Tag:

Fil info

Annemasse Baseball Bat Attack: Man Seriously Injured, Woman Hurt

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor February 15, 2026

written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Annemasse, France – A 20-year-traditional man is in serious condition after a violent attack with baseball bats on Saturday evening in Annemasse, a town near the French-Swiss border. The incident, which also left a 21-year-old woman with minor injuries, occurred around 8:50 p.m. On Rue de l’Annexion, according to reports.

The young man was transported to the Geneva University Hospitals for treatment of his injuries, while the woman received medical attention at the Alpes Léman Hospital Center (Chal). The severity of the man’s injuries underscores the brutality of the assault, raising concerns within the local community.

Emergency services responded to the scene with two victim rescue vehicles, alongside police and a SMUR (Service Médical Urgent Régional) crew. The coordinated response highlights the immediate need for medical assistance following the attack. Details surrounding the motive for the assault remain unclear as authorities continue their investigation.

The incident has prompted a police investigation, though details regarding potential suspects or a clear motive have not yet been released to the public. Authorities are appealing for any witnesses to come forward with information that could assist in the investigation. The focus remains on identifying those responsible and bringing them to justice.

The attack occurred in a residential area of Annemasse, a commune in the Haute-Savoie department in southeastern France. The town, situated close to Geneva, Switzerland, has a population of approximately 38,000 residents as of 2023, according to the official Annemasse website. The area generally experiences a low level of violent crime, making this incident particularly shocking to residents.

Firefighters played a crucial role in the initial response, deploying two victim rescue vehicles to provide immediate medical care at the scene. The SMUR crew, specializing in pre-hospital emergency medical care, also provided critical assistance before transporting the victims to nearby hospitals. The swift action of these emergency services was vital in stabilizing the injured individuals.

While the condition of the 21-year-old woman is described as “slightly injured,” the extent of her injuries has not been publicly detailed. She is receiving treatment at the Alpes Léman Hospital Center, a regional medical facility serving the Annemasse area. The hospital provides a range of medical services, including emergency care and specialized treatments.

The investigation is ongoing, and police are working to gather evidence and identify any potential witnesses who may have seen or heard something relevant to the case. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Annemasse police department. The community is understandably shaken by this act of violence, and residents are hoping for a swift resolution to the case.

As the investigation progresses, authorities will likely focus on establishing a timeline of events and determining the circumstances that led to the attack. The use of baseball bats as weapons suggests a level of premeditation, but this remains to be confirmed by investigators. The coming days will be critical in piecing together the events of Saturday evening.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for violence, even in seemingly peaceful communities. The focus now is on supporting the victims and their families, and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. The community of Annemasse is hoping for a full recovery for both individuals involved and a return to a sense of safety and security.

What comes next will depend on the progress of the police investigation and the recovery of the victims. Authorities are expected to release further information as it becomes available, and the community will be closely following developments in the case.

Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below, and please share this article with others to help raise awareness.

February 15, 2026 0 comments

Technology

ReZet: Dystopian Novel Explores AI, Truth & Zombie Apocalypse

by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor February 15, 2026

written by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor

Strasbourg-based neurologist Aurélien Benoilid is turning heads with his debut science fiction novel, ReZet, a dystopian exploration of a future where societal reliance on technology leads to a catastrophic loss of memory. Published in January, the book was presented at the Musée Vodou in Strasbourg on February 12th, according to L’Alsace, a local news outlet. Benoilid, who also serves as president of the Forum de bioéthique, began writing ReZet before the COVID-19 pandemic, but the narrative unexpectedly mirrored emerging realities.

ReZet paints a picture of 2036, a society seemingly perfected by technological advancements. A software program called “e-care” has replaced initial medical diagnoses, and most illnesses are curable. However, Alzheimer’s disease remains a persistent challenge, impacting the protagonist, Professor Zacharie Bensoussan, a neurologist whose father suffers from the condition. The novel delves into the potential consequences of unchecked technological progress and the fragility of human memory, themes that resonate deeply in a world increasingly reliant on artificial intelligence.

Central to the novel’s premise are two key inventions: “e-care” and the “Veritarium.” The Veritarium, described as a device capable of infallibly determining the truth of any information – textual, visual, or auditory – effectively eliminates debate on contentious issues like climate change and religion. This concept, Benoilid suggests, raises profound questions about the nature of truth and the importance of critical thinking. The story’s setting is heavily influenced by the actions of Spencer Berger, a billionaire initially focused on space exploration who redirects his efforts towards controlling life on Earth.

Civilization’s Collapse and the Rise of Instinct

The seemingly utopian society depicted in ReZet abruptly collapses when a mysterious illness sweeps across the globe, leaving survivors reduced to a primal state – “zombies sanguinaires,” as described in L’Alsace. The loss of memory and language strips humanity of its civilization, leaving only instinct. Benoilid doesn’t shy away from taboo subjects, including exploring Oedipal themes within this chaotic new world. The narrative follows a group of survivors on a perilous journey to reach Berger’s tower in Jericho, overlooking the Jordan River.

Benoilid, a self-proclaimed fan of science fiction and rock music, incorporates numerous references throughout the novel. The story is interwoven with excerpts from the “Wide Artificial Intelligence” (WAI), an all-encompassing online encyclopedia that serves as a vehicle for Benoilid to explore complex technical subjects, particularly the workings of the human brain.

A Novel Rooted in Contemporary Concerns

Published by Beta Publisher, a Parisian house specializing in genre fiction, ReZet is described as a blend of dystopian fiction, thriller, and philosophical inquiry. The book, 384 pages in length, is priced at €20.50. A presentation of ReZet was also held at the Librairie Kléber in Strasbourg on February 3rd, 2026, as reported by Visit Strasbourg and Le Parisien Étudiant. The novel is positioned as accessible even for readers unfamiliar with the science fiction genre, offering a compelling narrative that questions the extremely essence of what it means to be human in an age of rapidly advancing technology.

As technology continues to permeate every aspect of life, ReZet serves as a timely reminder of the potential risks associated with unchecked innovation and the importance of safeguarding our collective memory and critical thinking skills. The novel’s exploration of a world without truth, and the consequences of surrendering judgment to algorithms, will likely spark debate and reflection long after the final page is turned. The success of ReZet may signal a growing appetite for science fiction that grapples with the ethical and existential challenges of the 21st century.

What comes next for Benoilid remains to be seen, but the critical reception of ReZet suggests a promising future for this Strasbourg-based neurologist turned novelist. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on the novel and its themes in the comments below.

February 15, 2026 0 comments

News

French Athletes Compete Today: Ski, Biathlon & More – Schedule

by February 14, 2026

written by

On Saturday, February 14, 2026 the French contingent will be spread across five winter‑sport disciplines, each with a slate of athletes hoping to add to the nation’s medal tally. The schedule, released by the event organizers, shows a packed day that begins with Alpine skiing at 10:00 a.m. And concludes with speed‑skating relays after 10:00 p.m. Even as the competition itself will be the focus for spectators, the French team also carries recent off‑snow storylines that could shape the atmosphere in the athletes’ village.

Alpine skiing – Women’s giant slalom

At 10:00 a.m., the women’s giant slalom will feature two French skiers: L. Anguenot and A. Elezi Cannaferina. The event, a technical test of line choice and edge control, is the first Alpine race of the day and offers an early chance for France to register points on the podium. Both athletes have been listed on the start list, confirming their participation in the race that typically draws a deep field of World Cup‑season regulars.

Freestyle skiing – Women’s parallel slopestyle

Just after the Alpine competition, at 10:30 a.m., the freestyle arena will host the women’s parallel slopestyle. France’s representatives, P. Laffont, M. Duaux and C. Cabrol, will line up for a head‑to‑head format that rewards creativity and precision on a course of jumps and rails. The parallel format heightens the pressure, as a single mistake can end a run, making each skier’s composure as important as technical skill.

Cross‑country skiing – Women’s 4 × 7.5 km relay

The same morning, at 10:30 a.m., the cross‑country relay will notice the French women’s team of J. Pierrel, C. Pagnier, L. Perry and D. Claudel take the start. The relay, covering a total of 30 km, tests endurance, pacing and teamwork. Each leg is run in classic technique, and a smooth hand‑off is essential for maintaining momentum against the field.

Biathlon – Women’s sprint

At 14:45, the biathlon sprint provides the most complex narrative of the day. The French lineup includes L. Jeanmonnot, J. Simon, O. Michelon and J. Braisaz‑Bouchet. Julia Simon’s presence is particularly notable because she returned to competition after serving a one‑month suspension linked to a conviction for credit‑card fraud and a theft case involving teammate Justine Braisaz‑Bouchet. According to a court ruling on 24 October 2025, Simon was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment with suspended execution and a €15,000 fine for the offences that dated back to the summer of 2022.

The case resurfaced in December 2025 when Lou Jeanmonnot publicly disclosed that the daughter of Justine Braisaz‑Bouchet had received death threats. In an interview following her sprint victory in Hochfilzen, Jeanmonnot said, Là où moi je suis profondément déçue c’est pour Justine, je trouve qu’elle paye beaucoup trop cher quelque chose dont elle a été victime à un moment. The French Ski Federation (FFS) responded swiftly, issuing a statement that it “condemns with the greatest firmness any form of violence or harassment” and affirmed that “no such behaviour has a place in sport or in society.” The federation added that protecting athletes and preserving a climate of trust within the national teams is a “priority absolue.”

Fabien Saguez, president of the FFS, later acknowledged the tense atmosphere, noting, L’ambiance est difficile dans le groupe (féminin), c’est lié aux histoires et c’est bien logique. The biathlon sprint, a 7.5 km race with two shooting bouts, will therefore unfold under a backdrop of heightened scrutiny. Simon’s performance will be watched not only for points but also as a barometer of her reintegration into the squad, while Braisaz‑Bouchet, an Olympic champion in the 12.5 km mass start at the 2022 Beijing Games, will be navigating the psychological impact of the threats reported against her family.

Speed skating – Women’s distances and relay

The evening’s speed‑skating programme begins at 20:15 with the women’s 1 500 m, featuring Q. Fercoq and É. Bastier. The 1 000 m follows at 21:01, with A. Leveque and C. Ollivier taking the ice. The day concludes at 22:05 with the women’s 3 000 m relay, a team event that combines speed, strategy and seamless exchanges. French skaters have consistently been competitive in long‑track events, and the relay offers a final opportunity for the nation to close the day with a podium finish.

What the day means for French winter sport

Saturday’s lineup illustrates the breadth of France’s winter‑sport program, with representation from Alpine, freestyle, cross‑country, biathlon and speed skating. Each discipline carries its own set of stakes. In Alpine and freestyle skiing, early results can set the tone for the rest of the championship, influencing start‑order draws for later events. The cross‑country relay tests depth, as the nation must field four strong skiers to contend with traditional powerhouses.

The biathlon sprint is the most closely watched, not only because of the medals at stake but also due to the lingering fallout from the Simon‑Braisaz‑Bouchet case. The federation’s firm stance against harassment and the public statements from teammates signal an effort to restore unity within the women’s squad. How the athletes respond on the range—maintaining composure during the prone and standing shooting stages—will be a tangible measure of the team’s resilience.

In speed skating, the schedule’s staggered distances allow French athletes to showcase both sprint speed and endurance. The relay, in particular, will test the squad’s coordination after a long day of individual races, offering a final showcase of teamwork before the championships move on to the next set of events.

Looking ahead

As the French team navigates the challenges of Saturday, the outcomes will shape the narrative heading into the remainder of the competition. Strong performances could reinforce the nation’s position in the overall medal table, while any setbacks—especially in the biathlon sprint—might prompt further internal review of team dynamics and support structures.

Regardless of the results, the day underscores the dual reality facing elite athletes: the pursuit of excellence on the snow and ice, and the management of off‑field issues that can influence performance. The French delegation’s ability to compartmentalize these pressures will be on display from the first turn in giant slalom to the final lap of the speed‑skating relay.

February 14, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

Future City Sculpture: Georges Scoufos’ Vision | Wishes

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor February 10, 2026

written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

The Modular City: How Sculptural Visions Could Shape Urban Life in 2100

What if our cities weren’t fixed structures of concrete and steel, but adaptable, evolving organisms responding to the needs of their inhabitants? This isn’t science fiction, but the core of a fascinating exhibition currently on display in Wisches, France, featuring the work of artist Georges Scoufos. Scoufos’s vision, presented through sculpture kits and paintings, prompts a crucial question: are we on the cusp of a new era of urban design, one defined by flexibility, personalization, and a playful approach to the built environment?

The Rise of Kit-of-Parts Urbanism

Scoufos’s work, showcased at the Espace la Locomotive until February 28th, isn’t simply about aesthetics; it’s a tangible exploration of a potential future. The concept of “la ville 2100” – the city of 2100 – as presented through interchangeable sculptural kits, suggests a departure from the monolithic, rigidly planned cities of the 20th century. This echoes a growing trend in architectural thought, often referred to as “kit-of-parts” urbanism. This approach emphasizes pre-fabricated, modular components that can be assembled and reconfigured to meet changing needs.

This isn’t merely a theoretical exercise. The increasing pressures of urbanization, climate change, and economic volatility are forcing architects and urban planners to rethink traditional models. Modular construction is already gaining traction as a faster, more sustainable, and cost-effective alternative to conventional building methods. Scoufos’s artistic interpretation provides a compelling visual representation of how this trend could extend beyond individual buildings to encompass entire urban landscapes.

Beyond Bricks and Mortar: The Role of Art in Future City Planning

The intersection of art and urban planning is often overlooked, yet it’s a critical one. Artists like Scoufos offer a unique perspective, unburdened by the practical constraints of engineering or bureaucracy. They can explore radical ideas and challenge conventional assumptions, prompting us to imagine possibilities we might not otherwise consider.

“Did you know?” box: Historically, artists have played a pivotal role in shaping urban visions. From the Renaissance city plans of Leonardo da Vinci to the utopian designs of the Futurists, artistic renderings have often preceded and influenced actual urban development.

Scoufos’s exhibition isn’t happening in isolation. It’s being held in conjunction with a showing of paintings by Marie Walter, whose work explores the theme of “Landscapes from Here and Elsewhere” at the same location. This pairing highlights the interconnectedness of artistic expression and our perception of the environment, both natural, and built.

The Implications of a Flexible City

A city built on modular principles offers several potential advantages. Firstly, it allows for greater adaptability. As populations shift, economies evolve, and climate conditions change, cities can be reconfigured to meet new demands. Secondly, it promotes sustainability. Modular components can be easily recycled or repurposed, reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact. Finally, it fosters a sense of community. Residents could potentially participate in the design and construction of their own neighborhoods, creating a more personalized and engaging urban experience.

However, this vision likewise presents challenges. Ensuring structural integrity and safety in a constantly evolving urban landscape requires sophisticated engineering and rigorous quality control. Maintaining a cohesive aesthetic and preventing urban sprawl also demands careful planning and design. Equitable access to these adaptable spaces must be a priority to avoid exacerbating existing social inequalities.

The Vernissage and Community Engagement

The joint vernissage on Friday, February 13th at 6 p.m. At the Wisches media library, offers a valuable opportunity for the community to engage with Scoufos and Walter’s work directly. This event underscores the importance of public participation in shaping the future of our cities. The free entry encourages broad access and fosters a dialogue between artists, residents, and local authorities.

“Pro Tip:” Attend local art exhibitions and community planning meetings to stay informed about emerging trends and contribute your own ideas to the conversation about urban development.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Urban Form

The modular city isn’t just a futuristic fantasy; it’s a logical response to the complex challenges facing urban areas today. While Scoufos’s artistic vision provides a compelling starting point, realizing this potential requires collaboration between artists, architects, engineers, policymakers, and, most importantly, the people who will inhabit these future spaces.

“Expert Insight:” Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading urban futurist at the Institute for Sustainable Cities, notes, “The key to successful modular urbanism lies in embracing a holistic approach that prioritizes adaptability, resilience, and community engagement. We need to move beyond simply building structures and focus on creating ecosystems that can thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where can I spot Georges Scoufos’s exhibition?

A: The exhibition is being held at the Espace la Locomotive in Wisches, France, until February 28th.

Q: Is there a cost to attend the exhibition?

A: No, entry is free during opening hours.

Q: Will the artists be present at the vernissage?

A: Yes, Georges Scoufos and Marie Walter will both be present at the vernissage on February 13th at 6 p.m.

Q: How can I identify out more about the exhibition?

A: You can contact the Wisches media library at 03 67 08 83 15 or [email protected].

The vision of a modular, adaptable city, as eloquently expressed through Scoufos’s art, is a call to action. It’s a reminder that the future of our cities isn’t predetermined, but rather a product of our collective imagination and our willingness to embrace new possibilities. What kind of city will *you* aid build?

February 10, 2026 0 comments

Newer Posts

Older Posts