"There is a growing awareness of the importance of agriculture in our local area," Rogowski said. "It not only makes an aesthetic contribution to our community, but is important to maintaining our environment. Above all, local agriculture provides a secure source of fresh, wholesome food for our residents. In Orange County, agriculture is a $102.6 million industry." "I am pleased that WTBQ is providing us a forum where we can openly discuss these increasingly important topics."

The focus of the program will be agricultural issues of interest to the general public. Topics to be explored will include nutrition, food labeling, national organic standards, and agricultural education in our schools. Farm markets will also be another area for discussion, including a look at fresh food in season and ways of preparing all the variety of fresh fruits and vegetables available. Local chefs will also be on hand to discuss how they use local products in their menus.

The line-up includes locally and nationally recognized authorities. Topics will cover National Agriculture in the Classroom week; Community Supported Agriculture; Certified Organic and Certified Naturally Grown designations and what each means.

Cheryl Rogowski is the first farmer to be recognized by the MacArthur Foundation with a fellowship, often referred to as the "Genius Award." She actively heads the production of fruits, herbs and vegetables 01,} her 80 plus acre farm in Pine Island's Black Dirt region, and co-chairs the steering conunittee of the Warwick Valley Farmers' Market, among other activities.