Final preparations are underway for the 2014 Great New York State Fair August 21-September 1 at the State Fairgrounds in Syracuse.

Appearing on the August 2 edition of the weekly local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up, Acting Fair Director Todd Waffner and host, Kathy Whyte laugh their way through details of many things that the fair will have to offer this year, including fried food inventions and both new features and old favorites, with a large focus on the importance of the state's agriculture industry.

Waffner says Southern Tier products like craft beers, goat cheese and yogurt will be among products highlighted.

New this year is an exhibit Shipwrecks of the "Great" Great Lakes and a new operator of the midway.

After 75 years with the James E. Straights Show, Wade Shows Midway is ready to setup dozens of new and exciting rides, according to Waffner.

Also a first this year, tickets can be purchased online and advance sales are at a 40% discount.

More information on the fair can be found at www.nysfair.org and more details can be heard from Troy Waffner on the Southern Tier Close Up August 2 at 12:10 p.m. on News Radio 1290 WNBF.

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