The Ontario County Agriculture Fair Society, at its January 14, 2019 Board Meeting, announced the establishment of the George A. Payne Fund and Apprenticeship Program.
This Fund & Apprenticeship Program honors the lifework of our friend and colleague, George A. Payne, who has served the Ontario County Fair since 1945 (age 16) and continues to contribute to the successful running of Ontario County Fair even today.
Mr. Payne, the owner of NAPA Shortsville Auto Parts, is a well-respected, hardworking business man as well as local philanthropist. Not only has Mr. Payne given countless hours to the Fair Society over the years, but also the Boy Scouts of America and Rotary International. He rose through the ranks and presided over the Fair Board as President for over 30 years. George oversaw many improvements over the years including, new buildings, re-model of buildings, new grandstands, new First Aid building, addition of Wolcott Park and many others.
He built friendships, teamwork, camaraderie and a legacy of excellence not only with other fair board members, but also with the organizations and businesses that work with the Fair Board to bring summertime fun for everyone to the Ontario County Fair.
The Ontario County Agriculture Fair Society is honoring Mr. Payne’s dedication to our community through this program. This will afford students the opportunity to work with the Fair Board to gain organizational skills and interpersonal skills to help propel them toward a fulfilling career and a lifetime of giving back while also bringing enhancements to the fair itself.
This Fund received its initial contribution from George Payne’s children, who have seen their own lives shaped and enhanced by their father’s love of the Fair and Ontario County. Join us in celebrating by making a donation to the George A. Payne Fund and Apprenticeship Program. Contact any of our Fair Board members or send your contribution to OCF, PO Box 324, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
