Commentary by Larry Lannan
Fourteen years ago, Jim Herr moved from northern Indiana to work for Beck’s Hybrids in northern Hamilton County. Jim is still a farmer and active in the local county Farm Bureau as a board member.
It all started when Jim’s daughter was at the Hamilton County 4-H Fair. He grew to know people active in the Farm Bureau and before he knew it, he was active in the organization.
Now through Saturday has been designated as Food Check-Out Week by the American Farm Bureau, and Hamilton County is celebrating the event in two important ways.
First, farmers are encouraging consumers to recognize the price and nutritional value of fresh fruits and vegetables. Herr says consumers should look at more than the brand name on the supermarket label, but be more aware of how ”the farm down the road” provides a regular supply of fresh, healthy food.
“Take the time to prepare your food sensibly, and buy your food sensibly,” Herr said.
The second component of Food Check-Out Week is a food drive. There will be drop-off locations for non-perishable food donations in Fishers at Hamilton Southeastern High School and Reynolds Farm Equipment Inc.
All food donations will help supply the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank. The food bank distributes the donations to food pantries throughout Hamilton County.
Jim Herr is a big believer in volunteering your time and effort in the local community. If you have thought about becoming a volunteer yourself, Jim has some advice.
“Think about what you like,” he said. “I’ve always tried to give back to those who have given to me.”
He recommends looking at the Hamilton County Legacy Fund as a great source for volunteering in Hamilton County.