Photo Courtesy of Wendy Chaplin (SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE-Victory Christian Center- Charlotte)
Lift Up Charlotte Prayer Event
Residents of the Charlotte Metro area gathered in Uptown for an event called Lift Up Charlotte. The event sponsored by CMPD Police Chief Johnny Jennings, City Commissioner Vilma Leake, and The City’s Clergy Work group invited residents of the city and surrounding areas to pray for the city, police, and residents. Those invited to pray enjoyed worship music, and fellowship with those in the community and representing several churches. Mrs. Marilyn Gool prayed for the city during the community event. Lift Up Charlotte closed with praise and worship and a heartfelt thank you from organizers to those who participated. Participants at the event commented on their excitement to be apart of the prayer event, and how at this critical time in America and in the City of Charlotte it is important to be in prayer.
Coney- Barrett confirmation hearing move forward after criticism from opposition
Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett has made it through the latest rounds of media scrutiny since her candidacy announcement. Coney-Barrett recently tested negative for COVID-19. The announcement comes just days after the president and first lady announced they had tested positive for the illness. The president and first lady are doing well according to White House officials saying both are experiencing mild symptoms. Republicans in the Senate have announced hearings Coney-Barrett’s nomination will start on October 12th. The nomination is expected to be confirmed by the Senate majority. Coney-Barrett has been under scrutiny for her faith and her personal life including being an adoptive mother to two children from Haiti and a child with special needs. Critics in addition to attacks on her personal life claim the President has no right to nominate a justice to the Supreme Court during his “lame duck phase”. Democratic nominee former Vice President Joe Biden along with his supporters believe the nomination to replace the late justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg should occur after the National Elections.
Christian groups sue state of Virginia over new laws
Several Christian business owners, schools, and organizations have filed a lawsuit against the state of Virginia after two laws that they believe violates their rights. The first law (S.B. 868) or the Virginia Values Act now requires employers in the state to hire employees regardless of whether they share the same beliefs. The second law (H.B. 1429) would require ministries to cover controversial procedures under their healthcare plans for employees such as a transgender surgery. Supporters of the new laws say it also protects people based on race, disability, and military veterans. Critics including those in the lawsuits say these laws are a violation of their rights and may force them to offer services or hire employees contrary to their Christian faith. Virginia State Senator Adam P. Ebbin said of the lawsuit against the new laws "People have a right to be free from discrimination… And there are a few people who want to hold onto the past, unfortunately." The new laws will go into effect on July 1st of next year if they are not overturned.
SNBC HEALTH report : the health benefits of Beets
Researchers are reporting benefits from beets that some consumers may find interesting. According to researchers at the University of Florida nitrates found naturally in food may help improve lung function in humans. The researchers used two study groups involving mice to conduct the study. According to the results the mice given nitrates in their drinking water were found to have improved lung function. Beets are naturally found to be high in nitrates. It is considered one on the vegetables with the highest nitrates containing 250 milligrams of the nutrient. In addition to nitrates beets are high in phosphorus, zinc, fiber, vitamins C, A, B6, calcium and iron. Beets are also a good source of energy, help fight inflammation and assist in detoxification. The vegetable can be consumed in various forms, but it is advised not to overcook the vegetable or it could diminish its nutritional value. Researchers do note that beets are naturally high in sugar, but believe eating the vegetable or drinking beet juice a few times a week will not affect blood sugar levels. They do advise to consume in moderation.