The Olympic Games will soon commence in London and here at Chateau Avalon, are getting excited! There is nothing quite like cheering on our teams as we watch these tremendous athletes compete for worldwide honors. As we look forward to the games, we invite our fans and friends alike to test your knowledge with these Summer Olympics Trivia Questions. (Written by Drs. Barre and Barry Wright for Savannah Morning News - click on the link for the complete list of trivia questions.)
- What is the Olympic motto? (“Citius, Aliticus, Fortius” which translates from Latin as Faster, Higher, Stronger)
- The Olympic flag features five interlocking rings. What do the rings symbolize? (The five inhabited continents of the world)
- Why are the colors of the Olympic flag’s rings blue, black, red, yellow, and green? (Because the flag of every country participating in the Olympics includes at least one of these 5 colors)
- Name the nine sports featured in the first Modern Olympic Games (athletics, cycling, fencing, gymnastics, weightlifting, wrestling, swimming, tennis and shooting)
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- The Summer and Winter Olympic Games were customarily held in the same year until when? (1992)
- How many U.S. athletes have competed in both the Summer and the Winter Games? (17)
- Why did the U.S. boycott the 1980 Summer Olympics held in Moscow? (The U.S. was protesting the Soviet war in Afghanistan)
- How many times in the past has London hosted the Olympics? (Twice, once in 1908 and once in 1948)
- What will be a first for the 2012 London Olympics? (All participating nations will have at least one female athlete competing)
- About how many athletes will compete in London? (10,500 individuals representing more than 205 nations)
- What is the only Olympic sport in which men and women compete against each other? (Equestrian)
- Of 28 modern Olympic sports, in what category has the U.S. never won a medal? (Badminton)
- Boxing was an event at the Games in ancient Greece. In what year and where did Cassius Clay (Mohammed Ali) win the gold medal? (1960 in Rome)
- Which sport of the Summer Games has the highest number of athlete participating? (Track and field events with 2,000 competitors)
- What is the maximum number of competitors each country can enter in the Archery event? (Six total with three of each gender)
- Based on ticket sales, for which event is the overall demand the greatest? (Men’s 100-meter final)
- Based on ticket sales, which event is most popular with London government officials? (Beach volleyball)
- In what order do countries traditionally enter Olympic Stadium at the Games’ opening ceremonies’ Parade of Nations? (Greece, in honor of being the home of the ancient Olympics, enters first and the host nation enters last)
- In what sport for the 2012 Olympics was the U.S. the only country to qualify the maximum number of participants? (Fencing. We qualified the maximum 16 fencers)
- In what sport for the 2012 Olympics will Saudi Arabia’s first female Olympian participate? (Equestrian. However, Dalma Rushi Malhas’s jumper has reportedly sustained an injury to his foreleg and that may prevent her competing)
- Kim Rhode, at age 16, was the youngest member of the U.S. 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympic team when she won her first gold medal. If she medals in the London 2012 Games, she will be the first American to medal in five straight Olympics. What’s her sport? (Shooting. She is a shotgun specialist)
- The size, shape, weight and center of gravity of javelins are standardized in international competition. How long is the javelin men throw? (8’6”-8”10”)
- How many overall medals did U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps win in the Athens and Beijing Games? (16 total of which were 14 gold and two bronze)
- What country has won the most gold medals in men’s field hockey? (India) In women’s field hockey? (The Netherlands)
- What four events of the Summer Olympics does NBC Sports say Americans most want to watch on TV? (Track and field, swimming, gymnastics and beach volleyball)
- What city will host the 2016 Summer Olympic Games? (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and it will the first time the Olympics have been held in South America)
Enjoy these questions and share them with your friends, family and co-workers -- you are sure to impress with your vast wealth of Olympic knowledge!
P.S. To celebrate the Olympic Games, look for a "Gold Medal Special" from us very soon! Make sure to leave a comment and tell us what your favorite Olympic event is!
It's HOT outside and here at Chateau Avalon, many of us plan to spend the weekend inside enjoying the wonderful A/C! If that's your plan, why not cuddle up with the one you love and enjoy a few classic romance films? While some movies on our list are "classic" in terms of old, others have managed to secure the title and classification of "best of..." simply based on the story line alone. From the moment they were released in theatres, both audiences and critics instantly knew that these movies would stand the test of time. Check out our list, (adapted from www.moviephone.com), and see if your favorites are included. Make sure to leave a comment and tell us where your favorite ranked. If it's not on our list, tell us what it is!
10. 'Ghost' (1990) While Whoopi Goldberg's dead-people-seeing psychic borders on the wacky (she did win an Oscar, go figure), this drama has one of the best love scenes of the decade. Messy clay. 'Unchained Melody.' Demi Moore and that perfect teardrop. Priceless.
9. 'Dr. Zhivago' (1965)
Who knew snow could be so sexy? Surgeon-poet Yuri (Omar Sharif) is married, but he can't resist the idealistic and soulful Lara (Julie Christie). It's sappy, it's sad, and the theme song will drive you insane, but these two beautiful adulterers are impossible not to root for.
8. 'Annie Hall' (1977)
Audiences fell hard for this bittersweet love story between Alvy (a comically neurotic Woody Allen) and Annie (Diane Keaton, in an Oscar-winning performance) -- about as hard as Alvy falls for Annie, you might say. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll "luurve" it.
7. 'Moonstruck' (1987)
Cher is a widow marrying a nice-but-boring man (Danny Aiello) -- until she meets his wildly passionate brother (Nicolas Cage). How nice it is to remember the 'Treasure'-hunting Cage as a brooding bad boy -- and a surprisingly seductive one at that.
6. 'The Way We Were' (1973)
Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford may not seem like a love match (he's an uptight WASP, she's an idealistic socialist), but that's what makes them so memorable. Because she wants it to work out so badly, so do we.
5. 'Gone With the Wind' (1939)
This sweeping Civil War drama about a Southern belle (Vivien Leigh) and a rogue (Clark Gable) is a love story with as many heart-stopping victories and reversals as the war itself. Frankly, my dear, we do give a damn.
4. 'An Affair to Remember' (1957)
Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr meet on a cruise and promise to reconnect six months later atop the Empire State building. If you get sucked in, don't feel bad. 'Sleepless in Seattle' director Nora Ephron loves it, too
3. 'Wuthering Heights' (1939)
A rich girl (Merle Oberon) rejects her stable boy/true love (Laurence Olivier), but soon realizes her mistake. Of course, it's not until she's on her deathbed that the two lovers reconnect. Haunting has never been so romantic.
2. 'Titanic' (1997)
The ultimate date movie, this weepy flick has a big boat, awesome special effects and Kate Winslet to keep guys entertained. Women have plenty to swoon over thanks to the tragic love story and dreamy Leonardo DiCaprio. King of the world, indeed.
1. 'Casablanca' (1942)
When Humphrey Bogart tells Ingrid Bergman she has to leave him or regret it "maybe not today. Maybe not tomorrow. But soon, and for the rest of your life," waterworks are unavoidable. Sixty-five years later, no film has better nailed a true romance.
Do you agree with the rankings?? What are your favorites? Make sure to let us know by leaving a comment below!
Summer can be both the best of times and the worst of times for many families. While we all love to spend time with our kids, we are often looking for things to do that will be fun and exciting but also something that won't break the bank! Here in Kansas City, there are a lot of things to do and explore that can be new, even to a lifelong resident. Here are some of our favorite places to find summer fun in Kansas City!:
- The Deanna Rose Childrens' Farmstead - Located in Overland Park, this is a special place for kids to go to have fun with your kids. You can walk the nature trail, sit in the butterfly garden, visit the petting zoo, pan for gold and even hook a live worm. The best part is, this is a free activity -- they only ask for donations.
- Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park - This is always a favorite among our staff and kids. If your child has a knack for the theatrical, this may be just the inspiration they need to explore their talents! Not only is it fun for kids, but the adults never complain about going either. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs -- they have concessions available or you can even bring in a picnic! New this year...Panera Bread is available for concessions!
- Union Station - is always a fun option for a day out. The travelling exhibits are always changing and there is definitely something for everyone. It's a great way to explore the history of Kansas City and do some fun things too! Make sure to check out Science City while you're there!
- T-Bones Baseball - We may be a little partial since they're our neighbors but nothing beats a T-Bones Baseball Game! Take the little ones out for the ballgame and have a night of family fun! Make sure to click on the link above to plan your visit!
- Kansas City Explorers - Not your typical tennis experience, this is a must-do in Kansas City! Cheer for our team in a high-energy tennis environment. As their website says, "No golf claps allowed!"
- Pick berries at The Berry Patch -- You will need to hurry because the season is almost over but there are still a few weeks left to pick! This is a great thing to do with kids -- afterwards, make fresh berry pies together!
Therse are only a few of our favorite things to do here in Kansas City! Leave a comment and share with us what YOUR favorite things are!
Come celebrate the 4th of July with Chateau Avalon in Kansas City! Whether you are looking for a romantic evening or a family-friendly event, Kansas City has a lot to offer. Check out this list of fun things to do in the area:
- KC Riverfest will take place on the 4th of July from 1 p.m. - 11 p.m. at Berkley Park (Downtown KC). There will be live performances, family activities and games, delicious food, fun entertainment and top-notch fireworks. Come join the fun!
- Parkville 4th of July Celebration - The action will take place in Historic Downtown Parkville, MO. There will fireworks and fun for the whole family. Click on the provided link to get a schedule of activities!
- T-Bones Baseball - Come out to the ball game and enjoy 4th of July fun and a great American past-time! There will be special $4 GA/Berm tickets available and $1 hotdogs with ANY beverage purchase!
These are only a few of the fun things available to do in the area! Have a very safe and happy 4th of July with the ones you love!
Chateau Avalon was honored to receive recognition from AAA travelers and readers last month! We have been named to the top three of Boutique Hotels in the Midwest by AAA's Traveler Magazine! We know that some of our fabulous Facebook Fans are responsible for getting us there...thanks for your votes!
We're not trying to "toot our own horn" or anything but we want each of you to know that we are thankful for you and your support of the Chateau! We love being able to help people create memories that will stay with them throughout their lives and without you all, we wouldn't be able to continue to do that!
Here at Chateau Avalon, we gearing up to welcome our guests for the All-Star Game that will take place in Kansas City in only a couple of short weeks! Here in Village West, we are far away enough from the festivities that you can still have a relaxing vacation but close enough to the action that you can jump in whenever you'd like. 
For more information about all the festivities taking place in honor of the All-Star game, click here! The MLB All-Star FanFest will be one of the biggest highlights of the All-Star celebration -- there will be activiites for the whole family and more delicious Kansas City food than you can wrap your head around!
For directions to Kauffman Stadium and information on parking, click here!
If you're still looking for a place to stay, we have a few rooms left. Call the hotel at 913-596-6000 or click here to book reservations online!
Chateau Avalon wishes you a Happy Father's Day! If you are still looking for the perfect gift for that wonderful dad, uncle, grandfather, husband or other significant man in your life than look no further!
We are offering some fantastic specials to make sure that we spoil dad a little bit on his special day! :) Right now through June 17th, you can get ANY Classic or Adventurous room for ONLY $199 + tax. Oh, and just because we love great dads so much, we're also including a $25 voucher to be used at d'Nile Wine Bar! 
Please call the hotel directly at 913-596-6000 to make your reservation!
If you're looking for more fun things to do to celebrate Dad in Kansas City, than check out some of these upcoming events in our area:
- June 8th @ 7:05 p.m. Kansas City T-Bones vs. Wichita Wingnuts - Community America Ballpark
- June 8th - 10th and June 14th - 17th @ 8:30 p.m. "Sweeney Todd" - Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park
- June 8th @ 8:00 p.m. Sounds of Summer, Kansas City Chamber Orchestra - Unity Temple on the Plaza
- June 9th @ 8:30 a.m. In the Blue Room: LIVE CONCERT - American Jazz Museum
- June 9th, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. & June 10th, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Crown Center Antique Festival at Crown Center Square
- June 9th @ 5:00 p.m. Live at the Legends, FREE Summer Concert Series - Legends Outlets
- June 9th @ 6:30 p.m. "Next to Normal", Kansas City Broadway Series - Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
P.S. If your dad's a golfer, make sure to check out our Pamper & Play specials!
*Father's Day special cannot be used in conjunction with any other special offer or discount. Excludes Saturdays and blackout dates. Must be 21 years or older and posess a valid credit card to book. d'Nile Wine Bar is closed Sun. - Wed.; credit can be used towards spa service or package if desired.
The Chateau Avalon is proud to announce the opening of our d’Nile Wine Bar. Since the Chateau Avalon opened you have been requesting a quiet bar where you can relax and visit. We listened and delivered.
d’Nile is a quaint hideaway on the first floor. Don’t you hate it when you go to a restaurant with your loved one and cannot hear what they are saying because of the noise and acoustics? Then you should be in d’Nile. Soundproof fabric panels adorn the walls to keep conversations intimate and echoes minimized.
As you have come to expect from Chateau Avalon, d’Nile is one of the most thematic, intimate and fun wine bars you have ever seen. From our “quicksand” floor to our 8’ tall gold Egyptian statues, there is plenty to feast your eyes upon. Our unique menu with top rated wines, spirits, and small plates will give you plenty to feast your taste buds on.
d’Nile prides itself on being out of the ordinary by carrying quality wines that you simply will not find at most bars and restaurants. In addition to numerous selections from smaller wineries, vintners like BR Cohn, Brancott Estate and Chateau St. Michelle have some of their most distinctive and celebrated wines showcased at d’Nile. Best of all d’Nile offers small (187 and 375ml) bottles so you can take a chance on wines you might not have otherwise tried.
Our signature cocktails are truly something to behold! We use only the finest spirits in the world to handcraft them. Selections include Tito’s Vodka, Hacienda Tequila and Hendrick’s Gin. With these, we also feature unique infusions, simple syrups and fresh ingredients that make our signature cocktails truly special.
Those that do not drink alcohol are too often left to drink a glass of water or the ubiquitous soda pop offering. Not in d’Nile. For those of you who want to enjoy d’Nile but prefer not to indulge in wine or spirits, we also offer some tasty and creative non-alcoholic selections. Try our Berry Beaumont, a blend of fresh squeezed lemonade, berries, simple syrup and mint or one of our other unique options.
In addition to all of our great wines and spirits, d’Nile also features a revamped and expanded small plate and dessert menu. Choices like our delicious crab cakes and chicken skewers will satisfy your hunger, and the sinful desserts like chocolate fondant cake and lemon truffles will calm your cravings. The entire new menu is available in d’Nile or, if you prefer, for room service.
Best of all, d’Nile opens up to our amazing and romantic North Patio. You can sit in this secluded hideaway engulfed in hanging flowered baskets. Romantic crooners softly play in the background while .you relax with a glass of wine and dessert under our garden lights and marvel at the beauty of the Monte Cristo tower. If you time it right you might even see some our hummingbirds as they visit the patio for their daily meals.
Everyone dreams of a resort-style destination wedding... and now you can create that incredible experience right here in Kansas City! The Chateau Avalon Bed & Breakfast Theme Hotel and Falcon Lakes Golf Club have teamed up to provide you with two one of a kind venues to experience your perfect wedding!
Imagine the wedding party checking in on Friday afternoon at the Chateau Avalon Theme Hotel for your unforgettable wedding weekend. Enjoy drinks at the new d'Nile Wine Bar or on our secluded patio before being shuttled to Falcon Lakes Golf Club for your wedding rehearsal and dinner, which is just minutes away.
Wake up to breakfast in bed to begin your special day... the girls prepare to be Pampered and the boys get ready to Play! Kick the boys out for the day to play golf at the immaculate Falcon Lakes Golf Course; while the girls get pampered with in-room massages and other packages at the Chateau Avalon Spa!
Whether you're considering an intimate ceremony or lavish reception, Falcon Lakes is the perfect setting for your special day. Our professional staff will assist you every step of the way to help you create the wedding of your dreams. You can exchange vows on our beautiful golf course with its large blue lake as your backdrop. Then celebrate in our elegant banquet room with its panoramic view of the golf course and surrounding landscape. Our large deck overlooking the lake offers additional seating and can be covered with a white tent to create a lovely ambience and protection from the elements. The Falcon Lakes banquet hall has an adjoining room with a large beautiful bar. This room is the perfect reception area before dinner and serves as the entertainment and dancing area after dinner.
Falcon Lakes state-of-the-art audio and video system including our large overhead projection screen is ideal for showing your wedding video. Our ample parking area and covered entry way provides easy access to our wheelchair accessible banquet facilities. You may even want to combine your package with a pre-wedding golf outing for your groomsmen. With Falcon Lakes convenient location to the Chateau Avalon Hotel in The Legends at Village West, your overnight guests won't have to travel far after your celebration.
It's the start of the weekend and it's beautiful outside here at the Chateau Avalon...what are your plans for the best part of the week? If you don't have any yet, here are a few things that you might want to check out! Don't forget...whatever you do, make sure you spend time with the people you love!
- You can also enjoy this beautiful weather at the Brookside Art Annual. In its 27th year, this art fair draws more people from the entire region and ranks in the top 25 shows according to Art Source. Brookside is an eclectic neighborhood in the center of Kansas City, minutes from the Country Club Plaza. The show will occur at 63rd & Brookside between Main and Wornall and will be open all weekend! Admission is FREE.
- Wear blue all weekend and support Sporting Kansas City as they take on Montreal Impact on Saturday, May 5th at 7:30 p.m. Sporting KC is ranked #1 in the Eastern Conference...so proud of our team!
- If sports isn't your thing, you might want to check out the Kansas City Ballet's performance of "Masters of American Dance." This is the Ballet's last show of the season and it is sure to be spectacular!
Enjoy your weekend and make sure you like us on Facebook to check out some awesome Mother's Day specials!:)