Running out of grit is unforgivable. I love the comments "laughing stock of the French" Having worked with many French people over the years whilst working in the restaurant business, i would suggest most of them have always needed cheering up and if us getting a big dump of snow and not being able to deal with it, makes them smile, then this is good on two accounts. we have lots of snow and its made them smile. Two things that rarely happen. So inconclusion, authorities keep up the good work!