Hey Latitude Reader,
You what you should do right now? You should drop that paper your grading and read this article here about the new design of the Sunchips Bag. Although not totally certified yet by the Biodegradable Products Institute, Frito-Lay claims the bag can completely break down within the span of 14 weeks. This may actually turn out to be more of a curse than a blessing; people could start to compost every chip bag they see, not having a sure way to tell if it is biodegradable or not. This is why 3 months after its release, bags will come with the official BPI stamp of approval on them. That is, if they're certified. Only time will tell. So tell everyone you know about the new bags and start composting.

-Paul H.

Hey Latitude Readers,
Take a break and read this article at (http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/01/100324-gorillas-extinct-africa-un-report/) about the possible extinction of gorillas in ten years in Central Africa. We need to be aware of this situation and do the best we can to help prevent the extinction of this species. Spread the word on to your family, your friends, your friend's family, your cousin, your sister, the crazy guy who lives down the block, the weird guy at the park, and anybody you know. Get the word out so we can try to prevent the unnecessary killing and murder of an amazing and interesting species like the ape.

-Cesar G.

Hello Latitude Readers,

Try reading this article at (http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Society/2010/0323/California-may-extend-smoking-ban-to-state-parks-and-beaches) about a piece of legislation that would fine people for smoking in California parks. We, the staff of the Latitude, are hopeful that the legislation will pass. If it does, the sentiment could spread to Austin and our parks would be free of smokers. It would be nice to visit a park with air completely free of smoking. Also, the legislation would discourage people from smoking in general for the ill will they receive. Once again, we hope the legislation passes so that one day Austin will have absolutely clean air in its parks.

-Matt G.

Barefoot Running: Medical Benefits

Who would have thought that all those countless days running barefoot when you were little was actually good for you? Check out my review of Austin's newest and healthiest running "challenge" in the next issue of The Latitude.

-C.G.

The PE Problem

Every highschooler in the city of Austin currently needs 1.5 credits or 3 semesters of P.E. to graduate. Do you think its a waste of time? Want to find out why you have to take P.E. and different ways to get your P.E. credits without actually taking P.E. at school. Well ready my upcoming article in the Latitude.

-Mason S

Are Cyclists Dangerous?

Are cyclists around Lady Bird Lake in Austin a danger to pedestrians? Could you be injured if you don't read this? Possibly. Are cyclists are costing the taxpayers money for the upkeep of the Lady Bird Lake Trails? Read my opinion piece to find out more about this important issue. This article is coming up before summer in the next issue of the Latitude.

-Matt G.

Barton Springs has Sprung

Barton Springs is a great place to spend time in Austin, but shouldn't you know why you should pick it over your neighborhood pool? Check out my review of Austin's favorite pool coming up in the next issue of The Latitude.

-Paul H