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Woman’s agriculture group to launch Suffolk chapter Wednesday

A nationwide agricultural networking organization for women is launching a Suffolk County chapter this week.

American Agri-Women was founded in 1974, but the New York affiliate of the organization was just founded last year by Cari Rincker, a food and agriculture attorney who lives in New York City.

The newly formed Suffolk County chapter will be the sixth regional chapter in the state. A celebration luncheon will be held at Laurel Lake Vineyards in Laurel on Wednesday.

“Suffolk County is one of the biggest agricultural areas in New York State,” said Ulla Kjarval, a member of the state organization who is helping to launch the Suffolk County Chapter.

Suffolk County brings in the most agricultural revenue of any county in the state, producing $243 million worth of agricultural commodities in 2007.

“Agri-Women is a networking group for women to come together,” said Ms. Kjarval. “In New York, marketing is very important. Women are very good at the marketing ends of things. It’s important for women to put a feminine face on agriculture and farmer’s wives are usually a big part of the farm.”

Ms. Rincker will be on-hand at Wednesday’s luncheon to discuss the organization’s mission with new members.

The event, which is catered by La Bonne Quiche with wine from Laurel Lake Vineyards, costs $25. To register, or for more information, email Vicki Gruber at [email protected].

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