The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2020) recommend increasing fruits and vegetables in the U.S. diet. In summertime, you can find fresh fruits and vegetables at farmers markets, roadside stands, and grocery stores across Indiana. Use the following tips to select, prepare, and store these healthy foods.

Carrots and tomatoes

Select: Look for bright orange carrots with a smooth skin. Try picking medium-sized carrots that taper at the ends. Clip the greens as soon as you arrive home to avoid moisture loss. Tomatoes with the strongest tomato aroma will have the richest taste.  Tomatoes should also be firm with taut skin and heavy for their size. The outside should be free from bruising.

Prepare: Carrots should be thoroughly washed in cold water and scrubbed to remove oil contaminants. Peel carrots to remove outer layer, then slice as desired and serve cooked or raw. Tomatoes should be washed in cold water before use. For salads and sandwiches, slice a tomato horizontally (just lay the tomato on its side and slice down) to prevent the juice and seeds from leaking out.

Store: Store carrots in plastic bags separate from the greens and place in the refrigerator crisper. Carrots will last for a few weeks, while the greens will last only a few days. Allow tomatoes to remain at room temperature. Refrigeration will cause them to lose their flavor and become grainy.

Cantaloupe and grapes

Select: Select cantaloupes that are free from bruises and evenly shaped with no soft spots or cracks. Cantaloupes should have a light brown netting that stands out from their underlying smooth skin. If the stem is still attached, it was picked too early. Also, ripe cantaloupes will have a mildly sweet fragrance. Look for firm, plump grapes that are rich in color and firmly attached to their stem. Fully ripe grapes are soft and tender. Don’t purchase those that have brown spots or are shriveled and sticky.

Prepare: Wash the outside of the cantaloupe with running water or a wet cloth to remove any remaining dirt. Cantaloupe may be sliced as desired once the seeds are removed. Serve at room temperature or chilled. Clean grapes under a gentle spray of water, drain, and pat dry.

Store: Cantaloupes continue to ripen off the vine, so if bought ripe, eat as soon as possible. Cantaloupe can be stored in the refrigerator crisper for up to five days. Fresh grapes will be good to eat for two to three days when stored in a covered container or plastic bag in the refrigerator.

Pasta Salad (yield: 12 servings)

Ingredients: 3 c. uncooked pasta, ½ c. chopped celery, 1 chopped bell pepper, ½ c. diced carrot, ½ c. chopped broccoli, 1/3 c. mayonnaise, 1 ½ Tbs. garlic powder, and ¼ tsp. black pepper

Directions: Cook pasta according to package directions, drain and place in bowl or pan, add the rest of the ingredients and mix well, and cool in refrigerator before serving.

Source: Purdue Ed Store HHS-755-W

Visit our homepage at www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or you can contact the local Purdue Extension Office by calling 765.653.8411 for more information regarding this week’s column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee. Purdue University is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. All times listed are Eastern Time.

Upcoming Events:

Aug. 15-17 – Succession Planning Virtual Workshop Series, 11:30am-1pm, $40 per registration, register at https://cvent.me/r9yl02

Aug. 18 – Summer PARP, 9-11:30am, Fairgrounds, register at https://tinyurl.com/AugPARP23  

Aug. 23-Sept. 13 – Dining with Diabetes, Wednesday’s at 2pm, Roachdale Community Center, pre-registration required at asmith22@purdue.edu

The results are in, and the winners have been announced.

Special Awards

All Roads Lead to the Fair Exhibit Winner - Samantha Hinman

In The Beginning (Rookie Award) - Liz Davies

Overall Harris Hall Exhibitor (by points) - Vickie Whicker

Overall Harris Hall Rookie Exhibitor (by points) - Samantha Hinman

People's Choice Garden Art - Beth Connell

Ag Awards

Grand Champion Eggs - Jim Samsel

Res. Grand Champion Eggs - Samantha Hinman

Grand Champion Hay - Rian Perkins

Res. Grand Champion Hay - Rian Perkins

Grand Champion Honey - Tavia Pigg

Res. Grand Champion Honey - Terri Maher

Grand Champion Maple Product - Laura Dobson

Champion Soybeans with Most Pods - Curt Richardson

Champion Tallest Corn - Carter Ames

Res. Champion Tallest Corn - Wren Ames

Champion Largest Leaf Blade - Ryan Nees

Res. Champion Largest Leaf Blade - Becky Samsel

Champion Largest Egg - Carol Beaman

Res. Champion Largest Egg - Alicia Land

Artistic Arrangement Awards

Grand Champion Overall Arrangement - Debby Zaring

Res. Grand Champion Overall Arrangement - Becky Samsel

Champion Small Fry - Kristie Spear

Res. Champion Small Fry - Margaret Kenton

Champion In Good Taste - Judith Hacker

Res. Champion In Good Taste - Samantha Hinman

Champion Sunrise - Sunset - Debby Zaring

Res. Champion Sunrise - Sunset Margaret Kenton

Champion Eventful - Becky Samsel

Res. Champion Eventful - Vickie Whicker

Champion Hiways and Byways - Bruce Wong

Res. Champion Hiways and Byways - Liz Davies

Champion Going Native - Samantha Hinman

Res. Champion Going Native - Bruce Wong

Overall Artistic By Points - Kristie Spear

Rookie Artistic Exhibitor (by points) - Debbie Zaring

Container Gardening Awards

Grand Champion Overall Container Garden - Vickie Whicker

Res. Grand Champion Overall Container Garden - Parker Haddon

Champion Hanging - Indoor Container - Ashley Koulak

Champion Hanging - Outdoor Container - Karen Martoglio

Res. Champion Hanging - Outdoor Container - Pat Johnson

Champion Container - Indoor - Charlie Martoglio

Res. Champion Container - Indoor - Sue Matson

Champion Container - Outdoor - Parker Haddon

Res. Champion Container - Outdoor - Vickie Whicker

Champion Cactus or Succulent - Vickie Whicker

Res. Champion Cactus or Succulent - Jeanne Sibbitt

Champion Fairy Garden - Vickie Whicker

Res. Champion Fairy Garden - Gabor Dickerson

Champion Other Garden - Gabor Dickerson

Res. Champion Other Garden - Vickie Whicker

Champion Rookie Container Garden - Hannah Tharp

Single Cut Flower Awards

Grand Champion Overall Cut Flower - Jeanne Sibbitt

Res. Grand Champion Overall Cut Flower - Kevin Goad

Overall Rookie Cut Flower Exhibitor (by points) - Morgan Myers

Champion Annual - James Samsel

Res. Champion Annual - Morgan Myers

Champion Bachelor Button - Vickie Whicker

Res. Champion Bachelor Button - Liz Davies

Champion Coleus - Vickie Whicker

Res. Champion Coleus - Sue Stattner

Champion Cosmos - Samantha Hinman

Res. Champion Cosmos - Claire Winings

Champion Dahlia - Kristie Spear

Res. Champion Dahlia - Kristie Spear

Champion Daisy - Cozette McColgin

Res. Champion Daisy - Debby Zaring

Champion Daylily - Carol Thompson

Res. Champion Daylily - Paul Thompson

Champion Elephant Ear - Jeanne Sibbitt

Res. Champion Elephant Ear - Sharon Broadstreet

Champion Echinacea - Carol Thompson

Res. Champion Echinacea - Lisa Sims

Champion Fern - Becky Samsel

Res. Champion Fern - Morgan Myers

Champion Flowering Shrub - Patricia Harmon

Res. Champion Flowering Shrub - Craig Sibbitt

Champion Gladiolus - Kevin Goad

Res. Champion Gladiolus - Donna Wilson

Champion Hosta - Jeanne Sibbitt

Res. Champion Hosta - Becky Samsel

Champion Indiana Native Flowers - Vickie Whicker

Res. Champion Indiana Native Flowers Mary Lou Hazelrigg

Champion Lily - Jeanne Sibbitt

Res. Champion Lily - Willia Williamson

Champion Marigold - Becky Samsel

Res. Champion Marigold - Amber Beams

Champion Ornamental Grass - Lynn Forsgren

Res. Champion Ornamental Grass - Donna Wilson

Champion Perennial - Terri Maher

Res. Champion Perennial - Claire Winings

Champion Petunia - Jennifer Romalia

Res. Champion Petunia - Misty Hunter

Champion Phlox - Morgan Myers

Res. Champion Phlox - Carol Thompson

Champion Rookie Cut Flower - Jamie Knotts

Res. Champion Rookie Cut Flower - Morgan Myers

Champion Rose - Kristie Spear

Res. Champion Rose - Les Brown

Champion Rudbeckia - Samantha Hinman

Res. Champion Rudbeckia - Debby Zaring

Champion Specialty - Lilly Stattner

Res. Champion Specialty - Terri Maher

Champion Sunflower - Denise Sigworth

Res. Champion Sunflower - Kristie Spear

Champion Zinnia - Sharon Broadstreet

Res. Champion Zinnia - Kristie Spear

Garden Awards

Grand Champion Overall Garden - Bob Zaring

Res. Grand Champion Overall Garden - Bob Zaring

Rookie Garden Exhibitor (by points) - Maci Hodge

Champion Beans - Rosemary Hurst

Res. Champion Beans - Robert Cantonwine

Champion Cabbage - Bud Carpenter

Res. Champion Cabbage - Bob Zaring

Champion Carrot - Bud Carpenter

Champion Cucumbers - Lilly Stattner

Res. Champion Cucumbers - Robert Cantonwine

Champion Eggplant - Bob Zaring

Res. Champion Eggplant - Bud Carpenter

Champion Onions - Bud Carpenter

Res. Champion Onions - Myron Hacker

Champion Pepper - Bob Zaring

Res. Champion Pepper - Michelle Sanders

Champion Potato - Bob Zaring

Res. Champion Potato - Bob Zaring

Champion Squash - Bud Carpenter

Res. Champion Squash - Bob Zaring

Champion Tomato - Bob Zaring

Res. Champion Tomato - Bud Carpenter

Champion Rookie Garden Specimen - Maci Hodge

Champion Unlisted Variety - Bud Carpenter

Res. Champion Unlisted Variety - Maci Hodge

Champion Cabbage, Largest by Weight - Bud Carpenter

Res. Champion Cabbage, Largest by Weight - Micah Cantonwine

Champion Potato, Largest by Weight - Terri Maher

Res. Champion Potato, Largest by Weight - Dale Cantonwine

Champion Pumpkin, Largest by Weight - Alton Henry

Res. Champion Pumpkin, Largest by Weight - Mikinley Cantonwine

Champion Squash (Zucchini), Largest by Weight - Mark Klock

Res. Champion Squash (Zucchini), Largest by Weight - Morgan Myers

Champion Tomato, Largest by Weight - Bob Zaring

Res. Champion Tomato, Largest by Weight - Jeanne Sibbitt

Champion Market Exhibit - Debby Zaring

Res. Champion Market Exhibit - Morgan Myers

Herb Awards

Grand Champion Overall Herb - Becky Samsel

Res. Grand Champion Overall Herb - Terri Maher

Rookie Herb Exhibitor (by points) - Nathan Edwards

Champion Basil - Beth Connell

Res. Champion Basil - Cynthia Brown

Champion Bee Balm - Becky Samsel

Res. Champion Bee Balm - Nathan Edwards

Champion Borage - Terri Maher

Res. Champion Borage - Pat Johnson

Champion Calendula - Becky Samsel

Res. Champion Calendula - Steve Maher

Champion Chives - Tavia Pigg

Res. Champion Chives - Pat Johnson

Champion Cilantro, Coriander - Laura Dobson

Champion Dill Weed - Terri Maher

Res. Champion Dill Weed - Michelle Sanders

Champion Echinacea Purpurea - Nathan Edwards

Res. Champion Echinacea Purpurea - Jane Jackson

Champion Fennel - Vickie Whicker

Champion Fennel Weed - Vickie Whicker

Res. Champion Fennel Weed - Pat Johnson

Champion Feverfew - Pat Johnson

Res. Champion Feverfew - Jane Jackson

Champion Garlic - Sue Matson

Res. Champion Garlic - Laura Dobson

Champion Horseradish - Vickie Whicker

Champion Lavender - Beth Connell

Res. Champion Lavender - Jane Jackson

Champion Lemon Balm - Mary Ann Novak

Res. Champion Lemon Balm - Becky Samsel

Champion Mint - Vickie Whicker

Res. Champion Mint - Vickie Whicker

Champion Oregano, Common - Vickie Whicker

Res. Champion Oregano, Common - Sue Matson

Champion Parsley - Samantha Hinman

Res. Champion Parsley - Nathan Edwards

Champion Rosemary - Audrey Birchman

Res. Champion Rosemary - Sue Matson

Champion Rue - Jane Jackson

Res. Champion Rue - Pat Johnson

Champion Sage - Tavia Pigg

Res. Champion Sage - Vickie Whicker

Champion Savory - Jane Jackson

Res. Champion Savory - Vickie Whicker

Champion Tansy - Vickie Whicker

Champion Tarragon, French - Jane Jackson

Res. Champion Tarragon, French - Pat Johnson

Champion Thyme - Vickie Whicker

Res. Champion Thyme - Vickie Whicker

Champion Wormwood - Pat Johnson

Res. Champion Wormwood - Jane Jackson

Champion Rookie Herb Specimen - Debby Zaring

Res. Champion Rookie Herb Specimen - Philisha Sanders

Champion Unlisted Variety Herb - Becky Samsel

Res. Champion Unlisted Variety Herb - Jane Jackson

Champion Potted Herbs - Becky Samsel

Res. Champion Potted Herbs - Shelbe Felling

High temperatures are expected throughout much of the Indiana region in the next few days. For this reason, it is important to take precautions to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

The American Red Cross offers steps you can take to help stay safe when the temperatures soar.

• Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• If you do not have air conditioning, seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like schools, libraries, theaters, malls, etc.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities.
• Take frequent breaks and use a buddy system when working outdoors.
• Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water and shade.
   

Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If someone is experiencing heat cramps in the legs or abdomen, get them to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle, and replenish their fluids with half a glass (about 4 ounces) of cool water every 15 minutes.

Heat Exhaustion
If someone is exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion (cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heaving sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness and exhaustion), move them to a cooler place, remove or loosen tight clothing and spray the person with water or apply cool, wet clothes or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If they are conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 911.

Heat Stroke
Heat stroke usually occurs by ignoring the signals of heat exhaustion. Heat stroke develops when the body systems are overwhelmed by heat and begin to stop functioning. Signs include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting and high body temperature. Call 911 immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. Otherwise, douse or spray the person with cold water, or cover the person with cold, wet towels or bags of ice.
 

Risk Factors
Heat is the leading weather-related killer in the U.S. More than 600 people in this country die every year from heat-related illnesses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Some people are more at risk of developing a heat-related illness, including adults over 65, those with chronic medical conditions, people who work outside, infants and children, and athletes. Some may take medications that make the effects of extreme heat worse. People with heart disease, poor blood circulation, obesity and mental illness are also at risk for getting sick if the temperatures climb.

For additional extreme heat safety tips, please click here. You can also download the Red Cross Emergency App to receive full weather alerts in Spanish as well as English to track conditions with six different weather overlays. More information here.
  

After receiving $10,000 from Duke Energy to help with food distribution in Clay County, Brazil officials have decided what the next step is for the funds. 

The town received the funds to help families that lost food following storms at the end of June and will be used to supply meat for an event on Aug. 15. 

On that date, officials will distribute hamburger and hams from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Forest Park Pavillion. 

Brazil officials are spending $6,000 for hamburger and $4,000 for hams to help families and individuals who lost food, low income families and senior citizens. 

Those attending must have identification and proof of residency. 

For more information, contact City Hall at 812-443-2221. 

Get the most recent Putnam County Post headlines delivered to your email. Go to putnamcountypost.com and click on the free daily email signup link at the top of the page.

Recent storms brought a lot of focus on staying away from downed powerlines. However, every day, drivers are traversing roads with power lines on either or both sides of the road. There are tens of thousands of vehicular accidents involving utility poles each year. When an accident occurs sometimes one may not even know whether a utility pole was struck or if someone else struck a pole and as result wires fall onto your car. The best thing to do when one is in an accident is to stay in the car until either you or someone outside the car can verify that no powerlines are touching or on the car. Also yell to others approaching your car to stay away until there is verification that no power lines are touching the car or that they have been deenergized. Why is this important?

Electricity is constantly seeking a path to ground. It is somewhat analogous to water that seeks to follow gravity by moving downhill. If you are in that path to the ground, you will be electrocuted. As long as you stay in the car with powerlines touching the car, you are similar to a bird sitting on a powerline. The only time to get out to the car is if the car catches on fire which only happens about two percent of the time. If in a fire situation, jump out of the car keeping both feet together and bunny hop, still keeping both feet together away from the blazing car. How far away varies as moisture in cracks and other factors play a role. Basically, hop to a safe distance away from the fire and keep your feet together until the all clear that the power lines on the car are not electrified. Keeping both feet together helps to keep you at the same potential should there be electricity traveling through the ground in a crack or through moisture otherwise.

Talk about this as a family with your teen drivers. There are many examples of where discussing this information has saved lives. It really does matter how one responds following an accident. Who knows how one will respond given shock or consciousness? But for those who are cognizant of the surroundings, this information may save your life or another person’s life that is in the situation.

Visit our homepage at www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or you can contact the local office by calling 765.653.8411 for more information regarding this week’s column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. Office hours are Monday thru Friday from 8:00am-12:00pm and 1:00pm-4:00pm. Evening and lunch appointments are available, upon request. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee. All times listed are Eastern Time. Purdue University is an equal access/equal opportunity/affirmative action institution.

Upcoming Events

Aug. 2 – Last day to apply for Master Gardener Course, contact 765-653-8411 to apply

Aug. 15, 16, 17 – Succession Planning Virtual Workshop Series, 11:30 am – 1pm, $40 per registration, register at https://cvent.me/r9yl02

Aug. 18 – Summer PARP, 9:00-11:30am, Fairgrounds, register at https://tinyurl.com/AugPARP23

Aug 23-Sept 13 – Dining with Diabetes, Wednesday’s at 2pm, Roachdale Community Center, pre-registration required at asmith22@purdue.edu

With a desire to make its program more impactful, the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce is embarking on its Women in Business and are asking all women entrepreneurs and professionals to get involved. 

"Our Women in Business program is a crucial initiative by the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, creating a supportive and inclusive environment for our local business community. It's all about providing a safe space for resources, discussions, and building a strong sense of community," Putnam County Chamber Executive Director Madison Hanna told The Putnam County Post. 

Hanna said the mission is simple -- to empower and support women in their business endeavors through networking, knowledge sharing and mentoring opportunities. 
"Highlighting and promoting Women in Business is a top priority for us. Embracing diversity and inclusivity makes for a dynamic business environment. Together, we can be a catalyst for positive change. Let's champion Women in Business and work together for cooperation and equity," Hanna said. 

The Chamber is currently seeking input and have a survey they are asking people to fill out at https://forms.gle/UsRKxSKwSkRY7un17. 

According to Hanna, the first meeting is set for Aug. 29 with quarterly meetings to follow. 

For more information, call the Chamber at 765-653-4517.

Get the most recent Putnam County Post headlines delivered to your email. Go to putnamcountypost.com and click on the free daily email signup link at the top of the page.

The Indiana State Police Capitol Police Section is accepting applications. Individuals interested in beginning a career as a Capitol Police Officer may apply online at https://www.Capitol Police Career Opportunities.

This website provides a detailed synopsis of the application process and information on additional career opportunities with the Indiana State Police Department.

Applications must be submitted electronically by 11:59 pm (EST) on Wednesday, August 9, 2023.

Basic Eligibility Requirements and consideration factors for a Capitol Police Officer:

1. Must be a United States citizen.

2. Must be at least 21 years of age when appointed as a police employee.(Graduation date is December 15, 2023)

3. Must meet a minimum vision standard (corrected or uncorrected) of 20/50 acuity in each eye and 20/50 distant binocular acuity in both eyes.

4. Must possess a valid driver's license to operate an automobile.

5. Must be a high school graduate as evidenced by a diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED).

The academy begins on Monday, October 23, 2023. The starting salary for a Capitol Police Probationary Officer is $62,327 a year. After the first year of employment, the salary will increase to $64,472.00. The Indiana State Police Capitol Police Section also offers an excellent health care plan, including medical, dental, vision, and pharmacy coverage for current and retired employees and their families. The State maintains short-term and long-term disability plans for full time employees after six (6) months of continuous employment. As an Indiana State Police Capitol Police Officer, you are automatically enrolled in the Public Employees Retirement Fund (PERF), and the State will contribute to your retirement account.

Interested applicants can obtain additional information about a career as a Capitol Police Officer by visiting https://www.Capitol Police Career Opportunities. Applicants can also contact a recruiter at isprecruiting@isp.in.gov .

Get the most recent Putnam County Post headlines delivered to your email. Go to putnamcountypost.com and click on the free daily email signup link at the top of the page.

The Indiana State Fair returns in just 9 days and there are many ways to save on your State Fair experience.

The State Fair offers deals and discounts throughout the 18-day Fair, including 100+ free things to do at the State Fair, opening Friday, July 28 through Sunday, August 20.

Fairgoers are encouraged to buy tickets early to save up to 34%. Tickets are currently available to purchase online at www.IndianaStateFair.com. All advance discounts end Thursday, July 27 at 11:59pm ET.

Additional Advance Admission Discounts - the following discounts are available now at IndianaStateFair.com: 

• Advance Discount Fair Admission Tickets. $11 advance discount State Fair Tickets are available through July 27 at 11:59PM ET - SAVE 29% off gate admission
• Advance Discount Fair Parking Pass. $8 discount State Fair parking is available through July 27 at 11:59PM ET - 20% savings
• Advance Discount Midway Wristbands. $25 midway wristbands available through July 30 at 11:59PM ET - 35% savings
• Advance Discount Family 4-Pack. Includes 1 parking pass and 4 admission tickets to the 2023 Indiana State Fair. Available now through July 27 at 11:59PM ET - 34% savings

Daily Gate Discounts - discounts listed available on select days: 

• BMV Discount Day, Wednesday, August 2. $7.00 gate admission with printed or digital voucher from IN.GOV/BMV (50% savings on admission)
• $3 Thursdays presented by the Indiana Secretary of State, Thursday, August 3, 10, and 17. $3 admission, $3 Midway Rides, and $3 food options at each food stand
• Free IndyStar Ticket Day, Wednesday, August 9. Grab a copy of the IndyStar on Thursday, August 3rd for a FREE admission ticket to the Fair - valid ONLY at the State Fair on Wednesday, August 9 for FREE admission
• AAA Day, Wednesday August 16. AAA Cardholders receive FREE State Fair admission with a valid AAA membership card presented at the gate. One valid card per person.
• Military & First Responders’ Day presented by Peterman Brothers, Friday August 18. First responders, current and former Military, and their families receive FREE admission with valid ID presented at the gate.

Additional Daily Deals & Value:

• 100 Free Things to do at the State Fair!
  https://www.indianastatefair.com/p/state-fair/general-information/100-free-things-to-do
• Free Tractor Shuttle Rides. Travel around the fairgrounds for FREE this year on the tractor shuttles
• Free Entertainment and Activities at Every Turn. Visit IndianaStateFair.com to view the Top 100 Free Things to Do DAILY at the 2023 Indiana State Fair
• Free Entertainment Every Day at The Hoosier Lottery Free Stage. Visit IndianaStateFair.com to see the full Hoosier Lottery Free Stage line up - All Concerts are FREE with paid fair admission
• Pedal and Park. Save $1.00 off Fair admission when you ride your bicycle to the Fair and use one of the free secured bike racks on the Monon Trail north of 38th St.

The Indiana State Fair will be closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Get the most recent Putnam County Post headlines delivered to your email. Go to putnamcountypost.com and click on the free daily email signup link at the top of the page.

Purdue Extension Master Gardeners (EMG) receive training in horticulture to equip them to volunteer to assist Purdue Extension with home horticulture education in local communities.  The requirements for Purdue EMG certification include acceptance into the training through an application and screening process, payment of registration fee, completion of the EMG Basic Training which includes passing the open-book final exam with a score of 70% or higher, and contributing at least 40 hours of volunteer service approved by the local EMG County Coordinator within two years. Purdue Extension Master Gardeners are also required to complete at least 12 volunteer and 6 continuing education hours every year in order to stay active. 

During the course, participants will learn about plant diseases, pesticide safety, invasive species, soils, weed identification, insect identification, fruit gardening, lawn care, vegetable production, and most more. Presenters include Purdue Extension Educators and Specialist from throughout Indiana.

We will be offering the Purdue Extension Master Gardener Basic Training in Putnam County from August 14 to November 30, 2023 (no class September 4, 2023). The course will be held on Mondays, from 1:00-4:00 pm at the Purdue Extension – Putnam County Office (physical address: 152 E. Columbia St., Greencastle, IN).

Application and Registration Information

Please read the Purdue Extension Master Gardener Program Policy Guide and complete, sign, and return the Purdue Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Application and Agreement (Form EMG-1) to the Putnam County Extension Office. All applicants are also required to consent to national and state sex and violent offender registry checks and provide evidence of a government issued photo ID to your local EMG County Coordinator or designated Purdue Extension staff. You may download the policy guide here: http://tinyurl.com/MGstateguide or contact Jenna Nees at smith535@purdue.edu or 765-653-8411 to receive a copy.

Please note that during the Putnam County 4-H Fair (July 21^st – 28^th), no one will be at the Purdue Extension Office. You can find Jenna Nees inside Harris Hall at the Putnam County 4-H Fair. She will gladly discuss the Purdue Extension Master Gardener course with you or help you complete the application process there.

Form EMG-1 & Government Issued Photo ID Due by August 2, 2023.

Upon confirmation of acceptance of your application and providing evidence of government issued photo ID, an online registration link will be sent to you. The registration options are listed below:

• $200.00 for an individual registration with print version of Purdue EMG Manual.
• $300.00 for two people sharing a print version of the Purdue EMG Manual. (Sharing option works best for two people living in the same household.)

Purdue is committed to making all programs accessible to participants. If you require auxiliary aids or services, or if you have other program-related concerns, please contact Jenna Nees at smith535@purdue.edu or 765-653-8411 at least 2 weeks prior to the program.

Visit our homepage at www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or you can contact the local Purdue Extension Office by calling 765.653.8411 for more information regarding this week’s column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee. Purdue University is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. All times listed are Eastern Time.

Upcoming Events:

July 21-28 – Putnam County 4-H Fair, Fairgrounds

July 24 – Book to Barn, 11am or 3pm, Fairgrounds, ages 3-5, pre-registration required at 765-653-8411

July 26 & 27 – FAIRS Care Indiana State Fair tickets available for an $8.00 donation, 10am-8pm, Fairgrounds

Aug. 2 – Last day to apply for Master Gardener Course, contact 765-653-8411 to apply

Aug. 15, 16, 17 – Succession Planning Virtual Workshop Series, 11:30 am – 1pm, $40 per registration, register at https://cvent.me/r9yl02

Aug. 18 – Summer PARP, 9:00-11:30am, Fairgrounds, register at https://tinyurl.com/AugPARP23

Aug 23-Sept 13 – Dining with Diabetes, Wednesday’s at 2pm, Roachdale Community Center, pre-registration required at asmith22@purdue.edu

A campaign aimed at offering back to school items for Putnam County children is already underway and the deadline to register is rapidly approaching.

The Tools for School initiative began earlier this month and families have until July 17 to register at philtheneed.net to secure items. Once at the website, click on the Tools for School button to register. 

Each child will receive a new backpack with supplies needed for their grade level as well as a pair of shoes. In addition, there will be clothing and sandals available until the final day of the program.

Phil the Need Inc. is a 501c3 organization that is free and aims to help resident and homeless disadvantaged people of all ages across Putnam County with the help of other agencies. 

For more information on the program or Phil the Need, email philtheneed419@gmail.com or call 765-720-1739. 

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The Indiana Department of Transportation announces new, ongoing restrictions on State Road 240, heading east out of Greencastle.

Crews will be milling and paving portions of S.R. 240, between U.S. 231 and County Road 475. Traffic will be controlled by a flagging operation and/or will be moved to the road shoulders as needed.

The restrictions are expected to last through early October, weather permitting.

This contract was awarded to Calumet Civil Contractors, Inc. for over $4.4 million. It involves pavement restoration and an HMA Overlay.

The entire contract is expected to be completed in October of 2024, weather permitting.

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Do you have type 2 diabetes? Would you like to learn more about your disease and how to live well reducing your health risks? If so, Purdue Extension has a great program for you!

The Purdue Extension-Putnam County office will be offering Dining with Diabetes sessions beginning Wednesday, August 23^rd at 2:00pm at the Roachdale Community Center. Dining with Diabetes is a series of four sessions (August 23, August 30, September 6, September 13). The Dining with Diabetes program is open to those with diabetes, their family members and caretakers. The series of four sessions is FREE this year thanks for a grant from THRIVE West Central. Pre-registration is required.  Participants are encouraged to attend all class sessions.

The educational programs and cooking school will help adults with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar to feel better and reduce risk of health complications. You will learn how to prepare meals that are healthy, easy to prepare and taste good. Recipes will be demonstrated, and participants will have the opportunity to taste each one. Participants will also learn up-to-date information on nutrition, meal planning, exercise and how to understand common diabetes-related medical tests. Recipe and handouts will be given to each participant.

Diabetes is a very serious and costly disease, but research has shown that those who learn to manage their blood glucose (sugar) levels eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly can lower their risks of complications and lead a healthier and more productive life.

Purdue Extension-Putnam County is currently recruiting participants for this program. If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, or know someone and are part of the support system for an individual and are interested in being a part of this program, please call Abbi Smith at the Purdue Extension office at 765-653-8411 or email her at asmith22@purdue.edu. Space is limited! Dining with Diabetes is offered statewide and is sponsored by Purdue Extension.

Visit our homepage at www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or you can contact the local Purdue Extension Office by calling 765.653.8411 for more information regarding this week’s column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee. Purdue University is an equal access/equal opportunity institution. All times listed are Eastern Time.

Upcoming Events:

July 15 – Firearms Shooting 4-H Competition, 8:30 am, Cloverdale Conservation Club

July 16 – Dog Obedience 4-H Show, noon, Fairgrounds

July 16 – Putnam 4-H Fair Parade

July 21-28 – Putnam County 4-H Fair, Fairgrounds

July 24 – Book to Barn, 11am or 3pm, Fairgrounds, ages 3-5, pre-registration required at 765-653-8411

July 26 & 27 – FAIRS Care Indiana State Fair tickets available for an $8.00 donation, 10am-8pm, Fairgrounds

Aug. 2 – Last day to apply for Master Gardener Course, contact 765-653-8411 to apply

Aug 23-Sept 13 – Dining with Diabetes, Wednesday’s at 2pm, Roachdale Community Center, pre-registration required at asmith22@purdue.edu

Share your thoughts on Putnam County’s assets and needs in a short online survey to help the Putnam County Community Foundation generate collaborative, sustainable solutions to make Putnam County a better place to live, work and play.

Your feedback is anonymous. Demographic information collected through the survey is used to ensure that survey results align with US Census data.

PLUS, once you complete the survey, you can enter to win a prize drawing for some great prizes including a 4-pack of Indianapolis Colts tickets courtesy of our Community Partners at Hendricks Regional Health!
Learn more at pcfoundation.org/communityneedsassessment .

Get the most recent Putnam County Post headlines delivered to your email. Go to putnamcountypost.com and click on the free daily email signup link at the top of the page.

Motorists using U.S. 231 near Cloverdale will have to find a new way to navigate around as the Indiana Department of Transportation will restrict traffic on the highway on or after Monday, July 10, near Cloverdale.

The restrictions will last through the beginning of November and are dependant upon the weather. 

The restrictions are needed for the installation of a box culvert approximately 1.45 miles south of State Road 32 and involves a bridge project over Doe Creek. 

White Construction, LLC has been tasked with the project, which comes with a price tag of about $3.5 million.

Get the most recent Putnam County Post headlines delivered to your email. Go to putnamcountypost.com and click on the free daily email signup link at the top of the page.

Indiana is very blessed to have overall an excellent working relationship between FFA ag science programs and 4-H youth development programs. While both offer different programs and vary in delivery, the career development events are very much shared events for youth in both organizations to develop career and life skills. Ag science in the middle school and high schools is rooted to the Smith-Hughes Act passed in 1917 while 4-H via Extension programs at land grant universities has its roots in the Smith-Lever Act of 1914. Extension via 4-H youth programming work with schools using a variety methods. Sometimes this is with ag science instructors and other programs as well.

During April the Cloverdale KNOY After School program and more recently the Gobin Summer Enrichment program partnered with Purdue Extension Putnam County to offer the 4-H Chef University program. The youth gained knowledge in preparing food safely with proper sanitation, kitchen practices and also with the experience of cooking six different recipes for classroom sampling. Skills like reading and following a recipe, finding materials and tools to prepare items, international connections of food, and healthy nutrition on a budget were additional items presented to more than 30 students.

Last winter and through June, investment programming reaching more than 250 students via South Putnam High School, Greencastle Middle School, and Cloverdale High School students occurred where students were given a virtual portfolio to manage with additional funds earned each week using an online program made available by the Indiana Council for Economic Education. Thanks to Leah Henry, SPHS, Brittany Labhart GMS business teacher and Karl Turk, CHS for allowing this partnership to occur where between December and mid-May, various investment topics were presented and students shared trading experiences or thoughts about the market. An additional virtual program state-wide occurred where 4-H Educators from Madison and Jay counties helped out as well.

Extension staff conduct numerous programs at county schools and are very involved with youth education throughout the year. Nature of Teaching and Captain Cash are two other examples where the ag natural resources educator and health and human science Extension educators and county Extension education coordinator teach in classrooms and afterschool events. School admin, teachers and home school groups are welcomed to contact Extension staff to begin planning for the next school year and schedule programs for the next school year. Teachers and educators can request or be on the lookout for our semi-annual newsletter to schools describing our program offerings for the fall and spring semesters.

Visit our homepage at www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or you can contact the local office by calling 765.653.8411 for more information regarding this week’s column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. Office hours are Monday thru Friday from 8:00am-12:00pm and 1:00pm-4:00pm. Evening and lunch appointments are available, upon request. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee. All times listed are Eastern Time. Purdue University is an equal access/equal opportunity/affirmative action institution.

Upcoming Events

July 4 – Extension Office Closed for Independence Day Holiday

July 10 – Rescheduled Public Speaking & Summer Judging Contest, 5:30-8 pm, York Bldg. Fairgrounds

July 6 – Tractor Driving 4-H Contest, Fairgrounds

July 8 – Archery 4-H Shooting Competition, Fairgrounds

July 15 – Firearms Shooting 4-H Competition, 8:30 am, Cloverdale Conservation Club

July 16 – Dog Obedience 4-H Show, noon, Fairgounds

July 16 – Putnam 4-H Fair Parade

July 21-28 – Putnam County 4-H Fair, Fairgrounds

Aug. 2 – Last day to apply for Master Gardener Course, contact 765-653-8411 to apply