Because of demonstrators, the lighting of the Olympic torch in San Francisco, CA has been rescheduled to be lit in an undisclosed location.
People have raised their voices over the world's involvement in the Beijing Olympic Games because of issues in Tibet.
It should be interesting to see how these games play out during the summer.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Then some and spring break meant I took a little break from my blog. But, I'm back!
So much has happened while I was "breaking." The most interesting, by far, was the story of the pregnant man. I'm sure you all have heard of it- Oprah screamed on channel 7 about it in her usual fashion- but if you have been living under a rock like me, search google.
Follow this link to a story of a "fake" pregnant man, the story of one man's parasite twin- a person living inside a full grown man since the time of his birth.
http://www.abcnews.go.com/Health/Story?id=2346476&page=2
So much has happened while I was "breaking." The most interesting, by far, was the story of the pregnant man. I'm sure you all have heard of it- Oprah screamed on channel 7 about it in her usual fashion- but if you have been living under a rock like me, search google.
Follow this link to a story of a "fake" pregnant man, the story of one man's parasite twin- a person living inside a full grown man since the time of his birth.
http://www.abcnews.go.com/Health/Story?id=2346476&page=2
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Finished my Feature
Today I finished my feature on teen obesity- all 1115 words, carefully chosen to construct my very first feature.
So, in honor of this, I decided to post this link.
Check it out, it's a link to Richard Wolffe's live-in feature on Michelle Obama, wife of democratic hopeful presidential candidate Barack. We received a copy in my print class, but it was a good one I wanted to share.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/112849
Enjoy the weekend- wish for warm weather!!
So, in honor of this, I decided to post this link.
Check it out, it's a link to Richard Wolffe's live-in feature on Michelle Obama, wife of democratic hopeful presidential candidate Barack. We received a copy in my print class, but it was a good one I wanted to share.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/112849
Enjoy the weekend- wish for warm weather!!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Lebron's controversial cover
Lebron James was the first African American man to be featured on the cover of Vogue for its April 2008 issue with supermodel Gisele Bundchen.
The issue, whose cover screams fitness, has gotten a lot of attention lately but not because of James's Vogue history making first.
The cover is creating conversation because of its resemblance to King Kong clutching leading lady Fay Wray, which many are calling racist.
Check out this link, that will lead you to the cover photo, to make your own opinions on the questionable cover.
http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2008-03-24-vogue-controversy_N.htm
The issue, whose cover screams fitness, has gotten a lot of attention lately but not because of James's Vogue history making first.
The cover is creating conversation because of its resemblance to King Kong clutching leading lady Fay Wray, which many are calling racist.
Check out this link, that will lead you to the cover photo, to make your own opinions on the questionable cover.
http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2008-03-24-vogue-controversy_N.htm
Monday, March 24, 2008
A Bit of Jared
I had the pleasure of interviewing Jared Fogle of Subway fame for my teen feature. Here's one question from this interview- you can see the rest when my feature is published!!
What options do you feel teens have to lose weight?
Jared says...
To lose weights, there are a few options. The first thing I always say, especially teenagers who are still growing, you talk to a doctor. A family physician or whoever you go to when you are interested in losing weight, especially when you are growing because your body is still growing. That is first and foremost, very important. I also think it is important to try to consult with a nutritionist or a dietitian. To really give you a better education as far as what kind of food you should be going for. I think every teenager should consult with a [doctor and dietitian] especially when they are losing weight.
I think whether its teenagers or adults of kids, I don’t think it’s rocket science. I think its still pretty basic as far as what your different options are. The two biggest things that come to my mind are changing your diet- teenagers tend to eat pretty bad.
There are two schools- you have your athletes in high school and what not, who tend to be quite healthy and watch what they’re eating and get plenty of exercise. Then you have some of the other kids who are not in the same boat.
Reexamining your diet as far as what you’re eating and what you shouldn’t be eating and are you getting enough exercise because those are the two critical components of losing weight.
With teenagers, I think it can be tough. They don’t have a lot of money, they’re busy, they’re trying to balance schoolwork and homework, trying to handle a part time job on top of that and then extra curricular activities, you’re trying to send out applications to colleges. There are all kinds of things teenagers have going on in their lives. I think it’s a matter of prioritizing it and saying “Hey you know what, I need to find time to commit to exercise and need to reevaluate what I am eating.”
What options do you feel teens have to lose weight?
Jared says...
To lose weights, there are a few options. The first thing I always say, especially teenagers who are still growing, you talk to a doctor. A family physician or whoever you go to when you are interested in losing weight, especially when you are growing because your body is still growing. That is first and foremost, very important. I also think it is important to try to consult with a nutritionist or a dietitian. To really give you a better education as far as what kind of food you should be going for. I think every teenager should consult with a [doctor and dietitian] especially when they are losing weight.
I think whether its teenagers or adults of kids, I don’t think it’s rocket science. I think its still pretty basic as far as what your different options are. The two biggest things that come to my mind are changing your diet- teenagers tend to eat pretty bad.
There are two schools- you have your athletes in high school and what not, who tend to be quite healthy and watch what they’re eating and get plenty of exercise. Then you have some of the other kids who are not in the same boat.
Reexamining your diet as far as what you’re eating and what you shouldn’t be eating and are you getting enough exercise because those are the two critical components of losing weight.
With teenagers, I think it can be tough. They don’t have a lot of money, they’re busy, they’re trying to balance schoolwork and homework, trying to handle a part time job on top of that and then extra curricular activities, you’re trying to send out applications to colleges. There are all kinds of things teenagers have going on in their lives. I think it’s a matter of prioritizing it and saying “Hey you know what, I need to find time to commit to exercise and need to reevaluate what I am eating.”
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Interview with Mrs. Clayton, Wall High School Nurse
This is an interview for my feature with the Wall High School nurse, Mrs. Clayton. Here are her thoughts on teen obesity.
Do you think obesity is a problem in the US?
I absolutely think it’s a problem in the United States. I think it has become more of a problem over the years in younger children, even younger than teenagers because of the inactivity, and a lot of the prepared and easy foods.
Do you think it is a problem in Wall?
I don’t think that Wall is any different from any place else. I think that a lot of the kids in high school come to the high school being overweight. I think some of the elementary school is where a lot of the problems start. There are tons of kids that are overweight.
How do you think teens should go about using weight?
I think anybody who wants to lose weight should do it in an intelligent, guided manner. In all my years of being a nurse, I’ve seen people lose dramatic amounts of weight on crash diets, only to gain that weight and then some. It seems that the only time that people lose weight and keep it off is when they adopt a healthy life style; a balance of good food and exercise. Eating a good balanced diet is the trick.
Do you think schools should be doing anything to prevent obesity?
I think they’re trying. Years ago they used to sell a lot of candy and cookies throughout the school and that has been stopped. The cafeteria has tried to give out healthier foods. I think we’re all in a hurry and maybe in our heart we would like to eat something more nutritious but fall into “Well, I have to eat quickly.” It goes for kids too, you have such busy schedules. It is much easier to pick up a bag of chips than it is to find something else. The school trying to make fast things available, healthy things available, they are doing their part. They have cut out soda. Soda is just calorie laden. I wish there were some other programs like walks around the building. Some more walking activities.
Any additional comments.
I think it is a problem and the earlier people develop healthier lifestyles and healthier eating habits, the quicker the problem will be resolved. It is not only for the cosmetic look- as you get older, obesity leads to diabetes, obesity leads to hypertension, high blood pressure. In an effort to ward off future problems, getting under control at a healthy age. The younger you develop a healthy lifestyle, the easier it is.
Do you think obesity is a problem in the US?
I absolutely think it’s a problem in the United States. I think it has become more of a problem over the years in younger children, even younger than teenagers because of the inactivity, and a lot of the prepared and easy foods.
Do you think it is a problem in Wall?
I don’t think that Wall is any different from any place else. I think that a lot of the kids in high school come to the high school being overweight. I think some of the elementary school is where a lot of the problems start. There are tons of kids that are overweight.
How do you think teens should go about using weight?
I think anybody who wants to lose weight should do it in an intelligent, guided manner. In all my years of being a nurse, I’ve seen people lose dramatic amounts of weight on crash diets, only to gain that weight and then some. It seems that the only time that people lose weight and keep it off is when they adopt a healthy life style; a balance of good food and exercise. Eating a good balanced diet is the trick.
Do you think schools should be doing anything to prevent obesity?
I think they’re trying. Years ago they used to sell a lot of candy and cookies throughout the school and that has been stopped. The cafeteria has tried to give out healthier foods. I think we’re all in a hurry and maybe in our heart we would like to eat something more nutritious but fall into “Well, I have to eat quickly.” It goes for kids too, you have such busy schedules. It is much easier to pick up a bag of chips than it is to find something else. The school trying to make fast things available, healthy things available, they are doing their part. They have cut out soda. Soda is just calorie laden. I wish there were some other programs like walks around the building. Some more walking activities.
Any additional comments.
I think it is a problem and the earlier people develop healthier lifestyles and healthier eating habits, the quicker the problem will be resolved. It is not only for the cosmetic look- as you get older, obesity leads to diabetes, obesity leads to hypertension, high blood pressure. In an effort to ward off future problems, getting under control at a healthy age. The younger you develop a healthy lifestyle, the easier it is.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
The Truth about Fat Camps - Interview with Colleen from Camp La Jolla in CA
The following is an interview with an employee Colleen of Camp La Jolla, a camp mainly for young adults who want to lose weight and become healthier people located in California.
What would you describe Camp La Jolla's purpose as?
Camp La Jolla is a health, fitness, and weight loss program which creates successful people by providing the fundamental tools for lifestyle change.
Considering Camp La Jolla's standards, what is overweight? Is there acertain weight for a certain height? How would you determine if someone is obese?
Overweight for children is defined as being above the 85th percentile for height vs weight, where obese is defined as being above the 95th percentile for height and weight. We use the standard growth charts that are available in every pediatrician's office as reference, and they can be used to help track progress, but it is not a criterion for admittance into our program. For our adult population, we refer to a BMI chart as a guide and to help them track their progress.
What aspects of life are altered when teens come to Camp La Jolla?
The main areas are increased self confidence, the ability to set and achieve goals, the ability to create and maintain positive relationships, and taking consistent action to create and maintain well being in their lives after they return home from camp.
What do you change most about a teen's diet upon arrival at camp?
The biggest change is not the type of food, but the quantity. We offer a variety of foods that can be see in restaurants, schools, homes,etc... The problem that many individuals, not just those that are struggling with weight, is the amount of food we eat. Even if the food is healthier choice, if too much is eaten you can gain weight.
When teens leave Camp La Jolla, what do they come away with? Do the effects of your camp last?
When teens leave Camp La Jolla they have an understanding of nutrition (portion control and healthy food choices),as well as behavior modification (do I eat when I am hungry, lonely,bored, angry, etc.). They also have an understanding of how behavior modification, nutrition, and exercise are all apart of a healthy lifestyle change. They have the support of family and friends when they return home which also implement the healthy habits they learned at camp for long term weight loss success.
What do you feel is the best option for teens when dieting? Do you consider surgery an option?
The best option for teens and for everyone striving to be healthier and/or to lose weight is to be sensible and realistic about their goals.We recommend focusing on making small changes in their day, choosing a healthier path. For example, if you are used to taking the escalator at the mall, try taking the stairs for a change. In terms of food, individuals should strive to incorporate all of the major food groups into their meal plan. There is no such thing as a"bad" food, and we focus on moderation as the key. It is okay to have your favorite foods, whether it is chips or chocolate cake, as long as it is in portion control AND it isn't an everyday occurrence. Eating a balance of foods focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is the way to a healthier meal plan.
What would you describe Camp La Jolla's purpose as?
Camp La Jolla is a health, fitness, and weight loss program which creates successful people by providing the fundamental tools for lifestyle change.
Considering Camp La Jolla's standards, what is overweight? Is there acertain weight for a certain height? How would you determine if someone is obese?
Overweight for children is defined as being above the 85th percentile for height vs weight, where obese is defined as being above the 95th percentile for height and weight. We use the standard growth charts that are available in every pediatrician's office as reference, and they can be used to help track progress, but it is not a criterion for admittance into our program. For our adult population, we refer to a BMI chart as a guide and to help them track their progress.
What aspects of life are altered when teens come to Camp La Jolla?
The main areas are increased self confidence, the ability to set and achieve goals, the ability to create and maintain positive relationships, and taking consistent action to create and maintain well being in their lives after they return home from camp.
What do you change most about a teen's diet upon arrival at camp?
The biggest change is not the type of food, but the quantity. We offer a variety of foods that can be see in restaurants, schools, homes,etc... The problem that many individuals, not just those that are struggling with weight, is the amount of food we eat. Even if the food is healthier choice, if too much is eaten you can gain weight.
When teens leave Camp La Jolla, what do they come away with? Do the effects of your camp last?
When teens leave Camp La Jolla they have an understanding of nutrition (portion control and healthy food choices),as well as behavior modification (do I eat when I am hungry, lonely,bored, angry, etc.). They also have an understanding of how behavior modification, nutrition, and exercise are all apart of a healthy lifestyle change. They have the support of family and friends when they return home which also implement the healthy habits they learned at camp for long term weight loss success.
What do you feel is the best option for teens when dieting? Do you consider surgery an option?
The best option for teens and for everyone striving to be healthier and/or to lose weight is to be sensible and realistic about their goals.We recommend focusing on making small changes in their day, choosing a healthier path. For example, if you are used to taking the escalator at the mall, try taking the stairs for a change. In terms of food, individuals should strive to incorporate all of the major food groups into their meal plan. There is no such thing as a"bad" food, and we focus on moderation as the key. It is okay to have your favorite foods, whether it is chips or chocolate cake, as long as it is in portion control AND it isn't an everyday occurrence. Eating a balance of foods focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is the way to a healthier meal plan.
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