Voter turnout exceeds expectations in California's Proposition 50 special election

California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a plan to allocate $80 million and deploy the National Guard to assist food banks during the ongoing government shutdown. This move comes as many families are facing delays in federal food benefits just ahead of Thanksgiving, a critical time for food security. Newsom's proactive approach aims to mitigate the impact of the shutdown on vulnerable populations, ensuring that those in need receive support during the holiday season.

A wild black bear made a surprising appearance at the Sequoia Park Zoo in Eureka, California, while staff were conducting a routine inspection. The bear curiously looked in at the captive bears, and zoo officials described the encounter as polite and harmless. This unexpected visit highlights the fascinating interactions between wildlife and urban environments, reminding us of the importance of coexistence and the need for wildlife conservation.

The chess community is mourning the loss of Daniel Naroditsky, a talented grandmaster who passed away at just 29. Born in California, he made a name for himself by winning the Under 12 world championship and achieving grandmaster status at the young age of 18. His contributions to the game and his early achievements inspire many young players, making his untimely death a significant loss for the sport.

Health officials in California have reported three unrelated cases of clade I mpox, a more severe strain of the virus previously known as monkeypox. This marks the first instance of this particular strain spreading within the United States. The emergence of clade I mpox is concerning as it highlights the ongoing public health challenges posed by the virus, emphasizing the need for vigilance and preventive measures to protect communities.

Mark Killick, a notorious cowboy builder, has been convicted of fraud after charging customers for home renovation projects that he left unfinished. This case highlights the ongoing issue of untrustworthy contractors in the construction industry, leaving homeowners vulnerable and out of pocket. It's a reminder for consumers to thoroughly vet builders before hiring them.

The final T20 match between New Zealand and England is underway in Auckland, with England aiming for a series victory. The match has started with some exciting plays, including a strong opening from Tim Seifert. This game is significant as it not only determines the series winner but also showcases the competitive spirit of both teams, making it a must-watch for cricket fans.

In the second men's one-day international at Adelaide Oval, Australia is chasing a target of 265 runs to secure a victory against India. The match is currently in its early stages, with India starting cautiously against Australia's Josh Hazlewood, who has previously troubled their top order. This game is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit between two cricketing giants and could influence the series outcome.

In a recent statement, Trump expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of talks with Putin, noting that they 'don't go anywhere.' This comes as the US imposes new sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, Russia's largest oil companies, in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These sanctions are significant as they aim to pressure Russia economically, highlighting the US's commitment to supporting Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its actions.

Oil prices have surged following the US government's decision to impose sanctions on Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil. This move is part of a broader strategy to address geopolitical tensions and could have significant implications for global oil markets. Meanwhile, economic discussions are set to take place in Malaysia between US officials and China's Vice Premier He Lifeng, highlighting ongoing trade relations and the importance of dialogue in navigating these complex issues.

The recent preliminary approval by Israeli lawmakers to apply Israeli law to the occupied West Bank has raised significant concerns regarding the peace process with Palestinians. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has labeled this move as 'counterproductive,' emphasizing that it threatens the fragile negotiations for a peace deal. This development is crucial as it could further escalate tensions in the region and undermine efforts to establish a lasting resolution between Israel and Palestine.