#MarseilleBeachBan

[newsbites]

News from Marseille, France, 18 July

"La ville de Marseille a décidé de proscrire les cigarettes de toutes ces plages jusqu'à la fin de la saison balnéaire."

The city of Marseille has decided to ban cigarettes from local beaches until the end of the tourist (lit "bathing") season [per Radio Star].

2. French President Emmanuel Macron has decided to retain Elisabeth Borne as prime minister, maintaining stability in his government amid calls for a reshuffle.

Borne, who has been criticized for lacking charisma but praised for fulfilling Macron's campaign promises, is likely to make only minor adjustments to her cabinet.

Macron's decision to keep Borne in her position indicates his focus on drafting comprehensive policies to address recent riots, rather than opting for immediate changes in leadership.

3. The Var prefecture is recruiting 2 apprentices to the sub-prefect in charge of the economic and political issues of the city.

4. Starting next school year, the announcements in the Marseille metro will be translated into Provençal, adding a local touch and cultural flair.

The idea was proposed by Jean-Michel Turc, a Provençal language professor and local councilor, who plans to extend the use of Provençal to the tramway network as well.

This initiative highlights the unique cultural identity of Marseille and sets it apart from other metropolitan cities like Paris.

5. Marseille is in negotiations with Chelsea to sign Gabonese player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who is interested in the Marseille project and willing to reduce his salary to join.

Meanwhile, a move to Marseille for international Senegalese striker Iliman Ndiaye appears to be on the brink of collapse.

6. The owner of a renovated apartment in Marseille is testing the short-term rental market by listing it on Airbnb at an exceptional price of €550 per night during the upcoming Rugby World Cup matches at the Vélodrome stadium.

7. The 98th edition of the Foire Internationale de Marseille will be held from September 22 to October 2, 2023, with a focus on the theme of the sea.

The fair will feature around 1,000 exhibitors showcasing various products and activities related to the sea, fashion, gastronomy, innovation, street food, and craftsmanship.

Tickets can be purchased in advance online, with discounts available, and there will also be evening events and a nocturnal closing time of 23:00.

8. "Et n'oubliez pas le Radio Star Live, le vendredi 29 Septembre, avec une programmation exceptionnelle."