Riverhead - The Long Island Farm Bureau honors prominent Citizens of Agriculture at an Awards Gala to be held at Martha Clara Vineyard on Saturday, July 26, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The Long Island Farm Bureau will honor Dr. Dan Damianos of Pindar Vineyards and Patrick Voges of NSLGA, both prominent figures in the agricultural community, at Long Island Farm Bureau's 91st Annual Awards Dinner.

Dr. Dan Damianos, founder of Pindar Vineyard in 1979, starting off with just 30 acres of uncultivated land and a vision of grand possibilities for his fledgling vineyard. He now oversee 600 acres in Mattituck, Cutchogue, Peconic and Southold with his three sons Alex, Jason and Pindar Damianos. The new vineyards "have the template" developed by Damianos, one of the industry's leading pioneers. His contributions to the agricultural industry are widespread.

Patrick Voges has been involved in the Long Island horticultural industry for over 40 years. He is being commended for his hands-on work with the NSLGA which has made a profound impact on the industry. The Farm Bureau commends Voges for connecting the bureau with NSLGA to realize the potential behind two strong organizations joining together to speak on behalf of Long Island's agricultural industry.

In addition, the dinner will boast a cornucopia of "Grown on Long Island" foods and wines provided by local farmers and producers. Ticket sales are open to the public and will include a wide variety of door prizes. A drawing for LIFB's Annual Raffle will be held at the close of the awards dinner. Prizes include a grand prize of $10,000 cash, a Caribbean vacation and a 42-inch flat panel TV.

For tickets, call 631-727-3777. Tickets are $75 before July 15; $85 after July 15 and at the door. Admission includes: buffet of local foods, wine, beer and soda. The Long Island Farm Bureau is a grassroots, advocacy organization dedicated to solving economic and public policy issues challenging the Long Island Agricultural community.