President Obama addresses agriculture and jobs during Atkinson visit

     President Barack Obama addressed agriculture, jobs and economic recovery during his visit to Atkinson yesterday.  During the town hall-style meeting at the Wyffels Hybrids plant, he called on lawmakers to put "country first" and avoid ongoing political fights.  Obama said he’s optimistic about the U.S. economy.  Following his address, Obama took questions from the crowd.  Jan Lohouse of Tiskilwa asked the President about jobs.  He said many jobs could be created by rebuilding the nation's highways, bridges and schools, in addition to better using the nation's veterans.  On his way to Atkinson, the President made an unannounced stop at the Whiteside County Fair in Morrison.  He viewed a dairy cow show, spoke with fair attendees and posed for photos. Later in the afternoon Obama was joined by Governor Pat Quinn at another town hall in nearby Alpha.