FUN IN HOLLYWOOD

ALAN LARKEE--CARNIVAL OWNER

Alan Larkee and his Tip Top Shows have been at Bayfest for two decades. (H. Marc Larson/Press-Gazette)

It's what I do: Supplying thrills is enough for Larkee

By charles Davis • cedavis@greenbaypressgazette.com • June 12, 2010

Alan Larkee brought 14 carnival rides to this weekend's Bayfest in downtown Green Bay, but don't bet on him riding a single one.
"I'm not scared. Heights don't bother me. I just don't like going around in circles," said Larkee, co-owner of Tip Top Shows, a Waupaca-based company that supplies thrill rides, games and tasty treats to about 40 events a year.

.Larkee, 69, of Riverview, Fla., manages about 50 employees and is on the road nearly 10 months a year. He was been in the business of fun for the last 48 years, taking over the company from his father.

He's been making the trek to Bayfest for about 20 years.

Growing up, Larkee wanted to be a teacher or football coach. But he quickly discovered you can take the boy out the carnival, but you can't take the carnival out the boy — even if the boy was never much of a thrill seeker.In fact, the last time Larkee gave it a go was nearly 15 years ago on a ride similar to a Ferris wheel.

Not one for going up and down and round and round, he lets his wife test out new rides before he buys them.But the job isn't all fun and games.

Someone has to look out for kids who try to put one over on his staff by sharing wristbands for unlimited rides.Despite what some folks might think, the midway games aren't rigged. He said the truth is they all take skill — sometimes considerable skill."If everybody came up and won a $20 teddy bear, how long would you be in the business?" he said.Even if the ball bounces out the hoop after 34 tries, festival goers can still enjoy a funnel cake, the company's top seller. Larkee, however, is "still a corn dog guy'' at heart.Larkee enjoys visiting each city, rolling out the good times and then packing up the tents and heading to a new spot. Amazingly, it only takes a day to set up. But it's no fun, he said, to take the operation down in pouring rain.Rain or shine, Larkee doesn't plan to get off the amusement business merry-go-round anytime soon."It's been my whole life,'' he said. "I wouldn't know what to do if I wasn't doing this."

KELLY-MILLER IN NEW HAMPSHIRE

Kelly Miller Circus in town July 1

Nashoba Publishing Posted: 06/11/2010
The Kelly Miller Circus will be performing at the Hawthorne Brook Middle School field in Townsend at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m., on Thursday, July 1.
Local merchants have an opportunity to have their banner hang under the bigtop. Each business will be announced during each show. Cost for a 4-foot-by-6-foot banner is $150.
If you have your own banner (up to 4-feet-by-6-feet), the cost to hang is $50. Only six banners are allowed. Please respond to Karen Clement at clem6six@verizon.net
Proceeds from the banners will help fund Townsend Recreation. Please respond by Monday, June 14,.
Tickets may be purchased prior to July 1, at a discounted rate of $10/adult and $6/Child (age 2-11), at Bailey's Bar and Grille, Townsend House Restaurant, Townsend Town Hall, Workers' Credit Union (all in Townsend) and Goss Farm in Dunstable. Tickets at the circus will be $14/adult and $7/child (age 2-11).

FROM DENVER---

LONG TIME NO SEE: Family-friendly fare, like Disney on Ice, will do better here if the show hasn't been around for a while. (Getty Images file photo )
Who We Are: Culture in Colorado

value and selectionFun but frugal: Big event promoters peg Denver as a deal-hungry placeA genre-by-genre look at what makes us unique

By John WenzelThe Denver Post
WE'RE CRAZY FOR string quartets, Latino comedians, technicolor dreamcoats - and for some reason - sculpture by George Rickey. A genre-by-genre look at what makes us unique.
When it comes to special events and family entertainment in Denver, the word is value.
That fact has become abundantly clear lately, at least to promoters whose job is to pinpoint what we will go for here.
"The economy, especially over the last year and a half, has really made people reevaluate what they do with their entertainment dollar," said Scott Gales, spokesman for Kroenke Sports Enterprises, which owns the Pepsi Center.
In addition to sports and live music, the Pepsi Center hosts family-friendly entertainment such as Smucker's Stars on Ice, the traveling Olympic figure skating show.
"Lately, the shows we've seen do very well here are ones that have never played (in Denver) or haven't been here in a long time. Stuff that's here every year is at a disadvantage."
That's not great news for perennial shows from nouveau-circus act Cirque du Soleil (which, for the first time in several years, has not announced any Colorado appearances for 2010) or the Harlem Globetrotters. And with money on their minds, many families are opting for all-encompassing entertainment experiences.
It's no shocker — and it's certainly not unique to Denver — but with so many folks scrambling to pay the bills, more equals better.
"I've had conversations with lots of 'mom bloggers' and what they're saying is 'If I'm going to spend the money to go to this show then I want more than two hours of entertainment,' " said Debbie Fitzgerald, co-founder of Fitzgerald Petersen Public Relations.
In addition to local attractions like Water World and the Clyfford Still Museum, Fitzgerald's company promotes touring productions from Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and Disney on Ice.
"We gear our events toward Colorado, which is just so healthy and active, so a lot of times what we'll do is have a skating party when Disney on Ice comes to town to promote the show," Fitzgerald said. "That's just what people do here."
John Wenzel

BIG APPLE CIRCUS NEWS

Barry Lubin, as " Grandma," performs in the Big Apple Circus. (AP Photo/Chitose Suzuki)
Big Apple Circus Comes to Eisenhower Park
"Welcome Back Bello!” starts June 11 and will continue through July 4

By Long Island Press on Jun 11th, 2010
The Big Apple Circus is back in town for their 32nd season and their fourth visit to Eisenhower Park in East Meadow. “Welcome Back Bello!” starts June 11 and will continue through July 4.
The New York City-based circus presents an all-new show every year, featuring renowned circus artists from around the world, including those from the U.S., Armenia, Brazil, Bulgaria, China, England, France, Germany, Italy and Russia.
The star of the show, Bello Nock, named America’s best clown by Time magazine, is known for his daredevil acts mixed with his goofball comedy. Bello can be spotted from a mile away with his 13 inch hair standing straight up. When asked about how he gets his hair to stay up that high, he responds: “I put Viagra in my shampoo.”
Performing in his blood. He is a seventh-generation member of a Swiss circus family. His father built the “Wheel of Wonder.” Originally crafted for NASA, it is now used as the high flying double-hamster-wheel-like object that Bello performs on.
Other performances in the big top are a juggler extraordinaire by the name of Picasso Jr. hailing from Spain, grandma the clown, aerial silk dancers, twin male contortionists, a trapeze act, a trampoline act and much more. There are also dancing dogs and horses, some which were rescued by the Big Apple Circus from all across America.
The traditional one-ring Big Apple Circus performs within in a 63-foot tent with a 140-foot diameter and a 440-foot circumference that holds 1,700 seats. The actual big top tent was made in Castlnuovo Scrivia, Italy. It takes a crew of 35 hours to set up, but only takes 3 hours to take it down.
The show is typically two hours with an intermission in the middle. Tickets go on sale June 10 and can be purchased at the Circus Box Office located directly in front of the tent. Seating is all reserved. Tickets range from $15 to $45.
Bello will perform gravity-defying sway pole feats free of charge at the L I Children’s Museum on June 16 a 2 p.m.
from longislandpress.com

BIG TOP BONANZA

Jun 11, 2010
Big top bonanza

Six-year-old Palmer Stone Elementary School student Chase Martel feeds one of the alpacas at the Carson & Barnes Circus at the Georgia International Horse Park on Friday. The circus has a petting zoo with llamas, burros, donkeys and pygmy goats, rides, elephants, pygmy hippos and a big top show. The circus will be at the Horse Park through Sunday. Showtimes today are 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday showtimes are 1:30 and 4:30 p.m.

SUMMER CIRCUS--SARASOTA

OPENING IN 2 WEEKS!
In every language – in every land – there’s only one word that means fun for the entire family: Circus! Join us as we bring a show that incorporates splendor, innovation, drama, music, amazing human talent, cultural history and most of all, the excitement and entertainment that can only be created by some of the greatest circus performers on earth!
Tickets are selling FAST! Get yours NOW! ONLY $12 for ADULTS, $10 CHILDREN under 12

CIRQUE du SOLEIL'S :ALEGRIA" IN SACRAMENTO

Cirque du Soleil's "Alegria" brings childlike wonder and joy to arena in Sacramento

June 10, Theater Examiner Cindy Warner
Clowns tell the story in Cirque du Soleil’s exuberant and macabre paradox called Alegria. The touch of tradition makes a joyful and heartwarming homage to all circus past and present. Moreover in the parallel universe of the real world, Alegria’s clowning looks like self-effacing humor in the face of worldwide success. Cirque du Soleil has become an international phenomenon growing out of a collection of Montreal street performers. Alegria is at once a humble and astounding tribute and show of appreciation by a troupe, while monumental, which has not gotten too big for it’s britches. Even with five thousand employees from more than forty countries.
So in a world of predators who will eat their own young, Cirque offers a dreamworld of possibilties and restores the soul by fostering childlike wonder in the human form, in all it's forms. If we just hush for awhile . . .http://www.examiner.com/x-30274-SF-Theater-Examiner~y2010m6d10-Cirque-du-Soleils-Alegria-brings-childlike-wonder-and-joy-to-arena-in-Sacramento

COLORADO SPRINGS

The curtain goes up on the Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey "FUNundrum" show at The World Arena in Colorado Springs Thursday -- and FOX21 Morning News was lucky to get a special visit from two of its performers, Ben and BiBi.
"FUNundrum" celebrates the 200th anniversary of the birth of the founder of the circus, P.T. Barnum.
The show runs at The World Arena from Thursday, June 10 through Sunday, June 13

FRIENDS OF CIRCUS WORLD ANNUAL GALA

Friends of Circus World to gather at annual gala

By Brian D. Bridgeford /News Republic Posted: Thursday, June 10, 2010

Friends of Baraboo's Circus World Museum will enjoy an evening of fine food and drink Sunday when the museum holds its annual Circus of Chefs, The Gala 2010, organizers say.
The festivities begin at 5 p.m. and take place in the W.W. Deppe Wagon Pavilion on the south side of the Baraboo River near the Parkinson Research Library on Lynn Street. Tickets are $125 per person with $100 of that amount being a tax-deductible donation to the museum, according to the CWM Web site.
Chefs, vintners and brewers representing 34 area restaurants, wineries and breweries will be sharing their creations with guests, said CWM Executive Director Steve Freese. It represents the largest group of food and beverage providers who have yet come to The Gala.
"People will have an opportunity to taste appetizers, entrées and desserts from the chefs, plus beer, wine and coffee from the beverage purveyors," he said. "We have Yahara Bay Distillery providing the vodka for the (complimentary) martini bar."
The CWM Web site lists a wide variety of restaurants represented, from Baraboo's The Barn Restaurant and Glacier Rock Restaurant and Bar in West Baraboo to Kaminski Brothers Chop House in Wisconsin Dells and Restaurant Magnus from Madison.
This year the museum will have an unusually large number of items to offer through the live and silent auctions, Freese said. In years past CWM has benefited anywhere from $25,000 to $45,000 from items people buy during the auctions.
http://www.wiscnews.com/baraboonewsrepublic/news/local/article_8e7319f2-7500-11df-afca-001cc4c002e0.html

NEW JERSEY "STATE FAIR"

Take a ride on the Avalanche coaster at this year's State Fair at the Meadowlands, which starts June 17 and runs through July 5. (Courtesy of the State Fair)

State Fair offers plenty of fun for all ages

By SUE BRUSKIN CLARKE • CORRESPONDENT • June 11, 2010

When Oscar Hammerstein penned the lyrics "Our state fair is a great state fair, don't miss it, don't even be late," he may as well have been talking about the State Fair at the Meadowlands Fairgrounds.

With more than 150 rides and attractions, 50-plus food vendors and loads of free entertainment, this family-friendly event, which will run daily from Thursday through July 5, is a must-do summer happening.
Begun in 1986 as a six-day fair featuring a smattering of rides and games, the State Fair at the Meadowlands has grown to become the largest event of its kind in New Jersey and the metro New York area, according to Michele Tartaglione, the fair's marketing director.
"We're hoping to have over 400,000 people attend this year during the 19-day run," she says.
Among the reasons young and old will want to flock to East Rutherford are the many free attractions scheduled to occur. Piccadilly Circus, Commerford's Educational Petting Zoo, Rosaire's Racing Pigs, Belmont Festival of Magic, Sea Lion Splash and a host of concerts will be featured daily throughout the event. In addition, certain days will spotlight limited-run attractions, such as the Steve Bayner Hypnotist Show, the Hell on Wheels Trilogy BMX Show, the Puppetone Rockers and the Batcopter Aerial Stunt Show, which showcases the original Batcopter from the "Batman" TV series and movies.
http://www.dailyrecord.com/article/20100611/ENT/100609046/1005/news01/State+Fair+offers+plenty+of+fun+for+all+ages

SUMMER FAIR OPENS IN MISSISSIPPI

AMANDA McCOY/SUN HERALD The Coast Coliseum Summer Fair kicked-off this week with a multitude of rides, shows and booths for the whole family to enjoy.

Thursday, Jun. 10, 2010
Summer Fair equates to summer fun

SUN HERALD

Pirates performing high-wire feats, street magic, juggling, circus acts and swine races are just some of the free shows and entertainment featured at this year’s Mississippi Coast Coliseum Summer Fair that began Thursday and continues through Sunday, June 20.
Now in its 24th year, the fair is a family favorite event with music, mid-way rides, games and contests for everyone.
Other free shows include a petting zoo, cloggers, cooking demonstrations, cheerleading and more.
Admission is free Sunday through Thursday and just $5 on Fridays and Saturdays for ages 13 and older.
Gates open at 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Prices for rides include pay-one-price of $20.
Pay-one-price ride times are Monday-Friday from 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday 1 p.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, June 14, with extended POP ride times from 1 p.m.-9 p.m.
Rides expected this year include the Mega Drop, Crazy Mouse Roller Coaster, ReMix and Fireball.
Details of free shows and entertainment:
n Pirates of the Colombian Caribbean Aerial High Wire Show is a pirate sword fight 25 feet in the air.
Read more: http://www.sunherald.com/2010/06/10/2250227/summer-fair-equates-to-summer.html#ixzz0qXeSokPE

Kelly Miller Circus at Harveyville, Kansas October 2008.

Kelly Miller Circus at Harveyville, KS from Surface & Surface Photography on Vimeo.

VIDBEL PERMIT TROUBLE

Circus performance in Marlborough canceled

By Anonymous GateHouse News Service Posted Jun 09, 2010

AMMARLBOROUGH — Friday evening’s performances of Vidbel’s Olde Tyme Circus “The Original Olde Tyme Circus Under the Big Top” in Marlborough have been canceled because the circus was unable to get permits in time for the event. Shows in Franklin scheduled for Thursday, June 10 have also been canceled.
Copyright 2010 The MetroWest Daily News. Some rights reserved

Circus trainers dispute humane groups' charges of beastly treatment

Elephants perform in the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Animal rights groups claim that circus animals are treated inhumanely. One elephant trainer, Ryan Henning, defends Ringling: "We dedicate our lives to these animals like they're our siblings or our kids." Courtesy photo

Animal attraction Circus trainers dispute humane groups' charges of beastly treatment

By AMANDA FITE World Scene Writer Published: 6/8/2010/www.tulsaworld.com

The circus is coming to town! Do you open your wallet to buy tickets — or felt-tip markers to create protest signs?
PETA is planning a demonstration for opening night of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in Tulsa, and it's not the only major animal-rights group that doesn't like the idea of animals performing in circuses.
The Humane Society of the United States says circus animals suffer and calls their quality of life "the big lie behind the big top." Groups urge the public to boycott circuses that feature animals and to write letters to newspapers protesting their presence.
Although The Greatest Show on Earth successfully defended itself in 2007 against a lawsuit that targeted its care of animals, Ringling is still feeling the heat of aggressive activist campaigns, and videos of alleged cruelty can easily be found on the Internet.
Hans Klose has heard the criticism, and it hurts.
The family act that he took over almost a decade ago — Klose's Performing K9s — is touring with Ringling's new show, "Zing Zang Zoom."
In a phone call during a circus stop in Wichita, Klose described most circus-bashers as extremists who think that all animals should remain totally untamed.
"If it was left up to them," he said, "you wouldn't have a dog on a leash or be able to take a carriage ride in Central Park."
At least 10 of the 13 dogs in Klose's act were adopted from shelters — an action many might applaud on its own. But Klose said some shelters refuse him when he says that he wants to train the dog for performances.
Rescue officials would "rather they stay in the pound," he said, clearly perplexed by the notion.
A dog barks while Klose is speaking, and he explains that he's watching TV with the pooch on his couch. Klose said he looks after 18 dogs, including five that are retired from the show.
"They're members of the family," he said.
Read more from this Tulsa World article at http://www.tulsaworld.com/scene/article.aspx?subjectid=370&articleid=20100608_272_D1_Attope674089&allcom=1

UNIVERSOUL CIRCUS IN NEWARK, NJ

UniverSoul Circus Coming to Town

Tuesday, 08 June 2010

NEWARK, NJ - Beginning June 9, audiences of all ages will be able to enjoy the UniverSoul Circus show, "We Play Too Much" in Newark.
The UniverSoul Circus will be performing at 430 Broad Street until June 20. As a part of a 30-city tour, the circus will also visit Hartford, CT and Boston, MA this summer.

Now in its 16th season, the show offers acts like Shanghai aerialists; European high-flying stunt basketball players; an entourage of South and Central American dare devils; and a tiger act.
Another notable act this year is "Russian Dog Whisperer" Irina Markova. Markova performs with her 14 poodles who also starred in this year's Sundance Film Festival. Markova and her poodles were part of a short documentary selectee named "The Poodle Trainer."
For more information, visit http://www.universoulcircus.com/.

VIET NAM CIRCUS

Balancing act: Ali Baba is accompanied on his adventures by a menagerie of different animals, including elephants. — Photo Courtesy Viet Nam Circus Federation
Updated June, 09 2010

Circus debuts magical Ali Baba show
HA NOI — A circus show adapted from the Arabic fictional tales Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves will debut in Ha Noi tonight. Entitled Dai Chien Thanh Baghdad (Baghdad Citadel Battle), the show is the latest offering from the Viet Nam Circus Federation (VNCF).
The 70-minute show, which features acrobatics as well as circus animals, is expected to become a favourite among children this summer.
According to the story which was written by Nhu Lai from the Youth Theatre, the animals, including elephants, horses, pythons, bears and monkeys, have been tamed by Ali Baba and join him on an adventure to find hidden treasure.
However, they run into trouble in the shape of his crafty older brother, Ali Boba, and forty thieves who are determined to get the gold for themselves.
Against all the odds and with the assistance of a beautiful girl, Ali Baba and the animals win their fight against the thieves and they all live happily ever after.
"Fifty artists from the Circus Federation, together with the animals, had to practise for nearly a year to perfect the show," said VNCF director Vu Ngoan Hop.
After Ha Noi, the show will travel to other provinces, including Vinh, Thanh Hoa, Ninh Binh and Quang Binh, "where local people, especially children, don't often get the oppurtunity to go to a big circus show", he added.
The show will start at 8pm tonight at the National Circus, 67 Tran Nhan Tong Street, Ha Noi. — VNS

Circus in Newry left without water

A touring circus with more than 50 people and 40 animals has been unable to access water for more than 24 hours at a site in Newry.


Circus in Newry left without water
Monday, 07 June 2010
Circus Sydney arrived at St Christopher's Park on Monday and is due to open on Wednesday night.
The employees, including their children, are from countries across Eastern Europe, and the animals include horses, llamas and emus, but no caged or exotic animals.
The circus say the council referred them to Northern Ireland Water but they have not yet been able to resolve the situationBilly Wilson from the circus says it is a very difficult situation:
"What we're trying to do is to buy bottled water for the children.
"But we can't do that for animals and the water from Newry canal is too polluted, with dead fish floating in it so we don't feel that's safe to give to the animals.
"We are in an emergency situation."

FROM SCOTLAND--

THE circus is coming to East Lothian.
Gerry Cottle's Circus will perform at East Links family park, near Dunbar, from Thursday to Sunday.
It's the first time Mr Cottle has taken a full-scale touring show around the country since 1993.
The latest tour, involving a cast of 30 performers from 11 different countries, began in the West Country in March.
Entertainments include aerial performances, gymnastics, clowns, jugglers and more.

ZERBINI CIRCUS DATE--

Circus to present 2 shows in Kulpmont

Published: June 8, 2010

KULPMONT - The Zerbini Family Circus is coming to Kulpmont June 16. The blue and yellow Big Top will set up at the Kulpmont Veteran's Sports Complex.
The St. Pauline's Center will sponsor the event. The circus will perform two shows at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.
For more than 200 years, the famed Zerbini family name has been known in the circus field of entertainment. Alain Zerbini, owner, is a seventh generation circus performer. Alain has been touring with his own show for 15 years. The family-oriented, one-ring, European-type show provides entertainment for children of all ages, from 1 to 92.
This tented circus features skilled performers who are experts in aerial, balancing and thrill acts. The animal trainers and animals will delight the audience. Funny clowns will bring a smile to the face of all. The Zerbini Family Circus has a menagerie of animals including a buffalo, camels, ponies, minature donkey, alligators, large snakes, tortoise and dogs. Pony and camel rides and the moon bounce will be available before the shows and during admission.
Complimentary admission passes good for up to four children (14 and under) are available at the St. Pauline Center, Holy Angels Church Rectory, Nite Cap Video and the information desk at the Shamokin Area Community Hospital, starting Wednesday. Adult tickets will be available in advance and at the door.
The St. Pauline Center thanked Kulpmont Borough for the use of the complex and individuals and area businesses that purchased tickets for the children of the area to attend.
The center said all proceeds from the Children's Circus will be put towards the "Children's Diabetic Fund" of the St. Pauline Visintainer Foundation. The foundation is optimistic that they will be sending more children with diabetes to a diabetic camp this summer.
The St. Pauline Center thanked the public for its support of the center's children activities in the community and again emphasized all solicitations will be applied only for the purposes mentioned.

from: http://newsitem.com/news/circus-to-present-2-shows-in-kulpmont-1.835000

See To Believe: Circus Town USA

CIRCO HERMANOS VAZQUEZ

CONEY ISLAND SIDESHOWS

COLE BROS CIRCUS 2010, ORANGE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, MIDDLETOWN, NY (STEVE KEELER)

COLE BROS CIRCUS 2010 (STEVE KEELER)

CIRCUS FLORA REVIEW, ST LOUIS

BWW Reviews:

Circus Flora's Daring and Dazzling

INGENIOSO Plays Through 6/27August 8, 2010
Last year was the first time I'd taken my son to see Circus Flora, and even though he was excited to go again, he's at the stage where he's a wee bit afraid of the dark. So, when the lights went down at the beginning of this year's show, Ingenioso, he freaked out a little. But, the charm of the performers, particularly the animal ones, quickly won him over and by the close of the night he was sporting a broad smile as we exited the tent. I think the fact that he got a great big hug from his favorite clown Nino (Giovanni Zoppe) certainly helped. And, it's that kind of warmth and good humor that you'll find on display here, along with a considerable amount of athleticism and grace.
This year the show is themed around The Man of La Mancha, and as such, Yo-Yo the narrator (Cecil Mackinnon) opens the action by introducing Carlos Svenson as Don Quixote, who sits tall in the saddle tilting at the windmill-themed scenery. Of course, any hint of seriousness is immediately tempered by Nino's arrival as Sancho Panza, following close behind on a miniature donkey. Throughout the evening, the basic tale is utilized to set the backdrop for a series of acts that are outfitted and loosely based around the theme, carrying the story forward to a satisfying conclusion.http://stlouis.broadwayworld.com/article/BWW_Reviews_Circus_Floras_Daring_and_Dazzling_INGENIOSO_Plays_Through_627_20010101

A Horse of a Different Color: Equestrian "Circus" Comes to Town

A Horse of a Different Color: Equestrian "Circus" Comes to Town ---

nbcnewyork.com

RINGLING RED IN TULSA

The Greatest Show on Earth Lands in Tulsa for the Weekend

06-08-2010

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TULSA, Okla. – Through the mystery of magic and the mastery of skill, audiences will be spellbound as Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents ZING ZANG ZOOM, a thrill-filled, mind-blowing circus spectacular where family fun is no illusion offering hours of exciting family entertainment for about the price of a movie ticket. Magical Zingmaster Alex and his assistant, Levitytia, lead audience members through an extraordinary world of fantasy that celebrates the uplifting spirit of the circus and also wards off the cynical Mr. Gravity and his team of Heavies who try to bring everyone down all at ZING ZANG ZOOM, the 139th Edition of The Greatest Show On Earth which runs Thursday, June 10 thru Sunday, June 13 at the BOK Center in Tulsa.
Captivating illusions await Children Of All Ages, as apprentice illusionists mysteriously levitate their parents, a four-ton elephant disappears before the audience’s eyes and the mischievous Mr. Gravity transforms into a ferocious tiger. Throughout ZING ZANG ZOOM, circus-goers’ jaws will drop when they see stunning thrill acts that demonstrate unbelievable fearlessness and bravery in performances that defy gravity and logic. Graceful aerialists perform high above the arena floor, fearless human cannonballs blast through the air, and dexterous high-wire walkers skip across a thumb-thin wire. Chinese acrobats achieve the impossible as they perform the trapeze on swinging balance beams. Two performance troupes join forces to create a never-before-seen Quadruple Russian Fire-Swing, and daredevils on dueling Wheels of Steel tempt fate.
Most magical of all is the incomparable array of exotic animals, which includes a herd of Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, and Arabian and Friesian horses that join forces with human performers to create an experience that reminds everyone that the magic of The Greatest Show On Earth® lives on!
And one hour before show time, families can meet the performers, get autographs, and see an amazing elephant that paints at the Ringling Bros. Clown College at the All Access Pre-show – FREE with a purchased ticket!

THE DISNEY WORLD OF NEW HAMPSHIRE

The Disney World of New Hampshire

hsj.org, Tuesday, June 08, 2010

By Mrs. O’Rourke

Did your parents take you to Story Land when you were little? Did you ride in Alice’s Tea Cups or venture onto the Buccaneer Pirate Ship? Well, the O’Rourke family is going to make their first trip to this family-friendly park in June. Mrs. O’Rourke cannot wait to see the excitement on Luke’s face when they arrive at this wonderland in Glen, NH! At the mere age of three, he is sure to shed many smiles when going on these rides for the first time.

This park has been in operation for 57 years. It is located in Glen, NH that is about a three-hour ride north of Boston. This park is geared for children ages 2-12 and has 21 rides. Some of the rides include the Cuckoo Glockenspiel, the Polar Coaster, and the Carousel. There are live shows during the time, which include “Molly Molecule” and “Royal Hanneford Circus.” If it is a hot and humid summer day, there are plenty of places to get wet like riding on the Bamboo Chute or going to the Oceans of Fun Sprayground.
Story Land is a magical place where characters like Snow White, Cinderella, the Mad Hatter, and Humpy Dumpty come to life! Young children are able to let their imaginations run wild and enjoy of the excitement of the outdoor rides. There’s nothing better than a cold ice cream cone and a ride on the Antique Cars when you are three years old!

SAN DIEGO COUNTY FAIR--

The Heart Attack Cafe offers popular dishes, such as deep fried butter.

Photo: Halie Johnson
Annual fair returns with fried food headlining
By Jonathan Horn

Attendees of this year's San Diego County Fair will not only bake in the Southern California sun, but will also have the chance to eat fried Pop-Tarts and Klondike ice cream bars.
Those are two of the many "culinary" highlights of this year's "Taste the Fun" theme for the annual summer tradition, which set a record of 1.275 million visitors last year. Fairgoers can also try a newly concocted sweet potato fry dog, followed by a dessert of funnel cake on a stick. For those who have the appetite, also new this year is the 4-pound belly buster burger, 11 inches wide with 10 slices of cheese, 30 slices of dill pickles and 5 ounces of burger sauce.
"It's the annual fair, what the heck, you come out, you splurge and you've got the rest of the year to be good," said fairgrounds Chief Executive Officer Tim Fennell of the 22-day event. "It's a treat."
Just do us all a favor and don't go on any of the more than 80 available rides right after eating these. But as in the case of last year, Tuesday Taste of the Fair returns, in which attendees can try a taster portion of the fair's fare for $2 each.
For those who can still bear the utter sight of food after that, this year's fair will also include several cooking contests with a cash prize of $150, enough for at least a month's supply of Tums. There will be seven contests in all, each on a different day. Entrants will compete for, among others, who can make the most creative sandwich, guacamole, pizza and deep-fried "delights."
Speaking of fried, artist Jim Victor will spend his days at the fair this year transforming 600 pounds of butter into a sculpture depicting a fair scene. Also new this year is the performer known as Bandaloni, who manages to play a guitar, harmonica, drums and sing, all at the same time.
An interactive family-friendly "Star Trek" attraction makes its debut. It will run five times daily, every 90 minutes, starting at 1:30 p.m. Participants will have to master the intricacies of "Star Trek" as they try to defeat alien enemies. Famed artist Robert Wyland, known for painting oceanic scenes on large buildings, will paint with kids at the fair on June 16.
As usual, the fair will consist of various rides, animal interactions and several exhibits. It begins today and runs through July 5, with the exception of three Mondays: June 14, 21 and 28.
"If you like music, you've got to come to the fair; if you like food, you've got to come to the fair; if you like rides, we've got more than 80," Fennell said. "If you like to shop, shop 'til you drop; if you like livestock, we've got them too."
These are just some of the highlights of this year's San Diego County Fair. For the rest, visit www.sdfair.com/fair.

DELMARVA CHICKEN FESTIVAL

Delmarva Chicken Festival

Friday June 18, 2010 from 10:00am - 10:00pm

Delaware State University
1200 N Dupont HwyDover, Delaware 19901

This annual event celebrates the chicken and its importance to the Delmarva peninsula. Highlights include a chick display, chicken-themed competitions for kids, the world's largest frying pan, chicken recipe samples, rides and games, crafts, car and tractor shows, a petting zoo and more.

SAD NEWS FROM DAVID POWELL

Hello,Sad news in the circus world today.

Audrey Powell pass way saturday June 5, 2010.

She is the wife of Ron Powell (24 hr man/circus clown) and mother of David Powell (PR Agent). More information will follow.

David Powell 330-347-3652

News Death Notice
POWELL, Audrey J. 68, of Springfield, passed away at 7:12 AM Saturday, June 5, 2010 in St. Johns Center. She was born February 28, 1942 in Springfield, the daughter of Melvin C. and Lela (Hyer) Dawson. Mrs. Powell was retired form Meijers. Survivors include her husband of 47 + years; Ronald G. Powell, four children; Pamela M. Wright, Niles, Ohio, Kimberly S. Powell, Apple Creek, Ohio, David C. (Deborah) Powell, Apple Creek, Ohio and Ron E. Powell, Springfield, grandchildren; Christina Walters, Jennifer (Kevin) Drowns, Zachary Blevins, Alicia Ware, Jessica Powell, Codi Powell and Madison Powell, great grandchildren; Taylor Franks, Madilynn Blevins, Talya Hinton, Olivya Drown and Gianna Walters, one brother; Richard (Betty) Dawson, Springfield, several nieces, nephews and cousins and her loving companion "Cookie" her dog. She was preceded in death by her parents, her step mother; Ednabelle Dawson, a sister; Sue Ann Dawson and her loving dog "Freckles". Visitation will be held from 5:00PM until 8:00PM Tuesday in the JONES-KENNEY-ZECHMAN FUNERAL HOME. Funeral services will be held at 2:00PM Wednesday in the funeral home. Burial will follow in Ferncliff Cemetery

FROM SCOTT BUNDY---

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO---

Ringling animal walk set for Tuesday

June 07, 2010 AM

WARREN EPSTEIN, THE GAZETTE

In what continues to be the best annual PR stunt each year, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus will precede their big show at the World Arena with an animal walk scheduled to start 11:30 a.m. Tuesday.

A large group and Asian elephants and a variety of other circus animals will start their trek from the circus train near Gate 4 of Fort Carson and march north by northwest on B Street to Venetucci Boulevard (Highway 87) and turn left. The animal walk will then follow Venetucci for about one mile to the World Arena.Because train schedules can be unpredictable, the start of the walk could be earlier or later. Check here for updates.

The circus starts Thursday and runs through Sunday.

SHRINE CIRCUS NEWS--

.....Circus set for Wednesday

Olney Daily Mail Posted Jun 07, 2010,Olney, Ill. —

The Ainad Shrine is proud to present the George Carden Circus beginning at 7:30 p.m. June 9 in front of the grandstand at Richland County Fairgrounds in Olney City Park.
In addition to the circus there will be cotton candy, hot dogs, popcorn, snow cones, nachos, soft drinks and Malone's Taffy.
It will also offer elephant and pony rides during intermission; face painting and various toys available throughout the evening; and clowns with balloon creations for the kids.
The Shrine Circus program and coloring book will be available for purchase, which also provides the opportunity to win one of three bicycles to be given away during intermission.
Tickets are available at MotoMart in Olney or at the grandstand the night of the event. Group rates are available.
For more information, call site chairmen Bill Clow at (618) 843-4912, Galen Schwartz at (618) 843-4063 or Joe Hunt at (618) 843-4868

FREE CIRCUS TICKETS FOR THE UNEMPLOYED

Free circus tickets for the unemployed

June 7th, 2010, 5:08 pm ·

The circus is coming to town…and if you’re unemployed, you and your family can get in free.
Circus Vargas will give tickets to the jobless for any weekday show for two Orange County stops in its 2010 tour.
The circus will be in Santa Ana at Westfield Main Place this Thursday through Monday, June 14. It will then move to the Westminster Mall from Thursday, June 17, through Monday, June 28.
To get tickets, arrive about an hour before show time to any weekday show (no weekends). You must bring a layoff notice or stub from an unemployment check to prove you are out of work. An unemployed worker’s family can also go in free with the proof.
Just a few months in to its current tour, Circus Vargas has given away 7,000 tickets. The owners, Katya and Nelson Quiroga, were suprrised at hoe deeply the recession has hit families, said Joan Hart, a spokeswoman.
“There are a lot of women out there who are single and unemployed,” she said. “They just can’t afford to take their kids to the circus. It’s kind of sad to think kids can’t go to the circus for that reason.”
Tickets range from $15 to $50 for children and $20 to $55 for adults

Presence of elephant in travelling circus draws ire of animal lovers

An elephant performs in the Cirque Estival show in Miramichi last weekend.
Presence of elephant in travelling circus draws ire of animal lovers
Published Tuesday June 8th, 2010
The big top may conjure up fond childhood memories, but for some New Brunswickers circuses such as the one currently touring the province raise ethical questions about the use of animals in entertainment.
Alexandra MacLean/Canadaeast News ServiceAn elephant performs with the Cirque Estival show in Miramichi. The circus's use of animals drew protesters. Andrew MacMullin/Canadaeast News ServiceAn elephant performs in the Cirque Estival show in Miramichi last weekend. Emily MacLean, 24, participated in a protest at Sunday's Cirque Estival show in Saint John. The hairstylist from Sussex heard the circus would be in the area on the radio and she wanted to do something to protest the use of animals in circuses.
The Cirque Estival is touring Eastern Canada and has been travelling through New Brunswick with Limba, an elephant in her 40s who's on loan from the Bowmanville Zoo in Ontario. MacLean, along with a handful of others, stood outside Harbour Station on Sunday, holding signs reading: "You choose, they can't" and "Honk if you love elephants."
"We got a lot of positive and negative feedback," MacLean says, adding, "At least we got people thinking about it."
Several Facebook groups have been started to protest the Cirque Estival's use of animals in its shows. Amy Scott, who administers one of the groups on the social networking website, says Limba is too old to be performing and conditions on the road are too solitary for her.
"If people want to go to the circus, they should watch people perform," says Scott, who lives in Halifax and will protest upcoming shows in Nova Scotia.read more at: http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/front/article/1084843

Circus Elephant Strolls City Streets

FSU "FLYIN' HIGH" CIRCUS 2010

April 18, 2010 — FSU Flying High Circus 2010 Homeshow Series, Spectacular!

Jake & Nicole on the Aerial Cradle.

TEBALA SHRINE CIRCUS, 6.5.2010

Ringmaster Peter Sturgis talks during the Tebala Shrine Circus at the Indoor Sports Center on Saturday, June 5, 2010

BEN WOLOSZYN RRSTAR.COM.
Miss Eristine performs during the Tebala Shrine Circus at the Indoor Sports Center

Neecha and one of her dobermans perform during the Tebala Shrine Circus
from rrstar.com Rockford, IL

THE MAGICIAN'S SHOWCASE

THE MAGICIAN'S SHOWCASE

2010 SAN DIEGO COUNTY FAIR

Melinda Morgan, left, and Amanda Smith, both 19 and from Ocean Beach, get inverted on a giant ride called Speed at the 2009 San Diego County Fair. The 2010 fair opens Friday with the theme "Taste the Fun." (File Photo by Hayne Palmour IV - Staff Photographer
DEL MAR: Food-themed county fair begins Friday
By CIGI ROSS - cross@nctimes.com Posted: June 6, 2010
The 2010 San Diego County Fair may have a culinary theme, but the county's biggest party isn't just for chefs.
The 22-day festival ---- this year titled "Taste the Fun" ---- begins Friday and runs through July 5 at the fairgrounds in Del Mar; the fair will be closed on the first three Mondays.
Sprinkled throughout the grounds will be exhibits and displays featuring cooking demonstrations, competitions and, of course, lots of tasty treats, fair officials said.
"We're celebrating everything food," said Linda Zweig, a spokeswoman for the 22nd District Agricultural Association, which runs the state-owned fairgrounds. "We're an agricultural association, so we have a lot of wonderful producers in the area."