Illinois State Treasurer Dan Rutherford Announces the Start of the 2nd Annual Cream of the Crop Photo Contest

SPRINGFIELD – March 25, 2014 –“If you’re a young photographer with an eye for an agricultural angle, then get your cameras ready for the Cream of the Crop Photo Contest,” said Illinois State Treasurer Dan Rutherford.

As part of the Ag Invest program, Rutherford is launching the second annual Cream of the Crop Photo Contest. He invites students across the state to submit their most innovative, scenic snapshot that depicts their vision of the agriculture in our state. The contest winners will make their mark on Illinois agriculture as they will be featured on the new marketing materials for Ag Invest and prominently displayed at the Illinois State Fair. Additionally, the top winners in each age group will receive a $100 deposit in an existing Bright Start college savings account, along with other prizes

“I am a life-long supporter of our environment and conservation. From childhood to present, I have resided in rural Livingston County and have grown up with great appreciation for Illinois agriculture,” said Rutherford. “I believe a great way to capture the beauty and scenery of Illinois is through the eyes of young people. This contest gives us an opportunity to see crops, livestock, farms and pastures through students’ pictures.”

Ag Invest is one of the nation’s largest agricultural linked deposits; it helps hundreds of Illinois farmers and agriculture professionals. The treasurer’s office, through Ag Invest, partners with eligible lenders to offer farmers both annual and long-term, low-interest loans which can be used for operating costs, equipment purchases, construction related expenses and livestock purchases.

“Last year we had more than 130 wonderful photographs submitted for the Cream of the Crop Photo Contest, and I hope this year even more young people will participate,” said Rutherford.

The treasurer’s office is now accepting electronic submissions for the Cream of the Crop Photo Contest from Illinois students, ages 8-18, and the deadline for all entries is July 9, 2014. Top photographs will be chosen in three competition categories: ages 8-10, 11-14 and 15-18. Each student is allowed to submit up to two photos for this contest. To read all the rules, terms and legal conditions associated with this contest, visit our website at www.Treasurer.Il.Gov or contact Rebecca Huston at 217-558-6217.