Heavy snow in the Paris region resulted in most flights to and from the capital and Nice Airport being cancelled on Wednesday, February 7.
Nice Airport also warned of substantial delays to the flights that did operate, sometimes close to two and a half hours. Several flights were cancelled on Tuesday, including to London. By 05:00on Wednesday morning, 13 cm of snow had landed at Orly and Roissy Airports in Paris.
After a very cold night with a temperature of -8, the forecast for Paris on Thursday is for plenty of sunshine and a high of 2 celsius.
Meanwhile, the CGT trade union said it would cancel its national strike of rail workers planned for Thursday, for “security reasons.” The union, which has been protesting against a range of issues, said it would announce a new date for a stoppage within the next few days.
The latest in a long list of distinguished visitors, Professor Kevin Whelan will deliver a lecture on Dublin as a Global City, from 1600 to 2017, at the Princess Grace Irish Library on Friday, February 16.
In recent decades, national history has gone into distinct directions, moving both down into micro-history and up into an Atlantic, global dimension. This illustrated lecture is an exercise in regarding history as a panorama rather than as a close-up in considering the global positioning through space and time of a small but influential city.
It approaches the evolution of Dublin through a series of flows – of people, ideas, goods, and culture. It tracks Dublin’s rise as a ‘city of brick’, as it surged from a mere 10,000 in 1600 to 200,000 by 1800 – a response to the northwards migration of the centre of gravity of the European economy from its old Mediterranean heart to the Atlantic facade.
It anatomises Dublin under the Union, a ‘city of shadows’, as its trade, population and prospects were all constricted. It considers the influence of two global systems – Imperialism, Catholicism – on Dublin in the nineteenth century. The ‘city of words’ emerged in the early twentieth century, when Joyce, Yeats and Beckett found ways to universalise the city.
The 1916 Rising is considered, as is the exhausted city of the post-imperial phase. Finally the lecture looks at the emergence of the ‘silicon city’, and how Dublin functions as a transnational city in the current global economy. By looking at Dublin over a long time frame and in a wider geographical frame, its distinctive evolution can be tracked through comparative perspectives.
Booking is essential for the lecture, which starts at 19:30, at 9 rue Princesse Marie-de-Lorraine in Monaco Ville. Admission is 10 euros per person.
The Association Monegasque pour l’Amerique Latine (AMLA) is proud to announce its second event since its creation in September 2017.
“Brazilian Carnaval Happy Hour takes place on Thursday February 8, from 18:30 to 21:30, at the Meridien Beach Plaza Hotel, offering live entertainment, variation of Caipirinhas and typical finger food.
With the presence of special guests; the consulate of Brazil in Monaco, Mr and Mrs de Montigny; the renowned artist Marcos Marin who will expose some of his artwork, and in collaboration with the Hotel Meridien, AMLA invites you to join us in celebrating the Brazilian carnaval.
Let your gaze drift away with beautiful and skilful samba dancers, your taste be nurtured by Brazilian finger food and let’s get slowly in the mood of this Brazilian tradition with a variety of caipirinhas.
We look forward to sharing with you an insight into this vibrant, welcoming and diverse country of Brazil.
The Monaco Town Hall has arranged free parking at Stade Louis II for those attending the pre-election meetings on Wednesday, February 7 and Thursday, February 8, at the Gaston Medecin Omnisports Hall.
In addition, free transport is available on the Monaco bus network from 18:30 to midnight on presentation of a Monegasque identity document.
Polling in the elections to the National Council takes place on Sunday, February 11, at Espace Leo Ferre, 7, terrasses de Fontvieille. The polling station opens at 08:00 and closes at 19:00 with no lunch break. Voters should bring ID card or valid passport.
More information on the municipal elections: www.mairie.mc
ML: Where are you from in the US and how did you end up in Monaco? AA: I grew up in Maine, which is as far north and as far east as you can go in the US. In 1989, I decided I needed a total change of perspective, so I got on an airplane and moved to the South of France. Since I had never been to the Riviera and hadn’t bothered to make any hotel reservations, I had to explore from Cannes to Italy for about two weeks before I settled in the Monaco area.
ML: You were a journalist in a previous life. Would you say you have an eye when it comes to reading the news? AA: I loved the old fashioned pre-Watergate journalism where you reported the news rather than putting your own “spin” on the facts. With the advent of the internet, there is no way to assess what is fact, what is “spin” and what are downright lies, so you have to take all reporting with a truckload of salt.
ML: Do you remember your first impression of Monaco, and was it easy to integrate in the community at that time? AA: My first impression of Monaco was what a small town it is. Everyone was very welcoming and helpful … even to a single, unemployed American woman with bad French and no clothes sense.
ML: You’ve been with Stars’n’Bars (SnB) for more than 25 years. How did you meet Kate Powers? AA: I became a customer at Le Texan, her restaurant before Stars’n’Bars, and she always introduced me to other people so I made lots of new friends. When I ran out of money, she hired me as a cashier … not a very good one … and she’s still my boss and best friend 27 years later.
ML: What changes have you seen in terms of Monaco evolving and SnB’s clientele? AA: Monaco has really become a place to be proud of in terms of its commitment to the planet and humanitarian causes. Today there is a very strong family-based population and that has been great for our business, which offers something for all ages.
ML: What are some of your fondest memories at SnB? AA: My favourite memories are of actually being part of the construction crew that turned an old warehouse into our new three-storey restaurant. I painted the walls and for months I couldn’t get the orange stain out of my skin.
ML: Please tell us about Prince and his performance in May 1994! How the heck did that happen? AA: Prince wanted to do a “small” live concert for his new album and he chose Stars’n’Bars as a “secret” location. A thousand people showed up and I was given the very popular job of deciding who could get in and who couldn’t fit into the Blues Bar.
ML: What is the craziest thing you had to do or wear for a SnB event? AA: My hat made of inflated condoms for an evening in support of the FIGHTS AIDS Association.
ML: Best idea and biggest flop over the years? AA: I think our most original idea was to create the balconies in the StarDeck, which open and close like a drawbridge over the port. In terms of flops, maybe the green mash potatoes for St Patrick’s Day.
ML: Speaking of StarDeck, what kind of events does it host? AA: The StarDeck has really evolved into our party centre and we host concerts, fashion shows, football nights, press conferences and lots and lots of corporate and private cocktail parties. Most recently, we have used the StarDeck to create monthly family workshops on wellness and protecting the planet and we are working with local associations who need a venue where they can also communicate on issues important to Monaco’s wellbeing.
ML: You are involved in many organisations, from IEFTA to TEDxMonteCarlo to MonacoUSA. Plus you are on hand for all the events on StarDeck. What inspires you to be an active community member? AA: I’m inspired by Monaco people, including our Prince, who are grateful to live and work here and who want to give back.
ML: So how do you decide which organisations to attach your name to? AA: I’m always impressed by people who come up with original ideas to “give back”. TEDx is entertaining, informing and inspiring all at once. The Monaco-based IEFTA has created education and jobs by teaching filmmaking in economically disadvantaged countries and MonacoUSA serves as a “cheerleader” for those people and initiatives that boost Monaco’s positive image.
Neils Brinelli from French TV M6 interviewing Annette on US election night
ML: What was the craziest or longest day you’ve had when events overlapped? AA:US Election Day is always my longest – about 27 hours non-stop. The day begins at 7 am with the press wanting interviews and predictions, then planning and hosting an election night party and watching TV results with guests until a winner is declared – usually about 6 am the following day … and then hanging on till about 10 am to discuss results with the press. This year I did it in my pyjamas.
ML: What is a typical day for you? AA: There are no typical days, thank God and, as a result, no organised days. We work on priorities … until they change … and then we just move forward … it’s the only direction we know.
ML: What is the one app or device you cannot live without in your workday? AA: Basic communications skills involving human beings as much as possible … yes, I’m a dinosaur.
ML: You are around people all the time. Everyone knows you. What do you do in your downtime? AA: I love to spend quiet time with my spouse in our home and watch a film on TV.
ML: Quality you most admire in someone? AA: Honesty and humour.
ML: Best piece of advice of another woman gave you? AA: Kate has always encouraged me to do what I love and love what I do. It works.
Laetitia Mikail: Legal advisor, Moores Rowland, Qualified member of Monaco’s CSA and Director of JCEM’s Business Network Events
ML: You are born in Monaco and grew up here. What are some of your fondest memories as a kid and did Monaco seem like a regular place to you? LM: So many! Where to start … Going to the beach every day in the summer, playing in the Princess Antoinette park, attending football games, riding my bike on the Larvotto esplanade, the Fun Fair in November, etc.
One of my fondest memories is the celebration of the Grimaldi dynasty’s 700 years of reign in 1997. I was 13 years old at the time and 700 school children from Monaco participated in the memorable (though rainy!) celebration on Port Hercule.
Of course, it felt like a regular place to me. I genuinely had the simplest of childhoods. My brother and I would ride the bus to school, my parents worked, I had extra-curricular activities on Wednesday afternoons – tennis, dance, gymnastics, music – nothing special.
However, I realised how unique (and clean) it is when I travelled abroad during school holidays. I believe that safety and security in Monaco is often taken for granted by us locals, and it is key to get out to realise how lucky and privileged we are.
ML: You must know everybody. In a country of 38,000, does it ever feel small and would you say Monaco has divided social communities? LM: Maybe not everybody but I do certainly know a few! Often, you find yourself doing “la bise” to a number of people even when you just step out to buy milk! It sometimes does feel a little small but when it does, a weekend away does the trick.
I do agree that there are various social groups but these groups interact with each other due to the size of Monaco and the various events that take place in different areas (culture, sports, theatre, charity events, etc.) through which people ultimately cross paths.
ML: What is something people would be surprised to learn about Monaco? LM: How many times have I heard that “Monaco is Disneyland for adults”, a “playground for grown-ups” or been asked “but people work in Monaco?” So many people are surprised that there is so much more to Monaco than Formula 1 and lavish parties.
In fact, locals and expats live very normally. The Principality has a very dynamic business community. It has become a key economic and social actor in the regional labour market as it employs just over 52,000 people (despite having just 38,000 residents). This means that every day, thousands of professionals living in neighbouring countries come to work in Monaco and contribute to the development of the economy.
ML: Name your favourite place to meet up with friends? Favourite spot to work out? LM: It would have to be the Bar du Quai for after-work drinks and nibbles. It is cosy, chilled and welcoming. For more crazy parties, Sass Café and Jimmy’z.
But before enjoying these, a work out at the Thermes Marins de Monte-Carlo is an absolute must. The facilities and the trainers are top class and it feels like a family. In particular, the outdoor spinning classes with sea views are a treat!
ML: Did you always want to be a solicitor? What type of law do you practice at Moores Rowland? LM: I did! Practicing law allows you to use your mental skills each day in effective ways to solve problems for your clients. Because each case is unique, you must use these skills to research and formulate legal strategies to effectively solve their problems.
I have been practicing private client and corporate law for two and a half years at Moores Rowland (a corporate service provider based in Monaco for 40 years and specialised in international tax, trusts and company administration). Most of our clients are expats who are Monaco residents so I am able to put my overseas experience and qualifications as an English solicitor and New York attorney-at-law to good use. We also work closely with Monegasque lawyers to refer them all Monaco-related legal matters.
ML: You are perfectly bilingual. Is this because of your education abroad? Do you ever see yourself living long-term as an expat in, say, New York or London? LM: It is indeed. I went to state school here in Monaco in the international section, which I thoroughly recommend! Most of my summers were also spent visiting my extended family abroad in the UK and the US.
This enabled me to attend university in Keele in the UK for my undergraduate degree followed by law school at the Oxford Institute of Legal Practice, part of Oxford University.
The quality of life that Monaco offers, my current career and all my other activities make me want to stay in my hometown. It had always been my plan to learn as much as possible abroad during my studies in order to return to Monaco with additional knowledge and experience.
ML: You are also the Director of Business Network Events at the Monaco Junior Chamber of Commerce. Why is JCEM important to Monaco? Why did you choose to support this organisation? LM: Launched in 1963, JCEM is a well-established organisation in Monaco. Through our actions we are able to develop the economic attractiveness of the Principality, and the JCEM has enabled generations of young leaders and entrepreneurs to meet and share their experiences, set up common projects and develop their business acumen.
When I was asked to take over the directorship of Business Network Events, I was thrilled to start a new challenge but my one and only condition was to host at least half of the events in English in order to attract new members who were worried about the language barrier.
ML: Can you tell us about your past and upcoming events? LM: The past couple of events were extremely successful thanks to the keynote speakers and the incredible locations which were generously made available to us.
Cristiano Raimondi kindly hosted our first event on the Monaco Art Market at the Villa Sauber (Nouveau Musée National de Monaco) – this attracted 120 participants.
For our most recent event in June where Sir Stelios generously welcomed us on his terrace and gave a presentation on Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy hit 180 participants – a record of attendance for such event.
Our next event will focus on Health Care in Monaco and more specifically “How Hospital Princess Grace contributes to the attractiveness of Monaco” (with a presentation on health care systems in Monaco, new units in place and the new hospital) in October. Stay tuned and we might break even more records!
All joking aside, it is great to see that these events are popular and that people make time for them. I feel that my personal mission is accomplished when I see experts in the various fields participate in and find these events to be useful. In addition I have also heard of a number of work synergies, which followed from those events so it is a win-win.
ML: Speaking of Monaco attractiveness, you have just been appointed to a three-year post as a personnalité qualifiée (qualified individual) of the Strategic Council for Attractiveness (Conseil Strategique pour l’Attractivité, or CSA). What is the position of qualified individual, how does one get appointed? LM: It was truly an honour to be appointed by the Sovereign Order as a member of the CSA for the next three years.
The Council is comprised of two-thirds of qualified individuals, one-third of ex-officio members and three permanent experts. Qualified individuals are carefully chosen amongst Monegasque nationals and foreign residents according to their knowledge of the economy.
ML: What is the function of the CSA? LM: The CSA addresses issues relating to the economic development of Monaco and future planning, and aims to bring solutions, proposals and ideas to the Government. Five committees have been established, namely Real Estate, Finance, Monaco Capital of Yachting, Destination Monaco and Quality of life.
The committees are chaired by qualified individuals and meet periodically to discuss proposals and recommendations regarding the attractiveness of the Monegasque economy.
ML: Monaco is big on charity work and philanthropy. Do you do any charity work? LM: There are a number of charities in Monaco that are of great interest to me. However, as I have limited time to commit, I have chosen to focus on and help a charity set up by one of my friends, Muriel Natali-Laure, called Monaco Disease Power, which celebrated its 10th anniversary this year. Placed under the High Patronage of HSH Prince Albert II, the charity supports adults and children suffering from mental and physical disabilities or mental disorders. Apart from the annual fundraiser, we are also organising an all-day medical conference on Saturday, November 25 at the Théâtre des Variétés.
ML: You have a pretty hectic schedule. What is the one device you cannot live without? LM: It goes without saying … my iPhone! Although I am often tempted to throw it in the pool for some peace and quiet.
ML: How would you describe the female community in Monaco? LM: Active, strong, helpful and tight-knit. The incredible work of HSH Princess Charlene and her foundation is a perfect example of this.
ML: What is something you’ve always wanted to try or do in Monaco but still have not? LM: Open a charity shop. It has always been a dream of mine as I see how successful and popular they are in the UK.
I even had a specific idea of setting up a charity shop solely stocking designer handbags. Women in Monaco could donate their used (often hardly used at all) designer handbags and others (including tourists) could purchase these at a discounted price. Proceeds would then be donated to the customer’s Monegasque charity of choice. Staff could be Monaco residents who are keen to give back to society and happy to give half day a week to help great causes and charities.
One day, I will do it. I just need 30-hour days …
ML: What’s the best piece of advice another woman gave you? LM: “Don’t leave for tomorrow what can be done today” – copyright my mother, when she was trying to convince me to take the New York Bar exams at a time I thought was too soon. I was 24 years old, felt like I knew better and that I had better things to do at the time. Thank God for Moms! She was absolutely right and I would have NEVER taken it at a later stage!
Laetitia Mikail: 
ML: Did you always want to be a solicitor? What type of law do you practice at Moores Rowland?