Pepper…and Salt

The first round of The Open 2025 is underway at Royal Portrush, with early drama unfolding on the course. Padraig Harrington stumbled with a bogey on the par-three 3rd, losing his lead to Jacob Skov Olesen, a 26-year-old Dane making his pro debut. Fans can follow the live leaderboard or reach out to the reporter for updates.

Editor’s Note: The Open is one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments, and early rounds often set the tone for surprises and rising stars. Harrington’s slip and Olesen’s strong start could hint at an unpredictable leaderboard, keeping fans glued to every shot. For golf enthusiasts, this is where the drama begins.

Texas is set to execute Robert Roberson in October for the 2002 death of his 2-year-old daughter, a case where he was convicted of "shaking baby syndrome"—a controversial forensic theory. His lawyers insist he’s innocent, arguing the conviction relied on since-disputed medical science. This comes after his execution was postponed last year, giving hope for further review.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another execution story—it’s a flashpoint in the debate over shaky forensic evidence and irreversible punishments. If Roberson is innocent, as his legal team claims, Texas could be putting an innocent man to death based on science that’s now widely questioned. It’s a grim reminder of how flawed evidence can linger in the justice system long after experts move on.

The US Senate narrowly passed President Trump's proposal to cut $9 billion in funding—primarily targeting foreign aid and public broadcasting—by a vote of 51 to 48. This marks another legislative win for Trump, showcasing his tightening grip on a Congress that’s offering little pushback.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about budget trimming—it’s a sign of shifting priorities and political muscle. Cuts to foreign aid could strain global relationships, while slashing public broadcasting funds hits cultural and educational programs many Americans rely on. For Trump’s base, it’s a promise kept; for critics, it’s another contentious move with real-world consequences. Either way, it underscores how much sway the president still holds.

Edward Said, a Columbia University professor and influential thinker, spent decades bringing Palestinian voices into mainstream American discourse. Even now, years after his death, his legacy lives on—student protesters cite his work, his interviews go viral online, and universities worldwide still teach his books. This story explores how Said championed Palestinian perspectives, the resistance he encountered, and why his ideas remain fiercely relevant today.

Editor’s Note: Said’s work wasn’t just academic—it reshaped how many people understand Palestine. With campus protests and social media keeping his ideas alive, this isn’t just about history; it’s about why his arguments still spark debate, especially as the conflict continues to unfold. If you’ve ever wondered how Palestinian narratives broke into Western consciousness, Said’s story is key.

In a late-night vote, the Senate approved a White House-backed proposal to cut $9 billion in funding for foreign aid and public media programs. The bill now moves to the House, which has until Friday to pass it—otherwise, the executive branch is expected to release the funds as originally planned.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about trimming budgets—it’s a high-stakes tug-of-war over where federal dollars should go. Foreign aid and public media are often lightning rods for political debate, and this move signals a shift in priorities (or a bargaining chip) in ongoing negotiations. If the House doesn’t act fast, the money could flow as initially intended, making this a race against the clock with real consequences for programs that rely on that funding.