Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I, D, WF-Sag Harbor) announced today that he, as Chair of the Assembly’s Small Business Committee, helped secure $50,000 for both the Long Island Wine Council and Long Island Farm Bureau in the Final Enacted 2015-16 State Budget for tourism promotion.

Rob Carpenter, Administrative Director of the Long Island Farm Bureau noted, “Long Island Farm Bureau appreciates the efforts of Assemblyman Thiele and his support of Long Island agriculture. The farming community still plays a major role in the economy of the East End including tourism, job creation, sales tax revenue and a way of life that is vital in keeping our rural character. The state funding will raise the awareness of the great food and products produced locally and will help ensure that our farms and vineyards continue to have a positive impact on Long Island.

Steve Bate, Executive Director of the Long Island Wine Council noted, “We are thrilled to hear about this funding and very grateful for Assemblyman Thiele’s strong support for our continuing efforts to promote agri-tourism on the East End. These resources will enable us to build on our reputation as one of the top wine destinations in the world and help generate important benefits throughout the local economy.”