Jim E Hughes - Country Financial

02/24/2026

I know what you’ve been wondering: What does the #1 Agency Business Owner in the Southern Region of COUNTRY Financial—ranked #1 out of 613 based on 2025 results—want as recognition?

A plaque? A gift certificate? Neither.

Instead, Steve Thomson, the top Agency Business Owner, wanted the chance to thank his Team. And I had the honor of helping him do exactly that.

We celebrated with an incredible lunch featuring pepper‑crusted beef tenderloin, smoked pork chops (I promise they were at least two inches thick), delicious sides, and of course—Steve’s favorite—cheesecake. All expertly prepared by The Smokin’ Pig, who absolutely delivered.

Congratulations to:

FA Steve Thomson
Office Manager Tracy Thompson
Associate Agent Evan Thomson

A phenomenal team, truly Enriching Lives in the Communities They Serve.

02/19/2026

This evening, we had the opportunity to host the COUNTRY Financial / Illinois Farm Bureau Ag Summit 2026. Farmers from more than ten counties joined us to hear valuable insights on today’s ag landscape.

David Widmar, Managing Partner at Ag Economic Insights, shared an excellent overview of the current farm economy and outlook.

Matthew Flanigan, Partner at Black, Ballard, McDonald PC, provided a clear and practical discussion on estate and succession planning.

Kris Kline, Manager of Financial Specialists with COUNTRY Financial, closed the program by highlighting how COUNTRY can support farmers throughout their planning process.

It was a great evening filled with strong information, hosted at an outstanding local venue—the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts in Mt. Vernon, IL.

01/17/2026

Please join me in celebrating these Wabash Valley Reps who have achieved All American for 2025!

01/03/2026

01/02/2026

12/29/2025

12/05/2025

What an exciting day for the Evansville community! 🎉 Congratulations to Victoria Ellison on the ribbon cutting for her new COUNTRY Financial office at 4900 Shamrock Dr, Suite 212, Evansville, IN. It’s always inspiring to see local businesses grow and thrive! A big thank you to the Ambassadors from Evansville Regional Economic Partnership for joining in the celebration. Here’s to supporting local success and building a stronger Evansville together!

https://agents.countryfinancial.com/usa/in/evansville/victoria-ellison

12/05/2025

The Wabash Valley District Agency Business Owners enjoyed a day at Lawman Tactical in Evansville, IN. We spent a couple of hours with the Lawman team - handgun safety, techniques and then time in the simulator and the live indoor range. We then enjoyed a lunch onsite from their 10-8 Cafe Bar & Grill. We finished the day discussing business ideas for 2026. This Team helps a lot of families, businesses and farm owners protect what they have and provide planning throughout their lives. I am thankful and blessed to lead this amazing group.

11/11/2025

Market 5 Financial Services Study Group – A Powerful Gathering!

Market 5 Area Director Brian Guenther, along with District Leaders Jamie Green, Jordan Mahon, and Jim Hughes, recently hosted an impactful Financial Services Study Group session with over 100 Financial Advisors and Insurance Agents in attendance.

We explored powerful retirement income planning strategies and reinforced how life insurance serves as a foundational element in any comprehensive financial plan. Attendees also had the opportunity to hear directly from fellow Agency Business Owners, who shared insights on building successful teams and growing thriving businesses.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to the energy and success of the event. Special thanks to Cedarhurst Center for the Arts for providing such an inspiring and welcoming venue!

08/08/2025

🌟 Rep Appreciation
This career isn’t easy — it demands time, energy, and heart. But it can also be incredibly rewarding, both personally and financially.
This year, we chose to show appreciation through three separate dinners, aiming to accommodate as many schedules as possible. And I’m excited to say: we pulled it off!

There were lots of laughs, great food, and most importantly, a chance for me to say Thank You — for everything you do.

Our results may not be exactly where we want them to be yet, but I want you to know - I am 100% proud to be the District Leader of this group.

You care deeply for your clients, you show up with heart, and I believe in the success that lies ahead for us.

Thank you for being part of this journey. — Jim

07/01/2025

33 Years ago today...... Rep, Mark Dinsmore, in Wayne City, joined the COUNTRY family! Time flies and Mark and his Service Assistant, Rachel Minor, are still helping people in Wayne County with their insurance needs. Stop by and congratulate Mark and let them give you a quote today! Congratulations, Mark!

07/01/2025

Celebrating 29 years as a COUNTRY Rep today......David Morse, in Harrisburg!!! David and his team continually strive to offer great customer service to their clients.
Making up Team Morse are: Ryan Smith-Production Asst., Whittney Durfee-Office Assistant, Crystal Koerber-Service Assistant, and Keya Pate-Production Asst. Stop by and congratulate David today!