SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JANUARY 8th, 2023

SNBC NEWS Update: Department of Defense ends COVID Shot mandates
The Department of Defense has ended COVID shot mandates for all members of the US Armed Forces. This announcement was made following the signing of the National Defense Authorization Act into law.  For the past year, the Biden Administration has refused to end this controversial mandate, sparking much criticism, including from members of Congress. Recruitment for every branch of the military was reported at an all-time low over the past year. This is believed to be due, in part, to the Covid shot mandate. The Department of Defense has also been also plagued with lawsuits after thousands of servicemen and women were either denied religious exemptions or forced out of the military for refusing the shot.  Liberty Counsel, who defended several servicemen who filed lawsuits, released a statement saying in part, "While we are pleased that Joe Biden's unlawful and abusive Covid shot mandate will be rescinded, this begrudging reversal under pressure by Congress is not enough." Liberty Counsel founder Mat Staver continued, criticizing the Biden Administration for allowing retaliation against servicemen who requested religious exemptions from the Covid shot.

Libraries reverse ban against actor after public outcry
Actor Kirk Cameron is reporting two libraries have now approved story hours to promote his book. Libraries in both Indianapolis and Scarsdale, New York reversed the rejection following public criticism.  The publisher of Cameron’s book requested story hour events at 50 libraries across the US to promote the book ‘As we Grow’. The request was denied by all the libraries, with some citing they were LGBT friendly. Cameron and Brave Books Publishing representatives called the rejection discrimination. Several of the libraries that rejected Cameron’s request had previously approved and promoted drag queen story hour events to parents of children as young as 18 months old.  Representatives for the Scarsdale library claim Cameron and Brave Books never requested a story hour but only to use a meeting room.  The events were held on December 29th and 30th.

Israeli Prime Minister blasts latest UN “attack”
Newly installed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is taking a stand against more persecution from the United Nations. Netanyahu took aim at the UN for approving a recent vote to present litigation against the nation of Israel concerning “how to deal with the occupation, settlement and annexation of Palestinian territory.” The request to the International Court of Justice at the Hague is the culmination of two months of various UN policies against Israel. Critics believe these efforts are an attempt to force Israel to give land to Palestine for its own Sovereign nation. Netanyahu quoted Psalm 121, 'The Guardian of Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps' in his response. He went onto say the land in dispute is not occupied land but was fairly won in modern times during the Six Day war in 1967.  Twenty-six nations, including the United States, voted against this recent resolution; 53 nations abstained. Palestinian leaders applauded the decision, calling it a historic achievement and a diplomatic victory.

SNBC Health report -- the importance of sleep and heart health
According to a recent report from the American Heart Association, sleep is beneficial to every area of the human body, especially the heart. The average adult needs at least seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Doctors believe at least six of these hours should come with minimum to limited interruptions, if at all possible. Doctors commenting on the study further added limiting stress throughout the day and at bedtime are also key factors in getting rest. Exercise is also recommended as part of a healthy lifestyle and will help promote a good night’s sleep. Researchers also suggest creating an environment that promotes sleep in your bedroom, limiting screen time prior to sleep and limiting processed and fried foods all as a part of promoting heart health.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JANUARY 1st, 2023

Justice rules in favor of Army soldiers /West Point cadets
Two big wins tonight in the continued fight against COVID mandates. A judge in Texas has granted a temporary injunction to 10 Army and West point cadets. The group requested religious exemptions from being required to take the COVID-19 shot. Liberty Counsel represented the students and soldiers and say their clients have a right to refuse the shot based on religious beliefs. Texas District Court Judge James Wesley Hendrix agreed saying the Army had no right to force the soldiers and students’ moral beliefs. Hendrix added that most soldiers in the Army express deeply religious beliefs and that the Army did not prove their case. The just further protected those listed as a part of the lawsuit by banning any kind of retaliation in the form of disciplinary action. The department of the Army has received over 19-hundred requests for religious exemptions; only 123 requests have been accepted.

SNBC NEWS update: Judge approves historic settlement
A federal judge has approved of a large settlement against a hospital system in Illinois. The lawsuit stemmed from over 500 workers being forced by Northshore University Healthcare system to either take the COVID shot or be fired. Justice John Kness approved the settlement. The largest of its kind so far over 400 former and current employees will split a monetary win of over 10 million dollars. The group was represented by Liberty Counsel. Attorneys for the group say they hope this landmark decision will send a message to other organizations that try to force employees to compromise their religious beliefs. Employees that were fired will be allowed to reapply for their jobs and will receive the same position and status prior to their termination. Those clients will also receive 25-thousand dollars in the settlement. Clients that took the shot and are still employed by the Northshore health care system will receive a settlement of 3 thousand dollars. Northshore University Healthcare system has not commented on the outcome of this case.

Christian population grows in Israel
According to a report released on Christmas Day the population of Christians has increased in Israel. The report released by the Central Bureau of Statistics, an Israeli government study group, the Christian population in Israel grew by 2 percent in 2021. This number may be considered small, but it is significant to that nation. The report claims of that population 76 percent are Arab Christians which make up about 7 percent of Israel’s population. The report also finds this group tends to be pursue higher education more, obtaining multiple degrees. Some citizens in the nation of Israel frown on the Gospel being witnessed; some organizations have even ended partnerships with Christian organizations over evangelism efforts in Israel as some in that nation consider evangelism offensive. However, Dr. Michael Brown has continued to encourage Christians, saying it is critical that the Jewish people continue to be offered the message of the Good News of Jesus Christ.

SNBC HEALTH Report: micronutrients that benefit and promote heart health
According to a recent study at Brown University there are some essential micronutrients that are beneficial to promoting a healthy heart. The study finds three micronutrients that are essential in helping promote heart health in the body. The first is well known Omega 3 fats; found in various seafoods, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds omega 3 is known for its benefits to the heart. The nutrient has long been listed as a part of a heart health regimen. Folate is a micronutrient beneficial to the heart and stroke prevention. Folate can be naturally found in high levels in asparagus, avocados, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and spinach. Coenzyme also known as coenzyme Q10 may not be familiar to some, but this micronutrient has multiple benefits to the human body. It helps with the prevention of heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, and inflammation. This micronutrient is also good for brain health, the lungs and skin health. Coenzyme can be found naturally in various foods including: liver, beef, chicken, pork, fatty fish such as trout and in strawberries, oranges, spinach and broccoli.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY DECEMBER 25, 2022

Former students lose case against state
Four former high school students have lost their appeal against the state of Connecticut. The former female athletes sued after they say they were forced to run in track events against biological males. The male athletes identified as transgender and were allowed to race against females in the state of Connecticut. State officials claimed the two transgender students were protected under state and federal laws to participate in those races. During the athletes’ time racing against biological females, they broke 17 state records and won 15 state titles in the women’s categories. One female student that raced against the two athletes came in third repeatedly; that student, Chelsea Miller, wrote in an article for USA TODAY how the experience negatively affected her mentally and emotionally. The female students were represented by Alliance Defending Freedom. Senior Counsel Christiana Kiefer released a statement saying in part, “Every Woman deserves the respect and dignity that comes with having an equal opportunity to excel and win in athletics, and ADF remains committed to protecting the future of women’s sports.” 18 states in the US have passed laws banning any athlete that is not a biological female from participating in women’s sports.

Actor threatens lawsuit over library ban
Actor Kirk Cameron says he will “assert his constitutional rights” following what he calls discrimination. Cameron, who is a Christian and outspoken about his faith, was denied the opportunity to host story hour events at public libraries across the US. The story hour events were to promote an upcoming book entitled ‘As We Grow’. Cameron says most of the library officials that rejected the tour claimed they and Cameron’s beliefs did not align, or that they were not interested. The book is according to Cameron is about Biblical wisdom, and teaching children about how to grow according to the fruit of the spirit mentioned in Galatians 5. Cameron says he is prepared to take the case to court. The libraries that rejected the event are the same ones that allowed Drag Queen Story hours. These events feature men dressed in women’s clothing reading to young children. One library rejected Cameron’s request by commenting that they were a “queer friendly library”. Cameron and Brave Books Publishing have sent letters to some of the libraries along with a free copy of the book for patrons that desire to read it. Kirk Cameron’s sister Candace Cameron Bure recently was criticized by secular media and several celebrities for leaving Hallmark Channel due to the network’s recent addition of same-sex characters and storylines. Cameron-Bure cited her faith and desire to work for a company that promotes traditional marriage as her reasons for parting ways with Hallmark.

UK Supreme Court rules against silent protests
The Supreme Court of the United Kingdom has ruled against demonstrators who protest in front of abortion clinics. The court ruled that the Northern Ireland government can ban or censor protests in front of abortion clinics, even if they are silent prayer demonstrations. Protestors are now limited to a 328-foot distance and cannot offer help to potential patients, which includes distribution of materials. Those who violate the law could be arrested and fined a three thousand dollar fine for trespassing. The UK division of Alliance Defending Freedom released a statement saying peaceful protest activities should not be criminalized. The British government is working on a similar law. Violators of that law could face up to two years in prison. The Scottish government is also expected to pass a similar law in that region.

SNBC HEALTH Report: A new study finds Aspartame may have more than just long-term physical effects on the human body
Researchers are advising consumers about possible issues associated with artificial sweeteners in particular aspartame. This artificial sweetener has been marketed as an alternative to white sugar to promote a healthier lifestyle. Researchers at Florida State University’s college of medicine noted the breakdown of aspartame in the human body results in “potent” effects. The research team studied mice feeding the animals the same amount of aspartame found in six to eight cans of diet soda daily. The study found the mice developed anxiety-like behaviors related to their dependency on the sweetener. Researchers commented in the report that this chemical dependency was unexpected at the rate it developed. They also noted that treating the mice with an anxiety medication was the only thing that helped the addictive nature of the animals’ response. In addition to this observation, researchers noted aspartame altered the part of the animals’ brains that regulate fear and anxiety response. This disruption was reported in subject’s offspring for at least two generations. Researchers believe headaches, seizures, migraines, weight issues, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes are linked to the consumption of artificial sweeteners. They advise eliminating these sweeteners from your health regimen.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY DECEMBER 18th, 2022

Nativity Scene displayed for 70 years remains in place after complaint
A nativity scene in Arkansas will continue to be on display after a dispute. The mayor and city attorney of Eureka Springs, Arkansas requested a display celebrating the birth Jesus be removed following a complaint. According to the organization that donated the display, the mayor asked for it to be taken down after one resident threatened to sue the city. The man claimed the display violated his religious freedom. Randal Christy, who is associated with the organization countered saying the display is a part of a nationally recognized holiday celebrating the Birth of Jesus and he would not remove it. Christy later criticized the city for folding so quickly after one complaint. Following the controversy being made public, the city has agreed to allow the display. It will be featured in an upcoming Christmas play in the city’s park. The display was donated by a local organization and has been on display in Eureka Springs since 1950 (72 years). Randal Christy wrote on social media following the reversal by the city’s mayor, that he was proud of Mayor Robert Berry for his decision.

Afterschool Satan club request withdrawn in Virginia
A resident has withdrawn an application to host a Satanic after school club in Virginia. The resident, who remains unnamed applied to start an after-school Satan club at BM Williams Primary School in Chesapeake, Virginia. According to school officials the sponsor withdrew the application, following backlash from the community and claimed she was fearful for her family’s safety. The sponsor also cited the recent shooting in the area at a local Wal-Mart as reason to remove the request, to help the community, continue to heal (the shooter in that incident mentioned Satan in his manifesto). Organizers with the Satanic Temple claim they do not promote Satanism, but rather encourage children to explore critical thinking, problem-solving and creative expression. The campaign director for the national after school Satan club organization says they have a new sponsor and plan to continue with efforts to launch the after-school program. Parents in Chesapeake say they will continue to protest the Satanic after school program.

Popular doll company under fire for “woke” messaging to young girls
A popular doll company is refusing to back down after releasing a controversial and divisive book for young girls. The American Girl series has published a book by author Mel Hammond. The book advises young girls to “contact a doctor who may offer medicine to delay your body’s changes giving you more time to think about gender identity.”  The book entitled, ‘ A Smart Girls Guide: Body Image’,  is 96-page book is marketed to girls ages 10 and older, but some parents claim it is marked to girls as young as 4 years old. The book encourages girls who are confused about their bodies to secretly contact doctors without their parents’ knowledge to receive hormone treatment and counseling about gender identity. Parents are calling for a nationwide boycott of the company’s products. Critics believe hurting the company financially by refusing to purchase products will encourage American Girl executives to stay away from these kinds of topics if it effects their bottom line. Customers have reportedly flooded the company’s website with complaints about the controversial book. The American Girl company claims it is committed to delivering content that leaves readers feeling informed, confident, and positive about themselves.  American Girl sells dolls and related products to girls as young as toddlers to 14 years of age. The company has not commented further on the controversy and has continued to refuse to issue an apology concerning the controversy.

SNBC HEALTH Report:  A new report reveals certain Hair Products May Increase Risk for Uterine Disease.  The use popular hair straightening products may be at increased risk of uterine cancer, according to a study from the National Institutes of Health. The study finds long-standing concerns about the safety of chemicals used in cosmetics and personal care products.  The industry, according to reports, is largely unregulated; the U. S. FDA allows ingredients in these products with no testing. Studies found some to these harmful products, being used in skin care, makeup and hair care products, including hair straightening chemicals, such as relaxers. 

The study included data from 33,497 U. S. women between the ages of 35 and 74, who took part in the Sister Study - a separate research initiative led by the NIH’s National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. A follow-up study 10 year later found over 300 of participants were diagnosed with uterine cancer. Those who had used hair straightening products in the previous 12 months had a higher rate of uterine cancer than those who had never used such products. 

The rate of uterine cancer cases has increased in recent years; cases are particularly aggressive among Black women, according to a 2019 study led by Dr. Megan Clarke, with the National Cancer Institute’s Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics.  

Women who used hair straighteners every 5-8 weeks, were 30% more likely to develop breast cancer, compared to 60% of Black women who were more at risk due to increased use of these product. 

The study suggests that hair straighteners are particularly dangerous because more chemicals may be absorbed through the skin of the scalp compared to skin on other parts of the body. In addition, heating processes such as flat ironing or blow drying during straightening treatments could release more toxic chemicals into the scalp. 

 To simply your routine to avoid exposure, researchers suggest making your own personal care products using safe ingredients like coconut oil, mild soap, and essential oils.  

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY DECEMBER 11th, 2022

Controversial respect for Marriage Act passes in US
The respect for Marriage act has passed the Senate and has just passed the US House. The new law will protect same-sex marriage and require states across the US to recognize same-sex marriage regardless of state law. Supporters of this law claim this legislation will also protect interracial marriages and is a victory for equality. The bill passed the senate 62-35; the new law according to officials will not force same-sex ceremonies to be held at churches or for ministers to perform these ceremonies. Critics believe this kind of law will be used for persecution against religious organizations that refuse to host events or provide services for same-sex couples due to religious beliefs. James Lankford a representative from Oklahoma says this bill now law, is an attempt to silence anyone who does not agree with the government because of their faith. The creation of the bill may have been spawned due to the overturn to Roe vs. Wade by the US Supreme Court. Members of the Democratic party claimed other rights maybe at stake and laws needed to be passed to protect same-sex and interracial marriage. The law is expected to be signed according to representatives from the Biden Administration.

G20 leaders propose vaccine passports for citizens of participating countries
Leaders at a large economic summit recently voted on a controversial measure. Members of the G20 meeting held in Indonesia in November voted on several resolutions. These nations including the US have agreed to use these measures in their nations. Among the policies the nations agreed to adopt a new vaccine passport. The new resolution will allow each nation’s citizens to travel with a digital passport verifying they have had certain vaccines including the COVID 19 shot. Supporters of the policy claim the digital passport is a way to help boost tourism and help the world’s economy. Critics called the decision an overreach of government and a violation of individual human rights. The passport would be approved according to standards set by the World Health Organization. The passport could also be used to track a person’s interactions and where abouts when traveling. The G20 summit is made up of the world’s most populated nations. These resolutions are not binding but are considered a kind of treaty among nations that attend. Critics here in the US called the resolution a violation of the US Constitution, HIPPA laws, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

Vermont will provide funding for private religious schools
The state of Vermont has agreed to provide funding for religious schools. State officials recently agreed to provide funding for students attending faith-based schools statewide. Officials had previously allowed funding for students in the state to attend private schools if no public schools were available in rural areas of the state. The state banned funding for religious private schools. Alliance Defending Freedom filed a federal lawsuit on behalf of parents, students, and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Vermont. A court recently ruled in favor of the ADF’s clients. The ruling will end a 20-year ban on funding for students attending religious schools in that state. ADF Legal counsel Paul Schmitt called the previous ban unlawful and thanked the local school districts for agreeing to provide the funding. Parents sued for the right to receive funding in the state of Maine concerning a similar rule. That case was appealed to the US Supreme Court which ruled in favor of students receiving the state funding calling the ban discrimination.

SNBC HEALTH Report: the importance of the healthy gut. This time of year has been traditionally dubbed cold and flu season by healthcare professionals. This term is not something we as believers should accept. Our protection starts with two things: the Word of God and a good health regimen. Concerning the natural body Dr. Robynne Chutkan says a strong immune system can be developed with high levels of good bacteria in the intestines. Good bacteria according to the doctor is vital to maintain a healthy immune system. Dr. Chutkan says living organisms found in certain foods help provide the body with good bacteria to fight against respiratory health issues. In addition to these foods fiber rich foods are also helpful to the process of promoting healthy bacteria in the body. Foods such as yogurt, kimchi, kombucha, buttermilk, and pickles are examples of probiotic foods that contain good bacteria. You can also take probiotic supplements but acquiring nutrients through food is usually recommended as a primary source of nutrition.