National: Canada’s top court upholds Pickton conviction

The B.C. Crown says it will stay the remaining 20 charges against serial killer Robert Pickton after the Supreme Court of Canada rejected his request for a new trial. He will now serve 25 years behind bars. Pickton was convicted in December 2007 for the murders of six Vancouver women. The former pig farmer had sought an appeal on the grounds that the trial judge erred in changing his instructions to the jury.

International: July the deadliest month for U.S. troops in Afghanistan

July has been the deadliest month for U.S. forces in the nearly nine-year-old Afghan war following the deaths of six more troops in 48 hours. Three U.S. soldiers died in explosions in southern Afghanistan on Thursday, and another three were killed on Friday. The deaths bring to at least 66 the number of U.S. soldiers killed in Afghanistan in the month.

Health: Damp home linked to nasal allergies in kids

A study of nearly 2,000 Finnish children suggests those who live in damp, water-damaged homes may be at a greater risk of developing nasal allergies. Children whose parents reported any mold or water damage in the home were more than 50 per cent more likely than other kids to develop allergic rhinitis, caused by allergens such as pollen, dust, animal dander or mold.

Sports: Ronaldo praises new coach Mourinho

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo is full of praise for his new coach Jose Mourinho, calling him one of the best coaches in the world, if not the best. All eyes are on star forward Cristiano Ronaldo, the most expensive player in soccer history, as Real Madrid holds their 11-day pre-season practice in California. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Ronaldo expressed his confidence in the new coach, saying that all the players feel motivated.

Oddity: Cheeseburger found in South Carolina woman’s gas tank

Police in South Carolina say they received a complaint from a woman who says her gas tank was stuffed with a cheeseburger. The 30-year-old woman reportedly took her car to a mechanic when it suddenly stopped running. That’s when a cheeseburger and a pickle were found. Investigators say the damage cost about US$1,000 to repair.

Business: Apple’s iPhone 4 makes Canadian debut

Apple’s iPhone 4 is now available in Canada after being launched in the U.S. in June. Despite problems with dropped calls, enthusiasts brought camping chairs, blankets and pillows to wait overnight outside an Apple store in Toronto to buy the new gadget on Friday. Anyone buying the new iPhone4 will receive a free rubber case the company says will improve reception issues.