SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JUNE 9th, 2024

  Pro-Israel supporters gather at annual parade in NYC
An estimated 45-thousands participants gathered for a Pro-Israel parade recently in New York City. The parade featured New York City officials, dignitaries and family members of the hostages currently being held in Gaza. The parade took a more somber tone this year. Participants present called for the immediate release of the remaining hostages taken on October 7th. The Israeli Defense Forces recently confirmed the deaths of more hostages. The terrorist group Hamas attacked and killed 12 hundred people during the October 7th attacks. Participants say a rise in antisemitism across the US compelled them to participate in this year’s parade. The recent rise in Antisemitism in the US and around the world has emboldened the terrorist group Hamas.  The group claims they are on the right side of history and has vowed to destroy Israel. Israeli forces in response have vowed to destroy Hamas and are currently continuing their offensive in Rafah, the last Hamas stronghold.

Student says diploma withheld for witnessing the gospel to fellow graduates
A high school graduate say his diploma was withheld because he witnessed the gospel during his graduation speech. Micah Price says his diploma was withheld by his high school, Campbell County High School in Kentucky following his graduation speech. Price says during his speech he felt compelled to witness the Gospel to his graduating class. This part of his speech was in a previous draft, but it was taken out by school officials. Representatives for the school say the student was warned not to go off script. They further claimed a previous draft did contain the message of the Gospel but was changed so no one present at the graduation would be offended. The student says he was aware of the consequences but could not hold back sharing Christ to his graduating class. Price says he was eventually given his diploma after meeting with the school board and receiving his diploma was an answer to prayer.

NBC Streaming service debuts controversial documentary for “Pride month” 
Critics are protesting a new documentary debuting on Peacock this month. Peacock, the streaming service for NBC is debuting a special called, ‘Queer Planet’. The documentary claims to follow animals showing proof of same-sex relationships in the animal kingdom. The documentary debuted in June as part of the company’s Pride Month programming. Creators of the program claim it confirms the LGBT lifestyle is completely natural. A critic of the documentary called it , “scary”. The critic further added humans should not take their cues from the animal kingdom concerning behavior and interactions with others. The month of June has been declared as pride month by the LGBT community and advocates. Several retailers and companies advertise to this community during the month as part of brand diversity programs. Companies such as Target received severe backlash last year for their pride month displays. The backlash caused many companies to back off LGBT pride month advertisements. Wal-Mart recently debuted a pride month line on its website, but not in stores and with no major advertisements.

SNBC HEALTH report: the importance of iodine in the human body
According to reports iodine is an important micronutrient to the human body, but many are deficient in it. Known as an essential micronutrient, iodine aids the function of various areas in the human body. Iodine is necessary for thyroid function. It is essential to the skin, eyes, immune system and muscles. Researchers also believe that it may protect the body against some forms of illness. Although most doctors claim the average American consumes enough iodine, some nutritionists believe Americans do not consume enough of the micronutrient. Those on a low sodium diet, or if you drink non-dairy milk products may want to monitor iodine levels. You can intake iodine though supplements or through food. Seaweed, Greek yogurt, eggs, and liver are all food sources high in iodine.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JUNE 2nd, 2024

European nations announce recognition of Palestine
Three European nations have announced some controversial news. The nations of Norway, Spain and Ireland have announced they will recognize Palestine as a nation. Leaders from the three countries say they will recognize the Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as the capital. Critics quickly voiced opposition to this decision. Former US Ambassador to the UN and former US candidate Nikki Haley condemned the announcement. Haley said this decision has emboldened Hamas. A leader within Hamas released a statement thanking protestors around the world for demonstrations against Israel. The leader further added the terrorist group’s goal is to defeat Israel and dismantle the Zionist enterprise.

Hamas attacks major Israeli cities
The announcement to recognize Palestine as a nation was made following a recent attack by Hamas. The rocket attack targeted major cities in Israel including, Tel Aviv. The attack comes shortly after IDF forces killed a leader within the terrorist group. Israeli officials expressed regret that some civilians were killed in the attack. The IDF did confirm that the attack was outside of the special safety zone designated for civilians in the area. Hamas’ attack on Tel Aviv and other cities in central Israel is the first attack in four months. The attack was confirmed to have been fired out of Rafah. Israeli officials have launched an attack on Rafah the last stronghold of Hamas. The officials further added a response to the International Court of Justice demanding a ceasefire from Israel. Israeli officials say they will continue their offensive military operations in Gaza. Officials added Israel is not committing genocide, but fighting according to international law; this includes taking steps to evacuate and protect civilians according to Israeli officials.

Religious service allowed at national park after controversy
The national park service allowed a religious group to hold a special service at a National cemetery for Memorial Day. The Knights of Columbus, a Catholic organization, has held a memorial service annually during Memorial Day to honor soldiers. The service was denied this year by the National Park Service. The organization claimed there was a new policy prohibiting religious services. The Knights of Columbus were represented by First Liberty. Attorneys for the group noted national park service officials had allowed other ceremonies but denied this group, accusing the park service of religious discrimination. The park officials and the group later agreed to terms allowing the Knights of Columbus to hold their services at the cemetery. A lawsuit filed in the case was later dismissed following both parties’ agreement.

SNBC HEALTH report: Researchers are continuing to warn consumers about the dangers of soybean oil
According to research, soybean oil is a commonly used oil, and contains ingredients that are harmful to the body. The oil is known to have high levels of unsaturated fatty acids, which when broken down from cooking at high temperatures, can develop into carcinogenic material. Researchers in 2015 found mice that consumed a diet high in soybean oil increased in risk of weight gain, diabetes, and insulin resistance. The mice also developed a condition called fatty liver disease. Soybean oil can be found in several processed foods including chips, creamers, and mayonnaise. Researchers advise seeking out other kinds of oils to use for cooking and reading labels to avoid soybean oil in processed foods.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY MAY 26th, 2024

 ICC seeks arrest warrant for Hamas leader & Prime Minister of Israel
The International Criminal Court is seeking arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu and Yahya Sinwar, leader of Hamas in Gaza. The ICC claims both parties bear criminal responsibility for war crimes and crimes against humanity. The court prosecutor claims Hamas’ actions on October 7th warrant an arrest for their leader. He further added Israel’s military response, which includes claims of victimizing Gaza citizens, is the reason for the warrant for Netanyahu and his defense minister. Israel’s government has not responded to the news. Netanyahu previously said Israel will never accept any attempt by the ICC to undermine its right to self-defense. The warrants, if issued, are not recognized by Israel’s government, which is not a part of ICC statues, but countries that adhere to these statutes could be forced to detain officials who have an arrest warrant. The Biden administration says the US rejects the application for arrest warrants against Israel’s leaders. The administration went on to say what Israel is doing is not genocide, and there is no equivalent between Hamas and Israel.

Teacher settles with state of California after discrimination
A teacher in California has been vindicated when a court ruled in her favor after school officials claimed she violated several school policies. Jessica Tapia was fired from her school district in 2022 following various disciplinary actions by the school. According to the teacher, she was suspended for refusing to recognize students by their preferred gender pronouns and other requests. Ms. Tapia cited her Christian beliefs as her reason for refusing these requests. She was also accused of mocking students’ sexual orientation, gender pronoun preferences, and talking about the Bible with students. Other policies the district enforced required teachers to refrain from informing parents of students’ requests concerning gender and sexual orientation claims.  Attorneys for Advocates for Faith & Freedom represented Ms. Tapia in this case. The school district settled with the teacher for more than $300,000. Attorneys for the teacher say she was targeted because of her faith, and people of faith should be allowed to maintain their beliefs without fear of losing their jobs.

 Pro-Israel group finds venue after rejection from hotel
A pro-Israel organization recently changed its venue. The Israel Summit, which was scheduled to be held in Nashville, Tennessee at the Sonesta Airport Hotel, was held in Franklin, Tennessee last week at a venue owned by financial expert Dave Ramsey. Hotel officials withdrew the group’s invitation after receiving threats and intimidation from Anti-Israel groups. Media attention from the controversy increased attendance from 500 to over 2,000. Representatives for the Sonesta Hotel released a joint statement with HaYovel, one of the sponsors for the event. The hotel issued an apology, saying their top priority was the safety of its staff and guests.

SNBC HEALTH report: the health benefits of dragon fruit
Dragon fruit is an interesting looking fruit ; it comes in two colors, red and yellow, and is growing in popularity here in the U.S. Dragon fruit is popular in Central America and Asia and has several health benefits that can make it a welcome addition to your health regimen. It is rich in antioxidants, high in fiber, and helps lower blood sugar. It is high in vitamin C and good for the immune system. It may also help to boost iron levels in the body. Dragon Fruit aids in digestion, benefits eye health, and according to research, helps fight against anemia. It is usually safe to eat, but researchers advise being aware of any changes in your body after consuming new foods.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY MAY 19th, 2024

 “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.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY MAY 13th, 2024

Israel prepares to invade Rafah (located in Gaza Strip area)
The nation of Israel has positioned their forces to invade Rafah. The area located near the Egyptian border and the Gaza Strip, is the last known stronghold of Hamas. Hamas officials claimed they have accepted a ceasefire deal, but Israeli officials noted the deal they accepted was not on the table and the announcement is an attempt to gain sympathy from the public. Israel’s government has vowed to wipe out the terrorist group following their attack on Israel on October 7th of last year. Since Israel’s offensive against Hamas began, Antisemitism and hatred towards Israel has grown around the world. The Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that they will not stop until Hamas is destroyed.
Israel is the only democratic nation in the Middle East and has been continuously threatened by terrorists and enemy nations that want Israel destroyed. Iran recently attacked the capital of Jerusalem and has vowed revenge for Israel’s attacks against Hamas. Israel’s government has vowed that it will continue to protect the nation and its citizens. (SNBC NEWS NOTE) The nation of Israel’s military forces has issued warnings in various areas for citizens to flee the area. Some citizens have refused while others are being manipulated by Hamas (who use citizens as human shields) SNBC NEWS will update you as this situation continues to develop.

Pastor thanks God after miraculous interview in attempted shooting
A pastor in Pennsylvania is giving God praise after a security breach during Sunday morning service.
The incident was captured on the church’s livestream. According to witnesses, and Pastor Glen Germany a man approached the pulpit and attempted to shoot the pastor. The gun jammed as the man proceeded to try again. The man was quickly tackled by a deacon in the church and other church members. According to the pastor he spotted the man earlier prior to the beginning of his sermon and saw him approach as he began. Pastor Germany later spoke to the man as he was arrested. The pastor says the man, who was dealing with mental illness and demonic possession, says the voices in his head told him to walk into the church and kill the pastor. The man is being held on attempted murder charges and is suspected in the murder of a family member found in his home later that day. Pastor Germany says he spoke with the man and forgave him for the attempted shooting. Germany says he is grateful to God for protecting him and to his church members for their quick action to subdue the man. 

Church reports large outpouring of God’s spirit
A Church in Tampa Florida is giving praise to God following a large outpouring for baptism. The church, Grace Family Church in Tampa, Florida is reporting a major praise report adding to the ongoing stories of revival across the U.S. The church held their Resurrection Sunday service at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers football stadium instead of their church building in order to invite as many people as they could to Sunday morning service. 30-thousand people showed up to hear the message of the Gospel. Following the offer of salvation, 12-hundred people accepted Christ as their Savior. The church later held a baptism ceremony at a local beach; over 900 people were baptized, this included people on the beach who walked up and asked to know more about Jesus and to be baptized as well. The church is giving God praise for the outpouring of His spirit; an associate pastor with Grace Family Church says people, especially young people are hungry for the true Gospel of Jesus Christ and added a wave of revival is coming.

SNBC HEALTH report: The power of social interactions on the human body
The Bible says in Hebrews 10:25 (Amplified version) not forsaking our meeting together [as believers for worship and instruction], as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more [faithfully] as you see the day [of Christ’s return] approaching. According to research it’s important to take this passage to heart concerning your spiritual and physical health. The US Surgeon General reported there are health consequences associated with loneliness. According to Dr. Vivek Murthy loneliness can cause stress; stress can lead to other issues including heart disease, stroke, or cognitive health issues, such as dementia. Dr. Nicole Saphier reports that loneliness can also be contributed to how much time we spend on smartphones. Dr. Saphier encourages people to put down smart devices and make deeper face to face connections with people. The CDC reports people with social bonds have a 50 percent increase in survival rates compared to those with limited social connections. Having social connections decreases the rate of stress, anxiety, depression, promotes a healthier lifestyle, and improves sleep. Social connections can also reduce the risk of mental health issues and chronic diseases.