Statue of Hindu god erected in Texas
A statue in Texas is causing a stir around the U.S. A Hindu temple in Sugarland, Texas recently unveiled a new statue during a celebration ceremony. The statue is of the Hindu deity Hanuman; the 90-foot statue is now considered the 3rd largest in the U.S. behind the Statue of Liberty in New York, and a statue called the Pegasus and Dragon in Florida. The statue is of a half man, half monkey and is the god of power, courage and selfless service in the Hindu religion. Some religion experts say the statue being built in the U.S. is reflective of decrease in the number of Americans who identify as Christian. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, only 64 percent of Americans identified as Christian in 2020. The average was 90 percent in 1972. Christians and conservatives called the statue demonic; representatives from the Hindu temple say they hope the statue sets new milestones between Americans and Indian communities.
Michigan court finds pro-life demonstrators guilty
Critics are speaking out following the conviction of several pro-life protestors in Michigan. The seven defendants were convicted for peacefully protesting in front of an abortion clinic. Those convicted included an 89 year old protestor. The convictions for one charge could carry up to a 10 year sentence. The prosecutors charged the demonstrators under the F.A.C.E. ACT, which stands for Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances. This federal law was originally passed to prosecute and convict hate groups in the U.S., like the KKK. The 89 year old, named Eva Edl, survived a concentration camp in Yugoslavia as a child. Ms. Edl says she is being persecuted for Christ’s sake and says she is ready to spend her final years in prison if she is sentenced to jail time. Critics have expressed outrage saying the law is being used against pro-life protestors is an abuse of power.
Israeli forces launch successful pre-emptive strike
Israeli forces are reporting success after a pre-emptive strike. The country’s defense forces say they launched a strike against the terrorist group, Hezbollah. IDF officials say the strike may have saved the lives of hundreds, if not thousands of civilians in the Northern region of that country. Israel’s military announced the strike after they confirmed surveillance of the terrorist group’s weapons arsenal. Hezbollah did attempt to counterattack; one Israeli soldier was killed in that attack. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says they will continue their defensive against Hezbollah to protect Israel’s citizens.
SNBC Health report: the Health Benefits of artichokes
The artichoke is a vegetable that is not as popular as others here in the U.S. It is one that should be considered due to its flavor and benefits to the human body. Artichokes contain a nutrient that assists in antioxidant absorption and is ranked number seven by the Department of Agriculture here in the U.S. for its antioxidant properties. It is beneficial to blood pressure and the brain. Artichokes are believed to assist in improved gut health, reduce cholesterol, heart health, and helps improve skin health. Artichokes can also provide 10 grams of fiber to the daily diet; 25 to 50 grams is recommended daily. This vegetable can be prepared in a variety of ways and is harvested during the spring and fall seasons.