Gratiot County recognizes top Farm Family, Agri-Business at Rural Urban Day – The Morning Sun

More than 700 guests turned out on a warm, bright and sunny afternoon on Thursday for the 46th annual Rural Urban Day celebration at the Gratiot County Fair for Youth Fairgrounds in Alma.

Those who attended had the chance to chow-down on a steak dinner, view a display of farm machinery and listen to musical entertainment, while youngsters had the opportunity to participate in a number of children’s activities.

However, due to the high temperatures a petting zoo from Anderson and Girl’s Orchard had to be canceled to ensure the safety of the animals.

But most of those in attendance were on hand to find out who would be the recipients of two major honors.

The winner of the Gratiot County Farm Family of the Year Award was the Joe and Jennifer Butcher family of Arcada Township, while Joseph Thompson CPA of Middleton took home the Gratiot County Agricultural Business of the Year Award.

The Butchers are also the owners of Butcher’s Excavating.

“This award is very special to my family and will forever be treasured,” Joe Butcher wrote on his Facebook page.

Joseph Thompson CPA provides all types of accounting services including tax preparation and planning, estate and trust taxes, business planning, bookkeeping and consulting.

The 2021 award recipients were the Mills family of Pine River Township and the Alma Bolt Company.
Rural Urban Day is an event held each year to honor and recognize the county’s rich agricultural heritage and traditions.