Farm Indiana

september 2013 | Section A

FAMILY FARMS

story By Robin winzenread fritz photos by josh marshall

For Randy and Karen Cyman, running Highpoint Orchard is a labor of love Karen and Randy Cyman

T

hings could have been very different for Randy and Karen Cyman, owners of Highpoint Orchard northwest of Greensburg. Just 10 years ago, they were newlyweds wrapping up their third year of both marriage and living in Saudi Arabia where Randy managed a battery manufacturing plant for Delphi. Then in June 2006 — when they were back home again in Indiana and were only two months into running their new orchard — Honda Manufacturing came calling with an offer to buy their 20-acre property for the auto plant that would soon be breaking ground right next door.

While the offer was tempting, Randy and Karen had other plans.

“We talked about it, and things didn’t line up,” explains Randy. “So we said, no, we’ve already invested time and effort here. … We’re staying.

“You know, you can look your whole life, but places like this don’t often become available,” Randy adds, considering their decision to stay. “We were just fortunate.”

Looking around the historic property, it’s little wonder the Cymans decided to stay. Their Highpoint Orchard sits atop historic Pleaks Hill — recognized as one of the highest points in Decatur County — and offers commanding views of the surrounding Hoosier countryside as well as the blue waters of

See highpoint on a2

63 years of Service, Strength, and Integrity.

6672 East 650 South | Edinburgh, IN 46124 | 812-526-5574 | 800-284-2676 | kokomograin.com

A2

Farm Indiana // september 2013

Children from local schools who visit Highpoint Orchard on field trips are treated to a display about how things were handmade during the Gilded Age era. AT RIGHT: The gift and snack shop offers home decorations and a sit-down lunch menu.

highpoint // cont. from a1

“That's when that house was built (1858) ... when Abraham Lincoln was alive. You just feel the history.”

—randy cyman

the Upland Reservoir to the east. The Cymans’ large brick home rests near a stand of native persimmons and, along with the smokehouse, dates from 1858.

“That’s when that house was built,” says Randy, “… when Abraham Lincoln was alive. You just feel the history.”

Even older, the renovated Ole Mill Barn on their property was built in 1854 and originally served as a gristmill for area farmers. Built into the hillside with views over the orchard, it now functions as the primary banquet facility at Highpoint. Randy and Karen point out the original cornerstone of the Ole Mill Barn, which not only includes

the hand-carved 1854 date, but the square and compasses symbol of the Freemasons as well.

A large fireplace can be found in the upstairs dining room of the barn, where Randy enjoys sitting before a roaring fire looking out over the orchards. “I told Karen, let’s make it (the house) a bed-and-breakfast,” says Randy, sitting near the fireplace. “I could live in here.” For Karen, the large covered porch spanning the front of the barn calls to her.

While the historic buildings bring in tour groups and school field trips, it’s the colorful landscaping, stunning views and orchard that draw other events to Highpoint.

Now in its eighth year in business, the orchard provides a private, tranquil setting for weddings, reunions, holiday parties, meetings, corporate dinners and other events — a service used on several occasions by management at nearby Honda and its on-site supplier, One Solution Logistics.

“We’ve had a lot of parties here,” says Randy.

“The new trend is people are looking for alternative spaces versus the traditional wedding, you know, maybe inside a church,” Karen adds, “and it’s been amazing how many peo-

See highpoint on A5

LATE PLANTING THIS YEAR? WILL YOU BE READY FOR HARVEST?

MOST COMPLETE LINE OF HARDEST WORKING. SMOOTHEST RIDING.

Call schafstall, inc. today to discuss your grain conditioning options. Let us help make this year’s harvest your smoothest yet.

NEW! 2013 RANGER XP® 900

CLASS-LEADING 60 HP

NEW! 2013 RANGER 800 EFI MID-SIZE ®

MOST POWER IN ITS CLASS

HARDEST WORKING, SMOOTHEST RIDING FEATURES

■

■ ■ ■

Choose from gas engines up to 60 HP, a 30 HP AC electric motor or a fuel-efficient high-torque diesel.

Choose from 2- and 4-passenger mid-size models or 3- and 6-passenger full-size models All models feature On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive (AWD) to maximize traction Detailed customization with hundreds of rugged and reliable Polaris accessories

FIND YOURS TODAY AT:

3778 West State Road 56 Salem, IN 47167

812-833-1005

Warning: The Polaris RANGER and RZR are not intended for on-road use. Driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate. Passengers must be at least 12 years old and tall enough to grasp the hand holds and plant feet firmly on the floor. All SxS drivers should take a safety training course. Contact ROHVA at www.rohva.org or (949) 255-2560 for additional information.

Drivers and passengers should always wear helmets, eye protection, protective clothing, and seat belts. Always use cab nets. Be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Never drive on public roads or paved surfaces. Never engage in stunt driving, and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. Check local laws before riding on trails. ©2012 Polaris Industries Inc.

14055 South 725 West, Columbus, IN 47201 | 1-812-342-60-10 | kendal@schafstall.net

3778 West State Road 56,Salem, IN 47167 | 1-812-833-1005

At Stewart Seeds, We’re Rooted in Local Service When you farm with Stewart Seeds, you can count on three things: products proven in your area and matched to your farm, support and guidance from a District Sales Manager (DSM), and timely communication whenever you have questions or need advice.

Our Agronomy-In-Motion™ (AIM) program helps you farm confidently by offering practical recommendations on how to build a plan and start off strong, giving you insight all year long through publications like CropFlash e-blasts and AIM Journal newsletters.

Since we work and farm in your area, our knowledge comes from local experience. Through excellent seed performance and strong relationships, we’re confident that we can help you grow this season.

Local Solutions. Promises Delivered.

Your South Central Indiana Stewart Seeds Team District Sales Manager, Greg Patterson – 812-350-7289 Dealer, Ben Thompson-Jackson County Dealer, Matt Clark – Jefferson and Jennings Counties District Sales Manager, Carol Brooks – 812-599-0446 Dealer, Chad Sims 812-350-3500, Greg Daily 812-372-7727 Bartholomew and Johnson Counties District Sales Manager, Joe Sharp – 765-580-0217 Dealer, Joel Parker – Shelby and Hancock Counties Dealer, Troy Thopy – Shelby County Dealer, Kevin Weber – Decatur and Ripley Counties Dealer, Brian Roberts – Shelby County Dealer, Rick McFarland- Hancock County District Sales Manager, Steve Pitts – 812-662-4528 Decatur County

Main Office 2230 E County Road 300N, Greensburg, IN, 47240 • 1-800-365-SEED | 812-663-6899 | fax 812-663-7938

www.StewartSeeds.com

Visit us on

Stewart and Design™ and Stewart™ are trademarks of American Seeds, LLC. ©2013 Monsanto Company. 34130 8-20-13

Farm Indiana // september 2013

EDITOR’S NOTE september 2013

Homegrown » Local, fresh food is a hot topic these days. If you need proof of that, just stop at any one of the approximately 175 farmers markets running throughout Indiana each week and listen to what people are saying. Chat with one of the dozens of folks managing local Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs. Sign on with an online food hub, which better connects farmers to consumers and helps to put local food into Indiana homes. Or visit any number of fine dining establishments, where chances are good you will see fresh, locally grown food touted on the menu.

In many cases, restaurant owners are even growing the food themselves.

Indiana consumers want their food fresh, yes, and odds are food grown closer to home is fresher. On that we’re clear. But most of our food doesn’t come from here.

Or anywhere even close to here.

Ken Meter visits Bartholomew and Jackson counties this month to discuss his study of the origins of the food that Hoosiers eat (see our story on page B7 of this issue).

You might be surprised by what you hear.

Although everyone is talking and touting locally grown food, the fact remains that very few of our meals are sourced here, de-

A6 Ecocert ICO

spite the fact that Indiana is the 10th-largest farm state.

This is changing, Meter says, but it’s a slow process. Most often, big changes first require a number of small steps. And, it appears, many of those small steps are in place around here. Local restaurants and hoteliers are growing their own food. National grocery store chains are selling produce from local farms. Urban gardens, backyard chicken coops and homesteading groups are all the rage, and small farms are popping up all over the Hoosier map. Heck, even urban schools are getting their youngsters in on the gardening act.

Hippocrates once said that food can be medicine, and I am a big believer in that adage. I’ve seen how eating and juicing fresh fruits and vegetables can make sick people well again, and I have witnessed how processed foods can steal a person’s otherwise good health. The fresher the food is that we eat, the healthier we can be.

Good things, they say, come to those who wait. I look forward to a day when Hoosiers everywhere know how to grow, cook and eat healthier, fresher foods, or at the very least they opt to buy that food from their neighbors, rather than big box chains.

I’ve never been known for having patience, but I’m holding out hope for this one.

A9 Indiana’s Fall Festivals A11 Armuth Show Pigs A13 All Terrain Vehicles B1 Vaught Family B4 StillWaters B6 Eating Local Foods B9 Vallonia Tree Nursery B11 AgrAbility B13 Reddington Rear Wheelers B14 Quick Bites: Ahlemeyer Farms Bakery

Comments, story ideas and suggestions should be sent to Sherri Lynn Dugger, The Republic, 333 Second St., Columbus, IN 47201, call (812) 379-5608 or email farmindiana@hnenewspapers.com. For advertising information, call (812) 379-5690.

©2013 by Home News Enterprises. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of stories, photographs and advertisements without permission is prohibited.

>> SUBMIT YOUR FARM NEWS TO US! Email briefs to farmindiana@hnenewspapers.com.

ENJOY YOUR

IN STYLE

Honda 0 0 0 0 Accord LX

2013

A4

$

$

DUE AT SIGNING

#CR2F3DEW

4 DOOR, AUTOMATIC

259

$

SCOTT BABB

Right on the Corner!

Southern Indiana Irrigation Systems, Inc. 15790 North 100 East Edinburgh, IN 46124 812-526-0600

HARISH PILLAI

EXLUDES TAXES, TITLES AND DEALER FEES.

ERIC BURRIS

JON FRANZ

$

SECURITY DEPOSIT

$

DOWN PAYMENT

1 ST MO. PAYMENT

+TAX

PER MONTH* FOR 35 MO.

TERRY GILPIN

MARK HUNTER

WAYNE O'HAVER

GREG ERDMAN INTERNET

KEITH ROACH FLEET REP

RENNER Honda

US 31, Columbus • (812) 372-1561 • (800) 467-8450 www.rennerhonda.net Right on the Price! Right here in Columbus! *For well-qualified lessees approved by Honda Financial Services. Not all lessees will qualify. Higher lease rates apply for lessees with lower credit ratings. MSRP $23,270.00 (includes destination, excludes tax, license, title fees, registration, documentation fees, options, insurance and the like). Actual net capitalized cost $22,212.00.

Net capitalized cost includes $595 acquisition fee. Total monthly payments $9,976.68 Option to purchase at lease end $13,729.30. Must take new retail delivery on vehicle from dealer stock by August 31, 2013. Lessee responsible for maintenance, excessive wear/tear and 15¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year. Offer valid 8/21 - 8/31, 2013.

Farm Indiana // september 2013

A5

highpoint // cont. from a2 ple have found us with the social media and our website. That segment of our business is growing.”

“By leaps and bounds,” offers Randy.

Randy and Karen currently grow more than 35 different types of fruit, including apples, peaches and Asian pears, on six of their 20 acres. Given the nearly ideal growing conditions during the spring and early summer this year, Highpoint’s trees hang with fruit so ample that branches sag to the ground under the load. Additional acreage lies in wait as Randy and Karen plan for the future of their farm.

In addition to planting the orchard and renovating the existing home and Ole Mill Barn since purchasing the property in 2003, the Cymans built the orchard house, which includes a gift shop and café open from June through Thanksgiving. The banquet facility is available year-round.

Highpoint Orchard is just one example of the rapidly growing agritourism business taking root in Indiana. From fruit orchards to wineries to Oktoberfests featuring hayrides and pumpkin patches, farmers throughout Indiana are embracing alternative activities offered to the public as ways to both supplement and diversify the income stream from their property. Other popular examples of agritourism include self-pick farms, seasonal produce markets, harvest festivals, farm demonstrations, school and club tours, crop mazes, Christmas tree farms and even campgrounds.

Central Indiana’s ready access to several urban areas, such as Indianapolis, Chicago and Cincinnati, also provides Hoosier farmers with sizable populations ready and willing to sample the wide variety of agritourism opportunities.

The industry’s popularity as a tourist attraction stems from its ability to provide people with an opportunity to experience, enjoy and learn about agriculture first hand.

Building upon the growing popularity of agritourism in Indiana, the Cymans have hosted several notable events at Highpoint Orchard, including the Regional Classic Car Show in September 2012, which drew an estimated 300 to 400 visitors from around the country. Roughly 60 cars from the 1920s through the 1940s were on hand to be judged for the national competition.

Additionally, state Rep. Randy Frye of Greensburg held a news conference on the grounds of Highpoint Orchard regarding House Enrolled Act 1133, which offers a measure of protection to farmers from liability resulting from agritourism activities. The act — which became law in 2011 — requires individuals visiting an agritourism location to accept and acknowledge that there is a potential danger in

such activities as hayrides and fruit picking, though it does not protect property owners from negligence.

For Randy and Karen, the orchard is a natural extension of their lives since marrying in 2000. Randy has extensive management experience in the auto industry and, ironically, works next door for Honda in addition to overseeing the orchard, facility maintenance and landscaping.

Karen is well-versed in wholesale and retail business management, having operated her own company in the apparel industry, and she oversees the banquet facility, gift shop and cafe. It’s a partnership that has enabled the couple to use their experience to make the most of their 20 acres while enjoying it in the process.

“Sometimes you get so busy that you forget where you are,” Karen says, “and then I look up, and that’s when I stop and I really appreciate it. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished.”

“I want to enjoy this, and I could do this all the time. It was a dream come true for me, to have a house like this. And to have all of this,” Randy says, gesturing toward the orchard and surrounding farmland. “It’s great. I love living here.” *FI

About Highpoint: The orchard shop at Highpoint is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June through Thanksgiving. Lunch is offered daily in the gift shop from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The Ole Mill Barn banquet facility with catering is available year-round. Highpoint also offers a pre-set dinner menu on the first Friday of each month, July through November, though visitors need reservations for dinner. 3321 N. Old Highway 421, near Greensburg, www.highpointorchard.com

Enjoy “Award Winning” Meats From

Farm Drainage Installation | Waterway Construction Surface Drainage | Water Management Practices RTK Equipped

DARLAGE CUSTOM MEATS PORK

•

BEEF

•

DEER

Daryn Romine, Owner

FULL RETAIL MEAT CASE T-BONES • RIBEYES • FILETS GROUND BEEF • PORK BURGERS BEEF FREEZER BUNDLES MEAT SMOKING AVAILABLE

Give Us A Call Today! 812.546.5952

Just off Highway 50 • Seymour • 522-1635

A6

Farm Indiana // september 2013

uss organic farming trends.

Eric Murphy and Jessica Ervin disc ified through EcoCert ICO. cert farm a The Murphys own

Farmhand Megan Walker helps the Murphys.

Growing Up Green Ecocert ICO’s Jessica Ervin is no stranger to organic awareness story By jon shoulders

T

here’s no denying it. More consumers want organically made food, clothing and skin care products these days. But when a company wants to stamp an organic label on its merchandise, who decides that its products are actually certified organic?

Enter Ecocert ICO (Indiana Certified Organic), a USDA-accredited certification organization headquartered in Greenwood, and one of only a handful of companies in the U.S. responsible for certifying the farms, processing facilities and retailers that tout themselves as organic in today’s marketplace.

Jessica Ervin, policy and education manager at Ecocert ICO, says the company provides a one-stop inspection and certification service for organizations that are required to comply with a variety of both U.S. and international organic standards.

“We oversee everything from farms of a couple acres up to huge production part-

nerships over four or five different states,” she says. “Organics is an increasing trend, probably more so in other states than Indiana, but it’s growing.”

And you won’t find many people in the industry more suited than Jessica to oversee such a trend.

Having grown up on an organic vegetable and chicken farm in Clayton, the 36-year-old Ervin is no stranger to organic awareness. As a youngster she shared daily gardening duties alongside her mother, Cissy Bowman, and stepfather, Bruce Bowman, a retired analytical chemist. Cissy Bowman, who had begun cultivating the family farm in 1973, eventually hired employees to assist with both the farm and a Community Supported Agriculture program she established in Clayton — the first organic CSA in Indiana. The operation became collectively known as Center Valley Organics.

“The food we ate came mostly from

photos by josh marshall

what we grew and made from scratch,” Ervin recalls. “Growing up on an organic farm brought an immense sense of quality and awareness, which is an irreplaceable and humbling educational experience.”

In the early 1990s, Bowman helped lawmakers draft the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s regulatory framework for organic foods, known as the National Organic Program, which oversees thirdparty certifiers like Ecocert ICO to ultimately ensure the integrity of products labeled organic. In 1995, she established Indiana Certified Organic, one of the first USDA-accredited organic certification agencies in the U.S. “She has a passion for working with people with food allergies and farmers, and it instilled in me a great sense of how communities and families should be, working together and knowing how and where our food is produced,” Ervin says.

Bowman currently serves as president

and program director at Hoosier Organic Marketing Education, a nonprofit educational organization, and continues to grow vegetables on her property.

After graduating from high school in 1995, Ervin studied at Purdue University and subsequently worked in economic development at Ice Miller law firm and as a paralegal at Duke Energy before joining Indiana Certified Organic full time in 2005.

Two years ago, ICO merged with Ecocert Group, a worldwide inspection and certification body established in France in 1991, in order to provide a wider range of services, including organic certification of cosmetics, detergents and textiles, under the USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP) standards. The company changed its name to Ecocert ICO in January and remains the only NOP-accredited organic certification agency in the state. Ecocert ICO has additional offices in California,

Butters/Preserves Available From Dillman Farm & Baked Goods From Ahlemeyer Farms Bakery

Growers of Fine Fruits & Vegetables

Bush’s Market Small Engines of Seymour, Inc.

726 East Tipton Street, Seymour • 812-522-4777 • STIHLdealers.com

7301 E. 25th Street • 379-9077 www.bushsmarket.com

Farm Indiana // september 2013

“Organics is an increasing trend, probably more so in other states than Indiana,

but it’s growing.”

—Jessica ervin, policy and education manager at Ecocert ICO

Eric Murphy

Wisconsin, Oregon and Florida, and can now certify farms and organizations in any state or country.

Prior to her current position as education and policy manager with Ecocert ICO, Ervin served in various roles, including as the company’s internal auditor, accountant and assistant business manager. These days she juggles office work with making public presentations on organic certification throughout the Midwest.

Given the multitude of positions Ervin has held within the company over the years, some of Bowman’s passion for organic practices seems to have rubbed off on her daughter. Perhaps the most fitting testament to Ervin’s dedication comes from George Kalogridis, the company’s certification manager. “She’s the heart and soul of the organization,” he says.

The annual certification process starts with an application called an Organic System Plan, through which the company gathers and documents information on soil fertility, weed and pest management, livestock feed methods and other practices. The application process is followed by an on-site inspection.

Before initial certification, however, land must undergo a three-year transition period during which certain pesticides and fertilizers cannot be used. Kalogridis says the transition period can be an obstacle for farmers trying to make the change, resulting in many farms taking a gradual approach to organic conversion. “What happens often is that you have a conventional farmer who takes a pasture or small piece of their operation and starts farming it organically, and then slowly but surely they transition the entire farm,” he says. “Most of our new organic farmers are conventional farmers who are transitioning.”

A7

A8

Farm Indiana // september 2013

Eric Murphy loads his truck with fresh produce in preparation for an upcoming farmers market. AT LEFT: Christine Murphy sorts beets.

Central Indiana Organics, an organic feed grain supplier and Ecocert ICO customer based in Lebanon, maintains certification for all 300 of its acres. Coowner Dave Randle says the benefits of serving his clients a certified product tend to outweigh the costs and sometimeslengthy annual certification process. “The growth of organics in the market is very important, because it forces retailers and producers to make a choice and confront the facts of how their food is made,” Randle explains.

According to Ervin, the collaborative spirit between her company and its clients echoes her younger days at the family farm in Clayton, days she spent immersed in a positive, like-minded community working toward a common objective.

“The people we work with are great, and we all have a lot of the same ideals on what’s important,” she says. “It’s the only job that I’ve ever worked in where you can see (the results of) what you’re doing, working with the farmers and working with products that you see on the shelf in the store.” *FI

Ecocert ICO 70 E. Main St., Suite B, Greenwood, (888) 337-8246, (317) 865-9700, www.ecocertico.com

AFTER

Your Local Simplicity Dealer

0%

for

48 Months

With Approved Credit BEFORE

AMAZING

Makeovers!

It starts with a vision, an idea drawn on scrap paper or even a napkin. Let us help make that vision a reality!

1400 W Main St. • Greensburg, IN

812-663-2754 www.whynotvinyl.com

See us for full service application of fertilizers and crop protection

ON SELECTED MODELS

Grass Luvers Power Sales & Service M-F 8am-6pm • Sat 8am-2pm

3605 N. National Rd, Columbus, IN

812-376-7200

www.grassluvers.com

Your Local Name Brand, Outdoor Power Equipment Dealer

TRICO FARM SUPPLIES, INC.

Mini-Marathon 9:00 am • Motorcycle Race 11:00 am

(812) 579-5262

Food, Beer Wagon & Wine

19541 E. 300 S., Elizabethtown

Seymour Fall Festival • Saturday, September 14th

Band Starts at 3:00 pm To Register Go To signmeup.com

Bulk Fertilizer • Bag Fertilizer • Liquid Fertilizer • Anhydrous Ammonia • Chemicals Custom Application • Bulk Delivery • Soil Testing • GPS Soil Testing & Application

chateaudepique.com • 812-522-9296 • 361 N. Co. Rd. 760 E., Seymour, IN Hours: Mon-Thurs. 11–6, Fri-Sat 11–7, Sun 12–6

Farm Indiana // september 2013

AGRITOURISM

compiled By jon shoulders

Indiana’s fall festival season will soon be under way. Travel the state to enjoy a tour-de-Indiana-fests of sorts. We’ve broken down our festival insights into regional categories to help navigate your parade-peering, people-passing, pumpkin-picking pursuits.

Get down, down south A parade, a baking contest and a 5K walk/run/wheelchair race make Seymour’s annual celebration more than your typical Oktoberfest gathering. But make no mistake — there are plenty of German-themed activities at this festival, which began in 1973 to celebrate Jackson County’s prevalent German heritage. Most of downtown Seymour is converted into a veritable German village complete with a biergarten and food and craft vendors. There’s even a bratwurst-eating contest for those feeling both hungry and competitive.

“Since I’m not originally from Seymour, I’m amazed at the size of the festival and how many people come from all over the world,” says Kathy Mead, president of the Oktoberfest volunteer committee. “We have a guest book in the information booth, and it’s fun to look through and see where people come from. Many are former Seymourites who return.”

When & where: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Oct. 3 to 5 in downtown Seymour. Free admission.

Free shuttle available from Seymour High School.

Information: (812) 523-1414 or www.seymouroktoberfest.com.

Oktoberfest

Also in southern Indiana:

Hope Heritage Days Hope town square Enjoy homemade food, craft booths, live musical entertainment and a parade. Free admission. Sept. 27 to 29. Visit website for updates on hours of operation and event schedule. Information: (812) 546-4673 or www.heritageofhope.com.

West Side Nut Club Fall Festival Franklin Street, Evansville Paul Harvey once reportedly said Mardi Gras in New Orleans is the only U.S. festival larger than Evansville’s annual fall fest. Enjoy rides, games and more than 120 food booths serving all sorts of festival fare, from elephant ears to corn dogs. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Oct. 7 to 12. Free admission. Information: (812) 424-4881 or www.nutclub.org.

Madison Chautauqua Festival of Art Broadway and Vine streets, Madison One of Indiana’s premier juried arts and crafts shows with more than 250 artists, kids activity tent and riverfront food fest along the Ohio. Live music from instrumental soloist Bob Culbertson, French crooner Michelet Innocent and others. Free admission. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sept. 28 and 29. A shuttle is available from Madison Consolidated High School for $1. Information: (800) 559-2956 or www.madisonchautauqua.com.

Harvest Homecoming Downtown New Albany New Albany’s fall festival kicks off with a parade on Saturday and offers crafts, food and contests for all ages through the week. This year’s theme: “Harvest of History.” Free admission. Oct. 5 to 13. Information: (812) 944-8572 or www.harvesthomecoming.com.

Front and center There are things the state of Indiana is certainly known for — basketball, corn and the Indy 500 might come to mind — but Parke County’s covered bridges represent a lesserknown attraction that draws folks from around the region.

The county touts itself as the Covered Bridge Capital of the World and claims to have more covered bridges — 31 total — than any other county in the United States.

Starting on the second Friday of every October, this unique claim to fame is celebrated properly during the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival, which centers on the courthouse in Rockville and features food and entertainment for 10 days. In 2005, the festival appeared on Travelocity’s “Local Secrets, Big Finds” list.

Cathy Harkrider, executive secretary of festival organizer Parke County Inc., says 1.5 million people typically attend during the event. “It’s a very picturesque setting,” she says, adding that it features hundreds of vendors and offers a wide array of foods and crafts.

When & where: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 11 to 20.

Free admission. Headquartered on the courthouse lawn at 116 W. High St. in Rockville.

Information: (765) 569-5226 or www.coveredbridges.com.

Also in central Indiana:

Oktoberfest at German Park 8600 S. Meridian St., Indianapolis All you could expect from a classic Oktoberfest celebration — biergarten, “root bier” tent for kids, rides, pretzels, live music and food. Open at 4 p.m. each day Sept.

5 to 9. Cost: $5 (under 12 free). Information: (317) 8886940 or www.indianapolisgak.com.

Riley Festival Main Street, downtown Greenfield With food, crafts, flea market booths, decorated pumpkin shows and more, this festival celebrates the birthday of the “Hoosier poet,” James Whitcomb Riley. Each year one of his poems is selected as the festival theme; 2013’s theme is “The King.” Free admission. A shuttle from the Hancock County Fairgrounds is available for 50 cents.

5 to 9 p.m. Oct. 3; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 4 and 5, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 6. Information: (317) 462-2141 or www.rileyfestival.com.

Newport Antique Auto Hill Climb Town square, downtown Newport Annual racing event during which antique cars from all over the world race up the town’s 1,800-foot hill. This hill climb features a car show, parade, fireworks and food. Free admission. Oct. 4 to 6. Information: (765) 492-4220 or www.newporthillclimb.com.

Waterman’s Fall Harvest Festival 7010 E. Raymond St., Indianapolis A month-long celebration with tractor-drawn hayrides to a pumpkin patch, a petting zoo, cornfield mazes, live music on weekends and Tyranny, the pumpkineating dinosaur. 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily Sept. 29 to Oct. 3. Adults $7, children $5 on weekdays; adults $8, children $6 on weekends. Information: (317) 356-6995 or www.watermansfarmmarket.com.

A9

A10

Farm Indiana // september 2013

TOP: Johnny Appleseed Festival. BELOW: Feast of the Hunters' Moon. Submitted photos.

A taste of the north Fort Wayne’s Johnny Appleseed Festival celebrates the life and achievements of its namesake John Chapman.

Bridget Kelly, executive committee member and food booth chairwoman for the annual event, says her fellow festival organizers are systematic in recreating the era of the famous tree planter. “I think the crowds are attracted to our vigilance for period authenticity,” she says. “I have seen some period festivals where vendors are selling Purdue and IU memorabilia. Our crafters are strictly juried, and all of the food and entertainment must be appropriate to the period of John Chapman’s lifetime.”

The two-day festival’s historical demonstrations, games, entertainment and food booths beckon to the 19th century, when Chapman roamed Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois planting apple trees as a pioneer nurseryman.

When & where: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 21 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 22. Free admission. Located at Johnny Appleseed Park, 1500 Coliseum Blvd. East in Fort Wayne.

Information: (260) 427-6720 or www.johnnyappleseedfest.com.

Fort 4 Fitness Fall Festival Parkview Field, 1301 Ewing St., Fort Wayne Take part in a series of marathons for all age groups and an expo where local and national exhibitors will provide information on health, wellness and exercise. Free admission to Festival Expo. Sept. 27 and 28. Information: (260) 760-3371 or www.fort4fitness.org.

Feast of the Hunters’ Moon Fort Ouiatenon Park, Lafayette Every autumn on the banks of the Wabash River, festival participants re-enact the mid-18th century fall gatherings of French settlers and Native Americans at Fort Ouiatenon. The event also features authentic period food and demonstrations. One-day ticket and weekend passes available.

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 5 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 6. Information: (765) 476-8411 or www.tcha.mus.in.us/feast.htm.

DeKalb County Free Fall Fair Downtown Auburn and DeKalb County Fairgrounds Featuring a Miss DeKalb pageant, a pet parade, livestock competitions and a midway with rides and concessions. Sept. 23 to 28. Information: (260) 925-1834 or www.dekalbcountyfair.org.

Kewanna Fall Festival Aurora and Logan streets, Kewanna Kewanna’s annual fall fest offers something for everyone — pro wrestling, a reptile zoo, an 18-ride carnival and continuous live music. Free admission. Sept. 27 to 29. Information: (574) 653-2055 or www.rochestertourism.org.

Also in northern Indiana:

Visit www.indianafestivals.org and www.in.gov/visitindiana for more information on festivals happening throughout the state.

WHEAT & SOYBEANS SEED An Independent Seed Company

Ample Supply of High Yielding, High Quality Wheat Seed Conventional Soybeans & Roundup Ready Soybeans Trevor Glick 812.343.8119

Brett Glick 812.371.5532

15120 East Base Line Road Columbus, IN 47203

FAMILY FARMS

Farm Indiana // september 2013

A11

David Armuth devotes his days to the pigs story By barney quick photos by josh marshall

David Armuth

I

t’s not unusual for people to harbor entrepreneurial ambitions from an early age, even fairly unique ones that they must pursue on their own.

David Armuth certainly fits that description, but his ambition was more specialized than most. He wanted to raise show pigs.

Now, at only 26 years old, Armuth owns and operates Armuth Show Pigs, a growing business that raises pigs that have won competitions at fairs in Allen, Bartholomew, Huntington and Switzerland counties, as well as the Indiana State

Fair. Armuth’s business serves customers in several states and is experiencing impressive growth.

“I’ve always wanted to raise livestock,” says Armuth, who was the only member of his immediate family who had such an interest. Raised in Columbus by parents Dave and Christine Armuth, who both worked in the city, Armuth started working for local farmers at a young age. “I saved my money and bought some steers,” he says.

He showed his first hog at the Bartholomew County 4-H Fair at age 17. Since

that experience, “I was kind of hooked,” he says. “I bought my first gilt in 2006. I owned that gilt when I was going to Purdue.”

While at Purdue University, where he studied for two years, Armuth bought some more hogs and rented a Tippecanoe County farm. He embarked on a partnership with a friend. “We took our pigs to shows across the state every weekend,” he recalls.

In 2008, Armuth returned to the Columbus area and rented farmland from father-and-son Bartholomew County farmers Tom and Bill Lentz. His operation is still there today.

Along the way, Armuth has garnered experience working in a large-scale commercial pig-farming operation, and he says that it is a markedly different approach from raising show pigs. “I breed fewer times per year than a large operation,” he explains. “Here, I’m breeding for select markets, so timing is everything.”

Midwestern show pig customers want pigs born in December, January or February. Fall and spring are his busiest times. “I have a few sows bred for late summer,” he says. “I’ll take those to Oklahoma and Texas.”

Those peak times are busy, indeed.

“When my sows are farrowing, I pretty much live in the barn,” he says. “Many a night I’ve been out there until 2 a.m.”

In the show pig realm, there is no natural breeding. “With artificial insemination, there are endless possibilities for custom pairing traits of boars and sows,” he explains. With each litter

he raises, he acquires more knowledge of the traits they’re passing on.

Armuth says that show pig boars become well-known throughout the industry. “If you can breed with one that has produced winners, it’s a big selling point,” he says. He also notes that various traits in sows go in and out of style.

His marketing strategy includes maintaining a website, as well as keeping a membership in the Bartholomew County Pure Bred Swine Breeders Association, which conducts annual sales at the county fairgrounds. Armuth also holds online auctions. “This spring, I sold pigs to Minnesota, Maryland, Colorado and Indiana,” he says. Repeat customers are a big part of his business.

“The good thing about David is that he’ll stop by and help you,” says Bartholomew County farmer Albert O’Connor, one of Armuth’s customers.

“We didn’t know a thing about pigs before we started dealing with him. Every pig is different, and he taught us how to look at each one’s situation, how to feed it to yield more fat or more muscle.”

Price points for show pigs “are entirely different from those in commercial operations,” Armuth says. “In fact, it’s not really even about price. It’s about who has the better hogs and what customers are willing to spend to get that.”

Quality assurance, then, is the highest priority. “A lot of customers go by your track record,” he explains.

Armuth currently has 13 sows, and he says he sells an average of 80 to 90 pigs

WE ARE YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR ALL YOUR PET AND ANIMAL FEED NEEDS powersports.honda.com PIONEER 700-4 IS RECOMMENDED FOR DRIVERS 16 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER, WHO ARE TALL ENOUGH FOR THE SEAT BELT TO FIT PROPERLY AND REACH ALL CONTROLS. PASSENGERS SHOULD ALSO BE TALL ENOUGH FOR THE SEAT BELT TO FIT PROPERLY AND BRACE THEMSELVES, IF NEEDED, BY PLACING BOTH FEET FIRMLY ON THE FLOOR WHILE FIRMLY GRASPING THE HAND HOLD. ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT, A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND CLOTHING APPROPRIATE TO THE DRIVING SITUATION, AND PLEASE RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT. KEEP DOORS AND SIDE NETS CLOSED. READ YOUR OWNER’S MANUAL THOROUGHLY. Pioneer™ is a trademark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2013 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (6/13)

595 E. Tracy Rd., Whiteland, IN 317-535-3700 • www.dreyerhondasouth.com Tues.-Fri. 10-5:30 • Sat 10-4

TIME TO STOCK UP ON BIRD SEED FOR THE WINTER

WE CARRY THESE GREAT BRANDS & MORE!

A12

Farm Indiana // september 2013

Armuth raises his own show pigs when he's not working at a large commercial pig farming operation in Columbus.

each year. “I know each of them individually,” he says. On his website, he provides photographs and detailed information about each sow’s background, such as parentage and prizes won in its lineage.

Piglets are weaned at three weeks. “At 10 to 14 days, I supplement the milk with a little creep feed to give them the taste for it,” he says. Armuth buys a special mix of feed for his show pigs. “It helps give them a little more muscle early on.”

Currently enrolled at IUPUC with a planned major in business management, Armuth has ample opportunity to apply his classroom knowledge to his business. “I definitely want to grow,” he says. “This is an industry that will continue to be strong.”

And if his parents might have once found his chosen profession strange, they’ve since grown accustomed to it. “I think I’ve proven myself to them,” he says. “They fully support me at this point.”

And his customers are in full support of Armuth, too. “He loves what he’s doing, and the remarkable thing is that he did it on his own,” O’Connor says.

It’s true that David Armuth’s dream was a bit unusual for a city boy, but he was never deterred. “I guess I’ve never listened to people telling me I can’t do something.” *FI

For more on Armuth Show Pigs, visit armuthshowpigs.com.

Year End Clearance MADE IN THE USA

41-72” Deck • 23,27 hp Kohler Command Pro • Joystick or Dual Lever steering • Stand-up Deck • Wide Drive Tires and Front Tires • Flexible, Hinged Discharge Chute • High Impact Anti-scalp Deck Rollers

• Heavy Duty Machined Cast Iron Spindles • Engines 18-37 hp Kohler & Kawasaki • Joystick or Dual Lever Steering Options

Dave’s Farm Service

50 N. Eisenhower Dr., Edinburgh, IN • 812-526-5504 Toll Free: 1-866-778-5504

www.davesfarmservice.com

The Next Generation

R-Series

24hp to 80hp, Cabs available with Heater & A/C Hydrostatic Steering Differential Lock & Wet Disc Brakes Hand and Foot Throttles Synchronized Transmission 12 Forward & 12 Reverse 4 Year Limited Warranty Financing Available W.A.C.

Dave’s Farm Service 50 N. Eisenhower Dr., Edinburgh, IN • 812-526-5504 Toll Free: 1-866-778-5504

www.davesfarmservice.com

Farm Indiana // september 2013

A13

All-terrain vehicles prove useful down on the farm story By richard isenhour

Operators of both large and small farms, as well as commercial operations, have discovered many practical uses for ATVs. They can be used to:

M

Check on livestock and inspect crops.

ark Freeman, chief tractor driver, stall cleaner

man says. “My ATV sure saves me a lot of steps and a lot of

and self-proclaimed “lord of the gourd” at

time. I’ve been able to use it for a lot of chores that I used to

Freeman Family Farms, takes seriously the ad-

have to fire up the tractor for. I haul stuff with it and use it

age about all work and no play. In addition to the swarms

to check on the cattle. I can get a lot closer to them than I

of people who buy the canned beef and ground steak he

ever could with the tractor.

and his wife, Yvonne, produce from cattle raised in their

“And the ATV never gets tired.”

pastures, the farm attracts scores of families each fall to

Freeman is believed to be one of the first farmers in

purchase pumpkins, frolic on one of the Freemans’ famous

south-central Indiana to discover the advantages an ATV

hayrides and party by a bonfire.

brings to the farm. While ATVs are extremely popular

On the Freeman farm, in the hills west of Lake Monroe

as recreational vehicles for motorsports fans or off-road

in southern Monroe County, things certainly aren’t dull.

enthusiasts, they’re finding plenty of use in agricultural

And even though tending to the cattle and crops keeps him

settings, according to Tony Davis, manager of the Seymour

busy, Mark Freeman says one reason he has the time to

outlet of Schafstall Inc., the Columbus-based general con-

make it a fun place to be is the ATV — all-terrain vehicle

tracting and agriculture equipment firm.

— he purchased more than 20 years ago.

“I’ve got 80 acres here and another 130 nearby,” Free-

“We sell a lot of ATVs for use in farming, especially the

Herd cattle, especially dairy cattle.

Check on fence lines and inspect and repair irrigation systems.

Haul dirt, fertilizer, lumber, spools of fencing and other things.

Mow grasslands and apply fertilizer to crops or weed killer to weeds.

Get into areas not accessible by truck or tractor.

Scout crops to determine spraying needs.

Transport workers to the field or serve as a pull-behind vehicle so farmers have a way home at the end of the day.

side-by-side models,” Davis notes. “Most can seat two or

See ATV on a15

COVER CROPS

Have your insurance rates increased?

-FALL & WINTER FORAGE -FALL HAY SEEDINGS

Call Decatur County Farmers Mutual Insurance Co. for a quote.

Order now to secure your selection

Alfalfa, Grasses, Triticale, Barley, Spelts, Oats, Rye & Much More!

We have been in business since 1878 and serve Decatur and surrounding counties.

Call 812-663-2105 for your farmowner, homeowner or auto insurance quote today.

Premium products from a reputable supplier

Call Bruce Weaver at

Flat Rock Seed

2002 East 950 South • Flat Rock, IN Cell: 812-374-7107 | Home: 765-525-6443 | bbweaver@afo.net

A14

Farm Indiana // september 2013

Rules & Regulations If you ride your ATV on your farm, following state law will be an easy row to hoe

By Richard Isenhour There are no state regulations governing ATVs — or other off-road vehicles — that are ridden exclusively on private property. However, if you are among the growing number of farmers whose total acreage is not adjacent, you might find yourself having to take to the road to go from field to field. If this is the case, here are state laws governing ATVs that you need to know:

SHOP SMART Choose wisely when buying your ATV Selecting an ATV for farm use is no different than choosing which tractor, truck or implement to buy, says Tony Davis, manager of the Seymour outlet of the Columbus-based Schafstall Inc., a general contracting and agriculture equipment firm.

“Before you start looking, it’s important to determine how you’re going to use the ATV and what you’re going to be asking it to do,” Davis notes. “Like any piece of farm equipment, you can’t expect an ATV to do more that what it is safely designed to do.”

Here are some things he suggests you keep in mind when considering which ATV to buy: Although the sale of three-wheel ATVs has been banned, some are still in use. Avoid buying a used one.

Davis stresses four-wheelers are safer, more stable and have a greater capacity for work.

• All off-road vehicles, including ATVs, must be registered. Application forms are available from most dealers and at most license branches. They also can be printed from the Indiana Department of Natural Resource website (in.gov/dnr).

• Choose an ATV with enough speed and power to do

the job you want it to do. ATVs come equipped with engines ranging in size from 90 to 700 cc — or larger — with gear ratios high enough to allow for speeds up to 70 mph or low enough to allow you to creep along over wet fields and terrain.

• If you’re going to be hauling or towing things with

your ATV, be sure its bed and towing capacity are sufficient enough. Some ATVs, for example, are designed to tow up to 2,000 pounds or more. A good rule of thumb: Don’t buy an ATV that will be lighter than the load you’re going to be hauling or towing.

• If your ATV is going to be a real workhorse, consider

USE THE WEB

Built to Last: An ATV is like any other piece of farm equipment you value. If you want to get the most out of it, you have to take care of it. Here, from atvrider. com, are some tips on how to do that.

• People under the age of 14 may operate an ATV only if they are supervised by someone older than 18 and they are operating the vehicle on property owned or controlled by the person’s parent or guardian.

• An ATV cannot be operated between sunset and sunrise unless it has at least one headlight and one taillight.

buying one with a diesel engine.

• You can’t drive your ATV within 100 feet of a

• Not all terrain is level and smooth, so don’t scrimp

slide, ski or skating area; in a forest nursery, planting area or public land where plants may be damaged or animals injured; on a railroad track or its right-of-way; across a cemetery or burial ground.

on safety features, including rollover protection, seat belts, strap doors, headlights and taillights. Check to see if your ATV’s safety features are OSHA-approved (Occupational Safety and Health Administration).

You wouldn’t buy a combine or tractor without doing your homework.

Buying an ATV should be no different.

There are many makes and models in prices generally ranging from $7,000 to more than $20,000 from which to choose. Major manufacturers include Arctic Cat, Can-Am, Case IH, Honda, John Deere, Kawasaki, Kubota, New Holland, Polaris, Suzuki, Tomberlin and Yamaha. For more information, including models, features and price ranges, go online to atvrideronline.com.

• You can’t operate an ATV on a public highway without a valid driver’s license.

• Most dump beds on ATVs are manually controlled, but if you’re going to be handling heavy product, consider getting one with a hydraulic lift.

• Contact a dealer if you have questions about which

model of ATV to buy and what options to get with it.

For a list of ATV dealers in south-central Indiana, log on to atv.com/dealers/Indiana-atv-dealers.

A handbook detailing Indiana off-road vehicle laws and safe operating procedures is available online from the Department of Natural Resources.

Go to in.gov/dnr and select Publications & Maps.

From that menu, click on Online Publications and Maps and look for it under the Guides section of the Online Publications options.

Get the most out of your ATV 1. Get to know your ATV. Read the manual and become familiar with its operations. Follow the maintenance schedule.

2. Inspect your vehicle regularly and be sure all fluids are topped off.

3. Check tire pressure regularly and make sure all lug nuts are tight.

4. Don’t let the placement of handlebars, brake levers and clutch levers get out of whack. Adjust each to make sure you are comfortable when operating your ATV.

5. Inspect the chain frequently.

Check your manual for the manufacturer’s tension specs and procedures.

6. Pay attention to underside protection. All ATVs offer some form of underside protection, but it might not be adequate for work on the farm. Discuss your specific needs with your dealer.

7. Don’t be afraid to play around and dial in your shocks. Many ATVs come with preloaded adjustments, and you can dial them in to improve ride and performance.

DO YOU WANT...

To sell farm equipment you aren’t using?

To sell your old vehicle that is taking up space?

To advertise a service that only you offer?

We carry feed for all your Horse, Goat, Rabbit, Chicken, Cattle, Swine and Sheep needs in bags or bulk.

800-888-7863

2372 W State Road 46, Greensburg, IN www.lowespellets.com

Contact us today to place your classified ad in

FARM INDIANA CLASSIFIEDS

333 Second St., Columbus | (812) 379-5600

ATV // cont. from a13 four people and come complete with roll bars, strap doors, four-wheel drive, if desired, seat belts, dump beds and as many options as a farmer desires.”

Davis adds ATVs are safe, have multiple uses and are a good replacement,

Simple precautions can go a long way to avoiding injuries

in many instances, for other vehicles, including trucks or tractors, especially subcompact tractors for operators of smaller farms. “(ATVs) handle better and are faster,” Davis explains. “Tractors and farm equipment will always be needed on the farm. But the ATV has found its place.”

Indeed, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were about 400,000 ATVs in operation in the United States in 1985. Today, 9.2 million ATVs are in use, operated by almost 17 million people. On average, ATVs are used one-fourth of the time for work-related activities, including farming.

“Like any piece of farm equipment, you can’t expect an ATV to do more than what it is safely designed to do.”

—tony davis, schafstall, inc.

ATV models typically are divided into the sport and utility markets.

Sport models tend to be lighter, smaller, two-wheel drive vehicles that accelerate quickly. Many have manual transmission and can run up to 80 mph.

Utility models — the type generally found on farms — are bigger and can be used to haul small loads on attached racks or small dump beds. Most utility models are four-wheel drive and are available with diesel engines.

Although several manufacturers produce ATVs, including Honda, Yamaha and John Deere, Davis says Schafstall prefers to sell only those made by Polaris.

Polaris has about 70 percent of the side-by-side market, mostly because it is the workhorse of the industry, Davis explains. “The new Brutus model, for example, is powered by diesel with a hydrostatic transmission. It also has four-wheel drive and tremendous load capacity. You can even put a 66-inch mower attachment on it.”

Regardless of the make, Davis stresses farmers should select the model that will be able to do the job it will be called upon to do.

“Like any piece of farm equipment, you can’t expect an ATV to do more than what it is safely designed to do,” Davis says. He recommends farmers and landowners consult with their local dealer to find the right ATV for the job. *FI

The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that more than 125,000 individuals were treated in the nation’s hospital emergency rooms for ATV-related injuries in recent years. Also, nearly 10,000 people were hospitalized, and more than 400 deaths were recorded. Almost 17 percent of all ATV-related accidents happened on the farm, resulting in more than 20 fatalities on American farms each year.

Here, some tips to reduce the risks of injury from ATV accidents on the farm.

Avoid public roads or streets. ATVs aren’t designed for road use, and hard surfaces increase the risk of your ATV flipping over.

Don’t carry a passenger. Riders may hamper the operator’s ability to steer and control the ATV. ATVs are not toys, so young teens and children under the age of 12 shouldn’t operate one.

Uneven terrain makes pulling or carrying a load treacherous. Heavier, four-wheel ATVs have lower centers of gravity and present less risk.

Reduce the risk of flipping your ATV over by not carrying more than one-third the weight of the ATV. Don’t carry more of a load than the manufacturer recommends.

Hitch only to the manufacturer’s hitch.

Full-face helmets should be worn when operating an ATV. Head or face protection might not be needed when working at slow speed, but it’s still a good idea to wear eye protection.

Complete your farming ATV wardrobe by donning quality boots or over-the-ankle work shoes.

If you use a pesticide applicator with your ATV, it’s extremely important that you follow the pesticide label for the use of safety gear because of your close proximity to the applicator, spray nozzle and treated material.

Fall

Join Us For Our 3rd Annual

Saturday, September 14th Join us for our 3rd Annual Fall Festival including our 5th Annual Monarch Butterfly Tagging Day. Come and enjoy the festival or put up a booth containing garden art, antique garden items, recycled antiques and art, new garden craft items, bird houses and home grown vegetables.

Formulated for Genetically Superior Cattle www.wischmeiernursery.com 240 Jonesville Rd. • 812-372-4662

Azalia Elevator Inc.

Elizabethtown, IN 812- 579- 5475

r e h c t e l F

named indiana’s #1 Ram Truck Dealer Keep your business on the road and your profits in the black

Contact Keith Fox at 317-560-0941 ram 2500 crew laramie 4x4

48,632

Ram 3500

Ram 5500

51,594

$ T12777

T12898

ram Cargo Van

ram 5500 Chassis

56,868

$ T13363

36,316

$

$

T13168

Ram 1500 ST

22,501

23,609

$ T12196

32,030

$

Fletcher Open Monday-thru Friday 8am-8pm • Saturday 8am-6pm

T12963

Starting at

29,111

$

Because of timeline of ad, price and rebate may change.

3099 N. Morton St., (U.S. 31) Franklin, IN

1-866-618-9077

T13086

dodge Durango AWD

Ram 2500 ST 4x4

T13191

$

8 miles south of the Greenwood Park Mall

Discount price includes rebates. *Lease payments plus tax, includes all rebates w/2,999 down or trade equity. **Lease payments plus tax, sign & drive lease $0 down. Includes trade cash & conquest trade bonus. Conquest trade is something other than a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram vehicle. See dealer for details. Special APR & lease with approved credit.

See our specials online www.fletcherchrysler.com

september 2013 | Section B

FAMILY FARMS

A Farming Tradition

Judson Vaught and Bill Kirklin follow in the footsteps of their forefathers story By ryan trares photos by josh marshall

The Vaught family, from left, Nathaniel, Flanders, Martha and Judson, stand in front of their farmhouse built in the 1870s.

B2

Farm Indiana // september 2013

O

n a stretch of land outside Franklin, rich, dark brown dirt gives life to thigh-high soybean plants. On other parts of the land, wax beans grow in thick bunches and seed corn, which will eventually be sold to a grain company in Rushville, stands more than 8 feet tall.

Members of the Vaught family aren’t sure why their ancestors chose this slice of land to settle and start farming more than 175 years ago, but they are thankful for it. The area is blessed by fertile ground that, even during lean years, produces good crops, farmer Judson Vaught says.

The Vaught family received a 150-year Hoosier Homestead award for their farm in 2009. The distinctions are given to those who have kept land in the same family for 100, 150 and sometimes as many as 200 years. The farm is one of only 17 in the county to receive the honor. “There aren’t a lot of those farms anymore,” Vaught says. “They’ve been wiped out.”

Vaught family members rise before the sun comes up and spend hours tilling, irrigating, plowing and planting the fields. They use modern machinery, irrigation systems and other technologies to increase their yields, protect against drought, make their jobs easier and to protect their farms from being wiped out, too. Still times can be tough, and they are forced to persevere. They are farmers, after all, and that’s something they hope will never change.

“I’ve been really fortunate to do what I love to do, even if it’s been

rough at times,” Vaught says. “I want to give credit to my forebears, and certainly for my neighbors, who have made it a really good place to farm.”

Sitting on his front porch, Vaught tells the history of the family farm, pointing out over the fields of crops to where important family events have occurred.

The farm was established in 1835 on 80 acres. The family arrived from the south, traveling through the mountain passes of the Appalachians to reach Indiana. His ancestor, Sarah Vaught, and her five children first settled on the land that now sits in Johnson County. Ever since, a Vaught has taken up residence here.

Houses built by the family dot the countryside. He points out the location of a house constructed by George Washington Vaught in the 1800s, and another home that his great-grandfather, Barney Marcellus Vaught, built.

Judson Vaught purchased the homestead from his father in 1978, who had bought it from his uncle in the 1950s. The house where Vaught lives is an Italianate-style home built in the 1870s. The back half, with thick timbers and slatted walls, is the original structure built by his ancestors.

A fenced-in pasture houses three Arabian horses, including a 33-year-old mare. When Vaught married his sweetheart, Martha, they each bought the other a horse as a wedding gift. Though one of those horses died, the other is still alive. Martha is active in equestrian activities throughout the state, and

Judson Vaught tests the watering system after having it repaired.

The 2014 PIONEER™ 700-4 THE ONLY SIDE-BY-SIDE WITH CONVERTIBLE 2-3-4 SEATING.

Greensburg Motorsports

1512 Commerce W. Dr. • Greensburg, IN 47240 812-663-2009 • www.greensburgmotorsports.com powersports.honda.com PIONEER 700-4 IS RECOMMENDED FOR DRIVERS 16 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER, WHO ARE TALL ENOUGH FOR THE SEAT BELT TO FIT PROPERLY

AND REACH ALL CONTROLS. PASSENGERS SHOULD ALSO BE TALL ENOUGH FOR THE SEAT BELT TO FIT PROPERLY AND BRACE THEMSELVES, IF NEEDED, BY PLACING BOTH FEET FIRMLY ON THE FLOOR WHILE FIRMLY GRASPING THE HAND HOLD. ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT, A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND CLOTHING APPROPRIATE TO THE DRIVING SITUATION, AND PLEASE RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT. KEEP DOORS AND SIDE NETS CLOSED. READ YOUR OWNER’S MANUAL THOROUGHLY. Pioneer™ is a trademark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2013 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (6/13)

112HC119 – 4C MY ’14 Key Model Product Admats Rnd 1 7.625” x 5.25” MODEL: PIONEER 700-4 Category: SXS/MUV PAGE 1 July 12, 2013 5:06 PM

2013 ATV CLEARANCE EVENT

UP TO

1000

$

BONUS BUCKS O N S E L E C T R A N C H E R M O D E L S **

AS LOW AS

299 2 .99%

FIXED APR FINANCING F O R 3 6 M O N T H S O N A P P R OV E D C R E D I T *

GET INCREDIBLE DEALS ON INCREDIBLE ATVS.

Greensburg Motorsports

1512 Commerce W. Dr. • Greensburg, IN 47240 812-663-2009 • www.greensburgmotorsports.com SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS

powersports.honda.com

UTILITY ATVs ARE RECOMMENDED ONLY FOR RIDERS 16 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER. BE A RESPONSIBLE RIDER. ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING, AND PLEASE RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT. OBEY THE LAW AND READ YOUR OWNER’S MANUAL THOROUGHLY. *2.99% Fixed APR financing available for customers who qualify for super preferred credit tier for up to 36 months through Honda Financial Services SM. Payment example: 36 monthly payments of $29.08 for each $1,000 financed. Offer good on all new and unregistered FourTrax ® models. Not all buyers may qualify. Higher rates apply for buyers with lower credit ratings.

Offer ends 9/30/13. **$1000 Bonus Bucks valid on 2013 and prior TRX420FPM/FPE models and $500 Bonus Bucks valid on 2013 and prior TRX420FA/FPA/FE/FM/TE/TM models. $700 Bonus Bucks valid on 2013 and prior TRX500FPE/FPM models, $500 Bonus Bucks valid on 2013 and prior TRX500FE/FM models and $300 Bonus Bucks valid on 2013 and prior TRX500FA/FPA models. Bonus Bucks redeemable only for purchases at dealer on purchase date. No cash value.

Non-transferable. Redemption value is not to exceed $1000. Offer ends 10/31/13. Check with participating Honda Dealers for complete details. FourTrax ® is a trademark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2013 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (8/13)

HC139 4.25"x7" Honda 2013 ATV Clearance Ad 3

For more information, contact Amber Fischvogt (812) 376-7772 or afischvogt@heritagefundbc.org

Farm Indiana // september 2013

B3

“I’ve been really fortunate to do what I love to do, even if it’s been rough at times.”

—judson vaught

their farm provides plenty of ground for horses to run.

Judson and his half brother, Bill Kirklin, share the farming responsibilities. They raise soybeans, waxy maize for food ingredient supplier Ingredion and corn seed for Pioneer on about 1,400 acres, most of which they rent.

The diversity of crops helps to ensure the farm continues to make a profit. Not that some years haven’t been trying.

It took the family at least three years to recover after the droughts in 1983 and 1988. The experiences convinced Vaught and Kirklin to put in an irrigation system so they could secure contracts for their seed corn and better withstand the unpredictable weather.

Last summer’s drought didn’t take the toll that others had, due to the irrigation system. The aquifer under their property connects to Lake Erie, which helps it to replenish. So the drought didn’t prevent them from using their three wells to feed the irrigation system.

But with different fields needing water, they had to move the system to different areas, a task that seemed constant and was physically exhausting. “We were worn out, trying to keep up with the irrigation,” Vaught recalls. “We were trying to move it from this side, to another, then move it back. It got to the point where you almost dreaded going to work.”

Rust and sand had also clogged the screen on one of the wells, costing as much to replace it as to clean it. “It was a bad year for everything to start going,” Kirklin recalls.

Beyond making technological improvements to keep up with the industry, they are both supporters of agricultural sustainability and want to see the continued regulated use of herbicides and insecticides.

Environmental contamination and top-soil degradation are threats to farming, and the two understand that the longterm health of their livelihood relies on sustainability. “We probably won’t get it there in our lifetime, but it’s something we’d like to see,” Vaught says.

They have watched as suburban sprawl has crept closer to their land, taking other longtime farms. Being so close to Indianapolis, approximately 25 miles south of the city, has been both a blessing and a burden. The proximity ensures they can quickly get parts or move their harvest at ease. But as the city has grown, it has encroached on land that used to be nothing but crops. Though they don’t blame the farmers and families who had to sell — land is fetching a high price these days. Kirklin feels farmers “have sort of a responsibility to preserve this land. It almost seems like a slap to our ancestors to sell it.”

But eventually they may have to sell their land, too.

Kirklin’s children live on the East Coast and have careers outside farming. Vaught’s son, Nathaniel, attends Indiana University, where he’s working on earning a master’s degree in public policy. Vaught’s daughter, Flanders, is attending Transylvania University in Kentucky to earn a degree in art history.

The farming tradition may stop after this generation, which is a sobering thought for the pair. But they understand they can’t force their children into a career they don’t want.

“Farming’s not something you do unless you really enjoy it,” Kirklin says. “You don’t want to be miserable doing something you don’t have a passion for.” *FI

The Vaught Farm Owners: Judson Vaught and Bill Kirklin Location: Franklin Founded: 1836 Judson Vaught and his half brother, Bill Kirklin, at their farm just outside Franklin.

Acreage: About 1,400, mostly rented Crops: Soybeans, waxy maize and seed corn

“ACHIEVING AN UNMATCHED STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE”

Letts Hardware & Equipment, Inc. 4987 W County Rd 700 S, Greensburg (812) 591-2221 lettshardware@gmail.com

Videos at: www.KuhnNorthAmerica.com

Full service design and construction. Material sales by appointment.

B4

Farm Indiana // september 2013

FAMILY FARMS

Tour Guides

Carol and Don Layman

Carol and Don Layman help area children connect with nature story By ed wenck photos by josh marshall

I

n his best-selling work “Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder,” Richard Louv writes: “Our society is teaching young people to avoid direct experience in nature. That lesson is delivered in schools, families, even organizations devoted to the outdoors, and codified into the legal and regulatory structures of many of our communities.

Our institutions, urban/suburban design and cultural attitudes unconsciously associate nature with doom — while disassociating the outdoors from joy and solitude.”

Louv goes on to illustrate just how this loss of contact with the simple pleasures of playing in the mud is detrimental to our development; in fact, he has found linkages to “nature-deficit” and childhood obesity, attention-deficit disorder and even depression.

There’s a married couple in North Vernon who intuitively knew this was a problem and decided to fix this “deficit” for a few local children.

Since the early 1980s, Carol Layman and her husband, Don, have been trying to help kids experience nature as is — in the wild, and not on a computer screen or in a museum.

When children first started visiting the acreage where the Laymans live, which they have named “StillWaters,” Carol was stunned: “(The children) knew about prehistoric animals and zoo animals, but they didn’t know a mallard from a muskrat.”

The Laymans own 44 acres of rolling hills, streams, a five-acre lake, gullies and cornfields, all traversed by trails and footbridges. After moving onto the land in 1983, the couple

began to set up field days for the local elementary school kids. After a bit of trial and error, the Laymans concluded that second-graders were the perfect audience for what they had to offer: “They’re potty-trained, and you can fit more second- than third-graders into a boat,” says Carol with a laugh.

The tours went like this: First, the class would be split up into thirds.

One group would join Carol for a walk on the trail, one group would join Don on his boat, and the third would be permitted free play in the sand on the shore of StillWaters lake … under the watchful eye of an adult, of course. Then the groups would switch places. The tours are offered at no charge to the school or the students. “One teacher told me they learned more out here than she could teach in a year,” says Carol proudly.

She outlines some of the favorite lessons she has developed over the years. She shows the children “devil’s walking sticks, whirligig beetles, wood ducks” (duck spotting includes finding the nests of the animals) and “a cattail lesson,” she says. Carol seems especially fond of the cattail lesson, noting for her young tourists that the native people used every bit of the plant. A big hit with the children, she says, is when they can see red-winged blackbirds because the birds’ nests “are down low and we can look in.”

After the children board the boat with Don, he shows them how fish and geese live in the wild. They also get lessons on how a dam works and in paddling a watercraft, which often results in most of the passengers getting drenched from inexperience. “We give ’em landing nets. They always think they’re going to catch something,” says Don, “and we point out the turtles and the frogs from the boat.”

While the students usually are so enthralled by the experience that

they ask when they’ll be back for a second visit before the first even ends, now and then a child is a bit skittish about getting back to nature.

“There was one little boy — he was a second-grader — and he comes down here in a London Fog topcoat and asked Don to hold his wallet,” remembers Carol.

“There’s always one,” chuckles Don. The Laymans — in addition to providing lifejackets to every child who boards the boat and making careful note of allergies and other special requests — do let parents know that the kids should wear old clothes and shoes suitable for a frolic in the mud. Still, says Carol, “there’s always that little girl in white ballerina slippers.”

Carol and Don are making sure that their children and great-grandchildren are among the 3,000-plus who have experienced StillWaters.

“We make sure they all get back to nature,” says Carol.

And now multiple generations have experienced the property. “One (field trip) bus driver had been here back when

he was in second grade,” Carol recalls.

The pool of kids who can experience this resource is shrinking. According to the Laymans, the local school district began disallowing trips during the month of May and insisted that all six classes that made the trek arrive on a single day. The Laymans had previously split the tours up over the course of two days.

Because they don’t feel that the experience is at its richest until May, scheduling has become problematic.

Additionally, says Carol, “We’re both past 75. … I’d have to walk around that trail six times in one day.”

She gives a resigned sigh. “Now it’s all home-schoolers, church groups,” who visit, she says, “but that’s kind of nice. They can bring their lunch and stay all day.” *FI

StillWaters, 2730 W. County Road 200N, North Vernon, (812) 346-2780

Farm Indiana // september 2013

B5

Clockwise from top left: A wall with approximately 200 photos shows the many adventures Don has taken all over the country. The Laymans offer visiting children the opportunity to ride in a canoe. Carol says that the ride is a first for most of them. She points out the three types of sassafras leaves.

The view that the Laymans enjoy from their swing.

ABER’S N E I N FARM MARKET

6970 W. SR 46 Columbus IN 47201 Like us on facebook!

812.342.3606

HOURS

Tues - Friday 8:30am-6pm Saturday 8:30am-2pm

Sweet Corn • Heirloom Tomatoes • Green Beans Watermelon • Cantaloupe • Jellies & Jams Ahlemeyer Farms Pies and Breads

NOW OPEN: Mon-Sat 9-7 Sunday 9-6

We are located at I-65, exit 50 west, 3 miles on left.

B6

Farm Indiana // september 2013

the minds and plates n o is d o fo n w ro g lly Loca cates of Hoosier health advo wenck story By ed

Dutch acres equipment 110 CommerCe dr, Franklin, in • 317-738-9022 8669 s. st. rd. 67, mooresville, in • 317-584-3042

Farm Indiana // september 2013

Vendor Patty Wullenweber, right, chats with a customer at the North Vernon Farmers Market. The Republic file photo

A

Sunday drive through rural Indiana offers evidence of what we here in flyover country know intuitively: Large swaths of Hoosier farmland are dedicated to government-subsidized commodity crops like corn and soybeans. But what if a farmer in Bartholomew County could be convinced to take some small part of his acreage and dedicate it to raising broccoli and squash for sale at the local farmers market or as part of the menu at one of the many “farm-to-fork” eateries popping up around the state? What would that mean for the health and well-being of a local citizen’s waistline and wallet?

Beth Morris, the director of Community Health Partnerships for Columbus Regional Health, says her group has “eight initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles … and one of those under that umbrella is promoting growing and consuming locally produced food.” Columbus Regional has contracted with Ken Meter from a nonprofit group called Crossroads Resource Center to discuss his recent studies into the origins of foods consumed in Indiana.

Meter took a look at dozens of cities and towns throughout Indiana, and through those studies he discovered that 96 percent of the food consumed in Bartholomew County is imported from beyond county and even state lines. Similar percentages occurred elsewhere in the state.

Meter’s statewide-ranging 179-page report, commissioned by Indiana State Department of Health and delivered in January 2012, found a state that had made progress, but still had work to do: “Direct sales from farmers to consumers rose 38% from 1992-2007. Over 100 communities host farmers’ markets …. Many emerging farms sell memberships so consumers can

More on Ken Meter

Ken Meter’s full statewide report can be found at www.crcworks.org/infood.pdf.

B7

share the risks of farming. Backyard and community gardens have sprung up across the state as Hoosiers decide to produce food for themselves. Grocers, restaurants, and distributors now feature foods produced by Hoosier farmers …. However, the market has failed many Hoosiers, and seems unable to respond to the burgeoning demand for local food. More than one of every four Hoosiers earns so little that they are in jeopardy of not eating well — a remarkable statistic in the nation’s tenth-largest farm state.”

Through his studies, Meter became acquainted with Hoosier culture and saw “this whole sense that Indiana’s role was to feed the rest of the world,” he says. “That seemed like a really marvelous goal, but then you say, ‘You’re feeding the world, but you’re importing $13 billion worth of food.’ I think that shocked several people. … I’ve had independent business owners call me up and tell me that (buying local) is the future of Indiana agriculture.”

While Meter’s final report for the Columbus area will be released in September, he’s already shared ways that other communities can create local food webs, as some other states have done.

In Wisconsin, for instance, “there are school districts that are able to buy local food year-round despite the climate (there),” says Morris. “They have some processing plants where a farmer can ship their goods, and it can be canned or whatever. There are some missing pieces to that food web here in Bartholomew County.”

Morris is well aware that Meter’s presentation might not be an easy sell for farmers incentivized in the manner of growing grains for high-fructose syrup, but “there’s a new generation of farmers coming in, too,” she says.

“They’re looking to fit in the economy and the ecology a little bit differently.”

Events: Local Farm and Food Economy in Bartholomew County Date: Sept. 10 Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: Columbus City Hall, 123 Washington St. Cost: Free, with lunch included, if RSVP by Sept. 6 to healthycommunities@crh.org Info: www.WhatsYourReach.org Local Farm and Food Economy in Jackson County Date: Sept. 11 Time: 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Location: Jackson County Learning Center, 323 Dupont Drive, Seymour Cost: Free; RSVP to mmarshall@crh.org Info: (812) 376-5043.

34TH ANNIVERSARY

We Do ALL GM Warranty Work!

We are now in the showroom!

Our service area now offers 30 service bays and our detail shop will be opening soon. We appreciate the patience you’ve had during the construction and as we work on the finishing touches. Come in and find great deals during our 34th Anniversary this month!

Bob Poynter GM is your certified GM dealer for Bartholomew County.

ENTER TO WIN A SPARK!

2013 SPARK

Enter to be a daily finalist to win the Chevrolet Spark by visiting our webpage at www.bobpoyntergm.com, our facebook page at bob poynter gm cars & trucks or sign up in the new showroom.

Drawing is October 26th.

GM’S BEST CAR IN ITS CLASS! MSRP $37,635 Our Discount - $500 ________________

$ 37,135

2014 IMPALA

2014 Consumer Reports gives the newly redesigned Chevrolet Impala the highest score among all sedans.

GM say it’s the best car in its class!

1209 E. TIPTON ST.,

SEYMOUR

812 -522-4187 812-372-5270 SALES. SERVICE. SATISFACTION.

Like Us On Facebook At Bob Poynter GM Cars & Trucks!

B8

Farm Indiana // september 2013

Meter echoes that sentiment: Asking a farmer who has invested millions in equipment designed to harvest corn and whose flat, vast acreage is well-suited to mechanization to shift even a fraction of his focus away from that commodity crop isn’t a win. However, some farmers have found that growing local, specialty foods — or even venturing into niche businesses like farm-to-fork catering, for example — brings local goods to local consumers and has even turned failing farms into profitable businesses.

“We don’t need that much land to raise enough vegetables for everybody, and it doesn’t threaten commodity crops in any way,” Meter says. His report on the state is full of stories of children who asked their families for 5-acre parcels to grow veggies for the local farmers market and former hog farmers who now specialize in gourmet sausage after turning their focus from raising commodities to raising food for their neighbors.

The primary motive for this shift comes back to simple economics. Meter’s early findings have revealed this startling stat: If every household spent just $5 more per week on local food, that would increase local farm incomes in the county by a whopping $31 million. There are hidden cost-benefits, too — eating more healthful veggies means less fat and sugar in the Hoosier diet, and reducing obesity saves the county money in health-care costs and improves worker productivity.

In order to get the most from that produce, however, preparation is key. That’s why cooking classes, especially designed for middle and low-income folks, are being offered at farmers markets in the county. “There’s a whole generation that really doesn’t know how to cook,” explains Morris.

While farm-to-fork eateries are gaining traction with Indiana’s “foodie” community, showing the larger population how much

tastier locally grown produce can be is another mission close to Morris’ heart. As a result of her efforts, “the hospital cafeteria does some farm to fork, the two school corporations in our county do some farm to fork,” she says.

Morris and her organization are striving to show folks that food that isn’t traveling thousands of miles from field to plate often retains more flavor and nutrients, and pumps more dollars back into the community coffers.

Neighborhood and community gardens are also high on the priority list for those in the city limits, but, alas, backyard poultry is off limits in Columbus. (Interestingly, chickens are allowed in the state capital; Indianapolis has no ordinances restricting the raising of hens or roosters.)

“More than one of every four Hoosiers earns so little that they are in jeopardy of not eating well — a remarkable statistic in the nation’s tenth-largest farm state.”

—ken meter, Crossroads Resource Center

Meter stresses that when he presents his next set of findings in early September, “the purpose of those meetings is not just to throw data in front of these people.” The folks who created a successful local food co-op in southwest Wisconsin “spent two and a half years just sitting down and having meetings,” he explains. “A lot of folks just want to jump in and make a lot of money right away, and that often leads to dead-ends.”

Indiana, though, may be a step ahead of the game. Meter is happy to note that the notion of buying locally in the face of growing globalized agriculture has been bubbling in some form or another in the Hoosier state for over 40 years. *FI

Mike Ferree waters tomato plants on a plot where he has grown vegetables in the community garden near the intersection of Ninth Street and Lafayette Avenue in Columbus.

The Republic file photo

SERVING SOUTH-CENTRAL INDIANA

Jacobi Sales, Inc. 415 Stevens Way, Seymour, IN 47274 (812) 523-5050 550 Earlywood Dr., Franklin, IN 46131 (317) 738-4440

4329 N. U.S. 31, Seymour, In 47274 | 812.522.5199 Mon–Fri 7 AM – 5 PM Located On U.S. 31 One Mile South Of U.S. 50 And U.S. 31

Farm Indiana // september 2013

B9

The sun peeks through the trees at the Vallonia Tree Nursery. BELOW: Bob Hawkins shows some of the 50 different seeds stored in the cooler.

Vallonia Tree Nursery offers seedlings — some for free — to green up the Hoosier state story By marcia walker

T

photos by josh marshall

here is a tree waiting at no charge for every third-grade student in Indiana whose school participates in the Arbor Day program. There is also a free tree waiting for every school corporation in Indiana that wants to plant one on school grounds.

The trees — mere seedlings at this stage of the game — are growing at the Vallonia Tree Nursery, not far from the town of the same name in southern Jackson County. Thousands of trees are produced annually here.

If you want to know the ins and outs, ups and downs, of the tree growing business, have a chat with Bob Hawkins, nursery section supervisor, who oversees operations at Vallonia. Hawkins, who has a degree in forestry from Purdue University, has worked for the state of Indiana for 26 years. Prior to signing on in the Hoosier state, he worked for the state of Maine as a back country ranger.

“There’s not a day that goes by that I say, ‘I don’t want to go to work,’” the avid outdoorsman says. “I love what I do. … It’s a very rewarding career.”

Of the nursery’s 250 acres, 120 are irrigated, which enabled it to weather last year’s drought, although it created a struggle for the nursery’s custom-

5969 E US 50 Seymour, IN 47274 812-522-2367

ers, who had just planted trees in the spring of 2012.

“They had some tough times with survival,” Hawkins says. “The seedlings didn’t get the moisture they needed at a critical time.”

But with 4 million seedlings produced annually at the nursery, there’s plenty more to take the place of the trees that succumbed. “We grow 50 different species, all grown from seed,” Hawkins says. “We like to get, and are able to get, the majority of seed from (within) the state of Indiana so that means they are going to be acclimated to this area.”

Those 50 species include trees familiar to most Hoosiers, such as the state tree, tulip poplar, to more unusual varieties, such as pecan. One rare tree that is being grown at the nursery is yellow-wood, found growing naturally in only a few states, including in Brown County in Indiana.

To the untrained eye, seedlings look like little more than sticks with thin, stringy-looking roots attached.

But given the right care and conditions, they will turn into full-sized trees sown for conservation purposes.

“We grow trees for windbreaks, erosion control, wildlife enhancement and reforestation,” Hawkins explains. “Some of our biggest customers are coal mines in southern Indiana. Once they’ve harvested coal, they are required by law to reclaim that ground so they plant trees on it.”

5969 E US 50 Seymour, IN 47274 812-522-2367

B10

Farm Indiana // september 2013

The nursery employs seven full-time people, but as many as 36 help to pull and package the trees during the nursery’s peak seasons in fall and spring. Seeds, which are purchased from the public as well as acquired from seed orchards, are planted in the spring. The seedlings are “pulled” in the fall and placed in cold storage for customers to pick up the following spring.

“Around November, trees become dormant, and we start lifting them out of the ground,” Hawkins explains. “We package and store them in big coolers for spring pick up and planting.”

The nursery’s mission is not to compete with commercial operations that offer trees for landscaping or ornamental purposes to homeowners. Orders, placed during the fall, can range from a minimum of 100 to as many as 400,000, purchased by some of the coal mines.

And each order, no matter the size, is meant to be given back to the land where it first grew.

“We feel the person purchasing 100 trees is just as important as the person buying thousands of trees,” Hawkins says. “Anyone in the state of Indiana can purchase our seedlings, but they have to be planted in Indiana.” *FI

> TREES FOR FREE

Vallonia State Tree Nursery 2782 W. Road 540S, Vallonia, (812) 358-9033, vallonianursery@dnr.in.gov.

Information: www.dnr.IN.gov/forestry.

Every Indiana school receives a letter in January regarding the Arbor Day program giveaways.

To receive seedlings for third-graders, the school’s Arbor Day coordinator or principal must return the postcard by the date indicated in the letter.

Schools wanting to plant a tree on school grounds need to order them at the same time as the seedlings. For the past several years, about 50,000 trees have been distributed through the promotion.

The mission: To grow and distribute to landowners high-quality plant materials for conservation plantings. Conservation plantings include planting for timber, wildlife, windbreaks, soil and water protection, reclamation, carbon sequestering and education.

Nursery employee Duane Freeman

New seedlings approximately 4 inches tall now will be harvested and sold in the spring.

7th SEASON

EXPERIENCE . . . m r a F e h t

SEPT 28TH IS OPENING DAY! Open Fridays 6-10 p.m.; Saturdays Noon-10 p.m. & Sundays Noon-6 p.m.

JOIN US FOR

7 years of fun on the farm!

www.kelsayfarms.com

™

THE 2013 750 4x4 EPS LE

MASSIVE POWER. ROCK-SOLID CONSTRUCTION.750 4x4 EPS LE UNBEATABLE COMFORT. MASSIVE POWER. EVERYTHING IT TAKES TO BE OFF-ROAD RATED. ROCK-SOLID CONSTRUCTION. UNBEATABLE COMFORT.

™

EVERYTHING IT TAKES TO BE OFF-ROAD RATED.

KID AC T S ALL W IVITIES EEKEN D!

• Corn Maze • Farm Tours • Corn Crib • Bale Mountain • Hayrides • Moo Choo train rides • Play area for kids under 5 • Staff-led kids’ activities • Dairy snacks & pumpkins available for purchase

Featuring

Located on CR 250 E. in Whiteland between Tracy Road and Worthsville Rd. (East of I-65)

THE 2013

A ‘Spookley’ themed corn maze just for kids!

$8 per person for ALL activities

Columbus Kawasaki 6320 E. State St. Columbus, IN • 812-378-8805

Farm Indiana // september 2013

National organization helps farmers in need

I

story By jeff tryon photos by josh marshall

n 1979, an injured farmer reached out to Purdue University’s Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering for help modifying his tractor so he could continue working on his land. That request led to the creation of the Breaking New Ground Resource Center, a place where injured or disabled farmers could go for information on assistive technologies.

In 1990, the U.S. Department of Agriculture began funding the program, and Breaking New Ground served as a model for AgrAbility, a project that is an internationally recognized resource and serves dozens of states in partnership with universities and nonprofit disability services and organizations.

Linda Tarr, who works for Hoosier Uplands Economic Development Corp., a southern Indiana organization dedicated to helping the poor, elderly and

Tyler Easterday's Orleans home has a view of hundreds of acres of corn.

LET US CATER YOUR NEXT EVENT! Home Cooking for

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner • Catering Daily 6:00am – 8:00pm Saturday 6:00am – 2:00pm

(812) 376-6386

1602 State St. • Columbus

FAMILY RESTAURANT

disabled, serves as AgrAbility’s program coordinator.

One of her clients, Tyler Easterday, who suffers from an inherited degenerative muscle disease that affects his ability to do farm work, just had a new lift installed on his truck that will enable him to get into a combine or tractor.

Easterday, who farms 250 acres of corn, soybeans and wheat alongside his father and brother near Orleans, says technicians installed a lift on his pickup with a boom arm “kind of like a log truck” and a remote control to operate it.

“It raises you up and puts you right on your top step or in the seat of your equipment,” he says. “When you get out, you just pull up to where the pickup sits and use the remote control to bring the arm up to the top step or your seat.”

He says there are things he is still unable to do, like climbing in and out of grain bins, but he hopes to spend more time in the field thanks to the improve-

B11

B12

Farm Indiana // september 2013

Tyler Easterday uses his chair lift to get into a tractor at his southern Indiana farm.

BELOW: Agrability Program Coordinator Linda Tarr helped Easterday through the process of installing the

ments made to his truck. “Whatever I want to get into that I can’t get into, I’ll just use that lift,” he says. “It makes it a lot easier to get into equipment with it.”

He says AgrAbility is also helping him make his bathroom more accessible. “I’m not having too many problems now, but they’re helping me to look toward the future, look down the road a little piece,” he says.

“What I’ve got, it just gets worse.”

Farmer Mark Hosier was paralyzed when he was hit by a falling 2,000 pound bale of hay in 2006. AgrAbility coordinators helped figure out what he needed to keep working.

“A farmer’s got to farm,” Hosier says. “All a farmer wants to do is just get back out and farm. Anytime you’re able to go out and work, you feel like you’re a productive citizen. You’re not sitting around expecting someone to take care of you.”

With help from AgrAbility, Hosier was able to find funding for the installation of chair lifts and hand controls on his tractors and a running board lift and scooter carrier on his truck so that he could continue to work on his 300-acre, third-generation farm near Alexandria.

“Until I got the lifts on, I would have the wheelchair in the scoop, and I would have someone lift me up into the combine that way,” he recalls. “My wife was not happy. It wasn’t the safest mode, but I needed to go out and run a combine.”

The program reaches beyond the farmers using wheelchairs to also serve those with hearing or sight problems, diseases such as diabetes, or mental problems.

AgrAbility has even looked at partnering with the Arthritis Foundation to provide resources for farmers through a program called Arthritis in Ag, Tarr says.

“We serve any farm-related family, or even some of the workers might qualify, if they’ve worked so many hours on the farm, if they’ve had an injury or an illness that keeps them from doing what they normally do.”

The organization links prospective clients with appropriate agencies and guides them to appropriate resources, such as “The Toolbox,” an online database full of assistive technology ideas and tools, like modi-

fied hand controls for utility vehicles, tools with extended handles, and heavy-duty outdoor wheelchairs and scooters.

AgrAbility does not provide direct funding or equipment modifications. Staff members instead help customers work with Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services, a state agency for individuals with significant disabilities.

Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services provides assessments, training and support to customers who are receiving support through federal, state and insurance vocational programs or through personal funds.

“We try to help them get the funding for what they need, make sure it gets installed and do periodic follow-up with them after that,” Tarr explains. *FI

For more information, visit www.agrability.org, www.breakingnewground.info and www.votechrehab.com.

’03 IH 9100i Tandem Daycab, 430HP ’96 IH 8100 w/Cummins & 9 Spd, ’93 NEW 34’ Jet Steel Hopper, ROUNDED Detroit, 10 Spd, Air Ride, GREAT Agritrader 30’ Steel Hopper w/Roll HOPPERS, Site Windows, Roll Tarp, READY GRAIN HAULER--$23,500 (I03627) Tarp-GRAIN COMBO--$22,000.00 FOR THE FIELD--$27,500(includes FET)

’07 IH 9400i Tandem Daycab, 435HP Cummins, 10 Spd, 167” WB, Jake, Air Ride--$29,500 (I07536)

’05 IH 4300, DT466 245HP, Allison Auto w/PTO Gear, #33K GVW, Air Brakes--$25,000 (I05583)

’84 GMC 7000, 427V8 Gas, 5 & 2, Air Brakes, Low Miles, TAKE UP TO 16’ GRAIN BED--$5,000

1026 N. Lincoln St. • Greensburg, IN 812-663-7111 • www.shirksinternational.com

Sales Hours: M-F 8-5, Sat 8-12 Service Hours: M-F 6:30-10, Sat 7-4

Hamilton Farms

812/350-0272 www.flatrockprecision.com

317/281-9692 brett.jones@plantpioneer.com

B13

Farm Indiana // september 2013

FARM EVENTS

reddington rear wheelers tractor drive

3

Aug. 10 in Jennings County Reddington Rear Wheelers is an antique tractor enthusiasts club, which meets once a month and attends fairs and fundraisers throughout the summer months. Though the group is mainly based out of Bartholomew, Decatur, Jackson and Jennings counties, membership is open to anyone who enjoys antique tractors. Photos by Greg Jones

2

1

5

4

1. Zack Fox, of Reddington, on the John Deere 4020 that his grandfather, Wally Funk, purchased new.

2. A restored tractor can be a thing of beauty, as well as a prized possession.

3. The line of tractors snakes up the drive of a farm.

4. David Beesly, of North Vernon, on his 450 International Harvester.

5. Raymond Rasco, of Hayden, pulls a group of friends and family with his John Deere 60.

6

6. Gib Vogel, of Hayden, on his Oliver 88 Industrial.

7. Emily Boyd and her dad, Bill, of Butlerville, on his Farmall Super EM. 8. Tony Schafstall, of Cortland, on his John Deere 3020.

7

8

We’re Telling the stories of

Local Farmers, Farm Families & Agricultural Businesses

WE HAVE WHAT YOU NEED TO GET THE JOB DONE!

august 2013 | section a

FAMILY FARMS

Machining and balancing equipment Stock motors up to 250hp

John Glick is known around Bartholomew County as both a farmer and a friend

INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES

story By sharon mangas photos By josh marshall

R

etired farmer and former longtime resident of Hope, John Glick, 73, has a sense of humor that’s legend in the area. Country magazine named him “America’s Number One Country Character” in 1991 — thanks to a nomination submitted by his wife, Jean, 72, who has been married to him since 1959. The title went to John because of his penchant for playing practical jokes on Hope locals, neighbors and even family members.

Nephew Rory Glick, a Columbus funeral director, once farmed with John and knows his uncle well.

“Uncle John loves life, loves to be around people … and he loves to tease,” Rory says.

John and Jean Glick, with their

daughter, Kathy.

COMPLETE MOTOR REWIND AND PUMP REPAIR FACILITY FIELD SERVICE FIELD BALANCING / FIELD VIBRATION ANALYSIS

see glick on a2

Farm Indiana's monthly publication is now available online at Therepublic.com or at The republic, daily Journal, seymour Tribune and brown county democrat offices.

Farm IndIana a H o m e n e ws e n T e r P r I s e s P u b l I c aT I o n

Your town. Your community. Your media company.

333 2nd Street, Columbus | 812-372-7811 | TheRepublic.com

Belts Pulley/Sprockets Bearing/Seals Fasteners Abrasives, Cutting Tools Safety Equipment Janitorials

ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES

Lighting AC/DC Drivers Machine Controls Enclosures Testers Wire and Fittings Wiring Devices Residential Panels/Switches, Conduit

PORTION OF MANUFACTURERS

Baldor, Leeson, World Wide, Hyundai, ABB, 3M, Crouse-Hinds, Irwin, Hellermann-Tyton, Pass & Seymour, Little Fuse, Klein Tools, Lovejoy, Nachi. Contact us for a complete listing

24 Hour Emergency Service www.bh-electric.com

740 C. Ave E. Seymour, IN • 812-522-5607 1127 Miller Ave., Shelbyville, IN • 317-392-8988 4719 W Vernal Pike, Bloomington, IN • 812-333-7303

B14

Farm Indiana // september 2013

Kim Kiel

The Chemistry of Memories story By clint smith photos by Amanda waltz

Q

uietly nestled along 17th Street in Columbus is Ahlemeyer Farms Bakery, a modest shop producing baked goods that are far from bashful — scratchmade yeast breads, cinnamon and pecan rolls, candies and cookies. And in a sense, crafting cookies is where it all began for bakery manager Kim Kiel.

“I always liked to bake,” says Kiel, who discovered a love for baked goods as a young girl creating M&M cookies. But her desire to honor the chemistry of her craft resulted in an ambition to bring perfection to her confections. “I have always liked math, and baking is all about proportions. I like the challenge of getting everything to turn out correctly.”

Kiel’s involvement with Ahlemeyer Farms Bakery began over two decades ago, shortly after she relocated to Columbus. Previously, she had been living in Kokomo, where she acquired her first taste of business ownership when she purchased a small produce store from the Marsh grocery chain. “When our bananas became too ripe, we started making banana bread,” she recalls. Those first loaves of bread led to the idea to start a bakery.

“From there, the bakery took off.”

In addition to being sweet centerpieces at the home store in Columbus, Kiel’s baked goods and pastries — her specialties being fruit pies and cream pies — are featured favorites at the Columbus Farmers Market, the Columbus City Farmers Market, Bush’s Market, Hackman’s Farm Market & Greenhouse, and Nienaber’s Farm Market.

“In general, people that come to farmers markets seem to be more conscious of what they are eating and tend to support products that are locally grown and made from scratch with only a few simple ingredients,” she says.

Sugar cream pie is the biggest year-round seller; but with summer ceding to autumn, Kiel is enthusiastic about the upcoming season’s more popular baked goods — predictably, pumpkin — which sell “very well in the fall,” she says.

Also on the horizon, Kiel is eager about her daughters, Brittany and Meagan, joining her bakery team. The women will work alongside baker Amanda Melton, whom Kiel says has been a crucial asset to her shop.

The consciousness of food and place, which seems to be an inextricable connection between small independent shops, like Ahlemeyer Farms Bakery, and their faithful clientele, often carries associations with cherished memories. “I love people coming into the store and telling me about how my recipes are just like their grandmother’s,” says Kiel. “They like to reminisce and recount stories of when they were young.”

Certainly, Kiel’s baked goods and confections are providing a layered foundation for sweet memories to come.

Ahlemeyer Farms Bakery, 2034 17th St., Columbus, (812) 447-5863, (812) 372-7437, ahlemeyer.farms@gmail.com

SEND US YOUR UPCOMING AGRICULTURE EVENTS: Be sure to include a contact, the date, location and other important information.

Email info to: farmindiana@hnenewspapers.com.

Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza Kitchen & Market, 229 S. Main St., Franklin, (317) 738-3300, richardskitchen.com

2013

BEST COVERAGE IN AMERICA www.drivehubler.com www.drivehubler.com

2014

SILVERADO 2500 2WD LT CREW CAB

36,462

$

STOCK #30276

SILVERADO 3500 SRW 4WD CREW LT

39,882

$

STOCK #40009

2014

2014

SILVERADO 1500 Z71 4WD LTZ DOUBLE CAB

45,122

$

•

100,000 MI. OR 5 YR. WARR. W/24-7 ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

COMMERCIAL BLOWOUT

43,782

$

STOCK #40053

2014

2014

SILVERADO 2500 4WD LT CREW CAB

42,182

$

STOCK #40051

2013

SILVERADO 3500 4WD CREW CAB LT

49,182

$

SILVERADO 3500 4WD W/T CHASSIS RANCHER BODY

38,372

$

STOCK #31503

2013

STOCK #31763

SILVERADO 3500 SRW 4WD CREW W/T

SILVERADO 3500 2WD W/T CHASSIS 12’ PLATFORM

28,622

$

STOCK #31221

PRICES INCLUDE ALL CURRENT INCENTIVES, TAX AND TITLE EXTRA. CONTACT DEALER FOR DETAILS.

18 Minutes from I-465 I-74: Exit 116

2605 East State Road 44 Shelbyville, IN

FREE DELIVERY ANYWHERE IN INDIANA!

JOHN DEWITT 317-506-0772 jdewitt@drivehubler.com

SCOTT EMMETT 317-371-7457 semmett@drivehubler.com

TRISH AKERS 317-859-7774 takers@drivehubler.com

New! 2013

172” King Rand, 6.7L STOCK #13467

NOW

New! 2013

FORD F-350 SUPER DUTY 4WD CREW CAB

60,162

$

FORD F-350 SUPER DUTY 4WD

6.7L STOCK #13608

NOW

52,762

$

New! 2013

FORD F-350 SUPER DUTY 4WD

6.7L STOCK #13378

NOW

New! 2013

52,496

$

FORD F-350 SUPER DUTY RWD

6.2L STOCK #13630

NOW

34,322

$

New! 2013

6.2L STOCK #13396

NOW

New! 2013

FORD SUPER DUTY F-250 4WD

31,082

$

FORD F-150 4WD 5.0L STOCK #13653

NOW

34,942

$

New! 2013

New! 2013

FORD F-150 4WD 3.5L STOCK #13577

NOW

36,042

$

FORD F-150 4WD 5.0L STOCK #13585

NOW

31,722

$

*Prices include all rebates and incentives. Plus sales tax. Prices subject to change with manufacturer incentives. *See dealer for offer ending dates. *New rebates and incentives not available at time of print. Call dealer for details.

2605 East State Road 44 • Shelbyville, IN

www.drivehubler.com

www.drivehubler.com

In a large bowl, mix all ingredients thoroughly with a large spoon or flat-bladed spatula. Cover bowl and place in refrigerator to chill.

While bruschetta flavors are blending, slice baguette into large medallions. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place bread slices on a foil-lined sheet pan and lightly drizzle on olive oil. Place sheet pan in oven and toast bread until slices are golden brown and crispy. Remove from oven.

Serve toasted baguette slices with chilled bruschetta mixture and Franklin Valley Farms, garnish with fresh basil. Bruschetta 5752 E. Highway 44, Franklin, mix can be stored in an airtight (317) 459-9716 container for up to three days.

PHIL PERRY 317-372-3706 pperry@drivehubler.com

www.drivehubler.com

4 cups diced roma tomatoes or plum tomatoes ¼ cup chopped fresh basil ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons minced garlic ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

www.drivehubler.com

Provided by Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza Kitchen & Market

TRISH AKERS 317-859-7774 takers@drivehubler.com

www.drivehubler.com

Bruschetta

SCOTT EMMETT 317-371-7457 semmett@drivehubler.com

www.drivehubler.com

Often, farmers market customers convene at an off-site location, but a real treat is to visit the point of cultivation to both peruse and purchase. Chris Martz, owner and grower of Franklin Valley Farms, operates just such a market. Stationed along East Highway 44 in Franklin, Martz not only provides traditional produce and fresh herbs at his roadside stand, but meets the needs of several local restaurants, including 18 on the Square in Shelbyville and Aunt Judy’s Country Kitchen in Franklin.

But it’s been Martz’s tomatoes that have gained the attention of one grateful patron and restaurateur. Chef Richard Goss, chef-owner of Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza Kitchen & Market in Franklin, has incorporated Martz’s products into his menus. His tomatoes, says Goss, “are the best you can find around here” and are now hallmarks of the margherita pizza, caprese salad and bruschetta appetizers. “This is a great blend of tomato, basil, garlic and olive oil,” says Goss, “which we use to top our margherita pizza along with fresh mozzarella cheese. Of course it’s also terrific on slices of crusty bread.”

Here, a bruschetta recipe compliments of Goss.

JOHN DEWITT 317-506-0772 jdewitt@drivehubler.com

www.drivehubler.com

Tomatoes — whether juicy, bite-size golds or robust beefsteaks — are annual centerpieces at local farmers markets. And it’s not just the common consumers who take notice, as local restaurants continue to take advantage of the bounty of seasonal staples.

8220 US 31 South • Indianapolis, IN

100,000 MI. OR 5 YR. WARR. W/24-7 ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

story By clint smith

COMMERCIAL TRUCK SALES

STOCK #40142

www.drivehubler.com

Boys and Berry Farm, 7558 E. Road 50N, Franklin, (317) 496-1464

FINANCING ON SELECT MODELS

•

If you plan on preserving this season’s produce, particularly tomatoes, be sure to do some research. Picking a cluster of sunflowers from her field, Jody Taylor of Boys and Berry Farm provided a few tips about maintaining the quality of tomatoes. “As a home-based vendor, I strictly can tomatoes for my family,” she says.

Taylor explains that this is due to not only the strict legislation connected with selling food to the public, but also the mere profile of tomatoes. “Keep in mind that a tomato’s pH is sort of on the borderline, and you have to be very cautious about botulism,” she explains.

While Taylor — who specializes in making jams, jellies and several handcrafted products — acknowledges the stewardship of certain types of family-based recipes, she places a caveat on hand-me-down procedures. “Avoid those canned recipes from grandma, because they had different safety practices decades ago,” she says. Taylor urges novices and experts alike to obtain contemporary publications like the Ball canning guide for proper direction on canning.

So how does Taylor utilize canned tomatoes in her own home? “We do volumes of salsa — I can never seem to can enough,” she explains. And this self-made purveyor, who started off tinkering with freezer jams, is not above employing a little assistance once in a while: “I make things from scratch if it’s worth my time,” says Taylor, “but when it comes to salsa, I cheat by using Mrs. Wage’s salsa mix.”

www.drivehubler.com

A Canning Caveat

FREE DELIVERY ANYWHERE IN INDIANA

BEST COVERAGE IN AMERICA

story By clint smith

0.0%

A TRADITION of Excellence

4814 W Old State Road 46, Greensburg, IN 812-663-4020 • 800-241-4020 www.obermeyeragrigroup.com

4814 W Old State Road 46 Greensburg, IN 812-663-4020 • 800-241-4020 www.obermeyeragrigroup.com

4814 W Old State Road 46 Greensburg, IN 812-663-4020 • 800-241-4020

www.obermeyeragrigroup.com