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USDA cancels food security report that anti-hunger advocates say showed the effects of food policies

9 months 1 week ago
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has canceled a report that hunger-fighting organizations say was “essential” data to see the results of federal and local policies aimed at ending hunger.  USDA, in a news release about the decision said the reports were “redundant, costly, politicized” and did “nothing more than fear monger.” Paige Chickering, vice chair […]
Cami Koons

Altonized Community Federal Credit Union Female Athlete Of The Month: Vivian Zurheide Leads Southwestern Volleyball With Talents

9 months 1 week ago
PIASA - Derek Dempsey, coach of Southwestern High School's girls volleyball team, highlighted the contributions of senior outside hitter Vivian Zurheide recently. Zurheide is an Altonized Community Federal Credit Union Female Athlete of the Month for the Piasa Birds. Zurheide has made a significant impact on the Piasa Birds' volleyball squad this season. "Vivian is somebody who does everything well," Dempsey said. "She is our best offensive weapon, and we use her a lot to help with blocking. She has a huge impact on our team." Zurheide has recorded 26 kills and 20 serving aces for the volleyball team this season. Her athletic talents extend beyond volleyball; she also excelled in softball during the spring 2025 season, hitting .537 with 36 hits. Additionally, Zurheide is an accomplished basketball player, averaging 10.9 points and 8.4 rebounds per game last season for Southwestern. Her versatility and consistent performance across multiple sports have made Zurheide a key contributor

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Tom Lane State Farm Insurance Female Athlete Of Month: Senior Taylor Brooks Is Leader For Civic Memorial Cross Country

9 months 1 week ago
BETHALTO — Taylor Brooks, a senior at Civic Memorial High School, is off to a strong start in the girls' cross country season. Brooks competed in three meets this fall, posting competitive times that signal a promising year ahead. On Aug. 30, 2025, Brooks finished 26th at the Civic Memorial Twilight Invite with a time of 23 minutes, 4.5 seconds. She placed 139th at the Granite Invite on Sept. 6, clocking in at 23:30.0. Most recently, she ran a time of 24:04.4 at the Edwardsville Invite on Sept. 20. “I am starting my senior year really well. I feel it is going to be a great season. I feel way faster than I have in the past few years,” Brooks said. In recognition of her performance, Brooks was named the Tom Lane State Farm Insurance Female Athlete of the Month for the Eagles.

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