Evening Update Monday 15th of July 2024

NEWS
Violence Warning Following Trumps Assassination Attempt - French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin warned of potential political violence in France after an assassination attempt on former U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday in Pennsylvania. He emphasized that political issues should be resolved electorally, not through violence, and expressed concern about the influence of U.S. political violence to France. Darmanin also criticized social media for polarizing society and pointed out the role of violent rhetoric by some political figures. He highlighted the death threats received by political figures, including the French President, and warned against incitements to political violence, noting risks from radical Islamism and extremist groups on both the far right and far left.

Heatwave - The sun is expected to shine throughout the day today Monday 15th July, on the Côte d’Azur with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees. However, the rest of France faces a different forecast, as 22 departments have been placed on an orange weather alert by Meteo France due to anticipated storms. This warning, effective from 3 PM, primarily affects the Centre and Northeast regions. In the south, temperatures will range from 26°C in Nice to 29°C in Antibes, with inland areas expecting up to 32°C such as Guillaumes and Puget-Théniers.

Baccaleaurate Successful Results - Monaco’s government has congratulated students in the Principality for achieving an outstanding 97% success rate in the Baccalaureate exams across all programs. Students were commended for their dedication and hard work, which contributed to these excellent results. The government also expressed gratitude to both teaching and non-teaching staff for their support in achieving these impressive outcomes.

Drug Delivery Service - Police have arrested three individuals in their mid-twenties for operating a home delivery service for drugs, including cannabis and cocaine in Nice . The lucrative business, which serviced areas from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat to Cannes and Antibes to Grasse, was organized via WhatsApp. The case is set to be judged by the criminal court at the end of July. Meanwhile, the prosecution has requested that the three defendants be placed in pre-trial detention.

No Internet in 3 Cummunes - Three communes in the PACA region – Saint-Laurent-du-Var, Carros, and Saint-Jeannet – have been without internet for over two months. Residents, feeling cut off from the world, have been frustrated by the lack of resolution. Attempts to fix the issue reveal that the problem stems from Orange, with the matter being passed to other operators. Despite the delay, authorities state that the fault requires complex work and special authorizations. Repairs are currently underway, and service is expected to resume in the coming days.

Eze-Village During Final Stage of the Tour de France - A few days before the final stage of the Tour de France on July 21st, Eze-village, a small commune between Monaco and Nice, is less than thrilled. The village will be completely closed from 9 AM to 7 PM for the event, prohibiting cars and buses from passing through. Accessible only by foot, pedestrians can expect a one-hour walk due to the road closures. Restaurants will be forced to close, resulting in an estimated loss of 50,000 euros for local businesses. However, the deputy head of the tourist office assures that this prestigious event will shine a spotlight on the village.

Shepherd's Dog Shot - More than €10,000 has been raised in a campaign to support a shepherd’s dog that was shot in May in Cailles, in the Alpes-Maritimes. With these funds, the young shepherd has purchased equipment to protect his dogs and sheep. An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances of the attack on the dog.
Cagnotte : Il s’appelait Sabor - Leetchi.com

 

BUSINESS
China's economy grew 4.7% in the three months to June, missing their 5% target. The ongoing meeting in Beijing (Third Plenum) aims to address challenges like the property crisis, local debt, weak consumption, and high unemployment. Analysts doubt immediate impacts, focusing on long-term reforms. Home prices fell sharply, retail sales grew only 2%, and small banks face high exposure to housing debt. Beijing plans to boost high-tech industries and exports despite trade barriers from the EU and the US.

And - Apple launched its Vision Pro VR headset in the UK and Europe, priced at £3,499. Initial turnout was low, reflecting doubts about VR's mainstream appeal. Meta's competing Quest 3 costs under £500. VR remains niche due to limited content and issues like the headsets’ bulk and VR sickness. Analysts recommend patience, citing the iPhone's gradual adoption. Future devices may become lighter and more user-friendly, resembling glasses.

 

SPORTS
Football – England fell to a 2-1 defeat against Spain in the Euro 2024.
Meanwhile, Argentina beat Colombia to win a record 16th Copa America, but the game was marred by the kick-off being delayed by 80 minutes because of trouble outside the ground in Miami.

Golf - Emotional Robert MacIntyre vowed to "celebrate hard" after winning the one he wanted with a stunning Scottish Open triumph on home soil amid rapturous scenes.

Rugby Union - Wales will give opportunities to fringe players to impress in their final tour game against Queensland Reds on Friday. Warren Gatland's side lost the Test series against Australia 2-0 and finish their three-match trip with a friendly in Brisbane against the Super Rugby side.

Cycling - Tadej Pogacar took a huge step towards reclaiming the Tour de France title as he produced another superb ride to secure a second straight stage win.


WEATHER
Bright and clear with a gentle breeze. Highs of 27 degrees in Nice, 28 in Cannes and Toulon, 29 in Marseille, and 33 degrees in Saint-Tropez.
Tonight, clear skies with temperatures