1. U.S. claims Russia fired rockets
The U.S. released satellite images Sunday which they say shows that rockets have been fired into Ukraine and heavy artillery also crossed the border. The photos, which are from the U.S. Director of National Intelligence and cannot be verified, show blast marks where rockets were launched and craters where they landed. The documents are part of U.S. President Barack Obama's attempt to hold Russia accountable and persuade European countries to increase sanctions. Meanwhile, fighting has intensified near the Malaysia Airlines flight 17 crash site as Ukrainian forces attempt to gain control over the area.
2. The buzz on Laureen Harper
In case you missed it yesterday, Prime Minister Stephen Harper's wife, Laureen, didn't even flinch Sunday while being swarmed by bees. She was visiting the rooftop beehive and garden at Toronto's Fairmont Royal York Hotel and seemed very comfortable adjusting the enclosure after getting stung. This happened as the Executive Chef ran around ducking and swiping his hands over his head. The Prime Minister's Office suggested a reason for Harper's comfort –- her dad raised bees on the family farm.
3. Intense Summer Weather
Temperatures are expected to rise again this week in B.C. where firefighters are concerned another heat wave will spark more fires. Meanwhile, south of the border wildfires in California, Washington, Oregon, Colorado and Utah are destroying homes and forcing evacuations. California is experiencing its worst drought on record and no rain is in the forecast for the part of the state where the worst fires are burning. While parts of the U.S. are experiencing forest fires, heavy rains and thunderstorms hit the Los Angeles area. Lightning struck 13 people on a beach leaving one man dead.
4. Commonwealth Games
Canadian athletes captured two bronze medals at the Commonwealth Games Sunday. Swimmer Hilary Caldwell was third in the 200m backstroke and cyclist Remi Pelletier-Roy was third in the 20km scratch event. Lanni Marchant finished fourth in the women's marathon. Reigning Commonwealth gold medalist and Olympic silver and bronze medalist Ryan Cochrane will be in the pool Monday. Artistic gymnastics will also begin competition with the team event. Canada is tied for sixth in the overall medal tally with 18. The Games are taking place in Glasgow, Scotland with competition going on until Aug. 3.
5. Vancouver Pride kicks off
Vancouver's 36th annual Pride Week officially kicks off later today with a declaration by Mayor Gregor Robertson. The Whitecaps soccer club teamed up with the Vancouver Price Society for the game Sunday night so proceeds from ticket sales will towards the Society. Also this week will be a trans youth film night on Tuesday, the Davie Street Block Party on Friday and the Parade on Sunday. Also happening this week in Vancouver’s West End: The annual ‘Celebration of Light’ fireworks show.
