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Thursday, November 13, 2025

TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST NOVEMBER 13, 2025

 

TODAY'S TOP NEWS STORIES 

NOVEMBER 13, 2025

U.S. NewsPolitics
  • Government Shutdown Ends After House Vote: Lawmakers passed a bipartisan spending bill to reopen federal operations after 43 days, with the measure now headed to the president for signature.
  • PBS News Hour Covers Return to Washington: The House reconvened to address the shutdown-ending legislation, marking a key step in resolving the fiscal standoff.
  • Epstein Emails Implicate Trump Allies: Documents reveal Epstein's efforts to leverage connections to Trump, including claims of insider access to sensitive information.
  • Biden Official's Funds Targeted in Scandal: Charges against a former aide expose alleged skimming from campaigns tied to high-level Democrats.
World Affairs
  • G7 Diplomats Convene Amid U.S. Trade Tensions: Top envoys from G7 nations met in Canada to discuss rising trade frictions, particularly with the incoming Trump administration's tariff proposals.
  • European Shares Hit Records as Global Markets React to U.S. Shutdown End: International equities surged, with focus on how the U.S. fiscal resolution impacts global trade and interest rates.
  • Bihar Elections Heat Up in India: Political developments in Bihar drew international attention as key alliances formed ahead of state polls, influencing regional dynamics.
  • China's Global Markets Wrap Includes U.S. Bond Yield Shifts: Beijing observers noted dips in U.S. yields post-shutdown, with implications for currency and investment flows.
EducationEconomy
  • Equities Rise as U.S. Government Reopens: Stock markets climbed modestly, with U.S. bond yields dipping in response to the shutdown's end and focus on interest rates.
  • Dow Hits All-Time Highs Pre-Vote: Wall Street rallied ahead of the House's shutdown-ending approval, signaling investor relief from fiscal uncertainty.
  • Trump Tariffs Projected as Major Tax Hike: UBS analysis warns that proposed tariffs could equate to a significant tax increase, risking recession in parts of the economy.
  • K-Shaped Recovery Highlighted by 'Three A-Pillars': Economists describe uneven growth propped by AI, automation, and assets amid broader challenges.
  • October Jobs and Inflation Data Delayed: White House confirms the shutdown prevented release of key economic reports, complicating Fed decisions.
Technology
  • AMD Shares Surge on AI Revenue Outlook: Advanced Micro Devices stock rose 7% as investors welcomed aggressive growth targets driven by AI demand.
  • Anthropic Commits $50 Billion to U.S. Data Centers: The AI firm announced massive investments to expand infrastructure, boosting domestic tech capacity.
  • Tech Sector Rebounds with Shutdown Resolution: Stocks in technology lifted broader markets as fiscal stability returns, easing investment concerns.
  • Top Startup Funding Rounds Roundup: Key investments highlighted in AI, fintech, and cleantech, signaling continued venture momentum.
  • Trump Nominates Billionaire for NASA Head: Elon Musk ally Jared Isaacman tapped to lead the space agency, pending Senate confirmation.
Health
  • 14th-Century Black Death Myth Debunked: Historians trace a fabricated story about the plague's origins, which misled global understanding for centuries.
  • Daily Coffee Linked to Lower AFib Risk: One cup per day may reduce atrial fibrillation recurrence by 39%, per new cardiovascular research.
  • Metformin Shows Limits in Heart and Diabetes Benefits: The common drug may not fully protect against cardiovascular issues or enhance insulin sensitivity as hoped.
  • Mental Health Tech Innovations Spotlighted: Emerging tools for therapy and monitoring gain traction, with fact-checked updates on efficacy.
Sports



Mary Trump: Her Uncle on Veterans Day https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/12/mary-trump-her-uncle-on-veterans-day/ via @dianeravitch 

Mary Trump criticizes her uncle, Donald Trump, for his actions as president, particularly on Veterans Day, highlighting his misuse of power, controversial pardons, and lack of respect for American veterans and democratic values. She contrasts his behavior with President Obama's respectful acknowledgment of veterans and their sacrifices.

### Key Points
- Mary Trump condemns Donald Trump for using the US military extralegally, abusing presidential pardon powers, and pardoning individuals involved in criminal activities, including the January 6th insurrection. 
- Donald Trump’s actions on Veterans Day, including his appearance at Arlington National Cemetery, are described as disrespectful and self-serving, with remarks that distort the holiday's purpose of honoring veterans' sacrifices. 
- Veterans across the country protested Trump's immigration policies and misuse of the military, citing increased danger and authoritarian tactics. 
- The United Kingdom partially halted intelligence sharing with the US due to concerns over Trump's military actions violating international law. 
- President Obama’s respectful acknowledgment of veterans during an honor flight event contrasts sharply with Trump’s behavior, demonstrating true leadership. 


The article discusses the corporate-driven reforms in public education spearheaded by Colorado Governor Jared Polis during his tenure as chair of the National Governors Association (NGA). Polis, a strong advocate for charter schools, prioritized K-12 education with a focus on workforce preparation, supported by corporate and philanthropic entities promoting market-based solutions. Critics argue that this approach undermines public schools, ignores broader educational goals like citizenship and critical thinking, and perpetuates failed ideas about school choice and high-stakes testing.

### Key Points
- Colorado Governor Jared Polis, chair of the NGA, prioritized K-12 education with a focus on workforce readiness, emphasizing charter schools and market-based reforms. 
- The initiative received support from corporate entities and foundations promoting technology solutions, school choice, and data-driven accountability. 
- Critics highlight the neglect of public education’s broader purposes, such as fostering citizenship, creativity, and critical thinking. 
- Charter school models, heavily promoted by corporate reformers, are criticized for exacerbating school segregation and failing to deliver promised improvements. 
- The article condemns the persistence of failed corporate reform ideas and calls for support of public schools as essential for democratic governance and equal opportunity. 

John Thompson: Oklahoma Wants to Copy the "Mississippi Miracle" by Retaining 3rd Graders https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/12/oklahoma-legislators-want-to-copy-the-mississippi-miracle-by-retaining-3rd-graders/ via @dianeravitch 

Oklahoma legislators are debating whether to replicate Mississippi's controversial education policy, which includes retaining third graders who fail reading tests, aiming to improve literacy rates. While Mississippi showed short-term success in fourth-grade reading scores, long-term effects and sustainability remain unclear, with studies highlighting potential harm, including increased dropout rates and psychological impacts. Critics urge Oklahoma to adopt a balanced, evidence-based approach focusing on systemic improvements rather than punitive measures.

### Key Points
- Oklahoma considers adopting Mississippi's education model, emphasizing third-grade retention and phonics-based reading curriculum. 
- Mississippi's short-term success in fourth-grade reading scores is linked to retention policies but shows limited long-term benefits. 
- Studies reveal retention policies may harm students, leading to higher dropout rates and reduced graduation chances. 
- Experts advocate for comprehensive, well-funded literacy programs and systemic changes rather than punitive measures. 
- Oklahoma's new Superintendent emphasizes a long-term, interconnected approach to improving literacy outcomes. 

How Donald Trump Solved Healthcare (in His Brain) https://dianeravitch.net/2025/11/12/how-donald-trump-solved-healthcare-in-his-brain/ via @dianeravitch 

This article discusses the political and ideological motivations behind Republican efforts to dismantle the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), offering insights into Donald Trump’s proposed alternative and its implications.

### Key Points

- The federal government shutdown stemmed from Democrats’ efforts to preserve Obamacare, with Republicans seeking to eliminate it despite its success. 

- Donald Trump’s proposed healthcare plan involves eliminating Obamacare and leaving individuals to purchase their own insurance, which would disadvantage those unable to afford it. 

- Republicans are reportedly drafting legislation to repeal Obamacare without a viable replacement, drawing criticism from figures like Elizabeth Warren. 




The article compiles a wide range of political, social, educational, economic, and global updates, highlighting key developments such as the U.S. government shutdown resolution, educational reforms, healthcare debates, and international conflicts. It also delves into issues like public education privatization, AI integration, teacher policies, healthcare reform, and social justice movements.  

### Key Points  
- The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan funding bill to end the six-week government shutdown, restoring federal operations and addressing immediate economic concerns.   
- President Trump proposed distributing tariff revenue as direct checks to Americans, sparking debates over fiscal policy and implementation challenges.   
- Investigations into civil rights violations, including campus free speech and security lapses at universities, are intensifying under the Justice Department.   
- Colorado voters strongly supported public education, electing pro-public school candidates and approving tax measures for school nutrition programs.   
- Tennessee Leads, an organization aiming to expand charter schools and voucher programs, faces criticism for diverting funds from public schools and promoting ineffective teaching methods.   
- New Hampshire’s voucher program, "Education Freedom Accounts," exceeded its budget, with 80% of vouchers benefiting students already in private schools. Critics highlight accountability and equity issues.   
- Medicare for All is proposed as a solution to systemic healthcare issues, emphasizing universal coverage and reduced costs, though it faces ideological resistance.   
- AI advancements are reshaping education and healthcare, with concerns over ethical implications and market volatility in AI infrastructure investments.   
- Dual enrollment programs in high schools are expanding, allowing students to earn college credits, but raising equity and quality concerns.   
- Teacher merit pay is critiqued as an ineffective policy, with systemic factors like family income and social capital being more significant for student outcomes.   
- International conflicts, including Israeli strikes on Hezbollah and unrest in Iran, reflect rising geopolitical tensions.   
- The Trump administration faced backlash for controversial pardons and delays in SNAP funding during the shutdown.   
- Public education is framed as central to America’s civic vision, with privatization and "educational freedom" initiatives criticized for undermining equity.   
- Mental health among international students in U.S. colleges has worsened, with recommendations for culturally competent counseling and AI-assisted tools.   
- California’s charter school system faces challenges with fraud, financial mismanagement, and slowed growth, prompting calls for stronger accountability.   
- Advocacy for children’s issues on social media is urged to counter misinformation and divisive narratives, emphasizing strategic engagement.   
- Former President Obama surprised veterans on Honor Flight to DC for Veterans Day, honoring their service and gifting Presidential Challenge coins. 

Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: NOVEMBER 12, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/morning-news-update-veterans-day_12.html 

Schools, politics, global affairs, and technology dominate today's news. Key topics include campus free speech debates, the government shutdown, AI developments, healthcare updates, and sports highlights.

### Key Points
- Civil rights weaponization impacts campus free speech debates. 
- U.S. government shutdown persists, affecting services, food aid, and economic stability. 
- AI advancements spark global competition and ethical discussions. 
- Healthcare updates include vaccine rule revisions, coffee’s health benefits, and SNAP funding concerns. 
- Sports updates cover NBA All-Star format changes and college football rankings. 

Big Education Ape: "WELL, THERE YOU GO AGAIN": A TRAGICOMIC HISTORY OF AMERICA'S ETERNAL HEALTHCARE DEBATE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/well-there-you-go-again-tragicomic.html 

The article offers a detailed, satirical, and historical exploration of America's ongoing healthcare debate, highlighting the inefficiencies and challenges of the current system. It advocates for Medicare for All as a solution, emphasizing the need for urgent reform to ensure universal healthcare coverage and eliminate medical bankruptcy and inequality.

### Key Points  
- The healthcare debate in America has persisted for over a century, with repeated arguments and little progress.   
- Historical attempts at healthcare reform, including proposals by Teddy Roosevelt, FDR, Truman, LBJ, Ted Kennedy, and the Clintons, faced significant opposition and failed to achieve universal coverage.   
- Medicare and Medicaid were landmark achievements under LBJ, providing coverage for the elderly and poor, but the system still leaves many uninsured.   
- The Affordable Care Act (ACA) marked progress but remains contentious, with ongoing debates and threats of repeal.   
- America spends more on healthcare per capita than any other nation but fails to provide universal coverage, leaving millions uninsured or underinsured.   
- The divide between insured Americans and those struggling with healthcare costs highlights systemic inequality and unfairness.   
- Medicare for All is proposed as an efficient and cost-effective solution, leveraging the existing Medicare system to provide universal coverage.   
- Objections to Medicare for All, such as cost, radicalism, and socialism, are countered with evidence of its practicality and benefits.   
- The article critiques the Republican Party's historical opposition to healthcare reform, questioning whether it stems from principled concerns or reflexive obstruction.   
- The current system prioritizes profits over people, leading to medical bankruptcies, rationing of medications, and avoidable deaths.   
- Suggestions for transitioning to Medicare for All include phasing it in by lowering the eligibility age or introducing a public option to compete with private insurance.   
- Universal healthcare is framed as a moral and values-based issue, advocating for healthcare as a right rather than a privilege. 
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST NOVEMBER 11, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01178929682.html 

Big Education Ape: WHY WE NEED UNIVERSAL ON-DEMAND FREE EDUCATION AND TRAINING IN THE AGE OF AI OR, HOW TO OUTRUN OUR AI ROBOT OVERLORDS AND WIN THE FUTURE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/11/why-we-need-universal-on-demand-free.html 

The article advocates for universal, on-demand, free education and training as a necessary response to the rapid advancements in AI and its impact on the job market. It explores the challenges posed by AI-driven automation, the societal and economic consequences of inaction, and the opportunities for creating a more adaptable workforce through lifelong learning. The article outlines practical solutions, including infrastructure investments, public-private partnerships, and policy changes, to ensure that workers can transition into new careers and thrive in the AI economy.

### Key Points  
- The rise of AI is rapidly transforming the job market, automating many tasks while creating new opportunities requiring different skills.   
- Universal, on-demand, free education and training is essential to equip workers with the skills needed for the AI-driven economy.   
- AI is displacing jobs at a faster pace than previous technological revolutions, making lifelong learning a necessity.   
- The current education system is outdated and ill-equipped to meet the demands of the modern workforce.   
- Society has a moral obligation to help workers displaced by AI adapt to new careers through retraining and support.   
- Investing in education yields significant economic returns, reducing unemployment, boosting productivity, and fostering innovation.   
- AI can be leveraged to democratize access to education through personalized learning, adaptive curricula, and virtual training.   
- Lifelong learning should include flexible formats, micro-credentials, recognition of prior experience, and support services like childcare and stipends.   
- New job roles in AI, such as trainers, ethicists, and sustainers, require specific, learnable skills that must be taught.   
- Political will and funding are critical to implementing universal education, with suggested funding sources including automation taxes and public-private partnerships.   
- Without action, the future could see a divided society with high unemployment and social unrest.   
- A successful implementation of universal education could lead to a thriving, adaptable workforce and a globally competitive economy.   
- The article calls for federal legislation, infrastructure investments, curriculum development, and cultural shifts to prioritize lifelong learning. 

The article provides a detailed overview of political, social, economic, educational, and global developments, with a focus on the U.S. government shutdown, elections, healthcare, education reforms, and international affairs. It highlights key events, debates, and outcomes shaping various domains, including significant shifts in public sentiment, policy challenges, and ideological divides.







When the Dutch Become America’s Conscience About Black Veterans – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/11/12/when-the-dutch-become-americas-conscience-about-black-veterans/ 

When two panels honoring Black World War II veterans were removed from the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten, Dutch officials condemned the act, calling it "indecent and unacceptable." The panels highlighted the valor and racial struggles of Black soldiers who fought in segregated units during the war. Their removal reflects a broader issue of historical erasure and the American government's tendency to sanitize uncomfortable truths about racism. Dutch leaders demanded the panels be restored, emphasizing the importance of historical honesty and remembrance. The article underscores the moral responsibility of nations to confront their histories, with the Netherlands acting as a mirror to America's unresolved racial issues.

### Key Points

- Dutch officials condemned the removal of panels honoring Black WWII veterans from the Netherlands American Cemetery, calling the act indecent and demanding restoration. 

- The panels highlighted the paradox of Black soldiers fighting for freedom abroad while enduring racism at home. Their erasure reflects a broader pattern of historical manipulation. 

- Dutch leaders emphasized that erasing uncomfortable truths weakens a nation and called for moral accountability in preserving history. 

- The Netherlands' culture of remembrance contrasts with America's tendency to sanitize its history, raising questions about the integrity of national memory. 



Leading through crises: Key lessons from school principals   Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/ 

### Key Points

- Research from Edith Cowan University highlights how Australasian school principals adapted their leadership styles to navigate crises like COVID-19, cyclones, and bushfires from 2020 to 2023. They emphasized wellbeing, relationship-building, and collaborative leadership. 

- Three key lessons for crisis leadership emerged: adapting leadership styles to the crisis, prioritizing relationships and wellbeing, and preparing for the personal and professional toll of crises. 

- A study in New York schools found that teacher autonomy, collaboration, and collective responsibility significantly improve outcomes for English learners, especially in schools with a high proportion of immigrant students. 

- A University at Albany study revealed disparities in early reading difficulties among U.S. elementary students, with Black, Hispanic, and Native American children being disproportionately affected. Socioeconomic status and early academic skills were major predictors of these difficulties. 

- Faculty sexual misconduct in academia reduces in-field degree completion, particularly in male-dominated fields, with incidents after 2015 leading to significant declines. 

- Immigration enforcement in 2025 negatively affected academic performance for Spanish-speaking students in Florida, with effects more pronounced in middle and high school students. 



Schools Matter: New Report Shows How WH Weaponized Civil Rights to Attack Campus Free Speech http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/11/new-report-shows-how-wh-weaponized.html 

A new report by the AAUP and Middle East Studies Association highlights the misuse of civil rights laws to suppress campus speech critical of Israel and in support of Palestinian human rights. The study examines government investigations and lawsuits under Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, revealing a surge in such actions since October 2023, primarily driven by external pro-Israel groups. These investigations often equate anti-Zionist speech with antisemitism, pressuring universities into policy changes. The Trump and Biden administrations are both implicated in this trend, with the report criticizing coercive agreements and lawsuits that stifle dissent.

### Key Points

- A report reveals the weaponization of civil rights laws to target campus speech advocating for Palestinian rights, often labeling criticism of Israel as antisemitism. 

- Investigations and lawsuits under Title VI have surged since October 2023, driven by external pro-Israel groups, with most complaints unrelated to racial harassment. 

- Universities have faced pressure to implement policy changes and share sensitive data due to federal investigations and lawsuits, often without final judgments. 

- The report critiques the Trump administration’s Task Force to Combat Antisemitism for using allegations as a pretext to cut funding and enforce coercive agreements. 



Teacher Tom: Playing With Evil https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/11/playing-with-evil.html 

Teacher Tom explores the concept of morality, play, and peace, reflecting on a university debate about religion, law, and the nature of good and evil. He argues that play-based experiences allow people to explore dark themes like violence in a safe and constructive manner, potentially contributing to long-term societal peace. He contrasts religious and legal motivations for morality, emphasizing the role of play in understanding and internalizing values beyond external rewards or punishments.

### Key Points

- A university debate provoked questions about morality, religion, and the prevention of violence. 

- The author reflects on childhood play involving themes of violence and its role in understanding the futility of aggression. 

- Concerns about morality tied to faith or law highlight the importance of intrinsic values over external controls. 

- Historical trends show a decline in murder rates, suggesting societal progress. 

- Fictional media and play-based learning provide opportunities to explore dark themes, fostering peace. 

- Play-based education is linked to developing intrinsic morality and understanding good versus evil. 


Greetings, Audible! Meet the Rose City Roasters... All four books in my queer baseball romance series are available in audio as of November 11th KELLY REYNOLDS https://authorkellyrey.substack.com/p/greetings-audible-meet-the-rose-city 

All four books in the Rose City Roasters queer baseball romance series by Kelly Reynolds are now available as audiobooks on Audible, as of November 11, 2025, with Books 5 and 6 expected in 2026. The production process emphasized inclusivity, with queer voice actors cast to bring authenticity to the stories. Additionally, the article highlights indie sports romance book recommendations and encourages readers to join Kelly's inclusive Facebook group or subscribe to her Substack for exclusive content.

### Key Points

- The first four books in the Rose City Roasters series are now available as audiobooks on Audible, with Books 5 and 6 expected in 2026. 

- The audiobook production process prioritized inclusivity, casting queer voice actors to reflect the series' themes of belonging and authenticity. 

- Recommendations for indie sports romance books, including "Vegas Baby," "Broken Play," and "Catching Our Moment," are shared. 

- Kelly Reynolds promotes her Facebook group, Kelly’s Book Baddies, as a welcoming space for romance lovers, and her Substack offers exclusive content, like a sapphic short story. 



glen brown: "No War, No Distraction, No Flag-Waving Speech Should Bury Trump's Alleged Crimes" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/11/no-war-no-distraction-no-flag-waving.html 

The article discusses various political, social, and ethical issues, focusing on allegations against Donald Trump, the misuse of power, and the broader implications for democracy. It highlights the dangers of distraction tactics, such as war, used by leaders in crisis, and emphasizes the need for vigilance and advocacy for justice and truth.

### Key Points

- Allegations against Donald Trump regarding his association with Jeffrey Epstein and potential crimes. 

- Concerns about Trump using military action, such as tensions with Venezuela, as a distraction from domestic scandals. 

- Historical examples of autocrats using war to divert attention from political crises, stressing the importance of resisting such tactics. 

- Advocacy for justice and truth over political theater, urging citizens to hold leaders accountable. 

- Broader themes on social justice, corruption, and the demoralization of adjunct faculty in higher education. 

glen brown: "Trump has granted clemency to allies, donors and culture-war figures — as well as felons" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/11/trump-has-granted-clemency-to-allies.html 

The article discusses former President Donald Trump's use of presidential clemency during his second term, highlighting how he has bypassed traditional processes to grant pardons to allies, donors, and individuals involved in financial crimes or public corruption, often leaving ordinary applicants behind. It critiques the clemency system's flaws and Trump's exploitation of it for political and personal gain.

### Key Points

- Trump has granted clemency predominantly to allies, donors, and those convicted of financial crimes, bypassing standard Department of Justice protocols. 

- Many pardons were granted to individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol riots and other politically connected figures. 

- The clemency process under Trump's administration has largely ignored traditional standards, leaving thousands of applicants waiting and disillusioned. 

- Some pardons erased not only criminal convictions but also financial restitutions owed to victims, raising ethical concerns. 

- Critics argue that the clemency power, while absolute, has been exploited by Trump to reward supporters and donors, further undermining public trust in the system. 











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