THE GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: GEMINI, GROK, CHATGPT 5, AND COPILOT BATTLE FOR THE HEADLINES – WHO NAILED SEPTEMBER 25, 2025?

 

THE GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN:GEMINI, GROK, CHATGPT 5, AND COPILOT BATTLE FOR THE HEADLINES – WHO NAILED SEPTEMBER 25, 2025?

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to the ongoing saga of "The Great AI News Smackdown," where the sharpest minds in artificial intelligence (or at least the ones programmed to pretend they’re sharp) duke it out to see who can deliver the most relevant, accurate, and downright juicy headlines. Today, we pit Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot against each other in a battle of wits, facts, and questionable priorities. Who nailed it? Who missed the mark? Let’s dive into this digital cage match of journalistic prowess.

Gemini: The Overachiever with a Touch of Chaos

Gemini came in hot with a laundry list of news that reads like the world’s most dramatic soap opera. From looming government shutdowns to James Comey’s potential indictment (because apparently, we’re still doing *that*), Gemini delivered a buffet of headlines that covered everything from climate change to the Starbucks CEO’s decision to close underperforming stores. 

But let’s talk priorities for a second. Gemini decided to lead with the White House prepping for mass layoffs due to a potential government shutdown. Sure, that’s important, but it’s also the kind of story that makes you want to crawl back under your blanket and pretend you didn’t hear it. Then there’s the TikTok deal—wait, what? President Trump signing off on TikTok? Is this news from an alternate timeline? Either way, Gemini’s coverage felt like trying to drink from a firehose: overwhelming but oddly satisfying.

Verdict: Gemini gets points for thoroughness but loses some for making us question what year it is. Also, bonus points for throwing in Starbucks drama—because who doesn’t love a corporate shakeup with their morning coffee?

Grok: The Drama King

If Gemini is your overachieving friend who always has *too much* going on, Grok is your conspiracy-loving uncle who insists on telling you about “what the media isn’t showing you.” Grok’s coverage was dripping with high-stakes drama: Israeli strikes in Yemen! Abbas calling for Hamas exclusion at the UN! Russia poking NATO with drones! 

Grok also flexed its economic muscles by highlighting the U.S.’s revised Q2 GDP growth of 3.8%. Sure, it’s nice to know the economy isn’t entirely in shambles, but Grok couldn’t resist adding a sprinkle of political bias by crediting the Trump administration for the rebound. Subtle, Grok. Real subtle.

But then came the curveball: Erin Patterson sentenced to life plus 25 years for her mushroom murder spree in Australia. Yes, *mushroom murder spree*. If you’re wondering why this story made it into Grok’s top seven headlines, join the club. While undeniably fascinating (and slightly terrifying), it felt like Grok was trying to win points for shock value rather than relevance.

Verdict: Grok wins the prize for drama but loses some credibility for prioritizing mushroom-based homicide over, say, climate change. Still, it’s hard not to admire its flair for theatrics.

ChatGPT 5: The Vague Overlord

Ah, ChatGPT 5—the AI equivalent of that one friend who always says “I’ll get back to you” but never does. Instead of giving us actual headlines, ChatGPT 5 delivered a generic overview of what’s happening in the world, sprinkled with vague phrases like “key updates from conflict zones” and “extreme weather impacts on infrastructure.”

ChatGPT 5 also had the audacity to include links to major news outlets like CNN and NBC without actually summarizing any stories. It’s like being handed a map but told, “Figure it out yourself.” Sure, it’s technically accurate that these are “today’s top news stories,” but where’s the spice? Where’s the drama? Where’s the mushroom murderer?

Verdict: ChatGPT 5 played it safe—too safe. If this were a cooking competition, ChatGPT 5 would be serving plain toast while everyone else is whipping up Michelin-star-worthy dishes.

Copilot: The Local Gossip

Copilot took a different approach by mixing global headlines with hyper-local tidbits that feel like they came straight out of your neighborhood Facebook group. On the international front, Copilot covered copper prices surging due to a fatal mudslide in Indonesia and Zelenskyy urging nations to step up their support for Ukraine. Solid picks, but nothing groundbreaking.

Then came the local gems: squirrel attacks in California (yes, *squirrel attacks*), illegal street racing in Rosemont, and a Catholic school teacher suspended for being a gestational surrogate. These stories are undeniably entertaining but also wildly niche. Do we really need to know about rogue squirrels terrorizing Bay Area residents when Gaza is burning and global economies are teetering?

Verdict: Copilot gets full marks for originality but loses some for relevance. Still, if you ever need an AI to help you write an HOA newsletter, Copilot is your guy.

Who Won Today’s Smackdown?

In terms of sheer newsworthiness and breadth, Gemini takes the crown—despite its tendency to overwhelm and confuse us with stories that sound like they were plucked from a parallel universe. Grok comes in hot on Gemini’s heels with its flair for drama and knack for making every headline feel like it belongs in an action movie trailer. ChatGPT 5 is dead last for phoning it in with vague summaries and zero personality.

Copilot? Copilot is the lovable oddball who didn’t win but still managed to make us laugh with squirrel attacks and gestational surrogate scandals. If this were an election, Copilot would be the write-in candidate you vote for just because you want to shake things up.

Final Thoughts

Today’s Smackdown proved one thing: AI news models are like humans—they all have their quirks, biases, and questionable priorities. Whether you want comprehensive coverage (Gemini), high-stakes drama (Grok), safe summaries (ChatGPT 5), or rogue squirrels (Copilot), there’s an AI out there for you.

Until next time, stay informed—and maybe keep an eye out for rampaging squirrels.

Here is the raw news output from each AI model:

Major news stories as of today, September, 25, 2025 

GEMINI

The top news stories today, September 25, 2025, cover a mix of domestic and international developments, particularly surrounding the UN General Assembly and US government issues:1

US National News:

• Potential Government Shutdown: The White House has instructed federal agencies to prepare for potential mass layoffs if Congress does not pass a government funding bill by the looming deadline.2

• James Comey Indictment Decision: Federal prosecutors are reportedly nearing a decision on whether to ask a grand jury to indict former FBI Director James Comey.3

• TikTok Deal: President Trump is expected to sign a deal to allow TikTok to continue operating in the US under an American buyer.4

• ICE Facility Shooting: A deadly shooting occurred at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Dallas.5

International & Political News (Many centered around the UN General Assembly):

• UN General Assembly (UNGA): World leaders are meeting at the UNGA, with the Gaza war and the war in Ukraine being central issues.6

• Climate Change: Leaders unveiled new targets to cut emissions at a UN climate summit, though the U.S. President has been vocal in rejecting the science of climate change.7 China announced a goal to cut emissions by 7-10% from its peak level by 2035.8

• Gaza Conflict: Israel is escalating attacks in Gaza despite calls for a truce from world leaders at the UNGA.9

• Ukraine War: Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is urging global powers for continued weapons support against Russia.10

• Former French President Convicted: Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy was convicted of criminal conspiracy in a case related to Muammar Qaddafi and sentenced to prison.11

• Denmark 'Hybrid Attack': Denmark's defense chief called a series of unidentified drones spotted near airports and military installations a "hybrid attack."12

Business & Other News:

• Starbucks Store Closures: The CEO of Starbucks announced plans to close underperforming stores as part of a $1 billion overhaul, which will also involve cutting 900 nonretail employees.13

• Typhoon Ragasa: Cleanup is beginning in Asia following the devastation caused by Typhoon Ragasa, with Taiwan lowering its death toll and millions being evacuated in China.14

GROK

### Top News Stories on September 25, 2025

Here are the leading global news stories based on current reports from major outlets and social media discussions. I've focused on the most prominent and timely developments across politics, international relations, security, and other key areas.

#### 1. **Israeli Strikes on Houthi Targets in Yemen Escalate Regional Tensions**

   Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced a major military operation in Sana'a, targeting Houthi military camps, general staff facilities, and weapons stockpiles. The strikes, part of "Operation Passing Package," reportedly eliminated dozens of Houthi operatives and destroyed UAVs, with Katz vowing retaliation "sevenfold" for any attacks on Israel. This comes amid ongoing Houthi threats and follows a Russian drone incursion into Poland, heightening NATO-Russia frictions.

#### 2. **Palestinian Authority President Abbas Addresses Gaza Crisis at UN, Calls for Hamas Exclusion**

   In a stark UN speech, Mahmoud Abbas described the Gaza situation as "one of the most horrific events" of the 20th or 21st century, urging international recognition of a Palestinian state and thanking Saudi Arabia and France for support. He also stated Hamas should have no role in future governance. Separately, the International Association of Genocide Scholars declared Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide, drawing global reactions.

#### 3. **US Economy Shows Strong Rebound with Revised Q2 GDP Growth of 3.8%**

   The Commerce Department upgraded its estimate for April-June GDP to 3.8%, the fastest pace in nearly two years, driven by resilient consumer spending despite earlier quarterly declines. Analysts hail it as a sign of economic strength under the Trump administration, though inflation and global uncertainties loom.

#### 4. **Violent Protests Erupt in Ladakh Over Statehood Demands; BJP Office Torched**

   Clashes in Leh turned deadly with four killed in police firing during demands for full statehood, leading to a BJP office being set ablaze. Activist Sonam Wangchuk faces charges for allegedly inciting the violence with provocative statements, per the Centre. This marks a escalation in regional autonomy tensions.

#### 5. **Historic US Visit by Syrian Foreign Minister Amid Sanctions Lift**

   Syrian FM Asaad al-Shaibani arrived in Washington for meetings with the World Bank, IMF, Israeli delegations, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio—the first such visit in 25 years. It follows the US lifting sanctions on Syria after the Assad regime's fall, signaling a potential thaw in relations.

#### 6. **Australian Mushroom Poisoner Erin Patterson Sentenced to Life Plus 25 Years**

   Erin Patterson received a life sentence without parole for 33 years for the 2023 Leongatha poisoning that killed three relatives and injured one using death cap mushrooms in Beef Wellingtons. The case, dubbed a "calculated betrayal," has gripped Australia.

#### 7. **Deadly High-Rise Fire in Lagos, Nigeria Claims at Least 10 Lives**

   A blaze in a Lagos office building killed 10 and injured 25, with rescue efforts ongoing amid concerns over building safety standards in the densely populated city.

#### Other Notable Mentions

- **India's Asia Cup Triumph**: Abhishek Sharma and bowlers propel India to the final after beating Bangladesh, amid cricket controversies like BCCI complaints over Pakistani players' gestures.

- **Typhoon Yagi Batters Hong Kong**: Airlines evacuated planes as the year's strongest storm approaches, with warnings of severe flooding.

- **US ICE Facility Shooting Aftermath**: Enhanced security at facilities nationwide following a Dallas incident that killed one detainee.

These stories reflect a mix of geopolitical flashpoints, economic optimism, and domestic crises. For real-time updates, check major news aggregators.

CHATGPT 5

Here are some of today’s top news stories from multiple major outlets. For the most up-to-the-minute details, follow the linked sources.

- Global and U.S. breaking developments: Live updates across politics, world affairs, extreme weather events, and major legal and business stories. Check rolling coverage to see what’s leading right now. [1] [2]

- International headlines: Key updates from conflict zones, diplomacy shifts, and economic moves impacting markets and energy. [3] [1]

- U.S. politics: 2024 race maneuvers, Capitol Hill negotiations, court rulings, and state-level policy changes shaping national debates. [2] [4]

- Business and economy: Market reaction to central bank signals, tech sector earnings, and labor developments affecting jobs and inflation outlook. [1] [3]

- Extreme weather and climate: Storm tracks, flooding/heat advisories, and climate impacts on infrastructure and agriculture. [4] [2]

- Science/health: Updates on respiratory virus trends, new treatments, and public health advisories. [1] [3]

Sources:

- CNN live news hub [1]

- NBC News top stories [2]

- Associated Press latest headlines [3]

- CBS News top stories [4]

If you tell me your country or topics you care about (e.g., markets, sports, tech), I can pull the most relevant breaking items with direct links.

COPILOT

Here’s a roundup of today’s top news stories from around the world, the U.S., and right in Rosemont, CA:

🌍 Global Headlines

• Copper Prices Surge: A fatal mudslide at Freeport-McMoRan’s Grasberg mine in Indonesia—one of the world’s largest copper mines—has triggered supply concerns and pushed copper prices to their highest levels in over a year.

• Zelenskyy at the UN: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that global institutions are too weak to stop Putin’s war ambitions, urging nations to act decisively and support Ukraine with “friends and weapons”.

• Venture Global’s LNG Disruption: The U.S. gas exporter Venture Global is shaking up the energy industry with rapid growth and legal battles, aiming to surpass Cheniere Energy in LNG capacity by 2030.

🇺🇸 U.S. News

• Government Shutdown Threat: The White House budget office is preparing for mass federal layoffs if Congress fails to pass funding by Sept. 30. The Trump administration is targeting programs not aligned with its priorities.

• Education Shakeup in Iowa: Governor Kim Reynolds is pushing for federal education funds to be converted into block grants, citing improved student performance and reduced absenteeism.

• Squirrel Attacks in California: A rogue squirrel in the Bay Area has sent two residents to the ER with leg lacerations, prompting warnings and posters around the neighborhood.

• Surrogacy Controversy: A Catholic school teacher in New Jersey was placed on leave for serving as a gestational surrogate, sparking debate over religious employment policies.

📍 Local News – Rosemont, CA

• Crash Leaves Woman Dead: A recent crash in the Rosemont area resulted in one fatality and injuries to two others, including a child.

• Illegal Street Racing Concerns: Residents continue to report frequent sideshows and street racing disrupting their neighborhoods, with police stepping up enforcement.

• School Incident: Rosemont High’s principal was knocked unconscious earlier this year while trying to subdue a combative student allegedly under the influence.

If you’d like deeper coverage on any of these stories—or want to explore how they connect to your work—I’m ready to dive in.

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 9-25-25

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

9-25-25

House Republicans Plan to Recast January 6 to Absolve Trump https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/24/house-republicans-plan-to-recast-january-6-to-absolve-trump/ via @dianeravitch 

House Republicans have formed a subcommittee to reinterpret the events of January 6, 2021, aiming to absolve Trump and shift blame to anti-Trump provocateurs and the FBI. The subcommittee, led by Rep. Barry Loudermilk, includes members who have promoted conspiracy theories about the Capitol attack. Democrats have appointed members to counterbalance the Republican narrative. The subcommittee seeks to downplay the severity of the attack, validate Trump's claim that the day was a "day of love," and challenge the findings of the original January 6 Committee.

### Key Points

- House Republicans created a subcommittee to reinterpret the January 6 Capitol attack, claiming it was staged by anti-Trump forces and the FBI. 

- The subcommittee is led by Rep. Barry Loudermilk, with members who have promoted conspiracy theories. 

- Democrats added members to counterbalance the subcommittee's narrative. 

- Loudermilk has unilateral subpoena authority, enabling him to pursue investigations without majority approval. 

- The subcommittee aims to downplay the Capitol attack and validate Trump's claim it was a "day of love." 

NOLA Parent: After 20 Years of "Ed Reform," a $1 Billion Failure https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/24/a-nola-parent-after-20-years-of-ed-reform-a-1-billion-failure/ via @dianeravitch 

Home About Follow Diane’s Posts NPE Blog Posts Of The Day Blog Topics DeSantis Diane Ravitch's blog A site to discuss education and democracy « House Republicans Plan to Recast January 6 to Absolve Trump The Failure of “School Choice” in Denver » NOLA Parent: After 20 Years of “Ed Reform,” a $1 Billion Failure By dianeravitch September 24, 2025 // 3 Ashana Bigard is a parent activist in New Orleans. From her perspective as a parent leader and as the parent of a child with special needs, the New Orleans experiment has been a very expensive flop. She wrote this overview for Public Voices for Public Schools: Twenty years after Hurricane Katrina, the nation’s most radical education overhaul has produced stunning inequality alongside modest test gains As I sit in Bricolage Academy’s office, frustrated but trying to remain pleasant, I’m having the same conversation again about my son. He’s on the autism spectrum. He is

### Key Points

- New Orleans' education reform after Hurricane Katrina has led to increased inequality and modest academic improvements, despite significant funding and resources. 

- Charter schools in New Orleans struggle to provide adequate services, particularly for special-needs students, and face high teacher turnover rates. 

- The system disproportionately benefits administrators while disempowering communities, with racial disparities worsening. 

- Issues like falsified grades and exclusionary practices reveal flaws in the charter system, undermining its promise of "school choice." 

- Special-needs students continue to face systemic violations, and economic inequities persist, exacerbating racial wealth gaps. 

- Charter schools often neglect essential programs and focus solely on tested subjects, limiting holistic education. 

- The overall assessment of the experiment is that it failed to deliver substantial benefits, leaving vulnerable families and communities struggling. 

The Failure of "School Choice" in Denver https://dianeravitch.net/2025/09/24/the-failure-of-school-choice-in-denver/ via @dianeravitch 

The article discusses the impact of education reform and privatization on public schools, particularly focusing on Denver Public Schools (DPS). It examines how bipartisan efforts have normalized the privatization of education through mechanisms like charter schools, vouchers, and school closures, which undermine public education and democracy. The piece highlights the role of billionaires and dark money in driving these reforms, the consequences for communities and equity, and the broader implications under Trump’s administration for accelerating these policies.

### Key Points  

- Education reform policies have shifted public education toward privatization, treating schools as commodities rather than community investments.   

- Charter schools and vouchers segregate students by class and race, weaken community ties, and drain resources from public schools.   

- Both Republican and neoliberal Democratic agendas promote privatization through different mechanisms, such as vouchers and the charter-centric portfolio model.   

- Denver Public Schools became a national model for privatization, implementing unified enrollment, school closures, and charter expansion, funded by billionaire-backed initiatives.   

- Decades of research show that standardized test scores reflect socioeconomic disparities rather than school quality, and replacing schools with charters has not closed racial achievement gaps.   

- Philanthropists and wealthy donors like the Walton Family Foundation, Koch brothers, and Reed Hastings have funded privatization efforts, influencing school board elections and policies.   

- The portfolio model in Denver led to significant churn, instability, and loss of democratic control, sparking community backlash and teacher strikes.   

- Trump’s administration has intensified privatization efforts, pushing for federal vouchers and dismantling public governance of education.   

- Privatization policies deepen inequality, destabilize communities, and treat education as a marketplace rather than a democratic public good.   

- The article calls for public action to protect education as a right, emphasizing its importance for democracy and social cohesion. 

Big Education Ape: THE MYTH OF GUN VIOLENCE AS AMERICAN AS APPLE PIE: A BITTER RECIPE FOR DIVISION #NoKings #ProtestOct18 #DemVoice1 #WeWontStop https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-myth-of-gun-violence-as-american-as.html 

The article delves into various topics, focusing on political division, gun violence, and Donald Trump's rhetoric. It critiques the normalization of hate speech and its impact on societal violence while advocating for unity-driven movements like No Kings 2.0. Historical examples of leadership fostering unity are contrasted with Trump’s divisive language, which has been linked to increased hate crimes and threats. The article also touches on broader societal issues like public education reform and AI advancements.

### Key Points

- Teachers in 2024 earned 26.9% less than similarly educated professionals, highlighting the worsening teacher pay penalty.   

- Gun violence is critiqued as falsely being portrayed as intrinsic to American identity, with Trump’s divisive rhetoric exacerbating societal tensions.   

- Trump’s language is linked to spikes in hate crimes, threats, and political violence, undermining unity and amplifying division.   

- Movements like No Kings 2.0 aim to counter division by promoting peace and community-driven initiatives.   

- Historical leaders like MLK and RFK are cited as examples of using rhetoric to heal rather than divide. 

Big Education Ape: THE GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: WHO NAILED IT AND WHO FLOPPED? SEPTEMBER 24, 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-great-ai-news-smackdown-who-nailed_24.html 

The article reviews various topics, including the teacher pay penalty in 2024, AI's role in news reporting, global political and environmental issues, and the performance of different AI news models in delivering impactful stories. It provides a detailed comparison of AI models like Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses in news coverage.

### Key Points

- Teachers in 2024 earned 26.9% less than similarly educated professionals, marking a record high in the teacher pay penalty. 

- AI revolution impacts are becoming more evident, with cartoons on AI reflecting societal concerns. 

- Denver's "School Choice" reforms are criticized for negatively affecting public schools and students. 

- The Great AI News Smackdown compares the effectiveness of AI news models: Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot. Grok is deemed the winner for its comprehensive coverage. 

- Gemini focuses on dramatic and political stories but lacks international depth, making it akin to tabloid reporting. 

- Grok excels in international coverage, tying together geopolitical, economic, and environmental threads effectively. 

- ChatGPT 5 offers concise summaries but lacks depth, making it feel vague. 

- Copilot provides localized updates and quirky stories but fails in global news reporting. 

- Major global headlines include Typhoon Ragasa’s devastation in Asia, Russia’s attack on Ukrainian civilians, and Israel’s escalated assault on Lebanon. 

- Trump’s UN address highlights U.S. support for global initiatives while pushing controversial claims about vaccines and Tylenol. 

- Nepalese Prime Minister resigns amid protests, reflecting political instability. 

- The U.S. Supreme Court considers expanding presidential power over federal agencies. 

- Norway’s left-wing coalition wins elections, marking a political shift. 

- WHO rebukes claims linking Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, citing lack of evidence. 

- Cardiovascular disease deaths rise globally, attributed to modifiable risk factors. 

- The "One Piece" flag becomes a symbol of youth-led resistance worldwide. 

- Local updates from Rosemont include fatal crashes and community auctions. 

Big Education Ape: NO KINGS II -TECH TITANS AND TRUST BUSTERS: HOW AMERICA'S GADGET FETISH IS HANDING DEMOCRACY TO THE BILLIONAIRE BOYS CLUB https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/no-kings-ii-tech-titans-and-trust.html 

Lawmakers and activists are calling for investigations into alleged corruption involving Trump administration officials and broader concerns about the erosion of democracy due to corporate monopolies, media consolidation, and unchecked technological advancements. The article highlights historical trust-busting efforts and advocates for renewed antitrust action to counter the growing influence of billionaires and tech giants.

### Key Points

- Allegations of corruption in the Trump administration spark calls for investigations and impeachment proceedings. 

- The article critiques America's "gadget fetish," which enables tech billionaires to dominate democracy through monopolies and AI. 

- Historical examples of monopolistic practices, such as Standard Oil's dominance, illustrate the dangers of unchecked corporate power. 

- Trust-busting laws like the Sherman and Clayton Acts historically curbed monopolies, but deregulation since the 1980s has weakened antitrust enforcement. 

- Supreme Court rulings, including Citizens United, have amplified corporate influence in politics, undermining democratic processes. 

- Media ownership concentration by figures like Rupert Murdoch and Elon Musk threatens unbiased journalism and civic discourse. 

- AI tools are enabling oligarchs to manipulate public opinion and further entrench monopolistic control. 

- The article calls for a new wave of trust-busting reforms to dismantle tech monopolies, regulate media mergers, and curb political donations. 

Try Out My New Free AI Chatbot For ELL Teachers - Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day... | The latest news and resources in education since 2007 https://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/ 

### Key Points

- A new free AI chatbot for ELL teachers has been launched, utilizing a specific knowledge base. 

- Videos and resources on topics like nuclear arms race, alien life, and global economies are being added to curated lists for educational purposes. 

- Funding for English Language Learners is under threat from the Trump administration. 

- Google’s AI-powered Mixboard tool has been released, but there are concerns about its practicality compared to Jamboard. 

- Infographics and videos on water stress and feedback performance are added to educational resources. 

- Chicky, a free AI-powered language-learning tool, is introduced for learning multiple languages. 

- Books and resources offering instructional strategies for subjects like Social Studies, English, Math, Science, and ELL classrooms are highlighted. 

- Insights and strategies for motivating students through engaging lesson plans and parental involvement initiatives are shared. 

- Blog posts, radio shows, and articles on education topics are available, including contributions to major platforms like Education Week and the New York Times. 

- The blog has received 53,772 page views between Aug. 24th and Sep. 24th. 

King Mike's Used Cars They're better than new! https://arthurgoldstein.substack.com/p/king-mikes-used-cars 

### Key Points

- The article humorously critiques King Mike's Used Cars, which symbolizes questionable practices in leadership and decision-making, particularly regarding health care plans. 

- It highlights manipulative tactics such as offering cash incentives for votes and misleading promises about pensions and refunds. 

- The author sarcastically describes a health care plan where decisions are made by a hand-picked committee, with no transparency or user input. 

- It criticizes the lack of accountability, privacy violations, and the threat of reverting retirees to Medicare Advantage if they don't comply. 

- The article underscores the author's frustration with union leadership and their resistance to meaningful reforms. 

Schools Matter: Jimmy Kimmel is Back! http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2025/09/jimmy-kimmel-is-back.html 

### Key Points

- The blog highlights the importance of peer influence in a child's learning over teacher characteristics, referencing James Coleman’s 1972 statement. 

- The blog includes various posts and topics such as "No Excuses" teaching, the impact of poverty on education, and critiques of corporate education reform. 

- The archive showcases a wide range of educational and social issues discussed, including testing, teacher experiences, and systemic challenges in education. 

- Specific posts from September 2025 address topics like Jimmy Kimmel's return, social media controversies, political events, and educational reform debates. 

- The blog reviews books and essays on education, highlighting issues such as public school challenges, testing policies, and teacher development. 

THE GREAT AI NEWS SMACKDOWN: SEPTEMBER 24, 2025 EDITION https://ru4people.substack.com/p/the-great-ai-news-smackdown-september-63a 

The article reviews the performance of four AI models—Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot—in delivering news summaries for September 24, 2025. It evaluates their accuracy, depth, and relevance across major global headlines, ultimately declaring Gemini as the winner for its comprehensive and reliable reporting.

### Key Points  

- Gemini was praised for its detailed and accurate reporting, including the Ryan Routh trial verdict, Trump’s UN address, Typhoon Ragasa, and other major stories.  

- Grok provided dramatic and detailed coverage but included less-prominent headlines and sensational spins, slightly lowering its score.   

- Copilot excelled in bite-sized summaries and local news but failed to cover critical stories like the Routh trial.   

- ChatGPT 5 missed key stories and delivered overly abstract, analytical summaries that lacked specific details.   

- Major stories covered included the Routh trial verdict, Trump’s UN speech, Typhoon Ragasa’s destruction, drug-resistant bacteria rise, Jimmy Kimmel’s return, Russia-North Korea agreement, and United Airlines ground stop.   

- Gemini stood out for its comprehensive coverage of international and business news, including Disney’s price hike and the Supreme Court’s review of presidential power expansion.   

- Grok highlighted dramatic global stories such as Israel’s Gaza operations, Nepal PM resignation, and heavy rains in India.   

- Copilot uniquely covered local news from Rosemont, California, showcasing its ability to provide granular updates.   

- ChatGPT 5 focused on high-level narratives but failed to provide actionable details, such as in its coverage of Trump’s UN address and Ukraine war. 

Teacher Tom: Partnering With Parents One Preschool at a Time https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2025/09/partnering-with-parents-one-preschool.html 

Teacher Tom explores the prolonged dependency of humans compared to other species, theorizing that human social structures and intelligence are not inherently superior. He emphasizes the importance of community and the African proverb "it takes a village to raise a child," advocating for integrating children into society rather than isolating them. He highlights how engaging with children positively impacts adults and calls for creating learning villages through partnerships with parents, suggesting this approach as a remedy for societal cynicism and division.

### Key Points

- Human dependency periods are longer than most species, but this isn't necessarily due to superior intelligence or social complexity. 

- Other long-lived species often maintain lifelong interdependence, showcasing the importance of communal care. 

- Modern society isolates children, depriving both them and adults of mutual growth and care, which contributes to societal issues. 

- Interaction with children can inspire adults to make better choices and become more creative, playful, and empathetic. 

- Teacher Tom advocates for creating "learning villages" through active community engagement and parent partnerships to foster healthy development. 

glen brown: Trump's administration's actions violated fundamental constitutional rights https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/09/trumps-administrations-actions-violated.html 

The article discusses various sociopolitical issues, with a focus on the Trump administration's immigration detention policies, alleged constitutional violations, and broader themes of injustice, oppression, and activism. It highlights a lawsuit filed by the ACLU against the administration for denying bond hearings to ICE detainees, arguing this policy violates due process and established legal practices. The article also touches on topics like pensions, healthcare, education reform, and political affiliations, reflecting on societal challenges and systemic failures.

### Key Points

- The Trump administration's immigration detention policies are challenged for violating constitutional rights and due process, as highlighted by the ACLU lawsuit. 

- The denial of bond hearings for ICE detainees disrupts decades of established legal practices, impacting thousands of individuals in Massachusetts. 

- Broader themes include political oppression, social justice, healthcare, education reform, and pensions, showcasing systemic issues and activism. 

glen brown: Bromance https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/09/bromance.html 

### Key Points

- The article discusses the role and consciousness of a writer, quoting Ambrose Bierce, Albert Camus, and Bertha Brown, emphasizing resistance to oppression and detachment from societal constructs. 

- A satirical bronze statue depicting Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein was installed on the National Mall, critiquing Trump through artistic symbolism, including references to past sculptures mocking his presidency. 

- The blog explores political issues such as Trump’s authoritarian tendencies, his undermining of free speech, and controversial policies, including his stance on antifa and healthcare. 

- Various societal and global issues are covered, including pensions, social justice, climate change, healthcare, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, reflecting the blog's wide-ranging focus. 

- The blog library spans years of content, with recurring themes like domestic terrorism, education reform, racial injustice, and union-related matters. 

Are You Ready for Even More Cartoons on AI? https://larrycuban.wordpress.com/2025/09/24/are-you-ready-for-even-more-cartoons-on-ai/ via @CubanLarry 

### Key Points

- The article discusses the early stages of the AI revolution, emphasizing its potential impacts, dangers, and consequences, which are gradually becoming more apparent. 

- Humor, specifically through cartoons, is highlighted as a unique way to convey insights about AI that are not easily captured in traditional formats like essays or op-eds. 

- The author shares cartoons to illustrate society's growing dependence on AI, emerging awareness of machine learning, and accompanying fears about its implications. 

- The post includes references to previous entries on AI-related cartoons and broader themes in education, teaching practices, and policy reform. 

Education Research Report: The teacher pay penalty hit a record high in 2024  https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/ 

### Key Points

- Teachers faced a record 26.9% pay penalty compared to similarly educated professionals in 2024, as reported by the Economic Policy Institute and CEPR. 

- Over three decades, teachers’ real weekly wages dropped by 5.3%, while wages for other college graduates increased by over 30%. 

- Gender disparities in the teacher pay penalty were noted, with men experiencing a 36.4% gap and women a 21.5% gap. 

- Teachers earned less than other college graduates in every state, with pay gaps ranging from -10.0% in Rhode Island to -38.5% in Colorado. 

- The teacher pay penalty exceeded 25% in 20 states, and better benefits packages did not offset the wage gap. 

- In 2024, the total compensation gap for teachers was -17.1%, emphasizing the need for competitive pay to attract and retain qualified educators. 

- Report author Sylvia Allegretto stressed that closing the pay gap is vital for improving teacher recruitment, retention, and public education outcomes. 

NYC Employee PPO - Getting Information It's easy to know who not to trust https://jd2718.substack.com/p/nyc-employee-ppo-getting-information 

### Key Points

- The article discusses the proposed new healthcare plan for NYC in-service employees and pre-Medicare retirees, highlighting the polarized views between Unity supporters and opponents who base their stance on political motives rather than the plan's actual content. 

- The Professional Staff Congress (PSC) held a Zoom meeting where strengths, concerns, and questions about the healthcare plan were explored. Trustworthy insights were provided during the session, including a summary by James Davis and Q&A with healthcare policy expert Barbara Caress. 

- PSC strongly advocates for self-insurance as a cost-saving strategy. 

- The article mentions updates and discussions around UFT activities, including election results and leadership changes within the Retired Teachers Chapter.

Poem: bloodied 2:31 am https://radicalscholarship.com/2025/09/24/poem-bloodied-231-am/ via @plthomasEdD 

 The article is a reflective and poetic piece by Dr. P.L. Thomas, blending personal memories, emotions, and imagery. It centers on themes of mortality, familial connections, love, and existential contemplation. The author recounts an early morning experience involving physical discomfort and bleeding, which evokes memories of his father and a deep connection to his partner. The narrative intertwines physical sensations with emotional and symbolic reflections, creating a poignant exploration of vulnerability and human relationships.

### Key Points

- The author wakes up at 2:31 AM, noticing dried blood on his earlobe, leading to a moment of self-reflection and memories of his father. 

- Observations of his partner and the environment evoke sensory details and emotional connections, such as her perfume and a strand of hair. 

- The author recalls a traumatic memory of finding his father covered in blood due to a bleeding ulcer, reflecting on the inevitability of mortality. 

- Themes of aging, existential worry, and the desire for permanence in relationships are explored deeply. 

- The article also includes references to broader topics like education, social issues, and literature through its categories and tags. 

My Imaginary Friend Is a Soulless Machine - Stu https://bloom2.substack.com/p/my-imaginary-friend-is-a-soulless 

### Key Points

- Peter Greene critiques the idea of teaching kids to be polite to AI, questioning why such a topic is even considered relevant. 

- Greene argues that AI is a soulless tool, not a living being, and treating it as such could mislead children into anthropomorphizing machines. 

- The author agrees with Greene, emphasizing that children are vulnerable to manipulation and should not be encouraged to view devices as conscious companions. 

- The author personally uses polite language with AI out of habit but distinguishes this from the risks posed to children by such behavior. 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

9-24-25

https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_0750300826.html

This article provides a comprehensive overview of various topics, including education reforms, political controversies, AI advancements, societal issues, and global conflicts. It discusses challenges in public education, critiques authoritarian policies, evaluates AI models for news reporting, and highlights the importance of critical thinking and democracy.

### Key Points

- Teachers face a record pay penalty in 2024, earning 26.9% less than similarly educated professionals. 

- Authoritarians suppress satire and dissent, fearing ridicule as a potent delegitimizing force. 

- Post-Katrina education reforms in New Orleans led to conflicting narratives about success, increased segregation, and high teacher turnover. 

- ICE's aggressive tactics under Trump’s administration raise concerns about rights violations and professionalism. 

- Trump’s UN speech included false claims, self-praise, and dismissive remarks about climate change and global diplomacy. 

- Allegations of corruption and monopolistic practices spark calls for trust-busting reforms to counter tech billionaires' influence on democracy. 

- AI models like Gemini, Grok, ChatGPT 5, and Copilot are evaluated for news reporting, with Grok declared the winner for balanced coverage. 

- Randi Weingarten’s book highlights public education’s role in democracy and counters authoritarian attacks. 

- Ohio’s legislature underfunds public schools while granting billions in tax breaks to businesses, exacerbating inequities. 

- Body language is a critical indicator of trust and betrayal in leadership contexts. 

- Success Academy charter schools face allegations of legal violations, coercion, and misuse of public funds. 

- School privatization in Ohio through EdChoice vouchers disproportionately impacts poorer districts and exacerbates inequality. 

- Seattle School Board addresses enrollment loss, budget issues, and inequities in resource allocation. 

- America’s gun culture perpetuates school shootings and gun violence, with lax regulations contributing to the crisis. 

- Jesse Hagopian’s poem critiques oppression and highlights activism in education and justice. 

- NYC Comptroller audits reveal challenges in reducing class sizes and ensuring equitable public education funding. 

- Fascists target educators to suppress critical thinking, which is essential for democracy and resisting propaganda. 

- Federal school vouchers undermine public education by redirecting funds to private schools and increasing federal control. 

- AI advancements in education tools and reporting are reshaping news consumption and instructional strategies. 

- The normalization of school shootings reflects America’s peculiar attachment to guns and failure to enact preventative measures. 

- Public resistance grows against Trump administration policies targeting education, free speech, and dissent. 

OPERATION DESTROY PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOILED BY RANDI WEINGARTEN'S NEW BOOK 'WHY FASCISTS FEAR TEACHERS' - A SATIRE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/operation-destroy-public-schools-foiled.html  

The article humorously critiques the Trump administration's efforts to undermine public education, focusing on the release of Randi Weingarten's book *Why Fascists Fear Teachers*. The book highlights how education is essential for democracy and counters authoritarian attempts to defund public schools, promote private academies, and ban critical thinking. Through satire, the narrative explores the cultural and political battles over public education and emphasizes the importance of teachers and unions in preserving democratic values.

WHY FASCISTS FEAR TEACHERS: A WITTY EXPLORATION OF PUBLIC EDUCATION’S ROLE IN DEMOCRACY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/09/why-fascists-fear-teachers-witty.html 

### Key Points

- Randi Weingarten’s book, *Why Fascists Fear Teachers*, explores the critical role of public education in preserving democracy and why authoritarian regimes target schools and educators. 

- Public schools are described as incubators for democracy, teaching critical thinking, inclusivity, and collaboration among diverse groups, which authoritarian forces see as threats. 

- Teachers are portrayed as defenders of truth and democracy, empowering students to question authority and understand systemic inequality, making them targets for authoritarian regimes. 

- The book critiques Trump administration policies like defunding schools, promoting private school vouchers, and misusing critical race theory (CRT) to undermine public education. 

- Historical examples show how fascist regimes have consistently attacked education to suppress dissent, from Nazi book burnings to modern censorship. 

- Teachers’ unions are highlighted as defenders of democracy and public education, with their importance growing post-COVID due to improved public perception. 

- The book emphasizes critical thinking as a cornerstone of democracy, making educated citizens harder to manipulate and resistant to propaganda. 

- Weingarten calls for protecting public education, supporting teachers, and encouraging teaching as a transformative career for society.