School lunches are a vital part of a student’s academic success. Studies like the National Institute of Health show that students who receive regular meals for breakfast and lunch are more likely to succeed in school. Studies have also shown that school breakfasts and lunches contribute to the student’s overall health according to the Food Research Action Center.

Students who receive free or reduced-price school lunches have a lower rate of obesity, lower rates of food insecurity, and better overall health. As a result, school lunches benefit not just the student but also benefits the community. Consuming breakfast can also contribute to maintaining a body mass index (BMI) within the normal range. 

Two systematic reviews report that children and adolescents who habitually consume breakfast [including ready-to-eat-cereal]  have a reduced likelihood of being overweight according to Szajewska and ´ruszczynski's study in 2013.

Breakfast consumption is also associated with other healthy lifestyle factors. Children who do not consume breakfast are likelier to be less physically active and have lower cardio-respiratory fitness levels (Sandercock et al., 2010). Moreover, there is evidence that breakfast positively affects learning in children in terms of behaviour, cognitive, and school performance (Hoyland et al., 2009).

This research is vital in realizing how food service teams at schools play such an important role in our children's lives and our community at LaPorte High School.

LaPorte High School lunch staff believes that adding more seasonings and improving communication could enhance the school lunch experience. 1One lunch lady shared, "A lot of the food is bland due to the lack of seasoning. And a little salt and pepper makes drastic a difference."

Beyond flavor, the head cook Cindy Miller mentioned open communication is a huge concern. 1"We don't hear much from students about what they like or don't like¨ Miller said. 

The lunch staff at LaPorte High School are more than just food service workers they are essential to student well-being and success. 

Their daily efforts ensure that no student goes hungry, that healthy food choices are available, and that the cafeteria remains a welcoming space for all. Beyond preparing meals, they provide stability for food-insecure students, promote lifelong healthy eating habits, and contribute to a positive school environment. 

Their hard work behind the scenes, from meal planning to ensuring food safety, keeps the school running smoothly. It is important to recognize and appreciate the time, care, and kindness they bring to their work each day.

Some lunch ladies find it enjoyable that their work schedules line up with their children's schedules and that they can potentially help the youth who don't get well-rounded meals at home. 

Preparation is something that is part of the daily routine for lunch staff and many enjoy making salad, Asian chicken, breakfast sandwich, the nacho bar, the burrito bowl bar, chicken tenders, and even french toast!

The lunch staff at LaPorte High School is a group consisting of hard-working staff dedicated to collaborating and serving, so thank you to our incredible lunch staff in preparing meals for us every day does not go unnoticed. We appreciate the time care and kindness you put into making sure students are fed and taken care of!

The launch of $TRUMP a meme coin introduced by President Donald Trump brought cryptocurrency back into the spotlight, according to NPR.org, starting from $10 on Saturday morning to as high as $74.59. Meme coins are among the wilder and more unregulated world, but what does it mean for something to be “decentralized”? 

At its core, decentralization means that cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum operate without a central authority, such as a government or bank. Instead, transactions are verified and recorded on a network of computers, known as a blockchain. This allows people to transfer money directly to one another, bypassing traditional financial institutions.

Supporters of decentralization argue that it promotes financial freedom and transparency. For instance, anyone with internet access can use cryptocurrency, giving people in countries with unstable currencies or strict banking regulations a way to store and exchange money. Additionally, because blockchain technology is public, anyone can view transaction records, increasing accountability.

However, the lack of oversight in decentralized systems also creates significant ethical concerns. Without regulation, fraud and exploitation can run rampant. According to the FBI’s 2023 Cryptocurrency Fraud Report, crypto scams are on the rise. “The launch of $TRUMP, a meme coin introduced by President Donald Trump, brought crypto into the spotlight. Starting from $10$ on Saturday morning to as high as $74.59, Meme coins are among the wilder and more unregulated," says Michael Nordwall assistant director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

This is leaving thousands of people financially devastated. The collapse of FTX, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges, is a prime example of what can go wrong. When the company could not meet withdrawal demands, billions of dollars vanished, and many investors lost their life savings.

Critics argue that without legal and ethical guidelines, decentralization becomes a double-edged sword. While it empowers individuals financially, it also enables bad actors to exploit vulnerabilities. Kevin Werbach, an expert on blockchain technology, points out that while blockchain offers transparency, it does not prevent fraud without proper oversight.

The debate over decentralized cryptocurrency raises important questions: Should financial freedom come at the cost of increased risk? How can we balance the benefits of decentralization with the need for regulation? These are questions that lawmakers and technology experts are grappling with today.

On one hand, decentralization offers a pathway to financial independence for individuals in countries with an unstable, oppressive government. It eliminates the need for intermediaries like banks, giving users full control over their money.1On the other hand, this opens the door to serious issues like fraud exploitation and market volatility. The anonymity provided by many cryptocurrencies has been exploited for illicit activities including money laundering and funding drug trades. 

Finding a middle ground is not an easy task stricter regulation risks undermining the core principle of decentralization, with that being financial freedom. At the same time leaving the crypto market unchecked could lead to more devastating collapses like FTX, where billions of dollars can disappear overnight this is a challenging decision policymakers have to make.

This balancing act is not a technical or financial question it is an ethical one how do we build a system that promotes freedom while holding people accountable? As the crypto market grows these questions will become increasingly important. 

Learning about cryptocurrencies and blockchain can equip students and youth with a deeper understanding of digital finances and the technologies that drive innovation today. As digital currencies move towards mainstream acceptance, being literate in digital finance will be valuable for our children of America.

The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, produces works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power. Rap music is a genre of music constantly dismissed as violent provocative and lackluster but this is simply not the case.

In 1993, Rev. Calvin Butts of Harlem’s Abyssinian Baptist Church organized a protest against rap music in which attendees steamrolled rap albums. “We will not stand for vile, ugly, low, abusive, and rough music,” he said. Meanwhile, African-American political activist C. Delores Tucker became one of the genre’s most outspoken critics. “What do you think Dr. King would have to say about rappers calling black women female dogs and holes?” she stated in 1996. “About rappers glorifying thugs and drug dealers and rapists? What kind of role models are those for young children living in the ghetto?”

Stereotypes are challenged when viewed as a genuine art form. Consider Chief Keef’s “Love Sosa” alongside Michelangelo’s David. Though seemingly unrelated, both are groundbreaking works of art that reflect the genius of their creators and the worlds that shaped them. Michelangelo’s David is a masterpiece of the Renaissance, a symbol of idealized human form, precision, and divine strength—a true reflection of humanity's beauty and potential. Similarly, “Love Sosa” is a cultural milestone, representing a genre and an artist who transformed the sound and direction of hip-hop.

Before he was arrested in December 2011, Chief Keef was a 16-year-old budding rap star. He’d released a song, “Bang,” with more than 400,000 views on YouTube and a mixtape that he’d recorded in a friend’s bedroom. He also had a dedicated Twitter following among Chicago high school students. 1The track displayed a rawness unlike anything else that was released at the time, and you couldn’t stroll down the streets of Chicago without hearing Bang’s lyrics pulsing from the stereos of cars rolling by Ye, who was almost completely unknown outside of Chicago. His Facebook profile had less than 2,000 followers, he claimed his occupation was “smokin’ dope” and he still lived with his grandmother. 1Chief Keef is hailed as a pioneer of drill music, which laid the foundation for the modern trap. His influence, extends far beyond Chicago, “Love Sosa” embodies his innovation, offering a glimpse into his world while connecting deeply with audiences across the globe. This artistry brought underground narratives into mainstream awareness, redefining rap's emotional and cultural reach.

Both David and Love Sosa provoke emotional responses—Michelangelo evokes awe with marble, capturing human perfection, while Chief Keef crafts a visceral narrative that conveys resilience, struggle, and triumph. Despite their differences, both works are testimonies to the power of art as a mirror to humanity. Whether in Renaissance Florence or modern Chicago, artists like Michelangelo and Chief Keef create works that resonate far beyond their time, forever shaping their mediums.

Nevertheless, the verses written and hastily disseminated on social media by Chief Keef and his peers quickly became a vessel of life as a Black kid growing up in the city. The songs became known as drill music, and artists like Chief Keef, King Louie, G Herbo, and Lil Durk – emerged as local heroes by staying tethered to the blocks and neighborhoods they rapped about on SoundCloud and YouTube. Eventually, the national press caught on and the coverage was often less than flattering.

A big focus of critics was anti-police lyrics, which appear most prominently in the late 1980s. Many described the police harassment, racial profiling, and police brutality that plagued inner-city neighborhoods across the country. However, the lyrics of the group N.W.A. attracted the most attention, which directly denounced the police in unequivocal terms.

Police unions denounced the song’s lyrics; some departments refused to provide security during N.W.A. shows, while the FBI sent a letter to the group’s label, Priority Records, calling the lyrics “discouraging and degrading to these brave, dedicated officers.”

Chuck D of Public Enemy called rap “the invisible TV station that black America never had.” Los Angeles Congresswoman Maxine Waters was one of the few politicians who recognized its power. In 1994, she came to rap's defense.

“It would be a foolhardy mistake,” she said, “to single out poets as the cause of America’s problems. … These are our children and they’ve invented a new art form to describe their pains, fears, and frustrations with us as adults.

Friedrich Nietzsche’s Beyond Good and Evil is a thought-provoking and, at times, polarizing exploration of morality, power, and human nature. The book challenges the traditional notions of good and evil, asserting that these concepts are not universal truths but social constructs designed to serve the ruling class while controlling the masses. Nietzsche’s critique of Christianity stands out as a central theme, with sharp remarks that question its moral framework and influence.

One of Nietzsche’s most striking ideas is his claim that Christian morality, or “slave morality,” is built on values like humility and meekness, which suppress individual strength and creativity. His wit and boldness shine in his criticisms, quoting “One should not go into churches if one wishes to breathe pure air.” While this sharp critique resonates with me and aligns with his broader philosophy of rejecting conformity, it’s clear that Nietzsche’s ideas are meant to provoke and challenge the reader, making the book a stimulating read.

However, Beyond Good and Evil is not without its flaws. Nietzsche’s dismissive attitude toward women is one aspect that cannot be ignored. He frequently describes women as deceptive and concerned only with appearance and beauty as seen in statements like, “From the beginning, nothing has been more alien, repugnant, and hostile to woman than truth.” While one might argue that Nietzsche was a product of his time, I find it hard to excuse these views, as they undermine his otherwise revolutionary ideas about freedom and individuality.

Despite these shortcomings, Beyond Good and Evil is an essential read for anyone interested in philosophy and the human condition. Nietzsche’s reflections on power, morality, and the nature of truth are as relevant today as they were when he wrote them. His famous warning, “Anyone who fights with monsters should take care that he does not in the process become a monster,” is a timeless reminder of the dangers of losing oneself in the pursuit of justice or power.

Ultimately, while I don’t agree with everything Nietzsche writes, I appreciate his willingness to challenge norms and encourage readers to think critically about the world. Beyond Good and Evil is a book that forces you to grapple with uncomfortable truths, making it a valuable, if imperfect, addition to philosophical literature.

While not in agreement with many of his ideas, Beyond Good and Evil is a work to read simply because it will make one go over their views on morality, power, and individualism. Through his audacious condemnation of the conventional, Nietzsche makes a fellow think about those uncomfortable questions of what we consider "good" or "evil" and why. The book, while perhaps disagreeing with Nietzsche's ideas, deeply furthers one's insight into how the culture and structures of power condition values. You engage Nietzsche's provoking arguments not only to rethink your mind but also for profound insight into humanity and philosophy. A read which will have you thinking, that may be the whole idea.

As a book lover of philosophy, I’ve always been a huge bookworm, and I love getting lost in ideology. There’s just something about exploring big ideas and asking deep questions that gets me thinking. Reading isn’t just something I do for fun; it’s how I learn, grow, and see the world in new ways. Recently I learned "There is no more beautiful spectacle than the intelligence grappling with a reality which exceeds it." Albert Camus's The Myth of Sisyphus applies wonderfully to its author, Reality is beyond us all, and the meaning of life is foreign to us. Those who believe in God and have chosen religion to honor Him have chosen the easy way. Everything is explained by Him and in Him. Death is only an opening to eternity in His kingdom.

In The Myth of Sisyphus, Camus tackles the theme of absurdism, exploring the conflict between human beings' desire for meaning and the indifferent universe that offers none. Using the myth of Sisyphus as a central metaphor, Camus illustrates the struggle against the inherent meaninglessness of life. 

The book begins with an essay that delves into the concept of the absurd a clash between our quest for significance and the universe’s silence. Camus argues that acknowledging this absurdity is crucial for genuine freedom. He proposes that rather than succumbing to nihilism, we should embrace life with all its challenges and find joy in the struggle itself. 

Camus draws a parallel between Sisyphus’s eternal task and the repetitive routines of human existence. He suggests that, like Sisyphus, we can find happiness in our awareness of our circumstances and our choices in response to them. By accepting our situation and taking ownership of our lives, we can transform our struggles into a source of strength.

I highly recommend The Myth of Sisyphus for anyone interested in philosophy, existentialism, or the human condition. Camus’ writing is both profound and accessible, making complex ideas understandable. This book is perfect for readers seeking to reflect on their lives and the meaning (or lack thereof) we often grapple with. Whether you're navigating personal challenges or simply curious about philosophical concepts, Camus's exploration of absurdity offers insightful perspectives that resonate deeply in today’s society. 

If you enjoy The Myth of Sisyphus, you might also like the works of Friedrich Nietzsche, a 19th-century philosopher. Like Thus Spoke Zarathustra, Nietzsche's writings challenge traditional beliefs, especially those rooted in Christianity. Instead of embracing the “slave morality” of humility and obedience, Nietzsche celebrates living fully in the moment, creating your own values, and embracing life’s chaos. His philosophy encourages people to rise above limitations and find their own path, making his works both inspiring and thought-provoking for those exploring existential ideas.

Most social media users are influenced by content that glamourizes unhealthy habits. Probably one of the most alarming trends is the rise in mukbangs and feeder content since this comes with influencers sharing videos of themselves consuming massive amounts of food. Born in South Korea, mukbangs started as entertainment but have spread worldwide with millions of views. Now the videos are fuelling concerns that they may encourage bad eating and unrealistic body images.

More than 40% of adults and nearly 20% of children in the United States have obesity according to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. This boom in obesity has been accompanied by a set of health complications related to heart disease, diabetes, and some kinds of cancers, all of which are directly connected with poor eating habits.

TikTok influencer @jellybean.sweets has amassed a huge following documenting herself consuming copious portions of fast food and often relentless promo of overindulgence. Although her content remains popular, there's a section of society that debates whether she is normalizing gluttony and encouraging people to have unhealthy relationships with food. Such material, critics say, could add to the growing U.S. obesity epidemic, already affecting millions. 

Feeder content is a subcategory of mukbangs in which one eats not just for the view of seeing large amounts of food being consumed but also intentionally to gain weight. The latter, however, is the more disturbing trend because it glamorizes overconsumption for the sake of entertainment. Feeder content creators also often use weight gain as a form of self-expression that can be dangerous for viewers especially for younger ones, who may start to feel that gluttony is no big deal or even something to be desired.

Nikocado Avocado, a YouTuber who rose to fame with extreme eating videos, became what’s known as a ‘lolcow’—someone who’s ridiculed online—for turning unhealthy choices into entertainment. Originally fit, he began eating massive portions of junk food on camera, rapidly gaining weight and dealing with the toll it took on his physical and mental health. His content earned him fame and money, but it also highlighted the dark side of chasing popularity at the expense of health. Recently, he’s lost weight and started taking steps toward a healthier life, showing it’s possible to turn things around. His journey is a cautionary tale about the costs of unhealthy choices, reminding us how important it is to put well-being first.

Gluttony is more often than not portrayed as overindulgence in food, but the concept of gluttony surpasses moral and religious teachings; to modern society, it's an unsafe relationship with food, the feeder content actually risks normalizing obesity, arguably one of America's most endemic health issues.1Another disturbing trend on TikTok involves influencers like @reecegoggins who eat highly caloric meals to then offset them afterwards with hard-core running workouts to "burn it off." It's the "eat it and then run it off" mentality, which might be appealing to some because it will perhaps suggest that one can eat anything they wish as long as they put in enough exercise. This approach is anything but healthy.

Apart from the tiny few, extreme workouts after extreme eating would work but could lead to major burnout, a set of injuries, and an improper relationship with food for most people. As opposed to promoting balance, these influencers unconsciously may lead their audience to live a life that is unrealistic or health-concerned; the focus will instead be on extreme measures. But most of all, a person has to come to terms with the fact that food is just fuel for our bodies, and yes, exercise is great, but not everyone in this world can overindulge and then over-compensate by over-burning those calories as a way of life.

Social media is a powerful medium in which behavior is molded, and the things we intake do have a lasting effect on how we feel about ourselves and our bodies. Mukbangs and extreme eating challenges are indeed wonderful forms of entertainment, but they in no way demonstrate the dangers of overconsumption. While obesity rates continue to rise throughout America, healthy eating, exercise, and self-care need to be promoted more than ever.

Instead of advocating unhealthy habits, there needs to be more talk of balanced diets, mental health, and the kind of fitness routines that are actually long-term viable. Health is about moderation, not extremities, and that needs to come across in the message online.

Back in 2004, U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona said, "Because of the increasing rates of obesity, unhealthy eating habits and physical inactivity, we may see the first generation that will be less healthy and have a shorter life expectancy than their parents."

I see firsthand how unhealthy habits impact my generation. Obesity has become one of the biggest threats to both our physical and mental well-being. For many young people, it leads to chronic health issues like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, all of which can shorten our lives. The effects aren’t just physical—obesity also brings emotional struggles, such as anxiety, low self-esteem, and social isolation. If we don’t make changes now, we face a future where we may live shorter, less healthy lives than our parents. Understanding the causes of obesity and choosing healthier habits could be the key to a happier, healthier future for us all.

What is Obesity?

According to the World Health Association obesity is a serious medical condition commonly measured by Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI measures weight concerning height. In adults, a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obesity. For children and teens, BMI is measured against others of the same age and sex; a BMI at or above the 95th percentile is considered "obesity."

Here is a link to a useful calculator to calculate your BMI.

What Causes Obesity?

There's no single cause. Obesity may result from causes involving genetics, diet, physical activity, and daily habits, such as:

Diet: Consuming foods with high sugar and unhealthful fat content, such as fast foods and sugar-added beverages, can lead to weight gain.

Physical Activity: Sedentariness favors weight gain, especially during the time they spend in front of screens.

Sleep and Stress: Chronic sleep deprivation and stressful situations also contribute to weight gain.

Environment: Limited access to healthy foods or safe places for exercise can make healthier choices difficult.

The more serious health consequences of obesity over time may include but are not limited to, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and even some forms of cancer. Young people experiencing obesity may face some physical challenges, including joint pain and breathing problems, and problems associated with mental health, such as anxiety and low self-esteem.

What Causes Obesity?

There's no single cause. Obesity may result from causes involving genetics, diet, physical activity, and daily habits, such as: 

Diet: Consuming foods with high sugar and unhealthful fat content, such as fast foods and sugar-added beverages, can lead to weight gain.

Physical Activity: Sedentariness favors weight gain, especially during the time they spend in front of screens.

Sleep and Stress: Chronic sleep deprivation and stressful situations also contribute to weight gain.

Environment: Limited access to healthy foods or safe places for exercise can make healthier choices difficult.

Steps Toward Healthier Living

Though the issues related to obesity may seem insurmountable, here are some simple, feasible steps you can take:

Stay Active: Try to do at least 60 minutes of usual physical activity like sports, dance, and even casual walking

Choose Balanced Foods: Try to fill half your plate with fruits and veggies, add lean proteins, and pick whole grains. Limiting sugary drinks and snacks can be helpful in that aspect also.

Quick and Healthy Recipes

Below are some easy recipes to make at home. These are healthy and delicious and only take minutes to make.

1. Banana & Peanut Butter Toast

Ingredients: 1 slice whole-grain bread, 1 tbsp of peanut butter, 1/2 banana sliced, dash of cinnamon

Instructions: Lightly toast the bread, spread peanut butter on it, and layer with banana slices. Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon for added flavor!

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait

Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup granola, 1/2 cup mixed berries-strawberries, blueberries, etc.

Instructions: In a bowl or cup, layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries. If you love treats a little sweeter, feel free to mix in some honey.

3. Veggie Wrap

Ingredients: One whole-grain wrap, two tablespoons of hummus, sliced cucumber, bell pepper, and lettuce.

Instructions: Lather hummus on the wrap, add the veggies, and roll.

Protein helps build muscle and keeps you full longer. Good sources include lean meats, eggs, beans, and dairy. It’s fundamental for weight loss because it reduces hunger and supports muscle while losing fat.

Knowing that my generation could be the first to have a shorter life expectancy than our parents is a wake-up call. This is why I feel so strongly about understanding the causes of obesity and spreading awareness about how small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Choosing healthier foods, staying active, and managing stress can be baby steps in the right, and I want us all to work toward a future where we can live longer, healthier lives together.

Some of the biggest health issues facing America are due to obesity, but there's hope. We can learn about its causes and effects and make choices that encourage a healthier and happier life. Remember, even the tiny changes-counting out water instead of soda or trying a new healthy snack can add up to big results.

Older than dinosaurs and trees, sharks have endured a lot throughout their 450 million years on Earth. They’ve even survived five mass extinctions, including the asteroid that wiped out 75% of life on the planet. But many species of these aquatic apex predators are now in danger of dying out forever.

Sharks have long been misunderstood and often feared creatures of the sea. However, these fascinating animals play crucial roles in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. The Greenland and Hammerhead sharks are two of the most intriguing shark species, each with unique characteristics that make them stand out in the underwater world.

According to the Shark Research Institute the Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) is a marvel of adaptation. Found primarily in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, this shark is known for its remarkable longevity, with some individuals estimated to live over 400 years, making it one of the longest-living vertebrates on the planet. These slow-moving giants can grow up to 24 feet long, but their mysterious nature means they are rarely seen by humans.

Greenland sharks have a distinctive appearance, with a rounded snout and small eyes, giving them an almost prehistoric look. They primarily feed on fish, squid, and even carrion, showcasing their role as scavengers in the ocean. Interestingly, their flesh contains high urea levels, making it toxic if consumed raw. However, it has been a traditional food source for Inuit cultures when properly prepared. A large majority of Greenland sharks are unfortunately blind due to a parasite called Ommatokoita elongates

In contrast, the hammerhead shark, particularly the great hammerhead (Sphyrna mokarran), is one of the most recognizable shark species. With its characteristic, flattened head resembling a hammer, this shark is a special figure in the ocean and an incredibly efficient predator. Hammerheads can grow up to 20 feet long and are known for their unique hunting strategies.

Their wide-set eyes give them a broader visual range, allowing them to spot prey from great distances. Hammerheads primarily feed on fish, including stingrays and smaller sharks, using their unusual head shape to pin down their prey against the ocean floor. They are also known to migrate long distances, often traveling in schools during the breeding season.

Despite their fascinating traits, both Greenland and Hammerhead sharks face significant threats. Overfishing, habitat loss, and climate change have led to declining populations. Hammerhead sharks, in particular, are often targeted for their fins, which are used in shark fin soup, a controversial delicacy that contributes to their endangerment.

As students and future leaders, it’s essential to understand the importance of sharks in our oceans. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these magnificent creatures and ensure they continue to thrive. Organizations worldwide are working to promote sustainable fishing practices, protect shark habitats, and raise awareness about the importance of sharks in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.

We can all help make a difference in shark conservation if not close to the ocean. Examples include support for sustainable seafood that helps reduce demand caused by overfishing greatest threat that sharks face. Sustainable Seafood Guides help in choosing seafood from suppliers who have a history of following sustainable practices, we indirectly protect shark populations along with other marine species that are often caught as bycatch.

Another effective measure is raising awareness. This can be done by talking to friends, and family, and even posting on social media; information should be shared regarding the importance of sharks and misconceptions should be eliminated. Many people still perceive sharks as merely dangerous predators; sharing the facts of how important they are in the ecosystem helps to change attitudes and further support protections for them. They act like health monitors of the ocean, and without them, most marine ecosystems would be completely out of balance.

Finally, consider contributing to or volunteering with organizations that are truly committed to shark conservation. Things like the PADI AWARE Foundation and WildAid have a host of events virtually, petitions, and resources for people to get involved with to help drive the change we need if we want to protect these creatures for future generations. We can also do this by being more aware and by making conscious choices in our daily lives that show we care about marine life. Such as taking shorter showers, using a rain barrel to collect water for your garden, turning off automatic watering systems in your yard when it rains, limiting laundry days to when you have a full load, and turning the water off while brushing your teeth. Turning off the faucet when brushing your teeth can save up to 8 gallons (30 liters) of water per day.