Good morning.

We're not exactly easing into 2026, are we? News-wise, at least.

But some in Chicago don't want to let the slings and arrows of 2025 pass. Case in point: Chicago Board of Education President Sean Harden. He's launched an investigation into who on the 21-member board leaked the names of two candidates for Chicago Public Schools CEO last year as well as (gasp) plans for a public board meeting in late December to raise taxes. The editorial board considers the absurdity of this situation.

On a lighter note, the board urges you all to take a break from the news and go to the zoo. Or any of the area's many other cultural attractions, which are offering lots of free days as winter tightens its grip.

Check out the op-ed by James Warren, former managing editor of this fine paper, on how difficult it's getting to sift AI-generated images and videos from real ones. We're all going to have to become sharper content consumers.

I really liked the yarn by former New York Times reporter Alison Leigh Cowan on just how hard it was for her and her husband to give blood while in Israel.

And political consultant Paul Miller has some advice for Republican primary voters, especially in suburban Chicago. Leave your litmus tests outside as you head into the voting booth.

Not surprisingly, we've got lots of reader letters on the Venezuela operation and its aftermath. We appreciate your thoughts, as always. We'll be back in your inbox tomorrow.

— Steve Daniels, editorial board member

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