SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY FEBRUARY 5th, 2023

Congresswoman erects controversial flag at D.C. office in protest of Israel
Rashida Tlaib is again at the center of a controversy in Washington. The Congresswoman posted a pictured on social media posing in front of the Palestinian flag. The flag was placed in front of her office next to the American flag according to the post. Tlaib commented that the Palestinian flag was erected in protest to recent policies in Israel. The congresswoman referred to Israel as an apartheid government. She further added that Palestinians existence cannot be erased. Tlaib claims the protest is in response to Israel’s Security Minister attempting to ban displaying the Palestinian flag in Israel. This claim is incorrect according to Israeli officials the PLO flag can be displayed in Israel, but police in that nation have the authority to take down the Palestinian flag if it is displayed in support of a terror group or terror attack. Rashida Tlaib was criticized by fellow U.S. congressmen and Israel’s Security Minister who says the nation will continue to fight terrorism and the encouragement of terrorism with all their might.

RBG inspired statue sparks criticism
Critics are not withholding their opinions about a recent statute erected in New York City. The statue entitled “Witness” is a golden image of a female with her hair twisted to look like horns and golden arms that resemble tentacles. The statue is on display on top of the New York Appellate Division. Critics called the statue demonic, a golden medusa, and a monstrosity. The statue’s creator claims it is in honor of the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The statue even has a golden version of the late supreme court justice’s signature lace collar. The creator of the statue added it was created in honor of Ginsburg’s support of abortion. The statue will be removed from the courthouse in June and will later be on display in Texas.

Pope Francis expresses comments on homosexuality
Pope Francis is now weighing in on a moral debate criticizing laws that criminalize homosexuality. The pope claims these kinds of laws are unjust. In an interview with the Associated Press the pope encouraged Catholic bishops who support laws against the LGBT community to welcome these parishioners to their churches. The pope has spoken out previously in support of the LGBT community opposing laws around the world calling them unjust. The pope says of his stance that he still considers homosexuality a religious sin but says there is a difference between a crime and a sin. Critics believe the pope’s stance is adding further confusion to the church prompting more traditional Catholic churches to resist Pope Francis’ ever changing beliefs. Some critics believe the pope’s more vocal support for the LGBT community is believed due to the recent death of his predecessor Pope Benedict.

SNBC HEALTH report: the health benefits of thiamine or B1
This nutrient was studied during tests in the fight against covid -19 in 2020. Researchers found the nutrient was essential in fight against respiratory infections. They discovered that some patients hospitalized in critically ill situations were deficient in the nutrient. Thiamine according to a 2018 study is found to regulate the body’s immune function. It is a critical nutrient in preventing septic shock according to researchers who administered the nutrient to critically ill patients. B1 helps improve memory and helps fights against kidney and circulation issues. It is beneficial to mental health, protects the heart and against heart disease and increase energy production. Foods that include natural sources of Thiamine or B1 include Wheat germ, beef, pork, potatoes, sunflower seeds, and blackstrap molasses.
SNBC NEWS NOTE: according to some reports many cognitive memory health issues diagnosed (ex. Alzheimer’s and Demetia) may actually B1 or Thiamine deficiencies which can mimic some symptoms of these cognitive issues.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JANUARY 29th, 2023

March for Life celebrates 50 years with new purpose post Roe v. Wade
This year’s March for Life is celebrating 50 years of the annual event. The organization’s march was held recently in Washington, DC. Hundreds of Thousands of supporters celebrated with what attendees called a new purpose. Organizers said this year’s March for Life was a celebration of the repeal of Roe. Vs. Wade by the US Supreme Court. Supporters say the court returning this decision back to state governments gives the power back to the people. 14 states in the US passed trigger laws that banned or severely restricted abortions within a certain time frame after conception. Opponents of these laws say the bans restrict women’s rights to their bodies. Supporters report the lives of thousands of babies have been saved since the repeal. They claim there is still more work to be done to continue protecting the lives of the unborn.

American Heart Association confirms link between COVID shot and heart problems
The American Heart Association has released a study confirming a link between the MRNA vaccine and heart conditions. The study released in the medical peer journal Circulation, followed patients at Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston Children’s Hospital. The study found 16 young boys and young adult men were admitted to the hospitals with myocarditis . The rare heart condition causes inflammation in the heart and could cause potential issues with heart disease. A similar study by the Florida Department of Health found 84 percent of male patients between the ages of 18 and 39-year-olds had an increase in cardiac related events associated with MRNA vaccines. The FDA and CDC have acknowledged the link reported by the American Heart Association, but say it occurs only in rare cases. Several critics including former supporters of the MRNA vaccine say they have been censored on social media and ridiculed for their criticism of the vaccine.

CDC launches LGBT curriculum for public schools
The CDC has a more important agenda they are promoting according to recent statement by the organization. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released a curriculum for public school teachers and administrators encouraging them to promote LGBT causes. The organization has announced an initiative called LGBTQ Inclusivity in schools: A Self- Assessment Tool. The project is designed to help schools increase support for students and their families that identify as part of the LGBT community. The agenda which is described as voluntary encourages various suggestions at schools designed to encourage LGBT students. It includes displaying LGBT flags, training for teachers, and the addition of unisex restrooms to schools. Jay Richards, director of the Devos Center for Life, religion and family at the Heritage Foundation says this CDC initiative is not in the description of public health. Other critics echoed the same opinion calling the plan disturbing. The CDC says the plan was developed to help LGBT youth and insist the guideline is voluntary and will not be mandatory in public schools.

SNBC HEALTH report: supporting joint and bone health through nutrition
Researchers believe keeping joints and bones healthy can be achieved through supplements if needed. Most nutritionists advise a well-balanced diet as the best way to achieve the same goal. Adding nutrients to the body through food can be achieved on a daily basis. Here is a list of foods that contain nutrients that promote bone and joint health. Calcium is a well-known nutrient that benefits joints and bones. It is not naturally found in the body. One doctor, Anthony Kouri, an orthopedic surgeon with the University of Toledo Medical Center recommends one thousand milligrams of calcium daily. Turmeric is beneficial to joint health. This spice has anti-inflammatory properties that are proven in research to help with arthritis. Omega 3 fatty acids found in sardines, cod liver oil and salmon also promote joint health. Sweet potatoes contain magnesium and potassium which are beneficial to bone health. Bone broth contains collagen a nutrient that is also beneficial to bone health. Other foods that contain nutrients beneficial to joint and bone health include prunes, tofu, blueberries, Bell peppers, and mushrooms.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JANUARY 22nd, 2023

Professional hockey player criticized for faith during LGBT pride event.
A Professional hockey player is receiving criticism after taking a stand for his faith. Philadelphia Flyers player Ivan Provorov is facing backlash for refusing to participate in the organization’s “Pride Night.” The organization says the event is in support of the LGBT community. Players and staff are asked to wear LGBT pride themed jerseys and decorated hockey sticks with pride flag tape during warmups. The player, who is Russian Orthodox refused citing his faith. Provorov said in reference to his boycott, “I respect everybody and everybody’s choices. My choice is to stay true to myself and true to my religion. The Flyers’ coach, John Tortorella says he was not going to bench the player because of his deeply held religious beliefs and considered any type of punishment unfair. The Philadelphia Flyers organization did not address Provorov’s faith in a statement concerning the incident. The organization commented that they will continue to support the LGBT community and have players that actively support this particular community.

Mall of America criticized for incident over Jesus Saves T-Shirt.
Critics are calling for a boycott of the famous Mall of America in Minnesota after a controversial incident. The mall’s security forced a man to leave the mall because of a t-shirt he was wearing. The man, who has not been identified was asked to leave for wearing a ‘Jesus Saves’ t-shirt. The back of the shirt also had the words co-exist with a black line crossing the word out. Mall security was captured on a video that has gone viral on social media. In the video security claims the man’s shirt was offensive and he would have to leave the mall immediately. One of the security guards claimed the man was soliciting for his religion and that could not be done at the mall due to it being private property. The video was filled on January 7th. Critics commented on the incident encouraging people to wear Jesus Saves t-shirts to the Mall of America and for the man to sue the mall. A protest is planned for February 4th, organizers are encouraging people to wear Jesus Saves T-shirts. According to reports the guest in question was previously asked to leave the mall for witnessing the Gospel to guests. Representatives for Mall of America say the guest in the video was not asked to change his shirt and was eventually allowed to remain in the mall.

Indiana Sheriff’s Department praised for leading prisoners to Christ/ holding water baptism.
A sheriff’s office in Indiana is being praised for celebrating the new year in a very special way. The Decatur County Sherriff’s office held water baptism for 40 male and female inmates. The sheriff’s office announced the event on its Facebook page calling it a great way to celebrate Christmas and the New Year. The office says the sheriff chaplain and other members of the department baptized inmates that had made a public profession of Jesus Christ in their lives. The department added nearly 300 male and female inmates have accepted Christ as their Savior through this campaign. The baptism was one of 59 held in the prison system. An atheist organization claims the sheriff is forcing inmates to participate in Christian events. The Sheriff’s department has not commented on these accusations and says they will continue their work to help prisoners who have committed to change the heart and lives.

SNBC HEALTH REPORT: Foods that benefit eye health.
According to health experts one of the best ways to protect your eyes is through nutrition. According to a study by the British Journal of Ophthalmology some of the best nutrients for the eyes are found in yellow- and orange-colored fruits and vegetables. Lutein, which promotes eye health is found in egg yolks, avocado, broccoli, and peppers. Chrysanthemum tea is drink that promotes eye health it is rich in vitamin A. Vitamin C is known to fight against cataracts and can be found in citrus fruits, cherries, and kiwi fruit. Omega- 3 rich foods are beneficial against dry eye disease. This nutrient can be found in krill oil, small fatty cold-water fish and wild Alaskan salmon.   Dark blue and purple fruits are also considered healthy for eyes. Bilberries, black currants and contain nutrients that benefit the eyes.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JANUARY 15th, 2023

UMC delays split of Northern Georgia conference
The National United Methodist Church is attempting to prevent a split in its organization. The organization has suspended the disaffiliation of churches in North Georgia. Leaders claim false information and secret meetings are being held without the church’s approval.  Among the accusations, leaders claim they are being accused of no longer believing in the divinity of Christ, altering the Apostle’s Creed, and forcing same-sex weddings in churches that resist this ceremony. The National Methodist church has experienced a split following the approval of same-sex marriage and openly gay pastors. The controversial measures prompted conservative and international branches to leave the organization. The northern Georgia branch of the UMC makes up nine percent of the Georgia state conference.  If approved this branch of the church will be a part of the UMC until the next conference until 2024.

Justice rules in favor of West Virginia law
A justice has ruled to uphold a law in West Virginia. The law is known as HB 3293 or the Save Women’s Sports Act. The state law banned biological males from competing in women’s sports in that state. A student later sued saying the law violated the constitutional rights of trans students under Title IX protections.  US District Court Judge Joseph Goodwin presided over the case. Goodwin of his opinion said in part, "The question before the court is whether the legislature's chosen definition of 'girl' and 'woman' in this context is constitutionally permissible. I find that it is….” Goodwin added that he did believe the law was created to politicize participation in school sports, however those suing against the law did not prove their case. Alliance Defending Freedom legal counsel Christiana Kiefer called the decision a win for reality.

SNBC NEWS UPDATE: W.H.O. moves forward with vaccine passports efforts
The World Health Organization is electing to move forward with a controversial plan . A committee within the organization the International Health Regulations Review Committee is reportedly making plans to move forward with meetings for this plan.  The plan signed by various countries around the world would require vaccine passports for each country’s citizens to travel abroad.  The  passport which could be a physical copy, or a digital copy would detail a person's vaccination records.  According to reports this could affect millions in part because of the treaty being signed  at the G20 summit. The group consists of 66 countries around the world including the US. The Biden Administration previously had claimed they would not condone such a requirement for US citizens.  Mr. Biden however signed the agreement known as the Bali declaration. Several patients’ rights groups here in the US have already condemned the treaty, calling it a violation of a person’s privacy concerning medical information.

SNBC HEALTH report: a recall has been issued for several blood pressure medications
Lupin Pharmaceuticals is issuing a voluntary recall for a blood pressure medication it produces. According to the recall report the drug Quinapril is being recalled by the company due to impurities found in the medicine. The impurities according to the company  can increase a person’s risk of cancer. The company says the patients should not stop taking the medication, but rather contact a health care provider to be prescribed an alternative. The medication in question was distributed between March 2021 and September 2022 with expiration dates between December 2022 and March 2024. They also report no illnesses have been reported related to this medication. This is the third recall issued for the drug Quinapril. The first recall was conducted by Pfizer in the summer of 2022, followed by two more recalls by Lupin Pharmaceuticals.

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.