Page 6 - Elise Moran

Energy drinks promise a quick boost - sharper focus, more energy, better performance. From late-night students to busy professionals and athletes, millions rely on them every day. But behind the flashy cans and caffeine rush, there's a growing question: Are energy drinks actually safe?

Let's dig into what's really inside these drinks, how they affect your body, and what to watch out for before you pop open your next one.

What's in an Energy Drink?

Most energy drinks have three key ingredients:

• Caffeine: The main stimulant, usually between 80-300 mg per can (for reference, a standard cup of coffee has about 95 mg).
• Sugar: Some contain up to 50 grams per serving - that's more than a can of soda. Sugar-free options swap it for artificial sweeteners.
• Additives: Ingredients like taurine, guarana, ginseng, and B vitams are common. They sound exotic, but their actual performance benefits are often minimal compared to caffeine.

The Good: Short-Term Benefits

When consumed responsibly,

October is here, and with it comes crisp air, falling leaves, and all things spooky. Whether you're a die-hard Halloween fan or just looking for a few festive touches, there are plenty of ways to make the season magical right at home.

Haunted House Vibes on a Budget

You don't need a fog machine and animatronics to create a spooky atmosphere. Try stringing up orange and purple lights, setting out faux cobwebs, and playing a Halloween playlist. A few strategically placed candles or lanterns instantly give your home a cozy-but-creepy glow.

DIY Treat Stations

Skip the store-bought cnady bowls and create themed "trick-or-treat" jars or boxes around your home. Think little cauldrons filled with gummy worms or mason jars labeled "Witch's Brew" (aka soda or punch).

Pumpkin Everything (Beyond Carving)

Pumpkin carving is classic, but you can also paint, bedazzle, or decoupage your gourds for a unique twist. Gold-painted pumpkins or black-and-white patterns look stunning as centerpieces.

Costume Challenge

Championship teams don't just play together - they look the part, too. From the practice field to the sidelines, having a unified look builds pride, professionalism, and team spirit. That's where custom online stores come in.

Instead of coaches and parents scrambling to collect order forms, checks, and sizes, an online store puts everything in one place. Players, families, and fans can order exactly what they need - whether it's a practice tee, a travel hoodie, or a sideline jacket - right from their phone or laptop.

Here's the best part: coaches don't have to do the heavy lifting. Once the store is set up, everything is handled - from ordering to delivery. That means less time chasing down paperwork and more time focusing on football.

Even better, team stores can be designed with fundraising built in. A portion of every purchase can go back into your program, helping cover costs for equipment, travel, or team meals. It's an easy way to raise money while keeping your players and fans geared

When it comes to sports, gear isn't just about performance - it's about identity. One of the easiest ways teams stand out on the field is with custom helmet decals. Whether it's football, lacrosse, hockey, or baseball, helmet decals bring personality, pride, and professionalism to a team's look. At Sportdecals, we've seen firsthand which decal styles are fan favorites and program staples. Here's a breakdown of the most popular helmet decals today:

Team Logos

The classic and most recognizable option. A bold team logo on each side of the helmet instantly establishes team identity. Logos are often the centerpiece of a helmet design, using vibrant colors, metallic finishes, or even 3D textures to grab attention under the lights.

Award Decals

Nothing motivates players like recognition. Award decals - also called pride stickers - are small symbols placed on helmets to reward individual achievements like big plays, touchdowns, or hustle. From stars and paw prints to custom shapes that match a

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month - a time when communities everywhere come together to spread hope, educate others, and show support for those impacted by breast cancer. One of the most visible and inspiring ways this happens is through custom breast cancer awareness shirts - and schools play a huge role in making this movement bigger every year.

Why Custom Shirts Matter

Custom shirts do more than look good - they carry a message. Whether they're bright pink, feature a ribbon design, or display a powerful slogan, they unite everyone who wears them under a shared purpose: raising awareness.

For students, parents, teachers, and athletes, matching shirts help turn a game, pep rally, or school day into a statement. When an entire student section is in pink, it's impossible to ignore the cause they're supporting.

Plus, many schools use custom shirts as a way to raise funds for breast cancer research and support services. Proceeds often go toward local hospitals, nonprofits, or families