GstaadLife, January 2011 by Müller Medien

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Friday 28 January 2011 - Issue 1 - CHF 3.50 excl VAT

Editors Column

Skiing safely SPECIAL FEATURES

· Fashion ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

· Chopard: 150 years on earth, 10 years in Gstaad

MAGAZINE

A breath of fresh air

· Grand Hotel Park celebrates renovation & 100 years · Munich couture label at Palace Hotel · Riding Center · Daily life stories cut into each image · Restaurant expands on recent popularity · HSBC gives to kids

- To smoke or not to smoke…

Photo: Frank Müller

· GreenGo celebrates 40 years

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Friday 28 January 2011 Page 3

Contents

Gstaadlife is available in these Hotels

Letter from the Editor �� 3 Editors Column Skiing safely �� 5 + 7 Local News Chopard: 150 years on earth, 10 years in Gstaad �� 6 Grand Hotel Park celebrates renovation and 100 years �� 7 Munich couture label at Palace Hotel �� 9 Riding center ��11 Daily life stories cut into each image ��11

Feature Local News Events Column

Restaurant expands on recent popularity �� 13 HSBC arrives and gives to kids �� . . 15 New manager to bring back "old" Bären �� 15 Fashion �� 17 GreenGo celebrates 40 years �� 18 + 19 Events calendar �� 20 To smoke or not to smoke �� 22

pineapples and peaches!

curate. The Swiss come across as polite, but not exactly forthcoming with newcomers and they certainly tend to bunch together. In contrast to Oertig-Davidsons cautious and concerned coconuts, English speaking societies are made up of peaches. In the soft and fleshy outer part every stranger is a potential friend, first names are readily used, gentle banter is acceptable between peers and the home is more open to all and sundry. The mentality being described here is that friends come and go throughout life so enjoy them whilst they are there. The hard inner and smaller core of the peach in English speaking societies is reserved for family and the ones you can’t choose to loose. Perhaps the peach analogy works best for Americans, Australians, South Africans and New Zealanders whereas the British themselves are possibly more like pineapples, a little prickly at first, though easier to work through than a coconut shell, says Oertig-Davidson. Perhaps the

***** GSTAAD PALACE: +41 (0)33 748 50 00, info@palace.ch ***** GRAND HOTEL PARK: +41 (0)33 748 98 00, info@grandhotelpark.ch ***** GRAND HOTEL BELLEVUE: +41 (0)33 748 00 00, info@bellevue-gstaad.ch ***** WELLNESS & SPA HOTEL ERMITAGE-GOLF: +41 (0)33 748 60 60, ermitagegolf@ermitage-gstaad.ch **** Hotel Alpenrose: +41 (0)33 748 91 91, info@hotelalpenrose.ch **** Golfhotel Les hauts de gstaad: +41 (0)33 748 68 68, mail@golfhotel.ch **** Grand Chalet: +41 (0)33 748 76 76, hotel@grandchalet.ch

Letter from the Editor - Of coconuts, In her book on Swiss culture “Beyond Chocolate”, Margaret Oertig-Davidson uses an interesting analogy to describe the differences between Swiss and the English speaking societies. She equates the Swiss to coconuts and the English to peaches. Digging a little deeper, we see that she explains how breaking through a coconut’s outer shell is not an easy task and this analogy of breaking into Swiss society and getting to know people in a meaningful way, is what she references. In her view the Swiss have a softer inner part reserved only for family, close friends and relationships that are poised to last a lifetime. This private sphere often includes the home, which is rarely opened up to strangers. This can make the Swiss come across sometimes as cold or distant, however according to Oertig-Davidson what to outsiders appear to be unfriendly, is actually a respect for another’s personal space and taking time to get to know someone. Whilst the coconut analogy clearly isn’t a rule for all of the Swiss, it certainly is broadly ac-

UPFRONT

**** HOTEL ARC-EN-CIEL: +41 (0)33 748 43 43, www.arc-en-ciel.ch **** Hotel BERNERHOF.: +41 (0)33 748 88 44, info@bernerhof-gstaad.ch **** Hotel Christiania: +41 (0)33 744 51 21, info@christiania.ch

Swiss and the British are more alike than either realize. Both societies are ruled by unspoken etiquette and red tape. Both are societies where outsiders find it hard to make meaningful friendships or become fully integrated in society. Finally both share a reluctance to commit to a European federalism and defend the sovereignty of their own currencies. Interesting social commentary and comparison between the Swiss and English has always been around and is a healthily debated topic, probably born out of the Swiss tourist industry which was practically created, at the beginning, exclusively for the British. The fact is that there are many Anglophile Swiss, and the Brits have always come to Switzerland. “Not all that bad,” says Diccon Bewes in his recent book “Swiss Watching”, when commenting on Oertig-Davidsons analogy. “After all, pineapple and coconut make a great Pina Colada”, he says. Best wishes

**** Hotel GSTAADERHOF: +41 (0)33 748 63 63, gstaaderhof@gstaad.ch

Peter Sonnekus-Williams Editor in Chief

Hotel Geltenhorn: +41 (0)33 765 30 22, F: +41 (0)33 765 32 31

GSTAAD LIFE, Anzeiger von Saanen, Kirchstrasse, P.O. Box 201, 3780 Gstaad, Phone: 033 748 88 74, Fax: 033 748 88 84, E-Mail: info@gstaadlife.ch, Website: www.gstaadlife.ch Management Board: Frank Müller, Peter Sonnekus-Williams Publisher: Frank Müller frank.mueller@gstaadlife.ch; Editor in Chief: Peter Sonnekus-Williams peter.sonnekus@gstaadlife.ch; Project Management and content coordination: Sanet Sonnekus-Williams Columnist: Mandolyna Theodoracopulos Translations: Diana Oehrli Editorial: Peter Sonnekus-Williams, Anita Moser, Christine Eisenbeis, Diana Oehrli, Jean-Luc Renck, Sheila Matti, Tess Larosse Polygraph Team: Jonas Bach Printing: Müller Marketing & Druck AG, Gstaad Advertising: Peter Kuntze-Schneider peter.kuntze@gstaadlife.ch, phone 033 744 46 64 Subscriptions: Fabienne Koitka tel. 033 748 88 74

**** CHALET HOTEL HORNBERG: +41 (0)33 748 66 88, willkommen@hotel-hornberg.ch **** HOTEL OLDEN: +41 (0)33 748 49 50, info@hotelolden.com **** Hotel Steigenberger: +41 (0)33 748 64 64, gstaad@steigenberger.ch *** Hotel Bellerive: +41 (0)33 748 88 33, bellerive-gstaad@bluewin.ch *** Hotel Alpenland: +41 (0)33 765 91 34, hotel@alpenland.ch *** Hotel Alphorn: +41 (0)33 748 45 45, office@gstaad-alphorn.ch *** Hotel Alpine lodge: +41 (0)33 748 41 51, info@alpinelodge.ch *** Hotel Kernen: +41 (0)33 748 40 20, info@hotel-kernen.ch *** Hotel Landhaus: +41 (0)33 748 40 40, landhaus-saanen@bluewin.ch *** Hotel Saanerhof: +41 (0)33 744 15 15, hotel@saanerhof.ch *** Hotel Solsana: +41 (0)33 748 94 94, info@solsana.ch *** Hotel Spitzhorn: +41 (0)33 748 41 41, hotel@spitzhorn.ch *** Posthotel Rössli: +41 (0)33 748 42 42, info@posthotelroessli.ch *** SPORTHOTEL VICTORIA: +41 (0)33 748 44 22, info@victoria-gstaad.ch *** Z'loft Hotel: +41 (0)33 744 69 69, info@zloft.ch Hotel Bären: +41 (0)33 755 10 33, hotel@baerengsteig.ch

Hotel Sanetsch: +41 (0)33 755 10 10, F: +41 (0)33 755 18 11 Hotel Viktoria: +41 (0)33 755 10 34, hotel_viktoria@bluewin.ch Hotel Wildhorn: +41 (0)33 765 30 12, hotel@wildhorn.ch

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18.11.10 13:12

Friday 28 January 2011 Page 5

Editors Column Photo: GST

Skiing safely BY Peter Sonnekus-Williams Albeit a little while back, according to the “Sonntagzeitung’s” 16th March 2008 survey of the 11 ski areas with the highest people turnover in German speaking Switzerland, the Gstaad Ski region achieved the best safety record. This is good news of course. We know Gstaad is not an overcrowded region with slopes that are well prepared and signposted and there are snow patrols reminding people of correct protocol on the piste. However accidents still happen keeping the emergency services busy throughout the season with the usual high incidences of leg and shoulder injuries which are most common.

The reason why there are still relatively high incidents of ski accidents is clear when discussing the point with local ski instructors. Many of them tend to mention the same points. In summary it seems that the technological advancement of the ski combined with the slick grooming of piste has skiers going a lot faster than in the past. This has happened without an equal safety counter balance or a dramatic improvement in skier competence. Technological advancement in skis has been pretty much revolutionary in recent years. A modern day ski is characterized by being narrow at the binding and wide at the front and rear. It is much easier to turn

than the old “Pommes Frites” skis. The saying goes that, a twitch of the ear is enough to turn a modern ski. This is a key advancement and has essentially made it easier to ski. Deep carves are now possible which results in less braking and the achievement of higher speeds. This exhilarating ski method however puts a lot of demand on the skier, who in many cases is not as capable as the ski’s attached resulting in questionable control capabilities. A momentary loss of control can turn into a nasty crash. Modern skis are as technologically advanced, within their sports category context, as competitive racing cars are within theirs. The difference that resides in

this comparison however is that the racing car has a pro racing driver in it and the skis are often attached to a once or twice a year leisure pilot. Looking back In past years the Wasserngrat was a mineﬁeld of moguls that needed to be negotiated en route. This was hard work and only the best of skiers were able to work their way down the slope. Speed control was paramount; physical condition and ﬁtness was just as important. Today the spectacularly groomed Wasserngrat pistes are as smooth as a motorcar highway, capable of accommodating skiers at speeds of continued on Page 7

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Chopard: 150 years on earth, 10 years in Gstaad Translated and adapted from the article by Anita Moser AVS 31.12.2010 Chopard, the luxury watchmaker and jeweler, celebrated two anniversaries in 2010: 150 years on planet earth, and 10 years in GstaPhoto: zvg

Antiquités – Décoration objets de curiosité 10h30 – 12h30 14h30 – 18h30

TEL. 033 748 10 89 INFO@EPOCAGALLERY.CH Dorfstrasse 73, 3792 Saanen

Chopard co-president Karl-Friedrich and his wife, Christine Scheufele

ad. To celebrate its sesquicentennial, Chopard introduced the ‘Animal World’ jewellery collection and a three-year philanthropic partnership with the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF), an international environmental organization. Part of jewellery sales will support WWF programs, specifically to rescue the disappearing tiger, the numbers of which are estimated to be as low as 3,200 in the wild. The year 2010 was the “Year of the Tiger” in the Chinese lunar calendar. Copresident Karl-Friedrich Scheufele and his family have been coming to Lauenen for over 25 years. Since the opening of the Chopard boutique in Gstaad ten years ago, Saanenland has become more than a vacation destination for the Scheufeles.

Friday 28 January 2011 Page 7

continued from Page 5 over 80 KPH. You no longer need a masterful skier to tackle this slope. A taste for speed, a dose of courage, reasonable skills and good equipment will have you blasting down 5 to 10 times in a morning session. Faster and more extreme Skiing is certainly changing in the same way as nearly all sports are, faster and more extreme is the

trend. This will ﬁlter through all layers of the sport from casual to professional participation, from equipment to environments. The counter balance to all of this is improved safety and deeper fellow consideration. Such methods have been implemented into many sports. Surﬁng for example now has big wave riders wearing buoyancy devices. Strapped to their legs are emergency oxygen cylinders, which can be used in the event of

Editors Column

FIS 10 key rules of ski conduct: • Do not endanger or prejudice others. • Move in control. Adapt your manner of skiing or snowboarding and speed to your ability and to the general conditions on the mountain. • Do not impede the route of the skier and snowboarder in front of you. • Leave a wide berth when overtaking. • Look up the slopes each time before starting. • Only stop at the edge of the piste or where you can be seen easily. • When climbing up or down keep to the side of the piste. • Obey all signs and markings. • Always provide help to others and alert the rescue service. • All persons involved in an accident including witnesses must exchange names and addresses.

a surfer being held underwater for too long. They only take off on a wave, one person at a time, and Jet ski’s pick up the surfers to get them out of the line-up once they have kicked out from a wave. Motor sport has similar analogies, where safety equipment and protocol has vastly improved over the last 20 years. It seems to me that there is still a long way to go with skiing regarding counter balancing the forces that have us going faster with not necessarily equal skills.

Wearing helmets and back armour devices are a good start, however I am sure that airbag technological developments that are being built into motorcycle racing suits and helmets, once perfected will ﬁnd their way onto our slopes, Until then, maybe it is prudent to stick to the rules provided, ski most of the time between 30% and 60% of the speeds we know we can reach, and adopt an empathetic attitude to all those on the piste by skiing in consideration of others.

Hotel Park celebrates renovation and 100 years Translated and adapted from the article by Christine Eisenbeis AVS 21.12.2010 On December 18, the Grand Hotel Park celebrated its centennial and reopening, after a nine-month renovation and redesign, with a party

that drew 700 guests, some coming from all around the world. Parking was made available at the Wispile parking lot and a shuttle bus was

Hotel owner and host of the evening Dona Bertarelli.

used to bring people to the hotel. In the afternoon, there was an iceskating show for children on a small rink in the hotel garden. According

Hotel director Jean-Yves Blatt.

to hotel director, Jean-Yves Blatt, the hotel is well booked for the entire winter season. For the renovation, hotel owner Dona Bertarelli chose architect Herbert Gnägi and interior decorator Federica Palacios. Responsible for the 2006 hotel spa remodeling, Palacios also happens to be a chalet owner in Gstaad. The goal was to create a more youthful image, while keeping a calm, masculine and harmonious look, an atmosphere fitting the personality and taste of the sporty and involved owner.

Riding Paths from www.gstaadlife.com Photo: zvg

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The Gruben-Saali winter riding path has been open since January 01 2011. This certainly being good news for all the horse back riders in the Saanenland.

Friday 28 January 2011 Page 9

LOCAL NEWS

Munich couture label at Palace Hotel By Diana Oehrli Photos: Diana Oehrli

stands for luxury, individuality, and nobility. And therefore, it has become a top insider address.” The “must haves” of their collection include evening gowns, cocktail dresses and a selection of prêt-àporter items and accessories. Their mission: “We interpret today’s spirit of the time for the modern, elegant, style conscious and discerning woman.” A ‘Georg et Arend’ fashion show took place in the lobby of the Gstaad Palace Hotel. A fashion show organized by Star Design, a clothing boutique on Gstaad’s Promenade, took place in the lobby of the Gstaad Palace Hotel on December 28. Hotel guests and VIP customers were treated to a presentation of evening and cocktail wear by the Munich label “Georg et Arend” and “Valentino.”

Behind the “Georg et Arend” couture label are twin brothers, after whom the label was named. Since they founded their label in Munich in 2006, the brothers’ names have become associated with Maximilianstrasse, Munich’s luxury shopping street. According to their in-house literature: “The Munich couture label

Georg et Arend is exclusively represented by Star Design, a shop that is owned by Gstaad residents Curt G. and Heidemarie Engelhorn. The Engelhorns have purchased substantial properties in Saanenland and have donated large sums to Gstaad’s sporting and cultural events. The Engelhorn’s close ties to Munich explain the connection to Georg et Arend. For more information, check out www.georgetarend.com

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Denis Burrus, Estate Agent in Gstaad: “Positive Altitude” by Jean-Luc Renck Operating as a real estate agent in a prestigious location in the Swiss Alps is Denis Burrus’ choice in life. With Burrus & Partners S.A., he carries on the entrepreneurial spirit of a dynasty of industrialists in Gstaad, in the Bernese Oberland. One may say that estate agent Denis Burrus leapt from peak to peak. Born in Boncourt in the Swiss Jura mountains to a family of industrialists dedicated

to growing tobacco for 8 generations - from 1814 to 1996 – Denis Burrus currently heads the real estate agency Burrus & Partners S.A. in the highly sought-after resort of Gstaad. The Heart of Gstaad Following a quick stint in a U.S. university to complete his marketing studies, in 1988 Denis took to the Alps as head of mountain real estate sales with de Rham Sotheby’s International Realty, one of the top realtors in the Lake Geneva area. In this position for close to twenty years, this friendly, outgoing professional established a privileged relationship with the Gstaad area, south-west of Canton Bern. So when he decided to pursue his career in a new direction in 2006, he naturally chose Gstaad as the seat of Burrus & Partners S.A., to capitalize on his wealth of experience, values of excellence, work ethics and many close ties with the great European families and stars revolving around this resort. Looking for a Residence in Gstaad? The breathtaking natural environment and “Belle époque” atmosphere still present in the resort, as well as the traditional wooden homes, beautifully preserved or reproduced by the local artisans, has particular appeal to American, British & Greek guests. Constantine of Greece, Elizabeth Taylor, Roman Polanski and Bernie Ecclestone are all among faithful residents of the Bernese resort, as are Juan Carlos I of Spain, Ernesto Bertarelli and Johnny Hallyday, among others…

Although Gstaad is much soughtafter by the great, this does not make it impossible to acquire property there. As Denis Burrus can confirm to any prospective buyer, about twenty selected residences are currently listed with Burrus & Partners. A 200 m2 apartment in a chalet – i.e. the floor area which non-Swiss individuals are allowed to purchase – now has a market value of approximately 4 million Euros. As for chalets, depending on location and size, prices range from 3.5 to over 20 million Euros, i.e. from 15 to 35,000 Euro per m2. “Should your steps take you to Gstaad and if, like so many others, you fall in love with this haven

Denis Burrus of peace and well-being, I shall be pleased to help you take root here by helping you find the right property”, assures Denis Burrus. Is that a date?

Gstaad: A Century of Passion For a hundred years, the timeless beauty of Gstaad has captured the hearts of the wealthy, seduced by this village at a crossroads between four valleys surrounded by venerable mountains – a delight for skiers in winter and hikers in summer. In the olden days one quickly passed through these inaccessible farmlands, at most to change horses before reaching Lake Geneva or the German part of Switzerland. It was the railways which, on the eve of the 20th century, raised Gstaad from a mere stopover to a chic, high-end destination. From the opening of the Grand Hôtel Alpina, wealthy Russian and Hungarian families flocked to Gstaad with their whole retinue. The inauguration of the legendary Palace hotel added to the attraction, as did the decision by the famous private school Le Rosey, located in Rolle close to Lausanne, to hold its winter sessions and summer camps in Gstaad. The regular presence of this school – among the most expensive in Europe – continues to drive Gstaad’s international repute. Contact: BURRUS & PARTNERS LUXURY REAL ESTATE SA Bodestrasse 19, 3780 GSTAAD ++41 33 744 37 37, www.burrusandpartners.com

Friday 28 January 2011 Page 11

Local news

New riding center opens its doors Translated and adapted from the article by Anita Moser AVS 18.01.2010 On January 15, less than a month after horses and personnel moved in, the new riding center opened its doors to the public. “We served over 50 liters of Glühwein and over 30 liters of punch,” said Ernst Voegeli, leaseholder and manager of the facility. Meeting the highest safety and industry standards, the building comprises of 25 box stalls, a large indoor riding ring as well as every thing else that could belong to a modern riding center, including two equine solariums, a cozy club room with a view into the ring, and employee apartments. “The new equestrian center is one of the most beautiful in the whole

erein Gstaad-Saanenland and member of the Reitzentrum Gstaad AG. The hall is reserved for the Reit- und Fahrverein two evenings per week.

In the new indoor ring, members of the Reit- und Fahrverein demonstrated how to work with horses according to the Parelli Method, which is based on mutual communication, respect, and trust between man and horse. of Europe,” concurred Ernst Voegeli and Marcel Bach, president of Reitzentrum Gstaad AG. “One could

not have asked for anything more beautiful,” said Oliver von Grünigen, president of the Reit- und Fahrv-

Costing approximately SFr. 9 million, the facility was financed by sponsors and donors in the large part. The commune of Saanen contributed SFr. 550,000 for the building and SFr. 250,000 for the creation of riding trails. “The financing is secured to a large extent,” Bach said. “We are in the final stretch.” As soon as weather permits, work will begin on the outside riding ring, adjacent to the pastures on the opposite bank of the Saane River, an area that is accessible via a new wooden covered bridge.

Daily life stories cut into each image Translated and adapted from the article by Sheila Matti. An exhibition of Ueli Hofer’s Scherenschnitte (German: paper cuts)

is to be found in the Hotel Gstaaderhof until April 3. The 58-year old

artist is no stranger to Saanenland, having shown four times at the Heimatwerk Saanen. His works have also appeared in Hong Kong and New York. “Saanenland is characterized by many Scherenschnitt artists, such as Hauswirth and Jungen,” Hofer said. “My art is well-liked here, because it fits in the region.” Early in his artistic career, Hofer focused on paper cuts. Then for 20 years, he switched to collages. “Over the years, the structure of my pictures changed, but the language stayed the same,” he said.

Ueli Hofer in front of his Scherenschnitt “Paradise” in the Hotel Gstaaderhof.

Ueli Hofer was born in 1952 in Lütiwil in Emmental. As a child, his creativity was awakened by nature.

After passing his baking and pastry masters exam, he chose the artistic route, creating his first series of Scherenschnitte. His art gained a reputation. In 2003, he won the Canton Berne’s Cultural Prize, awarding Hofer a half-year in New York. Hofer says that this period in the city inspired him to create one image a day. “The pulsating city life and the finding of curiosities, in material and spiritual form, gave me one idea after another,” he said. Last year, Hofer exhibited his works in China. Nature and daily life continue to inspire Hofer, who leads a regimented life. “As in every other occupation, an artist has periods of joy and of suffering. With my work, I am not as free as people think.”

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Greek Gourmet week with Anthoula’s Platia Enchanted by the ambiance of this local tavern in Greece, Ernst Andrea Scherz invited the Krito family to come and cook at the Gstaad Palace, from March 5-12, 2011 daily at 7:30pm at the Gildo’s Ristorante. www.anthoulas-restaurant.gr Guests are welcome to taste great classics of the Gstaad Palace in our newly renovated and elegant Le Grand Restaurant. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served on a daily basis.

even in the coldest days of winter. It’s also the only sports car that is faster at altitude than at sea level, so you’ll never have to downshift on high mountain passes. To demonstrate the Roadster’s four-season capability, Tesla is hosting test drives in some of the Alps most prestigious resorts. If you want a supercar with virtually instantaneous traction control – and the only one that can be charged with renewable energy, please schedule a test drive. Come join us at the Gstaad Palace, test drives available by appointment only.

The Tesla Roadster Alpine Tour takes place on Monday, February 14, 2011 – Thursday, February 17, 2011 from 09h00 – 20h00.

RSVP contact Jochen Rudat at m +41(0) 78 907 07 37 or jrudat@teslamotors.com

Tesla has nearly 1,500 owners worldwide, and many of them drive their Roadsters all year long. They know that the Roadster is full of gusto

The famous nightclub GreenGo at the Gstaad Palace recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. For this special occasion, Hublot and

Gstaad Palace Winter Events 28.01 – 05.02 29.01 10.02 – 11.02 11.02 11.02 – 14.02 13.02 – 16.02 14.02 16.02 – 20.02 16.02 – 21.02 16.02 17.02 – 18.02 19.02 – 23.02 22.02 – 27.02 24.02 – 27.02 26.02 05.03 05.03 05.03 – 12.03

Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad DJ Yves “Larock” from 11pm at the GreenGo A.C. Bang Zürich, Fur Show, Exhibition & Sale DJ Falcon from 11pm at the GreenGo Chopard, Jewellery Exhibition Juanita Sabbadini, Exhibition of Haute Couture Valentine’s Day – from 7:30pm The Andipa Gallery, Exhibition of drawings de Grisogono, Jewellery Exhibition Children’s Disco – from 4pm Oliver Preston, Cartoon Exhibition Michele Sciretti, Fur Exhibition Sabbadini, Jewellery Exhibition Seaman Schepps, Jewellery Exhibition Laurent Wolf („No Stress“) at GreenGo BOËRL & KROFF, Snow Golf tournament Playboy night - from 11pm at GreenGo Greek Gourmet Week – daily from 7.30pm

For Reservations contact: +41 (0)33 748 50 00

Hammam Experience (Valentine special) Indulge in the Hammam experience at the Gstaad Palace. This spiritual ritual begins with a soothing footbath, followed by tranquil moments, a cleansing foam body massage, steam bath and a dip into the “floating pool”. An oil massage completes this amazing experience.

Gstaad Palace have especially created the „Big Bang GreenGo Lim-

ited Edition“ watch, which is available at the Gstaad Palace.

Friday 28 January 2011 Page 13

LOCAL NEWS

Restaurant expands on recent popularity Translated and adapted from the article by Christine Eisenbeis AVS 21.12.2010 In the past, the Hotel Le Grand Chalet had a enviable problem: although its restaurant “La Ba-

gatelle” was experiencing success because of its popular kitchen and atmosphere, there was not always

Photo: zvg

enough room for dinning tables. Hotel director Pedro Ferreira and his team were faced with the task of conjuring up extra space. “Sometimes, we had to place tables in the parlor in order to make room for diners,” Ferreira said. These days are bygone. The parlor’s interior, carpet, and decoration were refurbished. And, the parlor will remain a parlor, a place for hotel guests and passersby to sit together comfortably for a cup of coffee. It will no longer serve as an extension to the restaurant.

Director Pedro Ferreira (right) and Steve Willié

As a solution, the hotel built a veranda that offers 25 seats and that integrates well with the hotel’s style. In winter, guests sit in the

warmth, enjoying the views of the glacier, the Wildhorn, and the Paysd’Enhaut. In summer, the glass doors open letting in fresh air and sun. A Saanenecke (German for ‘Saanen Corner’) was created in the original restaurant. It features a cozy table with corner bench, and images of Saanenland in the old days. There is a new ski room. Bathrooms were built on the ground floor. The hotel’s kitchen was expanded and modernized, including refrigeration. The hotel is now able to store and deliver kitchen rests to the waste management facilities in Saanen. They turn the organic matter into biogas, which in turn is used to generate electrical power.

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Friday 28 January 2011 Page 14

3 exceptional Chefs take over the kitchens of Grand Hotel Park From February 17th to 26th, 2011, the Marco Polo restaurant of the Grand Hotel Park hosts three Chefs each for two exceptional evenings of gastronomy. In the Marco Polo restaurant, clients are invited for six evenings to taste the recipes of Chefs Anton Mosimann, Martin Fauster, and Vineet Bhatia. 17th & 18th February : Anton Mosimann, who was born in Soleure and grew up in the neighborhoods of Bienne, has had an exceptional professional career which has taken him to Switzerland, France, Japan, Sweden, Italy, Canada, and Belgium, in particular. At only 28 years old, he took over as head of the kitchens of the Dorchester in London and received 2 stars by the Michelin Guide. The author of a dozen works, he passionately defends his “Natural Cuisine” concept, a new way to cook that avoids excess butter, cream or alcohol in the recipes in favor of fresh products and innovative cooking methods. To taste a menu by Chef Mosimann is simply to find the real taste of each seasonal product in a harmony of flavors that surpasses trends and the times. 21st and 22nd February : Chef of the Königshof kitchens in Münich since 2004, the Austrian Martin Fauster also defends a simple, inventive cuisine. The product is in the center, prepared without useless extravagance with a mastery of cooking and presentation for a purified, clear approach. From Austria, he came to Switzerland

(Quellenhof, Bad Ragaz) then joined the Michelin-starred chefs at the Schuhbeck’s Kurhausstüberl (1 star) or at the Steirereck (2 stars). His time at the Tantris (2 stars) in Münich with Chef Hans Haas, then at the Maisons de Bricourt in Cancale with Olivier Roellinger (2 stars) enabled him to acquire richer and richer knowledge. He spent another five years with Hans Haas before being launched at the head of his own brigade. Today, he holds the grade of 18/20 in the Gault Millau Guide and his first star in the Michelin Guide. 25th and 26th February : Vineet Bhatia is considered one of the pioneers of contemporary Indian cuisine. When he arrived in London, he was shocked to discover that recipes from his country of origin were distorted, he began to cook professionally as if by necessity, the necessity to reveal the true values of Indian cuisine to the world. “Modern and in movement” is the way he loves to describe his work. Modern in its presentation and in movement because it evolves with the times. With Vineet Bhatia, each recipe requires an elegant, purified presentation, as in the greatest houses. In addition, even if the traditional Tandoori Chicken, Lamb Korma and other Biryanis are on his menus, it is to discover them totally transformed, as never known before.

Information & reservation Restaurant Marco Polo - Grand Hotel Park info@grandhotelpark.ch - +41 33 748 98 00

The Marco Polo restaurant leans towards the exotic and reflects the explorer’s travels in its cuisine, a fusion of orient and occident. Executed with originality and talent. Seating just 40 guests, the atmosphere here is intimate : subtle lighting, wood features, candlelight, and Chinese – inspired lanterns. Then you have to taste the Venetian calf’s liver and its grilled polenta, the lobster sushi and spicy algae salad, the whole poached sea bream with lemongrass and ginger or the miso marinated rack of lamb. Restaurant Marco Polo Grand Hotel Park – Wispilenstrasse 29 - 3780 Gstaad +41 33 748 98 00 – info@grandhotelpark.ch www.grandhotelpark.ch

Friday 28 January 2011 Page 15

LOCAL NEWS

Big private bank arrives and gives to kids Translated and adapted from the article by Anita Moser AVS 31.12.2010 Known in Saanenland as the eightyear running main sponsor of the Menuhin Festival, HSBC Private Bank opened a branch in Gstaad

this past December. The chalet that houses the bank has been under construction since last April. It is located on the banks of the

Photo: zvg

Alexandre Zeller of HSBC hands Patric Bill of Chinderhuus Ebnit a cheque for SFr. 5,000.

Lauenenbach, a rocky stream that flows through the center of the old village. Branch manager is Hanspeter Dönier, who worked for Credit Suisse in Gstaad for more than 22 years.

sidized daycare program. Patric Bill, the manager of Chinderhuus, was thrilled with the donation and said it was unexpected of such a large, international firm to support local institutions.

At the December 27 opening ceremony, Alexandre Zeller, CEO of HSBC Private Bank (Suisse) SA, spoke to the 250-person crowd. “Gstaad is one of those places, where we particularly feel at home,” Zeller said. With these words, he presented Chinderhuus Ebnit with a check for SFr. 5,000. Chinderhuus Ebnit is a two-tiered local charitable organization providing: on the one hand, a local temporary shelter for children coming from problematic home situations, and on the other, a sub-

Founded in 1865 in Hong Kong and Shanghai, hence the name Hong Kong Shanghai Banking Corporation, the HSBC Group has been active in Switzerland since 1992 and represents the largest foreign banking group operating in this country. Its private banking division, HSBC Private Banking Holdings (Suisse) SA, employs 3,100 individuals worldwide and is headquartered in Geneva. Most important subsidiaries include Zurich, Lugano, Luxembourg, Hong Kong, Singapore, and now, Gstaad.

New manager to bring back ‘old’ Bären Translated and adapted from the article by Anita Moser AVS 21.12.2010 After a four-week reorganization closure ending in December, the 250-year old Hotel Restaurant Bären in Gsteig reopened. The new manager is Simon Hauswirth, who managed the Gstaad Pub for Scherz Hotel AG during the last two and a half years. “We were a successful team in the pub,” said Andrea Scherz, director of the Gstaad Palace and representative of Scherz Hotel AG, the true leaseholder of the Bären. “Therefore, it was an easy decision when Simon Hauswirth came up with the idea of taking over the Bären. It is a beautiful old house, and its interior also reflect this. It should be cozy, and so we paid a lot of attention to details in the

restaurant. We found old photographs in the attic and framed them. We also brought down the old lamps.”

raclette on the open fire. Prices will not be raised, said Scherz. For legal reasons, the contract be-

tween the municipality of Gsteig and Scherz AG must be renewed in April.

The Bären is to return to the old days not only outwardly but also in spirit. “It is to become a meeting place once again,” Scherz said. “Locals and international guests should feel equally welcome at the Bären. They are to sit together at the table and chat, like it was in early days at ‘The Pinte’ in the Olden.” The menu, Hauswirth assures, will correspond roughly to what customers were used to, and classics will be kept including the Fürgruebe-the room with the

New face in Gsteig: Hotel Restaurant Bären‘s new manager, Simon Hauswirth (right), and head chef Joann Conchon.

verre + lumiĂ¨re

Friday 28 January 2011 Page 17

FEATURE

Antonella Antonella is immersed into a cashmere world of fashion. Her passion for style and the worlds finest brands together with her knowledge and long-standing experience in working with cashmere garments makes Boutique Antonella one of the prize purveyors of fashion of Gstaad. Boutique Antonella stocks a wide collection of high quality cashmere garments. These products are carefully conceived by Antonella and produced in her native country, Italy. It is well worth a browse through Antonella’s collection of cardigans, capes, dressing gowns, skirts, dresses, joggings, leggings, pashminas and men & ladies slippers, to find that unique present for someone special. An all-time favorite is the beautiful variety of sable fur coats by leading Italian fur

fashion designer Giuliana Teso, which are presented in a wide variety of colours. Further on offer at Antonella’s are accessories such as gloves, hats, ear muffs, scarves and special crocodile evening handbags. Clients can further indulge in the stylish and sophisticated lingerie collection Christies. This luxurious and innovative collection is made in Italy with a touch of French style. Arguably the most fashionable accessory on the slopes are Antonella’s stock of new ski helmets in cashmere & leather.

which can be found at Antonella’s. The seasonally shed hair of the red deer is carefully collected, found at the animals grazing places. It is this hair that is turned into these unique sweaters. Stylish and luxurious for men, are the combination of high quality baby cashmere and chinchilla blazers.

Very rare, beautiful and 100% authentic in natural colors, are the V-neck sweaters for men, produced from the New Zealand red deer,

Amongst the elegant Amina Rubinacci ladies collection, are the Jackie Kennedy-style capri pants, blazers & blouses - with a promise of a great spring collection. A collection of

Zwahlen-Hüni is a family-run business that is well established in Saanen and Gstaad since 1948.

Pernet and Bijouterie Villiger. During this winter the old shop at "Brunnehuus" serves as an outlet-store, where you can find a lot of 1/2 priced items.

This ladies and mens fashion house stocks an extensive range of cashmere sweaters, classic English tweed jackets, cashmere blazers as well as a wide choice of corduroy trousers in many different colours with a good range of neck ties.

The shop in Gstaad has moved beginning December from the "Brunnehuus" opposite the Posthotel Rössli, down to the "Villigerhuus" opposite the Rialto. A red carpet is showing the way to the entrance in the side street in-between Café

Zwahlen-Hüni represents many quality fashion brands such as: Mirabell Salzburg knitwear, Poldi and Lodenfrey Austrian jackets, Geox shoes and jackets, Mc Gregor, Barbour, Arthur pyjamas for the whole family - just to name a few.

Zwahlen-Hüni is stockist of the Longchamp brand in the Saanenland and has a fine range of handbags and suitcases in vibrant colours and sizes. Austrian style jackets can be made to measure and the materials and styles can be chosen, therefore creating your own jacket. Under the label "Couture by Zwahlen-Hüni" an exclusive line of ladies and mens jackets were designed by Alex Zwahlen for the first time this winter. The Spring collection will follow soon. A lot of accessories including socks, underwear, belts, cashmere and

“Hunter” boots with fur inside is a necessity for winter days. Also in store, are high quality Parisian-brand leather boots Sartore for ladies, or the LFA ladies boots from Australia, which are great in the snow. Beautiful cashmere slippers for men and ladies, as well as ballerina shoes made in Italy. This wonderful broad selection of fashion is topped off with a wide choice of evening dresses from New York. Boutique Antonella Promenade · 3780 Gstaad Tel. 033 744 34 07

wool scarves, pashminas, fur hats and gloves are on display in both shops. You really can find all you need under one roof at Zwahlen Hüni in Saanen or in Gstaad. The upstairs section at ZwahlenHüni in Saanen stocks a full range of Switcher products that includes t-shirt’s, jackets, jogging suits etc. for ladies, men and children. Zwahlen Hüni Saanen Dorfstrasse 50/52 033 744 16 87 Zwahlen Hüni Gstaad Promenade 55 033 744 22 73

Friday 28 January 2011 Page 18

Photos: Raphael Faux, www.gstaadphotography.com / Gstaad Palace

LOCAL NEWS

Ernst Scherz

On Saturday the 7th of January, the Scherz family from the Palace Hotel threw a fabulous party to celebrate 40 years of the GreenGo night-club ! The 70’s were of course the theme of the hour with everyone dressed up in funky outfits, wigs, disco dresses or flares… so off I went, gold ‘’Abba-esque’’ leggings and a pair of unfamiliar but strangely comfortable six inch platforms in search of the die-hard Gstaad party crowd to find out just what exactly the GreenGo means to them. After it opened in 1971, the legendary disco at the Gstaad Palace rapidly became the ‘in’ place to be in Gstaad and where the jet set came to dance… Roger Moore, Elizabeth Taylor, Princess Diana,

Peter Sellers

Michael Jackson, Richard Burton, Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly, David Niven, Peter Sellers, King Juan Carlos, to name but a few… The club was designed by Teo Jakob and the decor decked out seventies style, was hugely inspired by the fashion of the era. The designer created orange lamps scattered with hundreds of round medallions mirroring the famous dresses by Paco Rabanne. The floor and seats were covered in green carpet, and the ceiling with silver discs reflecting in a psychedelic way the silhouettes and movements of the dancers out on the dance floor. Completely renovated in 2006, the GreenGo has stayed faithful to its basic concept of the 1970s.

the club with a ‘’Black Magic’’ base featuring the two famous green and orange colours in a series of just 40 pieces (for 40 years), available only at the Gstaad Palace. The GreenGo logo takes its place on the dial instead of the index at 8 o‘clock… or at 40 minutes, representing 40 years of legendary parties. The presentation was held on the evening of the party, and several watches were handed out to the purchasers by Jean-Claude Biver, CEO of Hublot.

middle. One night, I was thrown in the pool, but that was many years ago… Bruno Washer

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the GreenGo, the Gstaad Palace and Hublot teamed up to create a “Big Bang” watch in the colours of

I’ve been coming here for 37 years, and the first time I came was with my parents all those years ago. Nowadays, I always have ‘my’ table, second on the right as you walk in, usually with a bottle of JB in the

I’m one of the oldest in here, most of these guys were in short pants back then, and I can tell you how it all came about…We were with the Aga Kahn in Sardinia, and my father decided that the hotel needed a pool and a sauna. So he then decided that we may as well add a bunch of other things and make a club, because people were lounging around everywhere…upstairs, in the Lobby…along the corridors…so we planned this club. We had one older gentleman guest who would ask Luigi to call him when all the pretty girls came in, then he’d come down in his pyjamas ! After 20 years, we wanted a refit and asked the regulars what we should do, they replied ‘’don’t change it ‘’ !! So here we are, after the re-vamp in 2006 and it remains just the same, so I guess it will stay this way for another 20 years. Also, thank-you

Bruno Washer and friends

Anoushka Gerlach, Simone Roth, Laura Scherz, Tess Larosse

Jim LeBlanc, resident D.J. at the GreenGo since 2004

Not only have the rich and famous partied here… I caught up with some of the regular party people at the GreenGo that night, and found out how long they’ve all been frequenting the Club.

Friday 28 January 2011 Page 19

Laura and Andrea Scherz

Andrea Scherz with his team

for the last 40 years and 100’000 bottles of Dom Perignon sold, because now we get some for free ! Ernst Scherz

at the weekends and we’d all meet here, it’s all about the fond memories, good friends, and a little bit of heartbreak…I’ve never missed a Igor Blatnik Season !

The Greengo is about family, and after 40 years it is still a legend, and it’s wonderful to be part of a legend. Legends never die… We created this watch, which we will hand over to some of those who have acquired them, but we would like to offer the number 40 for charity, to Innocence in Danger. Children are our most important asset, and too many of them are mistreated. Jean-Claude Biver, CEO Hublot I’ve been coming here since I was 15 and was kicked out by Luigi as I tried to sneak in through the kitchen – he threatened to tell my Dad, so I ran home…needless to say, in all the years of coming to the GreenGo, I have to applaud the staff – I feel really at home here. I used to come home from school

Andrea Scherz, Igor Blatnik, Jean-Claude Biver

At a very early age, a friend and I sneaked into the Club through the kitchen window, but Luigi threw us out ! I met my wife Constance here on Christmas Eve in 1987 and I have a lot of good memories of the GreenGo. Now we have three daughters who come in here using Dad’s credit card, but we have Romano to watch over them and take care, so no worries. That’s the beauty of Gstaad and the GreenGo, it’s wonderful. Mete Sarper I was 19 when I first came here, and we would devise ways to get past Romano and into the Club. One night, we were at the Fromagerie for a friend’s 18th birthday party and we ended up at the GreenGo, apparently I met my future husband that night, although

Boris Blatnik and Victor Ferrari

LOCAL NEWS

Ernst and Andrea Scherz I don’t really remember… My poor father couldn’t sleep until I came home. Both my children love music, though I’d say Alex is really into dancing and likes to show us his sexy moves ‘a la Hugh Grant’. Who would have thought I’d end up here Laura Scherz for life ! We had this game that we used to play…in the bathrooms we’d play this crazy ‘Russian Roulette’’ spinning the lamp around and banging our heads on it until a fuse blew… crazy, I know…we were young…One of our friends is still scarred, and if you look around at some of the original lamps, they still have dents in them. Moody Fahed

meticulous attention to detail. L aura is the most beautiful, elegant hostess, and Andrea is always ready with a smile and a little secret joke. The GreenGo is what other clubs should aspire to be, cool, but steeped in tradition. On behalf of the JFK School, we thank you all for what you do for us. Victoria Lovell

My memories of the children’s parties are the best and all done with

There’s just too much to tell, and not enough time, everyone here loves the GreenGo, and besides, the later it gets, the less I make sense - so true to tradition we get down to the serious business of partying. Resident DJ Jimmy LeBlanc spins the funky disco tunes until well into the early hours to a crowded dance-floor. Needless to say, I was to be found clutching my 6 inch gold platform heels and heading off to bed for a few hours sleep before heading off to work the next day, as the sun rose over Gstaad… long live the GreenGo ! Tess Larosse

Victoria and Bryce Lovell

Luigi, 2nd Maitre d’ at the GreenGo

I remember the first time I came here, and an old guy pinched my butt on the dance-floor – it was my Dad telling me to get home to bed ! Aimée Salmi

Events

Friday 28 January 2011 Page 20

Events Calendar

Friday January 28 2011 until Friday February 18 2011

■■FRIDAY, JANUARY 28

whole family at Lätzgüetli, Saanenmöser.

■■THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3

■■FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18

19h30: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad – Or-

Rate SFr70 – SFr85. www.fairplay-timing.ch

16h00: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

11h00-18h00: Market in Gstaad on the

■■SUNDAY, JANUARY 30

Sophie Pacini at the Gstaad Kapelle. Rate SFr25.

Kapälliplatz. For more info, contact Patricia

16h00: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

■■THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3

von Grünigen, +41 (0)33 744 78 83.

Adam Laloum in the Gstaad Kapelle.

Landi-Cup on the Wispile: ski race for

■■FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18

Rate: SFr 25. Phone +41 (0)33 748 81 81.

children up to 15yrs old. Beginning of the race in

Sledge by full moon. Locality: Berghaus Wisp-

■■SUNDAY, JANUARY 30

the afternoon. For more info: www.scgstaad.ch

ile, Schlittelweg Wispile-Gsteig. Dinner & sledge

or contact +41 (0)33 744 11 55.

tour by night. Rate SFr45 – SFr65. Contact +41 (0)33 748 96 32 for more info.

chestre de Chambre de Lausanne in the Saanen church. Rate SFr 30 - SFr 160. Reservation possible, contact +41 (0)22 738 66 75. 21h30: Gstaad Palace Dîner de gala à la Salle Baccarat SFr 220.

■■FRIDAY, JANUARY 28 –

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2011

19h30: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad

Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad – 10th edi-

– Yaara Tal & Andreas Groethuysen at the

■■FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4

tion: Classic music festival. Greatly influenced

Rougemont church. Rate SFr25 – SFr45.

16h00: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

by the piano, the stars of today and tomorrow

Phone +41 (0)33 748 81 82.

Juan P_rez Florist_n at the Gstaad Kapelle. Rate

■■Rotary Club Gstaad-Saanenland

will play music in the winter wonderland of

■■MONDAY, JANUARY 31

SFr25. Phone +41 (0)33 748 81 82.

Meetings every Monday 12h00

16h00: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

■■FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4

Palace Hotel Gstaad (033 / 748 50 00),

Claire Huangci at the Gstaad Kapelle.

19h30: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

Rate SFr25. Phone +41 (0)33 748 81 82.

Polnische Kammerphilharmonie at the Saanen

■■MONDAY, JANUARY 31

church. Rate SFr30 – SFr160.

19h30: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

■■SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5

Exposition Funi in the museum der

Francesco Piemontesi at the Rougemont church.

Eggli Rail Jam 2011 freeski-snowboard

Landschaft Saanen. Open on Tuesdays until

Rate SFr25 – SFr45. Phone +41 (0)33 748 81 82.

freestyle event. Contact +41 (0)33 744 75 70

Sundays, 14h00-17h00.

■■TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 1

for more info or www.pure-snowboard.ch

19h30: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

■■SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5

■■SATURDAY, JANUARY 29

Golf, Schönried, Tel. 033 748 60 60. For details

Marc-André Hamelin at the Rougemont church.

19h30: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

and program contact

16h00: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

Rate SFr 25 – SFr45. Phone +41 (0)33 748 81 82.

Rudolf Buchbinder, piano in the Saanen church.

Urs Wittwer, president, 033 748 99 11,

■■TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 1

Rate SFr30 – SFr160.

info@wittwer-fleurs.ch,

16h00: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

■■SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5

htttp://gstaad-saanenland.lionsclub.ch

Mona Asuka Ott at the Gstaad Kapelle.

16h00: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

Rate SFr 25.

Benjamin Grosvenor at the kapelle in Gstaad.

the holiday region of Gstaad. Locality: diverse churches. Reservation possible. Tickets: Gstaad Saanenland Tourism Tel +41 (0)33 748 81 82 or www.sommets-musicaux.com

■■FRIDAY, JANUARY 28 –

SUNDAY, APRIL 24, 2011

Phone +41 (0)33 744 79 88.

Jan Lisiecki at the Kapelle, Gstaad. Tel +41 (0)33 748 81 82.

■■SATURDAY, JANUARY 29 09h30: JO-Slalom (Leki JO-Cup) for girls and boys JO I & JO II, at the racing centre Huble. Free entry. Phone +41 (0)33 744 42 13 for more info.

■■TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 1 –

SATURDAY, MARCH 12, 2011

Exhibition of Afi Nafissy at Bijouterie Adler

Rate SFr 25.

■■SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5 18h00: Grund-Night-Slalom for women &

■■SATURDAY, JANUARY 29

Joailliers, Gstaad. A cocktail will take place in

19h30: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

men at the racing centre Huble. Free entry.

the presence of the artist on Thursday, February

For more info: www.scgrund.ch

L’Orfeo Barockorchester in the Saanen church.

1st at 6.30pm.

Rate SFr30 – SFr160. Phone +41 (0)33 748 81 81 for more info. 21h30: Gstaad Palace Dîner avec les artistes à la Salle Baccarat SFr185.

■■TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 1 – FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2011

Exhibition of Michel Comte at the Galerie Lovers of Fine Art, Gstaad. For more info,

■■SATURDAY, JANUARY 29

contact +41 (0)33 744 00 44.

13h00: Ländlermusikanten-Skirennen in

■■WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2

Lauenen, at the Ski lift Lauenen/Hotel Geltenhorn. Rate: SFr5 – SFr15. Booking info: Thierry Lamon 079 574 10 51.

■■SATURDAY, JANUARY 29 Try Telemark at Talstation Hornberg, Saanenmöser. For more info, contact

16h00: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad – Lara Melda in the Gstaad Kapelle. Rate SFr 25. Phone +41 (0)33 748 81 82.

■■WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2 19h30: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

President: Rot. Ernst Niederhauser (033 / 744 21 90), Program: Rot. Andreas Hurni (033 / 744 36 28)

■■Lions Club Gstaad-Saanenland Meetings normally each first and third week of the month on Thursdays, either at 12h00 a.m. for lunch or at 7h00 p.m. for dinner. Meetings in Wellness & Spa-Hotel Ermitage-

■■Church Services St Peter’s English-Speaking Anglican Church, Château-d’Oex 28 January 2011, 10h00 – 10h30 Prayer Circle, Rev. Penny Frank. 30 January 2011, 17h30 Evening Prayer, Rev. Penny Frank.

■■SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5

22 – 30 January 2011, 10h00 – 12h00

18h00-21h00: Gstaad meets on ice. Once

Open Church, Rev. Penny Frank.

a month, guests and locals meet on the ice

5 February 2011, 10h00 – 12h00

skating rink, with music, sausages & drinks

Open Church, Rev. Penny Frank.

available. Locality: Eisbahn Gstaad.

6 February 2011, 17h30

■■TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 8 & 15th

Evening Prayer, Rev. Clive Atkinson.

The Berghaus Eggli restaurant on top of the Eggli is open from 19h00-23h00 on Tuesday nights. Rate SFr150. Reservation possible, phone +41 (0)33 748 96 12.

■■FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 11 – SATURDAY 12th

Information: 026 924 60 92 Web: www.allsaints.ch/chateaudoex

■■Important Numbers Ambulance 144, Police 117 Police office 033 356 84 31 Fire-brigade 118

Roustem Sa_tkoulov in the Rougemont church.

24-Hour Ski/Snowboard race in Gsteig.

Rate SFr25 – SFr45. Phone +41 (0)33 748 81 82.

Locality – Skilift Heiti. Free entry.

■■WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 9 & 16th

Contact +41 (0)33 755 81 81 for more info.

traditional Swiss music. Cable car ride up

19h00 – 21h30: Ski at night on the Wispile,

■■WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 16

from 18h00 until 21h00, down from 22h00 until

Gstaad. Adults SFr10, Children 10-16yrs SFr5,

Snowman competition in Schönried.

24h00. Fondue chinoise and cheese fondue.

Children up to 9yrs ski for free.

Registration and more info at the Tourist office in

Adults SFr 70/75, Children up to 12 years

Contact +41 (0)33 748 87 37 for more info.

Schönried or contact +41 (0)33 748 81 39.

SFr 50, without a meal SFr 35.

■■THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3

■■THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 17 – 18th

19h30: Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad –

Cartoons from Oliver Preston at the Palace

■■SUNDAY, JANUARY 30

Camerata Bern at Saanen church. Rate SFr30 –

Hotel, Gstaad. Rate: SFr500.

For the latest local weather forecast visit

29th Rivella fun ski race contest for the

SFr160. Contact +41 (0)33 748 81 82 for info.

Contact +41 (0)33 748 50 00 for more info.

www.gstaadlife.com/weather

+41 (0)79 455 78 36.

■■SATURDAY, JANUARY 29 Winter party at the Berghaus Wispile with

Reservation +41 (0)33 748 96 32.

Saanen Hospital 033 748 02 00 Château-d‘Oex Hospital 026 923 43 43 Car accident service 033 744 88 80 Veterinary 033 744 35 31 / 033 744 06 61 Medical emergency 0900 57 67 47 Dental emergency 033 748 02 00 For additional useful numbers please visit www. gstaadlife.ch/usefulnumbers

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Column

Friday 28 January 2011 Page 22

To Smoke or Not to Smoke... BY MANDOLYNA THEODORACOPULOS Obama, two well-known smokers.

Even though it’s bad for you, smoking is cool. It always has been. The smoker has a mysterious allure, an air of complexity and authority. Smokers are sophisticated types who stand out from the crowd. Enshrined in a cloud of smoke from across the room, a smoker looks intriguing; some would even say sexy.

Photo: Ben. / photocase.com

Smokers even look more important than non-smokers. They appear to have more to worry about than non-smokers and move as though they carry the world’s weight on their shoulders. Sometimes they really do, like Fidel Castro and Barack

body probably loves it. Eventually though, cigarettes become more than an after-dinner thing. They are the dog that wags the tail, and dayto-day life is constantly interrupted for the ever-precious smoke.

own rudeness and shrug off nonsmokers as judgmental killjoys if they complain. Sitting next to a chain smoker is like being stuck on a long-haul flight next to someone with chronic wind.

For young people, the hypocrisy could backfire, sort of like the “war on drugs” – everyone says it’s bad, yet a ton of people do it. Cancer notwithstanding, to smoke or not to smoke? That is the question.

Ex-smokers look upon smokers with a tinge of envy, for it is a habit one always remembers fondly. Only an ex-smoker knows how simply wonderful it is not to smoke and how much control people afford their habit. For a recent quitter, getting through a whole meal without having to puff is an extraordinary experience. But one’s enslavement to cigarettes even continues long after quitting. Four or five years after giving up, one still smokes in dreams.

Anyone who has ever smoked knows it is a damn nice thing to do. Few cigarette breaks are not a pleasure, though the best kind depends on the smoker. Some prefer the first one of the day. For others, it is the after-dinner cigarette. Post-coitus, post-coffee, you name it and some-

Smokers are easy to pooh-pooh because it is a revolting pastime and a serious addiction which is grossly inconsiderate of others. Only the rare smoker treats their companions with greater deference than their habit. Smokers are weasels because they ignore their

Smokers fill a room with all the arrogance of an occupying army, invading even non-smokers’ nostrils with their fumes. Being forced to sit in a cloud of other people’s smoke or inadvertently inhaling a strange pedestrian’s secondhand exhaust—a truly God-awful experience—are things that non-smokers have to put up with every day. One must navigate through cloudy rooms of chain-smoking revelers at parties, mountains of reeking cigarette butts in ashtrays and on doorsteps, smelly clothes, wretched wheezing, cigarette burns, foulsmelling yellowed fingers and teeth, the unsightly anxiety-riddled look of a junkie...

But all is not equal among smokers. Castro and Obama exemplify the difference between the smoker who looks cool and the smoker who lacks self-control. Fidel has the style, gravitas, and authority a smoker should have, whereas Obama looks more like an addict getting his fix than the so-called leader of the free world. But Obama does it, so it must be OK, right?

One wonders if the smoke has clouded smokers’ brains. Their noses are certainly clogged. Nonsmokers can smell a smoker’s hands from several feet away and a burning cigarette in the air from much further. It is equivalent to standing in a burning tailpipe’s shadow. Unless you’re trying to off yourself, it really is obnoxious. So please, dear smokers, let us have a breath of fresh air while we still can. At the very least, smoke the sort of cigarettes that make people laugh, and share them with the rest of us, for those are the only butts worth inhaling! So maybe the question isn’t whether or not to smoke. With all that secondhand smoke, you don’t really have a choice. The real question is what to smoke.

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La passion du piano

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