April 23 is the deadline to nominate a farm mom for the national title and $10,000 grand prize
ST. LOUIS (April 12, 2012) – Monsanto’s search for the next America’s Farmers Mom of the Year is winding down, but there’s still time to nominate your favorite farm mom for the national title and up to $10,000 in prize money. Nominations will be accepted through April 23 at www.AmericasFarmers.com.
For its third year, Monsanto will again partner with American Agri-Women to spearhead the judging process. Each of five regional winners will receive $5,000 and will be featured on AmericasFarmers.com from May 1–12, where online voting will determine the national winner. The new America’s Farmers Mom of the Year will be announced on the site on Mother’s Day, May 13, and she will receive an additional $5,000.
“From the outpouring of entries we’ve received thus far, it’s clear that farm moms are loved and appreciated by their families, students, neighbors and friends,” says Consuelo Madere, America’s Farmers spokesperson. “I encourage everyone whose life has been impacted by a farm mom to visit AmericasFarmers.com and nominate her before the contest ends this month. It’s one small way to say ‘thank you’ and ‘Happy Mother’s Day’ to that extra-special farm mom.”
April Hemmes, America’s Farmers Mom of the Year 2011 for the Midwest Region, feels the contest is a great opportunity to recognize women in the male-dominated farming industry. “I think this effort really brings awareness to farm women, who are often under-recognized,” she says. “This contest is a great way to tell her you love her and she’s doing a great job.’”
Bette Lu Lerwick, America’s Farmers Mom of the Year 2011 national winner, recalls the day she received the call telling her she had won. “I was very surprised, and a little astounded, to be honored for the things I do just living my life, here on the farm in my little Wyoming community,” she says. “I’m so glad that Monsanto is recognizing this very real, very necessary side of farming.”
Anyone can submit a nomination by visiting AmericasFarmers.com and explaining how their favorite farm mom contributes to her family, farm, community and the agricultural industry. Complete eligibility requirements and official rules can be obtained on the website or by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to America’s Farmers Mom of the Year, 914 Spruce Street, St. Louis, MO 63102. The nomination deadline is Monday, April 23.
America’s Farmers Mom of the Year is an element of Monsanto’s America’s Farmers Grow America program, an advocacy effort promoting, recognizing and supporting U.S. farmers through communications, awards and special programs that highlight the importance of agriculture.
