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Norway’s Crown Princely couple will release a Christmas CD on Monday, November 14th to help raise money for disadvantaged youths through their charity fund. Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit will not be singing on the album, but the project is all theirs.
 Click here to see more photos of the couple and their family “We are very pleased that these particular artists have taken the challenge from the Fund and will work with us to strengthen young people’s opportunities. We think the album project has been an exciting musical profile,” Haakon said in a statement.
It was the Crown Prince who approached Universal Music records about this idea.
The artists featured on the CD – called We Light Our Lanterns – include many of Norway’s young singers. They are: Ida Jenshus, Gunhild Sundli, Thomas Dybdahl, Moddi, Samsaya, Marit Larsen & Garness, Ingrid Olava, Katzenjammer, Stein Torleif Bjella and Vinni. These artists were approached because the Crown Princely couple felt Norwegian youth would respond to them positively.
“Working with youth is both one of the most important and some of the things we do,” said Mette Marit in a statement. “Many young people have the resources that are not captured, and for some it can be a major challenge. Through the fund, we want to ensure that young people are seen, so they can use their capabilities and contribute to the community. When we are better equipped to create the Norway we want for the future.”
One of the artists, Ida Jenshus, said this about the CD: “I think it is healthy and good to focus on those who have difficult in such a feast as Christmas. There are at least as many who dread this time, as those who rejoice. Those who fall outside the idyll. It’s good someone wants to make a difference and help. Too many are indifferent.”
Sources: kronprinsparetsfond.no, VG.no
 Click here to read more at Daily Mail Thursday night saw the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge quietly go to a charity gala at St. James Palace in London. The event was held by the 100 Women in Hedge Funds, a charity Prince William supports, and it raised money for the Child Bereavement Charity, another one the Prince supports.
Before the gala kicked off, William gave a speech where he discussed the pride he felt for both organizations.
“I find it enormously rewarding and gratifying to observe how two organisations which mean so much to me are working so superbly with one another,” he said.
“What you are both doing together to alleviate the suffering of children who have lost family members, and bereaved families who have experienced the tragedy of losing a child, is beyond praise.”
The event raised £675,000 for the Child Bereavement Charity.
About 300 women from the hedge fund sector joined the Duke and Duchess for the gala.
William wore a black tie tuxedo while his wife, Catherine, dazzled in a red low cut dress with billowing sleeves. The dress was designed by Beulah London.
Source: Daily Mail
Britain’s Prince Harry may be known for his partying ways, but he is also known for his caring side, particularly when it comes to children. Wednesday evening saw him in London giving awards on behalf of WellChild, which His Royal Highness is patron of.
 Click here for more images at Daylife.com With sad irony, Wednesday was also the 14th anniversary of his mother, Princess Diana’s death. It was she who taught Harry and his brother, Prince William, to be compassionate towards others, and that shined through today as the Prince met with seriously ill children and their families.
Among them, Katie Moore’s two daughters, Molly, age 8 and Daisy, age 6. Two years ago, Molly suffered a brain hemorrhage and now uses a wheelchair and is unable to speak, swallow or use most of her body. It is her little sister who has been taking care of Molly since.
According to Katie Moore, Daisy sings songs to her big sister and brings friends around to visit her.
And that is why Daisy got the WellChild award for most caring child.
Before the ceremony, the sisters met with Prince Harry during a reception.
“Daisy didn’t really say much, I think she was too nervous,” said Katie.
“But we talked about how the big sister, little sister roles had changed around, and how it was unusual and how inspirational Daisy is. He was great,” she added of Harry.
The Prince also awarded 6 year old Harley Lane, who lost his hands and feet to meningitis two years ago, and now has prosthetic limbs. Despite this, little Harley has amazed all those around him for being so brave. Even Prince Harry told him was a “hero”.
Another child honored Wednesday was 5 year old Sophie Cooper, who has cerebral palsy. Although unable to talk, she is learning to communicate and Harry spent some time talking to her.
According to St. James’ Palace, it was by coincidence that the WellChild awards ceremony fell on August 31st.
Prince Harry once said this about his mother: “I particularly always wonder what she’d think, what she’d be doing if she was with us now. That’s what keeps us going every day.”
Source: Press Association, Telegraph, Daily Mail
 Click here for more images at Daylife.com! In their first appearance in Monaco since their July nuptials, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene were all smiles and walked hand in hand into the Sporting Club in Monte Carlo for the 63rd annual Red Cross Ball – a major event for the principality.
Behind the couple were Albert’s two sisters: Princess Stephanie and Princess Caroline, who made her first appearance at the Ball since 2008. There is no word on what made her turn up for this year’s gala. Perhaps to show solidarity with her new sister-in-law.
Some fashion reporters noted Charlene’s hair was reminiscent of the late Princess Grace. Either way, the new Princess looked stunning in her dark fuschia strapless gown designed by Swiss designer Akris.
800 Monegasque and international guests paid 1000 eurors to be at the Ball. Entertainment was done by Joe Cocker.
Monaco resident Shirley Bassey, known for singing theme songs to James Bond films, was responsible for organizing the evening and a raffle with lots of prestige. The annual gala sees the Monegasque Red Cross collect about 400,000 euros.
Source: Le Parisien
Earlier this week, the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, donated $1 million to help the people of Somalia, who are suffering from famine as a result of drought.
 Click here for more photos Abdullah Al Maatouq, the President of the International Islamic Charitable Organisation (IICO), praised the Emir for his donation.
“His Highness the Emir has stressed his commitment to alleviate the severe suffering of the people of Somalia and his confirmation of the importance of providing them with the necessary support and emergency relief to avoid more victims,” he said, quoted by Kuwait News Agency (Kuna).
“His Highness the Emir has directed the IICO to organise a public campaign in coordination with similar organisations and charities in Kuwait to collect donations for the benefit of the victims in Somalia who suffer from severe drought.”
On Tuesday, the Secretary General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-Moon called Sheikh Sabah and thanked him for his efforts. In response, the Emir told Ban that his country will continue to help the people in the Horn of Africa. He also expressed his wish to see the international community to step up in their efforts.
Source: Gulf News, Qatar News Agency
The Swedish royal court recently published an interview with Princess Madeleine where she briefly discussed working for World Childhood Foundation in the United States. The Princess has been living in New York City for well over a year, and while the reasons for that are not fully clear, this interview is likely an attempt to ease criticism that Madeleine is wasting tax payers’ money by doing little but shop and have fun.
 Read more of Madeleine's interview here First, she was asked what she does for WCF, which was set up by her mother, Queen Silvia in 1999 to give children better childhoods around the world.
“I am a project administrator at Childhood’s office in New York,” Madeleine began. “Every day is slightly different, but if I were to describe a day at the office it would involve fairly normal office work. I arrive at the office in the morning, go through my e-mails, read reports, communicate with the projects or deal with any other tasks on my desk for the day. I sometimes attend meetings with various companies in order to try to build new corporate contacts so that Childhood can grow in the US.”
Next, Madeleine described project visits, which it has been reported by WCF is something she often does.
“You can always read about a project, but getting out and meeting the children who receive help or hearing directly from the enthusiasts who run the projects is completely different. It’s fantastic being able to hear their stories and to listen to them when they talk about their day-to-day work, their setbacks, but also their many successes and the progress they’ve made. That gives me the energy to want to do more and get involved more.”
The Princess also confirmed that by the fall, she will be returning to New York to continue working and expanding WCF. However, it is unknown when she will return to Sweden and perform any royal engagements as it is expected of any royal of any country.
Source: Swedish Royal Court
These past five days have been a whirlwind for newlyweds Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. Starting on Thursday, the couple made their first official duties and appearances since their April 29th wedding. These engagements included charity galas, milestone birthday celebrations and traditional royal events.
 Click here to see pics of their arrival Throughout these five days, Catherine kept her cool and showcased that she can handle making public appearances. She showed no sign of uneasiness and went along with a warm smile, as well as William’s guiding hand gently placed on her back.
On Thursday, the couple went to the ARK (Absolute Return to Kids) 10th anniversary charity gala dinner, where they were this year’s guests. They attended on behalf of the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry. The function is co-organized by Arpad Busson and Ian Wace, and it focuses on raising money for needy children worldwide.
Crowds who had gathered to see the couple cheered and gasped when Catherine emerged from the limousine. The Duchess had displayed once again her amazing fashion sense by showing up in a glitterly pink gown made by Jenny Packham.
Once inside, William and Catherine chatted with the guests that included actor Colin Firth, socialite Jemima Khan, Liz Hurley and Greek royals, Crown Prince Pavlos and Princess Marie Chantal.
During the dinner, the Prince gave a speech where he said “My brother, Catherine and I hope to use our philanthropy as a long-term catalyst for meaningful change.”
“Programs from this partnership will raise aspirations, broaden horizons and encourage young people to achieve what may have seemed to them unachievable,” said the Prince
“It will generate opportunities in education for young people in the United Kingdom and then later expand beyond our shores, initially to projects in sub-Saharan Africa.”
 Click here to see more photos Later on Saturday, Catherine took part in her first Trooping the Colour event, which celebrates Queen Elizabeth II’s 85th birthday. At the same time, Prince William took part for the first time in the ceremonial parade on horseback.
Wearing the bearskin hat that nearly covered his eyes, William wore the same uniform he wore at his wedding as he rode a horse with the Household Cavalry. Behind the Cavalry were the British royals in their carriages, waving and smiling to the well wishers.
On the balcony of Buckingham Palace, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge joined the extended House of Windsor to watch the fly over from the Royal Air Force.
This year’s Trooping the Colour marked the first time three generations of British royals participated.
On Sunday, the royals attended church service at St. George’s Cathedral at Windsor to celebrate the Queen’s husband, Prince Philip’s 90th birthday. That was followed by a reception at the Castle in which some of the Greek royals attended.
 Click here to see more photos Monday saw the Order of the Garter Service, which Prince William was inducted to a few years ago. Catherine attended that event back when she was simply his significant other. But now, as his wife, she had more of a chance to interact with the awaiting crowds. Her stepmother-in-law, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, encouraged her to step forward more in order for the people to see her.
If any still doubt the love between William and Catherine, they need not do so anymore. When the Prince, dressed in the Order’s traditional garments, paraded by his wife, she gave him a simple grin. To which, he smiled back and blushed.
Later this month, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will visit families of those killed in Afghanistan. Towards the end of June, they will also embark on a tour of North America which will take them across Canada and into California.
Judging by the way Catherine has held herself during these past whirlwind days, she will certainly do a regal job for the tour.
Sources: Daily Mail, Telegraph
Thursday night saw glamour come back to Monaco as Princess Caroline attended the AMADE charity gala. It was refreshing to see the Princess again after she – plus other members of Monaco’s princely family – was absent from the Rose Ball because of the death of her aunt, Princess Antoinette.
 Click here to see more pics Caroline may still be in mourning, based on her simple outfit featuring a long black skirt and matching jacket. Her mood seemed somber.
But if anyone could lighten up the event, it was her two eldest children, Andrea and Charlotte Casiraghi. Charlotte dazzled as always in a floral strapless dress that was colored yellow.
Big brother Andrea wore some interesting shoes to go with his tuxedo. His girlfriend, Tatiana Santo Domingo, wore a gown with black and white stripes at the skirt, probably to go with her boyfriend’s shoes – or vice versa.
The charity gala included a stand-up comedian and an auction of artworks and unique items to raise funds that will go in aid to needy children worldwide.
Started by Princess Grace, AMADE (World Association of Children’s Friends) seeks to do just that. Princess Caroline is the charity’s president.
Source: ¡Hola!
Queen Silvia of Sweden was the picture of health when she attended the World Childhood Foundation gala in Hillsboro Beach, Florida this weekend. The Queen had been ill with the flu for a while and had to cancel appearances, most notably a state visit to Botswana.
 Click here to see more pics of the event “I feel much better,” Her Majesty told reporters.
Silvia was joined by her youngest daughter, Princess Madeleine, who has been in Florida doing projects for WCF, set up in 1999 by her mother.
The charity gala included 220 guests, such as golfer Jesper Parnevik, Anders Bagge, and Andreas Carlsson. Singer Josh Groban provided the entertainment. The event was held in the home of honorary consul Per Olof Lööf.
After Florida, the Queen will fly to New York City to receive the Health and Human Rights at the Mandarin Hotel.
She will also spend a few days with Madeleine, who has been living in the Big Apple for months. It is speculated Queen Silvia will take time to meet with the Princess’ new beau, Chris O’Neill.
Source: Svensk Damtidning
Britain’s Prince Harry is on top of the world – and not because his brother is getting married in one month.
 Click here for more Prince Harry in the Arctic pics He is trekking across the North Pole with wounded soldiers, all in the name of charity for his country’s veteran organizations. The journey will go 200 miles and will last for four weeks.
However, the Prince will only be with the soldiers for the first five days. This way, he would be back in time for brother William’s April 29th wedding. Harry arrived in Norway’s Svalbard archipelago after throwing William’s bachelor party over the weekend.
That meant the Prince didn’t have much time for this trek.
“I haven’t had as much time to train,” he told the Press Association news agency in Longyearbyen, Norway, where he and the soldiers will train for three days. “But today, to their huge amusement, they’re going to see me on a pair of, whatever they’re called, skis, this afternoon. So it should be entertaining for all of us.”
As patron of the Walking With The Wounded charity, Prince Harry – who once spent 10 weeks fighting in Afghanistan – aims to raise £2 million for the organization.
Joining the Prince will are Walking With The Wounded co-founders, Simon Dalglish and Ed Parke, plus four servicemen wounded in Afghanistan: Capt. Martin Hewitt, 30, whose right arm was paralyzed after being shot; Capt. Guy Disney, 29, whose right leg was amputated below the knee after he was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade; Pvt. Jaco Van Gass, 24, from South Africa, whose left arm was amputated and Sgt. Stephen Young, 28, whose back was broken when his vehicle was blown up by a makeshift bomb.
The group will be lead by Norwegian polar guide Inge Solheim.
Source: AP
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