SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JUNE 20th, 2021

US Supreme Court rules in favor of Catholic Social Services
 The Supreme Court voted unanimously in favor of a Catholic children’s agency. The Catholic Social Services won their case before the court after a rejection by the city of Philadelphia. The agency which helps with foster and adoption services was rejected for a contract by city officials for not offering services to same sex couples. The CSS’s attorneys added validity to their discrimination claims by revealing that no same sex couples had ever requested to work with the organization. The officials at CSS require all couples who apply to be in a traditional marriage and if a same-sex couple had requested to work with them the group would have simply referred them to another organization.  This fact according to CSS attorneys made the rejection unjustified and a clear case of discrimination by city officials.  Justice John Roberts wrote in his opinion on the case, “The refusal by the city of Philadelphia to contract with Catholic Social Services was a violation of the organization’s first amendment rights“. First Liberty Institute’s President Kelly Shackleford praised the decision saying Philadelphia officials were punishing a religious organization for acting consistently with their sincerely held religious beliefs. The Christian Alliance for Orphans, a network of over 100 faith based foster care and adoption services, also praised the Supreme Court’s ruling.   

 Battle in court continues for bakery shop owner
The fight in court for one business owner who supporters believe is being targeted because of his faith.
Jack Phillips, owner of a bakery in Colorado is currently fighting in court based on his refusal to bake a cake for a potential client. Previously Mr. Phillips, who is a Christian refused to bake a cake for a same-sex wedding. That refusal led to a series of lawsuits resulting in the US Supreme Court eventually ruling in favor of Phillips. This time the lawsuit is being filed by a client who wanted to celebrate his gender transition from male to female. When Mr. Phillips refused citing his faith the client filed a lawsuit. This current case has been ongoing for years. Attorneys for Jack Phillips say this lawsuit is a result of targeting by members of the LGBT community. The client in the case according to Phillips’ attorneys is also a lawyer who intentionally targeted him following high profile coverage in the news about his case. 

New Israeli administration faces challenges from Hamas

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has lost his bid for re-election. The loss was announced last week after a long process of re-elections for a final result. The new government is already facing challenges. The terrorist group Hamas called for a day of rage last week. The terror organization encouraged followers to mobilize at the Temple Mount for a “day of anger and defiance of the occupier.” The call for protests and violence comes just a few weeks after an eleven-day conflict with Israel. The conflict ended with a tentative ceasefire between Israeli officials and Hamas. The day of rage was scheduled to be held during a National Flag Day parade in Israel with the route of the parade going through East Jerusalem. According to reports there were some clashes and arrests of Palestinian protesters, but no one was seriously injured. Hamas has vowed to remain hostile to the new administration. 

SNBC HEALTH report: top honors for a powerful little herb
 A little herb with a big impact has won top honors for 2021. Parsley according to the International Herb Association has been named Herb of the year. This plant is sometimes seen as a topping to help brighten a dish, but it has properties that are an important to the human body. Parsley contains flavonoids which are naturally found in fruits, vegetables, chocolate and tea. These flavonoids are antioxidant rich and help fight against diabetes. The herb is antibacterial, and antifungal. Parsley contains anti-inflammatory properties that fight against infection and helps to heal injuries. The herb is also rich in Vitamin K; 10 sprigs of the vegetable would equal the recommended amount of vitamin K needed daily. That same amount of parsley would also include 22 percent of the recommended amount of Vitamin C per day. 

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JUNE 13th, 2021

Children’s Network releases Sing a long with Drag Queen for Pride Celebrations
Nickelodeon is being criticized for once again using children’s programing for a controversial purpose. The children’s television network featured a drag queen on the popular show Blue’s Clues. The segment featured a sing along with the cartoon character Blue and a drag queen performer named Andrew Levitt who goes by the stage name of Nina West. The singalong featured an alphabet song spelling out different letters of the alphabet with phrases related to the LGBT Community. The song further encourages children to be more accepting of children from LGBT families. Blue’s clues which is part of the company’s Nick Jr. programming is for children ages 3-5 years old. Nickelodeon has previously received criticism for introducing LGBT content to young children. The hit show Dr. McStuffins featured a same-sex couple; that show is marketed to toddlers and kindergarten aged children. The company has also used its cartoon characters to support LGBT causes on social media. Mr. Levitt for his part says the sing along was to promote inclusion for LGBT families.  Critics say this kind of programming is inappropriate for young children and is a form of indoctrination. 

US NEWS: Virginia, Charlotte, Washington DC
A high school teacher was placed on leave after speaking out against a potential controversial policy. Physical education teacher Tanner Cross voiced his concern during a school board meeting in Virginia about the board’s policy on students being allowed to select their gender pronouns. Cross said in his comments that he served God first and would not refer to a biological boy as a girl and vice versa. Cross stated the potential requirement by board members violated his religious beliefs. The school where the teacher was employed later announced Mr. Cross’ leave of absence shortly after the speech. The school board says Mr. Cross was suspended after complaints from parents. He was later reinstated by a judge following a lawsuit filed by Alliance Defending Freedom. 

Charlotte City Council to vote on pro-LGBT ordinance
The Charlotte City council is preparing to pass a non-discrimination ordinance. The ordinance is designed to protect the LGBT community. The ordinance is scheduled to be voted on in August. Members of Charlotte Pride say the ordinance is important to prevent prejudice in the city. Several cities and counties in North Carolina passed similar ordinances following the expiration of a law in the state congress which limited city councils’ powers. That law expired six months ago. 

The Pentagon announced it will not allow LGBT flags to be flown above any military bases. The Department of Defense says it will maintain an existing policy banning the display of unofficial flags at military bases according to a spokesperson. The decision is the opposite of a decision made by Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Blinken recently issued an authorization allowing US embassies and consulates to raise the LGBT pride flag. The Department of Defense say the ban is to prevent flags like the Confederate flag and other symbols deemed racist from being raised on military bases.

Networks reject pro-life commercial
Three networks are receiving criticism for rejecting a pro-life commercial. Country Music Television or CMT, CBS, and Hallmark Channel have rejected a pro-life ad from the Susan B. Anthony List. The conservative pro-life organization presented their pro-life ad to each network. The commercial focused on the value of human life from conception. Each network gave different, yet similar reasons for their rejection: CBS claimed the ad was controversial to the general public and therefore deemed unacceptable. CMT claimed they run adds on a case-by-case basis including political ads but deemed this ad controversial and unacceptable to air. The parent company of Hallmark Channel, Crown Media claimed the commercial would impact the enjoyable experience of their viewers.  Representatives for the Susan B. Anthony List responded online criticizing the rejections saying in a statement the right to life is not controversial.  

SNBC HEALTH report: Diet and Mental Health
Doctors are now monitoring the link between unhealthy foods and mental health. According to Harvard Psychiatrist Dr.Uma Naidoo, mental health professionals are releasing more information on the subject. According to Dr. Naidoo the rise in depression and anxiety cases are up due to the food we consume. Doctors reported in some cases during the study patients that were dealing with weight issues, were also dealing with mental health issues. Naidoo says many doctors began prescribing a change in diet as a way to help improve mental health. Dr. Naidoo prescribed several natural foods: antioxidant rich foods like blueberries and tea. Salmon and walnuts for healthy fats to help with anxiety. Patients were prescribed leafy greens rich in folate to help combat depression. Doctors reported improvement in patients’ mental and physical health after a change in their diet. Dr. Naidoo advises eating natural foods as often as possible and limiting processed foods since most have artificial ingredients and added sugar.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JUNE 6th, 2021

SNBC NEWS WAS CANCELED FOR THIS SUNDAY JUNE 6th, please enjoy these web exclusives stories until our next live broadcast.

Governor of Oregon issues restrictive mandate concerning masks
The governor of Oregon has issued a controversial clause concerning the covid 19 shot. According to reports Governor Kate Brown recently relaxed the state’s requirement to wear a mask indoors. The lifting of this mandate however comes with a controversial exception. The governor has issued an ordinance requiring those without a mask to show proof of vaccination. The requirement extends to businesses and churches in the state. A resident or visitor to the state would be required to present their vaccination papers. If the business or church does not want to follow the mandate rules, then the mask becomes mandatory. Critics have called the ordinance unconstitutional and are calling for the Governor to rescind the ordinance. The governor’s ordinance is seen as drastic especially since doctors and scientists are finally admitting that masks do not work. This information was confirmed during the release of emails from Dr. Anthony Fauci’s email account. In the one of the emails from 2020 Fauci did admit wearing masks do not work and he admitted that those who contracted COVID-19 and recovered do have the antibodies needed to fight against the illness. Freedom Foundation has sent a formal letter threatening to file a lawsuit if Governor Brown does not change the law. Another law firm Liberty Counsel says the mandate is a big step towards the loss of freedom.

SNBC HEALTH report: the health benefits of avocados
Avocados have become a popular fruit over the past few years. (Yes you read right, scientists have confirmed its a fruit ! It’s apart of the berry family! ) Its versatility has made it a popular item in a wide range of dishes from breakfast to guacamole to smoothies. An added bonus is the positive effect avocado can have on your overall health. It is one of the most nutrient rich fruits available in the US food market. Avocados are rich in heart healthy fats, and good source of fiber and protein. The fruit has a range of nutrients and has more potassium than a banana. Avocado is considered a good source of healthy fats, low in carbs and could possibly help lower cholesterol. It contains powerful antioxidants that help protect eyes and helps absorb nutrients from other plants better. Avocados are also believed by researchers to help fight against cancer and helps reduce blood pressure and inflammation. The best time to consume the fruit is during its harvest season between April and August but it can be purchased year-round.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY MAY 30th, 2021

Student allowed to give speech after attempted censorship
A student in Michigan will be allowed to give her valedictory speech without being censored. Elizabeth Turner was told by her high school principal that she could not mention her Christian faith during her commencement speech next month. Turner was told by the principal through email that she needed to be “mindful of her religious references because they were not appropriate in a public forum”.  The principal Amy Goldsmith further added her speech was government property and that mentioning Christ was “not appropriate”. Turner mentioned in her speech that Christ was the center of her purpose and that He would lead her throughout her pursuits following high school. The young woman also mentioned in her speech that her identity was in Christ and encouraged her fellow graduates to make today count. The student following the potential ban was represented by First Liberty. Attorneys for the organization argued that Miss Turner’s speech was her private property and not the property of the state government. The attorneys added that a ban violates the US Department of Education’s protection of students’ freedom of expression.  One of the student’s attorneys Keisha Russell said of the case all public schools should protect the private religious expressions of their students. The principal has not commented on the case after the ban was reversed.  

Pastor Gool & Mrs. Gool with members of CLF
(Christian Leaders Fellowship) Photo credit- Victory Christian Center

Pastor Gool honored by Christian Leaders Fellowship
Pastor Gool was honored recently by The Christian Leaders Fellowship. The organization is a group in the US and around the world dedicated to encouragement for pastors and leaders in the Body of Christ. The organization was founded by Pastor Ock Soo Park and is committed to preaching the Gospel according to the Word of God across denominational lines. The organization discovered Pastor in a modern way; on YouTube. Following the viewing of one of Pastor’s sermons the organization contacted Pastor Gool who ministered about empowerment during the CLF’s first virtual conference earlier this year. The organization honored pastor with a plaque of appreciation for his participation in that conference. Members of the organization traveled to present the award to him in person. The plaque reads in part: “for your invaluable contribution bringing insightful perspectives and providing meaningful fellowship to Christian leaders worldwide.” Pastor Gool gave God all the glory for the honor. 

 US Secretary of State meets with Israeli Prime Minister
The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken flew to Israel for a special meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following a ceasefire agreement. The trip was part of the efforts by the US government to continue work with Israel and Palestinians following the ceasefire after an eleven day conflict.  Controversy surrounded the meeting following Blinken’s announcement that the consulate in Jerusalem will reopen. 
President Trump had previously left the run of this office up to the US ambassador to Israel who had shut the office down. The consulate which is separate from the US Embassy in Jerusalem will be used for the sole purpose of restoring diplomatic ties with Palestinians. The Biden Administration refused to condemn Israel for defending its borders from attack during the conflict but has continued to fund Palestinians. Secretary Blinken announced during his trip 40 million dollars will be pledged to aid Palestinians. A total of 360 million dollars has so far been given by the administration to Palestinians. In addition to the meeting concerning Palestine, Israel’s Prime Minister says they are asking  the US not to renew the Iranian nuclear deal. If they do the prime minister says Israel may have to create their own course concerning negotiations. 

SNBC HEALTH report : the benefits of buying organic meat
According to research organic meat is the best option for consumers. Researchers at Johns Hopkins studied the difference between organic meat and  traditionally processed meats. The difference they found is the way the meat is processed according to requirements. According to the research team organic meats were less likely to be contaminated. The meat also was less likely to contain issues with drug resistant bacteria. The study reveals organic meats are 56 percent less likely to be contaminated than conventionally processed meats. Organic meat according to USDA standards must be from an animal fed 100 percent organic feed, and given no antibiotics or hormones. The animal must be raised humanely and graze in open pastures.  Meat for human consumption in the US is usually processed in three ways: organic, conventional, or split processing which means organic and conventionally processed meats are produced in the same factories. Finding organic meat in stores is fairly easy now and  packages are always clearly labeled with the USDA certified approval seal. 

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY MAY 23rd, 2021

Israel/ Hamas terrorist group reach peace agreement
Israeli forces and the terrorist group Hamas have reached an agreement. The agreement will result in a ceasefire on both sides. Tensions are still high in the region despite the tentative peace deal. The ceasefire agreement was reached with Egyptian officials serving as mediators. The ceasefire is unconditional according to Israeli officials. The terrorist group Hamas remains defiant following their attacks on Israel. The group held a victory parade in Gaza this week following the ceasefire. Many Political leaders showed a strong biased towards Palestine during the attacks.  Israeli forces were called aggressive for defending its borders from attack. According to reports the UN seems to be siding more with the Palestinians. During one address to the UN an official claimed Israel and Hamas have both committed war crimes. Israeli officials have continued to comment that they will defend the nation and its citizens from attacks.  

Pro-Israel supporters gather for rally in Charlotte
Support for Israel continued this week in Charlotte. About 100 supporters gathered at Romare- Bearden Park in support of Israel. The event sponsored by Club Z  featured speeches and poetry in support of Israel. Olga Washington wrote a poem in support of Israel and the Jewish community around the world. Participants including Pastor Dumisani Washington gave impassioned speeches calling for the support of Israel and for locals in the area to standup in support of that nation protecting its borders. One participant Yael Osovski spoke on her own personal hardships recently during the Israel/Hamas conflict. Speaking with SNBC News following the demonstration she spoke on how she stood with friends during BLM protests last year. Yael says the favor was not returned during her stance in support of Israel. She later commented that most of her Black friends declined to show any support for her during this time. The mainstream media in America as well as other left wing groups showed support mainly for Palestine claiming that they were the real victims. Hamas fired rockets into Israel first starting the 11 day conflict. Israeli officials say they only defended the nation rather than initiating any attacks on the terrorist group. The most extreme opponents want sanctions against Israel because of the conflict. 

Toy companies court LGBT customers with controversial toy campaign
The month of June will feature several promotions from companies celebrating what has been dubbed LGBT pride month. The latest company to enter to fray is a children’s toy company. Lego has debuted a toy line rainbow colored in honor of the month of June. The toy is displayed on the company’s website and in a press release celebrating the special toy. The item according to the company is a way to express individuality while keeping each toy ambiguous. The set was created by one of the company’s designers who claims to be apart of the LGBT community. The set includes a purple figurine with a wig in honor of drag queens. The set is just part of other campaigns being used to promote and court LGBT customers as part of the pride month campaign. Companies including Converse, have released special products promoting the month. Some critics in the LGBT community claim the products are not enough and they are only an attempt to get money. Critics believe this special product creation is being used to expose impressionable children and will alienate other customers. 

SNBC HEALTH report : using food as medicine
According to Dr. Robert Lustig food is not serving its purpose to the human body as it should. The doctor says food has the nutrients to help the body naturally heal and function properly. Lustig says people having healthy food has been interrupted by big business. Most of these companies are interested in GMO products and processed foods which are unnaturally created or are loaded with preservatives to increase shelf life. Processed foods strip food of necessary nutrients and can cause the body harm long term. Unhealthy eating habits can lead to other issues. Dr. Lustig says these issues are largely due to companies caring more about making money instead of providing healthy options for customers. The doctor advises eating whole food with fiber, antioxidants and nutrients to help feed the body the essentials it needs to thrive whenever possible. Most foods like eggs, dark leafy greens, fruits, and seafood are filled with multiple nutrients vital to the body’s health.