BILL PRICKETT VISITS--

HAMID-MURAT SHRINE CIRCUS

3-03-12

I spent a delightful Sat afternoon in Indpls, Ind., visiting the Hamid Production of the 67th. MURAT SHRINE CIRCUS.

James, Jr., Shirley, Belinda, James 111, and Haley were all there and working on the show. Music was provided by Larry Rothbard, keyboard, and Tony Bruno, percussion. They do such a great professional job.

Finally got to see the FLYING PAGES aerial act and it is specutalor.

I had seen Shane Hansen perform many times but had never met him and his lovely wife Alecia. Alecia had a hand in designing the Aquriun aerial presentation.

Was surprised, and pleased, to see Laura Herriott on the show with her dogs and mixed animal review. Also working in the act is her husband Fernando Ortiz.

Peter Sturgis, RM, does an excellent job and had several pieces of new wardbrobe.

Just Larry Clark was a hit with everyone, as was Johnny Rockett in his clown routines and Cybertron.

This date closed Sun evening and has to move 600 plus miles to Hamburg, PA., by Wed. to prepard for their March 15-18 show. This is a GREAT show and the Hamid family does a GREAT job.

Don't miss it.

PICTURES BELOW--

Shane Hansen, Shirley Hamid, Larry Rothbard, James Hamid, Jr.

Laura Herriott

Shirley Hamid and father David Conners

ALL Photos: Bill Prickett

Ringling Dragons

Mar 1-2012



Uploaded by klsdad on Mar 4, 2012
Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey -Opening night Mar 1, 2012 at the Prudential Center,
Newark, NJ. "Dragons"

On 03/02/12, Kevin Gerrone<nightoftheghoul@adelphia.net> wrote:
Hi I just came across your blog, very nice to say the least!

I am looking to buy anything be it photos letters or anything on Captain Harvey Boswell and or his Palace of Wonders.... Not sure if you have anything that you would consider selling or know anyone who might.... You can email me at kevin@gerronestudios.com or call me

at 216-246-9461

Thanks so much

Kevin

Sent from my iPhone

Free admission with food at the Lee County Fair

Story Created: Feb 27, 2012-- FROM: WINK-TV

Jordan World Circus comes to Mt. Pleasant

By SUSAN FIELD

from: themorningsun.com

Sunday, March 04, 2012

Emma Paradise hopped on Vicky’s back like an expert Sunday at Finch Fieldhouse on the campus of Central Michigan University.
Emma, 8, of Ithaca had been on an elephant ride before, at an orchard near Greenville.
Vicky, a 38-year-old Asian elephant, was a popular attraction at the Jordan World Circus, which performed twice at CMU Sunday.
William Morris of Tampa, Fla., is Vicky’s trainer.
He also works with two other elephants in the Las Vegas-based Jordan World Circus.
Morris has been with Vicky since she was 4 years old.
As people started filing into Finch to be seated, and get face paintings, Sno-cones, popcorn and other treats, Morris was walking with Vicky while children and their parents lined up for rides.
When Vicky isn’t giving rides, she performs in the circus, and one of her favorite tricks is standing on her hind legs, Morris said.
That isn’t the easiest of tasks for Vicky, who weighs a bit more than 8,000 pounds.
Morris, who is the fourth generation in his family to train elephants, said Vicky’s favorite treat is apples, and that she eats fruits and vegetables, hay and grain. While Morris was waiting for people to get in line for rides, his 3 1/2-year-old son, Austin, took a ride on Vicky.
Austin has been riding elephants since he was 1, Morris said.
“He loves it,” he said.
The circus included an aerialist, lions and tigers, daredevils, clowns and bears.

Circus bringing elephants, contortionists, more to arena

March 05, 2012

The Herald-Dispatch

HUNTINGTON -- Piccadilly Circus will offer two performances Wednesday, March 14, at the Big Sandy Superstore Arena.
Features of the circus include the Elephant Extravangza with an elephant standing on one foot; Motorcycle Madness with daredevils spinning in a globe; Katunga, a giant jungle monster; the Mongolian Angels, a group of contortionists; and the White Tiger Spectacular.
The show lasts for one and a half hours and start at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Free children's tickets have been distributed at all elementary schools, preschools, day care centers, and churches. Free tickets are also available at sponsoring businesses in the area.
There are special "Buy One Get One Free" adult ticket available online at http://www.thefuncircus.com/ for a limited time.
Ticket prices range from $20.64 to $50.66.
You can either get the tickets online at http://www.thefuncircus.com/, or at the box office on show day.

Review: Circenses, Circus Ronaldo

CIRCENSES: An old-fashioned big top on Wellington's waterfront from Belgium's Circus Ronaldo. EWEN COLEMAN

from: stuff.co.nz

02/03/2012

Waitangi Park until March 18 Reviewed by Ewen Coleman

After the unfortunate postponement of the opening night, Circenses – the Ronaldo family circus from Belgium – finally performed last night to rapturous applause in Waitangi Park.
Part of the Ronaldo family's philosophy behind their circus is to present it very much like circuses used to be and for it to be as much theatre as circus, both of which are very evident.
Old-fashioned in look and style, with many elements of Commedia dell'arte, burlesque and slapstick, it is as much about the way they perform as to what they perform.
There is little in the way of amazing feats or acts with the usual string of juggling, knife throwing, tight-rope walk and the incompetent clown figure who in fact is the most proficient performer of all. Yet somehow the lack of awesome acrobatics is made up for by the sheer versatility that each of the Ronaldo family is able to bring to the show: from grandparents Johnny and Maria to the young grandchildren Nanosh and Pepijn.
And then there is the added dimension of the audience seeing the show from both out front and backstage. After the interval the audiences change places. Those sitting watching the performances in the first half go and sit backstage for the second half seeing what goes into making the show work while those watching the off stage antics in the first half now see how it all comes together in performance in the second half.
Not an original idea and at times the goings on backstage became drawn out and appeared to be filling in while waiting for the act out front to finish. Yet it was obvious that the Ronaldo family are very skilled performers indeed, and that through all the confusion and chaos that went on backstage and often translated out the front their timing was impeccable: their years of working together have made them a very cohesive and proficient group of ensemble players.
So, while overall Circenses may not be quite up to what the publicity makes it out to be, it is nevertheless different, entertaining and well worth seeing.

SAD NEWS FROM SARASOTA--

Rodeo cowboy entertainer Hub Hubbell dies at 94

Hub Hubbell came to Sarasota in 1963. He performed into his 90s, roping and showing off the tricks he had taught his horses.

By LEE WILLIAMS, Correspondent

From: Sarasota Herald-Tribune

Saturday, March 3, 2012

SARASOTA COUNTY - Hub Hubbell was a cowboy's cowboy.A rodeo star, exhibition shooter and trick roper, Hubbell was the consummate entertainer, who worked with the likes of Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, Gene Autry, Montie Montana and dozens more from the golden age of Hollywood Westerns.
Clayton Moore — the Lone Ranger himself — once helped Hubbell install kitchen cabinets.
These Western genre elite were more than just Hubbell's co-stars. They were his friends, said Hubbell's biographer, Judith Leipold.
"He is a legend," Leipold said. "His passing will be mourned by people throughout the nation.
Harold Joseph "Hub" Hubbell, 94, died Saturday on the back porch of his ranch — the property on University Parkway with the roadside rodeo props.
He was preceded in death by his wife Eunice, who died of cancer in 2009.

STAFF PHOTOS / THOMAS BENDERHub Hubbell, a 92-year-old cowboy,came to Sarasota in 1963. Today he still does his shows that involve rope tricks and paintings with a trick pony named Silver. Published: Friday, August 6, 2010
Ellian Rosaire knew Hubbell for more than 25 years. She owns one of his favorite hangouts, a stable and riding academy in Sarasota.
"He was world famous, the shining star of Sarasota's cowboy scene," Rosaire said. "He was a cowboy gentleman through and through."
"He was devastated by his wife's death," Rosaire said. "They were really in love. They had a wonderful relationship. It has been difficult for him, but he's had plenty of good company."
Hubbell was born in Connecticut and enlisted in the U.S. Army Cavalry Corps in 1942, during World War II.
He was stationed in Georgia, and ended up tending government-owned cattle. He even managed to talk an Army colonel into granting him permission to wear a cowboy hat and western boots. read more at:http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20120303/ARTICLE/120309855/2066/NEWS

FROM TV7-SARASOTA

02.17.12

Strawberry Festival Florida 2012








Uploaded by NederC on Mar 2, 2012
http://www.lilies-diary.com

Despicable Me 2 - Official Teaser Trailer (2013) HD Movie

Uploaded by movieclipsTRAILERS on Mar 1, 2012

Subscribe to TRAILERS: http://bit.ly/sxaw6h
Despicable Me 2 - Official Teaser Trailer (2012) HD Movie

"Despicable Me 2 teaser" "Despicable Me 2 movie" "Despicable Me 2 trailer" "Despicable Me 2 HD" "Al Pacino" "Jason Segel" "Steve Carell" "Pierre Coffin" "Chris Renaud" movieclips movie clips movieclipstrailers popuptrailer movieclipsDOTcom

Beja Shrine Circus returns to Brown County Arena in Ashwaubenon near Green Bay

Showgirl Nina Carden handles a python named Albert, left, and his girlfriend, a boa named Queen Elizabeth as setup begins for the Beja Shrine Circus at the Brown County Veterans Memorial Arena in Ashwaubenon Thursday. (Corey Wilson/Gannett Wisconsin Media)

Written byHannah O’Brien,Gannett Wisconsin Media

from: postcrescent.com

Mar. 2, 2012

ASHWAUBENON — Twenty aerialists, 10 tigers, one 5-ton elephant, and about 16 hours to get it all ready.
The Beja Shrine Circus rolled into Green Bay on Thursday, and crews spent the day setting up in the Brown County Veterans Memorial Arena.“It’s definitely a group operation to get it done,” said showgirl Nina Carden, who has been with the three-ring circus for four years.Performers will suit up for seven shows today through Sunday. The circus has been in Green Bay for nearly 20 years, organizers say, but this year there will be enough new acts to keep people coming back.“We really do try to bring a new show every year,” Carden said.
This year’s show will include new tiger and horse acts, a new ringmaster who calls himself a “daredevil extraordinaire,” new jugglers and a family of trampolinists.“You’re always going to have an act for everyone,” she said. “You’re going to have beautiful girls. You’re going to have thrills.”But new attractions doesn’t mean out with the old. Fan-favorite Bo, the 5-ton elephant, will make an appearance. Bo is the largest male performing elephant in the world, Carden said.“He’s part of the family,” she added.

Bags of cotton candy are stacked for eventual sale as setup begins for the Beja Shrine Circus at the Brown County Veterans Memorial Arena in Ashwaubenon Thursday. (Corey Wilson/Gannett Wisconsin Media)

Organizers of the Beja Shrine Circus said their animals are cared for in a “healthy, loving and safe environment,” according to a written statement from George Carden Circus International.“We’re considered to be a torture-free circus,” said Amanda Tackett, spokeswoman for the George Carden Circus.However, protesters plan to be outside the Brown County Veterans Memorial Arena during all show times to protest the use of animals in circuses.The animals “are not performing because they like to or because they want to,” said Marilyn Roffers of Green Bay-based Citizens Looking for Animal Welfare Solutions. “They’re performing because if they don’t, they’re afraid they’ll get beaten.”During last year’s circus, about 24 people protested, Roffers said. Protesters this year will hold signs and hand out pamphlets to people going to or leaving the circus, she said.The Beja Shrine Circus is a fundraising event for the Beja Shriners, a group that participates in community service in Green Bay and supports the Shriners Hospitals for Children. The hospitals provide free pediatric care at 22 locations across the country.

Hannah O’Brien writes for the Green Bay Press-Gazette

Little circus thinks big

Plenty of hoopla as Eve Everard rehearses for the show. Photo: Stuart Walmsley

Ron Cerabona

from: canberratimes.com.au

March 3, 2012.
There might be no big cats in the circus, but the performers have plenty to roar about.
Many a circus traditionally has three rings. The Great Australian Bite-Sized Circus has three performers, but this newly formed Canberra venture wants people to think ‘‘inside the box’’ and understand that it’s not the size that matters. It’s a labour of love for co-founders Eve Everard, 29, and her partner Luke Forrester, 20, who have pooled their talents with those of Kerry Truman, 19, to create a self-financed small-scale show with big ambitions.
Not that the size means a lack of diversity. This circus is animal-free – wanting to show what humans are capable of – and promises feats of balance, acrobatics and aerial skills from its three performers who have performed in 14 countries among them. She says their show combines character work and audience interaction with spectacle, ‘‘all the things we really love and we wanted to make sure the show will showcase these things’’. It’s all bound up in a story, she says. ‘‘The theme is that the circus has been taken over by toys that have all come out of a magical toybox. Luke is a tin soldier, Kerry is a jack in the box and I play the ballerina out of the music box.‘‘There’s all sorts of mischief the toys get up to.’’

Bite-Sized Circus performer Kerry Truman getting ready for the show's opening.

Photo: Stuart Walmsley

Their intention after the Canberra season is to go on tour in Australia, especially to places that don’t get to see big circuses and as the show develops to bring in more Circoarts alumni with other skills to keep the show varied and exciting. ‘‘Other things we’re aiming to do are setting up at primary schools and scout halls and donating a portion of ticket sales as thanks for having us.‘‘We want to show what we’re capable of and give something back.’’Read more: http://www.canberratimes.com.au/entertainment/little-circus-thinks-big-20120303-1u92w.html#ixzz1o6JfopeI

FROM: CASEY GIBBS---

The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Get More: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

Piccadilly Circus to bring family fun to Kingston

The Fun CircusPiccadilly Circus brings “Real Family Fun at Real Family Prices” to the Ryan Center at the University of Rhode Island for two shows on March 30.

Thursday, March 1, 2012

from: thewesterlysun.com

Mark your calendars for a show like none other, as Piccadilly Circus brings “Real Family Fun at Real Family Prices” to the Ryan Center at the University of Rhode Island for two shows on March 30, at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Piccadilly Circus has entertained families throughout North America for over 25 years and have pulled out all the stops. You’ll see the “Elephant Extravaganza,” an elephant stand on one foot; “Motorcycle Madness” has motorcycle daredevils somersaulting and spinning in a big Globe of Dome; “Katunga,” the giant jungle monster; the fabulous Mongolian Angels outstanding contortionists; the “White Tiger Spectacular”; crazy comedy with circus clowns, even a 1923 Model T with a mind of its own; daring aerialists; cirque artists and much more.
Youth tickets start as low as $14 and are on sale online at Ticketmaster, at the Ryan Center Box Office or by calling 800-745-3000. An online exclusive “Buy One, Get One Free” offer on adult tickets, two for $33, is available prior to 10 a.m. on show day, redeemable at Ticketmaster by using the code CIRCUS. Special adult and youth VIP tickets are available to sit ringside. Free children’s tickets will be distributed at elementary schools, pre-schools, day care centers, churches and sponsoring businesses in the area. For more information on how your school or business can receive complimentary tickets please contact the Ryan Center marketing department at 401-788-3230 or marketing@theryancenter.com.

‘Wolfman’ Likes Hairy Face, As Do Ladies

Image Credit: Courtesy Danny Ramos Gomez

By ABC News Mar 2, 2012

ABC News’ Jasmine Brown reports:
He may be hairy, but he has a way with the ladies.
People call Danny Ramos Gomez ”the wolfman.” He has a condition called hypertrichosis, which causes his body to produce an abnormal amount of hair. He has always looked this way.
At a young age, Gomez and his brother Larry, who also has the condition, were exhibited in a circus side show as “wolf children.” Gomez still works in the circus, performing daredevil feats on the trapeze and trampoline.
Betty Tampa, one of Gomez’s closest friends, said that people still react to him differently and often insult him because of his appearance. “They perceive him as a wolf — actually as a person from another world — and they insult him,” said Tampa. “They say things to him and they howl at him.”
But Gomez’s hairy chest and face have not hindered him romantically.
Lucy, an ex-girlfriend Gomez was with for six years, said that she found his hair to be quite sexy. She said her favorite feature was his eyes, but what made her fall in love with him was his personality.
“He’s very noble,” said Lucy. “He’s very affectionate. He’s a very good person.”
Gomez has a daughter from a relationship before Lucy. He has a new girlfriend, named Hilda. Aside from the occasional trim at the barbershop, he has not changed his hair, despite how easily he could look more normal by waxing or shaving.
“I don’t think I will ever change it,” Gomez said. “That’s the way they love me. That’s how they will always love me. Imagine if I changed my face — who would know who I am?”
Watch the full story — updated since ABC News Primetime met Gomez in 2006 — on “20/20

EDITOR'S NOTE: UNFORTUNATELY THIS WAS TELEVISED

LAST NIGHT

Preserving and creating lifetime memories

The sights and sound of the huge and colorful Kelly Miller Circus from Hugo, Oklahoma has arrived

The Kelly Miller Circus will be offering elephant rides during intermission.

Friday, March 02, 2012

By: Yanira Resendez,

The Laredo Sun

LAREDO, TX. - The sights and sound of the huge and colorful Kelly Miller Circus from Hugo, Oklahoma has arrived in Laredo. The circus captures a thundering performance with elephants, tigers, camels, and more of this American tradition.
The wafting smells of freshly baked popcorn, and that rare smell of the circus tent are nonetheless a recurring memory of our childhood memories. This circus is dedicated to creating memories for children while having a wonderful family experience.
For John Moss, the ringmaster of the Kelly Miller Circus, and in the circus business since 1985, his childhood memory was his inspiration to perform at the circus.
“My father loved the circus and he would be first in line in my hometown whenever the tickets went on sale when the big Barnum & Bailey Circus would come to town.
I would spend two hours mesmerized and usually wake up the next morning wondering if it really all happened. Like many circus performers, I am just trying to relive that childhood memory every day,” said Moss.
After being in the concession department for a number of years, his big break was in 1994 when he finally became on the ringmaster of a circus. He didn’t have proper training back then, but he imitated the ringmasters that he remembered as a child.
Moss, along with his wife, two boys, and a newborn daughter, travel across the United States to create memories for other families.
The circus has an extensive level of professional performers, one even dating back to the 1980s. Some that have worked in previous circuses meet down the road later in their career.
What’s fascinating is that from all the different performer families, they all form one huge family. Their crew now only includes performers, workers, mechanics, school teachers, cooks, among the many who contribute to this huge project.
This circus isn’t inside an arena, or a parking lot, it is on actual gravel, the way the circus was founded, which speaks volumes of the unique atmosphere.
So what can you expect from this particular circus?
“A live performance!” said Moss.
Moss continued, “These are performers who are in front of you, a variety of animals. The magical thing about a live performance is that when they give and the audience reacts to that with give an applause, this wonderful cycle occurs and that’s what makes a life performance special.”
The circus is a world of wonder. More than ten men unloaded and unfolded the enormous tent where all the magic happens. Other workers put together the rails, banners, and fed the exotic animals.
Then the show is ready to begin. Acrobats, jugglers, hilarious clowns and circus performers get ready for the once in a lifetime experience in the world of wonder.
Tickets are at extremely affordable prices. Showings are Friday at 6 and 8:30 p.m. and on Saturday thru Sunday at 3 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at the Casa Blanca Ballroom Grounds.

PHOTO: Going to daddy’s work

Saturday, March 3, 2012

from: Charleston Post and Courier.com

Wade Spees // The Post and Courier

Narantuya Gombosuren, from Mongolia, rushes with her daughter Jargalmaa, 5, and son Adiyadorj, 3, to catch the employee bus to the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus’ 7 p.m. show at the North Charleston Coliseum on Friday. The children were leaving their rolling home, in a line of about 40 rail cars parked at the former Navy base, to watch their father, a strong-man with the circus.

Wonderland Circus coming to Cordova

Special to The T&D

Edisto High School in Cordova will play host to the 2012 edition of the Wonderland Circus at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 6, in the school’s gymnasium.

from: thetandd.com

Thursday, March 1, 2012
Edisto High School in Cordova will play host to the 2012 edition of the Wonderland Circus at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 6, in the school’s gymnasium. Doors for the event, sponsored by Edisto Primary School, will open at 5:30 p.m. Advance tickets are $3 for students and $4 for adults, and $4 at the door for students and $5 for adults. Under the direction of Ringmaster Bill Brickle, with musical direction by Alan Thompson, the Wonderland Circus will feature unicycle, trapeze, sword-balancing, juggling, comedy and animal acts, and more. Cotton candy, popcorn, pizza, drinks and circus-themed souvenirs will be available for purchase. Camel and pony rides will also be available for $3 per ride prior to the show. For more information or to purchase tickets, call Edisto Primary School at 803-536-4782.Read more: http://thetandd.com/lifestyles/leisure/wonderland-circus-coming-to-cordova/article_3063b56a-631f-11e1-a653-0019bb2963f4.html#ixzz1o6VrAzsO

Escape to the Join the Circus (at Least for a Few Hours) Clowns, Jugglers, Acrobats, Oh My!

The tent is raised for the Big Apple Circus.Credit Courtesy of Rich Reitman

By Audrey Levine

from: baskingridge.patch.com

February 29, 2012

Each week, we’ll tell you about one great idea to give you a much deserved break, and make your life a little easier, maybe a whole lot more enjoyable.
OK, so this might not necessarily give you a break, in the truest sense of that word, but it is a great escape for the family itself—the Big Apple Circus is coming to town!
From March 3 through March 18, the circus will be at TD Bank Ballpark with "Dream Big," its annual show. The circus will include a juggler, a mechanical doll who comes to life, acrobats, conjurors and trapeze flyers, plus much more.
According to information from the county, this year's circus includes International Clown Hall of Fame inductee Barry Lubin in his farewell tour; the Flying Cortes trapeze artists from Colombia; magician and assistant Scott Nelson and Muriel Brugman; and solo hand balancer Melanie Chy from Switzerland, among other highlights.
The circus will hold 25 performances at the ballpark, which is the third stop on its seasonal tour.
Tickets range from $15 to $50, and can be purchased by calling 888-541-3750, or visiting bigapplecircus.org.

Model Circus and Train Weekend Planned at Library

The Circus Model Builders of Southern Wisconsin/Northern Illinois will display their intricate layouts at Fremont Public Library the weekend of March 24.

from: triblocal.com

By Jan Oblinger

Intricate model circuses and model circus trains will be on display during a special open house at Fremont Public Library in Mundelein the weekend of March 24-25.The North Central O Gaugers Model Railroad club, which operates a train layout at the library, has invited the Circus Model Builders of Southern Wisconsin/Northern Illinois to display their model circus layouts, complete with the big top, rides, shows and animals. The event will feature seven model builders and will be set up in the library’s main meeting room on the second floor. Hours of the show are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. March 24, and 1 to 4:30 p.m. March 25. The library is located at 1170 N. Midlothian Rd., Mundelein.At the same time, the train club will operate circus-themed cars and engines on its layout nearby. In addition, Thomas and Friends as well as Diesel and Friends will be running on the train layout for all of the Thomas fans. The Lionel Collectors club will be present providing information about Lionel trains and offering door prizes. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, go to www.NCOGtrains.com or call (847) 630-4998.

Plant City Strawberry Festival begins



Published on Mar 1, 2012 by ABCActionNews
Up for some truly awesome strawberry shortcake and great entertainment? Then head on out to Plant City.

Florida Strawberry Festival - Racing Pigs





Published on Mar 3, 2012 by ABCActionNews
OUt at the Florida Strawberry Festival, Meredyth Censullo does play-by-play for the Robinson Racing Pigs.

Florida Strawberry Festival - Chocolate Covered Bacon



Published on Mar 3, 2012 by ABCActionNews

Out in Plant City, ABC Action News reporter Meredyth Censullo bravely tries chocolate covered bacon!

FROM MIKE NAUGHTON---

MARCH 1, 2012

I finally played Schenectady!

FROM: Mike Naughton, mikenaughtoncircus@gmail.com One of the biggest stops on the vaudeville circuit was Schenectady, NY and on Wed. Feb 29th I finally made it to Schenectady. Maybe vaudeville's return comes next.

Mike

IN 27 MINUTES

Time was not on our side but we did our best to flash.

Thinking of Bill and you.

The Yankee Doodle Circus performed Wednesday evening at Schenectady High School.

The event was a benefit for the school's chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions.

Hula Hoop champion Elena Arestov performs during the Yankee Doodle Circus performance at Schenectady High School, to benefit the school's chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions on Wednesday evening Feb. 29, 2012 in Schenectady, N.Y. (Philip Kamrass / Times Union )

Pat Cashin, the Clown Prince, carries his pair of the "World's Largest Underpants," while following Linda Judeikis of Rotterdam and her son Jack, 3, for a moment to their seats before the start of the Yankee Doodle Circus performance at Schenectady High School, to benefit the school's chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions on Wednesday evening Feb. 29, 2012 in Schenectady, N.Y. (Philip Kamrass / Times Union )

Hula Hoop champion Elena Arestov performs during the Yankee Doodle Circus performance at Schenectady High School, to benefit the school's chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions on Wednesday evening Feb. 29, 2012 in Schenectady, N.Y. (Philip Kamrass / Times Union )


Pat Cashin, the Clown Prince, fixes his hair before the start of the Yankee Doodle Circus performance at Schenectady High School, to benefit the school's chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions on Wednesday evening Feb. 29, 2012 in Schenectady, N.Y. (Philip Kamrass / Times Union )

Children watch the Yankee Doodle Circus perform at Schenectady High School, to benefit the school's chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions on Wednesday evening Feb. 29, 2012 in Schenectady, N.Y. (Philip Kamrass / Times Union )

Children watch Pat Cashin, the Clown Prince, during the Yankee Doodle Circus performance at Schenectady High School, to benefit the school's chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions on Wednesday evening Feb. 29, 2012 in Schenectady, N.Y. (Philip Kamrass / Times Union )
Read more: http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/Photos-Circus-act-3372146.php#ixzz1nsxuBYPm

Hans Klok 5 minute Illusion Challenge



Uploaded by gaafman on Sep 23, 2008
For a Dutch TV-show Hans Klok and the diva's of magic were challenged to do as many illusions as he could in 5 minutes. Enjoy & no exposure please.

British gov't plan to ban wild animals in circuses criticized by campaigners

(Xinhua)

from: peopledaily.com.cn

March 02, 2012

LONDON, March 1 (Xinhua) -- The British government announced on Thursday that it planned to ban wild animals from circuses, but the move was met with criticism by those who had campaigned for the issue.
The government's plan to ban circuses in Britain from using performing wild animals, like tigers, lions, and elephants, came after the suffering of an elephant in a British circus was exposed by an animal rights' group, Animal Defenders International (ADI).
ADI told Xinhua on Thursday afternoon that the government plans were "useless" and "a cynical ploy" by the British coalition government.
"There is absolutely overwhelming evidence of circus suffering and not a single animal welfare body that will defend this industry," said Jan Creamer, chief executive of ADI.
"We were promised a ban in 2006. This was followed by consultations, expert examinations, working parties, impact assessments and feasibility studies. The last public consultation gave an overwhelming 95 percent of public in favor of a ban," he said.
Members of Parliament had voted to ban wild animals from circuses last June, but their vote was not binding on the government and did not become law.
MP Mark Pritchard, one of the main campaigners in parliament for a ban, said, "Any licensing scheme should also guarantee that no new wild animals are imported into British circuses. I don't believe the government when it says it will move towards a ban."
Animal welfare minister Lord Taylor said, "We are developing proposals to introduce a bill as soon as parliamentary time allows. In the meantime we are introducing a Circus Licensing Scheme to ensure decent conditions for wild animals in traveling circuses," Taylor said.
Under the scheme, anyone responsible for a traveling circus with wild animals must have a license, and agree to welfare standards and a retirement plan for the animals.

Needhamites bring circus to town

Wicked Local staff photo by David Gordon.

Kate Law Hoflich (right), who runs and performs in a circus, rehearses for her upcoming show with fellow performer Joanne Verginio of Needham (left) on Tuesday evening, February 21, 2012 in Newton.

By Emily Cataneo

Wicked Local Needham

Posted Mar 01, 2012
Needham — Curled on the floor next to a blue gym mat in a capacious ex-loading dock, wearing neon legwarmers, Kate Law Hoflich describes the circus apparatus she invented.
“I thought of things I’d want to do in the air first,” said Hoflich about how she invented the aerial shell, a white circle crisscrossed with white bars. Then, she said, she designed the shell to fit the proportions of her body.

Wicked Local staff photo by David Gordon.Kate Law Hoflich (top), who runs and performs in a circus, rehearses for her upcoming show with fellow performer Joanne Verginio of Needham (bottom) on Tuesday evening, February 21, 2012 in Newton.
Hoflich, a Needham resident, is co-artistic director of aerial dance company Bow and Sparrow, which will perform for the first time in the Boston area on Friday, March 9 in Somerville. Bow and Sparrow is a bicoastal company, with the other half of the company based in California, and the March 9 performance, called “Helos,” will feature both New England and California performers.Read more: Needhamites bring circus to town - Needham, Massachusetts - Needham Times http://www.wickedlocal.com/needham/news/x643482551/Needhamites-bring-circus-to-town#ixzz1nxSr2nmy

Send in the (real) clowns: Daily Newser's attempt to run away with the circus falls flat

Reporter learns that Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey clown try-outs are much tougher than they look

Marcus Santos for New York Daily News

Daily News reporter Dan Beekman shows off his juggling skills during Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey auditions for would-be clowns at Grand Central Terminal.
from: nydailynews.com

For three awkward minutes Tuesday, I felt like The Greatest Dope on Earth. Then a professional clown and a little person came to my rescue.
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey were holding open auditions for aspiring clowns at Grand Central Terminal. When my editor found out I could juggle, my fate was sealed.
As a reporter, I sometimes check out scary slums and crime scenes. But the prospect of clowning around in public gave me the chills.
I rushed to Grand Central and fastened a red clown nose on my schnoz with trepidation.
There were seasoned circus performers from Ringling in the crowd and about 30 would-be clowns, most with amusing gags and serious skills.

Bryan Smith for New York Daily NewsGigi the clown greets Sal Furia and son Anthony of Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, at the auditions.
Matthew Belopavlonich, 25, trekked all the way from Tampa, FL to try out.
“My dream job is to be a clown,” said Belopavlonich, who impressed the Ringling judges with a dance routine. “Clowning is the only thing in the world I would drop everything for.”
Before long, I was the clown dropping everything. I began my act with three small juggling balls, tossing them side to side. Then two of the balls collided and went flying across Grand Central.
Next I tried to juggle a bright orange soccer ball with my feet. But it skidded away. The crowd was chuckling and I was all alone under the lights with no backup plan and a bad case of stage fright.
I almost hugged Ringling veterans Henry Higinio and Paolo Cesar when they showed up to help.
The clown and little person juggled with me and taught me some tricks. After the fiasco ended, Higinio, sporting a bowler hat and lipstick, offered encouragement.
“You need practice,” he said. “But it was your first time.”

Some of the aspiring clown hopefuls who attended the auditions in Vanderbilt Hall this morning.
Manhattan elevator technician Ray Gomez, 43, who brought his grandson to watch the show, was more honest. “You suck,” he said. “I could see you sweat and the juggling was just bad.”
I removed my clown nose sadly and sulked until four-year-old Chase Clark piped up.
“I liked it,” my tiny fan said.
I brightened, briefly.
“You were funny when you dropped the ball," said Clark.
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey will perform several shows next month at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., the Izod Center in East Rutherford, N.J. and the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale.
Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/send-real-clowns-daily-newser-attempt-run-circus-falls-flat-article-1.1030156#ixzz1nxY27Yr4

Mid-Winter Fair offers up 'tropica'' fun

Workers work on ride maintenance Thursday in preparation for the California Mid-Winter Fair & Fiesta, which opens today. (CHELCEY ADAMI PHOTO)

By CHELCEY ADAMI

from: ivpressonline.com

March 2, 2012

IMPERIAL — Workers raced about Thursday prepping rides, placing prizes, polishing mirrors, brushing down livestock and more for the opening today of the California Mid-Winter Fair & Fiesta.
Following the theme “Tropical Nights and Carnival Lights,” a half million lights will take over the fairgrounds, and visitors will have opportunities to have tropical fun whether it’s interacting with exotic animals or competing in the tropical salsa contest, every day through March 11.
Eight new rides were added this year to make 44 in total while the kid land has been expanded and a new layout used.
Carnival General Manager Corey Oakley said it’s one of the most fun, safest, cleanest, most drug-free carnivals around. The fair is also using mostly LED lights this year in an effort to substantially reduce energy use.
The fair features some ongoing events such as the Imagination Circus or the Turkey Stampedes, while other performances will only occur once.
There will be two to four Imagination Circus shows a day where about 30 children can dress up and be part of the show which lasts between a half hour and an hour.

Another example of an ongoing exhibit is the one by the Imperial Valley Gem and Mineral Society where visitors can pan for gold, cut geodes, clean fossils and more.
A daily schedule of offerings is available at www.californiamidwinterfair.com
A variety of livestock will be shown and judged every day as FFA and 4-H clubs Valleywide turnout to compete.
The tribute band “Journey Unauthorized: Tribute to Journey” performs tonight while visitors can see a variety of other tribute bands, original artists, regional battle of the band winners and others perform on other dates.
High School Madness is Monday while the Jimmie Cannon Jazz Festival is Thursday.
Numerous community organizations will have informational exhibits throughout the fair, and the family-friendly event also offers different cuisines for the tasting as well as traditional fair food.
Tickets available at the fair gate are $8 for adults, children ages 6 to 12 for $5, seniors for $6, and children ages 5 and under free.
WOW carnival coupons are redeemable for carnival bracelets which allow a person to ride all fair rides for any one day. The WOW carnival coupons are $25 Monday through Thursday and $30 Friday through Sunday.

Circus life - and death - depicted in new exhibit and book signing

By Gayle Faulkner Kosalko Times Columnist nwitimes.com

Thursday, March 1, 2012

The art exhibit "Life's A Tightrope" will open to the public from 6:59 to 9 p.m. Friday at Studio 659, 1314-119th St., Whiting, Indiana. Admission is absolutely free, and the gallery will be serving fun circus refreshments and maybe even give visitors a chance to "step right up" and play a game. It's definitely the greatest show on 119th Street.
Continuing the circus theme, author and historian Richard Lytle will talk about another circus, the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, as he lectures at a book signing for his book "The Great Circus Train Wreck of 1918: Tragedy on The Indiana Lake Shore."
This event will be held at 1 p.m. March 10 at Studio 659. Copies of the book will be available for $20. And the studio's exhibit will make the perfect, if not eerie, background for the book signing.
The 1918 train wreck has been called one of the worst in U.S. history. More than 80 people were killed and another 127 injured.
The Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus train was coming to Hammond for a performance at 4 a.m. on that fateful day, June 22, 1918 when it is said that an empty troop train came barreling down the tracks, piloted by an engineer who had fallen asleep.
The troop train smashed into the back of the circus train, which was carrying about 400 performers and roustabouts. The troop train demolished three of the cars before it finally came to a stop.
The horror continued as the train cars caught fire and those who had made it through the original wreck were trapped and burned to death.Read more: http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/lake/whiting/circus-life---and-death---depicted-in/article_69c7d4aa-741f-5a3d-a863-3e89720935cf.html#ixzz1nxd4aHAQ