The reference to chestnuts, let alone roasted ones, will trigger few remembrances even though Chestnut trees once dominated Eastern forests comprising as much as half the hardwood in those woodlands.

Unlike reports of a Christmas tree shortage, the Real Christmas Tree Board, which is the checkoff for Christmas tree farmers, says growers from across the country have been able to meet the increasing demand.

Grains finish mostly lower Thursday with profit taking, slow exports and negativity in outside macro markets. What will be the focus for markets to end the year? Tommy Grisafi of Advance Trading provides insight.

In 2012, Jerry Lageson flipped the switch and transformed an oak tree into a landmark for thousands of passersby. South of Faribault, Minn., Lageson annually adorns this tree with 50,000 white lights.

Grains lower except HRW wheat with profit taking, disappointing exports and GDP news pulling down futures. Cattle mixed, with hogs higher ahead of reports. Mike Zuzulo of Global Commodity Analytics has analysis.

It’s hard for grain farmers to gift their harvest bounty but a Nebraska company is helping change that and providing a way to share some Christmas spirits.