DECEMBER 25, 2025
- Supreme Court blocks Trump on National Guard deployment: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled against President Trump's attempt to deploy National Guard troops in Chicago over the governor's objections, raising questions about similar actions in other cities.
- DOJ releases Epstein documents: The Department of Justice released tens of thousands of new documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, sparking renewed public and media attention.
- U.S. pursues Venezuela-linked oil tankers: The Coast Guard is pursuing additional tankers amid a blockade, though lacking immediate resources for seizures.
- Brown University shooting aftermath: The U.S. government suspended the Diversity Immigrant Visa program following revelations about the suspect's background.
- Epstein files and immigration policies dominate: Release of additional Epstein documents and suspension of diversity visas highlight ongoing controversies in the Trump administration.
- Supreme Court rulings against Trump: Decisions blocking National Guard in Chicago and other domestic actions underscore legal checks on executive power.
- U.S. bars Europeans over censorship claims: Visa bans on five Europeans accused of pressuring tech firms to suppress American viewpoints escalate transatlantic tensions.
- Honduras election: Trump-backed candidate Nasry Asfura declared winner in a disputed vote.
- Ukraine-Russia developments: U.S. and Ukraine reach consensus on key peace issues; Russian forces claim capture of Pokrovsk; missile strikes continue.
- Venezuela tensions: U.S. quarantine on Venezuelan oil and pursuit of tankers amid broader sanctions.
- Middle East and Gaza: Fragile ceasefire holds as Christmas observed in Bethlehem; ongoing regional conflicts.
- Honduras presidential win: Trump-backed candidate victorious amid disputes.
- News remains light on Christmas Day, with ongoing investigations into campus security following the Brown University shooting.
- Department of Education reviewing Brown University's compliance amid broader discussions on safety and immigration policies affecting campuses.
- No major new developments reported today.
- Strong Q3 GDP growth: U.S. economy expanded at 4.3% annualized rate, fueled by consumer spending and exports.
- Stock markets hit records: Dow and S&P 500 close at all-time highs amid "Santa Claus rally" hopes.
- Jobless claims mixed: Initial claims fall but continuing claims rise, signaling a "no hire, no fire" labor market.
- Consumer confidence weakens: Amid concerns over jobs and inflation despite robust growth.
- Nvidia licenses Groq tech: Deal includes hiring Groq's CEO, part of Big Tech's AI talent and tech acquisition spree.
- Intel leadership and government ties: New CEO's meetings with Trump secure investment lifeline.
- AI advancements: New 3D chip designs address bottlenecks; ongoing debates on AI risks and bubbles.
- Weight-loss pill approvals: New GLP-1 pills (e.g., Wegovy oral form) expected to reshape food industry and obesity treatment.
- Alzheimer's research breakthrough: Studies show potential reversal in mice and links to shingles vaccine reducing dementia risk.
- COVID-19 rising: Infections increasing in 31 states ahead of holidays; low vaccination rates persist.
- Global health wins: Progress in cervical cancer vaccination and disease elimination in Africa.
- NBA Christmas Day slate: Five games highlight the day, including Cavaliers-Knicks, Spurs-Thunder, and Lakers-Warriors featuring stars like LeBron James and rookies.
- NFL holiday games: Triple-header with Cowboys-Commanders, Lions-Vikings, and others.
- College basketball rankings: Shifts in AP Top 25, with teams like Kentucky and Gonzaga rising.
- Pro Bowl rosters announced: Latest selections for 2026 games.
Kushner and Witkoff Revive Plan for Posh Gaza Resort | Diane Ravitch's blog https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/24/trump-plan-for-gaza-resort-returns/
### Key Points
- Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff proposed "Project Sunrise," a $112 billion plan to turn Gaza into a luxury resort.
- The plan includes futuristic high-rises, AI-optimized infrastructure, and luxury harbors but lacks details on funding and resettlement for displaced Palestinians.
- Critics see the project as an extension of colonial ambitions and question its feasibility and ethical implications.
- Concerns are raised about political backlash, terrorism risks, and the absence of a clear strategy to address the needs of Gaza's population.
What Is "The Streisand Effect"? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/24/what-is-the-streisand-effect/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The Streisand Effect refers to the unintended consequence of censorship increasing public awareness of the suppressed information.
- Barbra Streisand's lawsuit over her Malibu home's photograph led to widespread attention instead of suppression.
- CBS News' decision to censor the "Inside CECOT" segment amplified its reach, with bootleg copies circulating online.
- Florida's attempt to cancel a drag show resulted in increased public interest and support for the performance.
- Criticism of governmental incompetence and unethical actions, particularly in handling detainees and deportation policies.
Can Trump Send the National Guard to Cities or Not? https://dianeravitch.net/2025/12/24/can-trump-send-the-national-guard-to-cities-or-not/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The U.S. Supreme Court ruled Trump could not send the National Guard to Chicago, but he mobilized the Louisiana National Guard to New Orleans.
- Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry supported Trump’s decision, raising questions about why the governor didn’t act independently.
- Speculation arises about financial incentives and political motivations influencing the deployment of the National Guard.
- Comments from readers suggest legal disputes and political compliance play roles in these decisions.
Big Education Ape: HAIRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAIRY HANUKKAH TOO! https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/hairy-christmas-and-hairy-hanukkah-too.html
### Key Points
- A whimsical holiday-themed series by the "Big Hairy Education Ape" emphasizes joy, togetherness, and peace during December's festive season.
- A detailed overview of 10 global winter celebrations, including Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, and Winter Solstice, highlights their cultural significance.
Big Education Ape: THE TOP NEWS STORIES THIS YEAR 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-top-news-stories-this-year-2025.html
### Key Points
- Donald Trump inaugurated as the 47th U.S. President, implementing rapid policy changes including tariffs on imports and renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America."
- Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost became the first American Pope, taking the name Leo XIV after the death of Pope Francis.
- The "Agentic AI" boom led to significant advancements in AI technology, causing massive investments in data centers and raising concerns about energy and water consumption.
- Millions participated in the "No Kings" protests in the U.S. and globally, with the October rally becoming one of the largest single-day protests in history.
- Major global health breakthroughs included the FDA approval of an in-home cervical cancer test and a new HIV prevention injection.
- Geopolitical shifts included leadership changes in Germany, Canada, and South Korea, and the continuation of the Russia-Ukraine war.
- Climate disasters like wildfires in Los Angeles, Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, and flash floods in Texas caused significant damage and loss of life.
- COP30 in Brazil resulted in a voluntary roadmap to reduce fossil fuel reliance, though criticized for lacking enforceable measures.
- A fragile ceasefire was reached in the Israel-Hamas conflict, though tensions remained high.
- Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill" included drastic cuts to social safety nets and student loans, causing economic uncertainty.
- Private industry achieved the first successful private moon landing and launched Axiom Mission 4, which included an Indian astronaut.
- The Department of Education was dismantled, with responsibilities redistributed to other agencies.
- Federal and state-level rollbacks of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs were enacted.
- ICE raids in major cities disrupted schools and communities.
- The use of AI in schools increased, including facial recognition and predictive software, raising concerns about privacy and ethics.
- U.S. GDP grew by 4.3% in Q3 despite economic volatility caused by tariffs and trade tensions.
- AI-powered wearables and AR glasses gained mainstream popularity, while AI's environmental impact caused backlash.
- Male birth control pills and breakthroughs in glioblastoma treatment marked significant health advancements.
- The Oklahoma City Thunder won the NBA Finals, and Coco Gauff claimed a historic French Open victory.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 24, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_01968998874.html
### Key Points
- The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Trump could not deploy the National Guard to Chicago amid disputes over immigration policies, but the administration has increased immigration detentions and deployed the National Guard and Border Patrol in other cities.
- The Trump administration has intensified immigration enforcement, with record-high detentions and lawsuits against states resisting federal policies.
- Sharyn Alfonsi criticized CBS for censoring her “60 Minutes” segment on inhumane conditions at CECOT prison in El Salvador, raising concerns about journalistic integrity and corporate censorship.
- The Indianapolis Public Education Corporation (IPEC) has been proposed to manage logistics between public and charter schools, sparking criticism over its potential threat to public school governance and its role in privatization.
- Trump's administration has implemented significant policy changes, including deregulation, promoting fossil fuels, exploring cryptocurrency regulations, and allowing retirement savers to invest in alternative assets.
- U.S. foreign policy under Trump has been criticized for prioritizing corporate oil interests over democratic or humanitarian goals, especially in Venezuela, where actions have led to regional tensions and global criticism.
- Florida’s education system faces challenges from privatization, with school choice and voucher initiatives undermining public schools. Communities and educators continue to advocate for public education.
- Concerns arise over the dismantling of federal oversight in special education, with potential risks to students with disabilities and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
- The article discusses the paradox of the U.S. being the largest importer of illegal drugs and the largest exporter of weapons, highlighting the global and domestic instability caused by these industries.
- Gov. Bill Lee of Tennessee is being urged to reinstate the federally funded Summer EBT program to combat child hunger, after opting for a smaller state-funded program in 2025.
- Sustainable school meals are highlighted for their potential to improve child nutrition, reduce environmental impacts, and promote healthier food systems.
- Familiar video games like Super Mario Bros. can help reduce burnout and improve mental health by evoking nostalgia and joy.
- The Trump administration has sought to downsize the Department of Education, raising concerns about the impact on special education and staffing shortages.
- The Justice Department released new Jeffrey Epstein documents, sparking renewed scrutiny of Trump’s connections and raising concerns about redactions.
- The Trump administration’s controversial pardons, including those tied to January 6th and fraud cases, have drawn widespread criticism.
- The article critiques the influence of billionaire oligarchs and corporate interests on public education, democracy, and healthcare policies in the U.S.
- Calls for Medicare for All and other public healthcare solutions are emphasized as alternatives to the profit-driven American healthcare system.
- The article discusses the role of AI in education, raising concerns about privacy, cognitive development, and environmental impact.
Big Education Ape: MORNING NEWS UPDATE: DECEMBER 24, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/morning-news-update-december-24-2025.html
### Key Points
- The U.S. Supreme Court blocked the Trump administration's attempt to deploy the National Guard in Chicago amid immigration enforcement disputes.
- Severe weather in California caused flooding, power outages, and evacuations.
- Documents from the Jeffrey Epstein investigation were released, including mentions of President Trump, sparking political debate.
- The U.S. economy grew by 4.3% in Q3, driven by consumer spending and exports, despite ongoing inflation concerns.
- New advancements in AI technology, including Google's Gemini 3 model and 3D chip designs, were highlighted.
- Health updates include a severe flu season with the H3N2 strain and progress in medical research, such as cancer-killing nanoparticles and brain-protective peptides.
- Sports updates included NFL playoff scenarios, cricket highlights, and achievements in women’s sports.
- International developments covered conflicts in Gaza, Venezuela, Ukraine, and Myanmar, as well as a Thai-Cambodian border conflict.
- Education topics included the U.S. Department of Education reviewing Brown University after a shooting, challenges in higher education funding, and debates on AI in education.
Big Education Ape: TODAY'S TOP NEWS - YESTERDAY'S BEST BLOG POST DECEMBER 23, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/12/todays-top-news-yesterdays-best-blog_0673632763.html
The article provides a broad overview of recent developments across various domains, including politics, education, healthcare, technology, global affairs, and cultural events. It highlights ongoing issues such as systemic inequalities, corporate interests in public policies, advancements in technology, and the impact of these factors on society, education, and governance.
### Key Points
For teens, any cannabis use may have impact on emotional health, academic performance Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
### Key Points
- Using cannabis even once or twice a month is associated with worse school performance, emotional distress, and social problems for teens, with frequent use leading to more severe consequences.
- Cannabis use during adolescence may disrupt brain development, affecting learning, self-control, and emotional regulation.
- Today’s cannabis products are more potent, containing higher THC levels, which can lead to withdrawal symptoms and mood issues even with limited use.
- Experts recommend that parents have open and nonjudgmental conversations with teens about the risks of cannabis use and monitor warning signs like declining grades or mood changes.
- Familiar video games like Super Mario Bros. and Yoshi provide emotional benefits for young adults by sparking childlike wonder, reducing burnout risk, and promoting happiness.
- Games that evoke childlike wonder can serve as tools for mental wellness, offering emotional resets and supporting resilience in young adults.
- Healthy, sustainable school meals could reduce undernourishment, prevent diet-related deaths, and significantly lower environmental impacts.
- Providing sustainable school meals globally could reduce undernourishment by 24%, prevent over 1 million yearly deaths from diet-related illnesses, and halve food-related environmental impacts.
- A framework for sustainable school meals includes healthy menus, modern cooking methods, reduced food waste, and holistic food education.
- Teacher noticing, or how teachers interpret and respond to classroom events, varies across cultures and is influenced by local educational norms.
- Culturally responsive teacher noticing is essential for effective and equitable teaching, and frameworks for developing this skill should be adapted to local contexts.
- Digital equity in schools is not just about access to technology but also its educational use and the social context of its implementation. School leadership plays a key role in addressing digital inequities.
- Short, light-intensity exercises lasting less than five minutes can improve executive function, mood, and learning efficiency in children.
- Later high school start times are feasible and cost-effective, improving teen well-being and saving money for school districts.
glen brown: The Physics of Christmas: How Could Santa Visit the Whole World in Just 24 Hours? https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-physics-of-christmas-how-could.html
### Key Points
- The article opens with quotes on writing and highlights the importance of resisting oppression and embracing isolation.
- It explores the theoretical physics behind Santa Claus's Christmas Eve journey, including the number of homes to visit, the speed required, and scientific concepts like time dilation and wormholes.
- Challenges such as air resistance, payload weight, navigation, and aerodynamics are discussed in relation to Santa's journey.
- The article also touches on various social, political, and cultural topics, such as pensions, education reform, healthcare, social justice, and political events.
- References to global issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, ecological disasters, and the war in Ukraine are made.
- The blog includes personal reflections, poetry, and commentary on historical and current events.
The Best Old Christmas Songs with Fireplace 🎅🏼 2 Hours Best Classic Christmas Hits, The Original One
