Business and Agriculture

The total number of cattle and calves in Illinois on Jan. 1 was 1.07 million head, 3 percent below last year’s total. This is the lowest cattle inventory on record for Illinois. Beef cow inventory was down 6 percent from 2011 to 331,000, while milk cows were up 1 percent to 99,000. This information is based on a recent cattle survey conducted by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Illinois Field Office.
KEWANEE — The Central Illinois Farm Heritage Tractor Club is hosting a Tractor Show and FFA Olympics at the ag arena at Black Hawk College East Campus on Feb. 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event offers fun for the whole family featuring antique tractors and equipment and FFA Olympics. A food stand will be available all day.
With significant changes made to federal crop insurance, Illinois farmers will need to start planning their coverage needs in advance of the March 15 sign-up deadline.
PRINCETON — The Bureau County Farm Bureau is offering an agriculture student a chance for an internship for the summer of 2012. Duties for the position would include assistance with summer ag literacy programs, support with public relations efforts and coordination of volunteers for future programming along with other activities as they arise.
Recently, my younger daughter has done her best to have Dad enjoy some learning experiences she herself goes through on a daily basis in school. Except in this situation, I am the pupil, and she is the teacher. I have done my best to take her seriously, even though seeing her dressed in her mother’s clothes and having her correct me for referring to her by real name (instead of her actual teacher’s name) did make it difficult. Regardless, I gave it my best effort and completed the task of writing my name and the letters of the alphabet. After turning in my work for review, I received a hearty “congratulations” for doing my best and encouragement to continue practicing to ensure that my writing skills improve. Now that is what I call positiv
ROCK FALLS — For people who want to promote their business, Sena Warkins, owner of Imprintable Memories, has thousands of items available.
Food establishments in Bureau and Putnam counties were recently recognized by the Bureau/Putnam County Health Department with a 2011 Excellence in Food Safety Award.
EFFINGHAM – Richard T. Ramos and Thomas D. Shaw have been named to the Midland States Bancorp Inc. Board of Directors.
Shelley Giesen recently joined Citizens Financial Advisors as vice president and wealth advisor, according to Kim Larson, senior vice president – wealth management for Citizens Financial Advisors.
Can you tell the difference between a possum track and a raccoon track? Can you make your own rope out of natural materials? Explain the difference between a reptile and an amphibian? If not, I know some young people who may be able to help you.
PRINCETON — Aaron King has been named a vice president of 1st Farm Credit Services in the Princeton Branch.
SPRING VALLEY — Casey’s General Store is expected to open in Spring Valley Thursday.
CHICAGO — Reacting to a natural disaster or emergency not only means ensuring the immediate safety of employees, but also planning how the business will continue to function in the aftermath. Even if your business is not located in an area that is a likely target for a natural disaster, you need to be prepared for the unexpected with a comprehensive business continuation plan.  

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