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Arunachal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands get exemption from SC highway liquor ban The Hindu The Supreme Court on Wednesday allowed Arunachal Pradesh and Andaman and Nicobar Islands to join the club of Sikkim and Meghalaya, both of which enjoy full exemption from the court's ban on sale of liquor within 500 metres of National and State ... SC exempts Arunachal Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands from liquor sale banLivemint SC relaxes 500-metre highway liquor ban for Arunachal Pradesh, Andaman and NicobarScroll.in all 12 news articles »

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Arunachal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands get exemption from SC highway liquor ban - The Hindu

(CNN) Volumes have been published about Thailand's palm-peppered islands and sugar-coated beaches, their writers waxing lyrical about pillow-soft sand and crystalline waters.

But with so many coastal choices, it can be a challenge to pick the perfect stretch of sand.

Seasonal weather definitely has a bearing on destination decisions.

The best bet for sunshine on the west coast (Andaman Sea) is November to April; while on the east coast (Gulf of Thailand), it's January to September.

Veteran Thai travelers always check ahead before heading to lesser-visited destinations -- many hotels, resorts and restaurants in non-A-list places close for the low season.

Choosing a full-service beachside base camp to begin a journey is a smart approach.

You can strike out from any number of such bases by using the network of ferries that connect Thailand's islands.

Stunning sandy beaches at Koh Rawi.

Beautiful but isolated Koh Rawi is located about 40 kilometers west of Tarutao.

Radial islands: Tarutao National Marine Park, Petra National Marine Park, Koh Mook, Koh Ngai, Koh Kradan

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The dramatic Morakat Cave.

Koh Mook's Tham Morakot (Morakot Cave) can be accessed only through an 80-meter-long tunnel during low tide, which leads to an open-air chamber surrounded by overgrown cliffs.

To fully appreciate the white sand inside the sea cave and for the emerald green of the pool to really dazzle, visit on a sunny day.

Activities include dugong sighting trips off Koh Libong; island-hopping and stopping off to see the iconic stone arch at Koh Kai; visiting Koh Hin Ngam, a tiny island covered with polished black stones, where a sign warns that a curse will fall on those who remove any pebbles.

There are waterfalls on Koh Adang and Koh Tarutao, the latter with two prison ruins. Trekkers can hit the trails through the interiors of Koh Ngai (aka Koh Hai) and Koh Sukorn.

For rock climbing and bouldering -- previously only associated with Krabi -- Koh Lao Liang is starting to attract enthusiasts with operators such as Andaman Adventures offering personalized itineraries.

Chill

Tartutao National Marine Park encompasses 51 islands in Southern Thailand.

The islands of the Petra archipelago are split between Trang and Satun provinces, and include Koh Libong, Koh Bulon Lae and the twin islands of Koh Lao Liang.

Between them, the two marine national parks include more than 80 islands with countless beaches to discover.

With most of the islands protected under national marine park status, visitors have their pick for scuba diving, snorkeling or just plain lazing on the sand.

It should be noted that the overall lack of tourist development means most of the islands don't have electricity around the clock, nor ATMs, but they do come with bucket-loads of tropical idyll.

Party

There really isn't a nightlife scene to speak of on the offshore islands of the coastal provinces of Satun and north-bordering Trang, with the exception of perhaps Pattaya Beach on Koh Lipe.

Stay

Basic national park accommodation on Koh Tarutao, Koh Adang and Koh Petra, starting from $15 (500 baht) per night, can be booked 60 days in advance through the Department of National Parks website.

It's too bad they don't give out awards for bad travel puns. 'Cause we've got a winner, folks: "Feeling crabby? Go to Krabi."

Radial islands: Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Yao Yai/Noi, Koh Racha, Koh Hae (Coral Island). Regular ferries and speedboats run from Phuket and Krabi to these outlying islands and can be booked through most hotels.

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Water activities abound at all the main beaches in Phuket, be it parasailing, jet skiing, or even kitesurfing off Kata Beach.

From scuba diving around the Similan Islands (one of the best locations in Asia) to snorkeling day trips to Koh Hae, the underwater scenery in Andaman waters can be spectacular if you know where and when to look.

During the November to April high season, snorkelers can explore the coral right off the shores of Kata Yai beach in Phuket.

During the rainier "green" season, the waters around nearby Koh Racha provide better clarity.

Dotted with limestone outcrops, Ton Sai and Railay are popular rock climbing destinations. The island of Koh Yao Noi follows close behind for vertical rock face escapades. These places offer a different vantage point on Krabi's theatrical seascape.

And, of course, "The Beach" was filmed at Koh Phi Phi. To get that quintessential tourist shot, walk up to the viewpoint on Phi Phi Don and snap a few frames of the double-crescent beaches.

Keep in mind Similan Islands National Park is closed from May to November each year, making it off limits to tourists.

Chill

Phuket beaches include Kata Noi and Karon beach.

Especially during high season, local Thai families head to Sirinath National Park along Nai Yang Beach to picnic beneath the shade of the casuarinas trees and escape Phuket's crowded beaches.

The relative difficulty of reaching Haad Hin Kluay (aka Banana Beach) via a narrow and steep-ish dirt road (400 or so meters from luxury resort Trisara) makes it a viable option for those wanting to chill on the beach.

If you want to spend your whole vacation in quiet surroundings, Koh Lanta, Koh Yao Yai/Noi or even Phang Nga province are interesting alternatives.

Another easy option is to charter a long-tail boat for the day and ask the captain to take you to a secluded beach on one of the smaller uninhabited islands in the Andaman Sea.

Party

Phuket is Thailand's largest island and has several nightlife enclaves.

Bangla then crosses Rat-u-thit Road, also home to a few places to frolic. For a lower key night without the distraction of professional ladies, Phuket Town's popular watering holes include Sanaeha and Ka Jok See.

During high season, the nocturnal scene at Railay, just south of Ao Nang on the other side of the limestone outcrops, picks up with versions of full moon, half moon, and black moon parties complete with fire dancing. Most of the action takes place on Railay East.

Stalkers take note. The odd global celeb has been known to check into Phuket's Sri Panwa.

Stay

Baan Krating on Ao Sane Beach effectively has a private stretch of beach, but if you want to drop big bucks for the chance to rub shoulders with the jet set, Amanpuri and Sri Panwa are prime choices.

Useful links: Krabi ferry schedule, Phuket ferry schedule

Radial islands: Koh Phan Ngan, Koh Tao, Koh Nangyuan, Angthong Archipelago

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The ubiquity of bronzed bodies stuffed in wet suits gives it away -- Koh Tao is a PADI paradise, reportedly overshadowed only by Australia's Cairns when it comes to issuing the most dive certifications in the world.

Though kayaking is a run-of-the-mill sport in this part of the world, the experience of paddling through the 42-island maze of the Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park is unbeatable.

There are a few fanned bungalows via the Department of National Parks on the archipelago's headquarters on Wua Talap. Unless you're honing your mosquito-whisperer skills, however, a day trip would more than suffice.

For visitors preferring to stay dry, Bophut on Koh Samui has the liveliest of the island's walking streets, with vendors vying for attention alongside the gamut of restaurants and bars down the cute sea-fronting Fisherman's Village street.

Chill

The clear seas of Koh Nangyuan.

With clear water lapping up on both sides of the sandbank connecting the three islets that collectively make up Koh Nangyuan, "nothing" is usually the order of the day, with lazy snorkeling right off the alabaster shoreline just about the only activity.

On Koh Phan Ngan, Haad Yuan on the eastern coast is a quiet stretch of beach that backs onto forested hills, fronted by comfortably swimmable shores.

A sprinkling of bungalows and resorts have sprung up in recent years, but with rocky outcroppings on both ends of the beach, it remains fairly tranquil, accessible only by boat and a not oft-used mountain footpath.

Party

Chaweng on Koh Samui is the epicenter of sea, sand and shopping during the day, and also where debauchees descend at night.

Ground zero is the Green Mango strip, where there's plenty of space in the clubs to move, with the nearby and unassuming Hendrix Bar on Soi Solo the preferred spot to de-bass and re-hydrate till the light hours of the morning.

Over on Koh Phan Ngan, the full moon parties with their cult-like notoriety, need little introduction. Once a month, hedonists and the plain mad numbering in the tens of thousands flock to Haad Rin beach to party as though tomorrow has been cancelled.

For less mainstream revelry -- considered by some to rival the full mooners -- Ban Tai hosts fortnightly half moon parties, held a week before and after the full moon shindigs.

Stay

Koh Samui is a great spot for accommodation.

As the country's third largest island, Koh Samui has by far the most varied options for accommodation.

Both of Koh Phan Ngan's fancy digs --- Rasananda Anantara and Santhiya --- are located at the beautiful Thong Nai Pan beach on the northeast coast.

The small but stunning Koh Mak.

Koh Mak is so small you can walk around the entire island in a few hours.

Radial islands: Koh Mak, Koh Kood, Koh Wai, Koh Rang, Koh Chang archipelago

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From the privately owned Koh Rayang to the flat Koh Kradat, booking an island-hopping tour is a good way to see this oft-overlooked section of the Gulf of Thailand.

For divers and snorkelers, the water around the Koh Rang islands are best, with idyllic beaches also found on Koh Kra and Koh Rang Yai, both part of the archipelago.

With a low-key, local feel, Koh Mak is small enough to walk around in a few hours. Just off the northwest coast is Koh Kham, which can be easily reached by kayak or on foot via a sandbar during low tide.

There are also a number of waterfalls hidden amid the forested interior of these islands, best visited during the rainy low season. Among the more popular cascades (Koh Chang Archipelago National Park; entrance fee applicable) are Than Mayom and Klong Phlu on Koh Chang, and Klong Chao on Koh Kood.

Chill

Just off the bottom tip of Koh Chang is Koh Wai, a small island with a smattering of bungalows along its northern shore.

From the pier near Good Feeling Resort, the beach stretches in both directions. It can get relatively busy with visitors from other islands.

Koh Kood, the fourth largest island in Thailand and the furthest east in the province of Trat's waters, has been bestowed with the moniker, "Maldives of Thailand."

In recent years, a couple of high-end resorts have moved in, but due to the distance from the mainland, the island's beaches remain empty.

Party

Don't miss the Koh Chang Archipelago National Park.

As the largest of some 52 islands in the Koh Chang Archipelago National Park, and second largest island in Thailand, Koh Chang is where the local party is found, namely on White Sand Beach (Haad Sai Khao) and the misleadingly named Lonely Beach (Haad Tha Nam).

The always happening Sabay Bar features a live band and fire shows on the beach, while Oodies Place is usually abuzz with blues aficionados and regular patrons looking for a jamming night out.

Further down along the west coast, a distinctive bohemian vibe can still be felt at Lonely Beach (think bungalows and buckets), with nightly parties all down the block.

Among the most popular venues are Siam Hut, Ting Tong Bar and monthly black moon parties hosted by Om-Bar.

Stay

Lonely Beach, better than its name implies.

Bhumiyama and Siam Hut, both on Lonely Beach, showcase the diversity of hotels on Koh Chang.

Over on Koh Mak, Coco Cape offers a range of accommodation within the same resort, including the stilted Baan Chom Klurn, with its large wooden sundeck that cantilevers over the water.

Editor's note: This article was previously published in 2012. It was reformatted, updated and republished in 2017.

Originally posted here:

Island hopping in Thailand - CNN

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A new study predicts more "nuisance floodingin coastal areas across the United States, including Edisto and Kiawah islands. Kyle Simmons wades through water to check on the home of his grandmother following Hurricane Matthew on Edisto Island on Oct. 9, 2016. File/AP

In just 18 years less than the life of some mortgages rising seas will cause disruptive flooding in about 170 coastal communities across the United States, including Edisto and Kiawah islands, a new analysis says.

Prepared by the Union of Concerned Scientists, the study is said to be the first nationwide attempt to identify tipping points times and places where flooding is so frequent that residents abandon their land or pump big bucks into projects to hold back the ocean.

No stranger to high water, Charleston already sees regular nuisance floods at seasonal high tides, though the problem has grown worse in recent years. Charleston averaged four days of tidal flooding 50 years ago. Last year, the city had a record 50 flooding days, many when the sun shined.

Even so, the city has yet to reach a chronic inundation threshold when 10 percent or more of its usable, non-wetland area floods at least 26 times per year, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists report.

That will change within a couple of generations.

The Union of Concerned Scientists puts rigorous, independent science to work to solve our planet's most pressing problems. Joining with citizens across the country, we combine technical analysis and effective advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for a healthy, safe, and sustainable future.

Source:ucsusa.org

By 2060, under moderate sea-rise scenarios, the group predicts 16 percent of peninsular Charleston will see debilitating floods at an average rate of every other week.

By then, chronic floods also will affect roughly:

The situation only grows worse after that, the report said.

By 2100, rising waters could swallow or routinely flood nearly 87 percent of Kiawah Island, 57 percent of Edisto Island, 40 percent of James Island, and about one-third of the Charleston peninsula and Mount Pleasant. This assumes that sea levels increase by 4 feet by the end of the century, which is in the mid-range of current scientific estimates.

With its low elevation and expansive marshes, the South Carolina Lowcountry is well-named. Even relatively small rises in the sea level can move water far inland.

In Lowcountry on the Edge, The Post and Couriers climate change series, the newspaper reported how 1 foot of rising water could flood 204,000 acres of marsh and 64,000 acres of land in Charleston County alone. This would affect nearly 1,000 homes, offices and other buildings, according to a College of Charleston geology department report.

Locally, the city of Charleston is spending or plans to spend about $300 million on drainage work and a future seawall in peninsular Charleston.

"We're already concerned" about sea rise, said Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg, adding that he hasn't seen the report.

In addition to the drainage and seawall project, the city has been working on more specific sea-rise adaptation plans. Recommendations may be discussed at a public workshop later this month. He said the city likely will need to prioritize which land in the city should be protected from rising waters and which should be left to the waves.

You dont want create another flood problem by building in a flood plain.

South of Charleston, Kiawah Island Mayor Craig Weaver said the October 2015 storm and Hurricane Matthew in 2016 helped spur what he described as a low-key look at the islands vulnerabilities to sea rise. The town established a citizens committee earlier this year that should make recommendations later in 2017.

He said he didnt consider sea rise an urgent issue, adding that we are not wading into the broader political debate about global warming or its causes.

"They understand that if we fail to limit warming, were committing a great many people to a future of flooding and inundation."

- Rachel Cleetus, lead economist and climate policy manager at the Union of Concerned Scientists

The Lowcountry is by no means alone in its sea-level struggles.

About 270 communities face chronic flooding and possible retreat by 2060, the Union of Concerned Scientists report said. The report is called When Rising Seas Hit Home and was published Wednesday in the scientific journal Elementa.

Coastal Maryland and Virginia will be especially hard hit. In addition to rising sea levels, land there is subsiding sinking downward because of movements in the earth's tectonic plates. Louisiana's situation is even worse. Land there is subsiding in part because of efforts to reroute the Mississippi River. A football field of land in Louisiana now washes away every hour, scientists say.

Wednesdays analysis by the nonprofit comes at a time of high political tension about how to address a climate thats changing at a rapidly increasing pace.

The Trump administration recently pulled the United States out of the Paris climate accord, the international agreement to reduce greenhouse gases. Meantime, new reports have trickled out during the past month about potentially devastating melting trends in GreenlandandAntarctica.

The reports authors said that hundreds of coastal communities could be spared if world leaders follow the Paris accords guidelines to reduce carbon emissions and other greenhouse gases.

Despite the Trump administrations opposition, states and cities have vowed to uphold the Paris agreements goals in their jurisdictions.

They understand that if we fail to limit warming, were committing a great many people to a future of flooding and inundation, said Rachel Cleetus, lead economist and climate policy manager at the Union of Concerned Scientists.

Original post:

New study pinpoints sea rise hot spots, with Edisto and Kiawah islands caught in the crosshairs - Charleston Post Courier

In the wake of the worst heat wave in more than a decade, Athenians are decamping, as ever, to the Greek islands for the rest of the summerand so is a good slice of the jet-setting art world. Cypriot collector Dakis Joannou pioneered a new trend by opening the DESTE Foundation space on Hydra in 2009, and new contemporary art projects have since been popping up all around the Aegean archipelago, providing compelling reasons not to miss the boat.

That also means that last-minute visitors to documenta 14 in its closing days have plenty of options for a seaside holiday with the excuse of seeing international art exhibitions on a number of alluring isles. Here are a few of the most captivating destinations to check out if youre in the hood (or to dream about if youre not).

Kubricks Space Odyssey 2001 screened at last years drive-in event by Myrto Tzima, at Syros International Film Festival

Your first stop might be the Syros International Film Festival(July 14-19), co-founded in 2013 by young Americans Jacob Moe and Cassandra Celestin to occupy a distinctive niche among the art, music, and film genres. Curated around various meanings of the term Cracking Up, both comedic and tragic, this years program includes a drive-in double feature of Michael Powells Peeping Tom and Nightmare, by Errikos Andreou; live scores for 1920s films performed by DJ Yves Tumor in a former tannery; an audiovisual performance by ElektronikMeditation; and a workshop by filmmakerMartha Colburn, all in traditional and unconventional sites around the elegant neoclassical city Hermopolis, capital of the Cyclades. The festival will close with a Balinese-themed celebration in a quarry, where avant-garde musician Mike Cooper and the Syros Gamelan Orchestra will contribute to a multimedia extravaganza.

Joe Bradley, Sculpture for Billy Hand, Installation view at Neokastro, Antiparos. Courtesy Eva Presenhuber

From Syros, a one-hour ferry ride to nearby Paros and a five-minute boat from Pounda will take you to serene Antiparos.Tom Hanks is a resident of the island, and Madonna is reported to be a fan, and yet the tiny island remains tranquil and unpretentious.

Swiss dealer Eva Presenhuber runsa space there calledKastro, locatedin the old town, that has hosted shows of artists Joe Bradley, Oscar Tuazon, and Sam Falls since 2014. This year the gallery presents five works playing out variations on a theme in different mediums by American artist Wyatt Kahn (July 23-August 31).

In Parikia, the port town of Paros, the Archaeological Museum will host the contemporary art exhibition Orange Water 3, curated by Apostolis Zolotakis, with works by Greek and Dutch artists Ad Arma, ngelika Vaxevanidou, Katerina Kaloudi, Eugenia Coumantaros, Jan Mulder, Gert van Oortmerssen, Apostolos Fanakidis, and Dimitra Chanioti (July 16-October 21).

Guests at the opening of Kara Walkers Figa at DESTEs Project Space, in Hydra. Photo Maria Markezi

Immortalized in Henry Millers travelogue The Colossus of Maroussi, Hydra has been a cosmopolitan cultural outpost since the 1950s, associated with longtime residents such as the late musician Leonard Cohen and painter Brice Marden as well as native artist Nikolaos Chatzikyriakos-Ghika, whose work is being shown in documenta 14.

Collector Pauline Karpidas has organized art shows on Hydra since 1996. This summer, the harborside Hydra Workshop presents six vivid new paintings by American artist Jamian Juliano-Villani, in the latest of many shows organized by Sadie Coles (on view July 22 to mid-September). If you make your way uphill on the winding stone streets, you will find the Hydra School Project, a former high school where artist Dimitris Antonitsis curates international group exhibitions every summer. (This years show, Gestalt, runs until the end of September.)

It was DESTE Foundations annual exhibitionsmounted around a former slaughterhouse overlooking the sea and opening with a post-Art Basel gala for art-world luminaries including Jeffrey Deitch, Massimiliano Gioni, and Jeff Koonsthat established the island as an international art mecca. The very first project, Matthew Barney and Elizabeth Peytons unforgettable Blood of Two, required a sunrise hike to watch a glass vessel full of pencil-and-blood drawings of mythical animals being dredged from underwater and carried by fisherman to the slaughterhouse in a ritual procession, where a dead shark was barbecued. This was followed up with shows by the likes of Maurizio Cattelan, Doug Aitken, Urs Fischer, Pawel Althamer, Paul Chan, and this summer Kara Walkers Figa: the disembodied hand of the sphinx-like sculpture A Subtlety, made for Brooklyns Domino Sugar Factory, tellingly reformed in a pointed gesture of the thumb, to be interpreted as spiritual or provocative (until September 30).

The rooftop terrace of Dio Hora, Mykonos

In 2015 Marina Vranopoulou, the coordinator of DESTEs Hydra platform, started up Dio Horia, a residency and gallery space tucked among the designer shops in the main town of Mykonos, notorious for its gay party scene and notable for its proximity to the ruins of sacred Delos. In late July, summer resident Aurel Schmidt will show her filigreedrawings, alongside an exhibition by David Adamo and Margarita Myrogianni, and Build Your Own Home, a structure by artist Jannis Varelas that will house works by other artists including Alex Da Corte, Oliver Laric, Alex Eagleton, Atelier van Lieshout, Carly Mark, Danai Anesiadou, and Sue Williams (July 28-August 22).

Artist Alyssa Moxley in the green marble quarries. Photo by Petros Touloudis

Culturally rich Tinos, a Christian pilgrimage site next to Mykonos, was the home of late sculptor Yannoulis Chalepas, whose house is now a museum. In 2015, the artist-run Tinos Quarry Platformalso opened on the eponymous island.Every summer the Platform hosts several artists in the village of Isternia to develop work related to the local context, culminating in an exhibition. This years Reassembly responds to the restricted movement of our paranoid era through immaterial artworks that employ musical notation and are digitally portable. The show features works by its curators, Petros Touloudis and G. Douglas Barrett, along with pieces by artists Adel Abidin, Francesco Gagliardi, Giorgos Koumendakis, Alyssa Moxley, Tao G. Vrhovec Sambolec, Hong-Kai Wang, and Samson Young, among others (Cultural Foundation of Tinos, July 5-October 31).

In the village of Loutra, the Convent of the Ursulines will host the Serviam Project, a show of Greek contemporary artists including icon painter Konstantinos Ladianos, whose works will activate the history and spaces of the complex and nearby ancient baths (July 15-September 4).

Greg Haji Joannides, founder and artistic director of Sterna Art Project, photo Nyssos Vasilopoulos 2015

The geologically spectacular Nisyros, a volcanic island in the Dodecanese archipelago near Turkey, is home to the Sterna Art Project, a residency program run by artist Greg Haji Ioannides. Living in a crater provokes strong emotions, feelings, thoughtsoffering great ground to create, he says. I wanted to share this with artists from around the world and see how each responds to this extraordinary environment. This years project, Paradoxically Paradox, kicks off the evening of July 27 with a violin performance by Michalis Hazoglou in the medieval Castle of Emporeios. The exhibition comprises site-specific interventions by Jason Karaindros and Virginia Mastrogiannaki in the suggestive ruins of Loutra Mandrakioua bathhouse set for subsequent restorationthat play with perception of the unnatural triggered, or echoed, by elements of physical space (July 30-August 25).

Art Space Pythagorion the Schwarz Foundations exhibition space on the Greek island of Samos at the port of Pythagorion

The islands along the Turkish coast are in fact where its at in August, when Samoss Art Space Pythagorion will host Summer of Love, curated by Katerina Gregos to reflect on the year 1967, when love entered into politics, and how we have strayed since. The show featuresnew work by artists including Mikhail Karikis, Marko Metamm, Marge Monko, and Uriel Orlow. Established by the Munich-based Schwarz Foundation in a retrofitted hotel on the harbor of Pythagoreio, the space inaugurated in 2012 with Between Eye and Hand, a first-rate survey of politically charged videos by Harun Farocki.

Nicolas Vamvouklis, artist and director of K-Gold Temporary Gallery

The third largest island in Greece, Lesvos (aka Mytilene) is the birthplace of the poet Sappho and, more recently, the site of Ai Weiweis controversial work on the refugee crisis.

At the Municipal Gallery of Mithymna on Lesvos, K-Gold Temporary Gallery, a nomadic exhibition project initiated by artist Nicolas Vamvouklis in 2014, will present Body Is Victory and Defeat of Dreams. The show is curated by Athena Hadji with work by artists Orestis Lazouras, Alix Marie, Lito Kattou, Lydia Dambassina, Christos Mouchas, and HOPE (August 11-September 10). The hill town overlooking the sea is also home to the Athens Fine Art School residency, housed in an Ottoman mansion just below the castle that is worth visiting for its stunning period frescoes.

Dancer Lenio Kaklea performed sections of Arranged by Date Alphabet at unannounced locations such as a distant rooftop, executing the whole only once. Photo by Cathryn Drake

The biennial project Phenomenon, a residency and exhibition organized by Parisian collectors Piergiorgio Pepe and Iordanis Kerenidis, is well worth planning ahead for. Anafi, a remote island in the Cyclades, has evolved from a place of penance, as an exile outpost from ancient Roman to modern times, to a contemporary paradisea rare retreat from the drudgery of daily life. With only 270 inhabitants, there is a sense of isolation and silence, with only the whoosh of the high winds through the empty streets of whitewashed dwellings, the sun so bright you cant possibly see your electronic screen.

In its second edition this summer, the program considered the constant renegotiation of historical narratives through physical and ephemeral fragments that appear and disappear in a week of presentationssuch as Christodoulos Panayiotous ever-evolving performance Dying on Stage, a moving consideration of tragic ironyand a surprisingly cohesive research-based show at the schoolhouse, along with site-specific installations (many produced in collaboration with residents) that will remain until they vanish naturally in the elements. The program runs through July 16, yet if you come later in the summer you will still find relics left behind or returned: Mario Garca Torress Once remembered is a postcard, now for sale in local shops, depicting an ancient statue taken from the island and exhibited in the Louvre. Julien Ndlec has painted a giant Z on a building as a tribute to the letter that disappeared from the Roman alphabet for two centuries.

View of Julien Ndlec, Dark Chaos, (2017). Photo by Cathryn Drake

Anafi, whose name derives from , or to reveal, is the perfect place to contemplate the wonders of life. Or naturethe islands austere peninsular monolith, Mount Kalamos, is second largest in Europe to the Rock of Gibraltar.

If you need more convincing on where to spend your summer, I conclude with an observation from Millers Greek travelogue: The light of Greece opened my eyes, penetrated my pores, expanded my whole being.

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Island Hopping: The Best Art Shows to See in the Greek Islands This Summer - artnet News

The Toronto Islands have been closed to visitors all summer after high water levels caused massive flooding.( Rick Madonik / Toronto Star ) | Order this photo

By Emma McIntoshStaff Reporter

Mon., July 10, 2017

Centreville is considering extending its season into the fall after the city announced Monday that some sections of the Toronto Islands will stay closed all summer while others will reopen at the end of the month.

Sections of Centre Island, where the amusement park is located, will be shut down until further notice, along with other popular destinations like Olympic Island, Gibraltar Point and Hanlans Point.

For the businesses on the islands that rely on the busy summer season, such closures make a huge impact, said Centreville spokesperson Shawnda Walker.

Were ready to go and weve been ready to go for more than three weeks now, as far as waters concerned, Walker said. Were just sitting here, waiting.

In a statement Monday, the City of Toronto said other sections of the islands will re-open to the public on July 31 a date that could be pushed back if weather conditions intervene. Centreville, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, hopes to be reopened by that date.

Toronto Island Park has been closed to the public since early May, when heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding on the islands in what the city called a 100-year event. Monday, the city said water levels on Lake Ontario are receding slower than expected.

The city said businesses are missing out on as many 20,000 daily visitors during the summer closure.

City council also voted to stop collecting rent and licence fees from island residents and licence holders until the full scale of the floods financial impact is known.

Even if the amusement park does re-open before summers end, not all of its beloved features will be back in time.

The animals in the Far Enough Farm petting zoo will likely stay put at their temporary home northwest of Toronto in Schomberg, Ont., where they were moved during the flooding. Their barns were submerged in water, and some pens are still soggy, said Walker.

By the time we get everything rebuilt itll be too late, she said.

Parts of the tracks for the train ride, as well, only just stopped being underwater. Itll likely have to be completely rebuilt.

Thankfully, said Walker, thats the only ride that was affected, and everything else aside from the waterlogged grandstand will be ready whenever visitors arrive.

Though a few season pass-holders have called to ask if theyll be refunded, Walker said park officials will figure that out once theyre able to open. When they get an idea of how much business is coming in and how many boats are running to the island, theyll also decide whether theyll stay open until October.

For now, Walker said shes expecting about three to four days notice before the park will be able to re-open. Though she said shes hopeful theyll get the all-clear on July 31, it would be better if the go-ahead arrives even sooner.

We thought we were going to be open three weeks ago, she said. Im really hoping its going to be earlier.

Read more:

As water encroaches, Toronto Islands are haunting

Photos: Toronto Islands virtually a ghost town as flooding persists

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Some areas of the Toronto Islands will be closed all summer, officials say - Toronto Star

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If you're after more amazing holiday inspiration, make sure to also check out our luxury holidays page .

Check out of reality and into paradise when you book this private island vacation rental on Bird Island in Belize.

The island is located in the middle of a coral reef with unbeatable marine life, crystal clear waters, and beautiful weather year round.

The house can hold up to four guests, and has a host of amenities including a fire pit and BBQ for laidback dining, three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and two sundecks overlooking the turqouise waters.

How much? Prices start from 340 ($435 ) a night. Click here for booking information .

Cheap flights: You can bag return flights to Belize from 617.57 on Expedia , with a host of UK airports including London Gatwick, Edinburgh and Manchester.

Sit back, relax and bask in the Caribbean sun with a stay at this quaint cottage on Ship Channel Cay.

You won't need to lift a finger during your trip as the island has a full-time service team who can take you on guided boat tours or cook your dinner, so you can truly disconnect from every day life.

Take a stroll along the pink sandy beaches, explore one of the island's spectacular nature trails, or spend a lazy afternoon on you private beach away from the crowds.

How much? Prices start from 350 ($450) a night. Click here for booking information .

Cheap flights: British Airways has direct return flights to the Bahamas from 649 .

Although it's just a short drive from Hilton Head, this private island plantation seems a world away from that bustling resort area.

Take a step off the beaten path into South Carolina's Lowcountry, where you can enjoy 150 acres of unspoiled nature.

How much? Prices start from 240 ($307) a night. Click here for booking information .

Cheap flights: There are no direct flights to South Carolina from the UK, but you can find seats from 393 each way on Cheapflights.co.uk .

Ideal for an exotic getaway, Ipil Waterfront is hidden in the heart of Palawan, an archipelago comprising 1,780 islands in the Philippines.

It's the epitome of paradise with fine white sand beaches, crystalline blue waters, colourful tropical fish, jaw-dropping corals, lusciously green forests and towering limestone cliffs.

Meanwhile, the three-bedrooom villa has its own private beaches, and thanks to the large windows and high ceilings it boasts unparalleled views of the ocean and landscape.

How much? Prices start from 620 ($801) a night. Click here for booking information .

Cheap flights: You can find return flights from 326 with one stopover on Kayak.co.uk .

Located on the remote Big Farmers Cay, this hidden gem is the perfect island escape.

You won't be stuck for things to do, with kayaking, fishing, snorkeling and windsurfing just some of the options on offer.

There's some incredible wildlife on the island too: go swimming with wild pigs, turtles and stingrays, and look out for iguanas.

Meanwhile the luxurious three-bedroom house has its own private beach and unrivalled views of the breathtaking landscape, but if you are looking for somewhere a bit vibrant for dinner then it's just a short walk to the nearby Ty's Sunset Bar & Grill.

How much? Prices start from 555 ($720) a night. Click here for booking information .

Cheap flights: British Airways has direct return flights to the Bahamas from 649 .

This beautiful, private island log cottage sits on Lake of the Isles, which is renowned for its unusually warm water temperatures.

After a day of swimming, guests can unwind on the wrap around deck while they enjoy stunning 360-degree waterfront views.

This gorgeous home has everything you could want including a natural stone hot tub, satellite TV, outdoor stereo speaker system, water treatment system, as well as luxurious furnishings including 6 beds, leather & log cabin style sofas.

How much? Prices start from 470 ($604) a night. Click here for booking information .

Cheap flights: TripAdvisor has a host of cheap flights to New York available from 357 .

Perfectly situated in the heart of the Florida Keys and just a short, three-minute boat ride from the mainland, East Sister Rock Island is the perfect tropical escape.

The house has three bedrooms and two baths, and has 19 sliding glass doors that offer the best views and ocean breeze from every part of the house.

For a very billionaire-worthy entrance, guests can also arrive by helicopter as the rental features its very own launch pad!

How much? Prices start from 1,250 ($1,613) a night. Click here for booking information .

Cheap flights: You can bag seats from 321 on TripAdvisor including a departures from a host of UK airports such as Bristol, London, Norwich, Leeds and Edinburgh.

This multi-million dollar cottage sits atop a 4-acre private island in Ontario's Muskoka Lakes Region, and boasts 6 bedrooms and bathrooms.

It makes for the ultimate beach break, as the private beach has everything including its own bar, campfire, picnic table and hammock, as well as plenty of beach toys and sports equipment (canoes, kayaks and a paddle board).

Meanwhile, its open lake views makes for some seriously breathtaking backdrops especially at sunset time.

How much? Prices start from 1,900 ($2,466) a night. Click here for booking information .

Cheap flights: Canadian Affair often has great deals and discounts including flights from 344pp .

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Boasting five bedrooms and six bedrooms, this impressive estate can hold up to 14 guests.

Offering breathtaking views of the Maya Mountains it's the epitome of a luxurious getaway: you'll have access to the island's boat and your own personal driver, as well as a full staff to help cater to your every need.

Meanwhile there's plenty of watersports equipment if you want to make use of the private beach, but if you're not in the mood for sand then there's also a large freshwater pool which includes a layout deck, covered seating area and even pool volleyball.

How much? Prices start from 1,160 ($1,643) a night. Click here for booking information .

Cheap flights: You can bag return flights to Belize from 617.57 on Expedia , with a host of UK airports including London Gatwick, Edinburgh and Manchester.

Get ready to dive into the adventure of a lifetime!

This fully-staffed, private island rental in Belize sleeps 18 and includes unlimited access to sea kayaks, snorkeling gear, paddle boards, and more.

There's even an island chef to serve you up some mouthwatering local cuisine - or whatever other foodie delights take your fancy.

How much? Prices start from 3,860 ($5,000) a night. Click here for booking information .

Cheap flights: Return flights to Belize from 617.57 on Expedia , with a host of UK airports including London Gatwick, Edinburgh and Manchester.

Read more:

10 incredible tropical islands you can rent from just 240 - and you'll have them all to yourself - Mirror.co.uk

International sports in Oceania are weird, bizarre, silly, and incredible in all the best ways. Currently the FIBA U17 Basketball Championships are happening in Guam, and the tournament, particularly on the womens side, has devolved into Australia, New Zealand, and Samoa beating up on everyone else.

This culminated on Tuesday when Australia beat the Marshall Islands, 166-3. The box score is pretty incredible.

However, the beauty of tournaments like this is giving tiny nations, like the Marshall Islands (population 28,000) or Palau (21,000), an opportunity to play in a major tournament. Its exposure and experience they wouldnt get any other way, and these countries LOVE basketball. Over 1,000 people turned up to a tournament in the Marshall Islands last year, which might not sound like much until you appreciate that its 20 percent of their population.

On some level it feels wrong to laugh at whats happened in this tournament. These counties are doing their best, but we that feeling cant be mutually exclusive from appreciating whats happening at a large-scale, international tourney.

As of Tuesday morning a total of eight games have been played in the womens tournament. These are the scores:

Its just a whole bunch of islands, big and small, playing each other in games with an average margin of victory of 104.75 points. FIBA knows the field of play problem, every sport does. The disparity between nations is such that winning Oceania doesnt give you an automatic bid into larger international tournaments, both in basketball and soccer.

This tournament will end with Australia playing New Zealand, just like it always does and we can appreciate the simple things ... like a 110-31 win.

The rest is here:

Australia beat Marshall Islands, 166-3, which is normal in this bizarre tournament - SB Nation

Early on Friday morning, an American tourist vacationing in Greece was beaten to death by a group of bar patrons on the resort island of Zakynthos.

Barkari Henderson, 22, had been accosted by a mob outside a Zakynthos bar after an argument over the placement of his drink, reported Kathimerini, an English-language Athens news outlet. The Austin, Texas resident died after suffering fatal head injuries in the attack.

Police have arrested at least eight people involved in the beating, including six Serbian nationals, a 34-year-old Greek man and a 32-year-old British man of Serbian origin.

AMERICAN TOURIST, 22, BEATEN TO DEATH ON GREEK ISLAND, 8 ARRESTED

The mayor of Zakynthos, Pavlos Kolokotsas, says municipal officials and local police officers are re-evaluating their efforts to crack down on rowdy bar behavior, but locals have long been critical of the islands disorderly tourism industry and sex-fueled attractions.

In 2008, for instance, Matthew Cryer, a 17-year-old from Sheffield, England, died outside a drinking establishment in the Zakynthos village of Zante. The original police report claimed Cryer had drank himself to death his family, however, insisted that he had been killed by four of the staff. A Greek court eventually decided in 2014 that the four men would not face legal action, according to the BBC.

Also in 2008, Reuters reported that 15 British citizens along with six Greek citizens had been arrested after partaking in an oral sex competition on Zakynthos Laganas Beach. At the time of the arrests, police said the tourists had been paid to compete, and the ensuing footage was released on the Internet.

BEYOND KIDNAPPING, TOURISTS FACE MOUNTING CRIMINAL THREATS WORLDWIDE, EXPERTS WARN

The Independent, too, shared a statement from a Zakynthos-based doctor who said he frequently investigated rape complaints from women who came in so drunk, they couldn't remember when or if theyd had sex that evening.

Visitors and their drunken exploits/crimes arent only confined to Zakythos or its touristy village of Laganas, either. The Guardian reported that locals to Malia, in Crete, Faliraki, in Rhodes, and Cavos, on Corfu, have also seen their share of rowdy resort-goers, including the 2008 incident in which six British tourists to Malia beat a shop-owner who requested that they drive slower around their resort, and four Northern Irish men who gang-raped another English tourist that same year, while filming the act on their phones.

Oddly enough, some of the rowdier revelers to the Greek islands post pictures of themselves during or after a night out, often bragging about how hard they partied on vacation.

What is wrong with the British? Crete police officer Yiannis Kyriakakis asked The Guardian following those crimes. 'Why can't you have fun calmly?

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A reporter for Vice Greecewrote in 2014 that locals are expected to ignore the tawdry behavior of tourists from Britain, Germany, Australia and Italy, so as not to affect tourism dollars. ([Laganas has] become a Mecca for sexually depraved English tourists, wrote Vice.) But some, like a group in Cavos, have tried to fight back by posting embarrassing photos of the drunken tourists on Facebook, in an effort to shame future visitors into behaving, according to the Daily Mail.

It may prove more difficult to ignore such behavior following Hendersons murder, which has since prompted a response from the U.S. State Department.

"Greek police in Zakynthos notified the U.S. Embassy of the death of a U.S. citizen in the early morning hours of Friday, July 7," the department told Time in an official statement. "We are in communication with authorities and providing consular assistance to the deceased citizens family."

Read more here:

Greek island where American tourist was killed known for debauchery, violence - Fox News

The Fourth of July has come and gone, and for Cape and Islands employers grappling with a worker shortage, reality has set in. This is going to be a rough summer.

Businesses are getting by hiring anyone who walks in the door, bringing on more students, even giving shifts to foreign workers brought to the United States by other companies, which is against the law. But training and overtime costs are starting to pile up, and some employers have had to turn away banquet business and cancel landscaping contracts, for example, because they dont have enough employees.

The popular PB Boulangerie Bistro in Wellfleet is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays due to difficulty finding staff. On the morning of the Fourth, a Nantucket innkeeper got a frantic call from another inn desperate for housekeepers, but had no one to spare. At least one Cape Cod cleaning company has started bringing in workers from Puerto Rico who are US citizens and dont need work visas.

Boston.com on the go! Download our free app.

See the article here:

Lack of visa workers has Cape and Islands hotspots in a bind - Boston.com

The woman said to resemble pilot Amelia Earhart is seen sitting on the dock in the centre of the picture. Photograph: Reuters

Claims made in a US documentary that the pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart crash-landed on the Marshall Islands in the Pacific Ocean and was taken prisoner by the Japanese appear to have been proved false by a photograph unearthed in a travel book.

The History Channel documentary, Amelia Earhart: The Lost Evidence, which aired in the US on Sunday, made the claim that the American and her navigator, Fred Noonan, ended up in Japanese custody based on a photograph discovered in the US national archives that purported to show them standing at a harbour on one of the islands.

The film said the image may hold the key to solving one of historys all-time greatest mysteries and suggested it disproved the widely accepted theory that Earhart and Noonan disappeared over the western Pacific on 2 July 1937 near the end of their attempt at a history-making flight around the world.

But serious doubts now surround the films premise after a Tokyo-based blogger unearthed the same photograph in the archives of the National Diet Library, Japans national library.

The image was part of a Japanese-language travelogue about the South Seas that was published almost two years before Earhart disappeared. Page 113 states the book was published in Japanese-held Palau on 10 October 1935.

The caption beneath the image makes no mention of the identities of the people in the photograph. It describes maritime activity at the harbour on Jabor in the Jaluit atoll the headquarters for Japans administration of the Marshall Islands between the first world war and its defeat in the second world war.

The caption notes that monthly races between schooners belonging to local tribal leaders and other vessels turned the port into a bustling spectacle.

Kota Yamano, a military history blogger who unearthed the Japanese photograph, said it took him just 30 minutes to effectively debunk the documentarys central claim.

I have never believed the theory that Earhart was captured by the Japanese military, so I decided to find out for myself, Yamano told the Guardian. I was sure that the same photo must be on record in Japan.

Yamano ran an online search using the keyword Jaluit atoll and a decade-long timeframe starting in 1930.

The photo was the 10th item that came up, he said. I was really happy when I saw it. I find it strange that the documentary makers didnt confirm the date of the photograph or the publication in which it originally appeared. Thats the first thing they should have done.

Yamanos Twitter post fuelled social media discussion of the possible cause of Earharts disappearance and criticism of the History Channel documentary.

The photograph shows a woman with her back to the camera, whom the film suggests is Earhart, alongside a man purportedly Noonan whose face is visible, with other people standing on a dock on Jaluit atoll in the Marshall Islands.

Earhart and Noonan were last seen taking off in her twin-engine Lockheed Electra on 2 July 1937, from Papua New Guinea en route to Howland Island, about 2,500 miles away.

The documentary, hosted by former FBI executive assistant director Shawn Henry, also alleges a cover-up, claiming that the US government knew of her whereabouts but did nothing to rescue her.

The film cites facial-recognition and other forensic testing that confirmed the photographs authenticity, and concluded that the two figures in question were likely to be Earhart and Noonan.

The film describes Earhart as a world-famous aviator who got caught up in an international dispute, was abandoned by her own government, and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Henry said: She may very well be the first casualty of world war two.

The picture clearly indicates that Earhart was captured by the Japanese, said retired US treasury agent Les Kinney, who unearthed the image in the US national archives in 2012.

The version of the photo Kinney found in the US archives is undated, but he has said he believes it was taken in July 1937 a theory now disproved by the image from Japanese archives.

The Marshall Island theory, which the photograph is alleged to support, has been around since at least the 1960s and was fuelled by accounts from Marshall Islanders, who claimed they watched the aircraft land and saw Earhart and Noonan in Japanese custody.

The History Channel website said new evidence suggests that Earhart died in Japanese custody on the island of Saipan. Wally Earhart, Amelias cousin, has said without offering evidence that she died of dysentery and other illnesses, while Noonan was beheaded by the Japanese.

Conspiracy theories have abounded for decades, since no trace of Earhart, Noonan or their plane has ever been confirmed.

Other experts have cast doubt on the documentarys photos claims. Ric Gillespie, executive director of the International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery, said there was no evidence that the person in the photograph was Earhart.

Gillespie believes Earhart died as a castaway on the island of Nikumaroro, Kiribati, where a partial skeleton was discovered in 1940. There is such an appetite for anything related to Amelia Earhart that even something this ridiculous will get everybody talking about it, said Gillespie, author of Finding Amelia.

This is just a picture of a wharf at Jaluit [in the Marshall Islands], with a bunch of people, Gillespie said. Its just silly. And this is coming from a guy who has spent the last 28 years doing genuine research into the Earhart disappearance and led 11 expeditions into the South Pacific.

Matthew B Holly, a military expert, told Agence France-Presse the photo appeared to have been taken about a decade earlier than the date given by the History Channel.

From the Marshallese visual background, lack of Japanese flags flying on any vessels but one, and the age configuration of the steam-driven steel vessels, the photo is closer to the late 1920s or early 1930s, not anywhere near 1937, he said.

Read the original here:

Blogger discredits claim Amelia Earhart was taken prisoner by Japan - The Guardian

MAJURO, MARSHALL ISLANDS A Marshall Islands-based military expert has cast further doubt on claims that a blurry photograph shows famed U.S. aviatrix Amelia Earhart alive in the territory in 1937.

The fate of the legendary American and her navigator, Fred Noonan, during their round-the-world flight is one of aviations greatest mysteries, and has fascinated historians for decades.

Earhart and Noonan vanished on July 2, 1937, after taking off from Lae, Papua New Guinea, and the prevailing belief is that they ran out of fuel and ditched their twin-engine Lockheed Electra in the Pacific Ocean near remote Howland Island.

But a documentary being aired on the History Channel Amelia Earhart: The Lost Evidence claims to have unearthed a beguiling new clue about what happened to the pair.

The program suggests that Earhart, who was seeking to become the first woman flier to circumnavigate the globe, and Noonan may have survived and been taken prisoner by Japanese forces.

It cites a blurry black-and-white photograph discovered in the National Archives in Washington, purportedly showing the pair in the Marshall Islands after their capture.

But military expert Matthew B. Holly told AFP the photo appeared to have been taken about a decade earlier.

From the Marshallese visual background, lack of Japanese flags flying on any vessels but one, and the age configuration of the steam-driven steel vessels, the photo is closer to the late 1920s or early 1930s, not anywhere near 1937, he told AFP.

Holly, an American living in Majuro, has spent decades identifying the locations of lost US aircraft and the identities of American servicemen killed in action in the Western Pacific nation.

He added that by January 1937 the Japanese had closed most of Micronesia to foreign vessels, including Marshallese commerce, which is obviously flourishing in this photo.

Additionally, there are no Japanese sailors to be seen.

There is no dispute that the photo shows the dock at Jabor Island in Jaluit Atoll, which was the headquarters for Japans administration of the Marshall Islands between World War I and World War II.

During the 1920s and early 1930s, Japanese businesses flourished on Jaluit, purchasing copra dried coconut flesh used to make coconut oil from Marshall Islanders.

But The International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery (TIGHAR), which has spent decades trying to figure out what happened to Earhart and Noonan, also disputes that they are the pair in the photo.

Executive director Richard Gillespie previously told AFP the photo was laughable as a piece of evidence.

This is just a picture of some people on Jaluit wharf, he said. Where are the Japanese? Where are the soldiers?

Marshall Islanders have also claimed over the years that Earhart and Noonan survived an emergency landing and were captured by the Japanese.

Two years ago, American investigators additionally said they had located parts of Earharts plane on Mili Atoll in the Marshall Islands.

But Holly maintained it was unlikely the photo was taken in 1937.

Generally, there would be a series of photos in the same folder which could have also time-dated the photo, Holly said.

There is no date of 1937 associated with this photo.

See the original post here:

Marshall Islands-based military expert casts doubt on Earhart photo claims - The Japan Times

A new theory about the fate of Amelia Earhart is seriously undermined by evidence obtained by The Daily Beast. The theory, to be aired Sunday in a History Channel documentary, claims that Earhart and her navigator, Fred Noonan, were rescued by the Japanese after crash landing in the Marshall Islands and then taken to a Japanese prison where they died in captivity.

The pivot of the documentarys case is a photograph, undated, of a wharf at Jaluit Island, one of the scores of atolls that make up the Marshall Islands. A forensic expert who specializes in facial recognition appears in the program to support the claim that Earhart and Noonan are among a group of people on the wharf.

Just beyond the wharf, in the harbor, is a Japanese military vessel identified as the Koshu Maru. The documentary suggests that after this picture was taken Earhart and Noonan were arrested and taken aboard the Koshu Maru and that a barge alongside contained the remains of their Lockheed Electra airplane.

According to the documentary, it is likely that the Koshu Maru then sailed for the island of Saipan where the two Americans were imprisoned and then killed.

The role of the Koshu Maru (maru means ship in Japanese) is therefore crucial to the theory that Earhart and Noonan are, indeed, the people in the photograph.

However, in 1982 a Japanese author and journalist, Fukiko Aoki, published a book in Japanese, Looking for Amelia. She found a surviving crewmember of the Koshu Maru, a telegraphist named Lieutenant Sachinao Kouzu. He told her that, like other Japanese ships in the western Pacific, they were told that Earhart had disappeared while over the ocean and were alerted to look out for any sign of the airplane and, if they did, seek to rescue Earhart and Noonan.

After a few days, said Kouzo, the alert was dropped. At no time did anyone on Koshu Maru set eyes on the Americans, alive or dead.

Aoki told The Daily Beast that her interest in the Earhart story was sparked when she read a story about four Japanese meteorologists who were assigned to a weather station on Greenwich Island in the South Pacific. As soon as they arrived at the station early in July 1937, they received a government message to look out for the aviators and, if they saw them, to organize a rescue operation. They saw nothing.

The disappearance of Amelia Earhart looks so different from the Japanese and American sides, Aoki told The Daily Beast. One of the weathermen, an old guy called Yoneji Inoue, protested against the theory that Amelia was captured and executed by the Japanese. I wanted to find out what really happened. I found and checked the log of the Koshu Maru, but of course I couldnt find any description of the capture of Amelia Earhart.

Aoki later moved to New York where she became bureau chief for the Japanese edition of Newsweek. She has written 12 books. Looking for Amelia was republished as a paperback in 1995 but only in Japanese.

The four meteorologists were taken to Greenwich Island on the Koshu Maru, arriving on July 3, the day after Earhart disappeared. Greenwich Island is now named Kapingamaranji,and is 1,500 miles from the Marshall Island where the photo supposedly of Earhart was taken, which means that the vessel was nowhere near the Marshall Islands at the crucial time.

As Aokis research indicates, the assumption that the Japanese military was under orders to arrest and quietly kill Earhart and Noonan them shows little understanding of what was happening in the Pacific at the time.

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The war in the Pacific didnt begin with Pearl Harbor. It began on July 7, 1937, five days after Earhart disappeared, when a minor clash between Japanese and Chinese troops near Beijing suddenly turned into all-out war between the two nations.

The last thing the Japanese needed was to inflame American opinion by murdering the worlds most-famous woman. Although they had a formidable air force and navy the Japanese were distracted by Soviet Russias claims to Japanese islands and at that time they also feared American naval power in the Pacific. America, in turn, wanted no part of the war in China.

Just how anxious both the U.S. and Japan were to avoid conflict was revealed by an incident in December 1937. An American gunboat, the USS Panay, that was allowed to patrol the Yangtze River by international agreement, was called in to evacuate staff from the U.S. embassy in Nanking, as well as some international journalists as the Japanese carpet-bombed the city.

The Panay sailed upriver to what the captain thought would be a safe refuge and anchored alongside other boats laden with Chinese refugees.

But a swarm of Japanese bombers attacked all the boats, including the Panay. Two U.S. crewmen and an Italian journalist were killed. The Japanese claimed that the attack was an accident. President Roosevelt was so anxious that the bombing should not lead to calls for retaliation that he censored newsreel footage. The Japanese, alarmed that they might have awakened a sleeping tiger, paid $2.2 million in compensation.

Then there is how the Japanese treated Charles Lindbergh.

In August 1931, he flew from Alaska across the Bering Sea to Japan in a seaplane with his wife Anne. Thick fog forced Lindbergh to make a blind landing using only his instruments. After touchdown, with the engine shut down, the airplane drifted dangerously close to rocks and was rescued by a Japanese boat that towed them to a safe harbor.

When they reached Tokyo the Japanese gave the Lindberghs a welcome that one newspaper said was one of the greatest demonstrations ever seen in the ancient capital.

As for Earhart, there was no military intelligence value to the Japanese in getting their hands on her Lockheed Electra. The Electra was widely used by airlines across the world and held no technological secrets. By 1937 the Japanese were mass-producing a Mitsubishi bomber so far superior to the similarly-sized Electra that when it was converted to an airliner it flew a record-breaking round-the-world flight.

The theory that Earthart crash landed in the Marshall Islands is not supported by the basic rules of geography and navigation. It rests on the idea that, once Earhart realized she had missed a scheduled rendezvous with a U.S. Coast Guard cutter on tiny Howland Island, she reversed direction.

The Marshall Islands are 800 miles northwest of Howland Island, way beyond the range of the Electra as it was running low on gas at the end of a long leg from Papua New Guinea, over the Pacific.

Her only option was to look for a landing place that was much closer and, ideally, ahead of her rather than far behind.

Her last message to the cutter was at 8:43 a.m. on July 2. It was that she was flying on a line of 157 337 that is, the southeasterly course from her starting point that intersected Howland Island. Because of an unexplained problem with the Electras radio, the cutter could receive her messages but she couldnt receive the replies.

As a result, in the 80-year search for Earhart there is nothing to go on to point to her final position beyond what was in that radio transmission. Yet on the basis of that one transmission we arrive at the next most prominent theory about Earharts fate.

This takes us to an atoll named Nikumaroro Island, 350 miles southeast of Howland Island, and to Ric Gillespie, chief executive of The International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery, TIGHAR.

Gillespie is the best funded and most persistent of all Earhart hunters. Since 1989 he has directed 12 expeditions to Nikumaroro, partly funded by National Geographic, and each expedition follows the same pattern: advance publicity that garners a gullible audience and funds, followed by negligible results, some bordering on the ludicrous.

Gillespie gave scientific credence to his theory by analyzing 120 reports of radio traffic in the area of Nikumaroro at the time and deciding that 57 messages were possibly transmitted from the Electra, beginning three hours after the final transmission picked up by the Coast Guard cutter.

To believe this demands two leaps of faith or, more likely, of the imagination. The first is that Earhart managed to land on the atoll and the second is that she did so with such skill that her radio remained able to operate.

Such a landing would have required a near miraculous feat of airmanship. Nikumaroro is a typical coral atoll sitting atop a volcano with a rocky reef looping around a lagoon with only a tiny appendage of flat surface. And although she did not lack courage, Earhart was not a pilot of natural intuitive skills, like Lindbergh, and the Electra was an unforgiving machine in a marginal situation like this.

Earhart, under the stress of knowing that her fuel was running out, would have had to align her approach over water at a shallow angle and make a finely-judged touchdown with no margin of error. Landing on an aircraft carrier would be much easier.

For the radio signal theory to have any credence the airplane then had to remain undamaged by water for days.

For a fraction of the money that TIGHAR has invested and is still investing in its expeditions they could have commissioned a computer program to simulate the landing. All the necessary data about the handling characteristics of the Electra and the probable weather and sea conditions at the time are available. The trouble is, of course, that this would prove the impossibility of the idea.

Gillespie was, not surprisingly, dissed when told of the History Channel revelation about the Marshall Islands.

This is just a picture of a wharf at Jaluit with a bunch of people, its just silly, he said.

This happened when Gillespie had just sent another expedition to Nikumaroro, this time including four sniffer dogs trained by the Institute for Canine Forensics. The dogs arrived wearing life vests when the temperature was more than 100 degrees. They were looking for human remains the latest spin of the theory being that Earhart and Noonan had perished there.

The Earhart saga will go on providing endless fuel for lovers of the classic vanishing airplane narratives. People in the grip of a pet theory will go to great lengths to believe in that theory on the thinnest evidence. Gillespie, for example, seized on the discovery of a jar of 1930s ointment for the treatment of freckles found in the waters near Nikumaroro as evidence that Earhart, famously freckled, had made it to the island.

Freckles would not have been of much concern as Earhart planned her flight. Nothing that was not essential was carried in the Electra. She was piloting what was virtually a flying gas station. In place of passenger seats the airplane was stuffed with six large extra gas tanks and had another six in the wings, as well as having to carry 80 gallons of oil for its hot-running supercharged engines.

There is, to be sure, no reason to stop looking for Earhart, Noonan and the Electra. The odds are that after a desperate search for land they ended up, out of fuel, ditching into the ocean, and then plunged as far as 17,000 feet down to the bottom of the ocean. They most certainly didnt die in a Japanese prison.

See the article here:

Amelia Earhart Captured and Killed? New Evidence Debunks History Channel's Crazy Theory - Daily Beast

Is there no limit to the level of disgusting behavior on college campuses that parents, taxpayers, donors and legislators will accept? Colleges have become islands of intolerance, and as with fish, the rot begins at the head. Lets examine some recent episodes representative of a general trend and ask ourselves why we should tolerate it plus pay for it.

Students at Evergreen State College harassed biology professor Bret Weinstein because he refused to leave campus, challenging the schools decision to ask white people to leave campus for a day of diversity programming. The profanity-laced threats against the faculty and president can be seen on a YouTube video titled Student takeover of Evergreen State College

What about administrators permitting students to conduct racially segregated graduation ceremonies, which many colleges have done, including Ivy League ones such as Columbia and Harvard universities? Permitting racially segregated graduation ceremonies makes a mockery of the idols of diversity, multiculturalism and inclusion, which so many college administrators worship. Or is tribalism part and parcel of diversity?

Trinity College sociology professor Johnny Eric Williams recently called white people inhuman and he added another word that is unprintable. In the wake of the Alexandria, Virginia, shooting at a congressional baseball practice, Williams tweeted, It is past time for the racially oppressed to do what people who believe themselves to be white will not do, put (an) end to the vectors of their destructive mythology of whiteness and their white supremacy system. #LetThem-Die

June Chu, dean of Pierson College at Yale University, recently resigned after having been placed on leave because of offensive Yelp reviews she had posted. One of her reviews described customers at a local restaurant as white trash and low class folk; another review praised a movie theater for its lack of sketchy crowds. In another review of a movie theater, she complained about the barely educated morons trying to manage snack orders for the obese.

Harvey Mansfield, a distinguished Harvard University professor who has taught at the school for 55 years, is not hopeful about the future of American universities. In a College Fix interview, Mansfield said, No, Im not very optimistic about the future of higher education, at least in the form it is now with universities under the control of politically correct faculties and administrators.

Once Americas pride, universities, he says, are no longer a marketplace of ideas or bastions of free speech. Universities have become bubbles of decadent liberalism that teach students to look for offense when first examining an idea.

Who is to blame for the decline of American universities? Mansfield argues that it is a combination of administrators, students and faculties. He puts most of the blame on faculty members, some of whom are cowed by deans and presidents who dont want their professors to make trouble.

I agree with Mansfields assessment in part. Many university faculty members are hostile to free speech and open questioning of ideas. A large portion of todays faculty and administrators were once the hippies of the 1960s, and many have contempt for the U.S. Constitution and the values of personal liberty.

The primary blame for the incivility and downright stupidity we see on university campuses lies with the universities trustees. Every board of trustees has fiduciary responsibility for the governance of a university, shaping its broad policies. Unfortunately, most trustees are wealthy businessmen who are busy and arent interested in spending time on university matters. They become trustees for the prestige it brings, and as such, they are little more than yes men for the university president and provost. If trustees want better knowledge about university goings-on, they should hire a campus ombudsman who is independent of the administration and accountable only to the board of trustees.

The university malaise reflects a larger societal problem. Mansfield says culture used to mean refinement. Today, he says, it just means the way a society happens to think, and theres no value judgment in it any longer.

For many of todays Americans, one cultural value is just as good as another.

^

Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University. His column is distributed by Creators Syndicate, 5777 W. Century Blvd., Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA 90045.

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Walter Williams: Colleges: Islands of Intolerance - LubbockOnline.com

The couple are already plotting their future

LOVE Island stars Jessica Shears and Dominic Lever have revealed they are in love and planning to move in together after making their relationship official.

The couple have been spending a lot of time together since they reunited outside of the villa and they have now told fans they are planning a future together.

ITV

The stars opened up about their romance on spin-off show Aftersun tonight and they made a big admission as they told host Caroline Flack they are in love.

Dom also revealed they are planning to move in together.

When asked about their relationship status, he said: Its official we are girlfriend and boyfriend.

When Caroline pressed him about the L word and whether it means they are in love, he added: It does.

I completed love island.

Dom is currently based in Manchester and Jess is in Devon, but they are now planning to buy a house and rent a flat together.

ITV

He added: Were going to buy in Manchester and rent in London

We need bases.

It was an emotional episode for the stars as it also showed them having a confrontation over Jess romp withMike Thalassitis.

Jess insisted all she did in the hotel room with Mike was talk and slather on face masks but fans dont believe her.

Some demanded the pair go on Jeremy Kyle for a lie detector test.

ITV

The Sun Online exclusively revealed that Jess and Mike had a night of passion at a hotel after they were given the boot from the show.

Dom was left outraged by the news, and he finally confronted her about the romp on spin-off show Aftersun tonight.

Jess denied she had sex with Mike, insisting they just put face masks on and sat on the hotel room bed talking about life in the villa.

She said: "Literally, we just sat there with face masks on, chatted about the villa and went to bed."

Mike also insisted they didn't have sex during their night of passion, saying: "He's lucky that I didn't try to stick it on her."

Dom decided to believe their story, but many viewers were convinced the pair were not telling the truth about the saucy night.

ITV

One viewer wrote: "Take mess in Jeremy Kyle for a lie detector test #LoveIsland."

Another tweeted: "Still don't believe Jess and Mike."

The Sun Online exclusively revealed that Jess beddedDom's rival Mike Thalassitis just hours after being dumped from the show.

They had sex at a hotel, and devastated Dom even stormed out of the villa when he heard about the betrayal.

He was overwhelmed with emotion when he asked her about her romp with Mike, saying: "How did you do that?"

Dom breaks down as he says: "There's so much going on in me head.

Mike insisted Dom should be glad he 'didn't stick it on Jess'

"I just want to hear from you, what's the deal with the pictures of you coming out of a hotel with Mike?

"I knew something was up."

Jess then says: "Honestly, don't," before Dom continues: "First it was anger, then it was just betrayal I suppose.

"How did you do that?...

"Do you know what I don't get is how you were mates with him when you didn't like him in the villa."

After their romp,Jess and Mike were reunitedas they appeared on This Morning together - and they looked closer than ever.

The Sun Online went on to reveal they were "all over each" other backstage at the show shortly before Jess reunited with Dom.

They were spotted spending the night together at a London hotel and they have been inseparable ever since.

Originally posted here:

Love Island's Jessica Shears and Dominic Lever reveal they are in love and planning to move in together as they make ... - The Sun

The money was handed over to Forums Secretary General, Dame Meg Taylor last week.

During the handover, the SG thanked China for their ongoing support through the fund and strong relationship between China and Pacific.

Id particularly like to thank you for the ongoing support to the Pacific Trade and Invest (PTI China) office in Beijing. The trade relationships we have with China are very important and the work of this office continues to help in their development, she said.

Chinas Ambassador, Zhang Ping said China attached great importance to the relationship with Pacific Islands and cooperation and looks at extending this in future.

China always attaches great importance to the relationship with Pacific Island Countries, and looks forward to further enhancing the bilateral dialogue, exchanges and cooperation in various fields and persists to provide assistance and aid within its capacity, said Ambassador Ping.

We sincerely welcome the Pacific Island Countries participation in the cooperation of Belt and Road Initiative to realise common development through win-win cooperation, he added.

The China-PIF Cooperative Fund was established in 2000 to support trade, investment, tourism and personal exchange between China and Forum countries.

One of the key initiatives under the fund is PTI China which works closely with Forum Country Embassies in Beijing to develop and strengthen networks between Pacific businesses and Chinese markets.

Trade statistics released by PTI China last year showed that the fourteen Forum Island Countries exported US$2.5 billion worth of goods to China in 2015, up from US$2 billion in 2014.

Chinas exports to the Forum Island Countries in the same year doubled from US$2.5 billion in 2014 to US$5 billion.

The Fund also enabled the China-PIFS Regional Scholarship Scheme which doubled its intake last year and has seen more than 80 students study a wide range of subjects recently.

The subjects include engineering, international law, medicine, information & communications technology, agriculture, and commerce in Chinese institutions.

The handover follows the trip to China earlier this year by the Secretary General during which she met with Chinese Minister for Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi.

Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed that China stood ready to support Pacific Island Countries and encouraged them to take up the opportunities offered by its Belt and Road strategy for economic and people to people cooperation.

China has been a Dialogue Partner of the Forum since 1990.

Link:

People's Republic of China continues to support the Pacific Islands Forum - Loop PNG

Fiji are a step closer to the knockout rounds after their second straight win at the Netball World Youth Cup in Botswana.

The Baby Pearls thrashed Trinidad and Tobago 55-28 in their tournament opener and backed it up with a comprehensive 48-35 victory over Wales on Monday at the UB Indoor Sports Arena.

Meanwhile the Cook Islands lost their second match against hosts Botswana as they continue to be hampered by a gastro bug that swept through the squad on their arrival in Gaborone.

The Baby Black Pearls had let a five goal advantage slip in a 43-41 defeat by Jamaica at the weekend and led briefly this morning before the home side ran out 51-41 winners in front of a vocal home crowd.

The Cook Islands squad pushed Jamaica close despite suffering from a gastro bug. Photo: Facebook / Netball Cook Islands

Head coach John Glassie said nine of their 12 players have been hit with the bug, which has been lingering for more than a week.

He said the team have moved accommodation in recent days, which has helped, and are monitoring closely what food the players are eating.

"It's still a bit there, a few of the players are still suffering from it but we've been trying to deal with it," he said.

"We ran out of medication after like four days so we've been going to the event doctors getting more medication every couple of days.

"So the girls are getting better but obviously not being able to hold your food down and that sort of thing does play a part in preparation so that's why these physical games are taking such a toll out of the players."

Photo: Netball World Youth Cup

While his team was far from 100 percent, John Glassie acknowledged the role played by the raucous home fans, who helped inspire their team to victory.

"With Botswana the major factor there would have been crowd and after seeing briefly the live footage it's hard to comprehend how loud the crowd actually is.

"Just being able to talk to the players and that sort of thing - we're trying to yell out during the breaks - and even talking to my assistant coach next to me we had to yell at each other because it was deafening."

"They had a great support from their home-based crowd and it really did make a difference. The girls said it was very hard to concentrate it was so loud, it was deafening at some stages."

"Botswana, they're actually used to that sort of cheering and that loud vocal support whereas our crowd wouldn't have played in anything quite as hostile or even half as loud as that - something we tried to plan for but it's very hard to adjust to that sort of thing."

Meanwhile Samoa were thrashed 85-33 by defending champions New Zealand in their first match and Australia produced the most lopsided result to date, thumping Singapore 119-12.

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Sport: Fiji netballers impress as illness bugs Cook Islands - Radio New Zealand

Flooding along Lake Ontario is still causing problems in Toronto, the biggest city in Canada, particularly for the picturesque harbor islands.

Julian Ganton owns Toronto Islands SUP, which stands for stand up paddleboard. He looks like a typical water sports guy in flip flops, board shorts, and sunglasses.

Normally, this time of year, Ganton would be giving tours or lessons, but instead, he is filling his time by paddling with his friends.

Were gonna go check out some of the flooded areas of the island, and just take a tour through some of the lagoons, he said.

The Toronto Islands are a huge pull for tourists. They are just a short ferry from downtown Toronto, with beachy cottages, boardwalks and bicycles there are virtually no cars on the islands.

But right now, theres almost no one there. Restaurants and other businesses are suffering.

Undeterred, Ganton sees the opportunity for a new marketing strategy.

"It's been slower, of course," he said. "But we do feature in showing people the natural phenomenon and what it means to the natural landscapes: showing them flooded areas, touring the lagoons Theres definitely more to paddle.

The islands were hit hard by the heavy spring rains that raised the level of Lake Ontario by two-and-a-half feet. This spring they lost a lot of their beaches, water is pooling in people's yards, and their sewer systems are overwhelmed.

Currently, the islands are technically closed. Theres even a white piece of paper taped to the window of the ticket counter in the ferry terminal which says: Toronto Islands Closed until July 31. But, if you say youre headed over for a day trip, you can get a ticket anyway.

Thats how Aviva Wade says she got over. She says she told the guy selling tickets she was visiting the islands for lunch with a friend.

And to check out whats been going on after this unbelievable springtime weve had.

As a visitor, she says shes not particularly bothered by the lack of people on what would usually be a busy summer day.

Its kind of nice, Wade said. Youre going to have the place to yourself.

Besides restaurants and beaches, the islands have another draw, their main attraction the Centre Island Amusement Park.

Its part theme park, part petting zoo, part event space for parties and weddings. The theme park has a log flume, a little Ferris wheel and roller coaster a lot geared for smaller children.

This year the park turns 50. Usually, it would be full of people in the swan boats, eating funnel cakes or taking pony rides. Some would be putting their heads in those plywood cutouts painted like pirates and mermaids and making faces.

But now it's empty. It is here that the islands' closure feels the most dramatic, maybe because abandoned amusement parks are already kind of eerie.

The islands are scheduled to re-open in late July, assuming they dont have any unforeseen problems or lingering health concerns. Workers are worried about standing water breeding mosquitos, or E. coli in the water from sewage problems.

But so far so good. The water continues to go down, and more of the beach is visible every day.

Right now crews are cleaning up the park, getting ready for summer visitors hoping they come back.

Originally posted here:

Toronto harbor islands hurt by Lake Ontario flooding - WRVO Public Media

TOKYO, July 8. /TASS/. Japan's government says the trip of the country's delegation of officials and businesses to South Kuril Islands on June 27 - July 1 would favor greatly signing of a peace treaty with Russia, Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Hiroshige Seko said in an interview with TASS on Saturday.

"Between June 27 and July 1, a Japanese delegation for the first time made research related to the cooperation on the four islands," the minister said. "This trip complied with agreements on the top level; from the point of details for the cooperation, this trip was very fruitful in terms of its objectives, scales and contents."

"A direct impact on improvement of trust and understanding (between Japan and Russia - TASS) has the fact that we continue discussions about joint cooperation, without affecting each other's positions, and the Japanese and Russians are working together on future of the four islands," he said. "I am confident, this favors signing of the peace treaty, and leaders of our countries confirm this."

"During this research, we received information, including opinions of our experts, our partners," he continued. "Based on this data, we shall analyze thoroughly what projects could be implemented without conflicting legal positions of the countries, and still picking the projects which we shall promote first of all."

Besides, the minister said, "on July 7, leaders of our countries touched upon this topic."

"As for the Japanese side, we shall study results of that trip at the upcoming meeting of the Council on cooperation, which will feature Foreign Minister [Fumio] Kushida," he said. "We shall analyze the received information and shall continue working on the projects."

Japanese delegations visit

The delegation featured members of the Japanese government office, officials from the Foreign Ministry, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, as well as from the Hokkaido Prefecture. They visited 64 facilities, including hospitals, electric power plants, sports centers, as well as a hotel complex under construction.

On December 15-16, 2016, the Russian president visited Japan for the first in eleven years. The peace treaty issue and the South Kuril Islands issue topped the agenda, while bilateral cooperation was also discussed. Vladimir Putin and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe adopted a joint statement saying that consultations on joint economic activities on the South Kuril Islands could become an important step on the way to a peace treaty.

Russia and Japan have been holding consultations since the mid-20th century in order to clinch a peace treaty as a follow-up to World War II. The Kuril Islands issue remains the sticking point since after WWII the islands were handed over to the Soviet Union while Japan has laid claims to the four southern islands.

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Visit of Japan's delegation to Kuril Islands favors treaty with Russia - Japanese minister - TASS

Tattooed hunk who tried to woo Camilla shares a joke with famous cousin Amy from Towie as they meet up in Brentwood

LOVE Island hunk Craig Lawson enjoys a stroll and a chat with his Towie cousin Amy Childs after returning to the UK.

The tattooed Essex lad, who bagged himself a snog with Camilla Thurlow on the ITV2 show, grinned as he joked about with new mum Amy.

Flynet Pictures Tel : +44 (0)20 3551 5049 Email :

Flynet Pictures Tel : +44 (0)20 3551 5049 Email :

Tanned glamourpuss Amy and walking work of art Craig hardly looked like birds of a feather during their walk on the streets of their native Brentwood in Essex.

But dad-of-three Craig,who angered his ex-girlfriend by going on Love Island, seemed delighted to be in the stars company, four days after being kicked off the programme with Nathan and Danielle who are now dating each other.

Red-haired Amy only revealed herself to be the cousin of Craig after hed gone into the Love Island villa, a few weeks into the 2017 series.

She wished him all the best on Twitter, writing:Good luck to my cousin Craig that has just entered the Love Island villa.

At the moment it sounds like Amy might need a spell on the island of love herself, though.

The reality TV favourite recently split from ex-convict boyfriend Bradley Wright, the father of her baby daughter, six weeks after giving birth.

Flynet Pictures Tel : +44 (0)20 3551 5049 Email :

Flynet Pictures Tel : +44 (0)20 3551 5049 Email :

But Amy, who seems to have lost a lot of weight since the birth, has ruled out moving on from Bradley as she says hes being a great dad to their daughter Polly.

Amy left Towie in 2011 and went on to major career success in other TV shows and in retail career success which Craig may now be aspiring to.

He certainly made his mark in the Love Island villa, doing some serious grafting to impress Camilla Thurlow after her heart was broken by Jonny Mitchell.

ITV

In the end Camilla who had a fling with Prince Harry didnt think their romance had a future and all they shared together was a snog before Craig was driven to the airport.

Viewers werent all conviced that Craigs feelings for Cam were genuine, but after leaving the show he hit back, saying: For me I had a very strong connection with her before I went in there because I felt I could understand her.

ITV Picture Desk

Im 100 per cent in or nothing. I werent going to go in there and play hard to get and mess around with her emotions, he added.

However, it seems Craig was anticipating a big TV future for himself and Camilla as hed signed up to an agency to get them both their own TV show BEFORE going into Love Island.

He also raised suspicions among viewers by saying he and Camilla could be the next Pro Green and Millie Mackintosh, something that had been mentioned on social media as soon as he arrived on the programme.

Got a story? email digishowbiz@the-sun.co.uk or call us direct on 02077824220

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Love Island's Craig Lawson spends some quality time with his cousin Amy Childs in Essex - The Sun

Jeannie Conway, of Vinalhaven, handed a surprise over to Kevin Waters, owner of Penobscot Island Air, at the Knox County Regional Airport. It was July 5, and Owls Head was humming, but her gift stopped him in his tracks. It wasnt just from Conway. The modest package represented the gratitude and good will of residents on Vinalhaven, North Haven and Matinicus. It was a book full of heartfelt comments written by islanders. And stuffed in the back, $3,600 in cash.

But its not about the money, Conway was quick to point out.It was about showing him how much he means to us, and how the islands are behind him 100 percent.

Two days later, and Waters was still overwhelmed by the kindness.

I got to tell you, its old school, he said, over the phone, and in between talking on the radio with pilots who were delivering cargo to islands before weather moved in.Its unbelievable the support of those guys over there. It totally amazes me. When youre down, the islanders really rally. Ididnt expect it, and I didnt know it. They are very special folks.

After one of PIAs planes went down on Vinalhaven June 26, during a routine morning mail run to the island, first responders rushed to the scene to help the pilot, Ted Westlake. While the plane was demolished in a stand of trees, Westlake miraculously walked away from the crash, uninjured.

As the Federal Aviation Administration and insurance companies continue to investigate the crash,Penobscot Island Air, familiar to all islanders and citizens of the Midcoast, continues to do what it does best get people and cargo to and from the islands every day, responding to all kinds of personal situations at all hours of the day.

He flies my donuts in every weekend, said Conway, who according to Vinalhaven resident Carol Thompson, is a fundraiser extraordinaire. Conway owns the Islands Closet. She works for the ferry service, and is a firefighter with the Vinalhaven Fire Department. And she doesnt hesitate to help others through rough patches.

Hes a real good friend, she said.He has flown me out of here when my dog was sick, and took me to the vet. He gave me his van [on the mainland] when a family member was in the hospital. If I dont call him to bum something, hell call me and saywhat do you need?

This time, Conway intuitively sensed itwas Waters and Penobscot Island Air that needed something. Support, encouragement, appreciation, a pat on the back. She saw Waters the day after the crash, and noted he was feeling down.

She decided, as community-minded organizers like her often do, that the situation required action.

Were going to have a bake sale, she said.

That snowballed fairly quickly into a raffle, and various Facebook pages, including the North Haven community page, picked up on the effort.

Pretty soon, all manner of raffle items appeared. Conways son works for the Sea Dogs, so the team contributed season tickets, a signed ball, even the last ball pitched in the 2004 World Series. Artist Eric Hopkins donated a print. Nebo Lodge, on North Haven, kicked in, as did approximately 60 other residents and business owners.

At the July Fourth parade on Vinalhaven, a table was set up to sell tickets. A guest book was created, and everyone jotted down individual messages to Waters, and the crew at PIA. Just to express their appreciation,for everything they do, which is not just flying, said Conway.

The money followed, and still does.

Someone just handed me a $20 as I was walking by, she said, two days after she visited Waters at the Owls Head Airport.

So many people depend on him for so many different things, said Conway.At Christmas, I told him about a family that could use help. He loaded his plane with presents for them. Hes a giver, but hes a silent giver. Hes a teddy bear.

The feeling is likewise.

Its a year-round deal, said Waters, choking up just a little.We care very much about them.

Related story

Pilot transported to Rockport hospital following Vinalhaven plane crash

Reach Editorial Director Lynda Clancy at lyndaclancy@penbaypilot.com; 207-706-6657

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Penobscot Bay islands rally for their plane service, send donations and big love - PenBayPilot.com