To help meet AGCO’s growing demand for technicians, it announced a $5 million investment for a training center at Parkland College. Graduates will have instruction for AGCO-branded equipment and technology, and achieve different levels of AGCO certification during the two-year program.   Read more

Illinois Sen. Don Harmon, an Oak Park native, has served as Senate president since January 2021, and the Democrat’s tenure in the senate dates back to 2003. FarmWeek’s Kay Shipman asked Harmon for his priorities and views. Read them in this Q and A.

General Assembly committees worked through more than 2,600 bills before Friday’s committee vote deadline. Illinois Farm Bureau state legislative staff discussed bills of interest and next steps with FarmWeek’s Kay Shipman.   Read more

But the combination of high farmland prices and rising interest rates is putting a squeeze on many young and beginning farmers. Experts discussed the latest market outlook and its impacts during the WILL Ag Outlook meeting.   Read more

FarmWeek’s Kay Shipman recently visited Helm for her series Gems of the Heartland. “Jeanne impressed me with her ability to use her artistic talent to make scenes of the family’s farm, forest and cattle come alive,” said Shipman. “I also appreciate how she shares her teaching skills and love of their centennial farm through art and tutoring.”   Read more

Kevin Daugherty, Illinois Farm Bureau’s education director, takes you on a tour of the Mannie L. Jackson Illinois Basketball Hall of Fame. Enjoy learning the history of the sport, standout players and coaches of the Fighting Illini.     Watch