There's a new attraction for thousands of people enjoying the long holiday weekend on North Carolina's Outer Banks.

Shelly Island is a destination you won't find on a standard map. The giant barrier island suddenly formed in the Atlantic Ocean, almost overnight.

CBS News correspondent Mark Strassmann reports the mile-long island, which measures as wide as a football field, has attracted hundreds of tourists by boat for the Fourth of July.

Pilot Larry Ihler told Strassmann the island "has definitely gotten bigger" and is "more built up."

Strassmann set out by kayak on Monday to explore Shelly Island with County Commissioner Danny Couch, who is a life-long resident of the Outer Banks.

Couch says he's seen barrier islands pop up before, but not like this one, which he first noticed in April.

"This is the mother of all sandbars," Couch said. "All of a sudden, right here where we're sitting. It's a hoss. It's huge. It is big."

The area off North Carolina's coast is one of the most dynamic ocean environments on Earth -- nicknamed the "graveyard of the Atlantic" -- with more than 2,000 documented shipwrecks since 1585.

This mile-long sandbar, dubbed "Shelly Island" for its plethora of seashells and colorful pebbles, has been forming and growing since late spring.

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Two powerful currents collided there -- the Gulf Stream from the Caribbean flowing quickly north, and the Labrador Current from the arctic pushing south.

The currents collide, churning surf and sand at Diamond Shoals, creating a cluster of shifting underwater sandbars off the coast of Cape Hatteras. Satellite imagery shows the large shoal has continued to grow ever since it surfaced last March.

"Nobody will ever be able to predict what's going to come out of the ocean or what it's going to look like," Couch said.

Over Memorial Day, 11-year-old Caleb Regan visited the island for the first time. He noticed shells scattered everywhere and gave the place a name that stuck: Shelly Island.

"I thought it would just be like a little family nickname," Caleb said. "I can't believe it got this big. Very incredible."

Strassmann says tourists keep coming to Shelly Island, both for the shells and the novelty. But aside from its beauty, the island presents potential trouble -- sharks swimming near boaters and waders. It's so new that no federal or state agency regularly patrols the area.

"Right now, nobody's really claiming ownership," Couch said. "It's sort of a no man's land. This could be yours, or mine, or somebody's. But it belongs to the American people. It's a phenomenon. Enjoy it while we have it."

Before you rush here to build a beach house, remember that nature gives and nature takes away. The first hurricane that comes along could blow the island, as big as it is, back into the Atlantic.

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Shelly Island: The new beach off North Carolina's Outer Banks - CBS News

The love island power couple couldn't keep their hands off each other as they checked into a hotel for a night of passion

LOVE Island stunner Jess Shears was reunited with show love Dom Lever for the first time today showing there is no chance of a relationship with Mike Thalassitis.

The reality couple couldnt keep their hands off each other after Dom landed back in the UK, following his exit from the villa on Sunday nights show.

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And checking in to a London hotel, its clear the couple are keen to make a go of their romance back in the real world.

The pair were spotted looking extremely close as they arrived just hours after being reunited in exclusive pictures likely to delight fans of the show who had backed them as a couple.

An onlooker explained: They couldnt keep their hands off each other. It has obviously been a long week apart for them and that seems to have had an impact.

The sexual chemistry was clear Dom was really flirting and Jess was laughing as he cuddled her.

Theres a massive spark between them and they look like theyre planning on spending the night together at a hotel.

News Group Newspapers Ltd

News Group Newspapers Ltd

Jess looked incredible in an extremely low-cut white top and jeans, while Doms casual look appeared to match her as they sat down outside the hotel.

Fans were shocked when Jess exited the villa a week ago, just days after she and Dom became the first couple to have sex on this years series.

They went on to become a solid pairing but were gutted when Jess was axed.

One onlooker said the pair could not keep their hands off each other

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And their relationship was rocked further after claims she had hooked up with rival Mike Thalassitis after being dumped from the show.

Devastated Dom even stormed out of the villa when he heard about the claims, but Jess has insisted nothing happened and has gushed about her fondness for Dom and excitement to see him again.

And the feeling is clearly mutual, after Dom revealed the couple actually had sex EIGHT times while in the villa.

News Group Newspapers Ltd

He joked: We did it in the hideaway and then every night until Jess got voted off. So thats about eight times in all.

I wouldnt question I am the sex king of the show.

But he admitted he was gutted by rumours of Jess fling with Mike, adding there was no way he would pursue a relationship with her if she admitted to bedding the love rival.

He added: No, no way.

I dont think I would make a go of it. I would stay friends with her because weve been on a pretty epic journey together but if thats happened then I suppose everything I thought was special just wasnt to her.

I want to speak to both of them. Jess is my priority and then once Ive spoken to her, Ill contact mike and meet up with him at some point.

Eagle eyed viewers spotted the pair whispering as they were dumped from the shows villa

Jamie Lorriman

Greg Brennan

After being dumped from the show, eagle-eyed viewers saw Mike and Jess exchange whispers in which some even thought she said "let's go f***", but later transpired to have been "let's get f******".

The pair enjoyed a night on the town after landing back in Britain, and were later spotted arriving back at their London hotel at 6am.

But on ITV's This Morning yesterday the pair again insisted: "We're just friends."

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Love Island's Jessica Shears and Dominic Lever reunited for the first time since being dumped from show as she ... - The Sun

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 typicalwater 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 says.

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 island.

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 says, "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 says. 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.

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Toronto harbor islands hurt by Lake Ontario flooding - WXXI News

Plan a getaway to experience Georgia's unique beach communities.

The "best beach" title may depend on individual taste, but whether you seek history, nature, nightlife or just to be left alone, Georgia has a beach for you.

The coast of Georgia is roughly 110 miles and includes 15 barrier islands, four of which (Jekyll, St. Simons, Sea and Tybee) are accessible by car and have become popular resort destinations. The rest of Georgia's islands require transportation by boat and are virtually unspoiled natural escapes.

Jekyll Island was once a winter retreat for Americas richest families, including the Rockefellers, Pulitzers and Vanderbilts. Now a playground for seaside lovers everywhere, Jekyll Island offers a variety of activities ranging from environmental education to plain old-fashioned beach fun.

St. Simons Island charms visitors into staying. The island is home to more permanent residents than any other barrier island in Georgia. The combination of guests and residents means theres a wide variety of shopping, dining and activities available.

For many families, Sea Island has been a mutigenerational destination for decades. This resort caters to families, couples and groups, making each think the resort was made specifically for them.

On Georgias northern coast, Tybee Island is a laid-back beach destination just 20 minutes outside Savannah.

Eagle Island: One of the Private Islands of Georgia: At Eagle Island, youll trade in the car for a boat and cruise the waterways, with pit stops for shelling, birding or whatever youd like.

Little St. Simons Island: The all-inclusive, eco-friendly Lodge on Little St. Simons Island is the perfect getaway for nature lovers.

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A Guide to Georgia's Coast - Explore Georgia.org

China has accused the United States of staging a serious political and military provocation after an American warship sailed near a disputed island in the South China Sea.

The USS Stethem, an American guided-missile destroyer, sailed within 12 nautical miles of Triton Island, a small landmass in the Paracel Islands chain, on Sunday, a U.S. defense official said, marking the second such operation since President Trump took office.

But China, which has enjoyed de facto control of the Paracels since expelling Vietnam in a military engagement in 1974, said the islands, which it calls the Xisha, are an inherent part of Chinese territory.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Stethem had trespassed there, entering the waters without Chinas approval.

Its behavior has violated the Chinese law and relevant international law, infringed upon China's sovereignty, disrupted peace, security and order of the relevant waters and put in jeopardy the facilities and personnel on the Chinese islands, and thus constitutes a serious political and military provocation, spokesman Lu Kang said in a statement.

The Chinese side is dissatisfied with and opposed to the relevant behavior of the U.S. side.

The incident is the latest flare-up in relations in just a few days, and came only hours before Trump spoke by telephone to Chinese President Xi Jinping, on Sunday night in Washington and Monday morning in Beijing.

Chinas state media said the two men discussed brewing issues, but gave no further information except to say that North Korea was expected to top their agenda, while also noting the call came soon after an arms deal with Taiwan was announced.

Last week, Chinas Foreign Ministry expressed outrage over twin American announcements: of a major package of arms sales to Taiwan, and fresh sanctions on North Korea that target a Chinese bank. Lu said then that the wrong moves go against the consensus achieved at Mar-a-Lago, when Trump and Xi met in Florida in April.

U.S. officials said the navys action, known as a freedom-of-navigation operation, or FONOP, was planned in advance, and was not targeted at any one country or aimed at making a political statement.

But China accused the United States of deliberately stirring up trouble in the South China Sea and staging provocative operations that violate China's sovereignty and threaten its security. The Chinese side will continue to take all necessary means to defend national sovereignty and security, Lu said.

Triton Island is claimed by China, Vietnam and Taiwan. In May, a U.S. destroyer sailed well within 12 miles of Mischief Reef, a man-made island in the Spratly Islands to the south of the Paracels.

Fox News, which firstreported on Sundays incident, said a Chinese warship tailed the Stethem as it sailed past the island, although it is unclear how close the ship came to the American vessel.

[New satellite images show reinforced Chinese surface-to-air missile sites near disputed islands]

The 12-mile line is the internationally recognized distance that separates the shores of a sovereign nation from international waters. The United States has routinely conducted voyages within this 12-mile limit around islands in the South China Sea as a message to countries such as China, Taiwan, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Many of these nations have laid claim to islands in the South China Sea, some of which are no more than tiny strips of sand and reef. The last time the U.S. Navy sailed near Triton Island was in January 2016, when the USS Curtis Wilbur came within 12 miles of its shores. The Pentagon did not notify any of the islands claimants before that operation.

Capt. Charlie Brown, a spokesman for the U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet, did not confirm the Sunday operation but said in an emailed statement that the Navy routinely conducts FONOPs, and that the operations are not about any one country, nor are they about making political statements.

U.S. forces operate in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region on a daily basis, including in the South China Sea, Brown said. All operations are conducted in accordance with international law and demonstrate that the United States will fly, sail, and operate wherever international law allows. That is true in the South China Sea as in other places around the globe.

In the Paracels and Spratlys, China has built up a number of small islands into fully functional military facilities complete with airfields and antiaircraft defenses. The White House, in both the Obama and Trump administrations, has seen the militarization of the South China Sea as a threat to stability in the resource-rich region, where ships from numerous countries have long fished.

U.S.-China relations appeared to be on an upswing after Trump said he and Xi had enjoyed great chemistry in Florida, and expressed confidence in Chinas efforts to apply pressure on North Korea to end its nuclear and missile defense program.

But officials say frustration has grown in the White House with Chinas reluctance to tighten the screws on North Korea as much as Washington would have liked.

The Stethem, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, is based in Japan.

Read more:

Taiwan arms sale, NKorea sanctions outrage Beijing in test of U.S.-China ties under Trump

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China accuses US of 'serious provocation' as warship sails near disputed island - Washington Post

Lopud

An hours ferry ride from Dubrovnik, Lopud is a world away from the citys bustle. Panoramic views take in mountains and deep-blue waters, from the surrounding Elaphiti archipelago to the Croatian mainland beyond. Just 220 year-round residents share this car-free island, which measures less than 5 sq km. A sweep of seafront promenade with waterside restaurants, petite boutiques and ice-cream shops traces Lopuds northern bay. A 15-minute hike south over the hills sits unj Bay, a splendid and rare arc of silky sand that shelves gradually into the surf. The island truly comes into its own in the early evening, once the last daytrippers have set sail for the mainland. Where to stay: built in the 1960s, Lafodia Sea Resort resembles a futuristic cruise ship (doubles from 80 a night B&B, lafodiahotel.com)

Sveti Nikola is Croatias northernmost island. Blanketed in pine forests and ringed by 2km of crystal-clear coastline, the petite island is uninhabited except for a hotel resort, built in 2015. But anyone can visit for the day on the free hourly shuttle boat from Pore Old Town. A fragrant path loops around the island, while Blue Flag beaches include the pebble swoosh of Oliva. As the waters are a protected marine park, snorkelling is excellent; dolphins are regulars in July and August. The island was once privately owned by a Venetian trading family, who built the elegant castle and restored the 14th-century lighthouse (Croatias oldest), which hotel guests can tour every Sunday morning. Where to stay: Valamar Hotel Isabella (doubles from 239 a night half-board, valamar.com)

The Brijuini Islands were once the summer retreat of former Yugoslav president Tito. After his death, the archipelago was designated a national park. Its popular with daytrippers who ferry across to its largest isle, Veliki Brijun (a 20-minute journey from the mainland town of Faana). However, with no permanent residents, the place becomes a peaceful haven once the last ferry leaves. The lush island is cloaked in rolling fields and thick forests, and ringed by secluded coves. Theres plenty more to explore too, including dinosaur footprints, Roman ruins, a botanical garden, an ornithological park, an 18-hole golf course built a century ago and a safari park. The latter is home to a menagerie of exotic animals gifted to Tito by socialist world leaders, including elephant Lanka, one of a pair presented by Indira Ghandi. Where to stay: waterfront Hotel Neptun-Istra (rooms from 61 B&B in Neptun, and from 88 in Istra, including ferry transfers, np-brijuni.hr)

A three-hour catamaran ride from the northern port of Rijeka, Susak is unique in Croatia in that it is almost entirely sandy. A mere 3km by 1.5km, the island has no roads, just silky soft trails that crisscross the island, often trimmed by sweet-smelling shrubs. In fact, Susaks name comes from the Greek for oregano: keep an eye out for the herb, which grows wild here. It has a population of less than 150, yet the island has become an unlikely outpost of international art, hosting the Susak Expo. This quirky biennial was launched in 2006 with the idea of creating contemporary art where almost no one would see it. Its next edition will take place in summer 2018. Where to stay: family-friendly Susak 272 (from 103 a night B&B, airbnb.com) sits directly opposite a sandy beach on the islands eastern bay. The house has eclectic furnishings and a sun-dappled patio and vegetable garden

Silba takes R&R seriously. Its not just car-free and hotel-free but, during July and August, to preserve the local tranquillity, its central village is also bike-free. Ruled by the Republic of Venice until the mid-19th century, this serene little speck sits an hour-and-a-halfs catamaran ride from Zadar. Life hums along in a low gear. Island activities include scaling Toreta, the panoramic viewing tower. Spend a morning skirting the northern or eastern shores peaceful bays on foot, seeking that perfect sunbathing and snorkelling spot. For those who cant resist breaking into a sweat, there are beach volleyball courts on Sotorice, Silbas largest stretch of sand. Where to stay: a two-bedroom, whitewashed, solar-powered house (from 134 a night, minimum four-night stay, on airbnb.com), just 30 metres from the sea in Paprenica Bay

Some 89 tiny islands make up the Kornati archipelago, a national park just south of Zadar. Covered by sage, olive and fig trees, main island Kornats land is strictly protected, as are its waters. Sailors are charged a steep fee to visit (from 32 a day, depending on the size of the boat); there are just nine zones where organised scuba diving is permitted. But for visitors seeking sun, sea and silence, plus hiking trails and knockout snorkelling, there are few better getaways. In keeping with its isolated aura, Kornat boasts just a handful of private homes available to rent. Where to stay: three-bedroom Kua Antonia (from 130 a night for a maximum party of six, kornati-kravljacica.com) is steps from the sea. The house has a small boat (30 a day) and a barbecue. Return transfer from the mainland 200 per party

olta may be visible from Splits seafront promenade, but while the latter features on pretty much every tourists Croatia hit list, travellers to olta are few and far between. Their loss. Hop aboard the half-hour catamaran, then make a beeline for the pretty town of Maslinica. On the islands western tip, this former fishing village is trimmed by a pine forest, crowned by an 18th-century castle-turned-luxury-hotel, and peeks out over an archipelago of seven islets. Foodie visitors are advised to leave space in their suitcases: the farms scattered across olta press their own extra virgin Levantinka olive oil, harvest grapes for the local Dobrii wine, or sell wildflower honey. Where to stay: seafront Villa Berg has two spacious apartments (from 70 a night, villaberg.eu), each with private balconies and uninterrupted Adriatic views

Hvar is Croatias hippest island, frequented by celebs from George Clooney to Beyonc. But a five-minute hop across the bay, sleepy Sveti Klement is a world apart. In 1906, botanist Eugen Meneghello transformed this island into his own secret garden, planting rosemary, lavender and lilies. Soon afterwards, he opened a guesthouse, today a collection of bungalows owned and managed by his great-grandchildren. Pretty much uninhabited from October through to early March, when this tourist accommodation shuts up shop, Sveti Klement remains both car-free and utterly idyllic. Dine on fresh seafood risotto or sea bass at Totos beach restaurant. Alternatively, take your pick of the islands 20 or so tiny coves, bearing in mind that most are clothing optional. Where to stay: Palmiana Meneghello Resort has colourful bungalows and villas (from 120 a night for two B&B, palmizana.com), all with private terraces set among the gardens. Accommodation centres around an al fresco restaurant with its own small gallery, featuring local artists

Just south of the remote Dalmatian island of Vis floats Bievo. Not only is it tiny (were talking less than 6 sq km), its the furthest inhabited island from the Croatian mainland. Its biggest claim to fame is Modra pilja, or the Blue Cave, accessible solely by boat via a small sea entrance. Visit the cave during late morning for an ethereal explosion of silver and cobalt, as rays of sunshine bounce off its limestone interior. Then go and explore: isolated coves ring Bievo. The topaz sea is home to colonies of dolphins and sea turtles. Or scramble around the islands monastic ruins, which date from the 11th century. Where to stay: there are just a few properties available to rent on Bievo. Pick of the bunch is this neat, four-person studio (double bed plus pull-out couch, from 55 a night, direct-croatia.com) with sea views and within easy walking distance of the Blue Cave

Perched off Korulas western shoreline, Proizd is entirely uninhabited, which makes it an ideal island for escaping Croatias summer crowds. Hop on the half-hour boat ride from Korulas port of Vela Luka. Sun-dappled hiking trails, trimmed by perfumed maquis, crisscross the island. Picnic on Proizds white pebbly beaches, the most popular of which (although hardly crowded) is the northern beach of Bili Boci. Snorkel above urchins and octopus. Round off a visit with a bottle of chilled Oujsko beer at Proizds solitary restaurant (open summertime only), which sits in the islands south side, near the petite port. Where to stay: theres nowhere to stay on Proizd. Book a room at the friendly Hotel Korkyra (doubles from 85 B&B, hotel-korkyra.com) on Vela Lukas harbour. Staff can offer inside tips on Proizd, as the hotel also manages the island restaurant

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10 of the best small islands in Croatia - The Guardian

Denizens of the Faroe Islandslocated in the northeast Atlantic Oceanhave rounded up and killed dozens of whales on abeach in a centuries-old hunt that animal rights groups call a barbaric practice.

The Faroese Government say some 450 pilot whales have been killed this year, and 295 were killed during hunts known as Grindadrap. About 500 were killed in 2015, the government said. Grindadrap can happen several times per yeardepending on where the whales are.

Pilot whales are not an endangered species.

A spokesman for the Faroe Islands government told Fox News that whale hunting is sustainable and lawful.

There is no doubt that whale hunts in the Faroe Islands are dramatic and result in a lot of blood in the water, he told the news outlet. They are, nevertheless, well organised and fully regulated.

(Boycott Denmark)

Images of the huntwhich turn the sea red with bloodgo viral every year, with a chorus of condemnation from animal welfare groups.

A spokesperson said that the way the whales are killed is humane, as many hunters use a special spinal lance that kills the whales within seconds.

Normally, the entire pod of whales is killed in less than fifteen minutes, the spokesman said. A rounded blowhole hook is used to haul the whales further up onto the shore.

The government says the hunting technique dates back to 1584. Whales are herded toward the shore where theyre beached and then subsequently killed.

Whaling is a natural part of Faroese life and pilot whale meat and blubber are a cherished supplement to households across the islands, a governmentspokesman told The Sun.

Militant animal rights group Sea Shepherd has pilloried the Faroese for the practice over the years.

(Sea Shepherd)

You cant explain to someone what a pod of dolphins looks like when theyre in absolute sheer panic, an activist told The Dodo. Theyre swimming in each others blood. You see babies who dont want to leave their mothers bodies. They are so exhausted after being driven that some of them just drop on their sides. Some of them die of sheer exhaustion.

Is it exactly these kinds of atrocities that authorities in Denmark and the Faroe Islands are attempting to cover-up, by refusing Sea Shepherd crews entry to the archipelago, said Sea Shepherd Operation Bloody Fjords Campaign Leader, Geert Vons, in a statement last year. And this is exactly the reason why we continue to push the increasing global momentum to end this bloody and brutal practice.

As The Dodo reported, entire families of whales and dolphins are killed.

Earlier this year, Denmarks famed Little Mermaid statue was vandalized, and it was painted it blood red. They wrote: Denmark defend the whales of Faroe Islands. While the Faroe Islands are part of Denmark, theyre not part of the European Union.

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Bloody Photos Show Mass Slaughter of Whales in the Faroe Islands - The Epoch Times

LOVE Islands Gabby runs away devastated in tonights episode after seeing a postcard of boyfriend Marcel in bed with one of the new girls.

While the boys are over at secret villa Casa Amor enjoying a party with the five new recruits, the girls receive a postcard featuring a picture of a picture of Kem and Chyna kissing, and Marcel, Jonny and Chris in bed with other girls.

ITV Picture Desk

ITV Picture Desk

Montana runs into the garden with the postcard and repeatedly shouts, Not good! as the girls gather around to see the picture.

Gabby who is now officially Marcels girlfriend found the sight of him in bed with someone else too much and immediately runs upstairs to get away from the images.

The other girls try to comfort and reassure her that they were probably just talking, but Gabby is still upset and wonders whether to dump him after they learn that there will be a recoupling tonight.

The latest recoupling will see half the contestants go home, as the girls must choose whether to stick with their current partners or go with one of the new boys.

In a stick or twist situation the islanders will be safe if they both recouple, however face being dumped in one partner chooses to go with someone else and the other doesnt - meaning half the island could go.

As well as Marcel, Kem and Chriss places are also in jeopardy as Olivia and Amber consider whether or not to recouple with them after seeing the incriminating postcard.

ITV Picture Desk

ITV Picture Desk

ITV Picture Desk

ITV Picture Desk

Olivia reveals she cant risk picking Chris as it could result in her being dumped from the island if he moves on to someone else, while Amber also says she has the same situation with Kem.

Olivia said: If I hadnt see that postcard, I would have picked Chris all day long. I just have to go with what my gut is telling me but now Ive seen photographic evidence of him in bed with another girl.

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

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Love Island's Gabby considers dumping Marcel after being left devastated at seeing a picture of him in bed with ... - The Sun

ANABELA REA

Last updated14:41, July 3 2017

ISTOCK

Fancy this being your new normal? Time to embrace island life. Here's four homes you'll love (and can afford).

If you're sick of daydreaming at your desk, relocation may just be the fix.

Nearly endless summers are a reality in some areas of the planet, and there are a few locations where good weather and great architecture collide.

Thanks to unfortunate declines in certain European economies during the last decade, there's property available at all prices.

Here arefour beautiful homes in the sunshine to remind you that the world is your oyster.

READ MORE * Forget Auckland, buy a chateau * A remote South Island home * A slower pace on Waiheke

GREKODOM.COM

Leave winter behind forever by shifting to a home in the sunshine, like this small but perfectly formed one bedroom maisonette in Crete.

MAISONETTE IN CRETE

With the help of your Kiwisaver and just a few years of saving, even a recent 'yo-pro' could be the proud (and sun-kissed) new owner of a house on the Greek island of Crete.

GREKODOM.COM

Cheap and cheerful, this is could be yours on the Greek island of Crete.

This 65 square metre maisonette could be yours for78,000 or $121,410.

There's just one bedroom but the it's a brand new build and the swimming pool is right outside your door.

ON THE WATER IN MALLORCA

GREKODOM.COM

Shift to this maisonette in Crete and you can walk to the water if you tire of the pool.

For 265,000 or $412,644, the next rung up the ladder is a two bedroom apartment in Port Adriano, on the Spanish island of Mallorca.

Sitting on the first line in the harbour, you could spend the day watching the super yachts of the rich and famous roll in while nibbling on garlic prawns.

Or, seeing as you're right in the city, it's the ideal location for hitting the town (and then crawling home) with your friends.

KYERO.COM

"Look it's Beyonce," is just one thing you might get the chance to say when celebrity spotting from your balcony in Port Adriano, Mallorca.

GARDEN SURROUND IN ANDROS

This two bedroom plus studio home on the Greek island of Andros looks freshly decked out in the Mediterranean staple colour scheme of white and blue.

It's a fifteen minute drive to the nearest beach in Batsi, but with a beautiful garden like that and outdoor portico, staying at home looks like a pretty good idea too.

KYERO.COM

You could watch the world go by from the comfort of your bedroom in Mallorca.

THE EMPTY NEST ESCAPE

Surrounded by plants and the sea, this home in Puerto del Carmen in the Canary Islands is kitted out in contemporary Spanish style and boasts seven bedrooms.

Contemplate how much you (kind of?) miss the kids while swimming in the courtyard pool. There's plenty of room them to come and stay during the New Zealand winter.

KYERO.COM

Right on the water in Port Adriano, this island home could be affordable to a working couple.

This182 sqm home with jacuzzi and games roomis 658,357or $1,024,923.

APLACEINTHESUN.COM

This three bedroom home in Andros in the Aegean islands of Greece is pretty as a picture.

APLACEINTHESUN.COM

This rustic portico on the island of Andros looks like an ideal place to relax.

APLACEINTHESUN.COM

A calm palette of blue and white decorates this home on the island of Andros.

APLACEINTHESUN.COM

As far as island homes go, this modern build in the Canary Islands is stunning.

APLACEINTHESUN.COM

Low maintenance and totally cool, this Canary Islands home would be an ideal lifestyle for a couple with adult children.

APLACEINTHESUN.COM

It's a straight view to pool in this modern home in Puerto del Carmen, Canary Islands.

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Leave winter behind forever by shifting to a home in the sunshine.

-Homed

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Five island homes to escape to now - Stuff.co.nz

Dom fell for Jess in the villa (Picture: ITV)

Love Island dumpee Dom says he wasnt that surprised to hear about Jess and Mike.

Jess and Mike were coupled up since the second day when Jess entered the villa.

Jess was dumped from the island by Jonny, Kem, Marcel and Sam who had to pick between Jess, Liv and Chloe.

Mike was pretty upset to find out from Marcel and Gabby that Jess had been getting closer to Mike outside of the villa, but since leaving he said that he wasnt that surprised to hear she had moved on.

Speaking about the moment he found out, he said: I dont think theres a way to describe it. Being stuck in the villa you cant really talk to the person. Am I shocked? Yes and no. Im not surprised that another guy would crack on to her, but at the same time I didnt believe it.

I want to speak to both of them, but Jess if my priority and once Ive spoken to her then Ill probably contact Mike myself and meet up with him at some point.

Dom also said he was happy to see Montana coupled up with someone new.

He said: Im buzzing for Montana. It was a choice that I had to make, either couple up with some random girl and risk losing Montana whos been there since day one, or decide to stick and then stand aside so she can find someone new.

Love Island continues Monday at 9pm on ITV.

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MORE: Love Islands Craig Lawson tells his kids hes on the show in heartbreaking clip posted by his mum

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Love Island's Dom says he wasn't that shocked about Jess and Mike ... - Metro

A Solomon Islands police officer who was shot twice during the country's crisis says he's confident local police now have the training and respect to take over from foreign security forces.

After 14 years, the international rescue operation, known as RAMSI, has finished - meaning local police are once again taking charge of crime-fighting operations.

Back in 2003, corruption within the Solomon Islands police force was one of the biggest contributors to a complete breakdown of law and order.

While the local police force is now considered more professional that it once was, they still face big challenges in terms of tackling crime, with soaring rates of domestic violence and youth crime.

Up to 68 percent of women aged between 15 and 49 report routine abuse at the hands of their partners. It's a statistic New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett says is "horrific", and she says it shows that the Solomon Islands is in need of a culture change.

Supt Solomon Sisima told Newshub a lot has changed in 14 years, and local police are now more professional than ever.

"We are different, we are more up-front. Community is working closely with us. They are beginning to get trust - continually building trust with us, and we are continuing to build trust with the community."

Supt Sisima clearly remembers the terror from the inter-tribal fighting which began in 1998.He was trying to locate and rescue an Australian citizen during the height of the tensions when he was shot by rebels from the Guadalcanal Liberation Army.

"I was shot twice on my shoulder here, and my right shoulder is still broken.

"I was shot in an ambush - my vehicle was torn apart by bullets and I was just lucky that I escaped."

The effects of the conflict are still being felt today, especially among the country's youth.

During the crisis, schools were shut down depriving thousands of children from getting an education. Even now, many young people are not in school and 60 percent are unemployed.

"We have a lot of problems with the youth",says Andrew Mua, Honiara City Mayor. "With the unemployment, the rate so high.We have gangs within the cities - they brought in a lot of drugs, stealing."

Improving the plight of children has been a key focus for New Zealand's aid programme. About $100 million has been spent on improving education.

During her visit, Ms Bennett announced $6 million would be donated to help revamp a multi-purpose sports hall in the capital Honiara. She says it's hoped the new facility will help engage young minds and steer them away from crime.

She also attended a special ceremony at the country's stadium to mark the official end of the RAMSI intervention. Plauqes were presented to pacific leaders, acknowledging their country's participation in the mission.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare thanked the taxpayers of Australia and New Zealand, and also apologised for the billions of dollars spent over 14 years to help restore peace and stability in the country.

"We thank you from the bottom of our hearts - this is a gesture we will not forget."

Sandra Maezama, who was watching the closing ceremony, said while it was time for the Solomon Islands to take charge of its own future, most felt uneasy about the international intervention coming to an end.

"We'll feel empty - maybe some of us will feel insecure, but if the local police are doing their job thenwe are okay."

While the official RAMSI programme is over, eight New Zealand police officers will remain in the country to provide continued guidance to local police.

Insp Paris Razos will lead the new Solomon Islands support programme. He told Newshub the small team will stay in the country for another four years.

"The focus of the new programme will be to support the Royal Solomon Islands police force to embed and to enhance their crime prevention strategy."

Insp Razos says the presence of New Zealand police will ensure the quality and reliability of policing is of a standard the Solomon Islands can be proud of.

Newshub.

Continued here:

Solomon Islands police say they're ready to take over - Newshub

A British woman has died in the Canary Islands after she was found with multiple injuries at her home (Picture: Getty)

A British woman has died in the Canary Islands after she was found with multiple injuries at her home.

The woman, who has only been identified as a 47-year-old woman named Donna C, lived in an apartment block in Gran Canaria with her partner, who is also British.

An 84-year-old man, believed to be her partner, was arrested in connection with her death after it was reported she had received several blows during the suspected domestic violence incident.

Police were called to the scene immediately and found a British man sitting on the settee watching TV whilst the woman was found bleeding in the bath, according to Spanish newspaper La Provincia.

The man reportedly resisted arrest and assaulted at least one police officer in the process.

The victim was rushed to a health centre in Arguinegun and then on to the University Hospital of Gran Canaria where doctors were unable to save her life when she went into cardiac arrest.

According to reports, there were no previous allegations or background of violence between the couple in Spain.

The man has now been placed in the hands of the courts in SanBartolom de Tirajana and is expected to make an appearance either today or tomorrow.

Depending on the outcome of the autopsy, which is due to be carried out, he could be charged with gender violence or homicide as well as resisting arrest.

MORE: Government watching Kensington council closely after calls for it to be taken over

MORE: Teen raped by friend while she slept just days after grandmothers funeral

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British woman dies in Canary Islands after being found with severe injuries at her home - Metro

Craig Lawson has appeared in a clip telling his kids of his whereabouts (Picture: ITV/Facebook)

Craig Lawsons mum has shared a clip online of the Love Island contestant telling his kids hes arrived at the ITV2 villa.

The contestant was previously branded an absolute joke by his ex-fiancee Sian Dilley, claiming he didnt tell his children that he was heading into the ITV2 dating show.

While Craigs sister has since hit back at the claims saying hes an amazing father, now his mother has shared a clip seemingly telling his kids of his whereabouts.

Sue Bird posted the heartbreaking footage on Facebook, with the caption: Daddy we really love the video we are so proud of you Dya know what I mean xx.

In the video, Craig says: Alright boys. If youre watching this then obviously youve seen Im on Love Island now.

I wanted to tell you before but I couldnt, everything had to be kept really quiet. I just want you to know that I really wanted to tell you.

I love you. Im doing this for us so that we have a better future. I hope youre proud of me.

I hope you see it laugh, see me having fun and I hope you enjoy it and Ill see you when I get back. Love you.

Craigs ex previously stated: The bloke is an absolute joke. Hes left 3 children behind all who were excited at the thought of spending time with their daddy this weekend and he didnt even have the decency to tell them what he was doing and that he wont be seeing them.

He is dead to me and he is dead to my son. He has not even had the decency to contact me regarding this and regarding arrangements for my son.

Love Island continues on ITV2 at 9pm.

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Love Island's Craig Lawson tells his kids he's on the show in heartbreaking clip posted by his mum - Metro

Environment According to tourism officials, the Caribbean tourism industry faces significant future threats related to both competitiveness and climate change impacts.

CTO Secretary-General Hugh Riley (left) and CDB President Dr. Warren Smith share a light moment during the signing of a partnership agreement at CDB headquarters. Credit: Desmond Brown/IPS

Bridgetown, Barbados:The tourism industry is the key economic driver and largest provider of jobs in the Caribbean after the public sector. Caribbean tourism broke new ground in 2016, surpassing 29 million arrivals for the first time and once again growing faster than the global average.

Visitor expenditures also hit a new high, growing by an estimated 3.5% to reach35.5 billion dollars. And the the outlook for 2017 remains rosy, with expected increases of 2.5 and 3.5% in long-stay arrivals and between 1.5% and 2.5% in cruise passenger arrivals.

But tourism officials say Caribbean islands are significantly affected by drastic changes in weather conditions and they fear climate change could have a devastating impact on the industry.

They note that the Caribbean tourism sector faces significant future threats related to both competitiveness and climate change impacts. And for a region so heavily dependent on coastal- and marine-related tourism attractions, adaptation and resilience are critical issues facing Caribbean tourism.

The impact of more severe hurricanes and the destruction of our most valued tourism assets, our beaches and coral reefs, and the damage to our infrastructure threaten to reverse the developmental gains that we have made, Dominican Senator Francine Baron said.

Our efforts to attain the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations cannot be achieved without dealing with the causes of climate change.

Baron, who serves as Dominicas Minister of Foreign Affairs, made the comments as she addressed a forum on the issue of climate change at the general assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS) held in Mexico recently.

In the face of these threats, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), the Caribbeans tourism development agency, has received a much-needed boost with a 460,000-euro grant from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) to implement a project to increase the Caribbean tourism sectors resilience to natural hazards and climate related risks.

Global climate change and its impacts, including the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events, pose a significant risk to the Caribbean region and threaten the sustainability of Caribbean tourism, the CTOs Secretary General Hugh Riley said.

The CTO is pleased to have the support of the CDB to implement this project which will contribute to enhancing the resiliency, sustainability and competitiveness of the regions tourism sector. Mainstreaming climate change adaptation (CCA) and disaster risk management (DRM) strategies in tourism development and planning is our duty to our member countries.

The CDB/CTO partnership was formalized at a signing ceremony held on June 22 at CDBs headquarters in Barbados.

Speaking at the event, CDB President Dr. Warren Smith noted that the tourism sector makes an enormous contribution to the regions socioeconomic development.

Tourism generates high levels of employment, foreign direct investment and foreign exchange for our borrowing member countries and, given its multi-sectoral nature, it is a very effective tool for promoting sustainable development and poverty reduction, Dr. Smith said.

However, maintaining this critical role calls for adequate safeguards to be erected against the enormous threats that climate change and natural hazards pose to the sustainability of our region.

Funding is being provided under the African Caribbean Pacific-European Union-Caribbean Development Bank-Natural Disaster Risk Management in CARIFORUM Countries programme, which aims to reduce vulnerability to long-term impacts of natural hazards, including the potential impacts of climate change, thereby achieving national and regional sustainable development and poverty reduction goals in those countries.

During the 19-month project implementation period, the CTO will support the regions tourism entities with policy formulation, the promotion of best practices in disaster risk management and climate change adaptation, and the development of tools to enhance the tourism sectors knowledge and awareness of disaster risk reduction strategies and the potential impacts of climate variability and climate change (CVC).

A training component will also be included to strengthen the ability of public and private sector tourism stakeholders to undertake adequate mitigation and adaptation actions to CVC. The CTO secretariat will also benefit from institutional strengthening to help provide technical assistance and ongoing support for tourism-related climate services.

The project is in keeping with 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, which has been designated by the United Nations General Assembly.

At the CDBs Annual Board of Directors meeting held in Turks and Caicos Islands last month, Governors noted the acute environmental vulnerability of the Region and urged CDB to continue to play an important role in helping its Borrowing Member Countries (BMCs) build resilience.

Smith said CDBs commitment to this role was evidenced during the meeting, at which CDB signed an agreement with the European Investment Bank (EIB) for the second Climate Action Line of Credit (CALC).

This will facilitate increased climate proofing of critical infrastructure in the Caribbean. The Line of Credit for Euro 100 million is the largest single loan made by EIB in our region. We are very encouraged by the strong statement of confidence in CDB that this line represents, he said.

Eligible investments under the Climate Action Framework Loan II include climate change mitigation, adaptation and resilience projects in renewable energy, energy efficiency, road transport, water infrastructure and community-level physical and social infrastructurethat reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve resilience to the impacts of climate change.

We are delighted to be signing this new climate action loan with CDB, which is the result of a fruitful partnership that lasts for almost four decades, to support new projects in the Caribbean, said Pim Van Ballekom, EIB Vice President.

This partnership is currently supporting CDBs efforts to mainstream climate action to help its borrowing member countries (BMCs), which are all considered Small Island Developing States, to adequately tackle risks related to climate change. Caribbean countries face economic and social challenges which must be addressed whilst ensuring resilience to climate change, he added.

To date, CDB has committed the total resources under the ongoing Climate Action Line of Credit (50 million euro), for nine projects. This co-financing is associated with total project financing of approximately 191 million dollars (from CDB loans/grants, EIB CALC, counterpart and other sources of financing).

(IPS)

Read the rest here:

The Caribbean Islands Are Looking to Climate-Proof Their Tourism Industry - The Wire

FaroeIslanders have turned the sea red after slaughtering hundreds ofwhalesas part of a centuries-old hunt, which has been harshly criticized by animal rights groups.

The hunts, or drives date back to the late 16th century. Authorities on the islands allow islanders to drive herds of pilot whales into shallow waters, where they are killed using a spinal lance that is inserted through the animals neck to break its spinal cord.

The grisly image shows a hunt on June 16.

'UNPRECEDENTED' ORCA HUNTING FRENZY CAPTURED ON FILM

The first hunt of this year was on May 21, according to ocean conservation group Sea Shepherd, which claims that 84 pilot whales were killed in the hunt. Hundreds more whales have died in subsequent hunts according to Sea Shepherd, which describes the drives as incredibly cruel.

File photo - a Faroe Islands whale hunt on July 2015. (Photo: Sea Shepherd/Mayk Wendt)

The Faroe Islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean between Iceland and Norway.

According to the Faroese Government, approximately 450 pilot whales have been killed in the Faroe Islands so far this year. Some 295 pilot whales were killed during hunts, which are known as Grindadrap in the local language, last year, according to official statistics. Some 501 were killed in 2015, according to official statistics.

A spokesman for the Faroe Islands government told Fox News that whaling in the islands is sustainable and conducted in accordance with international law. There is no doubt that whale hunts in the Faroe Islands are dramatic and result in a lot of blood in the water, he explained, via email. They are, nevertheless, well organised and fully regulated.

HUGE SEAL BATTLES OCTOPUS IN INCREDIBLE FIGHT TO THE DEATH

The Little Mermaid statue is seen painted in red in what local authorities say is an act of vandalism, in Copenhagen, Denmark May 30, 2017. (Ida Marie Odgaard/Scanpix Denmark/via REUTERS)

The spinal lance used to kill the whales was designed by a Faroese veterinarian and ensures that the mammals lose consciousness and die within a few seconds. Normally, the entire pod of whales is killed in less than fifteen minutes, the spokesman said. Arounded blowhole hook is used to haul the whales further up onto the shore.

The government says that the pilot whale population in the eastern North Atlantic is approximately 778,000, of which around 100,000 are around the Faroes. The Faroese catch around 800 whales a year on average, it says. The long-term annual average catch of pilot whales in the Faroe Islands represents less than 1 percent of the total eastern North Atlantic whale population, according to the spokesman for the Faroe Islands government. It has long since been internationally recognised that pilot whale catches in the Faroe Islands are fully sustainable, he said.

The hunts can happen at any time of the year and are noncommercial - meat and blubber from each drive is shared among the local community. The whales are not an endangered species.

KILLER WHALES ARE TORMENTING ALASKAN FISHERMEN

The islands are a self-governing group of islands that is part of Denmark, but are not part of the European Union, where whaling is banned.

Last month officials in the Danish capital Copenhagen had to hose down the citys famous Little Mermaid statue after it was found doused with red paint in an apparent protest at the Faroe Islands whale hunts. On the ground in front of the statue was written in red, in English, "Denmark defend the whales of the Faroe Islands."

Activists recently urged the European Union to take action against Denmark over the Faroe Islands whale hunt.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.

Follow James Rogers on Twitter @jamesjrogers

Excerpt from:

Gruesome pic shows mass slaughter of whales in Faroe Islands ... - Fox News

A new land mass has appeared off the coast of North Carolina within the mysterious Bermuda Triangle. Theisland was observed to be a small spot of sand in April but has since expanded to at least a mile long and as wide as a football field, according to a Wednesday CNN report.

Nicknamed Shelly Islandbecause of the wide variety of seashells dotting the sandbanks, the land mass has already become a popular attraction to folks visiting the Outer Banks Cape Hatteras National Seashore,after a man vacationing in the area posted a birds'-eye-view photo of the island on social media.

But beware, tourists: The journey from Cape Hatteras to Shelly Island is a said to be dangerous, and for good reason.

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For starters, the waters surrounding the new island are deep and the current is intense, capable of pulling under even the strongest of swimmers, Dave Hallac, superintendent of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, told CNN Wednesday.

"Travel to the sandbar is best accomplished by experienced kayakers or paddleboarders that are using appropriate floatation and mindful of the strong currents in the area, Hallac said.

The crescent-shaped island is surrounded by the Labrador Current and warm Gulf Stream waters that typically wash over sandbanks that appear in the area. In most cases, isles that emerge in the region end up disappearing nearly as quickly as they surface.

Also worrisome: Shelly Island is in an area of the Bermuda Triangle referred to as the Graveyard of the Atlantic, due to the number of shipwrecks.

Some 300 wrecks have been identified in the area waters, including the205-foot Sunk, an English ship that was sailing North Carolina waters in 1877 when it was mysteriously pulled to the bottom of the ocean. The ancient ship is still easily visible, and it has attracted tourists to North Carolina over the years.

Albeit sprinkled with beautiful seashells, the islands shoreline is riddled with whale bones wreckage from ships. The waters surrounding Shelly Island are known for tiger sharks and oceanic manta rays, which locals described to National Geographic as being the size of car hoods.

Despite Shelly Island's allure, Hallacwarned it most likely won't be around for long.

"It's unusually large compared to what we've been seeing in recent decades," he said in a separate interview with National Geographic,"But if you put this in geological perspective, it's nothing really."

Excerpt from:

How Are Islands Formed? New Land Mass Appears in Mysterious Bermuda Triangle - Newsweek

Trump has sought China's help in reining in North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, and tension between Washington and Beijing over military installations in the South China Sea could complicate those efforts.

China has built four new missile shelters on Fiery Cross Reef to go with the eight already on the artificial island, AMTI said. Mischief and Subi each have eight shelters, the think tank said in a previous report.

In February, Reuters reported that China had nearly finished building structures to house long-range surface-to-air missiles on the three islands.

On Mischief Reef, a very large antennae array is being installed that presumably boosts Beijing's ability to monitor the surroundings, the think tank said, adding that the installation should be of concern to the Philippines due to its proximity to an area claimed by Manila.

A large dome recently was installed on Fiery Cross and another is under construction, indicating a sizeable communications or radar system, AMTI said.

Two more domes are being built at Mischief Reef, it said.

A smaller dome has been installed near the missile shelters on Mischief, "indicating that it could be connected to radars for any missile systems that might be housed there," AMTI said.

"Beijing can now deploy military assets, including combat aircraft and mobile missile launchers, to the Spratly Islands at any time," it said.

See the rest here:

China builds new military facilities on South China Sea islands: think tank - CNBC

Kari Thompson started her floor routine expecting to hear the music.

At first, no one was sure if Thompson had started before the music cued her, but as the surrounding noise died down, the tune could be heard playing softly. Technical difficulties resulted in the volume being turned down, and Thompson looked a little distracted as she leaped out into the middle of the floor.

Then she started playing the tune in her head, and it all came back to her. The rest of her routine was nearly flawless.

It kind of bothered me because it was kind of like a different music to it, and there were spots where I couldnt hear it, Kari said. I just kept my tempo going and kept my feet. My routine, I just said it in my head.

When it was over, she gracefully bowed and pranced off the floor to look at the scoreboard. She scored a 9.3 and placed second all-around for the Level 1 Juniors on Friday at the 2017 YMCA Gymnastics National Championship & Festival at the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center on Hutchinson Island.

Kari took home five of the 40 medals given to the Islands Family YMCA Levels 1 and 2 girls, taking first place in the vault with a score of 9.55 and on the balance beam with a score of 9.475, giving her a total score of 37.3.

The Islands girls won eight first-place event medals, and three gymnasts came away with top overall honors in their age divisions. Carson Mosley took first place in the Level 1 senior age division, totaling a 37.2, which included a 9.5 on the floor. Charlotte Boatright won the Level 2 seniors with a total of 37.525, winning first in the bars (9.5) and beam (9.6), and Kylee Jiran posted the top overall score for all girls across Levels 1, 2 and 3 with a stunning 38.15. She placed first on the bars with a 9.6 and put an exclamation point on her day with a personal-best 9.8 on the beam.

I just put my mind to it, and I said I could do it, and I did it, said Kylee, who also scored a 9.25 on the vault and a 9.5 on the floor. (The vault) is not really my best event, and I hadnt had lots of practice. I didnt know how I was going to do.

Islands head coach Jill Conway wasnt really sure how her gymnasts were going to do on Friday, either. Islands had 12 girls between the ages of 6-11 compete at levels 1 and 2, which were limited to one day of competition for the three-day event. Levels 3 and above will compete today and Sunday.

I was not expecting that, Conway said about her girls winning 40 medals. and to tell you the truth, it brought me to tears when I saw how the girls did and how they stuck all their routines.

Conway added that her gymnasts practiced nine hours a week for the competition, which is in Savannah for the fifth time and has about 2,000 gymnasts from 21 states competing.

This is their hometown, Conway said. This is the host team, and as the host team, youre expected to perform well.

It took nearly three hours for the Islands girls to work their way through four events, the last of which was the beam. Conway said she was proud of the way her girls kept their composure throughout and gave their best performances on the beam, which as a team isnt their best event.

Last event, they were doing so well, and all they had to do was hit beam, she said. Beam is probably the hardest event because theres the pressure of sticking your skills. I tell the girls every day that if you dont hit beam, then you dont hit your all-around.

Islands also had girls who competed at Level 3 earlier in the day and boys who competed in levels 4, 5 and 6. Lily Schainholtz finished second overall in the Level 3 senior division with a total of 37.1.

For the boys, Myles Townsend took first overall with a 56.5 total in Level 4 seniors, including a first-place medal for the floor, where he scored a 10. Jacob Madeiros scored a 52 and took first-place overall for Level 6, Toby Madeiros placed second overall for Level 5 (51.0), and Barrett Whitehurst finished third overall at the All Level (49.2).

I was very pleased with everything they had, said Islands boys coach Adrian Sims, who also spent Friday helping to organize the event. This was a meet I couldnt personally coach them in, but they showed up and performed well.

The boys wont compete over the weekend, either. Competition will continue today with sessions beginning a 9 a.m., noon and 3 p.m., and a 9 a.m. session will be held Sunday.

The Liberty County/Armed Services YMCA also had two girls competing at Level 1. Sophia Hool took third place in the child division with a 35.15 total.

More here:

Islands YMCA brings home over 50 medals at nationals - Savannah Morning News

When the waters of Lake Ontario began to rise around Toronto Islands in May, Julian Ganton wasnt worried.

At first, I was very hopeful, because every season the water does go up and down. Its the natural cycle, he said.

But once it started flooding almost close to the road, the hope starts to fade a little bit.

Mr. Ganton, a lifelong islander who owns a paddle-boarding business there, has never seen the water this high.

He isnt the only one who has begun to worry. When the islands were closed to visitors at the beginning of May, businesses such as Mr. Gantons were left without the thousands of tourists who would normally begin visiting the islands. The ferries are providing passage to anyone who has a reservation with an island business, but not many people knew this, he said.

When I realized that it was more serious, near the end of May, I upped my marketing like crazy because I somehow had to get the word out there that people were allowed to come over, he said. And it worked, to an extent.

During June of any other year, Mr. Ganton said he would have up to 100 groups of people coming to his business every week, whether for a paddle-boarding tour or to rent equipment. This season, he said, that number is closer to 10.

Ive been sort of shifting my tours to talking about the flood and its natural cycles and bringing people to some of the flooded areas, Mr. Ganton said. Its not a good thing, but its quite a unique thing that is interesting, especially if youre not familiar with the island or the Great Lakes.

Shawnda Walker, director of marketing for Centreville Amusement Park, said the numbers arent clear yet on how much the park has lost.

Weve definitely lost a lot of money. Its already been one third of our season, and were only open for a very short time, Ms. Walker said. In June, the park might see up to 10,000 people on a weekday.

Centreville found out about the closing of the islands three days before its opening date, which was the first Saturday in May.

While the water is nowhere near as high as it was in May, sandbags still line the roads and shores of Wards Island, and at the amusement park, a portion of the train tracks, as well as several benches and a bridge, are still underwater.

Ms. Walker said they had hoped to be able to announce the reopening on June 20, but the water was still too high.

Wed like to be able to announce something soon but until it hits that level, we cant, she said. Once the city says go, we can open it within 48 hours.

Ralph McQuinn, the owner and operator of Toronto Harbour Water Taxi, would be ready to go even sooner than that. He has two brand-new boats sitting in the docks that have yet to see the traffic June normally brings for his business.

Ive got everything in place. Im ready, Mr. McQuinn said. He has four people working for him now, when normally he would have 10. But the other six would come back to work at a moments notice.

Mr. McQuinn said that, although his business has lost a lot from the islands closing, he remains optimistic about the rest of the season. He knows his isnt the only business that is waiting for good news once the water is low enough.

Were all gonna get together and get things going, he said. That island will open up, then were going to get back to work, and I still think this summer is going to be a great summer.

Luc Cote of Tiki Taxi, another water-taxi company, said he is cautiously optimistic that the islands could be open soon.

Weve noticed a lot of activity, Mr. Cote said of Centre Island, where the amusement park is. Hes seen washrooms being cleaned, grass being cut, and other signs that, just like the taxi companies, the park is getting ready for business. You dont clean a bathroom now for July 31st, he said.

Mr. Cotes business normally picks up around the May long weekend, when it got a notice from the city about the closing. They cashed our cheque for the permits, and then told us the next day that permits were suspended, he said.

His first thought was of his staff. He told his employees he would do his best to keep them busy part-time. Mr. Cote wanted to keep as many of them on as possible so that if the islands are opened up, Tiki Taxi would be ready.

Like Mr. McQuinn, Mr. Cote has two brand-new boats for the summer. He estimates that, so far, his business has lost around $70,000. But he thinks this years flooding may have a positive effect on islands businesses after all the media attention the flooding has received.

Its incredible how many people dont even know that theres an island, he said. So now that peoples curiosity is piqued I think it may end up having a good effect in the long term.

Follow us on Twitter: @GlobeToronto

Excerpt from:

Businesses on flooded Toronto Islands see big dent in customer traffic - The Globe and Mail

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Views sought on proposed islands bill - BBC News BBC News The planned new legislation is designed to give Scotland's islanders greater powers and protection. and more »

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Views sought on proposed islands bill - BBC News - BBC News