By PVS student-blogger Louisa Richardson

The Blog Staff continues to plumb the depths of PVS’s relationship to coffee. Is it as simple as love-hate? Louisa sheds some light on our coffee-drinking habits, tastes, and associations.

Coffee is not something I have ever been allowed to have; however, apparently it is quite the controversial subject here at Palm Valley. Some people think that it is a great source of energy. Whereas others (Pip Watson) think of it as a “legalized drug.” Since I don’t drink coffee, I don’t have much opinion about it. The students and teachers at PVS do. Here’s what they had to say about America’s favorite morning drink.

Teacher Mr. Satterfield’s opinions on coffee: 

I think coffee, like most things, is healthy in moderation. There are people who have done great amounts of research on the subject who argue that coffee provides significant health benefits. There is also, I believe, a body of research (and common sense) that suggests too much coffee is unhealthy. Personally, I rarely drink coffee because I want the caffeine to work when I need it to, which is usually on a long drive. But most people I know well do drink it often, and only a few of them have what I would call a coffee problem.

Student Pip Watson’s one of two opinions on coffee:

While I cannot comment on the nutritional value of coffee, I do know it contains copious amounts of caffeine. Caffeine is an addictive, mind-altering drug which most people shrug off as something that provides energy.

Teacher Mr. Parsons comments on coffee:

Coffee is at the heart of many cultures, particularly in Europe, Africa, and the Americas, and it has been for centuries. Noteworthy individuals wrote poems and songs dedicated to the taste and effects of that little roasted bean. All around the world, coffee shops have sold this stimulating beverage to artists and their fans. These centers for creativity blossomed organically out of the thriving bean trade with South American and African nations. Famously Beethoven brewed his morning cup of Joe from exactly 60 beans, no more and no less. Many blame coffee for his often erratic and grumpy behavior. The downsides of coffee are not to be ignored. Drinking too much caffeine (the potent chemical that gives coffee its boost of energy) can make people irritable and can prevent a good night’s sleep. Folks can even become hooked on coffee; their entire mood depends on their next espresso. Let’s just hope it doesn’t arrive too latte (Dad joke intentional)!

Teacher Mr. Killeen’s thoughts:

On a scientific level, coffee has both benefits and issues when it comes to personal health. According to the Mayo Clinic, coffee may offer protection from Parkinson’s, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, liver cancer, heart attack and stroke.  However it can also lead to an increase in blood pressure which can also be problematic for people. Just like anything you consume, moderation and listening to the signs your body is sending you is important to maintaining good health.

Staff member Ms. Greer talks about coffee:

I think coffee, actually caffeine in general, is addictive but it is something I really enjoy. I love a cup of hot coffee in the morning or an iced coffee on a summer afternoon.

Student Olivia Puetz (or Olie) says:

I like coffee, but not black coffee because it tastes too bitter. I like sweet coffee like frappuccinos and lattes.

Student Brooklyn Hatrack believes:

I’ll be for real – coffee is disgusting. It’s so bitter and the taste never gets out of your mouth. It also doesn’t even energize you. Also, the breath of a coffee drinker is VERY distinct. It’s icky.

So, as you can see when asking the question “What are your opinions on coffee?” I found that a surprisingly large number of people do not think coffee is a good thing. This can only be proving my mother right.  Despite Starbucks’ success, I am definitely starting to think that coffee may not be so great after all.