Experiences are shared by Jim and Jan Strandlie of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico and their visiting of the ancient Mayan ruins of cities, which prospered thousands of years ago.

A recent trip to the Shrine Circus in St. Paul with their granddaughter triggers memories and prompts a look back into the development of the “circus”…back to early Rome. From small to large, the circus and county fairs remain a favorite for young and old alike!

Is there really a Santa Claus and what does he have to do with Christmas? Virgina Handlin wrote to the New York Sun many years ago asking the truth about Santa Claus. The Sun wrote an editorial back to Virginia that is warmly remembered today.In part two of this piece the Rev. Billy Graham is asked to speak at a luncheon in his honor. He tells a story about Albert Einstein.

Hubert H. Humphrey was Minnesota’s “favorite son”. He championed the issue of Civil Rights. One could consider Coya Knutson Minnesota’s “Favorite Daughter”. Knutson was the first women elected to Congress.

The Minnesota State Fair began in 1859 and has now grown to cover 320 acres. The Minnesota State Fair is one of the most visited fairs in the country, boasting attendance of a million and a half visitors each year.

Also on the show: Jan interviews Mike Sorterberg, a Pennington County Fair board member since 1978.