BM Morzine aout 08 - Mairie de Morzine Avoriaz

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The summer in Morzine
27 & 28 June:
The 6th Pass’Portes MTB Portes du Soleil festival
and bike fair took place in Morzine with some 40
exhibitors, demos and opportunities to have a go...
Sunday 9 August: The 4th Traditional Pastimes Fair
saw plenty of classic costumes and many
generations of Morzinois villagers joining in the fun.
12-14 July:
The Harley Davidson
Rally came to town,
with rides in the area,
shows and activities,
a concert (including
Louis
Bertignac
outside the Tourist
Office!), demos and
the “Harley village”
outside the information
centre.
14 July:
Morzine’s liberation 65 years
after the Second World War was
commemorated at the Prisoners’
chapel in Avoriaz, where a
plaque was also unveiled to
announce the building’s listed
status.
3-5 September:
Engines were flat out for the 61st Rallye Mont-BlancMorzine – a special stage in the French Rally
Championships. More than 150 drivers offered a thrilling
spectacle for motor racing enthusiasts.
Avoriaz plays host to 4 major sporting events
12-14 July
The Fise Experience featured
roof-top MTB, BMX and
rollerblading with pro athletes
and amateurs in the heart of
the resort.
25-26 July
The Avoriaz Strong Men Show
featured participants from the
Strongman Champion League
who came for a parade of power:
lifting tractors or tree trunks,
pulling trucks weighing several
tonnes – and all in front of an
astonished audience!
Sunday 9 August:
The
Freestyle
motoX
show
(FMX) was an
impressive eyeopener where the
riders performed
successively
bigger jumps and
tricks that left
those watching in
awe.
Saturday 15 August
The Hauts Forts Trail – a
mountain race with two
routes along some of
the Portes du Soleil’s
most stunning places,
including the Crêtes de
Zore, Col du Fornet,
Vallée de la Manche
and Hauts Forts…
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A message from the Mayor
It won’t be long before winter’s here…
After a busy summer bursting with events –highlights are detailed in the following pages - this autumn finds us gearing up for the coming
winter season. But our thoughts are already turning to 2010 following the recent announcement that Morzine-Avoriaz is to host another stage
of the Tour de France, while 2018 remains a date firmly fixed in our minds given the excitement generated by the Annecy/Haute-Savoie bid
for the Winter Games. I’m not about to hide from you the fact that this is going to be no easy matter; indeed, the road to success is full of
pitfalls. If it is easy to make promises, our job is to remain focused on the task ahead of us, so that we stay committed to this testing adventure.
These words will come as no surprise to many, I’m sure. It is easy to be critical, far harder to actually do something...
Traffic problems relating to the various roadworks under way in the village have tested everyone’s patience and I would like to thank you for
your forbearance – though please bear in mind the work is not yet finished. The work details you have been waiting for follow in these pages.
After reading them, it will be clear, hopefully that the many infrastructure improvements planned in the commune will give us the facilities and look - that our commune needs if we are to remain competitive on all fronts.
The challenges we must achieve are important, vital even: improved intercommunal links, better traffic flow, parking, public transport and
technical machinery. The progress and success of all these projects is everyone’s responsibility and also that of the municipal teams who will
be stretched to the limit. Solutions to problems are rarely easily found nor agreed on by everyone. So in the face of these many issues, it is
more important than ever that all Morzinois residents draw on the tolerance and unity of their ancestors which has left us such a wonderful
– if fragile – heritage. This is the real challenge for us all, and it is one that I am certain we can all achieve together.
For now, may I take this opportunity to wish all of you an excellent start to the coming winter season.
The Mayor
Jean-Louis Battandier
Golden and diamond weddings
At this year’s annual seniors’ dinner, held in Le Crêt hotel’s
new reception room, the town hall and CCASS took the
opportunity to congratulate long-married couples. Sadly,
not everyone concerned could be present for the
occasion, either through illness or family commitments.
Henri-Michel Thorens and Germaine Bron, who said their
“I do’s” on 12 September 1959, celebrated their golden
anniversary; Roger Baud and Irène Richard (21 May 1949)
were applauded for their diamond anniversary. Both
couples were presented with flowers and congratulated
by Martine Philipp, CCASS vice-president, Mayor and
CCASS president Jean-Louis Battandier, and Geneviève
Richard, newly appointed president of Lou D’vantis
society.
Philippe Marcel Richard and Cécile Buet (10 January
1959), Maxime Lanternier and Madeleine Premat (26 September 1959), Louis Bondaz and Marie-Monique Marullaz (26 September 1959) also
celebrated their golden anniversaries. Raymond Viviand and Marie-Thérèse Taberlet (9 juillet 1949) celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
Lou D’vantis: a club for the community’s older members
The idea for the club was raised some time ago and is now a reality, thanks to support from CCASS. The group’s name - Lou D’vantis
(lit: “those who precede us”) – indicates a willingness to bring together the over-60s by means of events, outings and games…
In September, the club’s officers were elected: Mayor Jean-Louis Battandier and Martine Philipp (members of honour), Geneviève
Richard (president and existing CCASS member), Jacques Lehrmann (vice-president), Geneviève Prioux (treasurer) and Pierre Baud
(secretary). Assistant-treasurer Marie-José Richard and assistant secretary Solange Hoff were also elected. A subsidy will be granted
every year by CCASS to support the new club’s activities. All those who wish to lend a hand or offer ideas for activities and help in
their setting-up should contact Geneviève Richard.
C O N T E N T S
Page 4
Page 7
Page 8
Major infrastructure projects
Communal paths
Launch of the UTN and cable car
initiative
Page 9 Ski sector developments
Page 10 The question of intercommunality
Page 11 Firefighter news
SIVOM news
Page 12 OUTA nursery and Seasonal workers
Page 13 The Quality Committee
The Culture Committee
Page 14 Society and Club news
Page 15 MultiPass update and Le Tour de
France
Page 16 Announcements, in brief
O ur websi te addr ess:
www.morzine.fr
For information about public life: committee meeting minutes, useful
phone numbers, newsletters, news, planned works...
Editors-in-chief:
Mayor Jean-Louis Battandier and la Commission Communication
Reporting and editing: Chantal Bourreau
Layout and design: EC Création-La Marmotte Bleue
This magazine is printed on renewable PEFC-certified
paper (Programme de Reconnaissance des Certifications
Forestières) by the Imprimerie Nouvelle-Sallanches
which carries the Imprim'Vert label.
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Redevelopment of the Tourist Office square
Work began at the end of August under the
guidance of architects Jacques Coulon,
whose bid was successful in last February’s
tendering process.
The redevelopment also provided an
opportunity to overhaul the mains water
system uphill of the work site on the Combe
à Zore. At the beginning of autumn, various
firms (Sgreg, SAEV and Jardiflore) began the
terracing work and construction of the base
destined to hold the ice skating rink this
winter.
The granite and all covered elements of the
project will be laid before the winter. It is
pertinent to reiterate that this project
encompasses not only the Tourist Office
square, but also the Baraty area and
neighbouring streets, from the Combe à
Zore to the Place de la Crusaz, the aim being
to create a lively place suitable for
hosting events and activities in the
new square. When finished, this
new space will be car-free, the focus
shifting to pedestrians. The ice rink
will be built in November and open
for Christmas.
The second phase of works (Baraty
square, Route de la Plagne, Combe à
Zore, Taille de Mas du Pleney) is
scheduled for 2010.
The lighting will resemble a theatre’s to create a cool evening atmosphere
Lighting and seasonal illuminations
A lighting scheme for the square has the twin objectives of providing
public lighting while also showcasing the new space and its buildings.
Most notably, there will be 4 lighting posts measuring 14m, each
capable of carrying floodlights that will provide the required lighting
mood according to the season and time of day. The scheme will be
partly operational for the winter. The work that stops when the snow
falls will recommence in the spring, marking the 2nd phase of the
project. This includes the finishing touches to the Tourist Office
square, stretching to the junctions with the Baraty and La Crusaz, and
the link to the Rue du Bourg. The end date for the project is December
2010.
Detail of the floodlighting masts that will illuminate
the new square
The wood-burning generator construction project
Work began in June on the heating network and a month
later on the new building that will house the generator.
Despite the impact this was sure to have on the
commune’s tourist activity, the Town Hall could not delay
the start of the work until the autumn after longer-thanexpected administrative delays. In effect, the subsidy set
aside for the project would have been lost had work not
begun in 2009. Hence the reason why construction on the
two sites began almost simultaneously.
Located near to the Palais des Sports, the generator will
comprise a machine room on the ground floor for two
burners (to regulate heat output according to demand).
Underground, a silo for the fuel – strips of wood – will
produce hot water at 90° that will be sent into the heating
network. Work on the network continued at the end of
October. Covering 1.4km, this network provides heat to 12
communal buildings: the library, vicarage, Maison du
Bourg, Town Hall, ANPE offices, judo facility, music room,
primary school and infants school, the Floralies and the
entirety of the Palais des Sports (pools, ice rink and
annexes).
Installation of the two burners is planned for November and the system should
be operational for Christmas, subject to testing. The tiered path from the Route
des Bois Venants to the Palais des Sports will reopen next spring.
An indoor pool for Morzine
Also next spring, work is scheduled to commence on Morzine’s
indoor swimming pool. The project will stop for the summer
season and recommence in September. The current changing
rooms are to be demolished in autumn 2010 at the same time as
work starts on the new buildings which are due to open in 2011.
This autumn, the Town Hall discussed the option of installing a diving
pool. But this was rejected as totally unrealistic in view of the cost (some
€1m) and the lack of tourist demand to cushion the investment.
Contractor: Daragon Cheysson Architectes
The existing pools (big and small), the paddling pool and water
features will be maintained. A new 25m x 15m indoor pool is to
be built, as well as a spa area
with 3 saunas, 2 hammams and
washrooms, plus a small
relaxation space. A new
restaurant is also planned that
will be almost identical in size
to the existing facility, covering
approximately 200m2, with
seating space for 100 diners.
The new swimming complex
(indoor pool, changing rooms
and restaurant) is scheduled to
open for winter 2011.
Site internet : www.morzine.fr
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Other construction projects
Morzine
Storm channel work at
Prodains
Avoriaz
Fontaines Blanches escalator
This autumn, the old Fontaines Blanches escalator – which has been out of service for
3 years - has been replaced by two standard escalators.
Contractor: Simon Cloutier (Atelier d’Architecture d’Avoriaz)
Note: The chemin de Coulet public lift in Morzine is due to be replaced in 2010. Contractors
Marullaz will oversee the installation of two lifts which will be open to mountain bikers
Lighting scheme for Avoriaz
Work this autumn focused on building a storm
channel network and digging in electricity cables,
telephone lines and public lighting power lines
(with Christmas the finish date). Improvements to
the existing pavements were also carried out at
the same time: new kerbs (a chicane-style
template with a single pavement on the right, then
on the left, to reduce traffic speed) – and
resurfacing of the pathway.
Contractors: Perrier TP, Spie
Drains and sewerage work
In Super Morzine
Work to build an all-encompassing drains system
began this autumn from Morzine, representing the
first part of plans to construct a used-water storm
drain measuring some 1.5km. The second part of the
project will commence next spring, extending the
drainage capacity as far as the Maisons de Zore.
Contractors: Sassi, Socco and Bianco
La Salle
Another project began this autumn in La Salle to
reinforce and extend the drainage network for used
water, drinking water and rain water.
Contractor: Grenat TP
Palais des Sports
A significant amount of work has been necessary
this autumn to refurbish and modernise the Palais
des Sports’ circuitry for the ice rink lighting. Work is
due to finish next spring.
Following a study organised by ALDA to
improve public lighting and promote the
resort’s architecture within the auspices of
a “lighting mission”, the Town Hall has given
the green light for the first phase of works
to begin in 2010. Work will begin in
Dromonts, as far as Les Ruches, and include
the Hauts-Forts walkway.
Normal lighting
Place Avrizou
Lighting for special events
The junction at Les Granges
The junction next to the now-demolished Skippon farm is to be refurbished before
the winter. The site will be cleared, making way for new road signs following the
planned widening work on the Essert-Romand road. This project - comprising a flat
crossroads - offers better safety to motorists than a roundabout, given the
dangerous winding nature of this section of road.
The old barn, Route de la Plagne
The barn, formerly standing at the Taille de Mas du Grand Hôtel crossroads, was
taken down in September by Francis Baud carpenters. Before work started, each
piece of joinery was numbered to enable the barn’s reconstruction, as part of a
project led by the
c o m m u n i t y ’s
heritage society.
The space that
remains will be
spruced up for
the winter.
Communal paths and walkways
Dérêches pathway
Pic trail
In collaboration with Montriond town hall, the area between pont du
pré bridge and behind the woodmill has been refurbished. The
project, undertaken by Trombert Espaces Verts, involved levelling the
pathway over a
significant width
using different
materials
to
ensure stability, to
which was added
a
weedpreventing canvas
and a final layer of
fine
gravel.
Temporary
signposting is in
place to aid walkers ahead of the erection of permanent markers.
This path starts at Encoches and arrives at Super-Morzine cable car.
The ONF was tasked with creating the route, which is signposted by
a white woodpecker stencil. The pathway is solely for walkers, the
aim being to keep mountain bikers and pedestrians apart, while
offering a safe and peaceful route for those on foot.
Coulet pathway
The municipal paths team is in the process of refurbishing the
section of the trail between Potache forest as far as the col (pass).
The wooden section will be replaced after terracing work is
completed.
The route has been levelled and the steps kept on the top section.
Trombert Espaces Verts replaced the steps on the flat part of the path
with a shallow ramp. A handrail on the left hand side of the path will
soon be in place to help with the climb.
Ecureuil trail
This family-friendly circuit leaves from the centre of Morzine and
rises to the Nyon waterfall as far as the Rocher, returning by the
Nants path. The ONF was responsible for creating the route which
is signposted by a red squirrel stencil.
Note: a walking guide is available for both routes at the tourist office.
In addition, an easy, free walking guide is also available from Morzine
and Avoriaz tourist offices with a selection of routes in Morzine,
Avoriaz and the Vallée d’Aulps.
Col de Cou path
Signposting
The paths commission is working to overhaul the commune’s
signposting in accordance with the Departmental Plan for Walking
and Hiking Routes (PDIPR)
The first phase involves the Portes du Soleil tour, but when work is
complete, all signposting in the commune will conform to these
new stipulations.
If you see or encounter a problem while out walking,
please inform the Town Hall’s Paths Commission (La
Commission Sentiers).
Forestry news
2009 work update
Projects for 2010
Morzinette :
Several hectares of ground were
cleared mechanically to encourage
the forest’s natural regeneration.
Service route for Ressachaux forest.
This project conforms with the Haut-Chablais forestry charter, the aim being to create a service
route from Prodains to Boucherie, to make the forest uphill of this point accessible for
commercial use.
Plans are being finalised for work to start on the first section in 2010, from Prodains to Acquis.
If this major project is ever to succeed, and if the forest is ever to realise its commercial potential
and be protected from natural disease (generic phytosanitary sicknesses, bark beetle
infestation...), the commune needs the help of all landholders – who will be contacted by the
Town Hall imminently.
Currently, discussions are under way to decide on the best route (by Co-forêts). In midNovember, the project will be presented for funding to the Conseil Général, which will provide
80% of the total cost.
Proclou :
Some 250 m3 of woodland was cut
down in the Proclou sector to make
way for a new ski slope for beginners
and ski schools (financed by SERMA).
Windows on the countryside
Trees are lovely, but they grow quicker than you think!
The result is that the countryside takes on a “shut-in” appearance and the village disappears behind a curtain of trees, evergreen or
deciduous…the quality of our green areas is an important part of our tourist appeal, and holidaymakers are particularly sensitive about
it. To remedy this sense of being enclosed, the Town Hall is keen to throw open these “windows on the countryside”, and is willing to
part-fund pruning projects. Landholders who might be interested in this project will be contacted by the Town Hall soon. In the
interests of the village, please extend a warm welcome to these official visitors!
Site internet : www.morzine.fr
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Work begins on Avoriaz’s New Tourist Unit (UTN)
The technical phase of the Avoriaz UTN programme is now moving towards becoming operational. Numerous contractors are
involved: 4 contracting authorities including Morzine-Avoriaz Town Hall, some 20 master-builders, architects, engineering and design
agencies…The first phase involves planning start dates for each part of the project and coordinating everyone involved in the work,
as well as finalising plans for the reception areas and the resort’s logistical support zones.
Work will begin next spring with a view to finishing in 2012.
Provisional schedule of works
Commune of Morzine-Avoriaz
Spring
2010
• Construction begins on UTN
(at existing P2 site):
terracing, roads and
connecting areas.
• Work begins on
new technical
workshops.
Delivery: end 2010
Pierre et Vacances
• Construction starts
on 3 new buildings
in La Falaise sector
(at existing P3 site)
SEPA*
DELKIA **
• Work begins on
new car parking facilities.
Delivery: Christmas 2011
Delivery: Christmas 2011
• Construction starts
on 4 new buildings
for Les Crozats
Delivery: Christmas 2011
• Start of work
on Aquariaz.
Autumn
2010
Delivery: summer 2012
Spring
2011
• Construction of reception
buildings and refurbishment
of drop-off areas.
Delivery: end 2011.
• Work begins to construct
3 remaining buildings
in La Falaise
(in existing technical
services facility)
• Construction starts
on wood-burning
generator (location: new
technical services facility)
Delivery: Christmas 2011
Delivery: Christmas 2012
*SEPA: Société d’Exploitation des Parkings d’Avoriaz (car parking); contractor
responsible for providing and maintaining an 850-space indoor, semi-underground
car park located in front of the arrival area.
**DELKIA: constructor responsible for the wood-fired generator and for providing
heat to new Pierre et Vacances buildings.
Plan of the Aquariaz pool complex, to be finished by summer 2012.
The Morzine-Avoriaz cable car:
progress report
Transfers between Morzine centre and the skiing in
Avoriaz breaks down into 2 parts:
1 The Prodains to Avoriaz link
The current project being led by SERMA involves
replacing the existing gondola (see p.9) and
overhauling current car parking facilities. This project
has been explained to residents in the areas
concerned.
2 The Morzine centre to Prodains link.
This proposal – which has the support of the Town Hall
- is a key part of the Morzine-Avoriaz/Annecy 2018
Winter Games bid and is currently in the process of
financial and technical feasibility studies. These studies
will also ensure that the proposed cable car departure
area does not clash with the village centre’s town
planning objectives, while also ensuring that the
proposed arrival area for the cable car marries with
SERMA’s future plans, guaranteeing an unbroken link
between the two locations.
Different geotechnical specialists and surveyors have
been consulted and meetings have taken place on site
with possible contractors (and our ski industry
partners: SERMA and Pléney SA). These meetings have
given the Town Hall a much more precise idea of the
technical, statutory and monetary constraints involved.
Morzine and Avoriaz ski developments
Improvements on and off the slopes in Morzine-Avoriaz are outlined by each resort’s ski lift company director.
Alain Barbier: Morzine
New developments this winter.
The Pleney’s Retour des Nants piste
has a new look
The reshaping project began in autumn
2008 and continued apace this summer
thanks to the fine weather. Refurbishment
of the Retour des Nants was completed this
summer from Grangettes bridge to the foot
of the Pleney, with reseeding in September,
to encourage fresh grass. Just before this
stage, 6 snow cannons were installed to ensure skiing right down to the
village. From now on, no one will have to use their ski poles to push
themselves back to the foot of the slopes!
Summer visitors can have a look at this new piste by taking the “Ecureuil”
trail, which is signposted and suitable for families. The route leaves from
Morzine centre and passes Nyon waterfall, returning on the Retour des
Nants, which has a superb panoramic view of the village.
Piste B
On the Nant Crue sector, the slope’s profile has been softened and 2 snow
cannons added to improve snow provision around this corner.
Piste H
The former World Cup slope has been improved: 3 snow cannons have been
moved and another new one added to the sector.
Artificial snow: better and better!
Notwithstanding the 6 new snow cannons on the Retour des Nants, more
new installations are in place at the top of the Troncs chairlift (Nyon), making
a total of 10 cannons to guarantee skiable snow on Morzine’s slopes.
Elsewhere, a project is under way to optimise the artificial snow network
(which numbers 250 machines). This work will improve the air and water
mix, reducing energy consumption.
New management at Pointe de Nyon restaurant
A new team will be welcoming diners at Pointe de Nyon restaurant this
winter. After one season at the reins, Mr Milesi is stepping, down for health
reasons.
What other projects are on the horizon?
The ski lift company SA du Pléney aims to replace the Chamossière chairflift
for for 2010/2011.
The new 6-seater detachable chairlift will increase passenger flow from
1350/hr to 2700/hr – effectively doubling current capacity. Tendering is
continuing and we are in discussions with the commune of Verchaix
concerning the installation of this new facility.
The chairlift route is already decided. There will be little change to the
disembarkation point, but a significant change to the embarkation area,
which moves close to the top of the Blanchots chairlift. This will mean that
many skiers and snowboarders – especially children and beginners – will no
longer have to push themselves to the new lift, as is currently the case. The
new departure point also means that anyone arriving from the Charniaz
chairlift or Les Gets can take the new chairlift without having to go via the
Blanchots or Têtes lifts. This new facility will significantly improve access to
the Chamossière sector.
Morzine’s ski lifts open:
• Conditions permitting: partial opening (Pléney) Saturday 12
December.
• Complete opening: Saturday 19 December.
Alain Blas: Avoriaz
New developments this winter
A dedicated beginners’ slope on
Proclou
A new beginners-only piste has been
created on the Proclou sector in
collaboration with the resort’s ski schools
and the tourist office. The slope is
exclusively for adult beginners who until
now have had to share the same run back
to Super Morzine with more experienced
skiers and snowboarders. To help the learning experience, this new
slope (measuring almost 1200m) will feature 6 skills workshops for ski
school instruction.
New cable car project
The operational agreement between the Town Hall and the ski lift
company (SERMA) expires in 2023. At the same time, all investments
prescribed in the agreement have been fulfilled, making this the right
time to renegotiate the “Snow Plan” and add new investment pledges.
With this is mind, an amendment to the current contract is in place,
extending the current term until 2032, allowing us, the ski lift company,
a reasonable period to recuperate the significant expenditure
stipulated in our agreement with the commune. The first of these
investments will be to replace the cable car, a project which goes hand
in hand with plans to increase the number of beds in Avoriaz (the UTN
project), which will see the first new apartments delivered by the end
of 2011. For SERMA, the challenge is to absorb the increased skier
numbers while improving traffic flow on the slopes.
Work on this project is due to begin in spring 2010. The existing cable
car will continue to function as normal until its replacement comes into
service for winter 2011/2012. Its route will rise to the right of the
existing gondola following public consultation with residents in
Prodains in September. Tendering for the lift manufacturer is ongoing,
our demand being for an enclosed, in-motion Funitel or 3S facility.
How does the project sit with Morzine’s plans for a new cable car?
It has been established that SERMA’s plans dovetail perfectly with
Morzine’s, so as to develop a seamless transport system. While some
technical details have yet to be finalised, the Prodains-Avoriaz part of
the project in no way hampers a future link to the Morzine-Prodains
section, since compatible machinery is to be used.
Hill-stabilising work on Chavanette
This project aims to improve skiers’ “homeward-bound” experience in
the lower section of resort – a key point of access to other slopes.
Environmental impact studies are under way and those who stand to
be affected by the work visited the site this autumn. Given the lengthy
administrative delays involved, this project is not likely to be begin
before 2012, but it is important to be prepared for the future.
Avoriaz’s ski lifts open:
• Conditions permitting: partial opening at weekends.
• Complete opening: from 12-13 December during the Ski Test
Fair/Fête de la Glisse
The Portes du Soleil opens on 19 December
Site internet : www.morzine.fr
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The question of intercommunal co-operation
This topic is very much in the news, given its far-reaching ramifications (for the article in full, visit www.morzine.fr)
In France, the principle of intercommunality is tried
and tested. Some 94% of French communes have
regrouped themselves into one fiscal unit. The
government is keen to see an intercommunal map as
soon as possible. Morzine, which is not part of this
system, is therefore affected by such legislation. To better
understand what is at stake, the commune’s elected
officials have answered a number of questions about
intercommunality.
Why are people discussing whether Morzine should
either create, or become part of, an intercommunal
system?
Territorial reform will soon be addressed in the French
parliament, the aim being to create an intercommunal
map by 31 December 2011. By this date, all communes are
expected to have joined the intercommunal system;
otherwise the Prefect has the executive power to attach
any non-participating commune to an existing
intercommunal structure. This is why it is urgent that we
address this issue and decide on the territorial plans we
hope to bring to fruition together. With this in mind, the
municipal council voted unanimously to create a special
intercommunal committee. Its members are: Hélène
Richard, Gisèle Richard, Martine Philipp, Lucien Rastello, and
Fanny Brûlebois (president).
Despite this impending centre-led change, what are the
advantages of becoming part of, or of founding, a cooperative intercommunal system?
There are many advantages: first, it will facilitate the internal
organization of our catchment area and help bring major
projects to fruition efficiently and rationally. The by-product
of this will be more solidarity since these projects will tally
with residents’ needs. The economic advantages should also
be stressed: intercommunality makes it possible to pool
funds and make significant savings, while also taking
advantage of available subsidies (from the state, department,
region or Europe…) which are increasingly set aside for
intercommunal structures, or at the very least, given to
intercommunal structures at a better rate of interest than that
accorded to isolated communes. It is important to be in
control of a coherent regional plan. In a word,
intercommunality means that we will be stronger, together.
What kind of intercommunality is envisaged for Morzine - and who will
the partner communes be?
This is the nub of the debate! The municipal council is in the process of
deciding on the way forward and has started discussions with neighbouring
communes including Les Gets, Châtel and the Vallée d’Aulps. But any future
“community of communes” will comprise many participants, all of whom
must act together to meet the collective need on shared projects affecting
all residents. At the same time, the new intercommunal area must be
sufficiently well organized to ensure the links remain strong, while ensuring
that no one commune is dominated by another. The question remains: what
do we want to achieve together?
What happens next?
We will continue to debate the issue and task a consultant to specify what
will change from a judicial viewpoint once service provision is transferred,
and the fiscal impact on the commune too. We also anticipate meeting the
presidents and directors of other grouped communal organizations based in
the mountains, for example in Savoie, to find out how others have
confronted the issues we now face. This type of meeting will help us to look
at what is at stake objectively, to anticipate problems, to learn how to
proceed and equip ourselves with the skills we will need to make a success
of our intercommunal obligations.
Morzine’s surrounding intercommunal structures (Syndicat
Intercommunal d’Aménagement du Chablais)
Intercommunal projects
Several intercommunal projects have been achieved with Morzine’s
financial help. These include:
- Montriond football ground,
- Saint Jean d’Aulps Ehpad,
- The libraries network in the Vallée d’Aulps,
- The Vallée d’Aulps Child-minder network (RAM),
- The Balad’Aulps Bus,
- ...
The multi-activity training area
Many others are in the planning stage, including a new Vallée
d’Aulps police station in Montriond and a multi-activity area; this will
be built above the football changing rooms at Montriond Pré. It will comprise an 80m2 training space for all sports clubs in the valley, as well as
changing rooms and small bar. Access will be independent of the football changing area and suitable for users with reduced mobility. Roofmounted solar panels will produce hot water for the changing room showers.
The Vallée d’Aulps (CCVA), which is supporting the project, lodged the planning application in July. Tendering is under way (work is scheduled for
2010 and to finish early 2011).
This project’s intercommunal status meant it qualified for subsidies from the Conseil Général 74, Rhône-Alpes and central government.
11
Major changes for our firefighters
2009 was a year of major change for our
firefighters, not least because the new fire
station opened. The move to the new premises
took all of August and the early part of
September, after which the firefighters bid
adieu to their former headquarters in BoisVenants.
From now on Morzine’s firefighters work from
a new facility that’s as spacious as it is
Last photo before leaving Bois Venants fire station
functional. The official opening ceremony is
planned for the morning of 28 November and
will be followed by an “open-house” afternoon
for all villagers to have a look at the new
building.
A direct consequence of this move is that 3
professional firefighters - Thierry Laurent,
Franck Accardo and Vincent Bouvier - have
been based at the station since early
September to reinforce the work of the
volunteers.
Since 1 November, the fire station - Le
Centre de Secours Principal de Morzineis also responsible for mounting guard
and maintinaing volunteers and fulltime firefighters at the centre from
7am-7pm, ready for immediate callout, so they can help those whose lives
are at risk.
This year’s other news is the arrival of
the long ladder in September. At the
start of October, 6 firefighters
underwent training to learn how to
manipulate the equipment and
understand its limitations, supervised
by two instructor firefighters from
Annecy’s Centre de Secours Principal. All
week, the group worked on the long
ladder in the areas where they are
needed, as far as the Grande Terche and
Avoriaz, while also participating in a
night manoeuvre.
With the 3 new full-time firefighters who
arrived in September and the 3
volunteer firefighters already trained to
use the long ladder, the centre now has 12 trained long ladder firefighters. Another
training session is planned for next spring to prepare 6 more volunteers.
Note: The Firefighters’ Dinner is on Sunday 22 November at the Palais des Sports where the
grand prize draw takes place (from 4.30pm).
In July, Jean-Marc Bouvier stood down from active service after 44 years with
Morzine’s firefighters. Having already been awarded the gold medal for 40 years’
service and the silver medal with rosette, Jean-Marc Bouvier was honoured with the
extremely rare National Firefighters’ Federation silver medal, which was pinned on
him by Mayor Jean-Louis Battandier and Denis Bouchet, both SDIS 74
administrators.
What’s the news from SIVOM in the Vallée d’Aulps?
Water works
open day
SIVOM is holding an open day
for everyone in the Vallée
d’Aulps to come and see the
new treatment centre in
Essert-Romand. The date is
Saturday 5 December 2009,
from 2pm-6pm. All interested
residents will be greeted by
SIVOM staff and guided
around the ultra-modern
installation that treats used
water. Please come with your
family and children!
Couard tip
New access card. From 1 November, an access card is compulsory for everyone depositing rubbish at
the tip. The card is free and will be sent to you if you fill out the SIVOM registration form at the tip, Town
Hall or Morzine tourist office.
The card’s introduction is not a precursor to charging for private rubbish disposal (of reasonable
amounts); its aim is to help us manage the different types of waste we receive. Trades should contact
SIVOM for more information.
In November, a barrier will be erected at the tip entrance and a small hut where a member of staff will
check access cards and direct visitors.
Better circulation. In a bid to improve our service, SIVOM also intends to overhaul traffic flow inside the
tip and make it safer by implementing a one-way system. This will help drivers and avoid dangerous
reversing manoeuvres.
New rubbish accepted! Since the autumn, you can leave the following types of rubbish at the tip:
- clothing, old games and shoes. These objects will be sorted and packaged by a member of staff with
a view to being reused or sold as seen.
- Oil filters: if you do your vehicle’s oil change, you can leave the oil and filter at the tip.
Info: SIVOM de la VALLEE d’AULPS, tel: 04 50 79 58 51
Site internet : www.morzine.fr
12
Social news
L’OUTA: a nursery (full and part-time) and after-school care
L’Outa is a “loi 1901” association created in
1991 to look after children aged 3-13 years by
means of three separate structures:
• The crèche, for children under 3 years from
Morzine or nearby, open all year.
• The “drop-in” nursery for tourists to leave
their children during the summer and winter
seasons.
(Note: These two structures are housed in the
Outa building that was refurbished in 2004).
• The after-school system, which caters for
children attending school in Morzine. Care
takes place after the school day finishes at the
village’s three schools: infants, primary and
the Sainte Marie Madeleine.
Also, a welcome facility (without sleeping
facilities) is also in place to guarantee childcare
during the busiest winter tourist periods,
namely Christmas, February and Easter, as well
as on Wednesdays and Saturdays. This facility is
in the public infants school (l’école maternelle
publique).
A committee of volunteers
The association has a salaried director for each
of the three structures mentioned above. Many
others are called upon to assist, with up to 30
workers during winter…
L’Outa’s executive committee is staffed
exclusively by volunteers.
Tasks such as recruiting, form-filling, billing, sending reminders and liaising with the
CAF are among the many serious responsibilities involved in managing this kind of
structure, all the while ensuring that the centre conforms with current collective
labour agreements and strict rules concerning young children’s hygiene and security.
With all of these issues to deal with, the committee regrets that it would like to stop
its after-school care. But following strong parental demand, the committee has
agreed to maintain its extracurricular offer for another year, with the help of the Town
Hall, which in addition to providing realistic funding and facilities, will also bring
logistical and technical assistance (reservations and billing software).
The committee would like to remind everyone of the volunteers’ huge administrative
efforts and reiterate the worth of keeping this service within the association, given its
members’ management experience. This is why, to guarantee the survival of the
service, l’Outa’s committee needs each parent who uses the service to take
responsibility and get involved, notably by attending and standing for a position at
annual general meetings.
At the last AGM on 6 October, an auditor was chosen and 6 new committee members
appointed.
The office comprises the president Séverine Herbron, treasurer Véronique
Bouvier and secretary Géraldine Bersier.
The Mayor, Jean-Louis Battandier, is member of honour with Lionel Gaymard, Odile
Muller and Martine Philipp who represent the town council.
Seasonal workers:
You don’t need a car to work in Morzine...
Free shuttles, the Balad’Aulps Bus, regular scheduled bus routes from Thonon or
Cluses mean that seasonal workers can come to Morzine to work the winter season
without needing a car. In addition, measures have been implemented with regards
to parking facilities for camping cars or vans modified for sleeping. This winter there
will be no dedicated place for such vehicles. Drivers of these vehicles are expected
to adhere to existing parking regulations in the commune. Space for 15 empty
vehicles (ie, not destined for sleeping) will be made available on the outskirts of the
commune (near to Couard).
It would be appreciated if employers could relay this information to their staff and
by so doing, contribute to the collective effort to improve the general look of the
resort for our visitors.
Seasonal work
The Pôle Emploi’s seasonal offices opened on 5 October and will remain open until
March, every day from 9am-12pm and from 1.30pm-5pm (Friday closing at 4.30pm).
Employers are invited to address job offers to the office.
Contact: tel: 04 50 79 21 99.
The Seasonal workers’ welcome office (Le Point d’Accueil des Saisonniers) for
accommodation, jobs and transport queries is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and
Thursdays from 2pm-5pm.
Contact: Pierre-Eric Petitgonnet, tel: 06 43 37 70 62
[email protected]
These two services, put in place with the help of Morzine’s social welfare action
centre (Centre Communal d’Actions Sociales de Morzine), are located in Morzine on
the Route du Palais des Sports.
The Job Forum (le Forum de l’Emploi) took place in Morzine on 21 October.
A new childcare agreement
The Town Hall is negotiating with the Family
Allowance Agency (CAF) for a new childcare
agreement which will enable the development of
existing structures in Morzine and Avoriaz – which
began to offer after-school care at the start of this
academic year. Discussions are also under way to
crystallize the commune’s policies towards its
younger residents (une Politique Jeune de la Ville), to
take into account the needs of children and
teenagers up to 18 years.
Social housing
The municipal council is deciding on the pros and cons
of building social housing for year-round residents
which will be managed by an appointed landlord (Opah,
Halpades…) To have a better idea of residents’ needs,
the Town Hall would like to hear from all interested
parties who are invited to add their names to the official
List of Requirements, specifying the type of
accommodation needed (T1, T3…). This survey will help
to decide the layout of the new buildings and how they
are funded.
13
The Quality Commission: making Morzine even more welcoming
Since the last local elections, the Quality Commission has
recommenced its work with a group (1) appointed in October
2008, headed by councillor Gisèle Richard. Any desire to improve
quality is a delicate task; it is not enough to point the finger at
problems but instead to suggest ways of remedying them. In
addition, to take this principle further and in accordance with the
Charter for Durable Development - to which the commune is a
signatory – a steering committee is to be created comprising 3
parts: elected officials, businesses and clubs and societies. In
partnership with the Town Hall, Morzine’s economic players will
be brought on board in a more meaningful way, with a “win-win”
mentality.
To give an example, the first issues are traffic and parking.
Business owners are invited to provide parking for themselves
and their staff, but encourage their employees to leave their cars
at home. For its part, the Town Hall is willing to rethink parking
options throughout the commune, the ultimate aim being to
keep car parking spaces clear for customers.
As a first step this winter, a project is under way aimed at
employers who are being encouraged to dissuade their staff from
bringing their cars to the village. This “early-warning” system for
this winter’s workers will help to raise awareness of parking
problems here among employers and employees before the
winter starts. This is also a matter for employers who should not
shift this burden onto everyone’s shoulders, but rather tackle it in
The tools developed by l'ANMSM (2) with regards to assessing the the same way as they did when faced with finding
task ahead of us should lead to a holistic action plan whose aim is accommodation for their staff.
a better quality of life in Morzine. Everyone can help achieve this
goal according to their means. The debate concerning who (1): The commission is organised in three groups: “Heritage and Environment“,
controls this steering committee must soon be addressed the headed by Bernadette MARULLAZ, “Welcome” (Maurice DUTRUEL) and
“Traffic/parking” (Benoît TAVERNIER).
environment commission when it next sits.
(2) ANMSM: National Association of Mayors in Mountain Resorts.
Exhibitions and summer fairs
The Lind’art Festival (22 - 25 July) took place in Montriond
and Morzine with Nepal the guest of honour. The event also
featured seminars, photo exhibitions, storytelling and readings,
classical music recitals
and traditional Nepalese
music.
Art on High (Les Arts
d’en Haut)
(24-30 August): the
valley’s artists exhibited
their work at the Maison
du Bourg on the theme
of “Land and Sky”. This
year’s larger festival also
encompassed
street
Les Arts du Cirque’ troupe entertained those
in La Salle during the art on this festival
theatre. Adults and
children in 4 of Morzine’s
hamlets were able to learn circus skills, origami and African
dance. The theme for next year’s festival is “Women and
femininity…”
Theatre: Les Chemins de Traverse players presented a
show on the Palais des Sports’ main stage this summer. The first
performance in June was an adaptation of the Charles Perrault
oeuvre “Bluebeard (“Barbe Bleue”), followed by Eugène
Labiche’s “Rue Lourcine” in September.
The Maison du Bourg hosted a number of different art
exhibitions or themed displays, visible in its windows and from
the street. The library also presented numerous activities,
including exhibitions and shows...
Monday cinema (Lundi C’Cinoche)
Prompted by the culture commission and in collaboration with
Gilbert and Adrien Baud, Morzine-Avoriaz library and the Vallée
d’Aulps library network (which offers discounts to members)
have launched a series of impromptu art meetings in
September in the Colibri cinema at 8.30pm on Mondays. For
the time being and to reduce costs, all French and undubbed
foreign films come via the Thonon Arts Centre (MAL).
Attendance figures will be checked in three months to gage
whether to continue with this project. (Information on
screenings available at morzine.fr).
Retrospective on Morzine’s traditional buildings
Morzine’s traditional buildings from
the 19th and early 20th centuries
form the main thread of this booklet
published by the Haute-Savoie’s
Council for Architecture, Town
planning and the Environment
(CAUE). The publication received the
financial support of MorzineAvoriaz, the EU and the Conseil
général 74. After her 2007 book on
architecture in Avoriaz, author
Chantal Bourreau shifts her focus to agro-pastoral buildings in Morzine
and in neighbouring valleys: village chalets, mountain chalets, midmountain chalets, along with detail of the traits that show they are
from Morzine: la cort’na, la crôpe or slate roofs...Chantal’s booklet is
available at Morzine library.
Jean Vuarnet : 50th anniversary
of his Olympic downhill gold!
On 22 February 1960, Jean Vuarnet became
Olympic downhill skiing champion at
Squaw Valley (USA); next February, everyone
in Morzine will be turning out to celebrate
the 50th anniversary of the achievement
with the Olympic hero himself! The date for
your diaries is 22 February 2010, the venue is
Morzine Tourist Office, where a statue will be
unveiled portraying Vuarnet in the “egg”, or
tuck position. The organisers’ aim (the Town
Hall and tourist office) is to present a festive
day inspired by the Olympic ideal, while
demonstrating public support for the
Annecy 2018 bid; and if Morzine’s skiers are
selected, the chance to applaud the
upcoming 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics
in which Cyprien Richard (Giant Slalom,
Olivia Bertrand (Super G) and Yohann
Taberlet (sit-ski) could well feature.
Site internet : www.morzine.fr
14
Clubs and Associations news
LE SNOWBOARD CLUB D’AVORIAZ
FRENCH ALPINE CLUB OF THE HAUT-CHABLAIS (CAF)
Avoriaz Snowboard Club (part of Morzine-Avoriaz Ski Club), was
created in November 1995 as a family-friendly sporting association
where fun and a competitive spirit combine for everyone’s
enjoyment. The club’s younger members are encouraged to try all
disciplines: boardercross, slalom, half-pipe and slope style; the aim is
to make them flexible so they can appreciate every facet of the sport
of snowboarding. They can adapt their technique to different snow
conditions so that when the powder comes, they can really make the
most of it. Children and grown-ups help each other, encourage and
motivate one another: real team spirit! Among its members, the club
is boosted by two youngsters: Cécile, who competes in the European
half-pipe Cup, and Johann, who races in the World Cup boardercross
and half-pipe disciplines.
Training is in Avoriaz every Saturday afternoon (1.30pm-4.30pm) and
Sunday mornings (9am-12pm). During school holidays, a course is
organised every morning.
President: Anne-Sophie PARISOT
Contact: Anne BAISAMY,
79 Chemin du Chatelard, 74500 NEUVECELLE
tel: 04 50 74 62 19
The CAF is a club covering all mountain-related activities. Its main goal is to offer membership
(and insurance) to outdoor sports enthusiasts who have the choice between two federations:
- FFCAM: Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins de Montagne
- FFME : Fédération Française de la Montagne et de l’Escalade
The club organises three races in partnership with Mountain Rescue: La Crêve-Coeur (foot race
held in July) and two ski mountaineering events in the winter: La Picaron and La Montée du Crôt.
Since 2008, the club has offered climbing training to children aged 7-14 years every Thursday
evening at Saint Jean d’Aulps gym. Experienced adults are also welcome to climb on Thursdays
at the later time of 8pm-10pm. To do so, you must be a club member and have purchased either
the annual access card or the introductory membership card when you arrive. The club is looking
for volunteers to help with the organisation of races and to supervise the club’s activities.
President: Alain Premat
Contact: tel: 06 08 94 68 47 or email: [email protected] - www.cafmorzine.com
MORZINE-AVORIAZ HOCKEY-CLUB
PORTES DU SOLEIL JUDO CLUB
Created in 1963, the club has 268 members from Morzine and
neighbouring villages. Children can join from 4 years old. The club
operates all year and has state-registered coaches. Subs are 125€200€. The budget is 916 000€. The club works in partnership with
Saint Jean d’Aulps college to offer sports lessons which conform with
national curriculum guidelines. Many volunteers give their time to
help the club function, but more helpers are needed to ensure the
club’s survival! At the game’s highest level, our aim is to keep the first
team in the Magnus League to provide entertainment for tourists and
residents and at the same time uphold our responsibilities towards
training and mentoring youngsters by setting a good example.
President: François Garnaud
Contact: tel: 04 50 75 78 21 - fax: 04 50 75 78 19
Website: www.hcma.fr - Email: [email protected]
In judo, individuals make progress by helping each other and by making the most of their
collective strength. It is in this spirit and thanks to co-operation between the valley’s different
communes that the Portes du Soleil Judo Club has been such a success, numbering some 135
members in 2008/2009.
Judo is the gradual mastery of technique and concentration, and also of our emotions and
perceptions that are constantly refined as we are transformed by the discipline. Given our
mountain location, it is difficult to keep our younger members as they grow up, though some
have stayed loyal and continue to train or share their experience with new members. Mathilde
Cottet Emard (junior) and Anissa Minier (cadet) are two examples of members who have
managed to juggle studying with sport, coming back regularly to the club. Thanks to their
determination, they succeeded at both levels and the 2008/2009 season was excellent because
of them.
The girls took the same route to the nationals: departmental champions, regional vicechampions and French champions (FSGT) 2008/2009. A magnificent performance by our Portes
du Soleil judokates! Mathilde, as French FSGT champion, went on to Liège in Belgium for the
European Championships, where she finished 3rd – an achievement that has inspired our young
judokas…it is worth remembering that competition begins at a young age. The club has a group
of competing juniors who turned in satisfactory results in their first year of competition. Léo
Tenaud (junior) finished 3rd in the department and 5th in the region. Axelle Bouwet, Hava-nur
Karademir, Sacha Asselin, Charly Devilette, Thomas Cautrupt, Baptiste Jaques Sermet and
Mathieu Sagot finished 6th in the department.
Judo is a fun, educational and rounded sport. Above all, it promotes fundamental values. Judo
teaches life skills. Loyal to this philosophy, the Portes du Soleil Judo Club is a friendly place where
all kinds of people meet. We accept children from 4 years and adults up to 99 years (!) for training
dojos in Morzine, Saint-Jean d’Aulps and Les Gets. All lessons are held by a 3rd Dan-level stateregistered instructor.
Morzine school gym – Mondays 5.30pm-6.30pm - introductory session; 7pm-8.30pm taiso, judo, jujitsu for adults. Wednesdays 3.30pm-4.30pm - introductory session 1st year;
4.30pm-6pm - judo 7-9yrs; 6pm -7.30pm - judo 10-13yrs. Friday 7.30pm-9pm - katas, judo for
teenagers and adults.
St Jean d’Aulps dojo: Tuesdays 5pm-6pm - introductory session; 6pm-7.30pm - judo 7-9yrs.
Thursdays 5pm-6pm - introductory judo 1st year; 6pm-7.30pm - judo 10-13yrs; 7.30pm-8.30pm
- taiso.
Les Gets dojo: Wednesdays 10.30am-11.30am - introductory judo.
Annual subs including federal licence: introductory judo: 162€, over 7yrs: 207€, adults: 207€,
taiso: 182€.
Information: 06 61 76 30 40 or 06 11 53 92 11.
AVORIAZ ESF
The ski school brings together 180 instructors (with independent
worker status) who teach and guide all popular snowsports (downhill
skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, telemark, sit-skiing and
snowshoe trekking). Technical tests are held every week (for children:
flèches, chamois, étoiles) as well as numerous races for working
groups or visiting clubs. The ESF is also responsible for teaching
school pupils from Morzine and Avoriaz (downhill skiing,
snowboarding, cross-country skiing) free of charge. Our ESF
instructors participate in snow-based events and shows and give
their time for free to oversee official timekeeping of the ski
mountaineering races La Montée du Crôt and La Trophée des Hauts
Forts. The ESF’s responsibilities also extend to playing an active role in
the tourist life of the resort – torchlit descents, demonstrations, trick
shows, etc - in partnership with the tourist office and with the
support of the lift company and mountain safety teams.
Avoriaz ESF has two sales and reservation offices: Cap Neige (at the
top of the resort) open from 8.30am-6pm (tel: 04 50 74 04 83) and by
the cable car arrival area (Place du téléphérique at the bottom of the
resort) open from 8.30am-6pm. (Tel: 04 50 74 05 65) with 7
receptionists to take your call and answer your questions.
Online registration and bookings: www.esfavoriaz.com. The principal
meeting point for lessons is on the Avoriaz plateau for adults and
children (for group and private lessons).
President: Didier GRANDPERRET
ESF AVORIAZ Place du téléphérique 74110 Avoriaz
tel: 04 50 74 05 65 - - fax: 04 50 74 10 14
Email: [email protected] - www.esf-avoriaz.com
BUREAU DES GUIDES DE MORZINE - GUIDING
The association is the umbrella organization for high and mid-mountain guides. The office and
reception are open from May to September. The office works in partnership with activity
providers for rafting, paragliding, forest adventure trails, potholing…
President: Frédéric Buet
Contact: tel: 06 80 89 35 14 or 04 50 75 96 65 - Website: www.bureaudesguides.net
Note to club secretaries:
If your club or society does not feature here, it will do so in the next
newsletter.
For those who have yet to supply their details, please contact Maryline
Muffat at the Town Hall, tel: 04 50 79 04 79.
MultiPass – Year 1 report
Launched this summer, the MultiPass was a hit with visitors who were delighted make the most of the many advantages associated with the scheme.
Throughout the Portes du Soleil, 20 000 people participated, 5% above financial estimates; 203 830 people purchased the daily 1€ MultiPass and 25 360
people chose the 6€ version. Some 2010 people purchased the season MultiPass.
Morzine was a major factor in the initiative’s success, selling 54 000, 1€
MultiPasses and nearly 900 season MultiPasses.
Trends
The value of this new loyalty scheme is vindicated by the numbers involved:
- At Morzine reservations centre, bookings for MultiPass accommodation providers
was higher than non-participating landlords by 11%-18 % depending on the
period!
- at the ice rink, numbers were up nearly 40%, thanks to the MultiPass,
- at the pool complex, of 83 600 visitors, 39 079 were MultiPass holders,
- The Balad’Aulps Bus saw a 50% rise in passenger numbers (12 057) compared with
2008, 60% of whom carried the MultiPass,
- The lift company and tennis club saw a significant increase in visitor numbers
(TBA).
It should be remembered that the excellent summer weather undoubtedly played
an important part in the higher demand for outdoor activities.
With 83 600 visitors compared with 59 344 in 2008, the pool complex was
regularly topped up, thanks to a 41% rise in demand
The town’s police force has moved
On 2 October, Mayor Jean-Louis Battandier declared the town’s police headquarters open,
together with the town council, Gendarmerie representatives including Lieutenant
Melmoux, firefighters (chief Thierry Bassani), Services Director General Evelyne McQuiston,
town police officers, firms and council staff involved in the project. The new headquarters
are close to the bus station (la gare routière), near the Place du Plan. The force’s head officer,
Alexandre Bichat, along with 2 other full-time officers - Benoît Martin and Sandrine Du Lau
D’allemans – now operate from spacious and functional premises that are pleasant to work
in. Seasonal reinforcements are due to join them at the beginning of December.
Police Municipale, tel: 04 50 79 05 21
The Tour de France
back in Morzine
From Saturday 3 to Sunday 25 July 2010, the 97th Tour de
France péloton sets off for 20 stages over nearly 3 600km.
Welcoming Le Tour is a huge promotional opportunity for the
commune that also provides a wonderful festival of sport for
residents and visitors. Financially, the event will bring many
tens of thousands (and perhaps hundreds of thousands!) of
visitors, plus a rolling village of nearly 4 500 people (race
organisers, team support, guests, logistics, journalists...).
For Morzine, it is a great honour and remarkable stroke of luck
that we’ve been chosen to host a stage finish, a rest day and
stage departure; we must make the most of it!
That we’ve been chosen is also recognition of our savoir-faire
in organising major events; Morzine has hosted Le Tour 17
times already, Avoriaz 6 times.
From the Jura to the Alps…
Sunday 11 July: 8th stage arrives in Avoriaz (189 km) from
Les Rousses (Jura) and the 1st major mountain stage
(arriving via the Col de la Ramaz and Les Gets).
Monday 12 July: rest day.
Tuesday 13 July: 9th stage departs (204 km) from Morzine
to Saint Jean de Maurienne, via the mountain passes of La
Colombière, Les Aravis and Les Saisies, then the Col de la
Madeleine. These four climbs make this stage the major
Alpine section.
15
Civil announcements
BIRTHS
7 April: Chiara FOURCADE, a daughter for Hervé and Anne JAEKLÉ
10 April: Dorota ELIAN, a daughter for Christian and Tereza TOPICOVA
13 April: Hugo ROSSET, a son for Maxime and Aurélie ARNAUD
14 April: Enzo BLANC, a son for Cédric and Fanny de
BEAUMONT
24 April: Noémie EMPTAZ, a daughter for Benoît and Stéphanie
BESSIERE
1 May: Ethan GRIME, a son for Gérôme and Christine PAJOT
25 May: Nunzio GALLO, a son for Jérôme and Céline CASIER
30 May: Kéo FÉLISAZ, a son for Christophe and Nadège BAUD
12 June: Hugo NEURAZ, a son for Philippe and Stéphanie BAUD
22 July: Lucie SEIDEL, a daughter for Ludovic and Sonia PARISOT
24 July: Callum STEPHEN, a son for Malcolm and Sarah JOY
31 July: Antoine GUIBERTEAU, a son for Julien and Christelle GUNTZ
7 August: Kelly COLLOMBAR, a daughter for Hervé and Sandrine
VAN LERENBERGHE
19 August: Sonny EASTWOOD, a son for Jason and Emmanuelle ROSSET
DEATHS
31 March: Monique DUHOT, née VERBRUGGE, 82
20 April: Michel DUPRAZ, 71
20 April: Pascal RODRIGUEZ, 90
12 May: Marthe BAUD, 93
14 May: Marie GROUT, née PREMAT, 93
16 May: Albert MARULLAZ, 59
12 June: Jean RICHARD, 76
23 June: Rosine MARULLAZ, née RICHARD, 70
24 June: Marie-Louise TROMBERT, née LAVANCHY, 99
21 July: Claire BRIOIS, 88
30 July: Marie, Pernette PASSAQUIN, 97
10 August: Roger THEUIL, 85
13 August: Henri MARULLAZ, 65
10 September: Françoise THORENS, née BAUD, 74
20 September: Olivier HEU, 46
28 September: Jean-Paul BERGERET, 52
30 September: Jean-Claude FERNANDEZ, 56
6 October: Claudine MARULLAZ, née GROROD, 78
Coming up
Congrats, Céline Gros!
By finishing 3rd in September’s World
Cup Finals in Schladming, Austria,
Céline confirmed her 5th place World
Cup ranking and her podium finish* and with it a crystal globe. Céline had 6
World Cup podium finishes from 7 races
(she did not race in South Africa), and
also won the French Championships
and the French Cup, while also finishing 3rd in the European Championships...Morzine
sends her a massive bravo!
* MTB podiums cover the first five finishers
And bravo! to Olivia Bertrand for winning the 2009 French
Super G Championships.
A MESSAGE FROM THE HAUTE-SAVOIE GENDARMERIE...
BE VIGILANT ABOUT BURGLARS!
MARRIAGES
16 May: Simon DIDES & Caroline COUTANT
30 May: Eric BAUD & Emmanuelle OBRINGER
30 May: Jean-Noël SIVA & Laëtitia BERGER
30 May: Julien VERNAY & Eléonore RICHARD
13 June: Gaël TANGUY & Gwenaelle BRON
20 June: Oliver LANGRISH & Philippa SYME
20 June: Jean DOMINONI & Laurence BOCH
4 July: Laurent TABERLET & Alexandrine BAUD
4 July: Bruno GONCKEL & Sandra BERGER
29 August: Jonathan DREDGE & Samantha THOMAS
12 September: Sébastien ROGUET & Pauline LEBAS
19 September: Modou DIOUM & Liliane BAUD
26 September: Jonathan DUNN & Victoria WILLIAMSON
MTB downhilling:
The Gendarmerie Nationale is watching. Don’t give burglars any opportunity.
To help us beat them:
- report anything unusual that you see around your home, in your community or at
neighbours’ houses,
- deter would-be thieves by securing your home (shutters, burglar alarm…),
- make the burglar’s task harder by hiding valuables in places that only you and close
family/friends know about,
- take photographs of your valuables (furniture, computers, jewellery...),
- avoid letting anyone who you do not know into your home, and do not be over-trusting of
door-to-door salesmen (particularly if you are elderly),
- make a note of suspect vehicle registration numbers and try to make out what the occupants
look like,
- tell your local force if you plan to go away for an extended period and ensure that your
property looks lived-in (ask a neighbour to collect your post, put lighting on a timer…)
Don’t be afraid to dial 17 if you see something strange!
Crime is not an unavoidable fact of life that we have to feel powerless about: it is everyone’s
responsibility to ensure that it does not happen to others.
Publicity hoarding do’s and don’t’s – get the facts!
Rules regarding advertising hoardings have been in place since January 2006 which define
clearly which panels and signs (large and small) are authorised. These rules stipulate the
materials, format, colours and lighting that is or is not allowed according to the area where
the business is based. Any business owners wanting to erect or change their advertising
hoardings are therefore requested to ensure that these conform to current rules available
at the Town Hall’s town planning unit. tel: 04 50 79 04 82.
Please note: the Town Hall, as is stipulated in the relevant legislation, has the right to take
down new advertising panels which do not conform to the rules.
NOVEMBER
Saturday 14 and Sunday 15:
Soirées patois at the Palais des Sports
Sunday 22: Firefighters’ prize draw at the Palais des Sports
Friday 27:
Belote competition hosted by the Sporting Club Vallée
d’Aulps at the Palais des Sports
Sunday 29: Primary school prize draw at the Palais des Sports
Sunday 6: Christmas market underneath the covered hallway
DECEMBER
Saturday 12 and Sunday 13: Fête de la Glisse (ski &
snowboard test) in Avoriaz;
French Snowboard Cup in Avoriaz
JANUARY
Saturday 12 and Sunday 13:
The Grand Odyssey husky race in MorzineAvoriaz
9 -15 January: Avoriaz Cabaret
A NOTE FROM MORZINE POST OFFICE…
Over the last three years all the streets in Morzine and Avoriaz have been given a name
and number. Officially, addresses no longer bear a place name reference. Hence on letters
there is no longer any need to address any correspondence with “crusaz”, “meuniers” or
“bois venants”, but rather with the correct number and street name. So that your post
arrives as quickly as possible, the Post Office advises that you write addresses in this
manner. Please also remember to keep your post box accessible come rain or shine; it
should be located on the edge of your property. Morzine Post Office is available to meet
business owners and residents to update addresses in your commune.