GL_Nr03_19_Feb_2010_Low by Müller Medien

T h e e x c l u s i v e m o nt h l y p u b l i c ati o n a b o u t t h e g o o d l i f e in G s taa d

MAGAZINE

Friday 19 February 2010 - Issue 3 - CHF 3.50 excl VAT

Chalet comforts In-depth article

Trauma hospital to remain?

Special Feature

Interior design & decoration Also in this issue

· Reflections from Saanen Bank · Videmanette gondola · Excel Security · Lauenen Post · Bypass road · “Treicheln” & Saaner bells · The glitter, the gays

FINE ANTIQUES, CONTEMPORARY ART AND DESIGN

After a lengthy renovation period of the historical Kleines Landhaus in Saanen, the ground floor shines in new, nobly unobtrusive splendour. Urs von Unger, antiquaire and decorator, has transformed his store into a Mecca for lovers of selected antiques from the 17th to 20th century as well as of exclusive contemporary furniture. Along with own creations produced at home or abroad by commission of Urs von Unger, wonderfully beautiful objects developed in cooperation with international designers are to be found here. UniqUe design

The captivatingly beautiful candlesticks made of rock crystal are a superb match to the interior of a chalet. Every one of the chandeliers made by the same atelier – designed from steel finds and rock crystal – is a unique piece. The concrete consoles and coffee tables can be customized in size and colour at the client’s desire, and their simplicity fits into an antique furnishing perfectly. Side tables, commodes and consoles from the most diverse materials like steel and selected timber, processed in combination with parchment, leather and cast resin make the imagination run free. selected AntiqUes

In the area of 17th to 19th century original mirrors, the store is renowned with connoisseurs to be one of the best addresses in Switzerland. Collectors of fine 18th and 19th century furniture will find rare unique pieces at Urs von Unger’s. The palette is topped off by selected objects from the

1920s to the 1970s. The unmistakingly oldest objects in the shop are a collection of unique pieces of petrified wood, millions of years old, that can be used as side tables or stools. Fine Accessories

The cold seasons in the mountains are unbearable if it were not for soft, warming covers. Urs von Unger offers a range of the finest and harmoniously coloured covers from the ALTAI Himalaya collection. This name is well known for a pure cashmere collection, hand-crafted in Mongolia and Nepal. It is specially designed for Alpine life and is a bespoke collection for the ultimate in chalet comfort. The store is also a stockist of perfumed candles by Cire Trudon Paris, a company established in 1643. cUstomized interior solUtions

Urs von Unger’s longstanding experience, professionalism as well as his sophisticated sense of details and his exquisite taste in the conception of overall interior solutions are highly appreciated by his international clientele. You are cordially invited to experience, in his stunningly beautiful store, how comfort and exclusive furniture can make up a harmonious living ambience. Urs von Unger is very much looking forward to your visit.

Urs von Unger • Kleines Landhaus • Hauptstrasse • Saanen Opening hours Monday – Friday 3 – 6 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. – 1 p.m ./2 p.m. – 6 p.m. or by appointment phone +41 (0)33 744 44 11

URS VON UNGER

FINE ANTIQUES CONTEMPORARY ART AND DESIGN

KLEINES LANDHAUS • HAUPTSTRASSE • SAANEN PHONE +41 (0)33 744 44 11

Friday 19 February 2010 Page 3

Contents

Gstaadlife is available in these Hotels

Letter from the Editor �� 3 In-depth article Trauma hospital to remain? �� 5 Local News Lionel Perrier concert & gala �� 7 Saanen Bank reflections �� 9 Gondola Videmanette closed �� 11 Excel Security Solutions ��13 Gstaad bypass road construction works ��19 Lauenen Post ��19

ISO-certification Grand Hotel Park . 20 Book presentation ��20

Events Feature Column

Events calendar �� 10 Urs von Unger ��14 Staub Interieurs ��15 Paul Andrews ��16 Tamara‘s Design ��17 Röthlisberger ��18 The glitter, the gays �� 21

Letter from the Editor - Ageing in the Alps

Peter Sonnekus-Williams Editor in Chief GstaadLife

In the year 2000, the ratio of Swiss retirees (65-plus) to workers (aged 20-64) was 21 percent. This figure will shoot up to 43 percent by 2050 according to the most recent OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) figures published in 2009. Around 58,000 people over the age of 85 lived in Switzerland in 1980 according to statistics produced by OECD. The same organization predict that by 2050, more than 306,000 people of the same age will be enjoying their twilight years in this alpine country. The Swiss population is rapidly ageing, posing potential problems for the country’s economy and a re-think for those planning retirement. Considerate of this the federal government and national parliament have initiated a public

UPFRONT

vote on March 07 2010, the subject being - lower annuity rates or the amounts of money paid out to the retired from second pillar in the pensions system. The net result of this is that there is groundwork being considered that will motivate citizens and residents to continue working beyond the age of 65. A specialist on the topic, Professor George Sheldon from the University of Basel has been noted as saying that the ageing population problem is coming but is not insurmountable. According to his reports, Switzerland is in a good position to absorb the age increase of a specific older workforce as market participation of older age people is high in Switzerland. Apparently fifty-year-olds and over in Switzerland are well skilled compared with most countries and can usually find work. Sheldon’s research backed by OECD statistics show that 50 to 64 year old employment in Switzerland is one of the highest in the western world. I am sure that with the ever increasing utilization of internet communications, video conferenc-

ing, the perpetual improvement of transport systems and the ease of multi platform business interface, will bode well for an intelligence and experience based older sector of the workforce. Switzerland’s numerically manageable population in relation to some of its European neighbors will also be of benefit to finding a suitable solution to the problem by both government and the participating public. This issue of GstaadLife is our last of the winter 2009/ 2010 series. Over the 2 month break we will plan our spring / summer season issues and look forward to bringing it to you once the snows have cleared and the flowers have sprung. I thank all of our readers and advertisers for their support of the now complete winter season of GstaadLife. We have enjoyed an enthusiastic acceptance of our new format, so far and in turn we will continue to improve the content and value the publication for businesses and reader alike. Best wishes

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: Michele Hoffmann Editorial: Anita Moser, Nicole Maron 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

***** GSTAAD PALACE: +41 (0)33 748 50 00, info@palace.ch ***** GRAND HOTEL BELLEVUE: +41 (0)33 748 00 00, info@bellevue-gstaad.ch ***** GRAND HOTEL PARK: +41 (0)33 748 98 00, info@grandhotelpark.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 **** 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 **** Hotel GSTAADERHOF: +41 (0)33 748 63 63, gstaaderhof@gstaad.ch **** 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 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 Bellerive: +41 (0)33 748 88 33, bellerive-gstaad@bluewin.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 *** Hotel RÜtti: +41 (0)33 744 29 21, welcome@hotelruetti.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 Geltenhorn: +41 (0)33 765 30 22, F: +41 (0)33 765 32 31 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

VINTAGE 1945 Tourbillon Pink gold case. Girard-Perregaux automatic mechanical movement. Tourbillon with three gold Bridges.

Boutique GIRARD-PERREGAUX - Promenade - GSTAAD T 033 744 91 30 - email: gstaad@girard-perregaux.ch www.girard-perregaux.com

Friday 19 February 2010 Page 5

In-depth article Photo: Anita Moser

The eight representatives explained the current situation to around 500 people from the Saanenland, the upper and lower Simmental and from the Pays-d‘Enhaut. Disillusion followed the emotional debate. Missing was Erwin Walker.

Is the trauma hospital to remain in the region? The clock is ticking… ADOPTED & TRANSLATED FROM THE ARTICLE BY ANITA MOSER AVS 02.02.10

Recently at the indoor tennis court, representatives informed interested parties of the current situation and background of the hospital location Saanenland-Obersimmental. The aim of the briefing was to primarily bring as many people as possible onto the same page, said Municipality President Aldo Kropf. "The voters of the municipality of Saanen are faced with important questions and decisions," he said. However because the issue is very important regionally, the population of upper Simmental and the Pays-d'Enhaut were also invited. It is estimated that around 500 people attended the meeting. Time is pressing “The time is pressing for a new hospital,” said Bethli Küng. In 2012, the Special Investment Fund (SIF) for the development of new buildings and extensions in general, will be revoked and the regional hospital centers RSZ, would have to pay for the investment. All projects including credit

requests, have to be submitted to the Grand Council no later than before the September 2011 session. In addition, from 2012 all patients can seek treatment at hospitals in any other canton. "So it is equally important that we include the Pays-d'Enhaut in our hospital planning, which again speaks for the site in Saanenmöser," said Bethli Küng. With the adoption of the law on hospital care in 2005 the foundation has been laid that the greater council no longer decide on closures of hospitals, however the government council now do. "The government council has been given the authority to nominate the board of the regional hospital centers passing the leadership on to them. In the knowledge that the two hospitals Saanen and Zweisimmen should be operated as health centers, and also

knowing that the hospital STS AG had decided independently for a new hospital in Saanenmöser, the greater council approved the care planning 2007-2010 in 2007 with 140 votes, unanimously and with no abstentions. Should the government council happen to intervene, it could appeal the greater councils unanimously sanctioned planning report,” warned Bethli Küng. Hospital construction is justified “The continuation of two sites had no economical feasibility,” explained Peter Dolder who shared the view of the STS AG board. “The existing hospitals of Saanen and Zweisimmen are on one hand operationally unfavorable structures, and on the other hand need a medium-term comprehensive rehabilitation. 70 Percent

of the hospitals‘ operating costs are personnel costs,“ informed JeanPierre Beuret, head of the nursing hospital in Zweisimmen. Hospital or no hospital Dr. Christian Reuteler said it promptly, as Fritz Wampfler predicted back in 1992, “it is not about three, two, or one hospital, but about one hospital or no hospital. Health centers are a waste of public funds, the performance of health centers are already better and cheaper in private group practices”. “We focus on the patient,” added Reuteler. "The region needs medical expertise and a trauma hospital with contemporary quality at the right location such as Saanenmöser." Even the ambulance and rescue services could only be orcontinued on Page 7

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In-depth article

Friday 19 February 2010 Page 7

continued from Page 5 ganized at a reasonable standard and price from one location. In a larger catchment area, there are higher numbers of case studies, which in turn require greater medical expertise, which makes the workplace more attractive to doctors and leads to higher standards,” said Reuteler. The Saanen vote is required Saanen voters are required in order to build the new hospital in Saanenmöser. They must agree to the re-classification from an agricultural to a hospital zone (all plots are located in an agricultural zone), as well as to the credit for the purchase of the plot by the municipality of Saanen. Then, the municipal assembly also needs to approve the credit for the development of the plot and approve the release of the plot to the STS AG within the construction law. "The land remains the property of

the inhabitants of the municipality of Saanen," says Kropf. In exchange, the STS AG returns the current plot with the development rights for the hospital, back to the municipality of Saanen and the hospital building is handed over to the community free of charge. "We are working on the exact building schedule," said Aldo Kropf. "We are convinced that a new development is possible in Saanenmöser if we seize the opportunity and do not argue anymore. If we keep on going back and forth, we will run out of time."

around the site of Zweisimmen, rather than on a factual discussion of the current situation.”The Pays-d'Enhaut will be facing the same problem in a few years," said Aldo Kropf to the question whether the influx of patients from neighboring Romandie was realistic. Relevant discussions in this regard formed part of the annual meeting with the respective authorities. Based on these discussions and with the imminent closure of the hospital in Château-d'Oex, it appears that the population of the Pays-d'Enhaut thanks to its proximity to the Saanenland, is rather going to travel to Saanenmöser.

Back at the beginning Everybody agrees that a trauma hospital is essential for the region, as the subsequent discussion showed. Those who had however hoped the information would bring the parties closer together, were disappointed. The votes from the upper and lower Simmental focused exclusively

Opposition from Saanenmöser Criticism also came from Saanenmöser. In contrast to the votes from the neighboring region, it was not directed against the location Saanenmöser, but against the favored location of Bergmatten. Regarding the tra-

de-off land "Gfell", Aldo Kropf said: "It's not that the community does not want a land trade-off. The voters have decided in 2000 that the municipality cannot sell a mountain.” The Board had decided on the location, but not the plot, explains Kropf and reiterated with what decisions the voters of the municipality of Saanen were faced. Self-interest aside The cantons of Valais and Vaud have managed to bring together seven hospitals into one beyond the cantonal boarders. "And we are not able to find a common denominator and a solution between the two valleys," noted Heinz Brand. "There is still much work ahead of us. If we stand together, I am sure that we will make progress." With these words cantonal representative and discussion leader Michael Teuscher, bid farewell to everybody at a half hour before midnight.

Lionel Perrier concert & gala In celebration of their 10th anniversary on February 13, the Lionel Perrier concert and winter gala event took place in the Rougemont church, followed by a gala dinner at the Grand Hotel Park in Gstaad. Photos: Tina Dosot

Monique Hennessy, Mauren Tosic, Paula Schetty

Maestro Michel Sogny, Alessandra Massalieva, Evelyn Pen de Castel

Ingrid Demie, Maestro Sogny, Emanuela de Nova, Oliver Huguet and Yannick Letort

Premier Hotel news

The centenary dream of a young hotel The Grand Hotel Park celebrates its 100th birthday and faces a year full of transformation, events, happenings and, of course, the grand reopening in December when the hotel welcomes you back for the traditional Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. Even though the Grand Hotel Park itself is young, officially built in the late 1980s and reopened in 1990, the hotel’s history allows it to celebrate this important anniversary. The hotel will close on March 7th and reopen mid December, refurbished with a new contemporary design. This design will be unique in modern elegance and reflect the luxurious design of Gstaad’s finest chalets. The spa level of the hotel already reflects this philosophy and so the basement floor will be left untouched; it was redone in 2006 and will be in perfect harmony with the new decoration. All the rooms and suites will be transformed and four Imperial Suites will be built. These suites will be one of a kind in Gstaad: their

approximate size will be between 200m2 and 430m2, featuring different bedrooms, the master bedroom with fireplace, a bathroom with integrated private spa with sauna, hammam and jacuzzi and a treatment room will be at the disposal of the guests. The rest of the building, the lobby, the bars and the restaurant as well as all other public areas will also be delicately redesigned, nevertheless keeping the cosy atmosphere that makes guests want to linger. With respect for nature, tradition and sustainability, the choice of materials used is of high importance : wood and natural wool will primarily be used and fabrics and cloths will be replaced with natural wool. The renovation programme is however not the only thing of great interest this year! One of the great upcoming events is the inauguration of the Grand Hotel Park’s hot air balloon, decorated with the centenary logo of the hotel. We invite everyone to discover with us the beautiful region of Gstaad from up above. We bring back to life this hot air balloon as it also is part of the history of this unique property.

The new Hot-Air Baloon of the Grand Hotel Park.

Despite the fact that the hotel is closed during the summer, the hot

air balloon is available throughout the renovation. The hotel’s very own pilot impatiently awaits his first flight and would be honoured to welcome you on board. If you want to create a private, special memory of the Grand Hotel Park, be our guest: you can take away with you some precious ob-

jects as the hotel will sell some of its accessories to those loyal guests who may wish to keep some remembrance of past times. In the meantime, enjoy the last days of the “old” Grand Hotel Park in order to be welcomed back to the “new” face of the hotel in December of this year.

Grand Hotel Park one-time only sale of goods Take advantage of the unique sale of the Grand Hotel Park in order to buy some memories on http://www.hotelmobiliar.ch. The visit of the bedrooms could be organised with our Executive Housekeeper at 033 748 98 00

Grand Hotel Park · 3780 Gstaad · Suisse Tél. +41 33 748 98 00 · Fax +41 33 748 98 08 info@grandhotelpark.ch · www.grandhotelpark.ch

Friday 19 February 2010 Page 9

LOCAL NEWS

Pessimism on Euro Area Reflections from Saanen bank gross domestic product. The country’s debt is to top 120 percent of the GDP this year, the highest in the Euro-region and twice the limit for adopting the single currency. Beside the already mentioned massive new indebtness, confidence of the financial markets seemed to be additionally distressed by the poor communication policy of the Greek Government. First, the Greek Officials would broadcast on EUROSTAT an indebtness quota of 5 % for the year 2008 of the GDP and would amend it later to 7.7 %. Similar action was taken as the continent’s largest budget deficit for the year 2009 was published. In a couple of different steps and occasions, the quota was amended to 12.5 % of the GDP from originally 3.7 %, as

Photo: zvg

It seems obvious that the finan- gion’s fourth largest economy and cial markets have never been more the country shows higher unempessimistic about the future of the ployment rate and weaker banks European Monetary Union than to- than anywhere else. Spain’s jobless day. Having said that, Spain poses a rate amounts to more than 19 perlooming threat to the Euro-region cent, almost twice the EU average. holding together. Considering it a severe problem Taking the current situation of should Greece go down, it definitely Spain and Greece into consider- would be a real disaster for the Euro ation, we could even face a break- zone, should Spain be going under. up of the Monetary Union in two At the end of last year, the Greek years from now. Government had to amend its new It goes without saying that Trichet indebtness quota for the past year would call it an “absurd hypothesis” 2009, from the orignally forecasted the argument that, for example, 3.7 % to a percentage of 12.50 to Greece could be forced to exit the the GDP. This clearly overshoots the Euro area. fixed cap mutually agreed on in the Currently, all the focus is on Greece. Maastricht Treaty. As a matter of Spain, however, may eventually fact, the Greek budget deficit ran present an even bigger threat to more than four times the Europethe Euro zone, because it is the rean Union limit of 3 percent of the GL-19.02.10 SCC Ad.pdf 1/25/2010 3:26:23 PM

Toni Knecht, Head of Private banking at Saanen Bank already mentioned above. It goes without saying that this did not help to create any additional faith in the Greek Government, as the financial markets clearly did interprete those actions as data manipulations.

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Events Calendar FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19 & APRIL 03 11h00-18h00: Gstaad winter market on the Kapälliplatz with lots of self-made products. More info contact +41 (0)33 744 78 83.

Friday February 19 2010 until Friday March 19 2010

19h00. Accompanied by ski instructors (only if ski slopes to Gstaad is open). Adults SFr 50, children SFr 35. Reservations 033 748 96 12

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 & SUNDAY 28 Rotary Club Gstaad-Saanenland 71.Björnstadlauf Feutersoey: International Meetings every Monday 12h00 FIS race. For info contact +41 (0)33 755 14 49. 22 February 2010 to 8 March 2010: Palace or at the Berghaus Eggli. Hotel Gstaad; 15 March 2010: Krone, Lenk; SUNDAY FEBRUARY 28 & MARCH 07 22 March 2010: Golfhotel, Saanenmöser; 29 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 20 & 26 11h00: Gstaad Snow-Golf day tournament March 2010: Sonnegg, Zweisimmen; from 5 19h30: Gstaad SnowNight at Skischul18h00-23h00: Live Music with Brendan Mc on the Wispile. Starts at 11h00. SFr 85. April to 14 June 2010: Golfhotel, Saanenmöser. gelände Rütti. Show, action & fireworks on the Carthy. Hotel Arc-en-Ciel/Loco’s Bar. FRIDAY, MARCH 05 President: Rot. Ruedi Minnig (033/722 25 23) lighted school area. Rate SFr 10. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19 - 28 20h00: General assembly of the village Program: Rot. Andreas Hurni (033/744 36 28) SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 A wide-ranging program of dancing organization Saanen in the Landhaussaal Lions-Club Gstaad-Saanenland Gstaad Snow-Golf full moon tournament in the Grotte, Schönried. For more info Saanen. All members are welcome to join. Meetings normally each first and third on the Wispile. Begins at 8:30pm, cable car www.grotteparty.ch SUNDAY, MARCH 07 & SATURDAY 13 week of the month on Thursdays, either rides up at 6:45pm, down at 12pm. Fondue FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19 & 20 Chinoise before the tournament & hot wine at the 14h00: Afternoon for elderly people, at 12h00 a.m. for lunch or at 7h00 p.m. for Gstaad High Fly 2010 at Rübeldorf: The only Snowbar. SFr 115. Reservation possible. Contact Gstaad Kirchgemeindehaus. dinner. Meetings in Wellness & Spa-Hotel freestyle motocross, free skiing & snowboarding +41 (0)33 748 96 32. Pick-up service, phone 033 744 53 43. Ermitage-Golf, Schönried, Tel. 033 748 60 60. combined with pyrotechnic effects of its kind in For details and program contact TUESDAY, MARCH 09 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 the midst of the Swiss Alps! www.high-fly.ch Urs Wittwer, president, 033 748 99 11, Gstaad-Schönried Swiss Snr Cup (SSC) SC 20h00: General assembly of the village orSATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20 ganization Gstaad in the Hotel Bernerhof. wittwer-fleurs@bluewin.ch, Bern – Riesenslalom: Horneggli. htttp://gstaad-saanenland.lionsclub.ch JO-Heiti Cup Ski competiton, Gsteig: All members are welcome to join. www.swiss-ski.ch For info contact +41 (0)79 206 24 94. FRIDAY, MARCH 12 & SATURDAY 13 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20 & SUNDAY 21 Important Numbers Gstaad Sledge Tour by full moon: Wispile- Gstaad 4th International Short film Festival Gstaad-Saanenland Exam of rescue dogs: Ambulance 144, Police 117 for artist films: Cine Theatre. For further info: Gsteig. Ascent between 6:45pm and 7:15pm. Everybody is welcome! Contact +41 (0)33 744 Police office 033 356 84 31 www.gstaadfilm.ch Fondue Chinoise. Sledge tour to Gsteig. Post Fire-brigade 118 14 67. bus Gsteig-Gstaad. Adults SFr 65, Kids up to 12 Saanen Hospital 033 748 02 00 WEDNEDAY, FEBRUARY 24 & MARCH 03 years SFr 45. Reservation 033 748 96 32. Château-d‘Oex Hospital 026 923 43 43 19h00 – 22h00: Ski at night on the Wispile, 17 - 23 February 2010 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Car accident service 033 744 88 80 Gstaad. Adults SFr 10, children 10-16yrs from 12pm to midnight. Concert of the Camerata Menuhin, Saanen: Veterinary 033 744 35 31 SFr 5, Children up to 9yrs, free. Information can 19h00 in the Saanen church. Medical emergency 0900 57 67 47 Van Cleef & Arpels change due to weather and snow conditions. Dental emergency 033 748 02 00 Alhambra SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Contact (0)33 748 87 37. Exhibition Cross-country Ski race for visitors in For additional useful numbers please visit Gstaad Grand Hotel Park THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Lauenen: 13h00 at Loipenparadies Rohr. www.gstaadlife.ch/usefulnumbers Fondue party with music and ski-run SFr 10 to SFr 20. Contact Tourist Office For the latest local weather forecast visit Lauenen for info. with torches at Berghaus Eggli. Ascent www.gstaadlife.com/weather

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Craig Youmans, Chemin de Rougepierre 10, 1660 Les Moulins, Switzerland Tel +41 (0)26 924 79 75, Mobile +41 (0)79 310 90 48, Fax +41 (0)26 924 30 60 email: craig.youmans@bluewin.ch

Penthouse apt., 80m2, fireplace, beautiful view, sunny, 2 rooms + sep. kitchen (washer, dryer, dishwasher), 1 WC/bath, 1 WC/shower, garage, long term rental, non smoking, available per May 2010. Furnished. Please contact phone nr. +41 (79) 402 85 01 or e-mail hhestr@bluewin.ch

Classifieds in GstaadLife Place your classified ads in GstaadLife and advertise to the permanent and visiting English speaking public of the Saanenland. Whether it is property for sale or rent, cars, furniture, services or goods for sale. It is worth placing it in GstaadLife classifieds for a small fee. To submit an ad for publication send your text to us through any of the contact points: Email: info@gstaadlife.ch, Fax: 033 744 95 25, Post: Anzeiger von Saanen, PO Box 201, 3780 Gstaad

LOCAL NEWS

Friday 19 February 2010 Page 11

Gondola Rougemont - Videmanette remains closed PRESS RELEASE: AvS 09.02.2010 completely honor. The concept “concentration” is foreseeing investments amounting to SFr 160m by 2018, and envisaging the construction of a new cable car system in 2016. The Round Table seeks to discuss the course of action, which are also taken into account by the board of the BDG AG. Following the inspection of the equipment at the end of January, the BDG AG obtained the recommendation to replace all the main pipes and cogwheels of the 150 gondolas. This would require specially manufactured parts, which would amount to a figure in the region of six-digits. In 2006 the BDG

M E N US PLAISIRS à découvrir à Farb en février-mars 2010 un univers de convergences Exposition

Metka Vergnion, photographe Kira Weber, peintre Marie-Paule Quercy-Momméja, bijoux Farbstrasse 20, Saanen du dimanche 21 février au dimanche 7 mars 2010 de 16 à 19 heures et sur rendez-vous.

AG spent SFr 1.8m to upgrade the cable car system, which was built in1984. Despite the failure of the Rougemont - Videmanette cable cars, the area continues to be available to the winter sport enthusiasts. The mountain restaurant is open and offers its guests local specialities and a splendid summit panorama. The lifts Rubloz and Les Gouilles, as well as the “Va et vient” gondolas up to the mountain restaurant, are operational. The slopes between Eggli and La Videmanette are well prepared - the slope down into the valley to Rougemont is also open. To offer the best possible transfer service, BDG AG pro-

vides a shuttle service. This shuttle runs between the valley stations in Rougemont-Videmanette and the Eggli-Saanen daily from 10h00 until 17h20 in 20-minute intervals. Photo: zvg

Clarification about the next steps of the cable car Rougemont - Videmanette and further options are currently in process. “The safety of our guests come first,” Armon Cantieni, director of Bergbahnen Destination Gstaad AG (BDG AG) said. A decision about the future of the cable car will be made at the earliest on February 15 at the Round Table, together with the municipalities. The outcome of the meeting will be made public the following day (February 16). In terms of the investment program “concentration”, the municipalities have the right to voice their opinion, which the BDG AG wishes to

M E N US PLAISIRS à découvrir à Farb en février-mars 2010 un univers de convergences  Exposition

 Metka Vergnion, photographe  Kira Weber, peintre Marie-Paule Quercy-Momméja, bijoux 

Farbstrasse 20, Saanen du dimanche 21 février au dimanche 7 mars 2010 de 16 à 19 heures et sur rendez-vous.

 

  Renseignements et rendez-vous:  Caroline Freymond  tél. +41 (0)79 456 91 81 Menus Plaisirs tél. +41 (0)33 744 92 42

Renseignements et rendez-vous: Caroline Freymond tél. +41 (0)79 456 91 81 Menus Plaisirs tél. +41 (0)33 744 92 42

   

Advertorial

Montblanc - rising to the “Haute Horlogerie” As a newcomer to the watch industry, Montblanc has gained in record time an excellent reputation. 15 years ago nobody thought it was possible for Montblanc to conquer a place in the Haute Horlogerie. The jump-start occurred in 1997 when Montblanc bought a building in Le Locle which became the Montblanc Montres Manufacture. Montblanc started to build exclusive timepieces in limited edition. Its own develop-

ment of watch movements represented a milestone for entering the Haute Horlogerie as independent manufacturer. To honour the first watch movement with the Montblanc name, the company created a unique limited masterpiece dedicated to Nicolas Rieussec, the inventor of the chronographic mechanism.

Montblanc, Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph – Silicon Escapement

Montblanc in Gstaad

Montblanc TimeWalker Chronograph Automatic

Montblanc has been culturally very active, sponsoring many activities. One of those is the sponsoring of the Gstaad Yacht Club Interclub Ski-Yachting 2010, Friday March 5th and Saturday March 6th. The Menuhin Festival is also an important partner of Montblanc. The event takes place from July 16th to September 5th 2010, hosting more

Montblanc boutiques in Switzerland Gstaad Geneva Crans Lugano Basel Zürich

Chronométrie Piguet, Promenade Place du port 1, face à l’Horloge Fleurie Rue du Prado 12 Via Pretorio 7 Marktplatz 34, im Singerhaus Bahnhofstrasse 25

than 50 classical concerts, thus being one of the most important traditional events in Switzerland. Since Montblanc closed its Boutique in the Hotel Bellevue, we are looking forward to welcoming you in the Chronométrie Piguet, on the Promenade, where you will find exclusively the beautiful products of the Montblanc collection.

Public Report

Friday 19 February 2010 Page 13

Physical defence is the very last resort Adapted & translated FROM the article Avs 5.2.2010 James Otigbah has been working nothing happens here in Gstaad. Do for years as a bodyguard and secu- they feel it is a “safe world” unjusrity specialist. He has now founded tifiably? the company “Excel Security Solu- It is not the place you live in that makes tions AG”. A conversation about se- you a target, but what you represent to curity, video surveillance of public the criminal. Shops that sell high-value places and bodyguard skills. merchandise and certain chalets presI guess nobody better mess with ent worthy risks. A criminal will always you… what fighting techniques do weigh the chance of success versus the risk of being caught. Several Gstaad you master? I practice a technique called “mixed residents, business owners and the Mumartial arts”. It combines the best tech- nicipality of Saanen drew up a security niques from traditional martial arts. concept that foresees the installation What is important to know though is of CCTV cameras. This must mean that that being a security professional en- a lot of people feel less safe than they compasses a lot more than knowing used to. how to defend your client and yourself What do you think about video surphysically. Ideally, it should never reach veillance in public places? this point. The most important skill is to In principle, I think it is a good idea. The be aware of your surroundings in or- essential factor to make video surveilder to anticipate and avoid dangerous lance effective is to design a concept situations altogether. This is not always that combines technology, manpower possible and therefore, the second most and procedures. Installing cameras to important skill is to know how to avoid just track down offenders is of insignificonflict, dissuade a dangerous situa- cant value. The deterrent factor of camtion or an aggressive person with good eras that are not being monitored 24 communication skills and the right at- hours a day, soon looses its effect, once titude. Physical defence is the very last people realise that nobody is reacting immediately to an occurrence. Everyresort. Recently there have been several one uses Monaco as an example of how thefts in boutiques on the Gstaad cameras have reduced the crime rate. Promenade. What do you think Their cameras are a success, because it is commonly known that they are conabout it? Gstaad is changing. There are not many stantly being monitored and that there villages in the world that can boast of is immediate police intervention to any having such a high concentration of suspicious activity. luxury boutiques and multi-million- Did crime increase over the last few Franc chalets in such a small radius. This years here in Gstaad? fact has surely not gone unnoticed by Judging from the number of inquires we receive for alarm system consulcriminals. Local people keep on telling me that tations and by talking to concerned they never lock their doors and that residents; there is definitely a perceived

increase in crime. This could be due to

Do you think that the volume of

the several burglaries and attempted

mandates will be high enough to

burglaries in businesses and chalets last

make a company such as yours

year and the general rise in crime ev-

profitable?

erywhere in the world.

From talking to various Gstaad resi-

You

James Otigbah (left) and Thomas Ummel from Excel Security Services.

have

developed

GSTAAD

dents, locals and business owners, I

WATCH. How does it work?

think the interest in our company and

GSTAAD WATCH is an adapted form of

our services is definitely there. GSTAAD

Neighbourhood Watch from the USA,

WATCH is only one product out of our

where concerned chalet and business

wide range of services. We also offer

owners secure the observation of their

Personal-, Child- and Executive Protec-

premises through a contract with us.

tion to private and corporate clients

It is a pro-active concept that aims to

worldwide; we work together with ar-

prevent crime, rather than a reactive

chitects, drawing up concepts for alarm

system where an intervention takes

systems; we conduct risk assessments

place only after a crime has been com-

and offer security consulting. We also

mitted. GSTAAD WATCH – which by the

conduct background checks on pro-

way is planned to be launched on 1st

spective new employees of our clients.

March 2010 - is a constant and visible

Thanks to our international network,

motorised and foot patrol in designated

we can assist our clients in all their se-

areas around the perimeters of our cli-

curity needs worldwide.

ents’ properties between the hours of

There are countless alarm systems

20.00 h and 06.00 h. Our qualified se-

on the market. How can a good one

curity agents will choose their routes at

be identified?

random, thus making it impossible for

As a general rule, an alarm system has

potential criminals to plan their attacks

to be simple to use. Only systems that

around our patrols. Our team will act as

can easily be switched on and off are

a deterrent to criminals and will chal-

going to be in regular use. If the system

lenge and record suspicious activities.

is too complicated, there is always the

What else does GSTAAD WATCH of-

fear of causing false alarms.

fer?

A good alarm system is a relative defi-

In addition, we offer an intervention

nition. While one client might just want

service for alarm situations, but we will

to switch on the alarm when he goes

also intervene if our clients hear or see

away for a long period of time, another

something suspicious. In order to guar-

client will only feel safe to go to sleep

antee the quickest response possible,

once the alarm is switched on. Al-

we have limited our scope of patrol-

though it may not seem like it, an alarm

ling to the following areas in Gstaad

system is a very personal matter and we

for the time being: Oberbort, Wispile,

therefore think that it is always worth-

Bissen and the village centre. If there is

while to talk to an independent adviser

sufficient interest, we envision extend-

who will identify your needs, evaluate

ing our services to day-time hours and

your property and then recommend

other areas in the region.

the system best suited for you.

Photo: Tine Eisenbeis

James Otigbah has been living in Switzerland for 15 years. He first worked as a security professional for the Hotel Olden and then for the Palace Hotel Gstaad. He then specialised in Executive Protection and Security Management and worked for private families worldwide. Last year, he was certified as CPP (Certified Protection Professional) by ASIS (American Society of Industrial Security). It is the highest recognised certification in the security business. James Otigbah is married and is a father of a daughter. PD

FEATURE / Interiors

FINE ANTIQUES, CONTEMPORARY ART AND DESIGN

Urs von Unger • Kleines Landhaus • Hauptstrasse • Saanen Opening hours Monday – Friday 3 – 6 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. – 1 p.m ./2 p.m. – 6 p.m. or by appointment phone +41 (0)33 744 44 11

Friday 19 February 2010 Page 15

FEATURE / Interiors

Modern or traditional – we help to build your dream-house.

Staub AG · 3780 Gstaad Tel. 033 748 80 40 Fax 033 748 80 49 staub-gstaad@bluewin.ch w w w.staubgstaad.ch

Staub Intérieur In 1904 Johann Staub opened a workshop in the Maladère, in which he executed carpenter work for regional requirements. In 1971 Mrs Elisabeth Staub opened a sales room in Gstaad, and in 1976 moved their interior shop into chalet Madora. The factory is in Feutersoey. This business, which has always been a family-run business, is now run by the fourth generation Staub. Staub manufactures in some cases and sells traditional and modern furniture, interior fittings and custom made kitchens. Included in their furniture range are beautiful individual fine hand-painted detail pieces, which display the absolute mountain experience. Complimenting their furniture choices are home comforts and

fittings such as custom made curtains, cushions, Iranian carpets, a variety of lamps, a wide range of fur throws, mirrors, picture frames and ornaments to put those special touches to your chalet. Staub stocks a variety of the wellknown Swiss brands such as “De Sede”, which is famous for beautiful, high quality upholstery furniture, made with the best leathers found. Further the famous “Bielefelder” brand is stocked at Staub, which is known for interesting and comfortable couches. Further the famous “Meridiani“ brand is stocked at Staub, which is known for a wide variety of furniture. Finally Staub stocks a beautiful and high quality range of bedding from the “Superba” and “Elite” Swiss brands.

FEATURE / Interiors

Rougemont

A ‘Papa Bear’ Chair by Hans Wegner, Denmark, 1950.

A scarce pair of chairs by Jorgen Kastholm & Preben Fabricius, Denmark 1968.

An unusual Unicorn head. Carved wood. Austria, late 19thC.

New Showroom

Former showrooms in London & New York Stock sourced from UK, USA, Sweden, Denmark, Italy, France, Austria & Africa Open every day from 3h00-7h00 pm Rue Principale - 1659 Rougemont Vaud, Switzerland T: +41 26 925 04 44 - M: +41 79 679 24 82

The ejector seat from a 1966 Hawker Hunter.

A coffee table made from a massive slab of 1st growth Northern Californian Redwood. American C.1950’s.

We have a pair of these very rare Carl Zeiss binoculars in stock now. Oculars providing magnification of 35, 58 & 117 times. This early photograph shows the binoculars at the base of the Matterhorn, circa 1912.

Friday 19 February 2010 Page 17

FEATURE / Interiors

Tamara’s Design

Tamara Sessa, Architecte d’intérieur, Diplômée ESAA

Federica Sessa, Décoratrice, Diplômée CEC

Quality, experience, inspiration and competence are words that come to mind when describing the mother and daughter Interior Design duo. Their office and showroom are located in the picturesque village of Rougemont. The strength of Tamara’s Design lies in their longterm understanding of the various “local chalet styles”, ranging from classic to modern.

long list of projects located in the Saanenland and Pays-d'Enhaut.

Federica Sessa, whose father was a well known Italian Architect, is a qualified Interior Designer and her daughter Tamara is a qualified Interior Architect. They opened their first showroom in 1993 and have since been applying their skills to a

Tamara and Federica collaborate with local architects, providing an illustrated proposal of the project. Once agreement is reached, the planning is implemented by adherence to a Swiss-timed schedule and systematic follow-up to ensure that customers get what they want, when they want it. In a region with high expectations, Tamara’s uses only the best from local workmanship to top end soft furnishings and the very best suppliers from around Europe. Past clients have come back to commission projects, which have

included offices, private villas and yachts. The size and scope of the projects undertaken by Tamara's, range

from the small to the very large; but whatever the project, each client is treated with the same utmost respect and receives the same professional service.

Tamara’s Design Place du Village CH-1659 Rougemont Tel.+41 (26) 925 94 00 info@tamarasdesign.com www.tamarasdesign.com

FEATURE / Interiors

Cela Solutions from Röthlisberger

The slogan for Cela solutions is “We hide everything”. This is quite a fitting description for a business that creates and realizes shade awnings that literally disappear into the

woodwork of a chalet. Cela in Latin means hidden or concealed and this is exactly what the purpose of the Cela Awning system is. The system, ideally considered during the planning and pre construction process of a chalet, is built into the base structure of the chalet. Electrically controlled it opens a panel in the woodwork to reveal a shade awning which unfurls to a desired

extent once again through electrical command. Röthlisberger Inneneinrichtungen AG & ACD Engineering AG together, created the business Cela!Solutions which has applied for the patent of the system. Together, they invented this fashionable and modern system and are confident that it will be well appreciated by the chalet lover. The most important factor

Röthlisberger has existed for more than 70 years. It is a family-run business, conveniently situated in the main road, Dorfstrasse, in Saanen. Röthlisberger has evolved over the years to being a trusted AG establishment. This one-stop shop is a interiorInneneinrichtungen design and decoration CH-3792 Saanen place where you can find everything from carpets & parquet flooring, beautiful curtains, upholstery, accessories, to blinds and awTel.bedding, +41(0)33 744 15 91 Faxyour +41(0)33 38a wide, fashionable and high quality nings for home. 744 They 72 have selection of material and fabric. With a consultative approach to their info@roethlisberger-ag.com customers Röthlisberger offers innumerable possibilities and sound www.roethlisberger-ag.com professional advice. Röthlisberger Inneneinrichtungen AG Dorfstrasse 45, CH-3792 Saanen Tel. +41 33 744 15 91, Fax + 41 33 744 72 38 www.roethlisberger-ag.com, info@roethlisberger-ag.com

to bear in mind is that one has to include such a system when plans get drawn up with your architect, as this is the easiest and best option. The system can in some cases also be fitted to an existing chalet, but this depends from case to case. For more information, please contact Mr. Stefan Ryter Mobile +41 (0)79 335 90 68 www.cela-solutions.com

Friday 19 February 2010 Page 19

LOCAL NEWS

Gstaad bypass road construction works ADOPTED & TRANSLATED FROM THE ARTICLE BY NICOLE MARON AVS 02.02.10 Twelve years have passed since the con-

stronger layer will be applied. In terms

the Bahnhofstrasse-Suter street, cross-

ect manager of the cantonal Construc-

struction of the bypass road Gstaad was

of the traffic effect whilst the work

ing the promenade at the viaduct.

tion Authority. Moreover, this surface is

completed. Now 1’000 meters of the

is undertaken: Traffic from north to

road has to be re-surfaced. The tun-

south (Schützen-roundabout direction,

This time, a harder surface is used

cm, it will be 20.5 cm thick - a retrofit,

nel and four roundabouts also need

indoor-pool-roundabout) will be able

The project entails removing the exist-

corresponding to the local conditions

attention. From early April 2010 to

to drive in a single lane, in the opposite

ing surface and replacing it with an en-

and loads.

early July 2010 a harder surface with a

direction; the traffic will be diverted via

tirely new surface. “Normally, such work

much thicker than before: instead of 13

Photo: Nicole Maron

From Dubi-roundabout to the Würsten-roundabout, the surface of the bypass road must be fully restored.

should be necessary only after about 25

The tunnel gets a new coat of paint

years. The rapid wear and tear is proba-

and SOS boxes

bly due to the high load the surface has

Not only is the road inside the tunnel

endured over the past 12 years. The road

brought back to its original state – the

is often driven by vehicles with chains or

walls will also receive a fresh coat of

spikes, and this of course leaves traces.

paint. “It is going to be brighter and

In order for the road to last longer this

friendlier,” promises Herrmann. Slight

time, an alternate surface will be used:

adjustments in the safety standards

“It is a synthetic S-surface, which is

are necessary. “Of most concern is the

particularly resistant, yet not brittle and

signage and the SOS boxes, which are

doesn’t crack,” said Jürg Herrmann, proj-

directly connected to the police.”

Lauenen Post ADOPTED & TRANSLATED FROM THE ARTICLE BY ANITA MOSER AVS 29.01.10 Lauenen receives a postal agency from June 2010. The couple, Bernhard and Franziska Annen-Bettler has agreed to integrate the agency into their grocery store. The President of the Municipality Ruedi Trachsel, is on one hand happy with the solution, but on the other hand also disappointed. After the Post decided to close the Post office in Lauenen, the authorities and the public discussed pos-

sible alternatives in October, i.e. a “post agency” or “home-service” and have reluctantly agreed on an agency. Post Agency Letters and parcels can be posted and collected, deposits made and stamps purchased at the postal agency. From February 01, in addition to the PostCard, the ECCard will also be accepted. For security

reasons cash deposits are not accepted and cash withdrawals are only limited. At the end of May the post will install the necessary equipment and the team will be trained. Joy and disappointment “This is a good solution,” says Ruedi Trachsel. At the same time it was a great disappointment over the loss of a Post Office amongst the

population and within the authority. “Once a whole family was able to live from the Post Office,” says Trachsel. Delivery of post still open The delivery of the post has not been finalized. It is not only about reasonable delivery times, but also about finding an environmentally friendly solution and preserving jobs in the community.

Readers Letter Relating to the article in Gstaad Life Friday 29.01.10 “Gstaad to get a new riding center.“ Dear Editorial Team Thank you for writing about the new riding center which is to be built on the existing site. There are a few important facts that have not been reported correctly. Marcel Bach will be the first President of a yet to be formed foundation not an AG, or limited company.

The donors of the money to build the center are not just two parties, but several people that will also be members of the future foundation. The municipality of Saanen is also expected to contribute towards the construction costs of the riding center, subject to approval of the sovereign, e.g. at a vote session of

the “Grosse Gemeinde”. There will only be 27 boxes for stabling horses, not 40. The Riding Center Gstaad has been rented and managed by Erica and Ernst Voegeli for over five years not just 3 years. (Ernst Voegeli is a prominent member of the Swiss Riding scene and heads the devel-

opment of the syllabus of the Swiss horse sport association for the equestrian sport, classical riding. He is a National A judge in dressage and show jumping, just to mention a few of his credentials. This just for your information. Yours sincerely, Ruth von Siebenthal Hung

LOCAL NEWS

Gstaad Grand Hotel Park, now with ISO “seal of approval” PRESS RELEASE The Grand Hotel Park in Gstaad was awarded the ISO-certificate 9001:2008 by the Swiss Association for Quality and Management Systems (SQS). The certificate was handed over by Alfred Urfer who is in charge of SQS as part of a celebration. Director Jean-Yves Blatt thanked around 200 employees for the successful implementation of and now certified quality

management system, which was jointly developed over the past 14 months. To achieve the ISO certification, the Grand Hotel Park sought the help of the hotel industry expert ’Weiss Management Systems AG’. “All the wheels move at the same time - totally in sync,” says director of Quality, Désirée Gabriel re-

ferring to the project name choice. “It is necessary in order to achieve a good co-ordination between all the departments.”

Management Systems (SQS) on a regular basis. After receiving the ISO 9001:2008 certificate, it’s only a small formality to get the 3 Q’s - the highest “Quality-Seal of approval” awarded by the Swiss Tourism association. Being able to display the familiar “Q’s” at the hotel entrance, is almost a must these days among the five-star hotels, says Blatt.

SQS certifies quality What was put on paper will be put into practice by each individual and therefore warrant the certification, which is controlled by the Swiss Association for Quality and

Book presentation “Faszination historische Treicheln und Saanerglocken “ ADOPTED & TRANSLATED FROM THE ARTICLE BY ANITA MOSER AVS 02.02.10 bells in a very special kind of way: she framed the event with the musical sound of the bells. From idea to realization After the last sounds died away, Stephan Jaggi, President of the museum of Saanen, brought the audience back to reality. “The path

to the realization of the book was not so easy,” he said. The book was meant to be published in the anniversary year. “The spirit was there, but not the money,” Jaggi commented on the words from the play “money and spirit”. However, sponsors have been found and they will cover about half of the costs. The

A fascinating book The book has succeeded to capture the craft of making “treichels” and bells, as well as its development, and to echo its authenticity and love, says enthused “godfather” von Siebenthal. Schopfer bells as instruments Magdalena Schatzmann, a hobby bio-farmer, made a feature of the

other half is hoped to be covered by the money generated from the sales of the book. Jaggi expressed special thanks to the authors Hannes Moor, Jean-Pierre Bovet, Denis Buchs, Robert Schwaller, Roland Neuhaus and Johanna K. Thompson, and to Ruth Knutti, who also collaborated on the book. Photo: Anita Moser

The anniversary celebrations marking the 10th anniversary of the museum have been shaped by the unique exhibition of historical “treicheln” and Saaner bells. On Saturday, the book with the same name was presented. In a brief flashback, Erich von Siebenthal spoke about the history of the forging of “treicheln”, the bell foundry, the manufacturing of the leather belts in general and on the local bell foundry Schopfer, which was founded in 1819 by Samuel Schopfer.

The exhibition “Faszination historische Treicheln und Saanerglocken” at the Landscape Museum of Saanen is open until April 04. Opening times: 14h00 until 17h00, closed on Mondays.

Honored for their commitments were: Ruth Knutti, Steffi Berchten (her husband, the late honorary president Hans Berchten, originated the idea for the exhibition), Stephan Jaggi, Hannes Moor, Jean-Claude Bovet and Denis Buchs.

The book with the same name costs SFr 50 and is available in all bookstores in the Saanenland and at the Museum. Tel 033 744 79 88 www.museum-saanen.ch

Column

Friday 19 February 2010 Page 21

The Glitter, the Gays BY MANDOLYNA THEODORACOPULOS

The dinner at Harry’s Bar was in honor of, Tom Ford, after the London premiere of his film, A Single Man. I was seated between, Carlos Souza, a charming Brazilian jeweler part of Valentino’s entourage, and Jon Kortajarena, one of the film’s sexy actors on Madonna’s to-do list, ranked by Forbes as the world’s eighth most successful male model. I asked him about his career, his other interests, and even spoke to him in his native Spanish, but he had no interest in me, or in feigning interest, opting instead to chainsmoke Marlboro reds elsewhere.

Toward the end of the evening I found myself speaking to the film’s star, Colin Firth, and his enchanting wife, Livia. Success at last. An actor, and a gent, and an apparently normal person capable of a brief exchange. I nervously babbled on about how I had seen his colleagues revere him to excess for his charitable work on some English award show. He didn’t walk away. Then I thought, more flattery, maybe that wasn’t enough. I said he was infinitely watchable. He turned to his wife and asked her if she found him infinitely watchable. That lead absolutely nowhere, so I congratulated him on the film, and he thanked me for coming. This time, I walked away. But just when I thought things couldn’t get any better, Tom Ford took my hand in both of his, and looked me in the eyes as if I were the only woman in the world he wanted to go to bed with. My persistence was really paying off now.

This was the first time I have ever been fully acknowledged by a famous person. More nervous chatter flew out of my mouth, something about how my dinner companions had all seen the movie multiple times, and how I would go see it again and again. He smiled, all the while looking deeply into my eyes. Like heroin, one sniff, and I was hooked… The fuss over Ford is definitely merited. He must be a zen master. His grace and beauty alone make him a megastar. But the list goes on of course, and Ford has many accomplishments, and talents to his credit, including A Single Man. Ford wrote, directed, and financed the film. Based on a Christopher Isherwood story, A Single Man is, as one might imagine, an aesthete’s dream, reminiscent of the 1967 hit, The Graduate. Ford’s interpretation of 1960s Los Angeles is deeply glamorous. For anyone who doesn’t know the city well, one is transported. The air, the light, and the loneliness of L.A. comes right off the screen. Ford’s measured personal nature is a powerful force in the movie’s rhythm, and he uses slow-motion to help the audience feel the weight a depressed person bears in daily life. The beat picks up with a deliciously macabre and humorous scene where Firth’s character, George, attempts to take his own life. This is interrupted by a telephone call from Julianne Moore’s, Charley, who lives an equally sad yet stylish life. She plays his best-friend, and former lover impeccably. But Moore’s English accent is imperfect. It is only slightly improved since her previous attempt in The End of the Affair, and proves to be totally dis-

tracting from an otherwise captivating experience. The number of homo-erotic scenes throughout the film may be offputting for some, though the story speaks more to the isolation within us all than to the life. That night at Harry’s Bar Nicky Haslam bemoaned homosexuality. “Being gay is so common, I can’t stand it,” he said. He is anything but an ordinary gay. So too, Ford, who is irrefutably unique. Along with his debut film, and my brief encounters with cordial superstars, it was an exceptional evening indeed. Photo: joexx / photocase.com

An invitation to a Vanity Fair dinner is not a bad one to have, though the very thought of having to communicate with famous and fabulous people makes me twitchy. Hollywood types really only like powerful people, and few of them are capable of polite conversation with individuals they don’t know. The conversation usually goes something like this: “Hello, I’m Mandolyna…” At this point the star usually produces an awkward smile, and walks away. But this night was going to be different, I said to myself. I was going to inquire and flatter the stars into a little dialogue. After all, I had been included in this intimate affair, I must have something to offer.

This lackluster seduction was just a small obstacle on my climb to success with the glitterati, but no twenty-four year old model was going to ruin my plan. I made my way over to Graydon Carter’s table to check on my walker for the evening, the esteemed writer, William Shawcross. I had much more success with this lot, but then, most of them were not actors, and people over forty are much easier to talk to than many of my peers. From my new perch at Graydon’s table I chatted with William, and my new besty, Liz Porter, from House & Garden, while peering into the lives of people like Thandie Newton, Brian Ferry, Guy Ritchie, Elle MacPherson, Mario Testino, and Kate Moss.

CY CMY

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