The University will offer state fair aficionados a new, free way to attend part of the Great Minnesota Get-Together this summer.
During the fair, Internet users will be able to listen to live speakers from the University’s new state fair building.
A new Web site, www1.umn.edu/statefair99/, will utilize audio streaming to broadcast live hourly performances from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Topic titles range from “Just a Trim Please: pruning techniques” by urban horticulturist Mike Zins to “I Love You With All Your Faults” by tennis head coach David Geatz with players.
Audio streaming allows Web users to hear live performances without waiting for large files to download. Those without an audio-streaming program can download one free by clicking on a link at the Web site.
“Anyone with a 28.8 modem is capable of listening to the speakers,” said Joshua Spotts, a Web designer working on the project.
Web users will also be able to view the stage. The University’s Campus Cam will be installed across from the University’s stage.
Spotts said that although both audio and visual will be on the Web site, the two are separate.
— Dawn Throener