The most admirable form of giving is the giving of one’s time, and few people embody that spirit more completely than Dick and Martha Bush.

Dick and Martha have been devoted to the Cortland County Junior Fair since at least 1980, giving decades of service to ensure its continued success. Dick currently serves as Fair Superintendent and contributes his time to six committees: Budget, Finance & Promotion; Program & Fundraising; Commercial Rental; Buildings & Property Rental; Grants; and the Grounds Committee. Martha serves faithfully on the Constitution and By-Laws Committee. Their commitment to their fair—and to the fair industry—is truly exceptional.

Beyond their local fair, Dick and Martha have given countless hours to the New York State Association of Agricultural Fairs. They have attended the NYSAAF Annual Convention for nearly 40 years, always participating, sharing ideas, presenting programs, and supporting others. They have also been longtime attendees of New York Fair Managers meetings, where Martha notably served as President.

Their involvement extends beyond New York State as well. Dick and Martha have attended IAFE Zone 1 meetings and were part of the 2015 Zone 1 Bus Trip—an experience many remember fondly, especially thanks to Martha’s humor. Throughout the summer fair season, it’s not uncommon to see them visiting fairs across the state, always learning, supporting, and connecting.

Dick and Martha are honored as a team, because rarely—if ever—do you see one without the other. In 2025, they will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary, a remarkable milestone that reflects a lifetime of partnership, service, and shared dedication.

Their decades of service were formally recognized with their induction into the NYSAAF Hall of Fame in 2023, followed by their recognition as the 2024 NYSAAF Fair Persons of the Year.