Selection: Michalis Katsigeras

CRETE: Iraklion (From our correspondent) – Inhabitants of the southern districts of Asterousia, Crete, are putting all their efforts into achieving the goal of exploiting their moderate climate, their relatively fertile soil and the shortage of water, whether rainfall or ground water, in order to try and change the unpleasant image of bare hills burnt by the African sun. Local residents want to transform Lasithi into a green region of productive vegetable farms, particularly for the cultivation of tomatoes, cucumbers and bananas. And they have managed to achieve this goal, to some extent. ROGER MILLIEX: In a glittering ceremony at the French Institute in Athens last night, the institute’s deputy director, the esteemed Roger Milliex, was presented with France’s Legion of Honor before a packed house that gave him a rousing welcome. Presenting the award on behalf of French President Rene Coty, the French ambassador to Athens praised Milliex’s many years of work in spreading French culture and in strengthening academic ties between the two countries.