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Members of the 2024 Farm Family of Year gather at the antique machinery museum they operate. From left: Anna Linville, Emma Linville, Maverick Linville, Taylor Linville, Jedd Linville, Wyatt Linville, Rosalee Linville, Michael Linville, J.C. Linville and Shannon Linville.

Above: Rosalee and Jedd visit the miniature horses with Wyatt and Michael Linville.

PHotos by mArk FreeLAND

Farm Family o F the year

Franklin farmers salute the old, embrace the new

story by Amy mAy | PHotos by mArk FreeLAND

FFamily, farming and history are the mainstays for the Linvilles — the 2024 Johnson County Farm Family of the Year. They farm corn and soybeans on approximately 1,000 acres in Johnson and Shelby counties, and own one-third of an Owen County farm.

They also co-own and operate Linville’s Antique Farm Collection at 1992 N. Graham Road.

J.C. Linville is one of five children and inherited the farming gene from his dad, Fred. He and his wife, Shannon, live east of Franklin in a rural area that is just beginning to see industrial development.

Other residents of the farm include a small herd of mini horses and mules, a team of Haflinger horses, a bunch of goats (all with “old lady” names like Mabel and Hazel, jokes Shannon), a couple of dogs, a rabbit and one free-range hen named “Chicken” that can be picked up and petted.

J.C. and Shannon have four children and two grandchildren. Michael, 29, the eldest, lives nearby with his 8-year-old daughter, Rosalee. J.C. said after he retires, Michael will likely take over the farm. The father and son run the farm together now.

Their son Wyatt, 27, is married to Taylor, and they have a son, Jedd, 18 months, and live in Whiteland. Their youngest son, Maverick, 25, married Emma, and they live in Salem, Indiana. Their daughter, Anna, 23, lives in Franklin.

The Linville kids grew up working on the farm and started having their own responsibilities at age 13. All of them are 10-year 4-H’ers and were involved in showing goats, which the Linvilles still have. Anna received the prestigious “Pride of the Barn” award at a very young age.

“At age 16, their granddad gave them a truck and we told them they could work here or get a part-time job anywhere,” J.C. said.

Although three of them chose different paths as adults, all the kids come to the farm to help during planting and harvest, Shannon said.

“We are a very close family. We take trips together. We’re together a lot. We’re very fortunate people. Our kids work very hard in all their jobs,” she said.

Now, as empty nesters, J.C. and Shannon are grateful for Michael’s contribution to the farm. J.C. usually plants the corn, while Michael plants the beans, hauls the grain to market and helps with other farm tasks like mechanical work.

“Michael is J.C.’s right-hand man. He can take care of everything,” Shannon said.

A love story

J.C. and Shannon married young — he was still in high school when he proposed. They met in downtown Franklin, cruising around the courthouse square. She is a Center Grove High School graduate and studied business and fashion merchandising at Indiana University. J.C. is a Franklin High School graduate and studied diesel mechanics at Lincoln Tech and took farrier courses in Kentucky. After they married, they lived in Shelbyville for a while before moving to Franklin.

Shannon chose to be a stay-at-home mom, and she does the books and payroll for the farm business and pitches in as a driver during the harvest and planting seasons — the busiest times for a row crop farmer. She also does the mowing at their home, the museum grounds and at the property they own in Owen County and helps organize events and hosts at the museum.

“I always told my parents I wanted to be a farmer’s wife,” Shannon said. “We were very young when we got married and very young when we started having children. I don’t regret that. It’s been a great life. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

The Linvilles love farming. For J.C., it gives him the ability to make his own life.

“It’s the freedom to get out and do what you want to do … putting seed in the ground and watching it grow,” he said.

For Shannon, it’s about her kids.

“It’s seeing my family happy and knowing I raised our kids to be hardworking and responsible. Even if they don’t work in the farming industry, it’s knowing they will do well in life.”

Leaving a legacy

Fred and Helen Linville, J.C.’s parents, lived nearby and he grew up in the area. Fred was born in Iowa, but his family moved to the Fairland area, where he graduated high school and met his wife, Helen.

He was a third generation, lifelong farmer, operating primarily in Shelby and Johnson counties.

“When Fred was 5, his Dad had a John Deere A and rigged a rope to the hand clutch so that (Fred) could drive it,” J.C. said.

Fred and Helen moved to Johnson County, where he worked as a farm hand for a while.

“Dad was working for a lady on a farm and was able to buy her equipment for $500,” J.C. said. “From there, he just kept working and building.”

Fred and Willy Kasting owned K&L Grain and operated it from 1968 until 1995. He had the foresight to buy ground north of Franklin, anticipating the growth there and was the developer of the 400-acre Franklin Business Park. He was a founding member of the Johnson County Economic Development Corp. and served on the city planning commission and board of zoning.

He was a founding member of the Indiana Trail Riders Association and enjoyed mules, another love he passed down to his son. Fred rode his own mule down the Grand Canyon. He and Helen traveled extensively, visiting the seven continents and all 50 states.

“At his funeral, half the county showed up. They knew him or had worked for him,” J.C. said.

Fred died in December of 2020, and Helen died a few months later in May of 2021.

Preserving the past

Many farmers have an interest in antique farm machinery and have an old tractor or two at their place, but the Linvilles have taken it a step farther and created a museum, Linville’s Antique Farm Collection. Two pole barns were built in 2018 at Commerce and Graham roads on what was Fred’s farm. They host a wealth of artifacts — a collection Fred Linville amassed most of his life and J.C. continues to enhance. When his parents were alive, he traveled all over the country picking up items at Fred’s request.

J.C. served as board member of the Johnson County Antique Machinery Association as a director and vice president.

The museum contains a collection of over 50 horsedrawn wagons, more than 20 restored antique tractors and many implements and tools that our ancestors used to work the farm. Fred Linville collected the items over the past 50 years. When he died, the collection was passed on to J.C. and his sister, Charlotte, who lives in Bradenton, Fla.

J.C. and his family continue the tradition of acquiring interesting, old farming equipment and tools to showcase them. The family especially enjoys attending

auctions and coming home with a new treasure.

“I just want people to understand the way it used to be. People take it for granted now. Farming used to be a lot of hard work,” J.C. said. “Stores are not where food comes from. It would be good if a lot more people knew that.”

Some of the more unusual items they have include an 1840 antique horse-drawn hearse, complete with an antique coffin in the back, a small, colorfully painted oxcart from Peru, a fancy Black Diamond stagecoach that would look at home in a Clint Eastwood western, a couple of milk delivery trucks, a horse-drawn police coach with a small jail cell in back, a row of “Little House on the Prairie” style covered wagons, and the first diesel tractor to come to Johnson County, a McCormick-Deering purchased by Myron Brunnemer in 1936 for $2,400.

Visitors can try out the old-fashioned corn sheller which is mounted to a bin. Stick the corn cobs in one at a time, hand crank it and the kernels come off. The corn sheller and the large tractors seem to be the biggest draw for youthful visitors, J.C. said.

If you go

Linville’s Antique Farm Collection, 1992 N. Graham Road, Franklin, will be open noon to 3 p.m. on April 21, May 19, June 23, July 21, Aug. 18, Sept. 15 and Oct. 20.

There is no admission price and reservations aren’t necessary during the above dates and times.

Visit the antique machinery

The museum is open once a month from April to October. Special events and group tours can also be arranged. J.C. said Kid City, a nearby day care, is a regular visitor, as are area assisted living centers. Last year, attendees of the FFA convention in Indianapolis were bused down to visit, ending up with 600 to 700 kids in a few days. The Linvilles designed a scavenger hunt for the kids, where they used their phones to take photos of specific items in the two buildings.

The museum is surrounded by farm fields, and Fred’s barn can be seen in the distance. J.C. and Michael will sometimes take the tractors out and let the guests see them at work. J.C. said nearly all the antique equipment still runs.

“Dad wanted it open every weekend, but we can’t do that. But we’re real flexible about (opening it) unless we’re in the field,” J.C. said.

Even if you don’t visit the museum, you may have seen some of the Linvilles’ tractors and carts. They usually bring something to display at the Johnson County Fair, and they recently showcased some of their tractors at the county’s bicentennial celebration in Franklin.

“We also do parades. We take the tractors and the wagons. This year, we will be hauling the 4-H queen’s court,” Shannon said. The girls will ride in an open, white “Cinderella carriage” in the 4-H parade before the Johnson County Fair.

To ask about scheduling a group visit at any other time, contact the Linvilles through Facebook Messenger. Search “Linville’s Antique Farm Collection” for their page.

For the older people who come on the nursing home/assisted living tours, J.C. can tell the experience brings back memories for them, especially when he sees someone taking a long look at a particular piece of equipment.

“You can tell by the look on his face, he spent a lot of time on that piece,” he said.

Some of their historical carts are pulled by tractors or trucks, but for an extra nod to times past, horses can be used on occasion.

The Halflinger horses were purchased by Fred and now live at J.C.’s home. The matched set can pull wagons, while smaller carts can be pulled by the miniature horses. This year, their granddaughter Rosalee might be allowed to drive a small cart herself in the 4-H parade.

J.C. and Michael also work every year at the fair’s demolition derby, pulling stuck cars out of the mud with an antique tractor, a 1955 John Deere 70 purchased by J.C.’s grandfather and brought over from Shelby County.

Opposite page: The family pets the miniature horses and poses on an antique tractor. Left: J.C. and Shannon Linville stand under a photo of his parents, Fred and Helen, at the museum. Above: Wyatt and Jedd check out a tractor.

Day set aside to learn about, celebrate ag

What Is Ag Day?

It’s a day to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by agriculture. Every year, producers, agricultural associations, corporations, universities, government agencies and countless others across America join together to recognize the contributions of agriculture.

When Is Ag Day?

Ag Day is celebrated on March 19, 2024. National Ag Day falls during National Ag Week.

Who hosts Ag Day?

The Agriculture Council of America hosts the campaign on a national level. However, the awareness efforts in communities across America are as influential — if not more — than the broad-scale effort.

Again this year, the Ag Day Planning Guide has been created to help communi-

ties and organizations more effectively host Ag Day events.

What Is Ag Day all about?

Ag Day is about recognizing — and celebrating — the contribution of agriculture in our everyday lives. The National Ag Day

program encourages every American to:

• Understand how food and fiber products are produced.

• Value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy

• Appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products.

Why celebrate agriculture?

Agriculture provides almost everything we eat, use and wear on a daily basis. But too few people truly understand this contribution. This is particularly the case in our schools, where students may only be exposed to agriculture if they enroll in related vocational training.

By building awareness, the Agriculture Council of America is encouraging young people to consider career opportunities in agriculture.

Each American farmer feeds more than 165 people ... a dramatic increase from 25 people in the 1960s. Quite simply, Ameri-

can agriculture is doing more — and doing it better. As the world population soars, there is an even greater demand for the food and fiber produced in the United States.

What can I do to help?

Put simply, get involved! Your participation in Ag Day is critical in helping us spread this positive message about agriculture. If you are interested in planning an event, download your Planning Guide today. Of course, there are other ways you can lend your support, including sending a letter to your local newspaper, calling your Congressional representatives or simply sharing information about agriculture with youngsters in your community.

more information?

Contact the Agriculture Council of America at 913-491-1895 or visit agday.org or #AgDay24

with

governor celebrates farming with proclamation

Gov. Eric Holcomb has proclaimed March 19 as National Ag Day in Indiana.

“Agriculture is the backbone of our rural communities, and this sector is a large employer of Hoosiers and contributes so much to our state, both economically and socially,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “Today, we not only celebrate all Hoosiers involved in any capacity, but we thank them also!”

National Ag Day, March 19, and Ag Week highlights agriculture’s contributions to our state and local economies and allows producers, agricultural associations, corporations, universities, government agencies and countless others across America to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by American agriculture.

Indiana is the ninth largest agricultural producing state in the country. The state has over 94,000 farmers, and agricultural production is valued at over $18 billion. Indiana farmers cultivate over 14.6 million acres and establish over 47,000 soil conservation practices each year which kept an estimated 1.8 million tons of soil

in the farm fields.

Indiana’s top commodities are:

No. 1 producer of popcorn, gourds and duck

No. 2 producer of pumpkins

No. 3 producer of spearmint, turkeys and total eggs

No. 4 producer of peppermint and soybeans

No. 5 producing state for corn and hogs

No. 6 producer of watermelons

No. 10 producing state for maple syrup and hemp for floral (CBD and other cannabinoid usage)

“Indiana’s agriculture breadth is deep and wide. We have traditional row crop farmers and animal producers, we have farmers who grow popcorn for movie theaters and corn for tortilla chips, we have food manufacturers who make snack cakes that are beloved worldwide, and we have organic farmers and farmers that sell directly to restaurants and consumers,” said Don Lamb, ISDA director. “My favorite part about agriculture in Indiana is that everyone has a seat at our table. Today, we honor them and extend our gratitude.”

Farm F resh F ilets

Local shoppers can buy beef direct from the producer

story by GreG seIter | ADobestoCk PHotos

If perceived customer demand is any indication, the beef cattle market is strong in central Indiana. However, for multiple reasons, some local farmers are hesitant to expand their operations.

“Livestock is a hard business to be in,” said Keegan Poe, owner of Poe Quality Meats in Franklin and its only full-time employee. “I’m a one-man band here and just keeping fences up is a challenge. In fact, that’s one of the most expensive parts of the business.”

Expansion is also unlikely at Mallow Run Winery in Bargersville, where Mallow Run Premium Beef is sold thanks to the efforts of business partner Steve Duke.

“We share in the venture and sell our half through the winery, mostly through repeat customers” said Mallow Run co-owner Bill Richardson. “We rarely promote beef because it sells out pretty fast.

“We are somewhat limited on space, and the labor requirements would probably prohibit expansion without hiring additional help.”

With a background in the cow/calf business, Poe started selling beef whole cuts, halves and quarters in the early 2000s. With a desire to go further into the retail side of that business, he established a small shop—a converted garage—on his existing farm where today, he continues to sell beef by the

pound and chuck roast along with wholes, halves and quarters, by appointment only.

“I’m not open every day because I have another full-time job,” he said. “Business is fine but I would obviously like to sell more or get more consistent sales.

“At the size I’m at right now, this is a supplement for me. I don’t lose money and I wouldn’t be doing it if I wasn’t making a little on it but it does take some time.

“Here in this area, it’s almost impossible to expand. It seems like everyone is working against agriculture.”

Costs associated with feeding cattle also discourage some farmers from growing their business.

“Feed prices continue to rise, which is a blessing for the crop side of things but hurts on the cattle side,” Richardson said. “Selling direct to consumer helps avoid the commodity market pricing.”

According to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service 2023 State Agricultural Overview, Indiana’s livestock inventory for cattle (cows, beef) stood at 180,000 as of Jan. 1, 2024.

While many consumers continue to purchase meat from local grocery stores, there appears to also be strong interest in buying directly from farmers.

“Everything we hear is the flavor of our beef is

superior to grocery store options,” Richardson said. “This could be due to the way we raise and feed them. Plus, we make sure the beef is aged a while before cutting. Aging leads to a more mature flavor but the downside is lower weight due to evaporation.”

Poe agrees.

“The big difference between store bought and direct-from-farm is flavor and tenderness,” he said. “It has to do with the way the carcasses are handled after processing.

“What makes home grown taste better is subjective but we’re able to dry age carcasses. Large plants don’t have the refrigeration capability to do that.”

According to Poe, the “sweet spot” for aging beef is 14 days.

“That’s where you will get the max yield—most editable and tenderness combined. If you want to go longer than 14 days, you will get more tenderness but less yield. You’ll have to trim off a lot but it will be very tender.”

Beef flavor is also impacted by farmer feeding practices and grain has traditionally been the preference for both Poe and Mallow Run. However, Richardson said Mallow Run is also experimenting with grass.

“We have a few that will be grass-fed this year, staying on pasture and hay only, so we’ll be able to

see how that changes the texture and flavor profile,” Richardson said. “Grass fed should be leaner with less marbling. It may even have more Omega-3 than grain fed.”

Poe continues to be a firm believer in grain feeding.

“It’s the most efficient and economical way to get the right size and fat composition,” he said. “Fat gives flavor.

“Cattle love grain. Corn is like candy to a cow.”

Are there nutritional differences between store-bought beef and meat that comes directly from a farmer?

“All beef is safe and nutritious regardless of whether it comes from a store or from me,” Poe said. “I’ve had people come out here and bash on grocery stores in the past and I try to get them to stop. Grocery store beef is safe. It’s not worse than mine. It’s just different.”

Poe said labels that detail the nutritional value of a given package of meat can be misleading and hard to understand.

“You can’t tell the whole story on a little label,” he said. “For example, when

a label says no hormones were used and it stops there, it’s simply untrue. Every living thing has hormones in it. Now, if you want to say no hormones were added, I’ll give you that.”

According to Poe, the word “natural,” as it appears on nutritional labels, can also be confusing.

“The USDA has a definition but if somebody asks you to define ‘natural’ in regards to a beef product, your definition is probably going to be different than mine,” he said.

“Sometimes, folks get caught up in using fancy buzz words like ‘natural.’”

Overall, Richardson and Poe believe there are many reasons why some customers seem to prefer buying their meat from area farmers.

“I think customers love and appreciate knowing where their food comes from; that it’s local and that it’s not coming from a factory,” he said.

“I’ve heard comments like ‘It was the best steak I’ve ever had’ so I truly believe we are producing very high quality ‘restaurant quality’ beef.”

StAte FFA

indiana officials celebrate National FFA Week

In honor of National FFA Week, the seven Indiana FFA State Officers and dozens of FFA members met in the Statehouse to receive a proclamation and resolution declaring Feb. 17-24 Indiana FFA Week.

“It was a pleasure to have these outstanding young professionals representing the state of Indiana and agriculture so well in the Statehouse,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “FFA is a dynamic youth led organization and I am excited to celebrate National FFA Week this week and agriculture year-round.”

Gov. Eric Holcomb signed a proclamation to name the week National FFA Week in recognition of all the work the Indiana FFA Organization, agriculture educators and FFA advisors do to cultivate the next generation of agriculturists for the state.

During the week, chapters across the state and nation hosted a variety of events to educate, advocate and celebrate the agricultural industry. From a school animal experience to a farmer’s breakfast, these activities pay homage to the dedication and commitment of today’s agriculturalists. Throughout the week, the Indiana FFA state officers traveled the state to participate in activities alongside local FFA chapters and their communities.

The Indiana FFA Association also received a Senate concurrent resolution highlighting the impact of the FFA Organization, which is preparing more than 14,000 mem-

JOHNSON cOuNtY FFA

across the country and here in over 220 communities across the state,” said Rudd. “We are honored to have the support of our state’s legislature not only during National FFA Week, but throughout the year as well.”

Tamara Ketchen, director of the Indiana FFA Association, looked forward to seeing all the work done at FFA chapters across the state.

“National FFA Week is a time for local chapters to highlight their programs showcasing their success and passion for agriculture,” Ketchen said. “We also use this as an opportunity to recognize community supporters and broadcast the mission of the organization.”

bers in 90 of Indiana’s 92 counties for the over 250 unique careers in the food, fiber and natural resource sectors. The resolution was led by Sen. Jean Leising, Senate District 42 and Rep. Michael Aylesworth, House District 11.

Indiana FFA State Reporter Carson Rudd was excited to meet with legislators to promote Indiana agricultural education.

“National FFA Week is a week full of celebration and a time to reflect on the significance the organization has

FFA members are agriculture’s future leaders, future food suppliers, future innovators and more! Whether it is through service projects or community gatherings, National FFA Week is a time for FFA members to raise awareness about agricultural education and the role the National FFA Organization plays in the development of agriculture’s future leaders.

The first National FFA Week was held in 1948, when the National FFA Board of Directors designated a weeklong celebration to recognize George Washington’s example and legacy as a leader and farmer. For the past 75 years, FFA members across the country have taken part in agricultural, leadership and service-based activities during National FFA Week.

Visit www.inffa.org to learn more about Indiana FFA.

sUbmItteD ArtICLe AND PHoto

The 2023-24 Indiana FFA state officers, from left: Blaine Wagner (North Decatur FFA Chapter), Kelby Roberts (Rushville FFA Chapter), Conner Keeslar (Prairie Heights FFA Chapter), Tanner Weakley (Western Boone FFA Chapter), Carson Rudd (Carroll at Flora FFA Chapter), Madalyn Denton (Blue River Valley FFA Chapter) and Caden Sixberry (Southmont FFA Chapter).

The Johnson County FFA chapters recently participated in state competitions.

Top left: The Indian Creek FFA’s Novice Team competed and won State Champions in Chapter Meeting.

Left: The Indian Creek FFA’s Senior Team placed fifth in the state for their Chapter Meeting.

Above: Whiteland Community High School FFA Chapter won State Champions in Milk Quality judging.

growing together to fight food insecurity

TThe Purdue Extension Nutrition Education Program (NEP), Purdue Extension Master Gardener Program and additional Purdue Extension staff unite to tackle food insecurity through the Growing Together community donation gardening initiative. Together with eight other states, 600,000 pounds — 1.8 million servings — of fruits and vegetables were grown and donated to 878 food distribution sites during the past 3 years.

This has increased access to produce for 375,000 clients!

In 2023, Johnson County was one of 14 counties in Indiana awarded a Growing Together mini grant. The purpose of this funding is to enable Purdue Extension Master Gardeners, in collaboration with the NEP, to engage in gardening projects which increase the availability of healthy foods to families with limited resources.

The goal of the Johnson County project was to expand a donation garden at the Mt. Auburn Church Trafalgar Campus by adding four new raised beds. The fresh produce was regularly donated to the Trafalgar Branch of the Johnson County Public Library, which has a free produce stand in their lobby during summer months.

Low interest loans available for small meat processors

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development, alongside the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) announced that small and very small meat processors in need of funding can apply for a loan via ISDA.

“This loan program is a first of its kind for our Indiana State Department of Agriculture and I am excited to support them in this unique opportunity for Hoosier agribusinesses,” said Lt. Gov. Crouch.

The Indiana Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program (MPILP) is a $15 million revolving loan program that assists Indiana meat and poultry packers and processors with access to affordable capital for meat expansion projects. This intermediary lending program addresses critical meat expansion needs, which developed and have continued since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program will support local livestock producers by allowing their market ready

livestock to be processed within their communities and help to reduce processing delays. ISDA will be working closely with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), who will serve as the intermediary lender. ISDA is also partnering with the Indiana Small Business Development Centers (ISBDC) who will assist in development of meat expansion projects and loan packages with local meat packers and processors.

“This program is a big step forward in allowing farmers to process their livestock locally,” USDA Rural Development Indiana State Director Dr. Terry Goodin, said. “It shows the importance of investing locally and allows rural Hoosier livestock producers to send their market-ready livestock without delays.”

The Indiana Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program will open for applications on April 1. For information, contact David Coates at dcoates@isda. in.gov.

Additionally, nutrition education and cooking programs were offered for community members which highlighted the produce being harvested from the garden.

The four new raised beds yielded 185 pounds of produce. As with many projects, community partnerships are vital to ensure success.

The following community members were instrumental and their support is appreciated: Indian Creek High School Agricultural Education Program, Hadwell Hardware, Trafalgar Country Gardeners Club, Mt. Auburn Church, and the Johnson County Public Library – Trafalgar Branch.

Erin SlEvin iS thE Community WEllnESS Coordinator, PurduE ExtEnSion nutrition EduCation Program. ShE Can bE rEaChEd at ESlEvin@PurduE Edu. thE PurduE ExtEnSion nutrition EduCation Program WorkS to makE thE hEalthy ChoiCE thE EaSy ChoiCE WhErE familiES livE, lEarn, Work, and Play. thEy foCuS on fivE arEaS nutrition, food SafE ty, food SECurity, PhySiCal aC tivity and food rESourCE managEmEnt. viSit httPS://WWW EatgathErgo.org/ to lEarn morE

to diet or not to diet?

Which one to pick is the question

TThere are many reasons to consider going on a diet. Losing weight is just one factor. It may not even be the most important factor. Do you want to have more energy? Are you struggling with digestive problems such as acid reflux?

Has your doctor warned you about your cholesterol levels? Does your family have a history of such health conditions as heart disease, diabetes, or hypertension?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you may want to change your eating habits. It may be time to try going on a diet. But which one?

So many diets, so many choices. They seem to come and go with the seasons. In the 90s and early 2000s, low fat diets were the rage-until it became apparent most people didn’t lose weight on them. Then along came the Atkins diet, the South

Beach diet, intermittent fasting, raw food dieting, and other types of diets. In addi tion, there are terms like “pescatarian” and “flexitarian,” which refer to types of diets. So many opportunities for confusion! What’s a potential dieter to do?

Understanding dietary term definitions and what specific diets involve will help shed light on an often murky subject. The more knowledge you have about diets and dieting terms, the better equipped you’ll be in your decision-making process.

Here are definitions of some common dietary terms and descriptions of some current popular diets supported by many (but not all) healthcare professionals:

Vegan: someone who avoids eating any food derived from animals (eg. no meat, dairy, eggs, etc.)

Vegetarian: someone who does not eat meat, and sometimes other animal products also

Pescatarian: someone who does not eat meat but does eat fish

Flexitarian: someone who follows a primarily but not strictly vegetarian diet all above definitions from oxford english dictionary online

Ketogenic diet: a low carb, high fat diet that offers health benefits such as weight loss and improvements in overall health, according to many studies.

See www.Healthline.Com/nutrition/ ketogenic-diet-101 for more information.

Paleo diet: includes fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, eggs, nuts, and seeds, which people in the past obtained by hunting and gathering. Many short-term, small studies suggest this diet may help manage weight loss, cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure.

See www.Mayoclinic.Org/healthylifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/indepth/paleo-diet/art-20111182 for more information.

Mediterranean diet: typically includes fruits, vegetables, bread and other grains, potatoes, beans, nuts, and seeds, olive oil, and low to moderate amounts of dairy products, eggs, fish, and poultry. According to the US News and World Report Annual Ranking of best diets, this diet gets top billing. Many health organizations and dieticians regard it as one of the healthiest diets as well.

See www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/ healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/mediterranean-diet for more information.

Before starting any diet, a hugely important first step is to discuss diet options with your primary care physician or nurse practitioner. Each particular diet typically has risks as well as benefits. For instance, some diets might pose risks of negative interactions with certain prescribed medications. Allergies and food sensitivities present additional risk factors. Your medical providers will educate you on factors specific to your health profile and how a specific diet may impact your overall health goals.

Scheduling a consult with a boardlicensed dietician or registered nutritionist may be an excellent next step. Ask your primary care provider for a referral. Many insurance plans cover these types of consults. Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage, then ask for referrals to local dieticians/nutritionists. Food matters! We all have to eat. But how we eat matters as well. Changing your eating patterns offers potential to vastly improve and maintain your overall health. The choice is literally yours. And you can make informed choices about the best diet for you by consulting with your team of healthcare professionals.

linda Clutz, ma, lmhC, l CaC iS thE ExtEnSion EduCator, hEalth and human SCiEnCES ShE Can bE rEaChEd at 317-7363724

rooted in tradition, growing into the future

TThis year is a very special year for Johnson County 4-H as we are celebrating 100 years of 4-H in Johnson County.

A special committee was created to come up with a year long schedule or celebrations and fundraisers.

Kicking off the celebration we hosted a 4-H bock party in September. This event included food trucks, bounce houses, a car show, cupcakes and a concert by Blue River Band.

The next event the committee planned was the 4-H Centennial Historical Reception in March. This event included a glimpse of the history of 4-H through artifacts and various speakers.

The last event will be a celebration at the 2024 Johnson County Fair that will really celebrate our 100 years.

With any special event you have to have monetary funds to make these events possible.

In 2023, we established the Johnson County 100 Club which is a special club that anyone can be part of (past and present). These club members pay $100 and get to be listed on our 100 Celebration website, invited to the special events and will receive a special 100 club lapel pin.

We have revitalized our Brick Program where fami-

4-H apparel.

In addition to the 100 Club members receiving a special 100 Club lapel pin, all 4-H members and approved 4-H volunteers through 4-H online will receive a special commemorative pin. These commemorative pins will also be available for purchase should someone want one that isn’t a current 4-H member or approved 4-H volunteer.

It is also not too late to enroll in Johnson County 4-H for the 2024 year. Regular 4-H is for youth in grades 3-12 and the program fee is $25.

We also offer Mini 4-H for youth in grades K-2; there is no program fee.

If you are interested in enrolling in 4-H please visit www.extension.purdue.edu/johnson for more information! You can enroll in 4-H by going to https:// v2.4honline.com

lies/individuals can purchase bricks with a personalized message and have them installed at our 4-H Centennial Park area.

Other fundraisers for this special celebration included a 100-Year celebration candle that was designed and created through a partnership with Middle David’s Candles, a 100-Year wooden ornament and 100 Year

hEathEr doughErty iS thE County ExtEnSion dirEC tor and 4-h youth dEvEloPmEnt ExtEnSion EduCator JohnSon County. ShE Can bE rEaChEd at 317-736-3724 or hdoughEr@ PurduE Edu.

Ag NeWS

Purdue extension Friend of extension awarded to max Fitzpatrick

Max Fitzpatrick was awarded the Purdue Extension Friend of Extension Award this year and was recognized at the annual Purdue Extension Professional Development Conference in December 2023. Max was a huge member of the Johnson County 4-H program and he served 70 years until he passed away last summer.

Max had been a volunteer with the Johnson County 4-H Honor Group since its beginning in 2005. This group is made up of 4-H’ers in their last year of the program. The 7-month, summer-intensive, is designed to allow 4-H members the opportunity to choose a project to better the 4-H program, seek funding and then physically complete the project. Max worked with hundreds of members through this group and was right beside them to paint buildings, plumb bathrooms, landscape areas, re-roof buildings, build display boards and even promote 4-H to younger children. He was extremely supportive of these young people and had a genuine bond with them as they begin college and even later in life. Max’s dedication to the 4-H Honor Group is what makes it unique and keeps this club strong.

Not only had Max volunteered with the 4-H Honor Group, but he also served as a 4-H Tractor Leader for 70 years, and started the Tractor Club in 1952.

Max was instrumental in developing the Johnson County STAR Fund. This is a grant application process for 4-H members, volunteers and clubs to use toward something educational. The funds for this were raised through participation with Dancing with the Stars, where Max served on the fundraising committee.

Local soil and water districts awarded over $2.3 million

The Indiana State Department of Agriculture and the State Soil Conservation Board awarded $2,313,287 in matching grant funds to 26 projects within soil and water conservation districts and soil health organizations through the Clean Water Indiana program.

The Clean Water Indiana program is administered by the state’s soil conservation board. The program, led by ISDA, provides financial assistance to landowners and conservation groups that are working to reduce runoff from nonpoint sources of water pollution, whether it’s on agricultural land, urban areas or eroding streambanks.

Indiana remains a top agricultural state according to new census

According to the newly released agricultural census data from The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Indiana remains a top agricultural state, with agricultural products valued at over $18 billion.

The Census of Agriculture is a complete count of U.S. farms and ranches and the people who operate them. Even small plots of land — whether rural or urban — growing fruit, vegetables or some food animals count if $1,000 or more of such products were raised and sold, or normally would have been sold, during the Census year. The Census of Agriculture, taken only once every five years, looks at land use and ownership, operator characteristics, production practices, income and expenditures.

New free soil sampling program coming to life for Indiana farmers

The Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) and partners throughout the state have worked with the Gulf Hypoxia Program (GHP) to develop a no-cost

program with a focus on increasing the knowledge and use of soil sampling as a nutrient management practice to benefit farm operations. The program, titled Indiana’s Mississippi River Basin Soil Sampling Program, is open now for applicants.

ISDA promotes the importance of nutrient management and the principle of the 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework. The 4R framework incorporates using the “Right Source, Right Rate, Right Time, and Right Place” to achieve cropping system goals. The new program focuses on soil sampling and testing because it is a key component, and first step, of developing a plan for nutrient management.

Soil sampling provides an assessment of the soil’s fertility which can be used for making fertilizer application recommendations, assessing available nutrients over time, increase farmer profitability and enhance environmental protection by reducing the risk of nutrient loss.

“This free program for farmers will help them assess their land so they can continue to produce as much food as possible with fewer fertilizer inputs. As a farmer myself, I know how critical that is,” said Don Lamb, ISDA director. “This program would not be possible without a few incredible partners whose top priority is assisting Hoosier farmers and keeping Hoosier land in great shape.”

This program includes row crop fields, pastures and specialty crops located within Indiana’s portion of the Mississippi River Basin. Participating landowners will be prioritized by fields that have never been soil sampled and fields that haven’t been sampled regularly (i.e., within the last 3-4 years). Further prioritization may be implemented based on interest in the program. This program excludes hobby gardens and private lawns. Interested farmers can sign-up online at ISDA’s website or by reaching out to soilsampling@isda.in.gov.

ISDA is accepting sign-ups until April 17.

Grants awarded for specialty crop research

The Indiana State Department of Agriculture announced three Indiana specialty crop projects received a total sum of $446,169 through funding provided by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP).

“Agriculture is big business in Indiana and is incredibly diverse, and these projects are no different,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “This funding will allow the specialty crop sector in Indiana to flourish for years to come.”

Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits and horticulture and nursery crops. For a full list of specialty crops please visit ams.usda.gov

Annually, Specialty Crop Block Grants are available to nonprofit and for-profit organizations, governments, public or private colleges and universities for up to a threeyear project term and will fund specialty crop research, education and market development. To qualify, projects must aim to benefit the industry as a whole, rather than one product, individual or organization. Applications undergo a competitive scoring process, including review by an external scoring committee.

Some of the projects awarded this grant cycle include Bloomington’s Slaughter Orchard and Cidery’s efforts to reduce waste by promoting the use of ground harvested apples for hard ciders. Purdue University projects will develop a technique that will allow honey producers to ensure the quality of their products and create a produce food safety program for small fruit and vegetable growers.

“I am excited to help other orchards recognize the potential economic value of ground apples to make hard cider. These apples can be put to use for economic gain where otherwise they would have become waste,” said Clay Slaughter of Slaughter Farms. “

FArm ServiceS DirectOrY

Agriculture and Natural resources — extension educator

Provides the latest scientific information in horticulture and agriculture production, management, and marketing to urban, suburban, and rural people.

Conducts continuing education programs with consumers, home gardeners, agricultural producers, and distributors. Oversees community development programs that study problems, needs, and goals of the community.

County Extension Director, Extension Educator, Agriculture/Natural Resources, Johnson County Extension Office, 484 N. Morton St., Franklin, IN 46131, 317-7363724.

Animal and Plant Health Inspection service

Responsible for preventing the entry and spread of exotic pests in the United States and eradicating those that enter. If you are planning a trip overseas and want to know what agricultural items you can bring back, call your local APHIS representative Nick Johnson, 701 W

Madison St., Suite E, Franklin, IN 46131, 317-736-6822.

Community Wellness Coordinator

Community Wellness Coordinators collaborate with organizations and individuals to make the healthy choice the easy choice where we live, learn, work and play. Examples include working with local coalitions on community gardens, school and workplace wellness, trails, farm to school initiatives, increasing healthy food access and more.

The Purdue Extension Nutrition Education Program works to improve the nutrition and health of audiences with limited resources within five focus areas: nutrition, food safety, food security (hunger), physical activity and food resource management (stretching food dollars).

Erin Slevin, Community Wellness Coordinator, Johnson & Morgan Counties, Nutrition Education Program, Purdue Extension, 484 North Morton Street, Franklin, IN 46131, 317-736-3724.

Info: eslevin@purdue.edu

Division of Forestry, IDNr

Provides free forest management assistance to any private landowner in Johnson County, including management planning, timber sale advice, tree planting plans, insect and disease control, maple syrup production.

Responsible for administering the Indiana Classified Forest Program, which provides a property tax reduction as an incentive to manage timber and wildlife habitat on parcels greater than 10 acres.

Info: http://findindianaforester.org District Forester, Zachary Smith at 317232-4117 zsmith@dnr.IN.gov

Division of Fish and Wildlife, IDNr

Assists landowners in developing wildlife habitat through technical advice and management plans. Offers financial assistance through Game Bird Habitat Development Program and Wildlife Habitat Cost-Share Program. Also provides technical advice for dealing with nuisance wildlife.

Info: http://www.in.gov/dnr/ fishwild/2352.htm or Erin Basiger, South Region Landscape Biologist, 765-2763047 or ebasiger@dnr.IN.gov

Farm service Agency

Responsible for administering federal farm subsidy programs. Other programs include price support loans, dairy program, facility loans and the Conservation Reserve Program, where cost-sharing on conservation practices is done with landowners. The FSA also assists the Natural Resources and Conservation Service in its programs. Info: Janelle Lasley, County Executive Director, 317-736-6822, ext. 2. Janelle. lasley@in.usda.gov The office is at 701 W Madison St., Suite E, Franklin, IN 46131

Farmers Clubs

Assist young farmers and agribusinesses with educational programs and practical experiences.

Johnson County clubs are: Trafalgar Young Farmers and Johnson County Farm Bureau Young Farmers.

FArm ServiceS DirectOrY

4-H

An informal, practical, learn-by-doing educational program that helps youths establish real-life goals and become competent, productive citizens.

The 4-H program is for rural and urban youths in Grades K-12. The 4-H program in Johnson County involves 1057 4-H’ers, 193 mini 4-H’ers and 134 4-H leaders in 32 4-H clubs.

For more information contact the Johnson County Extension Office at 317736-3724.

4-H and youth Development — extension educator

Leads programs that provide learning experiences for youths to develop individual talents, skills and leadership abilities. Youth educators work cooperatively with local leadership and groups concerned with youths to develop programs.

Heather Dougherty, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development, Johnson County Extension Office, 484 N. Morton St.,

Franklin, IN 46131, 317-736-3724. Info: hdougher@purdue.edu

Health and Human sciences — extension educator

The Health and Human Sciences educator provides research-based information and informal educational programs related to overall health, nutrition, food safety, mental/emotional health and physical activity. Information is also available in the areas of money management and human development.

The Health and Human Sciences educator works with local leadership and agencies involved with improving the quality of individual, family and community life.

Linda Clutz, Extension Educator, Health and Human, Johnson County Extension Office, 484 N. Morton St., Franklin, IN 46131, 317-736-3724. Info: lklutz@purdue. edu

Johnson County beef Cattle Association

An affiliate of the Indiana Beef Cattle Association, it improves the beef cattle

industry through education for producers and consumers.

Officers for 2022: Mike Hardamon, president; Brian Young, vice president; Keegan Poe, secretary; and Tim Gaughan, treasurer. Information: Facebook: Johnson County Beef Cattle Association (Indiana)

Purdue University extension — Johnson County

Provides informal educational opportunities for all county residents. Financial support is provided by the county, state and federal governments. Extension educators serve as the link between research and practical application of ideas. Educational opportunities are available in each county in agriculture, horticulture, community development, foods and nutrition, health and human science, 4-H and youth development.

Johnson County Extension Office, 484 N. Morton St., Franklin, IN 46131 317-7363724

Johnson County extension board

Purdue Extension Johnson County consists of the Johnson County Extension Board representing the citizens of Johnson County, Indiana. The County Extension Board is the advisory and advocacy body of the overall Purdue University Cooperative Extension in Johnson County.

The Board provides an organized way for the county to be represented by local people in its relationship with Extension. They are not legal governmental entities, but rather unincorporated associations serving in advisory capacities to the Johnson County Purdue Cooperative Extension Service. The Board’s four functions are:

1. Program Planning, Implementation and Evaluation

2. Financial Support and Resource Identification

3. Advocacy for Extension; and

4. Personnel Recommendation and Assistance

The board is composed of adults and youths representing various interests throughout the county.

If you would be interested in serving on the Johnson County Extension Board, please contact Heather Dougherty at 317736-3724 or hdougher@purdue.edu

Johnson County extension Homemakers

Their mission is to strengthen families through continuing education, leadership, development and volunteer community support.

The first two clubs were formed in Johnson County in 1914. There are 200 members in the county’s 10 clubs. An executive board governs the organization and includes Dee Kirkham, president; Bev Waltz and Lora Lee Curren co-vice presidents; Arlene Neyer, secretary; Kathy Vest, treasurer; and Cathy Cook, past county president.

Information: Cathy Cook, 317-736-3724 or www.extension.purdue.edu/johnson

Johnson County Garden Clubs

We have at least three active garden clubs in Johnson County. They offer

opportunities with speakers, volunteering at various community garden sites and social experiences with others interested in vegetable or flower gardening.

Johnson County Garden Club meets monthly with a speaker or does a site visit to various garden locations. Gary Kiesel is the president. They can be reached at jcgardenclub@gmail.com.

Trafalgar Country Gardeners meet monthly in the Trafalgar area. They work in several community garden areas and make a tree for the annual holiday decorating contest at the museum. They sponsor the Youth Gardening Camp provided by Extension. Karen & Rich Gotshall are the contacts and can be reached at gotshalls@gmail.com.

Cultivating Garden Club of Greenwood is another of our county garden clubs. Julie Wells serves as their president. They can be reached at cultivatinggardenclub@ comcast.net.

Natural resources Conservation service

Provides technical assistance in developing plans and carries out programs for protecting and developing the nation’s soil, water and related natural resources.

Tony Branam, District Conservationist, 701 W Madison St., Suite E, Franklin, IN 46131; 317-736-6822, ext. 3 or 317-373-2062 Tony.Branam@in.usda.gov

Johnson County soil and Water Conservation District

Mission: To conserve and enhance our soil, water, and other natural resources by coordinating with local partners to provide technical, financial and educational opportunities in Johnson County.

Staff: Kathy Haste, director; Blair Beavers, assistant director and education coordinator; agricultural conservation programs.

Board of supervisors 2023: Kevin Thompson, Joe Bill Misiniec, Chris Campbell, Jim Risch and Andy Duckworth.

They are located at 550 E. Jefferson St. Suite 202, Franklin, IN 46131; 317-7369540.

The SWCD offers free education programs to Johnson County classrooms, organizations, groups and others interested in conservation education. These programs cover a wide variety of content, including the water cycle, water

quality and conservation, rocks and minerals, worms, soil conservation and composition, the Enviroscape and trees. The programs are designed for Grades K-12, and volunteers will work to align the programs with the appropriate Indiana Academic Standards for the given age group. If they do not have a program that fits your needs, call and they will help plan one just for your group. All programs must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance. In-school, afternoon and evening programs are available.

Contact Blair Beavers at the SWCD office at 317-736-9540 or blair-beavers@iaswcd. org to schedule a program or for more information.

youth Conservation board

Organized in 1985 to develop and encourage the conservation of natural resources, the Youth Conservation Board is composed of students in Grades

9-12 from various Johnson County high schools and meet monthly. The youth board works with the approval of the Johnson County Soil and Water Conservation District. Currently the youth board is taking a break but hopes to regroup.

Rooted in Tradition, YEARS

Growing into the Future!

JohnSon CountY FAiR

July 14th - 20th, 2024

100 years of 4-H in Johnson County

1924-2024