THE M777 towed howitzer might be enough to stop the Russian advance in eastern Ukraine (Wikipedia/USMC).

What could be a race between a Russian attack and the arrival of powerful American artillery may be unfolding in the eastern regions of Ukraine.

The Associated Press reports that invading forces are pushing into the city of Kramatorsk in the Donbas region, while Ukrainian defenders are battling to hold the attackers back.

Military analysts suggest that the arrival of the powerful and super-accurate M-777 towed howitzer from the U.S. – already on the way – could be enough to stop the Russian advance.

High-tech weapons from Western allies have been credited with repulsing the Russian drive towards the capital city of Kyiv.

What’s the solution to school shootings?

The latest mass shooting at a school has raised cries for action. But the two major political parties don’t agree on what that might mean.

According to Los Angeles Times, Democratic governors want more control on guns, especially high-caliber, high-capacity rifles.

Republicans see a different solution: more armed security on school campuses.

Other approaches included enhance mental health services and arming teachers and other school employees.

Sports: Dodgers vs. Bucs; Angels idle

The Los Angeles Dodgers lost 6-5 to the Pittsburgh Pirates Monday night. With the loss the Blue Crew remains in first place in the National League West with a 33-15 record.

Now, the Dodgers are three games ahead of the second place San Diego Padres (30-18) and 6.5 games ahead of the third place San Francisco Giants (26-21).

On Tuesday, the Halos will be in the Big Apple against the New York Yankees. Noah Syndergaard (4-2) gets the start for the Halos.

Weather:  Sun, sun, then mostly sunny

If you enjoyed today’s sunny skies, you’re not done yet. The forecast for the West Orange County area is for more sun on Tuesday, with daytime high of 77 (overnight low of 58).

Wednesday looks to be sunny and 81 during the day, dropping to 60 overnight.

Mostly cloudy conditions will move in on Thursday with a daytime high of 80 (62).