Warwick Valley Farm Aid on Sept. 25 aims to raise 25K for local farmers

Warwick — On Sunday, Sept. 25, from 1 to 9 p.m. at Warwick Valley High School, a community event called Warwick Valley Farm Aid 2011 will be held to raise funds to assist local farmers affected by Hurricane Irene. Town Supervisor Michael Sweeton estimated that agricultural production in Warwick is about $35 million, with about $25 million coming from the Black Dirt region. "i suspect that due to the time of this storm (coming so close to harvest),"Sweeton wrote in an e-mail exchange, "that the loss will be close to that number." The goal of Warwick Valley Farm Aid 2011 is to raise $25,000 to provide immediate relief to local farmers in need. Plans include: Open House from 1 to 4 p.m. There will be an open house and family entertainment, including storytellers, clowns, musicians and food. Participants will have an opportunity at that time to make donations, sign up for a silent auction and purchase food items provided by local restaurants. Silent auction items will include the work of local artists. Concert from 4 to 9 p.m. A concert featuring popular Hudson Valley bands will take place in the high school auditorium. Tickets will be $25 each and sale locations will be announced shortly. The concert will feature performances by E’lissa Jones, Nuts in a Blender, Some Guys and a Broad, Tangent and more. All proceeds will go directly to local farmers. Local radio station WTBQ 1110 AM and 93.5 FM will also broadcast the concert live. Find out more You can follow Warwick Farm Aid 2011 on Facebook. Check the Facebook page often for the most up-to-date information, including where to purchase tickets and commemorative, custom designed T-shirts. The Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce also has set up a page on its web site where you can find more information and where donations can be made: http://directory.warwickcc.org/Events/details/warwick-farm-aid-2011.