NEWS
17 Year Old Boy, Previously Abducted, Spotted - A 17-year-old boy that had been abducted earlier this week has been found injured at a known drug-dealing spot in Avignon. He was kidnapped by two individuals, reportedly over a €2,000-€2,500 drug debt, and forced to work after being beaten. Police are investigating the incident.
Alleged Embezzlement - A search has been conducted as part of an investigation into alleged embezzlement of public funds during Eric Ciotti's 2022 legislative campaign at Nice Port. Police seized computers to examine the use of free parking badges linked to Ciotti and his staff. Ciotti has denied wrongdoing, calling the probe a "political manipulation."
Farmers Protest - Provence farmers are continuing protests this week, with gatherings planned on Friday, involving tractors and leaflet distribution near Aix-en-Provence. Some actions target large retailers, and more protests may follow next week during agriculture-related meetings. Farmers are demanding better wages and support for the sector.
Farmer Promotes Transparency and Wellbeing of his Cows on Social Media - Adrien Blua, a 28-year-old dairy farmer, shares his life and that of his Montbéliarde cows with over 30,000 followers on social media, promoting transparency and animal welfare in the Var. While balancing his farm work, he uses Instagram and Facebook to showcase the daily lives of his cows and address public curiosity about sustainable farming. Blua also opposes the EU-Mercosur trade deal, advocating for fair agriculture practices and better farmer remuneration.
Nice has been Named Most Popular Destination in the World - Nice has been named the most popular destination in the world for a weekend getaway in 2024 by travel agency Titan Travel, surpassing London and Paris. Using metrics like TikTok and Instagram posts and Google search trends, Nice stood out for its Mediterranean charm, historic landmarks, and attractions like the Promenade des Anglais and Colline du Château. The city's vibrant culture and scenery continue to captivate tourists globally.
Electric Ants - Electric ants, an invasive species native to Central and South America, have been detected again in the Var. These ants pose risks to biodiversity and human health, yet no eradication efforts have been undertaken despite EU regulations requiring invasive species removal within three months of detection. Researchers warn that without swift action, these ants will continue spreading, disrupting ecosystems and increasing control costs.
Preserving tradition in Nice - Preserving the traditional Genoese method of cold-pressing olives, Robert Luminet runs Alziari, the last active olive oil mill in Nice. Customers bring their harvest to be turned into a smooth, sought-after oil, which they enjoy during convivial tastings. For Robert, the mill is both a working museum and a cherished living heritage.
BUSINESS
VTC drivers have protested against Uber's decision to raise its commission to up to 45% for high-demand rides, which they say makes their work financially unsustainable at Nice Airport. Drivers criticized platforms for prioritizing profits over their livelihood and accused the government of inaction. Many fear that this, combined with existing debts, will force them out of the profession.
The French government plans to reduce the reimbursement rate for medications and medical consultations by 5% starting in 2025, aiming to save €5 billion. In Avignon, some patients, especially those without supplemental insurance, are already forgoing necessary medications due to cost. Pharmacists warn this measure will disproportionately impact disadvantaged individuals and drive up insurance premiums for others.
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has proposed remedies to curb Google’s alleged search monopoly, including forcing the sale of Chrome and barring default search contracts with Apple and Samsung. These measures follow a ruling that Google stifled competition and aim to restore fairness in the search market. Google argues the proposals are overly broad and detrimental to consumers, with a decision expected by 2025.
And - Indian billionaire Gautam Adani faces US charges of orchestrating a $250m bribery scheme to secure contracts for his renewable energy company, allegedly concealed to raise $3bn from investors. The charges come amid ongoing scrutiny following prior fraud accusations, challenging Adani's efforts to rebuild his image.
SPORTS
Tennis - Italy claimed their first Billie Jean King Cup title in 11 years as Jasmine Paolini wrapped up a 2-0 win over Slovakia in Malaga.
Rugby Union - Captain Rachel Corsie has not recovered from injury in time for Scotland's European Championship play-off final with Finland.
Athletics - Double Olympic triathlon champion Alistair Brownlee has announced his retirement from the sport at the age of 36.
WEATHER
Cloudy with chances of light rain across the region and risks of snowfall in the Alpes-de Hautes Provence with moderate to strong winds. Highs of 15 degrees in Nice and Cannes, 17 in Toulon, and 18 degrees in Saint-Tropez and Marseille.
Tonight, back to clear skies with lows of 8 degrees.
Outlook for tomorrow, bright and clear with highs of 17 degrees with moderate winds.
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