This year’s Wayne County Fair Marshal is Bill Petty, a familiar and beloved face around the fairgrounds. Born and raised in Macedon, Bill has called Wayne County home his entire life. His deep roots in the community are matched by decades of hands-on dedication to the fair—doing everything from electrical work and general maintenance to overseeing the grounds, year-round until his retirement.

With over 20 years of fair service and a history of helping out there since the 1960s, Bill says he’s never seen it as a job—“it’s just something I like to do.” He takes pride in watching the fairgrounds grow, especially with the addition of new buildings over the years. When fair week rolls around, his family joins in the tradition, including his kids and his sister who lives next door.

This year, Bill is especially excited for the community to check out the fair’s newest addition: a new ride company, so the community should appreciate the new ride lineup bolstering the agricultural and local attractions. With his enthusiasm for “just about everything” at the fair, it’s clear Bill’s heart is firmly rooted in its success—and in the joy it brings to Wayne County year after year.  Bill is married to his wife Barb and together the have 4 children and 5 grandchildren.