"cracker country" news and stories

If you've got a pair of elasticized maternity jeans in the back of the closet, let them see the light of day. If you've got a sweatshirt that's miles too big, drag that out too. The Florida State Fair has begun.

This year, the fair (February 4-15, in Tampa) is proud to introduce several new snacks for your dining pleasure. While you wander through Cracker Country (it's not a salute to Ritz crackers), munch on some "fair squares," which are described as deep-fried foods that "resemble beignets with pink powdered sugar topping."