CHECKOFF INVESTMENT
The Indiana State Fair plans for large crowds to return to this summer’s event.
New Glass Barn exhibit will ‘combine’ learning and fun at State Fair BY SUSAN HAYHURST
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elebrating the Hoosier Spirit,” the 2021 Indiana State Fair theme, readily identifies with Indiana farmers and agriculture organizations who make it their daily priority to be innovative and forward-thinking. “This year’s theme amplifies the programming in the Indiana Soybean Alliance’s Glass Barn,” said Stephanie DeCamp, director of education for the State Fair. “Celebrating the Hoosier Spirit of the farmers who never stop during times of adversity shows resilience and commitment.” The Glass Barn, opened in 2013, was built to educate consumers about agriculture and modern farming practices, according to DeCamp. “For more than 160 years, the Indiana State Fair has existed to support and promote Indiana agriculture,” she said. “Today, it is more important than ever that we continue to work with our Ag partners across the state to reach consumers with entertaining
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INDIANA CORN & SOYBEAN POST
and engaging programming that teaches them about agriculture and where their food comes from.” The Indiana Soybean Alliance will have an increased presence at this year’s fair to educate consumers about the many uses of soybeans. We’re excited to announce we have installed a combine simulator for the 2021 Fair,” says Matt Keller, ISA Marketing Outreach Manager. “This is an interactive experience for visitors to climb into a real combine cab and virtually harvest soybeans. Beyond the in-cab experience, visitors will be able to walk into the back of a combine to learn about the engineering that goes into these incredible farm implements. They will also be able to see a timeline of ag technology over the past century.” The simulator is nearly 35 feet long and 20 feet tall. “This has been an incredible undertaking and something that will serve as the flagship exhibit in the Glass Barn for many years to come,” said Elaine Gillis, a Delaware County farmer, ISA board member and featured farmer in the
