She glows : Janet Katz

she glows

JANET KATZ

By Julie Young | Photo by Leaha Meinika

Janet Katz believes everyone should find joy and connection through the food they eat, and as the founding director of the Northeast Indiana Local Food Network, she not only celebrates the regional fare, but also works to promote those who produce it.

A self-described eater who always enjoyed visiting local farms and discovering new local foods, Katz earned a master’s degree in sustainable food systems. In 2015, she directed the documentary “From Fencerows to Foodsheds,” which examines how two Indiana communities worked to revitalize their local food systems. In 2017, Katz was asked to serve on a regional steering committee that launched the Northeast Indiana Local Food Network, a nonprofit organization to support the growth of a strong local food economy in the area. “We’re helping to build a robust local food system, and promote and support the food that is grown, raised, and eaten here,” she said. The organization’s online Local Food Guide at www.NEIfood.org, helps both local consumers and visitors find local foods and beverages made with ingredients from local farms. By increasing the visibility and economic opportunities of local food producers and businesses, the Northeast Indiana Local Food Network helps them expand their sales both locally and beyond. The nonprofit currently partners with Parkview Health on a regional Farm to School program that introduces thousands of students to local fruits and vegetables and the farmers who grow them. “Our farmers love feeding people,” she said. “When you attend a farmer’s market, you will feel that personal connection and sense the pride in the food they produce. Our farmers and artisan food producers really get to know their customers and develop the trust and transparency that customers value.” The Northeast Indiana Local Food Network launched Local Food Week in 2020 to celebrate the region’s bounty and encourage families to visit local farms. Katz is currently organizing 2022 Local Food Week, which runs from Friday, July 29 through Sunday, August 7, featuring farm tours and local food events hosted across the region. Complete details are available at www.NEIfood.org. Katz shared that the Northeast Indiana Local Food Network is hosting its annual Local Food Forum & Expo again on Monday, September 12, at Purdue Fort Wayne. Five dollars from each ticket is contributed to the organization’s Local Food Scholarship Fund, which provides local food producers with scholarships for educational courses or to attend a conference as they seek to expand their businesses. By being intentional about their food purchases and buying from a local food producer, Katz says consumers can make a difference not only for themselves and their families but for the whole community who benefits from having a resilient local food system focused on the food grown on Hoosier soil, as well. “You don’t have to do everything all at once, just start with one ingredient like local lettuce or pasture-raised eggs,” she said. “Once you experience the flavor and freshness of food that comes from our region’s farms, you’ll seek more opportunities to buy local.” a SummerisBursting

WITH U-PICK EXPERIENCES IN WABASH COUNTY!

There’s really nothing better than the freshness of strawberry or blueberry shortcake made with locally grown fruits you’ve picked. What about an organic, farm-grown, ripe and juicy tomato bursting with flavor? Looking to add color and beauty to the center of your dining room table? Wabash County has several U-pick locations nestled on scenic farms offering everything from produce to wild flowers, pumpkins to brown eggs.

BERRY HILL FARM

260-578-4468 | 3075 W – 1000 N, Roann, Indiana 46974 2 acres of blueberries covered and protected from hungry birds are reserved just for you, 1 acre has an abundance of fresh vegetables including 3 high tunnels for winter production. Call to pre-order produce available for pickup on Friday afternoons. Call before coming for U-pick to make sure the fields are open.

CORDES BERRY FARM, LLC

(260) 571-0503 | 6467 N - 550 W, Roann, IN 46974 W: www.facebook.com/Cordesberryfarm In July and August, huge juicy organic blackberries bigger than your thumb ripen. Really, you need to see them to believe just how big they are! They also have pre-picked berries, jams, and pie filling available. Please check their Facebook page to know when picking times are open.

DAVID DOUD’S COUNTY LINE ORCHARD

(765) 833-6122 | 7877 W - 400 N, Wabash, Indiana 46992 Fuzzy juicy peaches and early apples are picked fresh and available to you beginning in August. Fall through December brings Asian pears, and many apple varieties. Call or check their Facebook page for the latest picking and availability news! Cash or checks only.

JOYFIELD FARM

(260) 982-2971 | 4874 E – 1400 N, North Manchester, Indiana 46962 Over the past 30 years, the Kindy’s efforts have created a rich soil as the foundation for their 2.5 acre produce farm which is lovingly planted, tended, and harvested without using gas-powered machinery, pesticides, fertilizers, well water, or irrigation systems.

RIVERRIDGE FARM & STORE

(260) 901-3125 | 9559 N – 250 W, Roann, Indiana 46974 This unique farm is operated by the Fingerle family and has greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers available year-round! This is a they-pick farm, where you can purchase freshly harvested fruits and vegetables which are free from pesticides, and herbicides.

WILD BLOOMS U PICK FLOWER FARM

2001 W – 500 S, Wabash IN 46992 Nearly 1.5 acres of fresh wildflowers in bloom! Can you imagine the beauty of this field? It’s a dream come true for both you, and the owner, Stephanie Peebles. You may come and pick the perfect bouquet, or have Steph create bouquets for you. You don’t even need a special event when a bouquet of flowers can say so much to someone. Check their Facebook page for availability and updates.