A new agreement between the Monegasque government and Monaco Telecom
The Monaco Government and Monaco Telecom, the national operator in the Principality in which Cable & Wireless has a majority holding, have just come to an agreement to offer local clients, particularly companies, a wider and more attractively priced range of services. This was the subject of the announcement by Robert Calcagno, Government Counsellor for the Environment, Equipment and Urban Planning, Gilles Tonelli, Government Counsellor for the Economy and Finance, and Mr Denis Martin, Monaco Telecom’s CEO on 28th September.
The agreement signed for a three-year period is the expression of a desire to reinforce competitiveness. 4.5 million euros per year will be invested by the State, which hopes to give new impetus to Telecom and therefore stimulate the growth of the local economy.
Rates will be reduced for companies from 1st October, for landlines, mobile phones, Internet and data (a reduction of 20 to 41.7% depending on the type of communication). For example, for mobile phones, Monaco Telecom’s client companies will see all outgoing calls made within Europe drop from 1 euro to 59 cents per minute. As far as individuals are concerned, the main changes include a 40% decrease for calls made on a mobile to the European region and a "real" 15 Mbps. Last but not least, free Wifi access in public spaces is now available for the public. Six hotspots are already offering this free service (Port Hercule, the station square, place des Moulins, the Heliport, Princess Antoinette park and the square in front of Decathlon) and five others are currently under consideration.
The government has no intention of stopping there as far as new technologies are concerned and is planning to develop video on demand services and DSL television by the end of 2008.
Safer driving thanks to the “Light and Vision” days
The Monegasque Road Safety Department is maximising its efforts to get drivers to travel in safety. With winter and shorter days on the horizon, drivers are being given the opportunity to have their lights checked free of charge. This special operation called “Light and Vision Days” will begin on 1st October 2007.
For the 11th year running, the Monegasque Road Safety Stand will be set up in Monaco on Quai Antoine 1er, just after the Quai des Artistes in front of the gallery, from 1st to 5th October and from 15th to 19th October. From 9 a.m. to midday and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., a police officer will carry out tests not only to check whether the headlights are in order, but also the wear on tyres and to make sure the windscreen wipers are working correctly. Two technicians will also be available to make any necessary adjustments. Should any faulty bulbs or windscreen wipers be detected, drivers will be offered the chance to have them bought and installed for them. “We are concerned to check that everything is okay, not to hand out fines”, Fernand Hilaire, Secretary General of the Monegasque Road Safety Department points out. In 2006, 65% of all cars checked needed to have some work carried out by a technician.
This year, the operation “Light and Vision” is going one step further, by offering reflex tests and blood alcohol level tests. “Thanks to a Road Safety software programme, a simulation can be carried out. Depending on various criteria (age, gender, the individual’s habits as far as alcohol consumption is concerned), the blood alcohol level, but more importantly, the time necessary to eliminate it and to drive without any risk, can be calculated”, explains Fernand Hilaire.
Last year, the Monegasque Road Safety Department launched two similar operations in the Principality, with the installation of a “Caravan” (demonstration on how to free victims from a car wreckage by fire-fighters, first aid measures conducted by the Red Cross…) and an information campaign on the dangers of driving bikes in one of Monaco’s major firms. “With one death a week, the Alpes-Maritimes holds a dismal record as far as motorcycling is concerned”, points out the Secretary General. The Monegasque Road Safety Department, which works in close collaboration with the French Road Safety Department and the Prefecture des Alpes Maritimes, is also launching an awareness campaign aimed at motorcyclists, within the framework of the next Telethon.
“The Grace Kelly Years” exhibition
Don’t waste time ! You only have a few more days left to visit “The Grace Kelly Years” exhibition on display at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco until 23rd September. On Saturday 15th September, Monegasques will even be able to visit the exhibition free of charge, from 10:00 to 22:00, where they will rediscover the universe of Princess Grace who died 25 years ago.
The event has already attracted 103,000 visitors – a record breaker. That figure is higher than the number of visitors to the “Saint Petersburg” exhibition (63,000 visitors) organised two years ago at the Grimaldi Forum. One of the strengths and novel features of this homage to Princess Grace are the never-before-seen films that are being screened, notably thanks to considerable work carried out by the Monaco Audiovisual Archives.
Electric bikes are gaining in popularity in Monaco
The Monaco Government and the association MC2D, who jointly introduced the free hire of power assisted bikes in public car parks last November, have just given the operation a new boost. By providing a greater number (twenty in all compared to just eight at the beginning) of more modern bikes. The aim is to encourage as many people as possible to leave their cars in the car park in favour of the bicycle for short trips into town.
All you need to do is to pick up one of the blue bikes available from the car parks (see below). Once the formalities have been completed, you’ll be able to enjoy the pleasure of riding through the traffic jams in the Principality. Tested route: the Grand Prix circuit. Thanks to the power-assisted system, riding up avenue d’Ostende towards the Monte Carlo district is no longer an uphill struggle! You can even enjoy the scenery around you.
Muse in concert on 12th July at 7 p.m. Louis II Stadium
On Thursday 12th July 2007, the whole of the Principality will be brought together by music. Muse, the famous rock/pop group will be giving a live performance on a stage, specifically designed for the event, on the field of the Louise II Stadium.
The group, made up of Matthew James Bellamy (singer and guitarist), Christopher Tony Wolstenholme (bass guitarist) and Dominic James Howard (drummer), shot to a dazzling success in the late 90s and captured the hearts of thousands of fans all over the world, including Monaco. During the concert, organised by Monaco Live Production (Le Roi Soleil), the trio will be performing, among other songs, “Starlight”, the hit single from their latest album “Black Holes and Revelations”. In addition, the groups “Second Sex” and the “Kaiser Chiefs” will play during the first half of the show.
Monegasques made aware of environmental issues at stake
"Monacology”, the Monegasque awareness week regarding the Environment, is being held on quai Antoine I until Sunday 10th June. Thanks to the third edition of this event, placed under the high patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II, thirty or so associations and institutions have had the opportunity of making themselves known by means of activities, exhibitions and events relating to the protection of nature.
The event was initiated by the association Act for Nature and the bar/restaurant Stars'n’Bars, and has the support of the Albert II Foundation, the associations MC2D, SOS Grand Bleu, the Bird Protection League, the Department for International Cooperation of Monaco and the Ramoge Organisation.
“Repotting” and “archaeological excavation” workshops are on the programme this year for children thanks to the co-operation of the Exotic Garden and the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology. As for the grown-ups, they will be able to have a taster session in ceramics or learn to make a “prehistoric” fire… Permanent exhibitions are also on the programme: “Climate change sustained by Man since his arrival in Europe”, “Expedition to Mongolia” and “Our birds and Africa”. Ecosys will also be selling fair trade products and be organising a tombola.
Access to the Monacology village is free for members of the public on Friday 8th June from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 9th June from midday to midnight and Sunday 10th June from midday to 5 p.m.
Reveries and roses…
Wonderful scents wafting in the air amid a majestic setting, designed by the landscape architect, Jean Mus, the “Rêveries sur les Jardins” celebrated its 10th anniversary recalling the 40 years of the “International Bouquet Competition”.
Various varieties of rose bush were showcased on the weekend of 12th-13th May with special focus on the “Garden Club of Monaco” rose. This flower was specifically created by Meilland to celebrate this special anniversary date and to pay tribute to Princess Grace, who founded the Garden Club in 1968.
As far as the “deco” was concerned, regular visitors to the show were able to check out the Marrakech Lounge featuring typical items from Moroccan lifestyle: garden furniture, lamps, wrought iron screens...and mint tea. Tunisian craftwork was also on display with a selection of items dedicated to well-being (towels, baskets, linen, straw hats…). Also on show were pottery and mosaics by the artist Bénédicte M. together with large designer vases in brushed metal by F.B. Arts.
Among the gazebos and climbing rose bushes, garden centres from all over the Riviera exhibited exuberant plants and cactii compositions, whilst a “plant clinic” offered a free diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Two book signing sessions took place: one on Saturday at 2.30 p.m. with Louisa Jones, the author of “Un art de vivre au jardin: les jardins provençaux de Michel Semini” and the other on Sunday at 3 p.m. with Jean Mus.
Following the children’s bouquet competition the previous week in the Exotic Garden of Monaco, it was now the turn of the grown-ups to show off their originality and ingenuity. For the 40th edition, 135 competitors made their best efforts to charm the two panels of judges of the International Bouquet Competition: one “professional” panel and the other a “special” panel presided over by H.R.H. the Princess of Hanover. And to conclude this special anniversary with a flourish, the Garden Club presented a retrospective of photos dedicated to all the prior competitions.
Official opening of “Villa Speranza-Albert II” by the Prince
Created on the initiative of the Monaco Government Department of Social Affairs and Health and the Monegasque Red Cross, supported by the Monaco City Council, the DASS and the Order of Malta, Villa Speranza Albert II is a day centre for individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s or similar diseases (cognitive behavioural disorders).
Officially unveiled by H.S.H. Prince Albert II during a ceremony in which the Sovereign Prince paid tribute to Mr Denis Ravera, Counsellor for Social Affairs and Health, who sadly passed away last week, this new 3 storey functional unit housed in a former private mansion in avenue Bel Respiro, meets a public health need within the geriatric and psychiatric areas.
Patients who will be accommodated in the Centre from Wednesday 25th April suffer from concentration problems, loss of memory, loss of intellectual ability and are unable to carry out everyday tasks.
The goal of the care centre is also to prevent families with a relative suffering from such disorders from becoming exhausted. The Centre offers such patients hotel services (accommodation, catering) as well as special activities such as memory workshops, music therapy, board games, group workshops, various entertainment and even outings. All patients will receive a tailor-made and individual action plan.
Composed of a team of ten staff managed by Doctor Alain Pesce (Head of the Geriatric Unit at the CHPG and Director of the Centre) and Mr Philippe Migliasso (Health Officer), the centre also has a psychologist, a speech therapist and an occupational therapist. The Centre will be able to accommodate 15 patients a day, preferably for a whole day, from Wednesday 25th April 2007, the official opening date.
Meeting between NGOs and the Government
On Tuesday 20th March 18 associations took part in the 12th meeting organised by the Government to give an account on action currently in progress and to present their new projects. This yearly meeting, organised in the Ministry of State by the Department for International Cooperation, is aimed at making the activities of each NGO more transparent and to generate synergies between them.
4.5 million euros. Such is the amount of public aid for development contributed by the Department for International Cooperation in 2007 and of which a part is funding 12 NGO projects in four areas: health/social, education, the environment and the battle against poverty. This amount, which has increased by 30% compared to the 2005 budget, should double within the next 3 to 4 years.
In practical terms, by financing certain NGO programmes, the Department for international cooperation gets involved with action carried out by various associations without interfering in the actual management of the projects. In return, the NGOs receive invaluable logistics support vis-à-vis their relations with the local government and are able to keep contact with those involved in the projects.
Twelve associations are currently concerned with this aid for programmes undertaken primarily in Western Africa, but also in Indonesia and countries such as Morocco, Ethiopia, Brazil and Madagascar. In Niger, for example, Caap Afrika has launched a training course for surgeons so that they are able to treat certain pathologies in their countries. The project, although starting small at the outset, has escalated and doctors are regularly received in Monaco for training purposes. In fact, the Nigerian Ministry of Health is in contact with the Department for International Cooperation in order to obtain aid targeted according to the needs of the population.
Other efforts are underway for the associations Act for Nature and Fight Aids in Madagascar: one is devoted to the protection of the endemic lemur and to raise the awareness of the local populations with regard to its conservation; the second provides aid to purchase medicine, provide meals and acquire computer hardware. Both are assisted by the Monaco Consulate in Madagascar to get the funds to those in need. These measures should reduce operating costs for the associations and enable them to attribute more money for action in the field.
Prince Albert II visits Fontvieille real estate programme
Prince Albert II visited part of the real estate programme in Zone A of Fontivieille on Tuesday 6th March including the first block of state apartments to be delivered at the end of March, the Monegasque Red Cross future crèche and the future Princess Stéphanie Youth Centre.
The first set of state lodgings include six blocks from A to F for a total 55 2-roomed flats, 48 3-roomed flats, 42 4-roomed flats and 4 5-roomed flats. A car park on the lower ground level will boast 470 car spaces, 2/3 of which will be reserved for residents, for the needs of the crèche and the youth centre, leaving 1/3 for public parking.
The second phase includes an additional 50 apartments that are due to delivered by the end of 2007.
The programme also features:
- new premises for the Monegasque Red Cross crèche: the interior will occupy 1188 m2 and the exterior 570 m2 and will be able to accommodate 45 children in the crèche and 45 children in the after-school centre; - the new Princess Stéphanie Youth Centre. The premises, measuring a total surface area of 710 m2, have been built on the underground level of the paved garden around a patio covered by a removable roof.
The visit highlighted the keen interest H.S.H the Sovereign Prince holds for keeping track of the social and housing policies implemented by his Government.
Scientific and technical committee meeting
For the first time the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation’s scientific and technical committee met on Friday 16th February in Monaco in the presence of Prince Albert II. The purpose of this first meeting was to choose the projects that will receive support in 2007. The twelve members of the Committee (including Yann Arthus Bertrand, Jean-Louis Etienne) and His Serene Highness began examining the 150 applications that had been sent to them. The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation has already backed nine projects amongst which: the energy evaluation of biogas in Punta Arenas, the plan to restore Bonelli’s Eagle (one of the most endangered birds of prey, of which there are only 28 pairs left in France) and the launch of Clean Water, a company whose main activity is water desalinisation The next meeting of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation’s scientific and technical committee will be held in June.
In Monaco: a self-sufficiency programme in aid of the over 60s
Since 1st January, anyone over the age of 60 and with a loss of autonomy living in the Principality can ask to be considered for the Self-Sufficiency Programme. This tailor-made aid is aimed at enabling the elderly to deal with the costs incurred through loss of autonomy, both at home and in residential homes. Nearly 500 requests are expected in 2007. Action in aid of the elderly is one of the Government’s priorities and they have decided to allocate 1.5 million euros to the self-sufficiency programme.
In practical terms, the elderly individual or a member of his/her family should fetch an application form from the Gerontological Co-ordination Centre, which is responsible for evaluating the degree of loss of autonomy. This task is entrusted to the medico-social team and within fifteen days following the receipt of an application, they make a home visit to the elderly person concerned and establish an individual benefit plan.
Once it has been drawn up, the benefit plan is calculated and the amount of the self-sufficiency programme modulated according to the revenue of the applicant. This figure is used to pay for service providers directly (auxiliaries, home helps…) either employed by the individual or provided by the Town Council, Associations or the permanent or temporary residential home.
All those taking part in the implementation of the benefit plan must adhere to a quality charter that guarantees the quality of services provided. An additional guarantee for services considered, according to the Monegasque Government, “above those provided in other countries of Europe”.
A new team for the Junior Chamber International of Monaco
The Junior Chamber International of Monaco recently unveiled its new team presided over by Ana Wiscour-Conter. To help carry projects for 2007 through to a successful conclusion, the President will be assisted by Iñigo Lopez de la Osa, Vice-president for "Development", Emilie Mazza, “International” Vice-president, Florence Farhang, Vice-president for "Training", Kevin Hin, Vice-president for the "Programme", Béatrice Boisson, Vice-president for the "Interior", Virginie Soutzo, President for "Local Organisation Monte-Carlo", Alexandre Tomasini, Director "National Business Network", Laurence Pedroni, Secretary General, Sihem Jarrar, treasurer, Pascal Granero, President 2006 and Marina Mazza, head of communications.
The Imagina Trade Show in Monaco from 31st January to 2nd February 2007
Imagina, the digital image Festival, opens its doors on Wednesday 31st January in the Grimaldi Forum Monaco. David Tomatis, Executive Vice-President of Monaco Mediax, reviews the event.
Who is Imagina aimed at ?
David Tomatis: Imagina is aimed exclusively at professionals such as producers, directors, creators of special effects and managers of architectural firms, as well as technical managers of local authorities. We had to reinvent the whole show, which at the beginning was the forerunner for all matters linked to 3D images – and which today is merely commonplace. Thanks to the support of the Monaco Government and our president, in addition to the support of H.S.H. Prince Albert II, Imagina has repositioned itself.
Within the fair, visitors can now find the European 3D visual display Forum, which is focused on imaging and 3D simulation technologies, used in the building, urban planning and landscape industries. Some of the top names in industry are taking part in Imagina, including HP, Autodesk, IBM, Vizmaster, Dell, Bionatics ... We are expecting over 2000 participants.
Has digital technology reached its maturity?
D. T. : Digital technology has shown its full capability in everyday applications, with for instance the convergence of internet/television/mobile and all the declinations that lead on from that. Interactivity and its applications have enabled new communications methods to emerge such as online videos and blogs… It is still difficult to imagine how digital technology will revolutionize our behaviour in the future.
What will the high points of the 2007 edition be?
D. T. : High-level conferences are on the programme that feature key figures including Rob Coleman, director of special effects for the last two « Star Wars » films, but there will also be a world preview presentation of “Cryengine” technology which incorporates the technology used in video games for architectural and urban planning purposes. As every year, an international competition will be held – the “Imagina Awards” in which all American and European studios, schools and universities take part.
International Circus Festival January 18-28, 2007
For many years the circus has been known for its ability to brighten up the faces and spirits of adults and children alike. In his childhood, H.S.H. Prince Rainier was fascinated with the circus world. It is for this reason that in 1974, he founded the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival to showcase the world’s greatest Big Top performers. Each year hundreds of acts request to be a part of this weeklong ceremony, during which the two best performances are crowned with the coveted Gold and Silver Clown awards. Every year in January, the event features amazing animal acts, uproarious comedic performances, and masterfully choreographed acrobatic feats. Each act is judged on its technical difficulty and creativity by a panel composed of seasoned circus professionals from around the world. Presiding over the panel, H.S.H. Prince Albert II and his Sister, H.S.H. Princess Stephanie, traditionally open the festivities.
Monte-Carlo Rally January 18-21, 2007
In 1911 at the height of the rivalry between two famous seaside towns it began: Nice and Monte-Carlo. The former organized its carnival which attracted a rich clientele to its casinos and so Monaco decided to organize an automobile rally on the same lines as the celebrated Italian Cycle Rally, with departure points in different European towns, converging on Monaco. This event was to take place in January, as a way of showing that the climate of the Principality at this time of year was exceptionally mild. Today, two men are considered to be the founders of this rally: Gabriel Vialon and Antony Noghes. The Societe des Bains de Mer financed the event, which attracted only 23 participants in its first year. The Monte-Carlo Rally was born!
The 2007 Monte-Carlo Travel Market on January 12-14, 2007
The Third Annual Monte-Carlo Travel Market will be held in the Principality of Monaco this January 12-14, 2007. Representatives from the world’s top travel agencies, tour operators and affiliated products and services are invited to participate in this unique event. Meet and develop business relations with: Event organizers take care of every detail from limousine transfers to the fully furnished elegant exhibition space. For details, please visit: www.monte-carlo-travel-market.com. For an application form please visit www.monte-carlo-travel-market.com/application_form_2007.html.
Monaco Dance Forum December 7-16, 2006
Now in its 4th season, the Monaco International Dance Biennial is again proud to renew its commitment to the public by inviting artists from Mozambique, Burkina Faso, the United States, France, Quebec, New Caledonia, Italy, and Spain for eight days of encounters, performances and festivities in the Principality.
Twenty-four companies will make the journey to Monaco, offering workshops in contemporary African and Indian dance, and hip hop. One of the most important international gatherings for professionals in Digital Dance, Monaco Dance Forum also has a role in familiarizing the public with these technologies and new esthetics by proposing workshops, guided tours and encounters with artists.
Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival from November 30 through December 3, 2006
From November 30 through to December 3, 2006, the sweet sounds of jazz in all its forms are sure to delight…from brilliant pianists like Jamaica’s Monty Alexander and the USA’s Chick Corea (a creator of fusion jazz and contemporary of Miles Davis), to singer Randy Crawford and the multi-instrumentalist Yusef Lateef. Rounding out the bill, are concerts with the Chicago Blues Festival and a special performance featuring singer-guitarist Raul Midon.
Other jazz-related and inspired events include post-concert gatherings at the Bar Américain, gospel and jazz band fanfares on Sunday on the Place du Casino, New-Orleans-style entertainment and menu at the Café de Paris, “Jazz Live” exhibition of paintings and photos in the Atrium of the Casino de Monte-Carlo. For four days, all of Monte-Carlo will be living to the tempo of jazz!
Monégasque National day on November 19, 2006
On November 19th, the Principality celebrates its National day with a spectacular display of fireworks in Monaco’s Harbour on November 18 and a « Te Deum » Mass in the Cathédral. Following the Mass, visitors can see the Knights of Malta, distinguished ambassadors, consuls and state officials decked out in their medal-laden uniforms as they congregate in the Place St. Nicholas after the Mass. Then it’s off to the Prince’s Palace where onlookers can see the Princely family wave to the crowd from the windows of the palace.
The Ports of Monaco: increased activity for 2006
A positive outlook for the two ports of Monaco, which have been managed by a single entity since 1st January 2006 the Société d Exploitation des Ports de Monaco (S.E.P.M.). On Wednesday 10th May and two years following the commissioning of the new dike, Aleco Keusseoglu, President of S.E.P.M., announced that, according to forecasts, promising results were expected for port operations.
Firstly with regard to the cruise industry: this activity has risen by 11% (with 214 port calls in 2006 compared to 192 in 2005) and an increase in the number of passengers of 47.4% (196,000 compared to 133,000). In 2004, according to a study conducted by the Direction du Tourisme et des Congrès de Monaco , the economic payback (excluding accommodation and restaurants) with regard to the cruise industry reached the tidy sum of 19 million euros!
As far as yachting is concerned, several «work sites» in order to modernize and increase the performance of both the Hercules and Fontvieille ports are currently underway. At a time when finding a berth has become a real headache, Aleco Keusseoglu has announced that further berths are to be made available. In order to ensure complete transparency, a Commission has been set up to allocate berths, including a Commission specifically for the Monaco Grand Prix.
Electrification work on the docks in Hercules Port should be completed by the end of 2008. In addition, for yachtsmen keen on keeping up with the latest technology, WIFI facilities are currently being installed. Then there is the all important issue of black water recuperation from boats moored in Monaco.
FESTIVAL DE TELEVISION
The 46th edition of , the Monte-Carlo Television Festival was one of the richest edition, boasting the presence of international celebrities and a record number of american actors
AWARDS LISTING
THE 46th MONTE CARLO TELEVISION FESTIVAL
INTERNATIONAL TV AUDIENCE AWARDS
BEST TV COMEDY SERIES
DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES, USA
BEST TV DRAMA SERIES
CSI, USA
BEST TELENOVELAS/SOAPS OPERAS
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL, USA
TV SERIES
COMEDY CATEGORY
OUTSTANDING ACTOR
Chris LANGHAM in « THE THICK OF IT»
OUTSTANDING ACTRESS
Ashley JENSEN in “EXTRAS”
BEST EUROPEAN PRODUCER
Philip VOGES, Alban REHNITZ for “Turkish for Beginners”
BEST INTERNATIONAL PRODUCER
Doug ELLIN, Larry CHARLES, Mark WAHLBERG, Stephen LEVINSON, Chris HENCHY, Julian FARINO, Rob WEISS, Janace TASHJIAN, Mark J. GREENBERG for “Entourage”
DRAMA CATEGORY
OUTSTANDING ACTOR OF THE YEAR
Kiefer SUTHERLAND in “24”
OUTSTANDING ACTRESS OF THE YEAR
Lesley SHARP in “AFTERLIFE”
BEST EUROPEAN PRODUCER OF THE YEAR
Murray FERGUSON for “Afterlife”
BEST INTERNATIONAL PRODUCER
Joel SURNOW, Robert COCHRAN, Howard GORDON, Evan KATZ, Brian GRAZER, Kiefer SUTHERLAND, Jon CASSAR for “24”
URTI PRIZE
CHILDREN OF DARFOUR
Réalisateur : Camilla Nielsson / UNESCO / TV2, Danemark
AMADE-UNESCO PRIZE
“AFRICAN SCHOOL”
LION TELEVISION, United Kingdom
PRIZE OF THE RED CROSS INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE
“THE TSUNAMI GENERATION”
Directed by Folke RYDÉN / Reporter Folke RYDÉN
ZDF-ZWEITES DEUTSCHES FERNSEHEN, Germany
NEWS
BEST TV NEWS ITEM
PAKISTAN EARTHQUAKE / Reporter : Stuart RAMSAY / FIVE NEWS, United Kingdom
BEST 24H NEWS PROGRAMME
“THE LONDON BOMBINGS – July 7th 2005” / SKY NEWS, United Kingdom
BEST NEWS DOCUMENTARY
“FRAMED – A SATANIC MISCARRIAGE OF JUSTICE”
Director: Hannes RASTAM / SVT-SVERIGES TELEVISION, Sweden
BEST NEWS DOCUMENTARY
“LIVING WITH AIDS”
Director : Claudio VON PLANTA / Reporter : Sorious SAMURA / INSIGHT NEWS TV, United Kingdom
MINI-SERIES
BEST ACTOR
Benedict CUMBERBATCH in “To The Ends Of The Earth”
BRITISH BROADCASTING CORPORATION - BBC TWO, United Kingdom
BEST ACTRESS
Helen MIRREN in “Elizabeth I”– COMPANY PICTURES, United Kingdom
BEST MINI-SERIES
“APOCRIPHA : MUSIC FOF S.PETER & S.PAUL” / STUDIO "APOKRIF", Russia
SIGNIS PRIZE
“MAGNIFICENT 7” directed by Kenny GLENAAN
BRITISH BROADCASTING CORPORATION - BBC TWO, United Kingdom
PRIZE OF THE MONACO RED CROSS
“STOLEN EYES” / BULGARIAN NATIONAL TELEVISION, Bulgaria
SPECIAL MENTION
“ELECTROSHOCK” produced by KINES PRODUCCIONES, Spain
TELEVISION FILMS
MEILLEUR SCENARIO
Evelyne PISIER, Chantal de RUDDER for FLORE'S LOVERS – FRANCE 3, France
BEST ACTOR
Juli Mira in ELECTROSHOCK – KINES PRODUCCIONES, Spain
BEST ACTRESS
Juliette LAMBOLEY for MADEMOISELLE GIGI – FRANÇOISE CASTRO - BFC PRODUCTIONS, France
BEST DIRECTION
Caroline HUPPERT for MADEMOISELLE GIGI - FRANÇOISE CASTRO - BFC PRODUCTIONS, France
BEST TELEVISION FILM
MADEMOISELLE GIGI
FRANÇOISE CASTRO - BFC PRODUCTIONS, France
THE PRINCE RAINIER III SPECIAL PRIZE
THE NAUFRAGEURS OF THE SEA
Reporter : Philippe TALLOIS / Cameraman : Rémy Schejbal / TF1, France
Adapted sports day - 10th June 2006
Special Olympics Monaco will be commemorating its fourteenth Adapted Sports Day on 10th June 2006 in the Louis II Stadium (indoor football and athletics) and the bowling Club (petanque). This will give the Monegasque delegation, composed of 52 athletes (Special Olympics Monaco team and AMAPEI – Monegasque Association for the Support and Protection of Maladjusted Children) the opportunity to compete against French delegations (15 teams from the Var and the Alpes Maritimes) and 7 European teams (Switzerland, Italy, San Marino, Belgium and Andorra).
350 athletes will be taking part in this event, which will kick off at 9 a.m. with the opening ceremony in the Louis II Stadium and will conclude with the award ceremony (4.30 p.m.), followed by a dance evening for all participants.
Exhibitions by Toby Wright: back to the roots
An artist who is the talk of the town right now, Toby Wright has decided to make a stopover in the Principality. He’ll be hosting two exhibitions successively, the first in the “Maison de l’Amérique Latine” until 3rd June, and the second with the “Association des Jeunes Monégasques” from 8th to 24th June.
Princess Grace Foundation
H.R.H. Princess Caroline of Hanover, President of the Princess Grace Foundation and Mrs Bernadette Chirac, President of the Hospital Foundation of Paris, officially opened the « Maison des Familles » in the Necker Hospital for sick children in the XV arrondissement of Paris on 3rd May 2006.
The « Maison des Familles » housed in the Archambault Pavilion, a magnificent building dating back to the XIX century, is intended to provide accommodation for a few days to the parents, and also the brothers and sisters of children staying in the hospital over a long period, in day care or simply the night before a consultation.
The rehabilitation of the building (amounting to 2 million euros in all) was financed by the Princess Grace Foundation as well as by donations from the companies Peugeot and Dassault in addition to those by various families of the sick and other individuals.
Officially opened on 3rd May but in operation since 17th October, these new housing facilities have already accommodated 200 families, making the lives of the children in hospital and their close relatives easier.
The brigde Prince Pierre
The new Prince Pierre Bridge was officially opened on 9th May, in the presence of H.S.H. Prince Albert II and a number of other key figures from the Principality, including Mr Jean-Luc Allavena, Director of H.S.H Prince Albert II’s Cabinet, Mr Robert Calcagno, Counsellor, the Honourable Jean-Paul Proust, Minister of State within the Principality, Mr Jean-Marie Véran, Director of the Department of Public Works, Mr Georges Marsan, Mayor of Monaco and Mr Stéphane Valeri, President of the National Council. Constructed in 30 months and replacing the old bridge that was demolished in February 2005, the new Prince Pierre Bridge, which is 90 metres long and over seven metres wide, links the old station to boulevard Rainier III, according to a new layout.
5th World AIDS Orphans’ Day Monaco «official supporter»
On the initiative of H.S.H. the Sovereign Prince, the Mairie of Monaco will be taking part in the 5th World AIDS Orphans’ Day on 7th May 2006. Monaco was the first town in Europe to declare the 7th May as World AIDS Orphans’ Day back in 2004.
Launched in 2002 by the Association François-Xavier Bagnoud - FXB – within the framework of the United Nations Special Session on Children, this International Day of Solidarity aims to focus public attention on the distress of these vulnerable children and the consequences of their exclusion from society. Taking care of AIDS orphans (over 15 million across the globe) is a major human, economic and social challenge. Since FXB was first created, it has helped more than 1 500 000 people in 17 countries throughout the world.
From 31st May to 2nd June 2006, Governments are being called upon to assess the progress achieved concerning the commitments they made at the United Nations General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) in New York in 2001.
Pending the upcoming progress report, it is however obvious that the fixed objectives are far from being reached and that national action is quite clearly insufficient to cope with neither the world AIDS crisis nor that of the orphans and children made vulnerable by the virus. FXB is therefore launching an appeal for donations and would like to remind potential donors that 50 Euros will cover all tuition and schooling fees (uniform, school material, enrolment) for one orphan in Africa for a full year, while 100 Euros, for example, will provide 70 orphans with a daily meal for a whole month in South Africa.
The Line 4 H – a bus for handicapped persons
It is quite new in Monte Carlo. Since beginning of march people with an handicap can use this bus line which has adapted the bus as well as the bus stations for them. The direction for sanitary and social actions as well as the Compagnie des Autobus de Monaco organized this action. The bus named 4 H desserts the principality from est to west from the Sporting d’été to the Condamine. Not only the bus but also the bus stations where adapted for people with an handicap. In addition there is an hotesse on bord of the bus to help the needy people to get in and out.
Celebrating 30 years of the Ramoge agreement
The RAMOGE agreement, established thirty years ago on the initiative of Prince Rainier III, is the instrument adopted by the French, Monegasque and Italian Governments to ensure that the coastal areas of the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur Region, the Principality of Monaco and the Ligurian Region constitute a pilot zone for preventing and combating pollution of the marine and coastal environment.
To mark thirty years of action dedicated to the protection of the environment, the RAMOGE Agreement Organization is holding a special anniversary celebration on 9th May 2006 in the Principality of Monaco. It will take place in the presence of French, Italian and Monegasque members of the Agreement, representatives from the State, Regions and Departments of France and from the Provinces of Italy belonging to the area concerned.
During the event, the spotlight will be turned on all RAMOGE activities that have been undertaken to combat accidental marine pollution with particular emphasis on the RAMOGEPOL contingency plan including a presentation of anti-pollution measures implemented by the three Member States.
His Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco at the North Pole
Sunday 16th of April at 3.45 pm Monaco time his Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco reached the North Pole and planted the Monegasque flag as well as the flag of the international Olympic committee on the North Pole The caravan of the Expedition Team started on Thursday from the Russian Base of Borneo. They encountered numerous cracks on the ice thus hampering the Team's progress. On Saturday Prince Albert and his companions are putting forth an exceptional effort in order to make up the lack of progress in the last few days. After more than twelve hours of deliberate effort they cover a distance of 35 Km.
Set and Match
Sunday 16th of April , one day before the opening of the Masters Series of Monaco a little Tennis match was organised on the Place du Casino just in front of the famous Hotel the Paris on a little court out of plastics.
The two famous player Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal made a match for about ten minutes. It was like the final of the Masters Series, photographs cameras and fans where present to see this exceptional meeting.
Rally Monte Carlo Fuel Cell and Hybrids
A Prius Toyota won on Saturday 1rst of April the Rallye Monte-Carlo Fuel Cell and Hybrids.
It was the second time that Monaco organised the Rally Monte Carlo for Fuel, Cell and Hybrids and Electric cars.
There were three criteres for choosing the winner of the rallye, the consumption of the car, the weight and the penalties.
1/ Jo Ambrosini and Gian Carlo Raffermi, with Prius (Toyota) –364,08 points.
2/ Marc Toesca and Olivier Campana with Lexus R400H – 532,12 points
3/ Fabienne and Antonio Lisi with Prius (Toyota) – 765,08 points.
Already Fiat and Mercedes confirmed their participation next year during the the 3rd edition of Rallye Monte-Carlo Fuel Cell & Hybrids.
Monaco supports the buyers of an electric car or an hybrid car
A prime of 30 % on the price VAT included will be granted to private persons and 30% on the price without VAT to company. The buyers of a hybrid vehicle can benefit of a prime of 3000 €. In 2005 the total amount of the prime reversed by the government was about 70 000 €. In Monaco many public services use electric cars like the Post, the the SBM, the administration of the power station, the town hall, the administration of the parking, Monaco Telecom and the SDAU.
Monaco supports nature
MCD2 ecological association and MITI will organise from 30th of March to 2nd of April an exhibition concerning ecological vehicles and electric rechargeable vehicles. They attend about 80 exhibitors and about 10 000 visitors. Monaco is the town in the world with the most electric vehicles if you consider that each 1000 inhabitants 5 have an electric vehicle. During this meeting the 2nd edition of the Rallye Monte-Carlo Cell & Hybrids will take place. Organized by the famous Automobile Club de Monaco this event is registrated in the calendar of the courses of the International Federation of Automobile. The participants will drive 420 km between Monaco and Lugano.
An Europe for our children
« Build an Europe for and with our children » will take place during the session of the European Council the 5th and 6th April under the Presidency of Her Serene Highness the Princess of Hanover. The program is divided in two themes one is the right of the children and the other is Childhood and violence with the protection of children, prevention of violence criminal pursuits, and the participation of children.
Dresdner Bank in Monte-Carlo
The famous German bank Dresdner Bank will open a subsidiary in Monte-Carlo. The German bank group controlled by Allianz is the first sign that German banks will return to Monaco.
Master Series Monte-Carlo 10.4.2006
In April the 10th Tournement of the Tennis Masters Series will take place in Monte-Carlo A Souvenir picture book will be published for this event.
A presentation of the Tournament will take place at the Place of the Casino by the players brought in old fashion Cars (16th of April).
Just before the final a historic mixed doubles will be organized on the center course with ex winners of the tournament with old fashioned outfits.
PLAYERS 2006 Official Entry List (INDESIT ATP Ranking as of 06/03/2006)
1 Federer, Roger (SUI)
2 Nadal, Rafael (ESP)
3 Roddick, Andy (USA)
4 Nalbandian, David (ARG)
5 Davydenko, Nikolay (RUS)
6 Ljubicic, Ivan (CRO)
7 Coria, Guillermo (ARG)
8 Gaudio, Gaston (ARG)
9 Agassi, Andre (USA)
10 Hewitt, Lleyton (AUS)
11 Ferrer, David (ESP)
12 Kiefer, Nicolas (GER)
13 Johansson, Thomas (SWE)
14 Blake, James (USA)
15 Gonzalez, Fernando (CHI)
16 Ferrero, Juan-Carlos (ESP)
17 Stepanek, Radek (CZE)
18 Gasquet, Richard (FRA)
19 Robredo, Tommy (ESP)
20 Ginepri, Robby (USA)
21 Hrbaty, Dominik (SVK)
22 Grosjean, Sebastien (FRA)
23 Ancic, Mario (CRO)
24 Nieminen, Jarkko (FIN)
25 Berdych, Tomas (CZE)
26 Andreev, Igor (RUS)
27 Baghdatis, Marocs (CYP)
28 Haas, Tommy (GER)
29 Monfils, Gaël (FRA)
30 Moya, Carlos (ESP)
31 Chela, Juan Ignacio (ARG)
32 Rochus, Olivier (BEL)
33 Volandri, Filippo (ITA)
34 Verdasco, Fernando (ESP)
35 Mathieu, Paul-Henri (FRA)
36 Acasuso, Jose (ARG)
37 Santoro, Fabrice (FRA)
38 Serra, Florent (FRA)
39 Lopez, Feliciano (ESP)
40 Hanescu, Victor (ROM)
41 Dent, Taylor (USA)
42 Youzhny, Mikhail (RUS)
43 Rochus, Christophe (BEL)
44 Murray, Andy (GBR)
45 Henman, Tim (GBR)
46 Rusedski, Greg (GBR)
47 Massu, Nicolas (CHI)
48 Horna, Luis (PER)
49 Malisse, Xavier (BEL)
50 Tursunov, Dmitry (RUS)
51 Sanguinetti, Davide (ITA)
Protected Rank:
- Verkerk, Martin (NED)
Wild-cards:
– Lisnard, Jean-René (MON)
*Players subject to change
Sporting
This week a part of the summer programm of the famous Sporting été was published. The complete programm will be finished until end of March. The first real concert without chairs and tables and napkins will take place in Monte-Carlo. The Who’s will be in the Sporting for the first real concert in Monte-Carlo. Other artists will follow as the famous French singer Johnny Hallyday, Simply Red or the Italian Star Eros Ramazotti, and the famous Sting and much more artists.
Bal de la Rose
Under the presidency of his Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco and her Serene Highness the Princess of Hanover the « Bal de la Rose » will take place on Saturday 25th of March at 8 pm. The profit of the evening is dedicated to Princess Grace Foundation.
Georges Moquay has especially realized for this prestigious evening two paintings under the theme Reggae to illustrate the cover of the invitations and the program as well as the tag Ball de la Rose Reggae which will be used for the decoration.
Day of the women 8.3.2006
The 8th of March, International day of the women His Serene Highness the Prince Albert II of Monaco offerd a ros to every woman working in the Palace.