The Olympic Flame Took Off For The Paris Olympics

Olympic flame for Olympic Games Paris 2024 lit in spectacular ceremony

Friday, July, 26. – Sunday, Aug, 11. 2024.

To-day marks 100 days until the Paris Olympics.  During a traditional ceremony organised by the Hellenic Olympic Committee, the Olympic flame was brought to life at the archaeological site of Olympia – the cradle of the World Games in Greece.

The ancient tradition sight was covered into a hiccup cloudy skies preventing the ritual of lighting the torch by way of the Sun. Therefore, was in use of a metal mirrow. A ceremony took place on th spot which was meant to provide a link between the modern event and the original Greek event.  Now after heads to Athens where it will be handed over to the Paris Olympic officials. Ten thousand torch bearers will carry the flame across twelve thousand kilometers to its final destination … Paris Olympia.

On April, 27. the Olympic torch’s journey across Greece will conclude in the port of Piraeus, where it will board the Belem bound for Marseille. This majestic vessel, listed as a historic monument, is France’s oldest three-masted schooner. It was launched in 1896, the year of the first modern Olympic Games.

Aerial view of the Belem

The modern games was recreated in the 19th century. The Games were held in the honor of Zeus who is probably known of all the Greek gods as the ancient king of the Olympia the king of ancient King Gods. The Olympia Game repeated every four years which was considered very important religion and sporting event. This year kicking off 19 days of competition with a series of 329 events.

This year not quite clear yet how the Olympic flame will reach Paris, dispite in the past people did alsort of remarkable gimmicks … beamed the flame down by saltelite in 1976 …  also the flame longed up to Mt. Everest … one of the most sightful waywas to carry the flame was underwater.  In 2024 we will see.

Update by Aggie Reiter

Van Gogh’s “Japonisme” Exhibition on Screen Hungary

van gogh és Japan exhibition on Screen

The British visual arts documentary series exhibition on screen is now back from this year’s March.

Van Gogh’s “japonisme”  is truely to be explored … at one of the Art Cinemas … and to not to be missed.

Directed by David Bickerstaff  Van Gogh & Japan takes the viewers from the critically acclaimed exhibition at the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam, to the beauty of Provence and the enigma of Japan.  Viewers may see Van Gogh’s personal letters and written accounts by friends and contemporaries this extraordinary and moving film reveals the fascinating story of Van Gogh’s little-known deep connection to Japanese art … even though he had never traveled to Japan. The film explores how Japanese society has developed an affinity for Van Gogh’s work in engagement with the culture.

The fim gives an overview featuring from contemporary artists, including calligrapher Tomoko Kawao and performance artist Tatsumi Orimoto, Van Gogh & Japan provides revealing and modern perspectives on the rich, symbiotic relationship between Van Gogh and Japan – 2019.

On screen along with the filming crew will be travelling the viewers not only to France and the Netherlands, but also to Japan to further investigate the remarkable legacy that influenced Van Gogh so much and made him the artist we know today.

The 90 minutes long film is ecommended for 12+.

The documentary is brought to the viewers by Pannonia Entertainment Ltd.

Riport by Aggie Reiter

Lajos Portisch … One of the Legendary Figures of the Hungarian Chess Game

OIP

Celebrating his 87th birthday.

Was born in Zalaegerszeg on April, 4. 1937.  He became known as an international grandmaster and achieved many outstanding results during his active career.  One of the strongest non-Soviet chess players from the early 1960s to the late 1980s also one of the top ten chess players in the world in the 1970s and 1980s. At the age of fifteen he played in the Hungarian league for the first time. In 1955, he took fourth place at the World Youth Championships, in which Boris Spassky, later adult world champion, became the winner. Facts about him: Nine-time Hungarian champion, also Lajos was able to stand on the top step of the podium nine times in the Hungarian chess championship. He participated in 20 Chess Olympiads for the Hungarian National Team, where he won 1 gold, 3 silver and 2 bronze medals.  In the World Championship Candidates Tournaments he reached the doubles quarterfinals seven times.  In the European Championships won silver and bronze medals. In 2004, he was awarded the title of Athlete of the Nation.

One of the strongest non-Soviet chess players from the early 1960s to the late 1980s.

In 2023 he was elected to the ranks of the members of the World Chess Hall of Fame. During his long and successful career, Lajos Portisch was among the best chess players in the world and was one of the dominant figures in the chess world.

Update by Aggie Reiter

Happy 79th Birthday Eric Clapton!

Eric Clapton

🎸🎂🎶

Eric Clapton, the legendary English guitarist and singer, recently marked his 79th birthday.

His remarkable career has spanned decades, leaving an indelible impact on the world of music. Clapton’s soulful blues guitar a.k.a. “slowhand” playing and emotive vocals have resonated with fans across the globe.

Born on March 30, 1945, in Ripley, Surrey, England, Clapton’s musical journey began early. His talent and passion led him to become a pioneering figure in rock and blues. Over the years, he has collaborated with other iconic musicians, leaving an enduring legacy.

Whether it’s his timeless hits like “Layla,” “Tears in Heaven,” or his electrifying live performances, Eric Clapton continues to captivate audiences. His influence extends far beyond his native England, touching hearts everywhere.

Cannot forget to mention before calling Eric Clapton the blues big master on the road  in 1966 when he joined the Yardbirds group and enjoyed his first real hit, on which Clapton still play the song “For Your Love”. In April 1965, Clapton joined John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers. Then in 1966 came the unforgettable Cream Era, one of the first so-called supergroup, i.e. a band whose members already had a pretty deep musical background and were successful solo or band musicians. The other members were Jack Bruce on bass & vocals and Ginger Baker on drums. Silly “Q” who doesn’t know or have heard their classic songs … White Room … Crossroad Blues and the superb (favorite of mine) Badge.

The Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker the superb musicians are pushing rhythm-and-blues music together up above, may they R.I.P.

Even at the age of 79, he is not saying goodbye to the stage, nor has he lost his momentum. He is one of a kind … the most talented guitars and song written of the 20th Century. Eric Clapton enchanted  previously the audience in Budapest with his awesome music  such as … Layle … Tears in Heaven …  (Bob Marley’s)  I Shot the Seriff  and so on … cannot be missed at his concert, therefore the expectations of rock and blues fans are all the time fulfilled. Whereever Eric Clapton steps on stage sure his music fans fill the house.

Update by Aggie Reiter

Biographical Drama – The Life of Amy Winehouse – April, 11. Budapest Cinema.

Amy Winehouse

Below sharing Wikipedia free encyclopedia … “Back to Black is a 2024 biographical drama film based on the life of British singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse, played by Marisa Abela. Directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson and written by Matt Greenhalgh, the film also stars Jack O’ConnellEddie Marsan, and Lesley Manville.Following the death of Winehouse in 2011, several filmmakers attempted to create biopic projects but none of them progressed. In 2018, Winehouse’s estate announced they had signed a deal for a film about her life and career. By July 2022, StudioCanal moved forward with production, and filming took place in London from January to April 2023. The film was released theatrically by StudioCanal in Australia on 11 April 2024, and was released in the United Kingdom on 12 April 2024.”

Amy Winehouse was undoubtedly one of the most important artists and singers of our time. Unfortunetaly, her life has been stolen away by her addictions.

She has sold more than 30 million records worldwide and is still listened to by 18 million people/ month almost 13 years after her death. The film is about the inspiration and inspiration of her second and final studio album, Back to Black, and strives to show the flesh-and-blood woman behind this glittering but tragic phenomenon.

About the casting … Must highlight Marisa Abela’s performance which is by far the strongest aspect of the film, and not just because she bears an eerie resemblance to the six-time Grammy Award-winning singer. The body language, manicures and distinctive facial mimicry are also right.  Yes thr makeup  artists also deserve credit – although the energy of the actress, radiating warmth and empathy, reflects Amy’s lovable, positive side. Marisa also sings on Back to Black, and not just anyhow!

The role and responsibility of Blake Fielder-Civil, Winehouse’s ex-husband and antagonist of the film, is a hotly discussed topic of debate regarding the singer’s tragic fate. He was the one  to introduce her to the world of hard drugs despite she had alreadyearlier  struggled with alcohol problems, bulimia, and emotional instability before they met. Blake may be antipathetic in the film. H was th one who inspired the album and Winehouse mentions his name several times in her lyrics. The film well portrays the relationship between two toxic, emotionally damaged and drug-addicted young people.

If you’re an Amy Winehouse fan and would like to watch the movie and listen to her songs, don’t miss it and spend 2 hours with Amy.

The viewer’s emotions are  absolutely worked by the film, that’s for sure!

Riport by Aggie Reiter

39th Telekom Vivicittá Spring Half Marathon @ Budapest 2024.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Telekom Vivicittá is the first and most popular spring running festival in Hungary.

Next Weekend …  go on and put power in every step you make!

Saturday – April, 20 – Sunday April, 21.

DISCOVER BUDAPEST BY RUNNING … The Vivicitta Spring Half Marathon (Budapest Spring Half Marathon) held a media gathering  in themoring hours at the Tribe Budapest Stadium Hotel Skybar informing the shorting coming running 2-day long event. On Sunday may choose between a half marathon (21 km), a Vivicitta (10 km) while on Saturday the focus is on shorter distances (for example Midicitta 7 km) for the less experienced runners. The distance is essentially a sightseeing run. Running across several bridges over the Danube, admire the view of Buda Castle from the River Danube bank, the panorama of Pest and the building of Europe’s third largest parliament.

Overall a true running atmosphere awaiting thousands of people to be apart in one of the Telekom Vivicittá races every year. In 2023, over the course of a weekend, nearly 20,000 individuals participated in various distances. Participants not only enjoy a sense of community but also serve a good cause. On Saturday, the festival races kick off, marking the largest springtime recreational sports event. On Sunday, the participants in the half marathon start first, followed by the 10-kilometer race in the afternoon. The  race is met with increasing anticipation year-after-year, captivating not only Hungary’s but also Europe’s running community, with participants from abroad nearly 100 countries. The event is also a colorful running celebration where everyone can find challenges and activities to suit their preferences.

“For Budapest, in addition to the honorable role of host, this event is also important,
because 2 urban Telekom Vivicittá debuted last year within the framework of the Budapest 150 program series The tour is popular again this year: the 8 and 15 km city walk is expected to take more than 500
its participant touches Buda between Budapest world-famous panorama and buildings, Óbuda and Pest”
emphasized Anett Bősz – Deputy Mayor for Human Resources.

According to the main organizer of the event and the Budapest Sports Office (BSI) – Árpád Kocsis – Head of Office told that based on preliminary entries, this year the number of participants promises to be extremely high. Q.: “The most popular leisure sport event of the spring is Vivicitta with over 20,000 participants over the two days. Entries have been received from nearly 1000 Hungarian settlements, about 2000 foreign runners from 100 countries  arriving to the running event. This number is already well close to pre-COVID international attendee figures. Last year’s 15 and 8 km City Tours are popular again, the number of pre-entrants has reached 500, and the expected nice weather may encourage many more people to start running, even for whom running is not their favorite form of exercise.”

Running enthusiasts will welcome spring, Budapest and the racing season with joint movement again this year, and this time their results will also be on the front page.

On Saturday, April, 20. the 39th will start the Telekom Vivicittá @ Margaret Island. 

also pointed out: “The  BSI is one of the largest event organizers in the country, and has been running it for 39 years, the most prestigious recreational sports events. One hundred thousand people this year  expected. This year, too, we would like to recognize the performance of the entrants in a personalized person made of their run with a gift accompanied by the acceptance of a declaration of consent.”

This year aswell,  would like to recognize the performance of the entrants in a personalized person made of their run, which they may receive upon acceptance of a declaration of consent. All distances based on images taken during running and extracted athlete data by AI a generated article will be created about them on the website of National Sport, which you can share with anyone if you wish.” said by Zoltán Pereszlényi, Magyar Telekom’s commercial Deputy CEO.

As in previous years, Suhanj! Foundation support the Suhanj! Fitness will continue to allow the joy of movement together for people with disabilities.

Overall was gathered some highlights to this In an impressive setting with a wonderful environment, and amidst a true running atmosphere, thousands of people choose one of the Telekom Vivicittá races every year. In 2023, over the course of a weekend, nearly 20,000 individuals participated in various distances. Participants not only enjoy a sense of community but also serve a good cause. On Saturday, the festival races kick off, marking the largest springtime recreational sports event. On Sunday, the participants in the half marathon start first, followed by the 10-kilometer race in the afternoon. The event is met with increasing anticipation year- after-year, captivating not only Hungary’s but also Europe’s running community, with participants from nearly 100 countries.

Budapest, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and rich architectural and historical heritage, presents a distinctive blend of diverse cultural influences, exquisite cuisine, and a broad range of leisure activities. The majestic Danube River divides the city into two parts: Buda, characterized by its verdant hills, serene and elegant neighborhoods, and a romantic atmosphere; and Pest, a flat and expansive area now transformed into a dynamic cultural hub, while still reflecting the city’s industrial and working-class roots. A visit to Budapest would be incomplete without exploring its iconic landmarks, including the Castle District, Matthias Church, the Chain Bridge, the Jewish Quarter, St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Parliament, Heroes’ Square, and  in the meantime whilst here in Budapest  enjoy after the marathon the historic thermal  spas on the Buda and the Pest side of the Capital. 

Diversity stands out as Budapest’s most prominent feature, evident in its geography, culture, and the globally acclaimed Hungarian cuisine. Positioned at the crossroads of overlapping cultural regions and power interests, Budapest reflects influences from Roman, Ottoman Turkish, Slavic, Jewish, and Viennese cultures.

The registration is open for the Vivicitta Spring Half Marathon 2024. https://entry.runinbudapest.com/registration

Double Anniversary – 50 Years My My Waterloo & 25 Years of Mama Mia!

 

67739b6c-c207-11ed-bbcf-0210609a3fe2

Photo by Katie Byrne

A half-century ago on Saturday (April 6), the Swedish quartet triumphed at the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest with the peppy love song My my, at Waterloo, Napoleon did surrender.

50 years since ‘Waterloo’ took the world by storm and the world. Many fell in love with Björn, Benny, Agnetha, and Anni-Frid. The group was formed in Stockholm in 1972.

Eurovision Song Contest in the English coastal town of Brighton, where on April, 1. 1974 competition was held. The Eurovision victory turned ABBA into a pop juggernaut, by far the most successful band to win the pan-continental music contest. This April 6th marks the 50th anniversary of ABBA’s legendary Eurovision victory with “Waterloo.” That’s right, folks, half a century has passed since those blue suede platform boots stomped their way into our hearts.

Mamma Mia!, composed by Ulvaeus and Andersson and based on their songs, originally opened in London’s West End on April 6, 1999. Written by Catherine Johnson and directed by Phyllida Lloyd.

producer Judy Craymer, who first met Andersson in the 80s and convinced said that a musical could be made from their songs. So Judy Craymer who originated the idea of MAMMA MIA! and, in 1996, formed Littlestar Services Limited with Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus and Richard East to produce the stage musical in London. The musical was adapted into a film in 2008, which starred Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth and Julie Walters. Since then, she has produced 50 productions of MAMMA MIA! in 16 languages around the world. It centers around a mother and daughter with three possible fathers.

According to its creators, over 70 million people have seen productions of the show in more than 450 cities around the world, staged in 16 different languages. It has also led to two blockbuster movies.

With its 25-year run, Mamma Mia! becomes the third-longest running musical in West End history, after Les Miserables, which made its debut in 1985 and The Phantom Of The Opera, launched a year later, in 1986 (REUTERS) Many states around the world are celebrating its 25th anniversary along a spectacular ABBA Weekend all around the Globe.

This anniversary isn’t just a trip down memory lane; it’s a testament to the enduring power of ABBA’s music. From the infectious melody of “Waterloo” to the timeless balladry of “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” their songs continue to fill dance floors and karaoke nights across generations. Time to celebrate where ever you are … so crank up the volume.

Update Aggie Reiter

Flying Darts … IV. Hungarian Darts Trophy Budapest

Darts_in_a_dartboard

Watch out … several world darts stars will be coming be here for 3 days  this Fall in  Budapest!

Perhaps one or two people have not yet come across the origin of this exciting game that has millions of not just  fans but dart shooters around the World. To follow these superb dart players  personally below may be interest. (Did you know? … Australia  first used  …came up with “Dart”  as slang for a cigarette.)

The Hungarian stop of the European Tour will take place between September 20 and 22 at Budapest’s MVM Dome. The world’s most important organization in the sport, the PDC, modified the rules, thanks to which it was decided that the top 16 in the world ranking will also have the opportunity to start. Previously, the TOP 16 field of the Pro Tour ranking could stand in front of the board. However, the selection on Saturday the 21st is still based on the latter ranking.

According to the rule change, on Friday, September 20, in addition to the Hungarian competitors, we can already support world stars. Due to the favorable ticket prices on the day, a full house and a traditionally excellent atmosphere are almost guaranteed even on the first night of the Budapest stop of the European Tour, according to the announcement of the organizers.  Don’t forget to make  your  personal180 board!

The III. The Hungarian Darts Trophy closed on September 22-24, 2023 with a record number of spectators: a total of 19,000 people bought tickets to the MVM Dome. It was a breakthrough in the three-day competition that Major Nándor was the Hungarian who advanced after Friday. In the final, Luke Humphries, who later won the world championship title and threw nine arrows in Budapest, lost to Dave Chisnall.

Last year, classics such as Peter Wright – Scotland, Gerwyn Price – Welsh, Michael van Gerwen  -The Netherlands, and Michael Smith – UK, among others, were in the Hungarian capital.

Recommentation by Aggie Reiter

Classic Indiana Jones Trilogy Are Back @ The Movie Theaters in Budapest

indiana jones

Harrison Ford’s iconic adventure will be at the upcoming cinema series in April for three weeks.

Relive the classic Indy adventures of the 80s, directed by Steven Spielberg, on the cinema screen. The film series already gained minimal relevance in the spring, as John Williams’ 54th Oscar nomination was brought to him by the piece now produced under the auspices of Disney (and he also received a Grammy for it), and this is a superb parallel with the old trilogy, as the composer also received for all three of its parts the nomination.

The 1981 Raiders of the Lost Ark will be available in theaters for one week from April 18; the 1984, but chronologically earlier, The Temple of Doom can be found from April 25, while the 1989 trilogy finale, The Last Crusader, can be found on the program from May 2 to May 8. This time, the event is limited to the multiplexes of the Pannónia Cinema Network.

With today’s eyes, a more interesting pop culture face is everywhere in smaller, but rather larger roles. During the opening scene in the history of cinema, may see the still very young Alfred Molina (or the later Doctor Octopus), in the middle episode as Little One one, Ke Huy Quan, who has exploded again in the last two years and experienced a second flourish, who won an Oscar last year, is there as little one ( who as a child actor was even seen as a member of the Treasure Hunters), and finally, in the third play, the unforgettable performance of Sean Connery as Indiana’s father.

Here are a couple of cinemas screening the pictures on the a/m dates: Budapest Cinema MOM https://cinemamom.hu/, Budapest Lurdy Cinema https://lurdymozi.hu/, Budapest GoBuda Cinema https://gobudamozi.hu/, Budapest Pole Cinema https://poluscentermozi.hu/ Tickets on the spot at the cinemas.

Pop into a seat and fly back to the future … live through the pictures screening from the ’80s

Update by Aggie Reiter

Calling Out … “Value & Quality” … Grand Prize Tender … Competition 2024.

IMG_7952-001

On March, 19. a press gathering was held at the Benczúr House Cultural Center @ Budapest, whereas were present representatives as following: DIAMOND organizer office Bt., ExVA Examiner and Certifier Ltd., FANNIZERO Ltd., Hajnal Meat Plant Ltd., INNOVA Northern Great Plain Regional Development and Innovation Agency Nonprofit Ltd., LEGRAND Magyarország Electricity Networks Zrt., NUMBER IT Service Provider and Educational Center Ltd. as the Tendering Council of the tender system. The main patron of the Value and Quality Grand Prize Contest was Dr. János Latorcai – Deputy Speaker of the Parliament. The professional supporter of the application system is the Ministry of Agriculture. The main supporter is the State Secretariat for National Policy of the Prime Minister’s Office, and the professional partner is the National Food Chain Safety Office.

“In the constantly changing economic it is important to recognize quality products and services. It is particularly important to recognize and prioritize quality products and services. Our Tender System tries to offer opportunities to all businesses that continue to see the value in high quality in addition to their business resilience and readiness for the future” was said by Károlyné Ildikó Kiss – founder of the Value and Quality Grand Prize Competition. The awards of the Value and Quality Grand Prix “the certified symbol of quality” – will be presented on September 12, during the Economy Festival, in the Főrendi House Hall (House of Commons) of the Parliament.

This year’s Value and Quality Grand Prize tender was announced in more than 100 topics of 45 main groups in the field of economy and culture. Applications for the competition for the best products and services can be submitted from the entire Carpathian region said by Károlyné Ildikó Kiss.

Last year 47 works of 40 applicants earned the use of the Value and Quality Grand Prize Certification Trademark, which represented an 18 percent increase compared to the previous year. Currently, more than 1,000 products or product groups and services of almost 200 partner companies.

This year awaiting for tender applications … Deadline date: May 30, 2024,

All natural and legal persons, partnerships without legal personality, individual entrepreneurs or creative communities can apply for the tender.

Riport and snaps by Aggie Reiter