State Fair 2018 (First Visit) - Progress Center

Saturday, August 25, 2018

The following is from the State Fair walking tour brochure:

"Progress Center"

"Built 1907"

"Then: Designed by St. Paul architects and built in just three months, this building originally was used to house poultry and was touted as 'the largest exhibition building for poultry in the world.' In 1928, poultry flew the coop and it became the State Exhibits Building. It housed an exhibit from each institution of the state, giving an opportunity for the department heads to explain the functions of their respective offices to citizens. In 1989, the building was renamed the Progress Center and held the Oriental Pavilion and later, the Wonders of Technology."

"Now: In 2006, Eco Experience exhibit opened in the building, focusing on renewable energy, organic food, and green technology. The Progress Center continues to feature presentations and hands-on exhibits along that theme."

State Fair 2013 (2nd Trip) - Hamline Dining Hall

One of the food items on my list to try this year was Mini Donut Batter Crunch Ice Cream by Izzy's. It was being sold at the Hamline Church Dining Hall on Dan Patch Avenue.  The Hamline Dining Hall has been there for years. In fact, I remember taking my younger brother Pete there on a trip we made to the Fair way back in 1989. As far as I know it's the last of the church dining halls left at the fair. Anyway, when Dale and I got there, they were out of the Mini Donut Batter Crunch. I went with mint chip in a cone and they topped it off for me with a scoop of sea salt and caramel by Izzy's. Dale got his in a cup and had the a scoop of the sea salt and caramel with a scoop of mint chip. Very delicious.