Columns

By LARRY DeBOER
Purdue University

I’ve got a son in college and a daughter about to be. In the past four years, we’ve done a dozen college visits at nine different schools. It’s been a research effort lasting years; perhaps I should report some results. First a disclaimer: I work for Purdue. I’ll try to stay objective.

So here are a few of our experiences – research observations, I suppose. Start with the best, with names attached.

By MARK NEWLIN
Guest Columnist

I read the Our View editorial on the Iraq war and how it didn’t reflect our values. What disturbs me so much is the use of lies, misinformation and distortion to make our country look bad despite our efforts to do the right thing. I should put my point of view first so people know what perspective I take. I think we should bring our troops home and make our allies develop their militaries so they are capable of defending themselves. Now to look at the falsehoods presented in the editorial.

By LLOYD ARNOLD
District 74 State Representative

March is Agricultural Appreciation Month in Indiana, celebrating the prominent role that agriculture plays in our state. The cornerstone of Indiana’s economy and spirit resides in our great agricultural community.

According to the National Agriculture Statistics Service, there are 62,000 farms in Indiana with more than 14 million acres of farm land. The Hoosier state brings in around $26 billion every year to the state’s economy.

By JULIA WICKARD
Guest Columnist

I have the tremendous opportunity to work with some of the greatest employees in the federal government and we have the pleasure to serve and work for the American farmer.
On behalf of Indiana Farm Service Agency employees, we all are proud to be partners with the men and women who farm in the great state of Indiana. Agriculture is an honorable profession and we are privileged to do our part to help.

We salute you – the American Farmer – on Ag Day, Tuesday.