4January 2010Hi Times Issue 4 Vol. 101

New Year, New You: Chewing tobacco has consequences that most teens and users choose not to see, but in the end, this habit could end up costing a person much more than a can of chew. Teenagers are known for falling victim to trends. Whether it is the clothes they wear, the music they listen to or the videogames they play, teens are consis-tently pressured to fit in with their peers. The same is true for habits, such as smoking, that can be harmful to a person’s health. When one person sees another involved in an activity such as this, he or she is sometimes compelled to follow. While smoking, drinking and drugs have become more common than ever among high school students, chewing tobacco rates are also on the rise. “Association with others who chew tobacco (family-friends), peer pressure, experimentation and cool factor are contributing to the desire to chew,” said health teacher Mr. Eason. At La Porte High School, it’s not uncommon to see people with cans of chewing tobacco and even people who chew during their classes. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, a 2007 survey concluded that in high school, more than 13 percent of males and 2 percent of females were using smokeless tobacco. This rate of chewing tobacco is higher than that of adults. While people aged 18 to 25 had a 5 percent rate of using tobacco, only 3 percent of adults aged 26 and older were current users, according to the survey. “It is very difficult to stop, especially when they associate themselves with individuals who continue to use tobacco products,” said Mr. Eason. Two different kinds of smokeless tobacco are commonly sold. Chewing tobacco, which comes in long strands of whole leaves, is less popular, and teenagers in high school are more likely to use snuff, finely ground tobacco that is used by placing a “dip” between the cheek and gum. What teenagers don’t realize, or choose to ignore, are the negative effects of using these products. Serious complications can include cancer in the mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach or pancreas, and using tobacco can also lead to an increased risk in heart disease and high blood pressure. Other results are addiction to nicotine, tooth loss, stained teeth and bad breath. “I view it as one of the most preventable disease/activity in society,” said Mr. Eason. “Education and speakers affected by the consequences of tobacco use could be used to deter the use of tobacco.” Teenagers also don’t realize the social image that they are projecting. While some people find the habit fashionable and popular, others find it gross and undignified.

Cassy SwansonEditor-in-Chief

The real effects of chewing tobacco

January is National Stay Healthy Month, a time when people are buckling down to lose the extra pounds over the holidays and changing their life-styles to be better people. The month is devoted to healthy eating, practical diets, workouts and healthy choices. According to Healthy Choices 4 Life, a website devoted to mak-ing healthy choices, “It's never too late to start making healthy choices and living a healthy life full of vitality.” Many people make resolutions this time of year, the number one being losing weight. Within the first week of the new year, 25%

of the resolutions people have made have been broken. “I try to make resolutions, but I almost never keep them,” said sophomore Sam Keehn. “I usu-ally forget about them in about a month.” Experts, such as doctors and trainers, are posting tips on the web, in newspapers and other medical sources. “I don’t generally make an ef-fort to be healthy; it just kind of happens,” said junior Megan Nibert. Keep in mind that for many diets, calorie watching isn’t enough. To maximize weight loss, pair diets with exercising. “It’s not my goal to be active, but I’m in the Army,” said senior Chrissy Cox.

Sam HolifieldAds Manager

Healthy choices make healthy people As are all things in moderation, caffeine isn’t bad for one’s health. But when it is consumed in large amounts, serious side effects can occur. Caffeine is a mildly addictive, psychotic stimulant drug. This substance is found in cof-fee, tea, soda, chocolate, energy drinks and even certain medi-cines such as Midol. Side effects include restless-ness, anxiousness, dizziness, the inability to concentrate and headaches. “I had fatigue and a hard time focusing, and I was cranky,” said Janet Nevills, owner of Ladies Fitness Zone in La Porte. The highest point of stimula-tion from caffeine occurs within 30 to 60 minutes of consump-tion. However, this energy boost could last for more than four hours. If a routine caffeine intake is missed, not only is irritableness

an issue but also depression. “It can make me feel really good, but when it wears off, I get depressed,” said sophomore Cas-sandra Hite. While an addiction is diffi-cult to overcome, it is possible. Whether it’s eliminating caffeine from a diet altogether or over a longer period of time, there are many solutions. “I drink decaf coffee and have switched to drinking more decaf green tea for the antioxidants,” said Nevills. The key to consuming caf-feine is all about moderation. If consumed in smaller quantities, caffeine doesn’t have much of an impact on one’s life. Doctors also recommend drinking or eating caffeine in the morning and not at night. Caffeine at night will cause restlessness and cause you to be sleepy the following day. “…half an hour of happy, then suddenly your being woken up by a teacher and being sent to ISD,” said sophomore Zach Whi-tacre.

Courtney WestStaff Writer

Students face dependence on caffeine during school

Don’t make the mistake of offering Chelsea Burge, 16, a hot dog. Or, for that matter, a cheeseburger. The eco-con-scious LPHS junior became a vegetarian 5 years ago. Initial-ly, her parents treated it like a passing phase, placing bets on how long their daughter would last without eating meat. Chel-sea had to prepare special meals for herself since she wanted to maintain this lifestyle. “The first week was tough,” said Burge. “But there were so many people who didn’t believe I could do it, so I was really de-termined.” Her peers can relate. Sopho-more Lynndsey Swanson, who gave up meat about a year ago, suffers from a bratty brother who puts beef under her nose and says, “Eat! Eat!” Ignorance about vegetarianism can lead to ridicule, according to Olivia Steele, who has been a vegetarian since she was five years old. Many people have taunted her over the years. If Big Macs and pepperoni pizza once qualified as all-time favorite foods, they are fast making room for bean burri-tos and Boca Burgers. For the

Vegetarianism: Passing phase, popular craze or future wave?Brittany BelkiewitzStaff Writer

Natalie PritzNews Editor

Dream interpretations: What dreams might mean

Dreams are a series of images, ideas, emotions and sensations that occur during the REM, rap-id eye movement, cycle of sleep. But do dreams have specific meanings? Many people believe they do, interpreting dreams as a heart’s desire, whereas others argue dreams are simply imagination. “Dreams may be one way the brain consolidates memories. The dream time could be a pe-riod when the brain can reorga-nize and review the day’s events and connect new experiences to older ones”, said behavior change expert Dr. Mark Stibich. Dreams played different roles in ancient cultures. Many be-lieved “good” dreams were from God, where “bad” dreams were from the devil. Some even be-lieved a dreamer should follow any and all advice received dur-ing a dream. “I think dreams happen based of off memories or things that happen to you throughout your

day”, said senior Ashley Hazel-grove. In a typical night of sleep, a per-son dreams for about two hours and in that time frame has nor-mally four to six dreams. People tend to remember only one or two of their dreams. “Sometimes I’ll wake up and know I had dreams, but can’t remember much of them,” said Hazelgrove. Dreams can be very erratic and odd, but then there are common dreams many people can recall having. Some common dreams are falling, flying and being chased. It is said that dreams of falling represent an underlying fear or feelings of inadequacy, dreams of flying may be the ex-pression of feeling completely in control of one’s self or a de-sire to break free of a restriction and dreams of being chased may mean the dreamer wants to get away from something. “By engaging with your dreams and thinking about them you can determine what meaning might be conveyed for your life,” said Stibich.

“plugged-in” generation, veg-etarianism is now mainstream. According to a Harris Interac-tive poll, 3% of Americans ages 8-18 are vegetarians--meaning they do not eat meat, poultry, or fish. People transition to vegetari-anism for a broad spectrum of reasons, including to avoid the pesticides and contaminants in meat, to support animal rights, to reduce the risk of heart dis-ease and cancer and to eat cheaply. There are also strong environmental arguments in favor of vegetarianism, because raising animals uses more natu-ral resources than cultivating produce and grains. “I saw how horrible animals were treated in factory farms. It is just unnatural to eat animal flesh,” said Karen Ebert, senior. A vegetarian diet isn’t neces-sarily healthier. Someone who eats junk food yet avoids meat isn’t consuming a well-balanced diet. Mrs. Rice, a science teach-er at LPHS, said, “Humans are meant to be omnivores--meant to eat meat. Vegetarians need to be careful to get all of the nu-trients, like Vitamin B, iron, and amino acids, that they would normally get from meat.” Junior Tim Boulahanis agrees. “If they [vegetarians] aren’t well

educated, then they should prob-ably rock out the beef jerky.” In recent years, the meatless movement has seen a sharp in-crease in the number of young people willing to “pledge veg.” T-shirts proclaiming phrases like “Vegetarian Before It Was Cool” are a wardrobe staple, and most restaurant chains now of-fer meat alternatives. But does this dietary revolu-tion deserve to be dismissed as a passing trend? Sophomore Ryan Garwood certainly thinks so. “I think it’s stupid how people are only vegetarians for like less than a week. They need to make up their minds and not be influ-enced by what everybody else is eating…or not eating.” In its defense, vegetarianism has managed to hang on over the centuries. It originally began in Ancient Greece as a religious diet protesting animal cruelty. The likes of famous vegetar-ians Albert Einstein, Abraham Lincoln and Leonardo da Vinci continue to inspire present-day carrot crunchers. “Vegetarianism is not like a shirt that you’ll buy and then a month later give to Good Will because it is no longer ‘cool,’” declared Lynndsey Swanson. “Vegetarians are here to stay.”

National Stay Healthy Month also focuses on the healthy choic-es some people fail to make. Simple changes in everyday life can change lifestyles dramati-cally. “I compete in many sports, so it’s easier to keep up fitness,” said Nibert. Walking can be a better al-ternative to driving because it’s a workout and it will cut down pollutants that are known to cause asthma and other breath-ing problems. Healthy choices aren’t always ways to eat better and lose weight. Other choices that will help everyone are being green, making better choices such as wearing a seatbelt and making the world a better place.

Freshmen Jesse Hill, India Potter and Trenton Arndt showcase their caffeine dependence with coffee to start off the day.

Photo by Laura Rosenbaum

Photo by Cassy SwansonGrizzly is a popular brand of chew for teens.

Sources of Caffeine and Caffeine Content

Caffeine counts provided by http://www.medicinenet.com/caffeine/article.htm

Coffee Plain, brewed 8 oz: 135 mg

Instant 8 oz: 95 mg Espresso 1 oz: 30-50 mg

Plain, decaffeinated 8 oz: 5 mg

Tea Green tea 8 oz: 25-40 mg Black tea 8 oz: 40-70 mg

Soft Drinks Coca-Cola Classic 12 oz: 34.5 mg

Diet Coke 12 oz: 46.5 mg Dr. Pepper 12 oz: 42 mg

Mountain Dew 12 oz: 55.5 mg Pepsi-Cola 12 oz: 37.5 mg

Sunkist Orange 12 oz: 42 mg

Energy Drink Full Throttle, 16 oz: 144 mg

Red Bull, 8.5 oz: 80 mg

SoBe No Fear 158 mg

Chocolates or Candies Candy, milk chocolate 1 bar (1.5

oz): 9 mg Candy, sweet chocolate 1 bar (1.45

oz): 27 mg Cocoa mix, powder 3 tsp: 5 mg

Puddings, chocolate, ready-to-eat 4 oz: 9 mg

Medicine: Over the Counter

Excedrin: 65 mg Bayer Select Maximum Strength:

65.4 mg Midol Menstrual Maximum

Strength: 60 mg

Hi Times Issue 4 Vol. 101January 20105

Stay Healthy in 2010

SPEAKWhat do you do to stay healthy?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, Indiana is currently ranked as the 13th fattest state in the U.S., with an obesity rate of 26.3%. While personal definitions of the term vary, profes-sionals in the medical field define obese as “an abnormal accumulation of body fat, usually 20% or more over an individual’s ideal body weight.” Those who are 100% over their optimal weight are considered morbidly obese. Obesity is associated with countless harmful effects, some of which include increased risk of illness, disabil-ity, and death. “This has got to be addressed at home,” said Mr. Gan-gwer, LPHS health instructor and girls’ soccer coach. “After that, it has to be reinforced at school and in so-ciety. Society has to make more of a positive impact on young kids instead of just selling them sugar. Kids need to know what’s good for them.” With key legislation currently being debated in Con-gress, obesity is a hot topic. “This is a serious issue, because obesity causes more health problems, which calls for more healthcare fund-ing,” voiced Brandi Wiatrowski, a senior. Gangwer said, “I think when it starts really hitting the pocketbook of America, healthcare costs will become a big deal. It’s already on the rise. A very big part of my paycheck right now is going toward my health insur-ance, and I’m not a contributing factor. I know other Americans are, though. When the minority starts to dictate what the majority’s doing, I think people will finally get fed up and say, ‘OK. We’ve gotta do some-thing.’”

Overweight issues plague teenagers Brittany BelkiewitzStaff Writer

What is the root cause of all the extra poundage? Sophomore Jake Archambault expressed the opinion that today’s teens lack the motivation to alter their sed-entary lifestyles. “Teens don’t exercise enough. They would rather sit at home playing video games or be on their computer than outside,” he said. So, just how big is too big? “You’re simply too big when you can’t fit through the McDonald’s door,” joked sophomore Lizzy Wahl. “Seriously, though--if you can’t get in, you probably shouldn’t be eating the food.” In order to successfully lose and keep off weight, one’s lifestyle and behaviors must be modified. Treatment should focus on nutritious food choices, appropriate portion size, addressing overeating triggers and fre-quent exercise. “I think that more teens need to get off of the couch and do something,” said sophomore Angelica Kasper. “If one person gets up and becomes active, more people will follow in their footsteps.”

National Thank You Month comes around only once a year, and it happens to be in January. This year some students will be taking advantage of this month. “I think it’s a good thing because it puts people in a good mood, because everyone likes to be appreciated”, said senior Maddie Perkins, “I’m going to thank my dad by making a lot of cookies.” Thank you month comes to a surprise to some such as Hailee Bowser. “I have literally never heard of National Thank You Month. I think it should be promoted more,” said Bows-er.

Matt ReedStaff Writer

There can be many ways a person can say thank you. “I’m going to thank my family and repay them some-how,” said sophomore Daman Thomas. Thanking someone could be as easy as saying thank you or getting them a card. Pick someone and thank them in the simplest or most complex way one can think of. Some easy ways to thank someone are: buy them a small gift and simply say thank you; give them a hug; clean up their room; do something that should be done without being asked; send them a nice e-mail; bake some delightful cookies; or send them a letter. So this January, after coming home from school or wherever it may be, take the time and consideration to thank someone that has helped or made a difference in your life.

The cold weather has officially returned and the levels of outdoor exercise have come to a minimum. It’s time to get into the gym and keep that nice summer shape. There are many gyms located in the area that have much to offer. The LaPorte Family YMCA is located at 901 Michigan Avenue. It is open Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. They have many membership plans to fit the needs of any person; the plans go by three-month, monthly and yearly. The plans can go by family plans or single plans. The YMCA has much to offer. The wellness center has many workout machines and of-fers classes, fitness testing, personal training and nutrition counseling for members. Senior Ashley Jones said, “I have a membership to the LaPorte YMCA. I really like it there; I work out several times per week. They have a lot to offer and I plan on keeping my membership.” The Crossing is in LaPorte and located at 1203 Washington Street. The ages are 12 and older. They have a well-ness center, cardio mix classes, circuit training and personal trainers. The Crossing is open Monday through Friday 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon. It cost $30 per month for only the gym and $25 per month for just the classes. There is also a combine package they have available for $40. “I have never been here, but some of my friends work out there and go to a yoga class. They really enjoy it. They said that it is very clean and has a good environment,” Jones said. Anytime Fitness is a new fitness center opening in Michigan City, located at 4112 Franklin Street. They have average prices and are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. This can work with anyone’s schedule.

They offer personal trainers, private rooms with showers and around the clock safety and security.

Shelbi SmithStaff Writer

Centers in the area offer fitness options

First hour for most tends to be a drag. Most students don’t get as much sleep as they should these days. “I get about six hours of sleep a day during the week. Usually, I don’t have a problem getting to school and staying awake, but I think for most, it would be easier if we didn’t have to be in class so early,” said junior Austin Breitbarth. Many teens don’t eat breakfast. Eating breakfast in the morning is not only good for one’s health, but is said to help concentration throughout the day. “Over the weekend, parties are going on and everyone is hanging out. We usually don’t end up sleeping until like 3 a.m.,” said senior Taryn Collins. According to kidshealth.org, the average teenager should have anywhere from seven to nine hours of sleep each night. As teens grow older, that number decreases because the brain can function on less sleep as it matures. Distractions could also be a problem for one’s sleep schedule. Problems at home or stress from work or school can cause restlessness or fatigue. Because many seniors are 18 while they’re still in school, having a full time job also factors in lack of sleep. Once a student turns 18, it’s legal for them to work past ten on school nights. “I usually work all night, so when I come to school it’s hard for me to stay awake in classes even though I really want to,” said senior Andrew Murphy. Relax, take a breather and realize that a good night’s sleep can refresh and prepare oneself for a brand new day.

Emily JorgensonStaff Writer

Sleep patterns affect students

January brings a time to be thankful

Interviews by Matt ReedPictures by Alex Lopez

“Play sports and eat healthy.”

- David DuffinJunior

“I climb trees and stay outside.”

- Erica ArnoldSenior

“I excersise and snowboard!”- Jake Cornett

Freshman

“I eat an apple a day.”- Becca Biernacki

Senior

Fast food restaurants like McDonalds contribute to the overweight trend of Americans, especially teens.

Photo by Cassy Swanson

Photo by Cassy SwansonThe YMCA provides a local opportunity for people to stay fit.