“America’s Pastor” NC Evangelist honored in Washington with statute
Reverend Billy Graham was honored with a statue in the nation’s capital. The statue was unveiled in a private ceremony this week. The statue which will be on display in an area called Statuary Hall will be on display as part of statues honoring those from all 50 states including the state of North Carolina. The statue, created by a sculptor from North Carolina, will depict the late reverend preaching the Gospel with his Bible in hand. Reverend Billy Graham ministered to millions around the world for over 80 years and was a spiritual advisor to 12 US presidents. Rev. Franklin Graham says his father would be honored but would point admirers back to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The seven-foot statue will be inscribed with the verses John 3:16, and John 14:6. Reverend Billy Graham nicknamed the native son here in North Carolina, was born in Charlotte in 1918; he passed away in 2018 at the age of 99.
Israel celebrates somber anniversary as a modern nation
The recent conflict between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas has not stopped Israeli citizens from celebrating that nation’s Independence Day. Israel observed its 76 birthday as a modern nation this week. The nation was founded in modern times in 1948 following the atrocities of the Holocaust. The nation, currently in the midst of war, observed its anniversary with a more subdued tone this year. Some citizens marked the day with extended memorial observations for fallen soldiers and the victims of October 7th. Citizens also held peaceful protests calling for the release of the remaining hostages. The nation of Israel is the only democratic nation in the Middle East. Despite pressure from outside sources, the nation’s leaders are preparing to invade Rafah, the last Hamas stronghold soon according to reports.
SNBC NEWS UPDATE: an elementary school student has won her case
The young girl along with another student requested to start an afterschool interfaith prayer club at Creekside Elementary in Washington State. The two students were denied by the school calming there was no more money in the budget to create their club. Prior to the denial the school announced a pro-LGBT club would be starting at the school. The student’s parents later contacted First Liberty, a nonprofit Christian law firm concerning the case. Following contact from the girl’s attorney and pressure from the public, the school has agreed to fund the interfaith prayer club. The 11 year old student says it is an example that someone her age can make a difference. The student added that interested classmates have already contacted her concerning joining the prayer club.
SNBC HEALTH report: How olive oil can protect the brain as we age
A new study finds olive oil may help with preventing cognitive decline as we age. The research team was led by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health along with other universities. The study reviewed a 28-year study that followed over 90 thousand adults over the age of 56. The study which focused on dementia and other cognitive issues, found a decrease in the diagnosis among subjects that consumed 7 grams of olive oil or more per day. The study also noted that the research reported a decrease in cognitive illnesses regardless of diet as long as olive oil was included. A nutritionist noted this is due to olive oil’s natural health benefits. Olive oil contains omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant properties which benefit the body, especially as we age. Researchers believe adding olive oil to a healthy regimen will continue benefit to all parts of the body.