Saturday, February 7, 2009
FLORIDA STATE FAIR PICTURES (02/06/09)
Well from the look of the crowds there yesterday looks like they're comming out!
The question is are they spending?
Deep Fried Twinkie
This Giant Slide is a permanent fixture at the Florida State Fair.
Deep Fried Twinkie
This Giant Slide is a permanent fixture at the Florida State Fair.
Friday, February 6, 2009
FLORIDA STATE FAIR WEB CAM (FOX13-TAMPA)
Picture from the Live Cam at the Florida State FairAbout 6:30 Tonight!
BARNETT BROS CIRCUS #1 (FRED HOFFMAN)
During the late 1920s through the mid-40s, the city of York,SC was winter home to several circuses. One was the Barnett Brothers (originally the Ray Rogers circus). It originated in Canada. The name was changed to Barnett Bros in 1933. The show eventually moved to the U.S. and wintered in York, S.C. The title of the show was changed to Wallace Bros, in 1940. The Bennett Brothers Circus also wintered here. They used the time off the road to train and to design new shows. The Barnett Brothers occupied the block bounded by E. Jefferson and Trinity Streets.(FROM A YORK COUNTY, SC HISTORICAL SITE)
The Barnett Bros. Circus was founded in Canada in 1927. In 1929, the company moved its winter quarters to York, South Carolina. The Circus was operated for 16 years by Ray W. Rogers. The show was renamed the Wallace Bros. Circus for the year of 1937, and the years 1941-1944. Rogers died in 1943, but the cast and crew merged with Clyde Beatty Circus. In 1944, remaining equipment was sold to Clyde Beatty and Floyd King
Thursday, February 5, 2009
NEW ARRIVAL AT RINGLING SHOW
In this Jan. 26, 2009 file photo provided by Feld Entertainment, elephant handler Trudy Williams tends to "Barack" at the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Center for Elephant Conservation, in Central Florida. The 250 pound male Asian elephant was born at the center on Monday, Jan. 19, and according to the center, is only the fourth elephant to be born in the United States as a result of artificial insemination. Barack's mother, Bonnie, joins them in the pen. 8:24 a.m. ET, 2/1/09
It's A Boy! 22nd Asian Elephant Born at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Center for Elephant Conservation. SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR KEEPING ELEPHANTS IN THE CIRCUS
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR KEEPING ELEPHANTS IN THE CIRCUS............................Go online and VOTE... http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29020334/
OABA CIRCUS UNIT MEETING - Crowne Plaza - Tampa, FL - 9:30 PM - Friday, February 13, 2009.
SPECIAL OFFER: Anyone attending and purchases the circus book, "SPANGLES, Elephants, Violets and Me" will receive one OABA Camel Pin. Victoria Cristiani Rossi, author and OABA Member will be signing in the CROWNE PLAZA Lobby. Victoria will donate all book profits for the day to the OABA CIRCUS FUND..
Hope to see you on the 13th...
David Orr, OABA Circus Fan Representative CFA Animal Committee Member
updated 7:36 p.m. ET, Wed., Feb. 4, 2009WASHINGTON - The treatment of circus elephants went on trial in a U.S court Wednesday with animal-rights groups accusing Ringling Bros. of violating the Endangered Species Act when it uses bullhooks and chains to control its performing pachyderms.
During opening statements, the two sides showed dueling videos that painted vastly different portraits of the animals' lives under the big top.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Animal Welfare Institute and other activist groups say they will prove that Asian elephants are injured physically and emotionally by their treatment in the circus.The groups say long hours traveling to more than 40 cities a year by train harms the highly social and intelligent animals, and they want Ringling Bros. to stop using them in their shows.
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and its parent company, Feld Entertainment, say the activists are just philosophically opposed to animals living in captivity and want to destroy a beloved American family tradition.
Defense lawyer John Simpson said the circus is nothing without its elephants, and the tools are needed for safety and are not harmful to the animals.
"For them to come in here and say they are not against the circus is like saying they aren't against baseball but the use of bats and balls," Simpson said. He said the circus would not shy from the dispute with animal-rights proponents, no matter what it costs. "As far as we're concerned, bring it on," Simpson said.
Differing accounts"All right, the battle lines are drawn here," U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan said as he took the bench for the opening statements. He told both sides it is never too late to settle, drawing laughter from the two sides who have been arguing since the case was filed in 2000.
The two sides gave vastly different descriptions of the main training tool, which resembles a fireplace poker or cane with a metal tip curved down to a point.
Click for related content Newsvine vote: Should circuses stop using elephants?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29020334/ Click here to vote!
OABA CIRCUS UNIT MEETING - Crowne Plaza - Tampa, FL - 9:30 PM - Friday, February 13, 2009.
SPECIAL OFFER: Anyone attending and purchases the circus book, "SPANGLES, Elephants, Violets and Me" will receive one OABA Camel Pin. Victoria Cristiani Rossi, author and OABA Member will be signing in the CROWNE PLAZA Lobby. Victoria will donate all book profits for the day to the OABA CIRCUS FUND..
Hope to see you on the 13th...
David Orr, OABA Circus Fan Representative CFA Animal Committee Member
updated 7:36 p.m. ET, Wed., Feb. 4, 2009WASHINGTON - The treatment of circus elephants went on trial in a U.S court Wednesday with animal-rights groups accusing Ringling Bros. of violating the Endangered Species Act when it uses bullhooks and chains to control its performing pachyderms.
During opening statements, the two sides showed dueling videos that painted vastly different portraits of the animals' lives under the big top.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Animal Welfare Institute and other activist groups say they will prove that Asian elephants are injured physically and emotionally by their treatment in the circus.The groups say long hours traveling to more than 40 cities a year by train harms the highly social and intelligent animals, and they want Ringling Bros. to stop using them in their shows.
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and its parent company, Feld Entertainment, say the activists are just philosophically opposed to animals living in captivity and want to destroy a beloved American family tradition.
Defense lawyer John Simpson said the circus is nothing without its elephants, and the tools are needed for safety and are not harmful to the animals.
"For them to come in here and say they are not against the circus is like saying they aren't against baseball but the use of bats and balls," Simpson said. He said the circus would not shy from the dispute with animal-rights proponents, no matter what it costs. "As far as we're concerned, bring it on," Simpson said.
Differing accounts"All right, the battle lines are drawn here," U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan said as he took the bench for the opening statements. He told both sides it is never too late to settle, drawing laughter from the two sides who have been arguing since the case was filed in 2000.
The two sides gave vastly different descriptions of the main training tool, which resembles a fireplace poker or cane with a metal tip curved down to a point.
Click for related content Newsvine vote: Should circuses stop using elephants?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29020334/
Katherine Meyer, arguing for the animal-rights groups, showed a bullhook in court and said it's used to jab, prod and beat the elephants on a daily basis, resulting in puncture wounds, bloody lacerations and infections.
Simpson preferred the term "guide" when describing the instrument, which he said is used as an extension of the handler's arm to reach up to the animals. He pushed the hook into the palm of his hand and used it to scratch behind his ear and said even if it might be painful to a human, elephants are much larger animals with thicker skin.
He did not deny that the bullhook sometimes punctures the animals' skin, but said if that is prevented by the Endangered Species Act than so would shots, surgery and other veterinary practices.
Simpson argued that the circus' elephant breeding is helping propagate the species and "may well be their best defense in the battle against extinction."
Feld Entertainment has 54 Asian elephants, 19 which travel and perform and 35 which live at the company's 200-acre conservatory in Florida. The newest, born a few minutes before Inauguration day, was named Barack after the new president and was the first conceived by artificial insemination.
Katherine Meyer, arguing for the animal-rights groups, showed a bullhook in court and said it's used to jab, prod and beat the elephants on a daily basis, resulting in puncture wounds, bloody lacerations and infections.
Simpson preferred the term "guide" when describing the instrument, which he said is used as an extension of the handler's arm to reach up to the animals. He pushed the hook into the palm of his hand and used it to scratch behind his ear and said even if it might be painful to a human, elephants are much larger animals with thicker skin.
He did not deny that the bullhook sometimes punctures the animals' skin, but said if that is prevented by the Endangered Species Act than so would shots, surgery and other veterinary practices.
Simpson argued that the circus' elephant breeding is helping propagate the species and "may well be their best defense in the battle against extinction."
Feld Entertainment has 54 Asian elephants, 19 which travel and perform and 35 which live at the company's 200-acre conservatory in Florida. The newest, born a few minutes before Inauguration day, was named Barack after the new president and was the first conceived by artificial insemination.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29020334/ Click here to vote!
WHAT A DAY FOR A STATE FAIR TO OPEN!
Tampa, Florida--Current Conditions
Updated: Thursday, February 05, 11:53 am
Clear
46°F
46°F
Wind Chill:41°F
Humidity:25%
DELAWARE STATE FAIR NEWS (WBOC TV NEWS)
'Vocal Trash' Not Returning to Delaware State Fair
Reported by Cassandra Kramer 02/04/2009
HARRINGTON, Del. - The familiar sounds of the trash-can playing band, Vocal Trash, will not be heard at the Delaware State Fair this year. The unique group is not coming back. This has local fans furious.
Many locals have grown accustomed to hearing the group at the fair. Performing in the Free Entertainment tent for the past seven years, Vocal Trash have won a lot of fans.
"We feel that vocal trash is the fair," said Nancy Betts, a loyal fan. But this year, the unique group isn't coming.
"When I heard about it, I couldn't believe it because I was looking forward to seeing them in the middle of the year," said Elden Tunnell, another fan.
The Delaware State Fair says it was a difficult decision, but for economic reasons, Vocal Trash won't be performing. And local fans are devastated.
Even though their concerts were free, other fans say they would pay to see them play at the grandstand.
"If they had them live on stage, I'd pay to go see them because they're worth that," said Tunnell.
The Delaware State Fair says it did consider that, but it did not want to charge for a peformance that used to be free. Instead, the Free Entertainment tent will feature other performances, like a hypnotist and a youth talent showcase. But for fans like Betts, it won't be the same.
"We just need the fair people to know that in our hearts, we need Vocal Trash here in Delaware," said Betts.
She says she hopes, after this year, the Fair will change its mind and bring them back.
The Delaware State Fair is July 23rd through Aug. 1 this year, it also will celebrate it's 90th anniversary.
HARRINGTON, Del. - The familiar sounds of the trash-can playing band, Vocal Trash, will not be heard at the Delaware State Fair this year. The unique group is not coming back. This has local fans furious.
Many locals have grown accustomed to hearing the group at the fair. Performing in the Free Entertainment tent for the past seven years, Vocal Trash have won a lot of fans.
"We feel that vocal trash is the fair," said Nancy Betts, a loyal fan. But this year, the unique group isn't coming.
"When I heard about it, I couldn't believe it because I was looking forward to seeing them in the middle of the year," said Elden Tunnell, another fan.
The Delaware State Fair says it was a difficult decision, but for economic reasons, Vocal Trash won't be performing. And local fans are devastated.
Even though their concerts were free, other fans say they would pay to see them play at the grandstand.
"If they had them live on stage, I'd pay to go see them because they're worth that," said Tunnell.
The Delaware State Fair says it did consider that, but it did not want to charge for a peformance that used to be free. Instead, the Free Entertainment tent will feature other performances, like a hypnotist and a youth talent showcase. But for fans like Betts, it won't be the same.
"We just need the fair people to know that in our hearts, we need Vocal Trash here in Delaware," said Betts.
She says she hopes, after this year, the Fair will change its mind and bring them back.
The Delaware State Fair is July 23rd through Aug. 1 this year, it also will celebrate it's 90th anniversary.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
RINGLING TRIAL
The Ringling Animal abuse trial is scheduled to start today.
I have a link posted for trial news and updates in the LINKS section
on the sidebar.
Or use this one--
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
BILLY MARTIN'S COLE CIRCUS ALL STARS
MEDINA: Circus entertains with jugglers, animals and clownsBy Rikki CasonE-mail RikkiThe Journal-Register
MEDINA — With the month of January under way, it is time once again for an annual area favorite. The Billy Martin’s Cole All-Star Circus will return to entertain Medina on Friday at the Wise Middle School gym. This year, two 90-minute shows will be performed at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
“It’s the 21st annual,” Martin said of performing in Medina. “The show has gone over terrific this year — very very good.”
At this year’s show, audience members will get to see several new acts, including aerialists, the Valla Duo. Martin said that Batman will make a special appearance, and children can even get their picture taken with him.
According to Martin, back by popular demand is Slinko, a cirque-style variety act from Las Vegas and Brett Marshall, a BMX rider. Martin said that other acts will include jugglers, acrobats and unicyclists.
The circus will again benefit the Jade branch of TWIG Association. TWIG President Ellen Tynan said that each year, the circus brings an average $1,400 to benefit Medina Memorial Health Care Systems. Tynan said that this year’s funds will go to improve the North Wing of the hospital, which is where the nursing home is located.
“They have fun different acts,” said TWIG member Sue Phillips. “Each year, it’s always different. It’s fun and affordable.”
Tynan said that in the past, the circus has been held on some of the coldest nights of the year, so they have good attendance and the price makes it affordable for families. She also said that by holding two shows, everyone can be sure to get a good seat.
Besides the circus, Martin said that all of the fun, traditional favorite foods will be available. He also said the circus will again have the popular light-up toys. TWIG will be selling candy to raise extra money during the event.
The price for this year’s show is $12 for an adult ticket at the door. With every adult ticket purchased, children 12 years and younger are admitted free.
Martin said even with prices for things going up, he refused to raise ticket prices.
“I keep prices the same so families can come and be entertained,” Martin said.
Around Orleans County, the Cole All-Star Circus will also be performing at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 29 at the Albion High School gym. The show will benefit the Close-Up Government Club.
The All-Star Circus also will perform at 7 p.m. Jan. 30 at the Holley Intermediate School gym, benefiting the school’s National Honor Society. Tickets can be purchased at the school offices for $7 in advance or $12 at the door. Children 12 years and younger will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult.
Published: January 14, 2009
FROM THE TAMPA TRIBUNE--
Crews Prepping For Thursday's Opening Of State Fair
TBO.com
Published: February 3, 2009
TAMPA - It takes eight hours to brace, bolt and unfold the complicated extensions of the Landslide ride and workers today had just started in the chilly wind sweeping the midway at the Florida State Fairgrounds.
"We've got a long way to go," said Mike Huntsman of Gibsonton.
Nearby, James Johnson was much further along in the 11-hour job of setting up the swings for the Dream Machine ride, one of 90 at the fair.
"We're pretty much done. We came a week early to start," he said as he tightened bolts.
Across the midway, workers hustled to ready rides and games for Thursday's opening of the Florida State Fair and its dozen-day run.
The opening ceremony is set for 11 a.m. at the Bud Light Dome and it promises to be a day for warm clothing. The National Weather Service forecast calls for a temperature of 45 degrees at the opening, with a 10 mph wind making it feel like 40 degrees.
Along with the midway rides, games and food, the fair is adding several attractions this year, including a 9,000-gallon shark tank where a diver will swim with the sharks and provide facts and fiction about the creatures. Shows are at 1, 3 and 5 p.m. daily.
Also this year will be the debut of La Plaza Hispanic Village Cultural Expo. Open each day of the fair, it will have Spanish food, exhibits and entertainment.
Another new event is the Florida Ranch Rodeo at 2 and 7 p.m. Feb. 11 and 12, which will feature wild cow milking, stampede races and bronco riding.
And the Jack Russell terrier races will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday.
In addition to the new events, there will be the Elvis impersonator national finals with multiple shows Feb. 14 and 15 and the state roller derby championship from noon to 8 p.m. Feb. 16, the final day of the fair.
CLICK ON POST TITLE FOR FAIR INFORMATION
BARNES BROS CIRCUS 1953 #1 (FRED HOFFMAN)
These pictures are from a collection of Charles Kistler, Allentown,PA circus fanand submitted by Fred Hoffman.
We beleive that Barnes Bros that year was on World Of Mirth Carnival.
If you have any info on this one we'd like to hear from you.
Monday, February 2, 2009
HAGEN BROS CIRCUS-1950 #1 (FRED HOFFMAN)
Ticket Wagon
Light Plants
Most of these pictures were taken at West Hazelton, PA on
August 10, 1950 and Tamaqua, PA on August 12, 1950.
Hagen Bros was owned by Howard Seuze, I hope the spelling is correct.
He also owned Clyde Bros Circus, an indoor show that played mostly
Shrine Dates. That's why you'll notice the Clyde Bros lettered semi trailers.
They were taken by Circus Fan Charles Kistler from Allentown, PA.
Most of these pictures were taken at West Hazelton, PA onAugust 10, 1950 and Tamaqua, PA on August 12, 1950.
Hagen Bros was owned by Howard Seuze, I hope the spelling is correct.
He also owned Clyde Bros Circus, an indoor show that played mostly
Shrine Dates. That's why you'll notice the Clyde Bros lettered semi trailers.
They were taken by Circus Fan Charles Kistler from Allentown, PA.
