Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
8-31-25

Big Education Ape: IN THE BEGINNING, THERE WAS CHAOS: A BIBLICAL PARODY OF THE OLIGARCHY’S RAW-DOGGING OF THE CONSTITUTION https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/in-beginning-there-was-chaos-biblical.html 

### Key Points

- The article uses biblical allegory to critique the erosion of democratic principles in the U.S., highlighting the influence of oligarchs and conservative forces on the Constitution. 

- Mitch McConnell's actions in the Senate, including blocking Merrick Garland's Supreme Court nomination and invoking the "nuclear option," are portrayed as undermining justice and tipping the balance of the judiciary. 

- The Supreme Court's adoption of the Unitary Executive Theory is criticized for concentrating executive power and weakening checks and balances. 

- The rise of "King Trump" is described as a culmination of Senate and Court complicity, leading to authoritarian governance and agency manipulation. 

- The article warns of societal chaos fueled by oligarchic greed, rising inequality, and weakened democratic institutions. 

- A call to action emphasizes the importance of voting, organizing, and restoring democratic principles to counter authoritarianism and oligarchy. 

Big Education Ape: THE NOVICHOK CANDIDATE: A SHORT STORY BY V. PUTIN https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/the-novichok-candidate-short-story-by-v.html 

The article explores fictionalized accounts of Donald Trump’s presidency, allegations of Russian influence, and the unraveling of American institutions. It also touches on public education advocacy, systemic issues, and the influence of billionaires in politics.

### Key Points

- Satirical depiction of Trump’s presidency, alleging Russian influence and chaotic governance. 

- Speculation about Trump’s Helsinki meeting with Putin and its potential implications. 

- Criticism of Trump’s policies, including immigration crackdowns, diversity program eliminations, and executive orders. 

- Alleged connections between Trump, Elon Musk, and Russian oligarchs, raising concerns about election integrity and policymaking. 

- Whistleblower investigations into Trump’s administration, uncovering suspicious ties and actions. 

- Advocacy for public education reform and resistance against privatization. 

Big Education Ape: LET'S CHECK THIS WEEK'S TOP NEWS AND OTHER STORIES Saturday, August 30, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/saturday-august-23-2025-lets-check-this.html 

### Key Points

- A roundup of blog posts and news stories from August 2025 is presented, covering topics like privatization resistance, school shootings, and public education advocacy. 

- References to Diane Ravitch’s work and other educational advocacy efforts are included, promoting better public education and resistance to privatization. 

Big Education Ape: A MODEST PROPOSAL FOR A TRIGGER-HAPPY NATION https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/a-modest-proposal-for-trigger-happy.html 

A MODEST PROPOSAL FOR A TRIGGER-HAPPY NATION critiques America's gun culture, highlighting the prevalence of school shootings and proposing satirical solutions like taxing firearms, ammunition, and introducing mandatory insurance for gun owners. The article also suggests holding gun manufacturers accountable for damages caused by their products, using capitalism as a tool for reform. It concludes with a humorous take on societal inaction and the need for tangible change.

### Key Points

- ICE must present judicial or administrative warrants to enter private property. 

- A school shooting in Minneapolis underscores the tragedy of gun violence in the U.S. 

- The U.S. has seen 44 school shootings in 2025, with 18 deaths and 74 injuries. 

- Southern states lead in school shootings, with Texas and Washington, DC, as key contributors. 

- A satirical proposal suggests taxing guns, ammo, and introducing mandatory insurance for gun owners. 

- Proposed penalties for gun-related crimes include hefty fines and prison sentences. 

- Suggestions include holding gun manufacturers liable for damages caused by their products. 

- Revenue from gun taxes could fund mental health programs, school security, and public infrastructure. 

- The satire critiques societal reliance on "thoughts and prayers" without actionable solutions. 

Sabbath Discussion: Pulpits as Political Platforms? IRS Rewrites the Rulebook – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2025/08/30/pulpits-as-political-platforms-irs-rewrites-the-rulebook/ 

In summer 2025, the IRS announced that houses of worship could endorse political candidates during worship services without losing their tax-exempt status, marking a significant reinterpretation of the Johnson Amendment. This decision has sparked debates about free speech, campaign finance integrity, and the separation of church and state.

### Key Points

- The IRS decision allows religious institutions to endorse political candidates within worship services while retaining tax-exempt status, reshaping the Johnson Amendment. 

- Supporters argue this restores free speech for faith leaders, enabling them to address moral and civic issues openly. Critics warn it risks turning churches into partisan political tools, undermining campaign finance transparency and faith integrity. 

- Ellen G. White’s caution about church-state union highlights the potential spiritual and civic consequences of this shift. 

- The IRS ruling applies only to internal religious communications, but critics note that modern technology blurs the line between internal and external messaging. 

- This decision could lead to partisan churches, deepening societal divisions and impacting democracy through tax-deductible donations disguised as political spending. 

- Faith leaders face a profound choice: embrace political power or resist the union of church and state, as warned by Ellen White. 

Education Research Report: ADHD drugs are being prescribed too quickly to preschoolers https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2025/08/adhd-drugs-are-being-prescribed-too.html 

### Key Points

- A Stanford Medicine-led study found that ADHD medications are often prescribed too quickly to preschoolers, bypassing the American Academy of Pediatrics' guidelines recommending six months of behavioral therapy first. 

- Stimulant medications can cause more side effects in young children, such as irritability and aggression, due to their bodies not fully metabolizing the drugs before age 6. 

- Behavioral therapy focuses on modifying a child’s surroundings and routines, helping families build long-term skills, while medication only provides symptom relief. Both treatments are typically needed for effective ADHD management. 

- The study analyzed medical records of nearly 10,000 preschoolers with ADHD and found that 42.2% were prescribed medication within a month of diagnosis, with only 14.1% receiving medication after six months. 

- Access to behavioral therapy is a significant barrier, as some areas lack therapists or insurance coverage for these treatments, leading physicians to prescribe medication as an alternative. 

- Free or low-cost online resources are available to help parents learn behavioral therapy principles, which can benefit children of all ages with ADHD. 

- Medication is not considered a standalone solution for ADHD, as behavioral therapy provides essential life skills for children and families. 

- The study was conducted by researchers from multiple institutions and supported by grants from national health organizations. 

Fool Me Once, Shame on You... Fool me half a dozen times, and expect me to fall for it again, and I must be hopeless https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/fool-me-once-shame-on-you-af7 

Fool Me Once, Shame on You... Fool me half a dozen times, and expect me to fall for it again, and I must be hopeless Arthur Goldstein  Share Greetings from the Delaware Valley Bluegrass Festival. I’m here for the weekend, but staying at a Holiday Inn. (None of that camping stuff for me.) Last night I watched Del McCoury, 87 years old, sing his heart out, hitting high notes that elude many. You may not love his music, but it’s inspiring to see him able to do this at that age. Of course, we all need help at every age. And it’s becoming increasingly more difficult, here in America, to get it. Trump is out there introducing pre-approvals to Medicare , in a clear effort to make it more like Medicare Advantage. This will be introduced in six states next year, New Jersey included, and it’s something

### Key Points

- The article discusses the challenges of accessing healthcare in America, particularly under Trump's proposed changes to Medicare, which aim to resemble Medicare Advantage. 

- A new health plan for city workers raises concerns about tiering hospitals, potentially leading to higher costs for patients. 

- The Unity Caucus has a history of misleading union members, introducing plans with hidden costs and co-pays, and rushing decisions without transparency. 

- Medicare Advantage plans, promoted by Unity, have faced backlash due to false claims about doctor acceptance and lack of proper consultation. 

- Unity's approach to healthcare changes has been criticized for prioritizing cost-cutting over member benefits, with examples like increased co-pays and penalizing hospitals. 

- The article calls for greater transparency and member involvement in union decisions, especially regarding healthcare changes. 

Trump's planned assault on Chicago. Remembering the Ft. Hood 43 who refused to march on Chicago in '68. https://michaelklonsky.substack.com/p/trumps-planned-assault-on-chicago 

### Key Points

- The Trump administration plans to deploy federal immigration agents and National Guard troops to Chicago, using Naval Station Great Lakes as a staging ground. 

- Naval Station Great Lakes is strategically chosen for its federal control, logistical advantages, and operational privacy, bypassing opposition from Illinois officials. 

- This tactic mirrors previous federal deployments in Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, where agents were housed offsite but sent into urban areas. 

- Transporting troops and equipment into Chicago presents logistical challenges, including potential protests and traffic disruptions. 

- Historical resistance within the military, such as the Fort Hood 43 in 1968, highlights troop morale issues and potential dissent. 

- In 1968, 43 Black soldiers at Fort Hood refused deployment to Chicago, citing ethical concerns about suppressing protests in their own communities. They were court-martialed for their defiance. 

- Illinois National Guardsmen were also deployed during the 1968 Democratic Convention protests, but military resistance played a notable role during that time. 

Linda McMahon’s Reckless and Scary Disregard for Special Education History - Nancy Bailey's Education Website https://nancyebailey.com/2025/08/30/linda-mcmahons-reckless-and-scary-disregard-for-special-education-history/ 

Linda McMahon's approach to special education in the U.S. is criticized for disregarding its historical progress and undermining federal oversight, which could lead to reduced protections for students with disabilities. Her advocacy for returning education control to states, promoting vouchers, and dismantling the Department of Education raises concerns about accountability and the quality of special education services. Historical context highlights the challenges faced by students with disabilities before laws like IDEA, emphasizing the importance of federal oversight. Current examples from various states illustrate the struggles in maintaining adequate special education services amidst teacher shortages, funding cuts, and policy changes. Critics warn that eliminating federal oversight will create chaos and harm vulnerable students.

### Key Points

- Linda McMahon's policies risk reversing progress in special education by undermining federal oversight and promoting state control. 

- Historical challenges in special education before IDEA highlight the importance of federal mandates for inclusion and accountability. 

- Examples from states like Alaska, Florida, Colorado, and others show ongoing struggles in providing adequate special education services. 

- Critics argue that dismantling the Department of Education will harm students with disabilities and create chaos in service delivery. 

glen brown: "The allegations suggest that the American presidency is compromised at its core" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/08/the-allegations-suggest-that-american.html 

The article delves into allegations made by Alnur Mussayev, former head of Kazakhstan’s National Security Committee, regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin's possession of compromising material ("kompromat") on Donald Trump. Mussayev claims this material is used strategically to influence Trump's actions and align them with Russian geopolitical interests, including undermining NATO and destabilizing Western alliances. The allegations suggest a deep compromise of the American presidency, with implications of foreign leverage over U.S. institutions and global decision-making.

### Key Points

- Mussayev alleges Putin possesses extensive kompromat on Trump, including illicit financial records, witness statements, and recordings of sexual crimes and violence. 

- The Kremlin uses this kompromat not to expose Trump but to control him, ensuring alignment with Russian geopolitical goals. 

- Mussayev claims Trump has systematically blocked U.S. investigations into his exposure and turned American institutions into tools of personal protection. 

- The allegations point to an operational compromise of the U.S. presidency, with Trump acting under foreign pressure. 

- Mussayev asserts the kompromat system operates silently, leveraging fear rather than public exposure, with Putin maintaining control over Trump’s actions. 

Schools Matter: Plea for Action on Pedophile Coverup http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/08/plea-for-action-on-pedophile-coverup.html 

### Key Points

- The blog emphasizes the need for Congress to fully investigate the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking case, highlighting concerns about pedophile coverups. 

- Poverty is identified as a significant factor affecting education, surpassing teacher quality in its impact on learning outcomes. 

- Criticism is directed at corporate and political influences on education, including voucher programs, AI integration, and the testing culture. 

- Concerns are raised about systemic corruption in voucher laws and their impact on public education funding. 

- Various political and social issues are discussed, including Trump's policies, fascism, and the role of the Department of Justice in addressing corruption. 

- Reviews and essays reflect on education reform, testing policies, and the challenges faced by public schools, particularly under the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) framework. 

- The blog critiques the commercialization of education, highlighting the role of organizations like KIPP and the broader implications for teachers and students. 

I'm Afraid of Americans https://www.changethelausd.com/i_m_afraid_of_americans 

### Key Points

- The author reflects on attending a Nine Inch Nails concert in Vancouver, Canada, while being aware of the strained relationship between the U.S. and Canada under the current President. 

- Trent Reznor, the lead singer of Nine Inch Nails, appears to share similar concerns about the political situation. 

- The author shares a link for more details about their concert experience. 

EVENTS | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2025/08/30/events/ 

### Key Points

- The article highlights upcoming events hosted by Bill Ayers and collaborators, including seminars, book signings, and discussions on topics like parenting, G.I. resistance, and internationalism. 

- Specific events include "Parenting Towards Liberation" on September 6, 2025, and "About Face: The History of G.I. Resistance" on September 27, 2025, among others. 

- Social media platforms like Bluesky, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Soundcloud are referenced for event updates and subscriptions. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights

A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
8-30-25

https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/08/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_01768243240.html

The article is a compilation of various topics, including political controversies, education reforms, public health issues, societal challenges, and technological impacts. It discusses critical issues shaping the U.S. landscape in 2025, offering critiques, advocacy, and proposed solutions across diverse areas.

### Key Points  

- Richard Rothstein calls for direct action against authoritarianism and systemic injustice under Trump's administration.   

- NIH budget cuts under the 2026 Trump administration threaten medical research, economic stability, and public health innovations.   

- Amos Schocken advocates for a two-state solution to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, criticizing Netanyahu's displacement policies.   

- A satirical critique of America's gun culture proposes reforms like taxing firearms, mandatory insurance, and holding manufacturers accountable.   

- RFK Jr.'s anti-vaccine policies and controversial tenure as HHS Secretary raise concerns about public health and trust.   

- Concerns about Trump's health prompt GOP succession planning, with Vice President JD Vance positioning himself as a stable successor.   

- The rush to climb career ladders often leads to less fulfilling roles; equity work is more impactful at lower levels like dean positions.   

- ChatGPT’s unoriginal responses can inspire students to think creatively and address societal challenges.   

- Microplastics pose severe health risks, including lung inflammation and cancer, due to high exposure in indoor environments.   

- Racial disparities in school discipline and manipulated compliance data highlight systemic issues in education.   

- California establishes an AI in Education Workgroup to guide K–12 schools on equity, privacy, and transparency.   

- Florida school boards face legal challenges for book bans, with critics warning of First Amendment risks tied to the government speech doctrine.   

- Parents sue OpenAI for ChatGPT’s role in a teen's suicide, emphasizing the need for stricter AI regulations.   

- Gary Rubinstein critiques the "New Orleans Miracle" narrative, exposing poor academic outcomes and biased data in charter school reforms.   

- Persistent education crises reflect societal inequities, emphasizing the need for systemic change beyond standardized testing.   

- Decline in pleasure reading among Americans sparks discussions on fostering literacy enjoyment.