If you want to know what someone is really like, listen to what their friends say about them. And consider how they say it. If it’s genuine, it will come through, in speech or in print.

It wasn’t hard to find genuine comments about 2018 Master Farmers Carl and Sally Swinford, Hillsdale, Ind. The only difficulty after poring over what others had to say was figuring out why it took so long for them to be named Master Farmers.

Other views
• Quiet support. “Carl and Sally give of themselves in so many ways. When there is a need in the community and they are made aware of it, they do everything in their power to help. The Township Trustee once told [us] that he can go to Carl and Sally about an issue and know that it will be taken care of.

“They are always supportive of local organizations when it comes to fundraisers. Whether it be a softball team requesting a hog for their yearly raffle or a church wishing to have a pulled-pork dinner, Carl and Sally are more than willing to donate and help.

“As [we] called individuals to write letters of recommendations for this award, not one person hesitated. They were all glad that Carl and Sally may be getting the recognition that they are so deserving of. Now, Carl and Sally won’t think that way. They don’t do anything for the recognition. They do what they do because they love helping others and they love being able to [do so].” — Rick and Lori Swinford, farmers, relatives and nominators

• Respected leaders. “While at Farm Credit, I had the privilege to work closely with Carl and Sally and their farming operation for approximately 20 years. It was my experience that the Swinford farming programs were very well managed, as well as an excellent representation of diversified agriculture in west-central Indiana.

“In addition to their successful farming program, the Swinfords have been and continue to be extremely supportive in many activities in Vermillion County, specifically in 4-H and soil conservation endeavors. Carl and Sally are clearly well-respected leaders in Vermillion County.” — Ken Carrington, Bainbridge, retired from Farm Credit Mid-America

• Success story. “As progressive and successful as their farming operation has been, in my opinion, just as impressive has been their willingness to serve their community. Carl and Sally started a goat herd a few years ago, and that venture turned into quite an enterprise. They supplied goats for dozens of 4-H kids as projects. I know Carl and Sally took a lot of pleasure and satisfaction from watching those kids work with their goats.

“I have been blessed on both a personal and professional level to know Carl and Sally well. They have allowed me to go along for the ride on the great American success story, and I will be forever grateful.” — Mark Durr, accounts manager, United Animal Health