NEWS
Recycle or Be Fined - An "incentive fee" system that charges households based on the volume of their garbage has been implemented to reduce waste in the Var. Starting with a pilot in 2025, waste bins will have electronic chips to track usage, rewarding users who recycle more. After a successful trial in Tanneron, where waste was cut by 50%, the system will expand to all nine communes in the Pays de Fayence by 2026.
Waste Collection Strike - Despite switching contractors, Marseille's metro faces another cleaning and waste collection strike, with Atalian workers demanding that the new contractor rehire 14 former employees from the previous company. Overflowing trash and visible dirt have frustrated residents, as this marks the fourth cleanliness-related strike this year. The RTM has responded by filing a defamation complaint against the union over allegations of "social dumping."
Aixenbus Scam - A scam on social media falsely claims that a new "Aixenbus" transport card offers unlimited bus travel around Aix-en-Provence for €2.35. The offer is fake, and users are warned not to click on the fraudulent link shared in these posts.
Villages Fleuris - Thirteen Vaucluse towns received awards for floral and beautification efforts at the Villes et Villages Fleuris ceremony. Winners included Le Beaucet, Viens, and Ansouis in different population categories, while special awards recognized Pernes-les-Fontaines for heritage preservation, Orange for environmental protection, and Pertuis for energy-saving public lighting.
World Pizza Trophy - With a lively pizza-tossing acrobatics contest and four participants showcasing impressive skills to an enthusiastic audience, the first-ever World Pizza Trophy has concluded in Menton, Alpes-Maritimes. Organized by Laurent Raimondo, the two-day event featured 54 competitors across 12 categories and was praised for its family-friendly, professional atmosphere. Plans for a second edition are underway, possibly extending to three days with more participants.
Stelios Scholarships -The Stelios Philanthropic Foundation has celebrated 20 years of Stelios Scholarships at a reunion in Monaco, raising £255,000 (including matching donations) to fund ten new scholarships at London School of Economics (LSE). Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou and LSE President Professor Larry Kramer encouraged past scholars to contribute, fostering a culture of giving back. Over 60 alumni attended, sharing stories and supporting future scholarships.
BUSINESS
Australia plans to introduce legislation banning children under 16 from social media to protect them from online harm, with enforcement by the eSafety Commissioner. While some support the ban to prevent young users’ exposure to harmful content, others, including child rights advocates, argue that safety standards on social platforms would be more effective than age restrictions. The proposed law, subject to review, also faces implementation challenges, as experts debate whether it addresses the root issues of online safety and education.
And - Elon Musk, a strong supporter of Donald Trump, stands to gain from Trump’s re-election, including potential roles in government efficiency, favourable conditions for SpaceX's federal contracts, and reduced regulations benefiting Tesla. Musk has backed Trump with significant financial support and election efforts, while Trump has praised Musk’s achievements and promised a low-regulation, business-friendly environment.
SPORTS
Tennis - Britain's Cameron Norrie beat Luca van Assche 6-3 3-6 6-1 at the Moselle Open to reach his first ATP Tour quarter-final since April.
Rugby Union - Ireland head coach Andy Farrell says Friday night's showdown with New Zealand will be a typically intense affair. The All Blacks are coming off a 24-22 win over England.
Football - Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi is "fine" after requiring 10 stitches after he was kicked in the face. Barcelona still won 5-2 against Red Star Belgrade in the Champions League.
Boxing - Conor Benn, an unbeaten welterweight with a 23-0 record tested positive for a banned substance in 2022. After a two-year battle with UK Anti-Doping (Ukad) and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC), his provisional suspension has been lifted.
WEATHER
Mostly sunny in the Alpes Maritimes but the closer we get to the Bouches-du-Rhône department, the cloudier it gets. Highs of 21 degrees in Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez and Toulon, and 22 degrees in Marseille.
Tonight, cloudy all across the riviera with lows of 15 degrees.
Outlook for tomorrow, mostly sunny with highs of 21 degrees and gentle to moderate winds.
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