As the aftermath of Hurricane Irene continues to unfold, the road to recovery for some states is just beginning. Millions are still without power, while others are completely cut off by the floodwaters and many lost everything during the storm. » Read More

As this summer draws to a close, we at COUNTRY had a blast at the Chicago and Portland Farmers Markets! We hosted two canvas bag design contests and Chef Challenge competitions. Along the way, we dispelled farmers market myths and discussed the impact of rising food costs on vendors and patrons. » Read More

Last month, high school students were roaming the COUNTRY halls. They weren’t seeking shade from the summertime heat. These 10 students were with the Learning and Leading program, which aims to provide high schoolers with real-world knowledge and workplace experiences. » Read More

I won $1,000! No, it wasn’t because of a lucky scratch-off or raffle. It was the grand prize of our corporate wellness program Scale Down – Lose the Pounds, a 10-week weight loss challenge meant to help employees make healthy lifestyle changes. » Read More

No matter what news channel you flip on or newspaper you open, the issue of economic woe is all-consuming. And rightfully so! » Read More

Can the sky really fall? That sounds like a question my five-year-old son might ask after a bedtime story. In reality, it’s the concern on a lot of investors’ minds these past couple weeks. » Read More

At 11:30 p.m., I turned on my computer and received a message from Lord Voldemort: “Who’s better looking…me or Harry?” Later, I got one about a job opening at a top consulting firm in Chicago. In the morning, I had a message from Barack Obama. This isn’t a dream. It’s the reality for millions of users on one of the world’s largest social networks. Welcome to Twitter! » Read More

Whether it’s gas prices or the grocery bill inching higher, rising prices are inescapable. As summer hits its stride and you plan family picnics, excursions to the grocery store and farmers market may put the hurt on your wallet. » Read More

As a wife of a COUNTRY financial representative, I’ve heard plenty of heartwarming stories. They always make me smile. With more than 2,000 COUNTRY and Cotton States reps, there are plenty of stories waiting to be shared. » Read More

How has everyone slept these past few weeks? With all this stock market turbulence, it’s hard not to get a little anxious. » Read More