The Illinois Soybean Board (ISB) is looking for farmers interested in filling two of Illinois’ director positions with the United Soybean Board (USB). Any soybean producer who is engaged in the growing of soybeans in the United States who owns, or who shares the ownership and risk of loss of, is eligible. To be considered for the national leadership position, farmers must complete the required application and “Agreement to Serve” statement and return them to the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) office by Friday, March 7, 2025. Contact Dustin Scott, ISA Director of Operations, at 309-846-3673 or dustin.scott@ilsoy.org to receive a copy of the application and agreement to serve.

The Lord of the Hollow Sycamore Tree

by Janet Roney

…Now, I’m not saying someone couldn’t live inside a hollow sycamore tree. I’m not doubting the old Bond County history that tells all about “Old Kenson” or “Old Henson”, the hermit who spent most of the War of 1812 holed up in one while the rest of the settlers cowered behind the walls of Hill’s Fort or high-tailed it back to Kentucky. Old Kenson/Henson was clever. Each time he left the tree to hunt for food, or whatever, he returned by a different route so the Indians couldn’t track him.  

2015

In January, Okaw Valley’s administration released details on their participation in a new initiative aimed at reviving manufacturing in east central Illinois that, at the same time, promised to revitalize how individuals become proficient in trades before entering the workforce. The initiative, being called the Student Learner Program, places students with novice level experience in specific trades, gained through their time at Okaw Valley, into paid internships at local businesses that encompass the trade in which they are interested.