The Chicago Farmers Markets kicked off on Daley Plaza Thursday, May 12 on a sustainable note. David Lopez received a $1,000 scholarship from COUNTRY Financial as winner of the fourth annual Chicago Farmers Markets Reusable Bag Design Contest in conjunction with the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE). Lopez is a senior at Steinmetz Academic Centre. His illustration of this year’s theme, “Fresh is in Season,” features seasonal fruits and vegetables bursting out of an open world globe along with prominent features of the Chicago skyline. COUNTRY has been the presenting sponsor for the Chicago Farmers Markets since 2008 and has extended its sponsorship through 2013. COUNTRY has distributed more than $7,000 in scholarships to Chicago Public School students involved in the bag design contest. Shoppers can pick up this year’s reusable canvas bags at various downtown and neighborhood markets throughout the season.