Fair visitors who tour the agricultural museum will see a framed photo of broom maker Walt Thomas in the corner where he had spent 12 days a year working at his craft. Thomas, a retired dairy farmer from Baldwinsville, died in May, leaving a void that will linger with those who enjoyed his presence at every Fair. He had been a Fair character for over 30 years, sharing his knowledge and charm as he bound sorghum bristles onto handles to make “corn” brooms, patiently answering questions and making visitors feel welcome. The ag museum remains a special part of the Fair, but its warmth has been diminished a little with the loss of Walt Thomas, a true Fair original and a real gentleman.