And as editor ofGSTAADLIFE, it’s especially good for me, given the great articles we’ve got for you this time around.

In this issue of GSTAADLIFE, we address every kind of private – from the goings on at our region’s internationally known private schools to the secrets of the scalpel, as wielded by the world-famous plastic surgeon Ivo Pitanguy. This is one edition you don’t want to miss. 

 

Join the (Private) Club

If sailing floats your boat, we have a detailed wrap-up of the Gstaad Yacht Club’s busy summer season. In addition to the club’s annual “Rally and Yachting” competition, you can read about GYC members Nathalie Brugger and Mathias Bühler, and their test run in Rio to prepare for the 2016 Olympic Games.

 

Private School, Public Challenges

Unless you’ve been living in a cave, you’ve probably heard the rumours swirling about John F. Kennedy International School. New director Henri Behar sets the record straight with frank answers to the pressing questions: How many students has the school lost? How will it move forward? Meanwhile the region’s most celebrated private school, Le Rosey, has just inaugurated the beautiful Carnal Hall, a performing arts complex fit for a capital city.

 

The Private Woes and Wows of Life 

Itching to break out your ten-gallon hat and cowboy boots and dance to the songs of heartbreak and happiness only country music can deliver? There are just a few weeks until Country Night Gstaad will host a three-day country music extravaganza from September 12 to 14. In addition to top young country stars, special guest Gstaad-resident Kirsty Bertarelli is sure to dazzle with songs from her latest album, “Indigo Shores.”

 

Last Word columnist Mandolyna Theodoracopulos believes “The Swiss Do It Best”. But she’s not talking about cheese or chocolate or CHF 200,000 watches – rather how the Swiss have managed to sustain a high quality of life here that is the envy of those less fortunate around the world. You may not agree with all her points, though Theodoracopulos’ words will certainly have you appreciating the good life here in the Saanenland.

 

Going Public on (Self) Defense

But no matter how good that life may be, we do have our share of growing problems to address. According to GSTAADLIFE’s summary of recent reports, violent crime is down but petty theft and burglaries are on the rise. I met with security expert James Otigbah for his take on self-defense and a full day of physical training. While I won’t be entering the boxing ring anytime soon, I did learn a thing or two about kneeing an attacker in the groin – should I ever need it.

 

Of Course They’re Real

Speaking of body parts, in our Profile interview, Januaria Piromallo talks to world-renowned plastic surgeon Ivo Pitanguy. Over dinner at her chalet, and high tea at his, the most famous man in Brazil after Pélé proves that at 90 years young, his extraordinary career is holding up nicely on its own. Which is apparently good news for anyone who suffers from the effects of gravity. Note: Everyone!

 

Same Time Next Season

I’d like to thank you, our readers, for your support during this summer season. Our traditional off-season lasts through mid-December, when our first issue of the winter will arrive. In a departure from previous scheduling, GSTAADLIFE’s second winter issue will be released just after New Year’s – in time to catch you for a second round during those busy holidays.

Until then, here’s hoping your public and private lives are as lovely as an Autumn day in the Saanenland.