BUSINESS MEMO: 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Kirlin's Inc., operater of Kirlin's Hallmark and Marian's Hallmark stores, is celebrating a hallmark year.

The company has opened its 100th store and is observing its 50th anniversary.

Kirlin has become Hallmark's largest independent distributor in the United States, operating 100 stores in 10 Midwestern states, including Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee and Missouri.

Kirlin's local store is Kirlin's Hallmark, 134 West Park Mall.

Dale Kirlin Sr. opened the first store, "Andes Candies," in downtown Quincy, Ill., March 10, 1948. The company is still headquartered in Quincy.

Kirlin's is a family operation. The present Kirlin team is headed by Dale Kirlin Jr., chairman, and Gary Kirlin, company president. The third generation of Kirlin's -- Brad Kirlin, son of Dale Kirlin Jr. -- has joined the company and serves as a district manager.