Olympics BMX cycling

BMX - short for Bicycle Motocross - is still a very new Olympic event, making its debut at the 2008 Olympics games in Beijing.


The BMX competition joins road, track, and mountain bike events to make bike racing the most exciting collection of sports in the Summer Olympic Games.


BMX is a new Olympic event, so there's not yet a huge "Hall of Champions" to look back on. But certainly there were some memorable performances in Beijing that got things started. The BMX athletes are a rare breed -- with the explosive legs of a racer, the strength and flexibility of an acrobat, and the steel nerves of a daredevil, you'll see athleticism and artistry here like nowhere else.

London BMX cycling

Races are held over a short, tight, twisting circuit with multiple turns and jumps. Eight riders compete in each race. They start from a manually-operated gate and hurtle down a steep slope. First to the finish line wins. The challenge is not to fall off as you whizz around the challenging course.

Reahttp://bicycling.about.com/od/olympiccycling/a/olympic_bmx.htm

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/olympics/8313763/London-2012-Olympics-BMX-cycling-guide.html

The olimpic flame is coming

97 days 're left before one of the greatest events of the whole world 's life 'll start. Consequently, as I try to keep pace with the latest events happening in the world, I feel like posting so facts about Olympic games 2012.

 

1)     There are over two dozen distinct competitions in the 2012 Summer Olympics.

2)     Olympic mascot Wenlock (right) and Paralympic mascot Mandeville (left) are the official mascots of the 2012 London Summer Olympics that are getting lots of attention worldwide.

3)     7.7 million Olympic Games tickets will be available for London 2012.

4)     2000 newts will be relocated from the Olympic Park to the Waterworks Nature Reserve.

5)     800,000 people are expected to use public transport to travel to the Games on the busiest day. This is more than the entire population of Leeds.

6)     53m will be the height of the Olympic Stadion. This is three metres taller than Nelson's Column.

7)     205 Nations will be competing at the London 2012 Games.

8)     4,000 trees will be planted on the Olympic Park and Olympic Village sites. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth planted the first tree in October 2009 on the Olympic Stadium site.

9)     90% of material that will be reclaimed from demolition within the Olympic park can be reused or recycled.

10)Approximately 260,000 loaves of bread are expected to be consumed at the London 2012 Olympic Games

To learn more interesting facts about London Olympics 2012 visit following links:

http://carlien-van-de-kreeke.suite101.com/london-2012-olympic-games---facts-a219061
http://www.chiff.com/a/olympics-trivia.htm

http://www.london2012.com/

Herbert George Wells

Biography

Sometimes called the father of modern science fiction, H.G. Wells was born on September 21, 1866 in Bromley, Kent, England. His father, a professional cricket player and shopkeeper, and his mother, a former lady's maid, raised Wells with the idea that he would find a place in the work world that they were accustomed. He aspired to a different place in society.

When he was thirteen, he left school to become a draper's apprentice, a job his family expected would be proper for a boy of his station. The work repelled him, however. He worked briefly in a drugstore, returned for a stint as a draper's assistant, then finally found a job as a teacher's assistant in a grammar school. Education and academia suited him well. In 1884 he entered college with a scholarship to study biology. He was able to study under one of the great biology teachers of the time, Thomas Henry Huxley, and Wells graduated in 1888.

The writings of Jules Verne undoubtably influenced Wells, and he wrote his first novel, The Time Machine, partly in response to this new kind of literature that Verne produced. The story appeared in various forms in magazines from 1888 to 1894 and was released in its current form in 1895. The book was successful, and Wells did not need to teach or worry about money from that time on.

Wells' early novels continued in the science fiction mode of The Time Machine. The Island of Dr. Moreau (1896), The Invisible Man (1897) and The War Between the Worlds (1898) cemented his position within the genre. For many readers, these early novels are the extent of Wells' writing. He's the "time machine guy" or the "martian guy." Wells, however, wrote short stories, mainstream fiction and non-fiction essays his entire life, most of them espousing in some form or another his views on humanity, society and the direction he saw the world going. Some of these works were also science fictional in nature.

More biographical information along with numerous other links and resources about H.G. Wells can be found at http://www.bath.ac.uk/~lisjpo/wellsian.html

A complete bibliography can be found at http://www.bath.ac.uk/~lisjpo/biblio.htm and at http://members.tripod.com/~gwillick/biblio/HGWellsbib.html

The A&E website contains information on how to order their video biography of H.G. Wells at http://www.schoolroom.com/videos/v13531.htm

The H.G Wells Society web page can be found at http://www.rdg.ac.uk/~lhsjamse/wells/wells.htm.  Information about The Wellsian the official newsletter of the H.G. Wells Society can be found at http://www.rdg.ac.uk/~lhsjamse/wells/wellsian.htm

Information about Wells and copyrights can be found at http://www.rdg.ac.uk/~lhsjamse/wells/hgwcopy.htm

An H.G. Wells discussion group exists at http://www.rdg.ac.uk/~lhsjamse/wells/hgwcopy.htm

An article about H.G. Wells, entitled "H.G. Wells, the Poe of Science Fiction" can be found at http://www.nucleus.com/~dreamwvr/hg_wells.htm

Letter to our British friend

Dear friend!
 This year we have started United kingdom country studies subject and we want to learn more about British system of education. We were surprised to learn that 90% of schools in Britain are now comprehensive. Our Ukrainian system of education is different. Ukrainian students have no possibility to choose what subjects to study. At 10th form we have approximately 20 different subjects. We have 12-point scale of educational evaluation.
We’re studying at Specialist school number 15 with foreign language base.We think that we’re lucky to be studying at 15 school. It gives us diverse possibilities of self- development, provides us with the latest facilities in the field of education. It is necessary to say that our teachers are highly qualified, experienced professionals, helping us to cope with the avalanche of knowledge.
How many lessons do you have per day? Do you have home tasks? Do you like studying?
Sincerely yours, Tanya and Marina

About Irish Newspapers

Here you can explore the most complete list of national and local newspapers from Ireland:
http://www.newspapers24.com/irish-newspapers/index.html Get multiple perspectives on Ireland news, current events, politics and business; read articles and commentaries about Ireland sports, travel, real estate, culture and entertainment; search obituaries and classifieds ads; as well as browse Irish newspapers archives. In addition to the list of newspapers, you can find also Ireland maps, pictures and brief information about Ireland. The most popular newspapers are:

• The Irish Independent
• The Irish Times

Here are the links of these newspapers, where you can find information on diferent items, such as breaking news, sport, business, health and so on:
http://www.independent.ie/
http://www.irishtimes.com/

 

 

Christmas Celebrations Around the World

Today we have started our research on Christmas Traditions. We have never thought that such activity would be so interesting and breath-taking. To be sincere, all information was great, but for us personally the traditions of Germany and Mexico were the most exciting. For instance, a unique aspect of the German Christmas decorations (kids can not take part in the beautification of the Christmas tree) and the legend of the Aztecs (Mexico’s ancient worship of the sun) became amazing discoveries for us. Besides, the fact that in France a law was passed decreeing that all letters written to Santa would responded to with a postcard attracted our attention.

To learn more follow the next links:                                                          http://www.theholidayspot.com/christmas/worldxmas/germany.htm

http://french.about.com/cs/culture/a/christmas.htm
http://www.mexconnect.com/mex_/feature/xmasindex.html

William Blake

 

Owing to lessons of English literature we have a possibility to learn about the most salient English writers and acquaint with their works. On learning William Blake I’ve become fascinated by his creativity. Consequently, I’m eager to post some information about this artist in order to shed some light on this idiosyncratic man.

Poet, painter, engraver and mystic William Blake was born in London, on November 28,1757. His parents, James and Catherine, ran a hosiery shop and were political radicals and religious Dissenters. William attended school only long enough to learn reading and writing, leaving at the age of ten, and was otherwise educated at home by his mother. He began writing poetry when he was twelve and was apprenticed to a London engraver at the age of fourteen. His poetry and visual art are inextricably linked.

In 1784, he set up a print shop, but within a few years the business floundered and for the rest of his life Blake eked out a living as an engraver and illustrator. His wife, Catharine, whom he married in 1782, remained faithful and diligent and she helped him to print the illuminated poetry for which he is remembered today.

In 1789, he published his Songs of Innocence, the gentlest of his lyrics, but the collection was followed by Songs of Experience, containing a profound expression of adult corruption and repression. His long list of works shows relentless energy and drive. As one of the most complex writers known, it is impossible to summarize his career - he was a combination of extremes. He’s great, You mat ensure this by your own, when reading his poems or gazing his paintings.

Belfast

The capital and the largest city of Northern Ireland is Belfast. It’s a real heart of industry, as well as the arts, higher education and business. It’s a legal center, and is the economic engine of the whole Northern Ireland.

   The city of Belfast has a population of 267,500 and lies in the middle of the Belfast urban area. Belfast  traces its roots to a settlement to a French Huguenots. During the 18Th and 19th centuries, Belfast was swept up in the Industrial Revolution and has become a centre for the Irish linen industry, tobacco production, rope-making and shipbuilding. Belfast has been the capital of Northern Ireland since its establishment in 1921.

    The city of Belfast has the Latin motto "Pro tanto quid retribuamus which means  "In return for so much, what shall we give back?". The precise origins and meanings of the symbols contained on the Coat of Arms are unknown. However, images such as the bell, the seahorse, the ship and the chained wolf were all used by 17th century Belfast merchants on their signs and coinage. 
The seahorse, which is used twice, shows the maritime importance of Belfast, as does the ship at the base of the shield. 
    The name ‘Belfast’ also originates from the Gaelic ‘Beal Feirste’, which means ‘mouth of the river’. 

for friendly citizens, gracious parks, splendid Victorian architecture, and trendy nightlife.
To learn more:
http://www.bc.edu/offices/international/programs/progsemesteryear/europerussia/belfastderry.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belfast
http://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/cityhall/coatofarms.asp

Сultural Travel Program

We’re eager to offer you some ideas of great spending time in NI, and we have elaborated some tours.

The best time to visit northern Ireland is autumn all hallows eve is a good reason to be become a fugitive from cities dust and fever and to find your peaceful solitude in NI. To feel Halloween spirit, visit creaking stately homes of ghosts You can’t but visit Belfast. Belfast is teeming with a multitude of stylish bars, gourmet restaurants, trendy clubs and some of the best shopping in the UK. Visitors can enjoy traditional Irish music in a local pub or dance the night away to the latest vibes - the choice is theirs! the city is compact and easy to get around, whether by car or on foot. Another alternative is The Mourne Mountains. The Mourne Mountains and its surrounding area provide every outdoor activity from hill walking, rock climbing, and mountain boarding to horse riding, fishing and golf.  The perfect holiday location for the outdoor enthusiast. You can also visit The Walled City of Derry. Londonderry, also known as Derry, is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland and one of the finest examples of Walled Cities in Europe. Few places in these islands can offer such a compelling and unique experience for the visitor as the Walled City of Derry - its setting on the steep hills overlooking the wide sweep of the River Foyle, its distinctive architecture and its famous walls all provide enormous appeal.

Want to visit these places? More information about airports here:http://www.discovernorthernireland.com/Airports-and-Ferry-Operators-Links--A2175

Letter to our friend in Great Britain

    Dear friend!

    We’re the group of explores of Northern Ireland. Our creative team is Marina Volokhova, Tanya Melnyk and Lena Shevchuk. We were born in cozy Ukrainian town Rivne approximately 16 years ago. Now we’re studying at school #15, which is a specialist school to study foreign languages. This year we have started learning UK Country Study subject, and our task is to discover amazing part of GB – Northern Ireland.

   Next information will give you general idea about who we are.

   Tanya is interested in Ukrainian embroidery. Сonsequently she has reached high results in participating in international embroidery competition. She’s fond of traveling all over the world. And it’s her dream to visit all the European countries.

   Lena is fond of modern dancing. In her free time she takes lessons of hip-hop. Lena is interested in photography. Every summer she travels in different countries of Europe and takes photos of sightseeing. For information Lena has already published her photos in local newspapers.

  Marina is talented artist and musician. She is fond of modern art. Marina is a kind of active person: she takes part in various Olympiads, concerts and exhibitions. Her dream is to paint astounding nature of  Northern Ireland.

 All of us are fond of traveling. We enjoy to travel inside of our beautiful country.There are many places of interest in it.Take for instance Rivne region. In September our class visited Peresopnitsya,where we were informed about first Ukrainian book. Moreover we discovered many exiting facts about history,culture of our country.That was the best trip in our life. 

   

Northern Ireland’s History Time-line

Northern Ireland’s locals have been witness to invasions, battles, famines and a lot more. In this section you will learn some of Ireland’s more important historic events and how to help shape the country as we see it today. As historic events in Ireland took place they influenced the Irish culture  in many different ways so sit back and enjoy this section of Irish history.

Ancient Northern Ireland

• 3200BC – Irish passage tombs such as Newgrange are built
• 700BC – The Iron Age Period and the Celts in Ireland

Medieval period in Northern Ireland

• 432 – St Patrick arrives in Ireland
• 1155 – English King Henry II is given authority over Ireland by Pope Adrian
• 1297 – Irish Parliament is founded

16th Century in Northern Ireland

• 1567 – The Battle of Farsetmore
• 1580 – The Siege of Smerwick
• 1594 –   The begining of the nine years war

17th Century Northern Ireland

• 1642 – The Irish Confederate Wars
• 1662 – Act of Settlement 1662 is passed by Irish parliment
• 1695 – The introduction of Anti-Catholic Penal Laws

18th Century Northern Ireland

• 1760 – French invaders attack Carrickfergus looting the castle
• 1791 – The Society of United Irishmen is founded
• 1798 – Irish Rebellion of 1798

19th Century Northern Ireland

• 1845 – Ireland suffers from a major famine.
• 1858 – The Irish Republican Brotherhood is formed
• 1867 – The Fenian Rising
• 1879 – The Irish National Land League is founded

20th Century Northern History

• 1914 – The First World War begins
• 1916 – The Easter Rising Sunday
• 1919 – The Irish War of Independence
• 1920 – Government of Ireland Act 1920 introduced. Ireland becomes partitioned with the creation of Northern Ireland
• 1939 – Word War II begins
• 1967 – The Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association (NICRA) is founded
• 1999 – Nuala O’Loan becomes the first Police Ombudsman in Northern Ireland

21st Century History of Northern Ireland

• 2007 – Ian Paisley is elected First Minister of the Northern Ireland Assembly
• 2007- Martin McGuinness becomes deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland

More information on: http://www.yourirish.com/history/

Climate of Northern Ireland

The climate of Ireland can be summed up as being mild, moist and changeable with abundant rainfall and a lack of temperature extremes. In general the weather is similar to the rest of the UK, but Northern Ireland tends to have less sunshine and more rain. Extremes of temperature are rare but conditions can be changeable.The weather in Northern Ireland is traditionally changeable. The temperature usually stays above freezing, so there is seldom snow or ice, but at any time of year it is advisable to be prepared for rain. Summer months sometimes see prolonged periods of sunshine.

To get more information:

http://www.dgsgardening.btinternet.co.uk/climate.htm

Rivers and lakes

Here are some facts about the lakes and rivers of Northen Ireland .In the heart of Northern Ireland you will find Lough Neagh, the largest lake in Ireland & Britain. Lough Neagh captivates visitors with its tranquil atmosphere, un-spoilt scenery, secluded bays and skyward views. Lough Neagh is a haven for wildlife with many viewpoints around the shoreline.The Lower Bann River helps form the longest waterway in Northern Ireland, offering visitors a tranquil atmosphere and unspoilt scenery.This is the perfect location for water based recreation; from fishing to waterskiing and cruising to canoeing, this magnificent river has something to offer everyone.
More information here:
http://www.loughneagh.com/loughneagh.html
http://www.riverbannireland.com/

Binevenagh

Binevenagh rises about 1200  feet. Binevenagh  encompasses a dramatic coastal landscape that forms the backdrop to one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys. Binevenagh is a prime location for hill walking and fishing; the lake on the summit is stocked with rainbow and brown trout and can be accessed by car along a forest road.
To get more information visit the following links:

• http://www.northcoastni.com/attractions/93/binevenagh-and-benbradagh-mountains/
• http://www.geographical.co.uk/Magazine/UK_Landscapes/Binevenagh_-_Nov_10.html
• http://www.libraryireland.com/Atlas/Londonderry.php

Slemish Mountain

Slemish Mountain, the legendary first known Irish home of Saint Patrick, is  located in Co. Antrim.  The mountain rises about 1500 feet (437 metres) above the surrounding plain, and it is actually the central core of an extinct volcano. Slemish Mountain is open year-round, and on Saint Patrick's Day (17th March) large crowds hike to the top of the mountain as a pilgrimage.

You become better informed about Slemish Mountain on:

http://www.discovernorthernireland.com/Slemish-Mountain-Ballymena-P1727

  

Slieve Donard

Slieve Donard is the highest peak (2,796 feet [852 metres]). It is near the coast at the northeastern end of the Mournes. Slieve Donard is named after Saint Donard, known in Irish as Domhanghairt or Domhanghart. At the summit of Slieve Donard there is a cairn and a small stone tower, which was built as a shelter.This tower is part of the Mourne Wall.

More information on the following links:

• http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/548750/Slieve-Donard
• http://www.mourne-mountains.com/mournes/mountains/slieve-donard/

The Mourne Mountains

The melody and words 'Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea' of the popular song have made the Mournes the best-known mountains in Notnern Ireland. An area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Mourne Mountains are the most picturesque.The Mourne Mountains and its surrounding area provide every outdoor activity. Tourists can trek up to the Mourne Wall, a man-made, dry-stone wall built between 1904 and 1922.

Get more information on:

• http://www.discovernorthernireland.com/mournes/
• http://www.destination360.com/europe/ireland/mourne-mountains

Cavehill Mountain

Cave Hill's famous profile is visible from almost everywhere in Belfast and its famous Napoleon's Nose and McArt's Fort have become ingrained into the social and political history of the city. It is one of the most celebrated landmarks in the hills. All of Belfast can be seen from its peak. Cavehill rises to almost 370 metres (1200 ft) above sea level.

To get more information on this item visit the following links: 

• http://www.belfasthills.org/content/cave-hill-country-park
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cavehill

Divis and the Black Mountain

Divis and the Black Mountain rest in the heart of the Belfast Hills and provide a big backdrop to the city's skyline. Divis stands at 478 metres (1,562ft) and Black Mountain at 390 metres (1,275ft) making Divis the highest point in the Belfast Hills.The mountains are a mosaic of grassland, heathland bog and are home to a host of wildlife and archaeological remains.

More information you can get here:

http://www.belfasthills.org/content/divis-and-black-mountain

Flag of Northern Ireland

I may notice that two flags are used in Northern Ireland  official one and unique one. Moreover You can heed another flag - the Irish Tricolour.

  The official one is widely known as Union Jack. The innate flag is called "Ulster Banner" or "Red Hand Flag". Why? For the reason it represents Ulster coat of arms on the background of  a red cross(St. George's Cross). This flag is known as Government of Northern Ireland Flag. The crown above hands symbolize being loyalist to the Queen.

 To get more information on this item visit the following links:

• http://www.northern-ireland-travel.com/northern-ireland-flag.html
• • http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/1355428/Northern-Ireland-flag-of