| 
			
			 “Illinois continues to be a leader in farming and strives for 
			agricultural diversity,” Frerichs said. “This contest gives students 
			an opportunity to capture the beauty of our state and showcase the 
			importance of agriculture in Illinois.” 
 The treasurer’s office is accepting electronic submissions for the 
			Cream of the Crop Photo Contest from Illinois students, ages 8-18. 
			Top photographs will be chosen in three age-based categories: ages 
			8-10, 11-14 and 15-18. Each student is allowed to submit up to two 
			photos by June 27, 2017.
 
 The photo contest is part of the Ag Invest program and offers an 
			opportunity for Illinois students to submit their most innovative or 
			scenic picture that depicts their vision of agriculture in our 
			state. Winning photos will be featured in Ag Invest marketing 
			materials and on display at the 2017 Illinois State Fair.
 
			
			 
			Ag Invest is one of the nation’s largest agricultural linked deposit 
			programs. It helps hundreds of Illinois farmers and agriculture 
			professionals. The treasurer’s office, through Ag Invest, partners 
			with eligible lenders to offer farmers annual and long-term, 
			low-interest loans which can be used for operating costs, equipment 
			purchases, processing, milling, transitioning, livestock purchases 
			and other costs. 
 To read all of the rules, terms, and legal conditions associated 
			with this contest, visit our website at
			www.illinoistreasurer.gov 
			or contact Rebecca Huston at 217.558.6217.
 
			
            [to top of second column] | 
            
			 
				 
				 
				 
About the Illinois TreasurerThe Illinois Treasurer is the state’s chief investment officer and Frerichs is a 
Certified Public Finance Officer. He protects consumers by encouraging savings 
plans for college or trade school, increasing financial education among all 
ages, and removing barriers to a secure retirement. As the state’s Chief 
Investment Officer, he actively manages approximately $25 billion. The portfolio 
includes $13 billion in state funds, $7 billion in college savings plans and $5 
billion on behalf of local and state governments. The investment approach is 
cautious to ensure the preservation of capital and returns $28 to the state for 
every $1 spent in operations. The Treasurer’s Office predates Illinois 
incorporation in 1818. Voters in 1848 chose to make it an elected office
 
				 
			[Office of Illinois Treasurer Michael 
			Frerichs] 
			
			 |