Building Europe...

President Sarkozy and Obama were interviewed on television last evening and it was a first. This shows how tough the times are. We're trying to build a unified Europe, but it's not easy (like it was probably not easy to build the United States over 200 years ago). They talked about friendship, confidence and trust. Of course these are politician words, but still, it felt good to have some support (even if the US economy is not exactly in better shape than the one of Europe actually. But who's counting?!) Have good weekend everyone, how about a little Ouzo with your Pasta?

Spelling Bee

Only in France? Yes probably... During the past months about 5000 7th grade pupils throughout France took part in a huge spelling bee competition. The final was broadcast yesterday evening on national television ! I'm sure it was a huge success as, for the French, getting the right spelling is like a national sport! Before, adults would even take part in it... Why? Because we suffer so much with our grammar rules and weird spelling that once we sort of master them, it becomes like a game...

French Television

I happened to have a meeting near the first French TV channel (TF1) recently (technically they are not located in Paris, but in the suburbs) and I took advantage of it to take this photo. We have 6 main channels in France plus a about 12 other ones of lesser importance. On top of that we also have Cable television (which is more DSL television) and more and more video on demand, which I'm very fond of. I like the French TV system actually as there is a wide range (from the very cultural public channels to the very commercial ones). If you want to improve your French while watching TV, have a look at this and this. You won't be able to watch everything (for rights reason), but some of it.

Revolution at France Televisions!

I know my British visitors will find it normal, but it may come as a surprise to the American ones (as for the others, I'd like to know), as of today, there will be no more advertising between 8 pm and 6 am on the French public television! Consequence: for the first time in 40 years or so (when advertising on TV was introduced in France) prime time programs started tonight at 8:35 instead of 8:50 / 55. It's only 20 minutes, but it makes a huge difference, especially for the private channels who are likely to lose market share... Some people say the Public television will lose too much funding because of this new rule, but I hope not, because, let me tell you, it's really cool not to have to wait for the advertising to stop before watching the programs.

The Debate!

I'm on vacation at the moment so I'm not sure I'll bee able to watch the debate between Nicolas Sarkozy and Ségolène Royal that is taking place tonight (on Wednesday evening) on the French television. According to polls, this debate will be watched by at least 20 million people, which is one of the highest ratings for French TV (only soccer can beat that!). Needless to say that the stake is very very high, as polls show that either candidate could win...
PS: I am currently on vacation so I cannot reply to your comments. I'll read them when I return, on May 7.