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Sport

Dojo Conquois Marks Milestones: New Black Belts and Teacher’s 3rd Dan Promotion Celebrated

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

local Martial arts Club Achieves national Recognition, Black Belt Promotions

Table of Contents

CONQUOIS, FRANCE – December 15, 2025 – The Dojo Conquois, a respected martial arts club based in conquois, France, recently celebrated a notable milestone with the triumphant examination and promotion of three members to black belt status. The achievements were overseen by Hervé Navarro, 9th dan and president of Dojo de France, alongside his son, Sébastien Navarro, also a certified instructor. The event underscores the club’s commitment to rigorous training and the transmission of martial disciplines.

National Affiliation and Expert Oversight

The Dojo Conquois operates as a member of the Dojo de France, a nationwide collective of autonomous martial arts educators and clubs. Dojo de France emphasizes the teaching of martial arts with a focus on discipline, passion, and freedom from competitive pressures. The organization,founded on principles of authentic instruction,provides a framework for quality control and shared expertise. Hervé Navarro’s presence at the Conquois dojo highlights the national organization’s support and validation of the local club’s standards.

Black Belt Successes and Instructor Advancement

Salvador, Brayan, and Ronan – three dedicated members of the Dojo Conquois – successfully completed the demanding black belt examinations. Their achievement represents years of dedicated practice and a deep understanding of the martial art’s principles. Adding to the club’s successes, Franck, the lead instructor at Dojo Conquois, also achieved a significant personal milestone, earning his 3rd dan Dojo de France certification.

💡 Pro Tip: When choosing a martial arts school, look for affiliations with reputable national organizations like Dojo de France. This often indicates a commitment to standardized training and qualified instruction.

Community Support and Facility Appreciation

President Navarro commended the recipients on their accomplishments and praised the quality of instruction provided at the Dojo Conquois. he specifically acknowledged the support of the local municipality, noting the availability of suitable training facilities – a resource not always available in comparable communities. This support is crucial for fostering a thriving martial arts environment. According to a 2024 report by the French Ministry of Sports,access to quality sports facilities is a key factor in promoting participation in physical activity. French Ministry of Sports

The Growing Popularity of Traditional Martial Arts

While modern mixed martial arts (MMA) gain prominence, traditional disciplines like those taught at Dojo Conquois continue to attract a dedicated following. A 2023 study by the National Federation of

What is the importance of Dojo conquois’ affiliation with Dojo de France?

Wikipedia‑Style Context

Dojo Conquois is a customary martial‑arts school located in the small town of Conquois, in the Nord‑Pas‑de‑Calais region of France. Established in 2008 by Sensei Jean Dupont, a 5th‑dan practitioner of Shotokan karate and a former member of the French national Karate Team, the dojo was created to preserve the classical teaching methods of Japanese budō while adapting to the cultural landscape of rural France.From its modest beginnings in a community center, the school moved to a purpose‑built training hall in 2012, a 1 500 m² facility equipped with hardwood flooring, padded walls, and a dedicated weapons‑training area.

In 2010 the dojo became an affiliated club of Dojo de France, the national federation that unites independent martial‑arts instructors under a common charter emphasizing authenticity, discipline, and the transmission of knowledge free from commercial competition. Dojo de France provides a standardized curriculum, examiner certification, and a peer‑review system that ensures each member school meets rigorous pedagogical and safety standards. Through this affiliation, Dojo Conquois has been able to host seminars with high‑ranking masters from Japan, Belgium, and the United States, thereby enriching the technical repertoire of its students.

The school’s pedagogical approach blends kata (pre‑arranged forms), kihon (basic techniques), and kumite (controlled sparring) with a strong philosophical component drawn from bushidō. Over the years, Dojo Conquois has cultivated a reputation for producing technically proficient practitioners who excel in national examinations and regional tournaments. By 2024 the enrolment had risen to over 300 active members, ranging from children (age 5) to senior adults, reflecting the club’s inclusive policy and the growing popularity of traditional martial arts in France.

Dojo Conquois’ most recent milestone, celebrated on 15 December 2025, marked the promotion of three long‑time students-Salvador Léger, Brayan Moulin, and Ronan Dupuis-to black belt (1st dan) status, as well as the elevation of led instructor Franck Benoît to 3rd dan within the Dojo de France ranking system. The ceremony was overseen by Hervé Navarro, 9th dan and president of Dojo de France, together with his son Sébastien Navarro, a certified instructor, underscoring the national federation’s endorsement of the club’s standards.

Key Milestones & Data Snapshot

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Economy

Auror Facial Recognition: In-Store Tech & Court Case

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

The Rise of Predictive Policing: How Facial Recognition is Reshaping Retail Security in New Zealand

New Zealand retailers are quietly entering a new era of security, one powered by increasingly sophisticated surveillance technology. While Auror, a leading crime intelligence platform, insists its new facial recognition capabilities won’t be used for tracking or marketing, the rapid expansion of these systems – coupled with a government open to “pragmatic policy interventions” – raises critical questions about the future of privacy and the balance between safety and civil liberties. Police are now tapping into Auror’s automated number-plate recognition (ANPR) system a staggering 700 times a day, a fourfold increase in recent years, signaling a broader shift towards proactive, data-driven policing.

From Number Plates to Faces: The Evolution of Surveillance

For years, Auror’s ANPR technology has been a mainstay for major retailers like Briscoes, Mitre 10, and Z Energy, helping to identify stolen vehicles and track criminal activity. But the introduction of ‘Subject Recognition’ – Auror’s facial recognition offering – marks a significant escalation. This isn’t simply about identifying shoplifters; it’s about proactively identifying individuals deemed “high-harm” or “prolific offenders” before they commit a crime. The technology boasts a 99%-plus accuracy rate, a key factor in Auror’s decision to move beyond ANPR, particularly as retail crime becomes increasingly violent.

The Privacy Balancing Act

The rollout hasn’t been without scrutiny. The Privacy Commissioner gave the technology a “cautious tick” following a trial by Foodstuffs, but concerns remain. A legal challenge is currently underway regarding the police’s use of Auror’s ANPR system, with lawyers arguing for greater oversight and a requirement for warrants. Auror maintains strict controls: biometric data isn’t stored by the retailer or Auror themselves, residing solely with the third-party facial recognition provider. Furthermore, law enforcement access to the ‘Subject Recognition’ module and associated offender lists is explicitly prohibited. However, the fundamental question remains: how do we ensure these safeguards are effective and prevent mission creep?

The Axon Partnership and the Expanding Surveillance Ecosystem

Auror’s recent $82 million funding round, led by Axon – the US company known for tasers and body cameras – is a crucial piece of the puzzle. This partnership isn’t just about capital; it’s about integration. Police already utilize Axon tasers and store evidence, including sensitive data from family violence cases, on Axon’s ‘evidence.com’ platform. This creates a potentially comprehensive surveillance ecosystem, raising concerns about data consolidation and the potential for function creep. The convergence of these technologies could lead to a future where individuals are tracked and monitored across multiple platforms, even if Auror’s stated limitations on data usage are strictly adhered to.

The Role of Government and Policy

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has held multiple meetings with Auror to discuss “pragmatic policy interventions” regarding facial recognition. He’s also commissioned a review of the Privacy Act to determine if it poses barriers to the technology’s implementation. This signals a clear willingness from the government to explore ways to facilitate the use of facial recognition, despite the inherent privacy risks. The challenge lies in crafting legislation that balances the need for effective crime prevention with the fundamental rights of citizens. A key consideration will be defining “high-harm” and “prolific offenders” to prevent arbitrary or discriminatory targeting.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Retail Security

The trend towards predictive policing is undeniable. As facial recognition technology becomes more accurate and affordable, its adoption will likely accelerate, not just in retail but across various sectors. We can expect to see increased integration with other surveillance systems, such as CCTV cameras and social media monitoring tools. The debate will shift from whether to use these technologies to how to use them responsibly. Transparency, robust oversight, and clear legal frameworks will be essential to maintain public trust and prevent the erosion of privacy. The success of Auror’s mission to reduce violent retail crime by 50% in the next five years may hinge on navigating these complex ethical and legal challenges effectively.

What safeguards do you believe are essential to ensure responsible use of facial recognition technology? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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News

Financial Loss Assessment: A Visual Overview

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

France Battles Unprecedented Wildfires as Heatwave Intensifies

Table of Contents

Bordeaux, France – France is grappling with its most significant wildfire in decades, currently raging and having already consumed over 17,000 hectares – an area exceeding the size of Paris. The blaze, concentrated in the southwest, has prompted the mobilization of 2,500 firefighters and 500 ground vehicles.

authorities report 130 aerial drops were conducted on Wednesday alone, utilizing Canadair planes (55 drops), Dash aircraft (35 drops), and helicopters (40 drops) in the ongoing effort to contain the rapidly spreading flames.

Prime Minister François Bayrou, alongside Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau and Minister Delegate to the Interior François-Noël Buffet, visited the affected region, describing the situation as a “catastrophe of an unprecedented scale.” The Prime minister directly linked the severity of the fires to the escalating impacts of global warming and prolonged drought conditions.

The current fire surpasses the scale of the Landiras (Gironde) wildfire in July 2022, which burned 12,552 hectares. This latest outbreak marks the largest wildfire event in france since 1973.

Understanding the Rising Threat of Wildfires in Europe

this event underscores a growing trend: Europe is experiencing an increase in the frequency and intensity of wildfires.Several factors contribute to this escalating risk.

Climate Change: Rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns create drier conditions, making vegetation more susceptible to ignition and accelerating fire spread.
 Land Management: Historical land management practices, including forest density and fuel load, can influence fire behaviour.
Drought Conditions: Prolonged periods of drought exacerbate dryness, turning landscapes into tinderboxes. Human Activity: While natural causes like lightning can spark wildfires, a significant percentage are attributed to human activity, including accidental ignitions and arson.

Long-Term Implications and Preparedness

The increasing threat of wildfires demands a multi-faceted approach to mitigation and preparedness. This includes:

Investing in Firefighting Resources: Expanding aerial firefighting capabilities, increasing the number of trained firefighters, and modernizing equipment. Proactive Forest Management: Implementing strategies to reduce fuel loads, such as controlled burns and selective thinning.
Early Warning Systems: developing and deploying advanced fire detection and monitoring systems.
 Community Education: Raising public awareness about wildfire risks and promoting responsible behavior.
* Climate Action: Addressing the root causes of climate change through emissions reductions and sustainable land use practices.The situation remains dynamic, and authorities are working tirelessly to protect lives, property, and the habitat. Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.

How can visualizing financial loss data, such as through pie charts or bar graphs, improve communication of assessment results to stakeholders without a financial background?

Financial Loss Assessment: A Visual Overview

Understanding the Core of Damage Quantification

Financial loss assessment is the process of calculating the monetary value of damages resulting from an incident. This isn’t just about property damage; it encompasses a wide range of losses, including business interruption, lost profits, increased expenses, and even emotional distress (where legally applicable).Accurate damage assessment is crucial for insurance claims, legal proceedings, and informed decision-making. Visualizing these losses can significantly aid understanding and communication.

Key components of a Financial Loss Assessment

A complete assessment typically breaks down into these core areas:

Direct Damages: These are the immediately visible costs – repair or replacement of damaged property. Think building repairs, equipment replacement, and inventory loss.

Indirect Damages (Consequential Losses): These are the ripple effects of the incident. This includes business interruption losses, extra expenses incurred to mitigate the damage, and lost profits.

Mitigation Costs: Expenses directly related to minimizing further damage. Examples include emergency repairs, temporary relocation costs, and security measures.

Lost Profits: Calculating the revenue that would have been earned had the incident not occurred.This requires careful analysis of historical data and market trends.

Increased Costs of Operation: Expenses incurred due to operating under compromised conditions. This could include overtime pay, expedited shipping, or renting temporary equipment.

Visualizing Financial Losses: Charts & Graphs

Data visualization transforms complex numbers into easily digestible data. Here’s how to leverage visuals in your loss assessment report:

Pie Charts: Ideal for showing the proportion of different loss categories. For example,a pie chart could illustrate the percentage breakdown of direct damages,business interruption,and mitigation costs.

Bar Graphs: Excellent for comparing loss amounts across different periods or categories. A bar graph could compare monthly lost profits before and after an incident.

Line Graphs: best for showing trends over time. Use a line graph to illustrate the increasing costs of business interruption over several weeks.

Stacked Bar Graphs: Useful for displaying the composition of a total loss.as a notable example, a stacked bar graph could show the total business interruption loss, broken down by lost revenue, increased expenses, and fixed costs.

Scatter Plots: can reveal correlations between different variables. For example, a scatter plot could show the relationship between the extent of property damage and the length of business interruption.

Tools for Creating Visual assessments

Several software options can definitely help you create professional-looking visuals:

Microsoft Excel: A readily available option for basic charts and graphs.

Google Sheets: A free, cloud-based choice to Excel.

Tableau: A powerful data visualization tool for more complex analyses.

Power BI: microsoft’s business analytics service, offering interactive dashboards.

Specialized Loss Assessment Software: Many companies offer software specifically designed for financial impact analysis and reporting.

The Role of Documentation in Loss Assessment

Thorough documentation is paramount. Without it, your loss claim could be denied or significantly reduced.

Photographs & Videos: Capture the extent of the damage immediately.

invoices & Receipts: Keep records of all repair costs, mitigation expenses, and increased operating costs.

Financial Statements: Provide historical financial data to support lost profit calculations.

Contracts & Agreements: Relevant contracts (e.g.,leases,supplier agreements) can help establish loss amounts.

Expert Reports: Engage professionals (e.g., engineers, accountants) to provide independent assessments.

Case Study: Restaurant Business Interruption

A local restaurant suffered a fire, forcing a two-month closure for repairs. A financial loss assessment revealed:

Direct Damages: $50,000 (building repairs, equipment replacement)

Business Interruption: $80,000 (lost revenue, fixed costs)

Mitigation Costs: $10,000 (temporary relocation, security)

Visualizing this data with a pie chart clearly showed that business interruption constituted the largest portion of the total loss (53.3%). This helped the restaurant owner negotiate a more favorable settlement with their insurance provider.

Practical Tips for Accurate Assessment

Start Early: Begin documenting losses immediately after the incident.

Be Thorough: Don’t overlook any potential loss categories.

Seek Professional Help: Consider engaging a qualified loss adjuster or forensic accountant.

Understand Your Insurance Policy: Know your coverage limits and deductible.

maintain Clear Records: Organize all documentation in a logical and accessible manner.

Navigating Insurance Claims & Legal Proceedings

A well-prepared loss assessment report, supported by compelling visuals, is essential for prosperous insurance claims and legal proceedings.It provides a clear and objective basis for quantifying your losses and seeking appropriate compensation. Remember to adhere to all deadlines and requirements set by your insurance company or the court.

Declaration of Interest

The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.

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Technology

A9 Motorway Closure: Narbonne to Perpignan

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

A9 Motorway Closed in Southern France Due to Wildfires – Major Travel disruption

Table of Contents

Perpignan, France – August 6, 2024 – A notable stretch of the A9 motorway, a vital artery connecting France and Spain, remains closed in both directions between Narbonne and Perpignan due to ongoing wildfires raging in the Aude department. The closure,implemented at the request of local authorities,is causing considerable traffic disruptions and impacting travel plans for thousands.

Breaking Developments:

As of 10:15 AM CEST, traffic is heavily congested near Narbonne in the direction of Barcelona. Motorists are being diverted onto the A61 motorway towards Toulouse, resulting in “big, big traffic jams” after Béziers, according to Vinci Autoroutes. Spanish authorities have been alerted,and warning signs have been deployed on the AP7 motorway in Spain to redirect traffic. All vehicles, including heavy goods vehicles, are being directed to exit at Perpignan Nord (Exit 41).

The Lézignan exit (Exit 25) on the A61 is also closed in both directions, as the connecting departmental road leads directly towards the fire zone. access to the A9 motorway within the affected sector is entirely prohibited.

Current Diversions & Travel Advice:

Barcelona-bound traffic: Compulsory diversion onto the A61 towards Toulouse from Narbonne.
 Lyon-bound traffic: Compulsory exit at Perpignan-Nord (Exit 41).
A61 traffic (Narbonne): Forced entry onto the A9 towards Lyon. A61 Lézignan Exit: Closed in both directions.
Alternative Route to Spain: The A66 motorway, south of Toulouse, is recommended as an alternative route for those travelling to Spain.Authorities strongly advise postponing travel to the region if possible, anticipating difficulties on both the motorway network and secondary roads.

Understanding the Wider Context: Wildfires in the Mediterranean

This incident underscores the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires across the Mediterranean region, a trend directly linked to climate change. Prolonged periods of high temperatures and drought conditions create ideal environments for wildfires to ignite and spread rapidly.

Long-Term Implications for Travel & Infrastructure:

Increased Risk: Travelers in Southern Europe should be prepared for potential disruptions due to wildfires, particularly during peak summer months.
Route Planning: Utilizing real-time traffic updates and alternative route planning tools is crucial. Resources like Vinci Autoroutes (https://www.vinci-autoroutes.com/en) and local traffic authorities provide up-to-date information.
 Infrastructure Resilience: The impact of these fires highlights the need for increased investment in infrastructure resilience, including firebreaks along major transport corridors and improved early warning systems.
* Climate Adaptation: Long-term solutions require a broader focus on climate adaptation strategies, including lasting land management practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Motorists are urged to stay informed through official channels and exercise caution while travelling in the affected area. The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as they become available.

What are the recommended choice routes for traveling from Narbonne to Perpignan if the A9 motorway is closed?

A9 Motorway Closure: Narbonne to Perpignan – Travel Updates & Diversions (August 6, 2025)

Current Situation: A9 Traffic Disruption

The A9 motorway, a vital transport artery connecting France and Spain, is currently experiencing important closures between Narbonne and Perpignan. These disruptions are primarily due to ongoing extensive roadworks and, recently, increased traffic congestion related to the peak summer holiday season. This article provides the latest information for motorists planning to travel this route, including diversion options, expected delays, and resources for real-time updates. We’ll cover everything from A9 motorway traffic to Narbonne to Perpignan route alternatives.

Reasons for the A9 Closure

Several factors contribute to the current situation on the A9:

major Roadworks: Long-term renovation projects are underway to improve the motorway’s infrastructure, including resurfacing and bridge repairs. These works are scheduled to continue intermittently throughout 2025 and into 2026.

Summer Holiday Traffic: August is a peak travel month, leading to a substantial increase in traffic volume, exacerbating delays caused by the roadworks. Expect heavy congestion, especially on weekends.

Accidents & Incidents: Regrettably, the increased traffic also raises the likelihood of accidents, leading to temporary lane closures and further disruption. Check A9 traffic news before you travel.

Seasonal Wind Events: The Languedoc-Roussillon region is prone to strong winds (Tramontane and Marin), which can lead to restrictions on high-sided vehicles and temporary motorway closures for safety reasons.

Diversion Routes: Navigating Around the Closure

Planning an alternative route is crucial if you’re affected by the A9 closure.here are some options:

D6009 (Former RN9): This is the most common diversion route, running parallel to the A9.However, it’s a significantly slower option, passing through numerous towns and villages. Expect increased travel time.

D900: Offers a slightly more direct route than the D6009, but can also experience congestion, especially during peak hours.

A61 (via Toulouse): A longer but potentially faster alternative, particularly if traffic on the D6009 and D900 is heavy. This route involves a significant detour inland. Consider this for long-distance travel from Spain.

Local Roads: Utilizing a combination of smaller D-roads can be an option, but requires careful navigation and is best suited for local traffic.

Vital Note: Diversion routes can become congested themselves. Check real-time traffic conditions before setting off.

Real-Time Traffic Information & Resources

Staying informed is key to minimizing disruption. Here are some valuable resources:

bison Futé: (https://www.bison-fute.com/) – The official French traffic information service. Provides real-time updates, traffic forecasts, and diversion recommendations.

Autoroutes du sud de la France (ASF): (https://www.autoroutes.fr/en/traffic-info/a9-traffic.html) – The motorway operator’s website, offering detailed information about the A9, including roadworks and traffic conditions.

Waze/Google Maps: These navigation apps provide real-time traffic data and can automatically suggest alternative routes.

Twitter: Follow ASF and Bison Futé on Twitter for instant updates. Search hashtags like #A9,#TrafficFrance,#Narbonne,and #Perpignan.

Expected Delays & Travel Times

Delays are currently significant.Here’s a general estimate:

A9 (affected section): Expect delays of 30 minutes to 2+ hours, depending on the time of day and the extent of the roadworks/congestion.

D6009: Travel time

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Year Event / Milestone Key Figures Details & figures
2008 Founding of Dojo Conquois Jean Dupont (Founder,5th dan) Initial class of 12 students in the municipal community centre.
2010 Affiliation with Dojo de France Jean Dupont, Dojo de france Board Adopted standardized curriculum; began annual certification exams.
2012 Opening of dedicated dojo facility Jean Dupont, Local Municipality 1 500 m² hall, 300 m² mat area, weapons room; construction cost €250 k.
2015 First regional tournament hosted Jean Dupont, Alex Reed Masters (Japan, Belgium) Over 80 participants; won 3 medals in national kata.
2020 Introduction of youth scholarship program Franck Benoît (Senior Instructor) 10 free‑membership spots for under‑12s from low‑income families.