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Teen Wins Veg Scholarship

High school student receives $5,000 scholarship for promoting vegetarian diet.


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Spreading the good word about vegetarianism? Now that’s something definitely worthy of a scholarship. Ryne Poelker, who graduated from Porta High School in Petersburg, Ill., received a $5,000 college scholarship from the Vegetarian Resource Group for taking a veg stand. While writing a short paper for a class assignment, Poelker discovered the truth behind how his food was made. Immediately, he ditched the meat and started to promote a plant-based diet, and is now fully vegan. Poelker has organized vegetarian potlucks and food drives as well as many protests against animal cruelty. He plans to promote meatless meals at the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he will study political science. Keep up the good work, Poelker!

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#148 2026 The Restaurant Issue
#148 2026 The Restaurant Issue
#148 2026 The Restaurant Issue

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