dúr"-ban kezdi el játszani a dallamot.
 A filmben megjelenő újságfőcímek egyike a Varietyé, sőt Cosmo utalást is tesz a lapra. Az Ének az esőben 1927-ben játszódik, a Variety'' első száma viszont 1933-ban jelent meg.

Főszereplők
 Gene Kelly (Don Lockwood)
 Donald O'Connor (Cosmo Brown)
 Debbie Reynolds (Kathy Selden)
 Jean Hagen (Lina Lamont)
 Millard Mitchell (R. F. Simpson)
 Cyd Charisse (táncosnő)
 Douglas Fowley (Roscoe Dexter)
 Rita Moreno (Zelda Zanders)
 Madge Blake (Dora Bailey) (nem szerepel a stáblistán)

Fontosabb díjak és jelölések

Oscar-díj
 1953 jelölés Jean Hagen (legjobb női mellékszereplő)
 1953 jelölés Lennie Hayton (legjobb filmzene)

BAFTA-díj
 1953 jelölés Legjobb film

Golden Globe-díj
 1953 díj Donald O'Connor (legjobb színész – musical / vígjáték kategória)
 1953 jelölés Legjobb film (musical / vígjáték kategória)

Jegyzetek

További információk

 Angol nyelven a filmről
 Angol nyelvű esszé
 Francia nyelven a filmről
 Videó: Singin' in the Rain
 Videó: Make 'Em Laugh

1952 filmjei
Amerikai filmvígjátékok
Amerikai filmdrámák
Amerikai romantikus filmek
Amerikai zenés filmek
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures-filmek
MOKÉP-filmek
Az amerikai nemzeti filmregiszter filmjei


This is our new cash drawer, which is compatible with Epson or Star POS printers. The 3-position key lock allows to open the drawer with the keys.
1.This cash drawer can only be connected with POS printer directly. If you use laptop or other devices, a converter box is required.
2. Please keep the keys safely since the key is one for one. If it is lost or damaged, please contact us for a replacement, which will cost nearly 20-25 business days.


What's the piece that should be an essential in every woman's wardrobe? The blazer! This style staple gives that finishing touch to any outfit and (bonus points!) can be worn all year long.
Check out these three different styles of blazers and how they should fit.
When you're picking out a new blazer and are on the hunt for a fitted blazer look for one that's snug across the shoulders, but doesn't pull or restrict your arms. The tapered fit (at the natural waist) creates a streamlined, slimming effect.
The oversized blazer is inspired by feminine menswear and the key to pulling this style off is choosing one that is fitted through the shoulders. Make sure your boyfriend blazer is oversized throughout the bust, waist and longer in length. Keep your feminine figure by wearing an oversized blazer with snugly fitted bottoms(think skinny jeans or leggings).
This blazer is more playful but still offers the structure you need for the office. This style's hem should hit right at your waistline, or in the middle of your hipbone. If you're tall with longer arms, cuff the sleeves of your blazer to keep the style from appearing too short. This jacket is also a great way to create a defined waist on a slender frame.
Styling Tip: Go head-to-toe tonal with all neutral colors for a sleek feminine look when dressing up a blazer or wear it as daytime outerwear on the weekends for a polished look.
How do you style your blazers? Tell us in the comments below!


text:
Harriet Tubman among new faces on U.S. currency
by OW Staff Writer April 21, 2016 October 26, 2021
The front of the new $20 will feature the portrait of Harriet Tubman, whose life was dedicated to fighting for liberty, according to the U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob J. Lew. The reverse of the new $20 will display The White House and an image of President Andrew Jackson.
Harriet Tubman was born into slavery. After she escaped, she became a conductor on the Underground Railroad, helping slaves escape to freedom.
During the Civil War, she was active in the Union cause, serving as a nurse, a cook, and a scout gathering intelligence.
Looking back on her life, Harriet Tubman said, "I would fight for liberty so long as my strength lasted." After the war, she supported the cause of women's suffrage and was active in suffragist organizations. She died in 1913 and was buried with military honors.
The portrait of Harriet Tubman being used is from a photograph taken around 1887 in Boston.
The Tubman $20 is one of a number of changes to U.S. currency announced by the treastury department.
The others include a new $10, which will celebrate the history of the women's suffrage movement, and feature images of Lucretia Mott, Sojourner Truth, Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Alice Paul, alongside the Treasury building. The front of the new $10 will retain the portrait of Alexander Hamilton.
A new $5 will honor historic events that occurred at the Lincoln Memorial in service of our democracy, and will feature Martin Luther King Jr., Marian Anderson, and Eleanor Roosevelt. The front of the new $5 will retain the portrait of President Lincoln.
Harriet Tubman's portrait on U.S. $20 bill is coming
Harriet Tubman $20 bill on hold until President Trump leaves office

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
The Situation to Get Comic Book Treatment
By Author Free Britney at Apr 18, 2012 • Category Mike 'The Situation' Sorrentino
It's a bird! It's a plane! It's … The Situation.
According to Wizard World Inc., the Jersey Shore star has signed a publishing, development and appearance deal to create and publish a comic book based on Sitch.
"MPS Entertainment and I are thrilled about our new relationship with Wizard World. I grew up reading comic books and now I get a chance to star in my own. I can't wait for everyone to see what we are working on," said Sitch, a.k.a. Mike Sorrentino.
We know, we thought this was a joke at first too.
Added John Macaluso, the CEO of Wizard World:
"Wizard World is so excited to partner with one of pop culture's greatest stars. Mike will broaden our relationships with celebrities to new areas that leverage our access to the media, the fans, and especially our ability to bring comic book characters to life."
The series of comic books based on stories by Mike and his family will be written and drawn by some of the comic book industry's leading artists and writers.
You can even catch the soon-to-be illustrated family on tour, as they are slated to appear at several Wizard World conventions to promote their characters.
No word on whether Mike's super powers will entail the ability to survive with BAC over 0.5 or extreme tendencies to stir up drama where there is none.
[Photo: WENN.com]
Warren Buffett Reveals Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
Little Girl Learns She's Going to Be a Big Sister


Spacious and private! This renovated back of the block unit compromises of three generous bedrooms complete with built-in robes, spacious kitchen with gas cooking, dishwasher and loads of cupboard space, open planned lounge and dining area complete with a split system air conditioner and gas ducted heating throughout. Outside of the property you will find a private low maintenance courtyard and remote lock-up garage.


text:
The Best Things in Life Are Free…
Article Apr 5, 2007
Why do journalists focus so fervently on how much money the presidential candidates have rather than on the issues?
As any self-respecting "insider" is aware, along with April Fools and cherry blossoms—once every four years, at least—come the numbers for campaign cash raised by would-be presidents. In many ways, it's Washington insider politics at its most obscure—and infuriating. The numbers are all about creating and managing "expectations" for a quiescent media whose denizens tend to be suckers for anything that can be measured in units.
One would have a pretty difficult time coming up with why being good at raising cash from wealthy people is an important skill-set for a future president. Yet even raising this question is somehow considered bad manners during the campaign process.
Amazingly—to this observer anyway—reporters take little interest in how candidates inspire people just to give them money. It's not as if people, particularly industry lobbyists, do this for everyone. And yet as The Washington Post's Chris Cilizza argues "History has taught that where money comes from doesn't matter all that much." (I don't know what "history" Clizza has in mind, but it sure as hell wasn't in any course I studied getting my doctorate in the American kind.)
Yet this week's news stories reflect Cilizza's conventional wisdom. The Politico, the fledging political daily which seems to find itself amidst a journalistic contretemps every other week, leads off with "Money Figures Trouble For McCain, GOP," which looks at how the less-than-expected fundraising of John McCain and the about-what-was-expected fundraising of Hillary Clinton undercut the campaign narratives…that the media created for them months ago:
"The first-quarter presidential fundraising reports offer several insights into the race, but perhaps the most intriguing are: John McCain is faltering as the perceived Republican front-runner, and Hillary Rodham Clinton's campaign isn't the juggernaut that her Democratic opponents feared."
Even odder, or more difficult to decipher, are the reporters who write articles about fundraising numbers that include as explanation of why the fundraising numbers aren't important. Most of the articles, including by The Politico's Liz Sidoti's from The Washington Post, include a paragraph like this one:
"As history has shown, an early advantage doesn't always make for a party's nominee or a White House winner…Republican Phil Gramm of Texas brought in $8.7 million in 1995, while Democrat Al Gore of Tennessee collected $8.9 million in 1999. Gramm dropped out of the race before New Hampshire's 1996 primary, while Gore went on to win the 2000 Democratic nomination but lose the general election to George W. Bush in a contested outcome."
Actually, he won, but leave that aside for a moment. Other examples worth remembering are John Edwards' 2003 primary campaign, where he gathered more funding than any other democratic candidate, or Howard Dean's record-setting netroots-fueled $40 million failure in Iowa. But the fact that fundraising isn't the bellwether you'd expect it to be doesn't stop the stories from being published.
Walter Shapiro, writing at Salon, also noted hat the money isn't the only—or most—important thing for a presidential campaign:
"Despite the likely breathless tenor of dollar-derby coverage this week, money is not necessarily conclusive in presidential politics. In that sense, the race for the White House is like the other national pastime—baseball—where the New York Yankees have not been to the World Series since 2000, despite having a payroll 50 percent larger than that of their nearest rival, the Boston Red Sox. Mayer posits the 'Parkinson's Law of Campaigns,' which he defines as 'If you have money, you will spend it, whether it helps or not.'"
Writing in The L.A. Times, Michael Finnigan's puts his finger on one of the most significant problems here:
"It was plain to see one recent morning why Mike Huckabee would bemoan the primacy of fame and money in presidential politics: Not a single TV crew trekked to the Pottawattamie County veterans hall where the Republican White House contender was making his pitch to a roomful of Iowans eating doughnuts and sipping coffee from foam cups…[A] dearth of money and fame poses huge obstacles for Huckabee and others struggling to break into the top tier of Republicans running for president."
True, money and fame help a campaign. But remember Dean again—another small-state Governor who nobody knew, but whose message attracted notoriety and cash; ditto Jimmy Carter before him. Offering such candidates a fair hearing in the public sphere is part of the process—and it's the media's job to do that. Time magazine's National Political Correspondent, Karen Tumulty, offered up some welcome self-accountability on her blog and realized that maybe the issues do matter.
"In this very accelerated political season with its very large field of candidates, the media seem to be getting ahead of the voters. What's the hurry, 10 months before the first caucus, to winnow the field to a few candidates deemed viable—say, three at most from each party? With fewer moving parts, this very big story can assume a shape and a narrative that begins to look familiar and understandable. But in the process of writing that story, are we missing the real one?…still largely unaddressed, by the way, are any substantive differences that these candidates might have on actual issues."
Over at Columbia Journalism Review Daily, Edward Colby references Tumutly's blog and makes a case for real reporting:
"2008 is supposed to be the most 'wide open' presidential race Americans have seen in eighty years. This election is of crucial importance—the winner will have to deal with Iraq, Iran, North
Korea, massive environmental issues, a staggering deficit, etc. But the country will only get the kind of national debate it desperately needs if the political press resists the time-honored temptation to put the horserace above all else."
Hear hear! And by the way…what the heck ever happened to campaign finance reform? Remember, none of this fundraising would be necessary if Congress had been willing to pass that part of the McCain-Feingold legislation that would have required local stations to charge candidates their lowest rates for political commercials. Like every issue that deals with media companies flexing their power, that one got almost no coverage.
Former activist on this issue, Mark Schmitt, writes on TPMCafe that "the most fundamental problem to be addressed in American politics is the extent to which radical economic inequality reinforces and in turn is reinforced by inequality in the political system." Schmitt wants campaign finance reformers to focus on empowering the public to be a more effective voice in politics rather than harping on corruption and private money. There's a vigorous debate over there on the topic, but alas, it's one that doesn't seem to interest mainstream reporters.
As Mike Huckabee said in The L.A. Times, "If money and celebrity are the criteria to elect a president, then we can elect Paris Hilton."
Funny, and true…but what were his quarterly numbers?
Eric Alterman is a Senior Fellow of the Center for American Progress and the author of six books. His popular blog, "Altercation," has moved from MSNBC.com to Media Matters. The new URL is http://mediamatters.org/altercation/.
Research assistance: Tim Fernholz
Just One DOJ Scandal? Does the MSM have BAADD?
Campaign 2008: The "Story" vs. the Stories


Whether its running for an office, sharing their artistic side by designing RGS literature, taking part in community projects or singing and dancing in the talent show, there's a place for each girl to shine. Citizens learn about city, county and state government, as well as Americanism, leadership, professional development, public speaking, public safety and journalism. Learning how our democracy works by setting up a government complete with party structure and elections, Girls State Girls find and tune their voice at the week long event.


text:
const {process: processJest} = require('../../index.js')

test('bs-loader compiles ES modules to CommonJS for Jest', () => {
  const jsSource = processJest('', './fixtures/adder.re', __dirname)

  const fakeAdd = jest.fn().mockImplementation((x, y) => x + y)
  const fakeRequire = jest.fn().mockImplementation(() => ({
    add: fakeAdd,
  }))

  const oldRequire = require
  require = fakeRequire

  const evalSource = () => eval(jsSource)
  expect(evalSource).not.toThrow()
  expect(fakeRequire).toHaveBeenCalledWith('./add.js')
  expect(fakeAdd).toHaveBeenCalled()

  require = oldRequire
})

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


PLaques | Adafruit | Électronique - 3DSOMA Selected Creative Electronic Technology and 3D Printing Store.
Plaques Il y a 44 produits.
This is the 8-Channel PWM or Servo FeatherWing, you can add 8 x 12-bit PWM outputs to your Feather board.
Adafruit seesaw is a near-universal converter framework which allows you to add add and extend hardware support to any I2C-capable microcontroller or microcomputer.
Crickit (Creative Robotics & Interactive Construction Kit) it's an add-on to our popular Feather ecosystem that lets you #MakeRobotFriend using CircuitPython, MakeCode, or Arduino.
This is the Adafruit Feather 32u4 Bluefruit - our take on an 'all-in-one' Arduino-compatible + Bluetooth Low Energy with built in USB and battery charging. It's an Adafruit Feather 32u4 with a BTLE module, ready to rock!
It's an Adafruit Feather M0 with a BTLE module, ready to rock! We have other boards in the Feather family, check'em out here.
Feather is the new development board from Adafruit, and like its namesake it is thin, light, and lets you fly!


text:
Regulatory Reform (Scotland) Act 2014
There are outstanding changes not yet made by the legislation.gov.uk editorial team to Regulatory Reform (Scotland) Act 2014. Any changes that have already been made by the team appear in the content and are referenced with annotations.
Revised legislation carried on this site may not be fully up to date. Changes and effects are recorded by our editorial team in lists which can be found in the 'Changes to Legislation' area. Where those effects have yet to be applied to the text of the legislation by the editorial team they are also listed alongside the legislation in the affected provisions. Use the 'more' link to open the changes and effects relevant to the provision you are viewing.
View outstanding changes
Changes and effects yet to be applied to the whole Act associated Parts and Chapters:
Whole provisions yet to be inserted into this Act (including any effects on those provisions):
Sch. 2 para. 3(4) inserted by S.S.I. 2019/436 reg. 2(3)(a)(ii)
sch. 2 para. 22(1)(b)(2)-(4) substituted for Sch. 2 para. 22(1)(b)(2) by S.S.I. 2019/436 reg. 2(3)(b)
40(1)The Environmental Protection Act 1990 is amended as follows.S
(2)In section 33 (prohibition on unauthorised or harmful deposit, treatment or disposal etc. of waste), after subsection (10) add—
"(11)In subsection (4)(c) above, "enactment" includes an enactment comprised in, or in an instrument made under, an Act of the Scottish Parliament.".
(3)In section 57 (powers of the Scottish Ministers to require waste to be accepted, treated, disposed of or delivered), after subsection (7) insert—
"(7A)In subsection (6) above, "enactment" includes an enactment comprised in, or in an instrument made under, an Act of the Scottish Parliament.".
(4)In section 63 (waste other than controlled waste), after subsection (4) add—
"(5)In this section, "enactment" includes an enactment comprised in, or in an instrument made under, an Act of the Scottish Parliament.".
(5)In section 73 (appeals and other provisions relating to legal proceedings and civil liability), after subsection (9) add—
"(10)In subsection (2) above, "enactment" includes an enactment comprised in, or in an instrument made under, an Act of the Scottish Parliament.".
(6)In section 78X (supplementary provisions), after subsection (4) insert—
"(4A)In subsection (4)(f)(i) above, "enactment" includes an enactment comprised in, or in an instrument made under, an Act of the Scottish Parliament.".
(7)In section 79 (statutory nuisances and inspections therefor), after subsection (6A) insert—
"(6B)In this section, "enactment" includes an enactment comprised in, or in an instrument made under, an Act of the Scottish Parliament.".
(8)In section 98 (definitions for Part 6), after subsection (6), insert—
(9)In section 140 (power to prohibit or restrict the importation, use, supply or storage of injurious substances or articles), in subsection (11), before the definition of "the environment" insert—
""enactment" includes an enactment comprised in, or in an instrument made under, an Act of the Scottish Parliament;".
(10)In Schedule 4 (abandoned shopping and luggage trolleys), after paragraph 1(2) add—
"(3)In sub-paragraph (2)(d) above, "enactment" includes an enactment comprised in, or in an instrument made under, an Act of the Scottish Parliament.".
I1Sch. 3 para. 40 in force at 30.6.2014 by S.S.I. 2014/160, art. 2(1)(2), Sch.


text:
/*
 * The source code included in this files was separated from mbfilter.h
 * by Moriyoshi Koizumi <moriyoshi@php.net> on 20 Dec 2002. The file
 * mbfilter.h is included in this package .
 *
 */

#ifndef MBFL_FILTER_OUTPUT_H
#define MBFL_FILTER_OUTPUT_H

MBFLAPI extern int mbfl_filter_output_pipe(int c, void* data);
MBFLAPI extern int mbfl_filter_output_pipe_flush(void* data);
MBFLAPI extern int mbfl_filter_output_null(int c, void* data);

#endif /* MBFL_FILTER_OUTPUT_H */


text:
from __future__ import absolute_import
import math
from threading import Thread

from chaco.default_colormaps import jet
from traits.api import HasTraits, Bool, Float, Instance, Button
from traitsui.api import View, UItem, HGroup, VGroup

# ============= standard library imports ========================
import time
from numpy import zeros, ogrid

# ============= local library imports  ==========================
from pychron.graph.graph import Graph

# from pychron.lasers.pattern.dragonfly_pattern import dragonfly, DragonFlyPattern
from pychron.lasers.pattern.pattern_executor import CurrentPointOverlay
from pychron.mv.lumen_detector import LumenDetector

class LM:
    def __init__(self):
        self.stage_manager = SM()

class SM:
    pxpermm = 23

    def __init__(self):
        self.lumen_detector = LumenDetector()

    def update_axes(self):
        pass

    def moving(self, **kw):
        return False

    def find_target(self):
        return self.lumen_detector.find_target(self.frame)

    def find_best_target(self):
        return self.lumen_detector.find_best_target(self.frame)

class Controller:
    def linear_move(self, *args, **kw):
        pass

class SeekTester(HasTraits):
    cx = Float(1)
    cy = Float(1)
    width = Float(2)
    height = Float(2)
    radius = Float(0.5)
    src_graph = Instance(Graph)
    pos_graph = Instance(Graph)

    start_button = Button
    stop_button = Button
    pxpermm = Float(23)
    alive = Bool

    def _start(self):
        self.alive = True

        lm = LM()

        frm = self._frame(0, 0)
        lm.stage_manager.frame = frm

        t = Thread(target=self._dragon, args=(lm,))
        t.setDaemon(True)
        t.start()

        t = Thread(target=self._run, args=(lm,))
        t.setDaemon(True)
        t.start()

    def _stop(self):
        self.alive = False

    def _dragon(self, lm):
        pattern = DragonFlyPattern()
        controller = Controller()

        st = time.time()
        plot = self.src_graph.plots[1]
        dragonfly(st, pattern, lm, controller, plot, self._cp)

    def _run(self, lm):
        cnt = 0
        p = self.src_graph.plots[0]
        while self.alive:
            x, y = self._get_xy(cnt)
            frm = self._frame(x, y)
            p.data.set_data("imagedata", frm)
            lm.stage_manager.frame = frm
            time.sleep(0.25)
            cnt += 1

    def _get_xy(self, cnt):
        # x, y = self.cx * self.pxpermm, self.cy * self.pxpermm
        # x, y = 0, 0
        # x += cnt * 0.01
        # y += cnt * 0.01

        x = 0.3 * math.cos(math.radians((15 * cnt) % 360))
        y = 0.3 * math.sin(math.radians((15 * cnt) % 360))
        # print 'xy {},{}'.format(int(x * self.pxpermm), int(y * self.pxpermm))
        return x, y

    def _frame(self, ox, oy):
        cx, cy = self.width / 2.0, self.height / 2.0
        cx += ox
        cy += oy

        cx, cy = self.pxpermm * cx, self.pxpermm * cy
        # cx, cy = self.cx * self.pxpermm, self.cy * self.pxpermm
        src = zeros((int(self.width * self.pxpermm), int(self.height * self.pxpermm)))
        radius = int(self.radius * self.pxpermm)
        y, x = ogrid[-radius:radius, -radius:radius]
        index = x ** 2 + y ** 2 <= radius ** 2

        src[cy - radius : cy + radius, cx - radius : cx + radius][index] = 255
        return src

    def traits_view(self):
        src = HGroup(UItem("src_graph", style="custom"))
        bgrp = HGroup(UItem("start_button"), UItem("stop_button", enabled_when="alive"))
        pgrp = VGroup(UItem("pos_graph", style="custom"))
        v = View(
            VGroup(
                bgrp,
                src,
                # pgrp
            ),
            resizable=True,
        )
        return v

    def _start_button_fired(self):
        self._start()

    def _stop_button_fired(self):
        self._stop()

    def _src_graph_default(self):
        g = Graph()
        p = g.new_plot(padding_top=10)
        p.data.set_data(
            "imagedata", zeros((self.height * self.pxpermm, self.width * self.pxpermm))
        )
        p.img_plot("imagedata", colormap=jet)

        p = g.new_plot(padding_bottom=10)
        p.data.set_data(
            "imagedata", zeros((self.height * self.pxpermm, self.width * self.pxpermm))
        )
        p.img_plot("imagedata", colormap=jet)

        return g

    def _pos_graph_default(self):
        g = Graph()
        p = g.new_plot()
        s, p = g.new_series()
        cp = CurrentPointOverlay(component=s)
        s.overlays.append(cp)
        self._cp = cp
        return g

if __name__ == "__main__":
    s = SeekTester()
    s.configure_traits()
# ============= EOF =============================================


text:
Strawberries in season in New Jersey
@ChrisFHJordan
Strawberries, anyone?
Yup, they're in season here in Jersey, and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture has just issued a few tips on strawberry savoring. First, strawberries should not be washed and the caps should not be removed until you're ready to eat 'em. To do so will result in a mushy berry because of their high water content and the removal of the caps will release an enzyme that destroys the strawberry's vitamin C.
Look for strawberries that are plump and firm with a bright red color and natural shine and the caps should be fresh, green and intact. Consumers are advised to avoid strawberries with green or white color, or those that appear mushy, shriveled or leaky.
A note, strawberries do not ripen after harvest, so they should be immediately stored in the refrigerator and picked as close to consumption time as possible.
Visit at www.jerseyfresh.nj.gov for more information.
Alstede strawberry fest
On the topic of strawberries, the Alstede Farms Strawberry Harvest Festival starts 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and continues June 14 and 15 and June 21 and 22. What's in store? Scrumptious strawberry treats galore, they say, with homemade strawberry ice cream, strawberry shortcakes, strawberry shakes, strawberry lemonade slushies, strawberry sundaes, strawberry pie, strawberry rhubarb pie, strawberry fudge and more, along with pony, hay wagon and tractor train rides.
It's a good idea to call ahead before going. The Alstede strawberries were picked clean late last month, according to the farm's Facebook page, but with 15 acres growing, more should be ready soon.
Alstede Farms is located at 84 Route 513 in Chester. Call 908-879-7189 or visit alstedefarms.com for more information.
The 12th annual Mental Health Association of Morris County's Food for Thought Celebration is set for 6 p.m. Monday at the Birchwood Manor, 111 N. Jefferson Rd. in Whippany.
The theme of the evening is "Celebrating the Angels Among Us" and participating eateries include Chef Fredy's Table, aka Tim Schafer's Cuisine; Hibiscus; Poor Henry's Pub and Restaurant; Apple Spice Junction; Cullins Fresh Food Factory; Burrini's Olde World Market; Cinders Wood Fire Grill; Viking Bakery; Hot Rods BBQ and more.
Tickets for the VIP reception are $100 and tickets for the samplings are $65 in advance and $75 at the door. Visit www.mhamorris.org/News-Events/food-for-thought.html, call Barb Flynn at 973-334-3496, ext. 104 or e-mail events@mhamorris.org for tickets.
Mobile Cravers
Have a hankering for a visit from the White Castle Crave Mobile?
White Castle is holding a contest where you and 50 friends will party aboard the burger chain's Crave Mobile. To enter, "Cravers" can log into one of three social media sites, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. Then, you explain why you deserve to win a Crave Mobile party and attach a photo or video and finally, remember to use the hashtag #CraveMobile.
Entries will be judged on how compelling their argument is creatively (50 percent) and how original (30 percent) and quality of content, whether submitted through photo or video, is 20 percent, according to a White Castle press release.
The contest is ongoing through July 31 and the winner will be announced on Sept. 2. Visit www.WhiteCastle.com/promotions/CraveMobile for more details.
Chris Jordan: 732-643-4060; cjordan@app.com


text:
ACCEPTED

#### According to
Index Fungorum

#### Published in
in Baral & Krieglsteiner, Beih. Z. Mykol. 6: 64 (1985)

#### Original name
Lachnum claviculatum Velen.

### Remarks
null


text:
HomeAll ArticlesMerkel rejects Turkey's 'incomprehensible' comments amid Armenian genocide row
All ArticlesDiplomats CornerHotNews
Merkel rejects Turkey's 'incomprehensible' comments amid Armenian genocide row
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has rebuked Turkey over accusations made against German lawmakers of Turkish origin. Ankara hit out after Berlin passed a resolution declaring the 1915 Armenian massacre, "genocide."
Speaking during a joint news conference with Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev (pictured above, left) in Berlin on Tuesday, Chancellor Angela Merkel reiterated comments made by her spokesman Steffen Seibert on Monday, saying that lawmakers in Germany's lower house of parliament are "freely elected without exception."
"The accusations and statements which have been made by the Turkish side are incomprehensible," Merkel said.
"It was clear with the passing of the resolution that there is a difference of views between the majority of the Bundestag and the Turkish side," said Merkel, stressing that she would push for direct talks between Turkey and Armenia.
The chancellor's comments on Tuesday came just a day after German MPs with Turkish roots called on Merkel to take a stand against Ankara. Several of them received death threats for supporting the Armenian genocide resolution.
Green Party member Özcan Mutlu said that "as an MP, insults and threats have started to become normal."
"But this takes things to a new level," he said.
Turkey denies 'genocide'
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan first lashed out at the German parliament last week after the Bundestag – the lower house – passed a symbolic resolution which refers to the 1915 Armenian massacre under the Ottoman Empire as "genocide."
As the successor state to the Ottoman Empire, Turkey officially denies that the events amounted to genocide. Ankara officially claims that ethnic Armenians represented a fifth column backed by Russia during World War I, and that the mass deportation and accompanying deaths of some 1.5 million Armenians were neither premeditated nor intentional – a key requirement in the legal definition of genocide.
After recalling the Turkish ambassador from Berlin on Thursday, Erdogan suggested that passing the resolution was hypocritical of Germany.
"First you need to answer for the Holocaust, then for the murder of 100,000 people in Namibia," Erdogan said.
Erdogan demands 'blood tests'
The Turkish president went on to launch a personal attack against the 11 German MPs with Turkish roots who backed the resolution, accusing them of supporting "terrorism" by the banned Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK). Erdogan sparked yet more outrage by demanding that the 11 should take "blood tests" to see "what kind of Turks they are."
Ankara's mayor, Ibrahim Melih Gökcek, fueled the row further by later tweeting a collage of the 11 politicians, with the hashtag #TheTraitorsMustLoseTheirCitizenship, claiming that they had "stabbed us [Turkey] in the back."
The co-leader of the Greens Party and instigator of the resolution, Cem Özdemir, was among the 11 MPs targeted by Ankara. After receiving death threats from a number of Erdogan supporters, Özdemir has since been placed under police protection.
Green party co-leader Cem Özdemir has received death threats for instigating the Armenian genocide resolution
Merkel's diplomatic relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has come under fire on several occasions in recent months, with critics accusing her of ignoring Turkey's human rights record and worsening press freedom in order to win Ankara's cooperation in the implementation of the EU refugee deal.
Earlier on Tuesday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said the German government should make clear that it did not share parliament's view on the Armenian issue, adding that Turkey would have to suspend its deal with the EU to stem the flow of migrants to Europe if there was no agreement on granting visa-free travel to Turks.
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2018 Int'l Cultural Angel Arts Festival held in Los Angeles


He is a member of the Cameroon-Nigeria-United Nations joint commission in the resolution of the conflict between Cameroon and Nigeria on the peninsula of Bakassi. He was appointment as Minister Delegate to the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Justice and keeper of the seals of Cameroon in December 2004.
He resigned from Government in November 2011 and on 13 August 2012 and launched with other political figures the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC) political party in Yaoundé. His conviction is "a change of regime without violence".
Maurice Kamto was invested for the 2018 Presidential election by the Cameroon Renaissance Movement, MRC. The party was created on the 13th August 2012.
The National President of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement, MRC has elaborated a political programme anchored on five workshops with each have various facets.
The fist Workshop is in the political and institutional domains. Maurice Kamto says his priority is the settlement of the Anglophone crisis. He also plans to discuss on the form of the state. However, he proposes regions with a special status for the North West and South West that takes their historical heritage into consideration. He also gives importance to the fight against corruption and the reduction of the mandate of the President of the Republic to two terms. He also hopes to introduce two round elections.
The second focuses on Youth and Education. Maurice Kamto plans to overhaul the educational system in Cameroon if elected. He explains that he will ensure that every youth is trained for at least three months in a specific trade as a step in modernising the economy.
Economy and Production is the theme of the third workshop. He intends to make the economy to be vibrant by producing more. His target is to reach two digits growth rate before that end of his mandate if elected.
The fourth workshop covers social aspects. The Presidential candidate gives priority to health care. He says if elected as the third President of the Republic of Cameroon, by 2019 child birth through caesarean will be free of charge for every woman. He adds after three years, health care for common pathologies like malaria or Cholera will be free of charge nationwide for all Cameroonians. He also plans to make Cameroon a tourist destination to discover the country's diverse culture.
Sports constitute the core of the fifth workshop. The MRC presidential candidate says sports infrastructure will be constructed in all ten regions beginning from municipal level to ensure that sports practices begins from the base.


This post is sponsored by ZonderKidz. The opinions in this post are 100% mine. You can read my full disclosure policy here.
Reading with my kids before bed is one of my favorite activities of the day. We're always on the lookout for new books to enjoy together and I've partnered with ZonderKidz to share their latest release with you, I'm Going To Give You A Bear Hug!
I'm Going to Give You a Bear Hug!, written by bestselling author Caroline B. Cooney, is a playful and comforting bedtime book that imagines all the wonderful ways a child might give and receive a hug. The illustrations are beautiful, and if your child loves animals (mine both do!) this is such a fun one to cozy up with before bed.
You can grab a copy of I'm Going To Give You A Bear Hug! for your kiddos from Barnes and Noble. Be sure to follow ZonderKidz on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Author Caroline B. Cooney is on Facebook, too!
This giveaway is open to US residents ages 18+ only and will end at 11:59pm ET on July 14, 2017. Good luck!
I would love to snuggle up and read this book to my grandson.
I'd like to read it to my daughter.
I would love to snuggle up with my granddaughter and read her this book, I know she would love it!
I would like to snuggle up with my grandson while we enjoy this book.
I would snuggle with the Grand kids. They love having books read to them every night before bed and ask for at least 4 books. The Bear Hug book would be a great one to read to them.
I would love to cuddle up and read this to my nephew. This book looks super cute!
I would snuggle with my little buddy,my grand son!
I would snuggle with my grandchildren for story time before bed.
This looks so cute. I would love to snuggle up and read this book with our grandson!
I love snuggling up with my grandson and read a good book.
I would snuggle up with my Granddaughter and we would read this book together.
I'd like to read this to our grandchildren.
With my cousin! She would love it!
I would snuggle up with my daughter and read this book!
I would love to read this with my best friend's son!
I would love to read this book with my little nephew.
I'd love to read this book with my nieces, Zoe and Gia. Thanks.
I'd love to snuggle up with my daughter and my son to read this book! I think they'd both love it!
I'd like to read this to my cousin's young children.
I would love o read this with my kids.
I would snuggle up with my son James and read him this book! He is 3.
I would love to cuddle with my nephews and read this to them!!
I would like to read this to my son. What a wonderful book.
I would snuggle with my little Niece.
I would snuggle with my nephews! Thanks for the chance!


text:
Nestled amongst 500 acres of rolling Kentish parkland stands the striking Leeds Castle.
With a riveting history serving six of England's medieval queens, to its elaborate transformation into an elegant 20th-century retreat by Anglo-American heiress, Lady Baillie, Leeds Castle's rich heritage has secured its place as one of the most visited historic attractions in Britain.
As a guest, you are invited to uncover the stories of the Castle, and learn of its most sophisticated, yet enigmatic female owner. Lady Olive Baillie was an arbiter of taste, who transformed the Castle into one of the most desirable country houses of the 20th century. It was the weekend retreat; a centre of lavish hospitality for leading politicians, international royalty, film stars, and society's up and coming.
After experiencing a day in the life as Lady Baillie's house guest, take a step outdoors. Discover the spiralling maze, seasonal grounds and manicured gardens, admire the local wildlife, watch in awe as you experience a breathtaking Birds of Prey display, and enjoy attractions designed for all ages. Visitors to Leeds Castle can pay for a day and visit FREE all year round.
With so much to explore, extend your stay at the luxurious Battel Hall. Nestled in a secluded location on the edge of the Leeds Castle estate, Battel Hall has received a tasteful refurbishment making it wonderfully elegant yet comfortable. The manor house features five bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, three exquisite reception rooms combining classic English interiors with an eclectic modern twist, as well as an oak-panelled dining room with a roaring fireplace.
For those looking to be wined and dined, guests can add on a private chef who'll whip up a feast morning, noon and night. What's more, Battel Hall guests will also receive a private experience to meet Leeds Castle's majestic Birds of Prey.
Leeds Castle also boasts beautiful B&B rooms, unique glamping experiences like no other at Knight's Glamping, which features splendid striped pavilion tents with red wool lining and open fire pits with cast iron griddles, as well as quaint cottages set along the water's edge.
The Beatles Story, located at the Royal Albert Dock in Liverpool, is the world's largest permanent exhibition purely devoted to telling the story of the lives and times of The Beatles.
Be transported on an incredible immersive journey as we tell the story of how four young lads from Liverpool were propelled to the dizzy heights of fame and fortune from their humble childhood beginnings.
Replicas of the Casbah, Mathew Street, Abbey Road Studios and The Cavern authentically capture the early 60s, allowing you to experience the very places that helped make The Beatles the greatest band in the world.
Multimedia guides are included (in twelve different languages) and are packed with information, imagery and video interviews; beautifully narrated by John Lennon's sister, Julia Baird.
After your journey through our exhibition, sit back and enjoy one of our speciality coffees, featuring a Beatles face of your choice! Evoking the spirit of the 1960s with hints of Abbey Road and Revolver under our Cavern Club-style arches, our Beatles-themed Fab4 Café also has a selection of fantastic pastries, sweet treats, and sandwiches.
The Fab4 Store has one of the largest collections of official Beatles merchandise and souvenirs in the world. Choose from a comprehensive selection of gift ideas such as t-shirts, games, decorations, soft toys, stationary, music and much more!
Children of all ages are invited to experience The Beatles Story's Discovery Zone. Learn about The Beatles' lives, times, music and influential legacy using fun interactive resources.
Balfour Winery
Balfour Winery is one of England's most respected and renowned wineries, located on the picturesque Hush Heath Estate in Staplehurst, Kent. The Estate is home to some of England's most vibrant flora and fauna.
On arrival at the winery, collect a map from the Cellar Door and set out for a walk through part of the 400-acre Estate. Start off in Nanette's Vineyard before making your way through wildflower meadows, apple orchards and ancient oak woodlands. You will witness an abundance of wildlife, and if you are lucky, see the beautiful deer that roam on the Estate.
After your stroll, return to the winery for a delicious sharing platter of locally sourced charcuterie, vegetables and cheeses prepared by one of the talented chefs. Be sure to order a tasting of three or six of their exceptional wines to enjoy alongside the platter for the full day experience.
Alternatively, join an expert-led vineyard tour or wine tasting experience, from the Full Estate Tour and Tasting, to the Cellar Door Tasting Masterclass, there are a variety of options available.
You can also experience the Balfour Dining Club and enjoy a seasonal four-course dinner paired with Balfour Wines. Set in the beautiful tasting room, The View, these intimate dinners are a wonderful way to spend a Saturday evening with friends or family.
World of Wedgwood
World of Wedgwood is a world of luxury shopping, unique events, colourful dining, hands-on learning experiences, picturesque woodland and the V&A Wedgwood Collection.
In a world of endless experiences, you can shop the Wedgwood Store featuring an exquisite range of Wedgwood and Waterford Crystal, as well as the popular Factory Outlet featuring Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, Royal Albert and Waterford to name a few. 'Josiah and Co' opened its doors in 2021; a little shop with a big ambition to put local artisans on the map. The shop showcases the products of over 35 local makers from across Stoke on Trent and Staffordshire.
In addition to the wonderful shopping opportunities, you can be sure to dine in style here. The Wedgwood Tea Room offers an eclectic menu for brunch and lunch and an iconic afternoon tea. Across the way you'll find 'Lunar' by two Michelin Star Chef, Niall Keating, where you can enjoy a new modern fine-dining concept in a breathtaking setting. In 2022 they will welcome Sixtowns Gin Distillery who will offer distillery tours, mixology workshops and a stylish bar.
If that's not enough for you, join a guided tour of the iconic Wedgwood Factory. Let the knowledgeable tour guide talk you through the manufacturing process as you get up close and personal with skilled workers on a journey of how it's made. If you're more of a hands-on kind of learner, try your hand at throwing your very own pot in our Clay Studio where the host will help you use a potter's wheel! Our Decorating Studio opens on special holiday occasions, so you can paint a piece of stoneware yourself to take home on the same day.
You'll also find the iconic V&A Wedgwood Collection here; home to over 165,000 works of art, ceramics, manuscripts and photographs charting the factory's history, designs and ceramic production. Around 3,500 objects are on display in the purpose-built museum, showcasing the commercial and aesthetic history of Wedgwood ceramics from iconic jasperware and black basalt vases and ornaments, to bone china tea-sets and classic 20th-century designs.
Throughout the year they host some marvellous events, from unique dining opportunities for adults, to family friendly trails and immersive interactive experiences.
Set in the picturesque village of Barlaston, Staffordshire and surrounded by the Hem Heath Woods, so come rain or shine, the whimsical woodland and nature trail is fit for all ages to enjoy the great outdoors. Minutes from the canal, lake and Barlaston Downs, there is so much to do both inside and out.
Special packages available for groups of over 12 people.
National Trust Ickworth
Ickworth House, Parkland and Gardens is a unique place created from the vision of an eccentric man – Frederick Hervey, the Earl-Bishop; commissioned to be a magnificent showcase to house his priceless treasures within the ancient deer park and gardens of the Hervey family Country estate. For 200 years, the eccentric, and sometimes infamous, Hervey family added to the treasures inside and out, also creating the earliest Italianate garden in England.
Upstairs in the recently conserved Rotunda, you'll find the exquisite Huguenot Silver collection and can follow the family's history through outstanding portraits by Gainsborough, Hogarth and Reynolds. Downstairs, you'll find the 1930s servants' basement, restored using real stories and memories of former staff who kept this country estate running.
Outside, you'll find the beautiful Parkland with its own story to tell. The site of a medieval village, Historic Church and Walled Garden, the Earl-Bishop's monument and plenty of Ancient trees. There's a wealth of history just waiting to be discovered.
● Enjoy days out with family friendly activities throughout the year.
● Step back in time, open the drawers, and bang out a tune on the piano in our restored basement.
● Discover the enchanting stumpery in the Italianate garden.
● Wander at leisure across acres of parkland pleasure grounds and chart the changing seasonal landscape.
● Picnic anywhere you like, but our North Lawn offers fantastic views.
Image Copyright: ©National Trust Images taken by: James Dobson/Jim Woolf/Chris Lacey
Lucknam Park Experiences
Spa Days, Equestrian Experiences, Garden Tours and Afternoon Teas
This Palladian mansion set in 500 acres of parkland, just a short drive from the historic city of Bath, comprises 43 individually decorated bedrooms and suites. An additional six self-catering cottages are also available, able to accommodate six or eight guests.
Book in advance to guarantee a table at Restaurant Hywel Jones where the Michelin Starred dishes celebrate organic ingredients, local produce and garden-grown herbs resulting in eyes-closed appreciation (open for dinner Friday and Saturday). There's also the relaxed Brasserie – next to the spa so you can enjoy one then the other – with open kitchen, wood-fired oven, lounge area, bar and restaurant. Plus, traditional afternoon tea is served in the elegant Palladian mansion or on the terrace, weather permitting.
If feeling a little guilty after all this indulgence, head to ESPA at Lucknam Park for a health kick complete with eight treatment rooms, indoor-outdoor hydrotherapy pool, thermal cabins, ice bar and indoor and outdoor gym. Alternatively, you can take some exercise on the croquet lawn, tennis courts, five-a-side football pitch or at the Equestrian Centre home to 35 horses, a full-size arena for dressage and jumping, lunge arena, and cross-country course. Or you can always visit The Hideaway, a purpose-built chalet located a short walk from the hotel where all sorts of fun and activities are held, whatever the weather, for all the family.
Explore one of the oldest institutions in the world, and the last operating factory in the very heart of Paris, striking coins for more than 40 countries in the world, and producing metal art objects.
The Monnaie de Paris invites you to unlock the 1,150 years of history of the French Mint, through unique environments and programs.
Its museum is dedicated to metal, craftsmen savoir-faire, as well as the unique heritage collections of the Monnaie de Paris, revealing the art workshops where 150 artisans still practice with passion, as well as previously unseen treasures.
This sensory and interactive experience complement the temporary art exhibitions that take place in the historic reception rooms facing the Seine, and the 5 outdoor courtyards.
A rich offer of guided thematic tours and creative activities is available so you can choose your tailor-made way to explore this unique building, which is at the same time a modern factory and a royal palace.
You can also enjoy a gourmet meal in the three-star Guy Savoy restaurant, buy a piece of art in the boutique, or simply stroll through the courtyards to admire this masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, and take a well-deserved break at the Café Frappé.
© Monnaie de Paris | Younh-Ah KIM| Jean-Marc Martin|Bernard Touillon| and members of the public with permission
Salisbury Cathedral has Britain's tallest spire, the world's oldest working mechanical clock and best preserved original 1215 Magna Carta. Set within the UK's largest Cathedral Close (80-acre of rolling green lawns fringed by historic houses) it is one of the finest examples of Early English Gothic architecture, built in just 38 years between 1220 and 1258.
Explore Britain's largest cloisters with their fabulous views of the Spire then enter the heart of the cathedral and view its soaring arches and incredible artworks, including William Pye's 'Living Font'.
View the priceless Magna Carta which is UNESCO protected and sits within a permanent interactive exhibition in the exquisite Chapter House, which also boasts a magnificent 13th century carved frieze.
For an unforgettable experience book a Tower Tour to the base of the famous Spire, 225 feet above ground – explore hidden roof spaces and then admire the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside at the top.
Burg Eltz
Eltz Castle is different. It remained unscathed by wars. It has been owned and cared for by the same family from when it was built until today. Its architecture has no comparison and many of the original furnishings of the past eight centuries still remain in place. There is a Treasury and Armoury boasting world-class artworks in gold and silver. It towers high on a large rock, but is still in a valley. The Eltz Forest, a nature reserve of serene beauty, full of rare fauna and flora, surrounds it. It is in the center of an attractive hiking region with the award-winning dream hike "Eltz Castle Panorama" and other walks for any level of fitness.
We have been here for more than 850 years and are doing everything within our means to preserve our ancestral home. Experience the Middle Ages and nature in its purest form! We are proud of our fairy tale in stone and take pleasure in sharing it with you!
A guided tour by one of our expert guides begins every 10-15 minutes and takes 35 – 40 minutes. Foreign visitors who cannot attend a tour in their own language receive a free translation in Chinese, English, French, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish. For further information please enquire at the Ticket Sales Desk or in the castellan's office (upper courtyard).
We can offer guided tours in English, French and Dutch as well as special tours for kindergarten groups and school classes by prior arrangement.
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve
Home to the UK's original and authentic safari experiences, Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve offers a unique family adventure like no other!
Set in over 600 acres, you can jump on board a safari truck and journey through the South American, Asian and African Experiences to see amazing animals roaming freely, then explore on foot to see big cats, small cats, primates, gorillas and many more species.
Later, steel your nerves and venture into the exciting Dinosaur Forest where you'll discover the spine tingling Spinosaurus, terrifying T Rex, soaring Pterodactyls and more life size creatures from a forgotten time!
After a day of exploring the Reserve, why not treat yourself to an indulgent afternoon tea amidst Port Lympne mansion's 14 acres of tranquil landscaped gardens.
Llancaiach Fawr Manor
The building you see now was built in c1550 for Dafydd ap Richard. The Manor was designed to be easily defended during the turbulent reigns of Tudor kings and queens and is one of the finest examples of a semi-fortified manor in Wales today.
The original defensive design incorporated a single entrance, four-foot thick walls enclosing spiral stone staircases for access between floors and stout wooden doors. When these were securely closed they split the Manor in two and ensured that the inner east wing provided a safe and secure place of refuge during troubled times.
By the beginning of the Stuart dynasty the Prichard family had prospered and the house was extended in 1628 to demonstrate their status. The Grand Staircase now allowed easy access between floors and two of the rooms used by the family were panelled in oak.
When Civil War broke out between King and Parliament in 1642 Colonel Edward Prichard was appointed Commissioner of Array to the King, raising men and money for the Royalist cause in Glamorganshire.
By the middle of 1645 support was waning and King Charles I came on a rallying tour through south Wales and visited Llancaiach Fawr for lunch on 5th August. Unimpressed by the King's entreaties, shortly afterwards the Prichard's and many other Glamorgan gentry changed sides to support Parliament and Colonel Prichard subsequently defended Cardiff Castle against the Royalists.f
Visitors today step into the Manor House restored and furnished as it would have been in 1645. All the furnishings in the rooms are accurate reproductions of items from the time of the Prichard's in the 16th and 17th centuries and many of the originals can be found in the Museum of Welsh Life at St. Fagans.
Christ Church Picture Gallery
Christ Church is unique among Oxford and Cambridge colleges in that it possesses an important collection of Old Master paintings and drawings housed in a purpose-built gallery designed by architects Powell and Moya. The collection is strongest in Italian Renaissance and Baroque art, including paintings by Lippi, Tintoretto, Veronese, van Dyck and the Carracci. The internationally renowned collection of almost 2,000 Old Master drawings and over 3,000 prints holds important sheets by Leonardo, Dürer, Michelangelo, Raphael and Mantegna. Paper is highly susceptible to light therefore these works cannot be on permanent display but a large number are regularly on show. The gallery also has a diverse and vibrant exhibition programme; for that please check our website.
Henley via Stonor Circular
Russborough House & Parklands
Visit Russborough: Ireland's most exquisite Georgian House.
Filled with masterpieces from the Renaissance to the twentieth century, Russborough is Ireland's most beautiful Georgian house and boasts a fabulous setting to match. Set in 200 acres of rolling parkland, with plenty of walks and gardens to explore, Russborough enjoys a wonderful vista across Blessington Lakes to the Wicklow Mountains beyond.
A tour of the house with one of our expert local guides is an excellent way to discover the fine art, architecture and lavish interiors. Visitors will uncover Russborough's fascinating history from the 1740s onwards and how the house and collections merge beautifully as a rare survivor of exquisite taste and grandeur.
A different retail experience at Russborough is new for 2022. Stop and enjoy a delicious menu at our bright new Russborough Café opening out on to the terraced courtyard. Featuring the freshest ingredients, our dishes always reflect the pick of the seasons. The new Shop at Russborough sits on two floors, filled with lush textiles and soft furnishings inspired by Russborough's interiors. Along with beauty and wellbeing, jewellery, and a range of home products you will not find anywhere else, our new shop is a unique browsing experience all of its own.
Use the code DAYSOUT15 for a 15% DISCOUNT when booking a house tour either online or at our ticket desk on arrival.
Buscot Park
Buscot Park is the home of Lord Faringdon, who looks after the property on behalf of The National Trust. The house has an extraordinary collection of furniture and objets d'art including paintings by Rembrandt, Reynolds, Rubens and Murillo; as well as a room lined with 'The Legend of the Briar Rose' (inspired by the story of Sleeping Beauty) by the Pre-Raphaelite Sir Edward Burne-Jones. Outside there are floral walled gardens to explore and Pleasure Grounds with five avenues leading to areas such as a Swing Garden and the Water Garden designed by Harold Peto in 1904.
Lennoxlove House
Lennoxlove, situated just 20 miles from Edinburgh in the heart of East Lothian, is the ancestral home of the Duke of Hamilton. Visit Lennoxlove House and be greeted by one of our experienced guides, each of whom has expert knowledge of the history of the House. They will take you round the House and reveal the vast history, whilst explaining the stories about the artefacts that are held in the prestigious Hamilton collections. We look forward to welcoming you! Tours take place between Easter and the October. Please contact us for further information.
Castle Kennedy Gardens
Described as 'one of the showpieces of Galloway', Castle Kennedy Gardens is one of Scotland's most important historical landscaped gardens with its collection of Rhododendrons, Championship Trees and rare species. The 75 acres of sculptured landscapes and magnificent avenues are romantically situated on an isthmus around the ruins of Castle Kennedy and surrounded by the White and Black Lochs. From spectacular flowering plants and exotic trees to sculptured landforms, magnificent walks and popular bird hides, the Gardens are a perfect haven for relaxing and exploring in South West Scotland.
In 2011, Castle Kennedy Gardens became a Partner Garden of the Royal Horticultural Society. RHS Partner Gardens are chosen on a number of factors, but whether for their formal landscape, late season borders or woodland, all offer inspiration to keen gardeners through high standards of design and planting. The estate also offers 'Holiday Cottages' where guests enjoy unlimited access to Castle Kennedy Gardens and the surrounding Lochinch Castle Heritage Estate, a traditional sporting and agricultural estate. Fishing, country sports, wild-life viewing, walking trails and Land Rover tours are just a few of the range of activities available for guests to enjoy. Steeped in history, Lochinch Castle and Castle Kennedy Gardens are part of Stair Estates and the private home of the Earl and Countess of Stair.
The Château de Chenonceau, first property of the crown and then a royal residence, is an outstanding landmark with a rich, unusual history. Throughout history the Château has been protected by a host of extraordinary women; Diane de Poitiers, Queen Catherine de Medici and Louise Dupin to name a few, preserving its unique architecture from conflicts and wars and turning it into a haven of peace and serenity. It is now the most frequently-visited private French Château. It houses an outstanding collection of paintings by old masters such as Murillo, Le Tintoret, Nicolas Poussin, Le Corrège, Rubens, Le Primatice and Van Loo, as well as an extremely rare selection of 16th century Flanders tapestries. There's plenty for guests of all ages to enjoy in the vast gardens as well; impressive floral displays, a 16th century farmyard, a maze and a play area for children. This emblematic Château has always attracted talent and inspired great artists, and its guests today come from all over the world to discover the quality of its reception, thanks to a free visit or audio guide with iPod video, available in 11 languages. x
Arbury Hall
Arbury Hall has been the seat of the Newdegate family for over 400 years and is the ancestral home of Viscount and Viscountess Daventry. This Tudor/Elizabethan House was Gothicised by Sir Roger Newdegate in the 18th century and is regarded as the "Gothic Gem" of the Midlands. The principal rooms stand as a most breathtaking and complete example of early Gothic Revival architecture and provide a most unique and fascinating venue for corporate entertaining. Exclusive use of this historic hall, it's gardens and parkland is offered to clients.
Hever Castle and Gardens
Discover 700 years of history at the romantic, double moated 13th-century castle, once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I. Explore 125 acres of formal and natural landscape in these magnificent quintessential English gardens. In 1903 William Waldorf Astor, the American millionaire, bought the castle and created the glorious gardens. He filled the castle with wonderful treasures including fine paintings, tapestries and furniture which visitors can enjoy today. The spectacular Edwardian gardens include topiary, Italian and Tudor gardens, walled Rose Garden, grottoes and fountains and a 110-metre herbaceous border. There is a 38-acre lake with traditional rowing boats, and a yew and water maze (see website for dates), and The Miniature Model Houses collection is another must-see as is the Garden Exhibition that tells the history of the gardens. There are licensed self-service restaurants serving hot and cold food throughout the day, or visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics. Special events run throughout the year (see website for details). Conference, banqueting, wedding, and other exclusive-use facilities are available in the private residence of the castle. The estate also boasts a 27-hole golf course.
(Please note there is partial wheelchair access – please contact the castle for further information.)
Downes
Downes House is a Palladian Mansion dating originally from 1692. As the former home of General Sir Redvers Buller, the house contains a large number of items relating to his millitary campaigns.
Nether Winchendon House
Nether Winchendon House is one of the most romantic of the ancient historic houses in England and listed Grade I, set in seven acres of tranquil Gardens and surrounded by 600 acres of Parkland, on the Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire border. With curling Tudor chimneys, Nether Winchendon House is crenellated and partially encased in stucco and from its Medieval origins, this extraordinary house has evolved into the fabulous and exciting mixture of styles it is today.
The garden is a founder member of the National Gardens Scheme (1927). It was laid out in its present form in the late 1950's when, what were at the time, special trees and shrubs were planted. The lawns slope south of the house down to the River Thame and have great charm linking the garden to the water meadows across the river.
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A COMMITMENT to quality service backed up by genuine guarantees has been a winning combination for successful local firm Tayside Windows.
As owner Dean Anderson explains; "we supply and fit quality windows with quality internal finishing's and are committed to bringing an honest service to our clients. As an independent company, we aim to provide the best quality after sales service".
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We only use experienced fitters that are time served joiners and they are all employees as opposed to self employed fitters who are fully qualified to fit new windows and doors to your home. The firm prides itself on going out of its way to find good fitters, who customers can trust to carry out their work in a professional manner.
At Tayside Windows, you can rest assured that there is no hard sell. The company has built up a loyal customer base through client recommendations, with no need to rely on telesales or door to door salesmen. A representative from Tayside Windows will only visit you home in order to offer advice on replacement windows and doors at your request.
If you are thinking about transforming the look of your home with new windows or perhaps some patio doors, why not contact Tayside Windows Showroom on 01382 772855. The showroom is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Thursday and from 9am to 4pm on Fridays and special viewing, such as in the evenings or on Sundays, can also be arranged.


He is trying again to attract a major tech giant to the region, after a joint proposal from Buffalo-Rochester failed to make the cut of Amazon's top 20 choices announced Thursday. Just in time, however, was Apple's announcement that it is conducting a nationwide search for a location to build a new campus.
Lorigo now has his eye on that prize, as Amazon was probably a long shot anyway.
"Amazon clearly was looking for a large metropolitan area. If you look at the 20 cities that are left, that was definitely what they were looking for," he says. "Apple's a smaller-scale project than Amazon was, but still a game gamer for any area where they decide to go and it seems to fit Western New York a little bit better than the scope of what was going on with Amazon."
Lorigo says he has invited Apple CEO Tim Cook to tour Western New York and has reached out to other elected and regional economic development officials to put together a proposal. If it makes sense to submit a joint proposal with Rochester again, he says Buffalo will.
The West Seneca Republican says New York's high taxes may have scared away Amazon, even though New York City is still in the running, as is Toronto. Amazon's $5 billion HQ2 would have brought 50,000 new high-tech jobs to the region.
Apple's new campus would create 20,000 jobs over the next five years.
"They definitely seem to have longevity. People either are Apple fans or they're not and they ones that are are certainly rabid about it," the West Seneca Republican says. "You know, Apple's not going anywhere. If they do decide to build a second headquarters and bring these jobs to a place like Western New York, they'd be here for decades to come and would have a huge impact on our local economy."
It's official: the Buffalo-Rochester Metro Corridor has submitted its bid for online commerce and cloud computing giant Amazon's planned second North American headquarters, known as HQ2. This region is pitching its lower cost of living, workforce and readiness to move the company into the region. But it's up against fierce competition including three other bids from within New York State.
Government and economic leaders in two Western New York cities believe that by joining in a strategic collaboration, they are raising the region's chances for attracting one of the most coveted economic development projects in recent memory, Amazon's proposed second North American headquarters.