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The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris are underway and athletes from around the world are competing for medals in individual events ranging from archery to wrestling and team events from artistic swimming to water polo. Becoming an Olympian requires more than natural ability, it takes proper coaching, endless practice, perseverance, and, of course, good nutrition. A common thread that connects top-notch athletes from around the globe is eating a healthy balance of foods.

On July 25, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) celebrates National Intern Day, a day to thank and honor all our hardworking interns. Interns play a vital role in the workforce and bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and enthusiasm to the dozens of USDA agencies and offices that they support.

You can’t help but see school supplies everywhere if you’ve been shopping during the last few weeks. Alongside purchasing new backpacks and notebooks, it’s essential to also stock up on lunchbox essentials that will keep your child’s homemade lunches safe: insulated soft-sided lunch bags, two cold sources and insulated containers for hot foods.

“It’s been great to have a team that’s not afraid to let me share my opinion, share my identity. I feel like in this space, I’ve been proud of who I am.”

Veterans Tsiltiyah Fogle and her husband Charles Fogle have transitioned from military service to a new mission: serving their community and helping those in need. For nearly two years, Tsiltiyah has been the driving force behind the eight-acre Ephrata Farm, just outside Racine, Wisconsin. Here they grow and sell organic vegetables and fruits and raise chickens, all with the aim of giving back to the community.

On June 18, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) held its Pacific Northwest Regional Equity Convening on the beautiful grounds of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s Tamastslikt Cultural Institute in Pendleton, Oregon. Nestled in the heart of rural communities, this event was more than just a meeting—it was a heartfelt gathering aimed at nurturing trust and forging partnerships essential for rural communities to thrive.

On June 13-15, USDA Equity Commission members and I participated in the 18^th annual Annual Minority Farmers and Land Owners Conference in Raleigh, North Carolina. The annual conference is an event that brings farmers, landowners, and ranchers together with agriculture industry experts, assisting on making informed decisions regarding farm enterprises and retention of land.

Being named a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) E. Kika De La Garza (EKDLG) Fellow means something different to each fellow. For Dr. Maureen Victoria, visiting assistant professor at Sam Houston State University’s School of Agricultural Sciences in Huntsville, Texas, it represented confidence, knowledge and inspiration. “It was life-changing,” she said. “It was probably one of the best weeks of my life.”

Growing up in Albany, Georgia, Bryan Hallman was surrounded by agriculture but had little exposure to the industry at school. He realized he was interested in pursuing a career in agriculture during his senior year of high school when a teacher told him about the U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) 1890 National Scholars Program.

Throwing a celebratory BBQ gathering this Fourth of July does not have to be stressful when it comes to the menu and food safety. As you prepare to welcome a large gathering of family and friends, keep these core food safety practices in mind: