Every year we hear about all of this new stuff at the Minnesota State Fair. New rides, new attractions and of course, new foods. But being at my first Fair in over a decade, I can tell you that a lot of things never change.

I use to come to the Fair with my Dad every year. It was one of my favorite days of the year. My dad was never much for the crowds, so he always took a day off work to take me. Now granted, I really only enoyed doing a few things at the Fair, like eating and watching all the TV and radio stations work. And I, of course, loved going to the Golden Gopher exhibit. But this is the first time I've lived in Minnesota during the Fair in 14 years. So I kind of have some fresh eyes.

So what's totally not new at the Fair?

THE GIANT SLIDE

Today was the first time I can recall ever riding the thing, but that has been her forever! What do they do with it in the winter, or with any of these things for that matter? That thing gets you going pretty fast. But I wonder what it would be like with a little ice on it.

THE GRANDSTAND

Same signage, same stands, that long ramp and the Star Tribune at the end of it, handing out bags. When I was growing up, being a newspaper writer, sportswriter to be exact, was actually the direction I thought I would go with my career. In fact, I interned at the Star Tribune when I was in high school, so hanging around their building was always a favorite.

THE HAUNTED HOUSE

I think I've only done it once, and I don't have any plans to do it this year, but when I saw it here, it brought back memories.

MACHINERY HILL

I'm sorry. I have a lot of respect for our great farmers here in Minnesota, but I'm a city kid. My dad use to spend a lot of time on Machinery Hill, and it was never a favorite of mine. I'm just not a fan of machinery, period. Not even a big fan of cars.

FOOD

Carmel apples in a cup, pronto pups, sno cones, funnel cakes and mini-donuts are some of my favorites. And they still taste the same.

PEOPLE

Minnesotans are Minnesotans. They always have been MInnesotans and always will be Minnesotans. If you are one, I don't need to explain it to you. There is just a special way how we all act, and enjoy things like the State Fair together. Other states don't understand why the Fair is such a big deal to us. But a lot of people that show up to our Fair understand. It's just one of those things you have to see for yourself.

Anyway, Rebekah and I are having a blast at the Fair. And we're enjoying meeting so many of you. If you get a chance, please stop by our 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS booth at Chambers and Carnes. We host bingo weekdays at 1pm and host Twin Cities Live each weekday at 3pm. Plus you can always stop by our booth and get free photos with your friends or your favorite member of the 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS staff in our photo booth. See you at the Fair!