Bush family honored as Farm Family of the Year

In a full circle moment, Bruce and Vickie Bush, names synonymous with farming in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, was honored as the Farm Family of the year, 25 years after he brought the idea to life.

“His compassion for protecting the farm community is unmatched. Bruce made it clear to the farmers that he was a farmer’s advocate and a true champion,” said John Harkey, President of the Alaska State Fair Board of Directors at the Farm Family reception.

“His family’s devotion and longevity, in my opinion, is likely unparalleled. Their devotion to the farming industry is admirable and this recognition is long overdue.” Harkey served with Bruce Bush on the Fair Board and worked with him when Bush brought the idea of recognizing Farm Families each year at the Alaska State Fair.

“This reception is the proper place for the Farm Family of the Year. We at the Division of Agriculture are pleased to be a part of making this award a success,” said Division of Agriculture Director Bryan Scoresby. “This year’s award to Bruce and Vickie is most fitting in the 25th anniversary of the award…It was Bruce’s idea that brought this to fruition at the state fair. And now in the 25th year, this award goes to him and his good wife, honoring their many contributions to agriculture in the state. Congratulations to Bruce and Vickie.”

Ed Gravley from the Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union spoke about the struggles all farmers face saying, “I know what a struggle it is to run a farm…I know the weather doesn’t have enough rain when you need it, and it doesn’t have enough sun when you need it. It’s a struggle, and Alaska’s definitely a struggle, and they have done an outstanding job. You’re a pillar of the community and I want to thank them for all the hard work.”

He then presented them an award in gratitude for all of their years of hard work and years left of growing. He also presented the Bushes with a donation made on behalf of them to a charity of their choosing, which was the Mat-Su 4H Group.

Lt Governor Nancy Dahlstrom, shared with the audience that she has bought produce from their stand many times, adding that the best food for families is food that is grown locally.

“You’ve not only provided for your own family but you’ve contributed significantly to the entire community and by doing so, you’ve set an example and remain a vital part of our heritage here, and continue to inspire us.” You stand as an example to all of us and the ways we can give back to our community

“You’re not just farmers, but you’re stewards of the land, and you take good care of the land and it is such a great example.” She also said she was impressed that the Bushes are involved in 4H and Future Farmers of America.

When Bruce was given the opportunity to speak, he said that being named Farm Family of the Year was a career highlight.

“This is a really big honor for me, one of the highlights of my career,” he said.

Bruce recalled opening the farm stand in 1956, well before Alaska was even a state, saying that he’s been a farmer so long, he can’t remember a time where he wasn’t a farmer.

He also spoke of starting the award back in 2000, saying that he and Ed Kern started the award and feel it has turned out really well. “The idea was to get farmers recognized and give back. Nobody knew who we were. So now it’s working out pretty good for us. I think it’s been a pretty good program.”

Bruce also announced that he and his wife will be stepping back from most of the farming.

“We’re going to take a little step back and let the younger generation take over. It’s time for me to step down.” He encouraged everyone to buy local and reassuring everyone that his love for farming and the farming community will carry on.

“I really love farming. It’s been a great pleasure to be one…its hard work, but it’s worth it in the long run.”