I often joke when I give employees odd assignments that fall under their job description as “other duties as assigned.” However, it’s not every day they involve the U.S. military.
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Imagine this. You open your front door and see a gigantic squid wearing a sombrero and a coin changer belt. Imagine the look you’d have on your face. That’s what my face looked like...» Read more

With the diploma mounted, storage unit purchased and U-haul rented, I ventured back to Bloomington for a final visit: emptying my apartment. However, the day before that dreadfully labor-intensive morning, I met my former COUNTRY supervisor for a “business” lunch.
I recently achieved a major career milestone! I am now a fully credentialed Actuary. The official designation is “Fellow, Casualty Actuarial Society (FCAS).” It helps me in my career, for sure, but it also means something to you, the consumer. » Read More
Birthdays are a special occasion. Once a year, in the midst of family and friends, we celebrate ourselves and the lives we live. For many, these are unforgettable moments. Yet, every year, cancer steals these precious days.
(This is part IV of a series of posts about Joe’s mission to find the perfect colleges for his daughters. Check out his first, second and third posts to catch up.)
As mid-2002 came, we had plenty on our plate. Our investment accounts were sagging and we wrestled with an unexpected windfall from my in-laws’ estate.
Deductibles should be a topic familiar to each of us who has insurance. On the surface, most people think the less they have to pay out of pocket, the better. But a low deductible isn’t always the best choice.
I help out with Road Trips and Guitar Picks. Our concert series brings fans closer to multi-platinum artists Jason Aldean and Jewel by sponsoring their shows and offering a lot of cool stuff on our website. » Read More
(This is part III of a series of posts about Joe’s mission to find the perfect colleges for his daughters. Check out his first and second posts to catch up.)
The new millennium had started. The equity markets were soaring, new records were being broken daily and it appeared no matter what stocks or funds you purchased, you just couldn’t lose. » Read More
After talking to my grandma today, I remembered how deep my roots are here in Elmwood, Ill. I am a sixth generation resident. My great-great-great grandfather established a farm north of town during the Great Land Rush, and it is still being farmed today by my uncle. My 14-month-old daughter is the seventh generation to be born and raised here.



