Veterans Day 2011 - Freedom Isn't Free
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Circus left lasting impression on Richmond IN residents
An example of an old circus train donated by William Grotendick is on display at the Wayne County Historical Museum. / Palladium-Item photo by Steve KogerNov. 9, 2011
Written by Palladium-Item
Editor's note: This recollection was written by Richmond resident William Grotendick, who recently donated a miniature circus train to the Wayne County Historical Museum.
This circus train is a replica of what the circus used in Richmond in the late 1940s and '50s.The train would come in down at the Penn Station and unload. It would be unhooked from the engine and a special ramp put up at the end. Bridges would span between the cars and each piece pulled or driven off.
A parade was formed up and with a band wagon, elephants, and trucks. There was the ticket wagon, power generator wagon, canvas wagon, water wagon and wooden bleacher wagon. They would go up Main Street to 23rd (Street) and turn south and go to the Athletic Park by Test school's field.The three main tent poles were set and the canvas spread on the ground around the poles. Block and tackle would be hooked up and the elephants would be used to pull up the canvas around the poles. Side tent poles would be then put all around. A stake driver machine would pound in the many stakes and side ropes secured. Wooden bleachers would be unfolded and set up. Folding wooden chairs were used as the more expensive seats. Wooden segments would be put down to form three rings around each main pole. Saw dust was then spread all over the bare ground. Overhead would be the trapeze and a large steel cage would be set up for the lion tamer to enter with a number of large cats.Along with the main tent, an animal menagerie was hooked to the main tent. As you came in, you could go straight to your seats, or pay a little more to see the animals. Cage wagons held the wild animals and the others were staked out.Outside the main tent was the side show where you could see unusual acts or freaks of nature. A barker would try and talk you into paying and come in and see the freaks. These might be the tallest man, fattest woman, bearded lady, wild man, fire eater, rubber man and dancing girls.To the side was the cook tent.
This circus train is a replica of what the circus used in Richmond in the late 1940s and '50s.The train would come in down at the Penn Station and unload. It would be unhooked from the engine and a special ramp put up at the end. Bridges would span between the cars and each piece pulled or driven off.
A parade was formed up and with a band wagon, elephants, and trucks. There was the ticket wagon, power generator wagon, canvas wagon, water wagon and wooden bleacher wagon. They would go up Main Street to 23rd (Street) and turn south and go to the Athletic Park by Test school's field.The three main tent poles were set and the canvas spread on the ground around the poles. Block and tackle would be hooked up and the elephants would be used to pull up the canvas around the poles. Side tent poles would be then put all around. A stake driver machine would pound in the many stakes and side ropes secured. Wooden bleachers would be unfolded and set up. Folding wooden chairs were used as the more expensive seats. Wooden segments would be put down to form three rings around each main pole. Saw dust was then spread all over the bare ground. Overhead would be the trapeze and a large steel cage would be set up for the lion tamer to enter with a number of large cats.Along with the main tent, an animal menagerie was hooked to the main tent. As you came in, you could go straight to your seats, or pay a little more to see the animals. Cage wagons held the wild animals and the others were staked out.Outside the main tent was the side show where you could see unusual acts or freaks of nature. A barker would try and talk you into paying and come in and see the freaks. These might be the tallest man, fattest woman, bearded lady, wild man, fire eater, rubber man and dancing girls.To the side was the cook tent.
Many performers had their own trailer that was pulled behind their own car.read more:http://www.pal-item.com/article/20111110/ENTERTAINMENT/111100319
Circus bosses charged with cruelty towards Europe's oldest elephant
from: www.mirror.co.uk
11/11/2011
Two circus owners have been charged with animal cruelty over alleged abuse of Europe’s oldest elephant.
Bobby and Moira Roberts, 68 and 72, are accused of causing unnecessary suffering to 59-year-old Asian elephant Anne.
Secretly filmed footage by charity Animal Defenders International appears to show Anne in chains being hit with a pitchfork by a former groom.
Advertisement >> Moira, of Polebrook, Northants, said yesterday the allegations had put the couple under “strain”.
She said: “It is frustrating. The groom fled the country. No one knows where he is.”
Anne now lives in a 13-acre paddock in Longleat Safari Park, Wilts. A park spokesman said: “She is very happy.”
The Roberts will appear in court on November 16.Read more: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2011/11/11/circus-bosses-charged-with-cruelty-towards-europe-s-oldest-elephant-115875-23553006/#ixzz1dOOO1Qk7
Bobby and Moira Roberts, 68 and 72, are accused of causing unnecessary suffering to 59-year-old Asian elephant Anne.
Secretly filmed footage by charity Animal Defenders International appears to show Anne in chains being hit with a pitchfork by a former groom.
Advertisement >> Moira, of Polebrook, Northants, said yesterday the allegations had put the couple under “strain”.
She said: “It is frustrating. The groom fled the country. No one knows where he is.”
Anne now lives in a 13-acre paddock in Longleat Safari Park, Wilts. A park spokesman said: “She is very happy.”
The Roberts will appear in court on November 16.Read more: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2011/11/11/circus-bosses-charged-with-cruelty-towards-europe-s-oldest-elephant-115875-23553006/#ixzz1dOOO1Qk7
Ringling Bros®: FULLY CHARGED
SM Music Video ringlingbros
Uploaded by ringling bros on Nov 10, 2011
It takes megawatts of thrills to power up this electrifying all-new edition of The Greatest Show On Earth! You've got to see how Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey gets you FULLY CHARGED with thrills and excitement and memories to last a lifetime!
Bill Irwin sees life after the circus
from: newsday.com
Published: November 10, 2011
See, Ma, you can turn out OK after running away with the circus. That's what actor-director Bill Irwin did, helping establish the Pickle Family Circus in San Francisco after graduating from Ringling Brothers' clown college in the 1970s. From there, he went on to create, direct and star in a series of Broadway shows ("Fool Moon," "Largely New York") where he barely uttered a sound but captivated audiences with his agile, athletic foppery. Someone decided the dude could actually speak onstage, and he began nabbing Broadway roles in "Waiting for Godot," "The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia?" and "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" (for which he earned a Tony Award for best actor in a play).
On-screen, he has popped up in "Rachel Getting Married" (as Anne Hathaway's gentle dad) and episodes of "CSI" (as a psychopath).
Oh, yeah, and along the way, he snapped up one of those MacArthur "genius" grants.
In the latest production of "King Lear," which opened Tuesday at the Public Theater and runs through Nov. 20, he's back to his rubber-limbed tricks, playing The Fool to Sam Waterston's Lear.
Irwin, who is married with one son, spoke with Newsday contributor Joseph V. Amodio about clowning, baggy pants and the dark secret of Waterston's "tight buns."read more:http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/celebrities/bill-irwin-sees-life-after-the-circus-1.3311681
On-screen, he has popped up in "Rachel Getting Married" (as Anne Hathaway's gentle dad) and episodes of "CSI" (as a psychopath).
Oh, yeah, and along the way, he snapped up one of those MacArthur "genius" grants.
In the latest production of "King Lear," which opened Tuesday at the Public Theater and runs through Nov. 20, he's back to his rubber-limbed tricks, playing The Fool to Sam Waterston's Lear.
Irwin, who is married with one son, spoke with Newsday contributor Joseph V. Amodio about clowning, baggy pants and the dark secret of Waterston's "tight buns."read more:http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/celebrities/bill-irwin-sees-life-after-the-circus-1.3311681
A new venue for part of the State FairThere will be events at Grandstand, but concerts will be down the road at Conseco
Written byDavid Lindquist
from: indystar.com
Nov. 10, 2011
The era of Indiana State Fair concerts presented under temporary stage rigging has ended.
Conseco Fieldhouse will host the fair's major music events in 2012, and the Indiana State Fair Commission is reviewing its options -- including a new permanent site for performances at the fairgrounds -- for 2013 and beyond.
"We believe Conseco Fieldhouse is the best alternative for this next year," said Andy Klotz, the fair's director of publicity and media relations. "We're still trying to figure out the long-term plan."
A deadly concert accident marred this year's fair. On Aug. 13, Grandstand stage rigging collapsed in high winds just before country-pop duo Sugarland was to perform. Seven people were killed and more than 40 were injured.
"We are going to have major headline entertainment next year, but it won't be in the Grandstand," Klotz said.
The 2012 fair is scheduled from Aug. 3 to Aug. 19. Klotz said "multiple shows" will be presented at Conseco Fieldhouse, adding that performers have yet to be booked.
Five miles separate the fairgrounds, 1202 E. 38th St., and the basketball arena, 125 S. Pennsylvania St.
Although the price of a concert ticket traditionally has included admission to the fair, the 2012 plan allows attendees to use concert tickets to attend any day of the fair -- not specifically the day of a concert.
For people who want to visit the fair and attend a concert on the same day, a free shuttle system likely will be in place, Klotz said.read more:http://www.indystar.com/article/20111111/LOCAL18/111110327/A-new-venue-will-used-part-2012-Indiana-State-Fair?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CIndyStar.com
Conseco Fieldhouse will host the fair's major music events in 2012, and the Indiana State Fair Commission is reviewing its options -- including a new permanent site for performances at the fairgrounds -- for 2013 and beyond.
"We believe Conseco Fieldhouse is the best alternative for this next year," said Andy Klotz, the fair's director of publicity and media relations. "We're still trying to figure out the long-term plan."
A deadly concert accident marred this year's fair. On Aug. 13, Grandstand stage rigging collapsed in high winds just before country-pop duo Sugarland was to perform. Seven people were killed and more than 40 were injured.
"We are going to have major headline entertainment next year, but it won't be in the Grandstand," Klotz said.
The 2012 fair is scheduled from Aug. 3 to Aug. 19. Klotz said "multiple shows" will be presented at Conseco Fieldhouse, adding that performers have yet to be booked.
Five miles separate the fairgrounds, 1202 E. 38th St., and the basketball arena, 125 S. Pennsylvania St.
Although the price of a concert ticket traditionally has included admission to the fair, the 2012 plan allows attendees to use concert tickets to attend any day of the fair -- not specifically the day of a concert.
For people who want to visit the fair and attend a concert on the same day, a free shuttle system likely will be in place, Klotz said.read more:http://www.indystar.com/article/20111111/LOCAL18/111110327/A-new-venue-will-used-part-2012-Indiana-State-Fair?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CIndyStar.com
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Circus lobby takes on animal-rights activists in Washington
'An elephant standing on its head is not a natural thing for it to do,' Dave Wenhold said. AP Photo
The Associated PressNovember 9, 2011By Abby PhillipRingling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey are launching a counterattack on Capitol Hill, where animal-rights activists, like Bob Barker, are pushing a bill that would ban the circus from featuring Asian elephants in their traveling shows.
The company sent “fans of the circus” an email on Wednesday encouraging them to tell their members of Congress not to support the measure. The email included a link to an electronic form on the Ringling website.
“Really, you could say this is a bill to put Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey out of business,” said Stephen Payne, vice president of corporate communications for Feld Entertainment, which produces the Ringling Bros. show. “I think regardless of where or how the bill is written or anything, it’s an attempt to outlaw circuses.”
The legislation is sponsored by Rep. Jim Moran, D-Va., and being pushed by two animal-rights groups, Animal Defenders International and the Performing Animal Welfare Society. They point to circus shows like Cirque du Soleil, which rely entirely on human performers, as the model for the way that Ringling and other productions that use animals can successfully give up the practice.
“We’re looking at a very narrow focus on the worst abuse of wild animals,” said Matt Rossell, campaign director for ADI. “The fact is traveling circuses, by virtue of the fact that they’re constantly moving, it’s impossible to meet the basic needs of these animals.”
Rossell said that the group expects more members, in addition to the original nine co-sponsors, to sign on to the bill in the coming weeks, including many from the 84-member Congressional Animal Protection Caucus.
Last week, flanked by celebrities like Barker of “The Price is Right” fame and Jorja Fox, known for her role as Sara Sidle on "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," Moran introduced the bill saying that it was a product of “mounting video and photographic evidence” showing that circuses can’t provide the “proper living conditions for these exotic animals.”
Dave Wenhold, a lobbyist for Animal Defenders International, said they’re getting traction.
“An elephant standing on its head is not a natural thing for it to do,” Wenhold said. “They may look at this [bill] and say there’s also a tie-in with what happened in Ohio.”
Ringling Bros., the most significant lobbying force on circus issues in Washington, has seen this movie before. A similar bill that would restrict the use of exotic animals in circuses was introduced, and defeated, in 1999. And circus animals are a constant target for animal protection groups like ADI and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, which is based in Norfolk.
So far this year, the company has spent $200,000 on lobbying in Washington through its in-house government affairs office and outside firms.
Payne declined to talk about the lobbying efforts Feld would mount in response to the bill, but he did say that the company takes the bill “very, very seriously.”
The Associated PressNovember 9, 2011By Abby PhillipRingling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey are launching a counterattack on Capitol Hill, where animal-rights activists, like Bob Barker, are pushing a bill that would ban the circus from featuring Asian elephants in their traveling shows.
The company sent “fans of the circus” an email on Wednesday encouraging them to tell their members of Congress not to support the measure. The email included a link to an electronic form on the Ringling website.
“Really, you could say this is a bill to put Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey out of business,” said Stephen Payne, vice president of corporate communications for Feld Entertainment, which produces the Ringling Bros. show. “I think regardless of where or how the bill is written or anything, it’s an attempt to outlaw circuses.”
The legislation is sponsored by Rep. Jim Moran, D-Va., and being pushed by two animal-rights groups, Animal Defenders International and the Performing Animal Welfare Society. They point to circus shows like Cirque du Soleil, which rely entirely on human performers, as the model for the way that Ringling and other productions that use animals can successfully give up the practice.
“We’re looking at a very narrow focus on the worst abuse of wild animals,” said Matt Rossell, campaign director for ADI. “The fact is traveling circuses, by virtue of the fact that they’re constantly moving, it’s impossible to meet the basic needs of these animals.”
Rossell said that the group expects more members, in addition to the original nine co-sponsors, to sign on to the bill in the coming weeks, including many from the 84-member Congressional Animal Protection Caucus.
Last week, flanked by celebrities like Barker of “The Price is Right” fame and Jorja Fox, known for her role as Sara Sidle on "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," Moran introduced the bill saying that it was a product of “mounting video and photographic evidence” showing that circuses can’t provide the “proper living conditions for these exotic animals.”
Dave Wenhold, a lobbyist for Animal Defenders International, said they’re getting traction.
“An elephant standing on its head is not a natural thing for it to do,” Wenhold said. “They may look at this [bill] and say there’s also a tie-in with what happened in Ohio.”
Ringling Bros., the most significant lobbying force on circus issues in Washington, has seen this movie before. A similar bill that would restrict the use of exotic animals in circuses was introduced, and defeated, in 1999. And circus animals are a constant target for animal protection groups like ADI and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, which is based in Norfolk.
So far this year, the company has spent $200,000 on lobbying in Washington through its in-house government affairs office and outside firms.
Payne declined to talk about the lobbying efforts Feld would mount in response to the bill, but he did say that the company takes the bill “very, very seriously.”
A Special Performance at Big Apple Circus
A visually impaired girl pets a four-legged performer following the Circus of the Senses performance at the Big Apple Circus on Wednesday. (Ivan Pentchoukov/The Epoch Times)By Ivan Pentchoukov Epoch Times Staff
November 9, 2011
NEW YORK—More than a thousand children with disabilities were treated to a unique performance at the Big Apple Circus at Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park on Wednesday. Sign language interpreters and live play-by-play announcements helped the children with hearing and vision impairments enjoy the show.
Spotlighted sign language interpreters helped those with hearing impairments. Meanwhile, Big Apple Circus founders Paul Binder and Michael Christensen narrated a play-by-play description to those with vision impairments.
“The first year we did it, it was only blind kids and then we realized that there is an underserved community of hearing impaired kids as well,” said Binder.
Spotlighted sign language interpreters helped those with hearing impairments. Meanwhile, Big Apple Circus founders Paul Binder and Michael Christensen narrated a play-by-play description to those with vision impairments.
“The first year we did it, it was only blind kids and then we realized that there is an underserved community of hearing impaired kids as well,” said Binder.
A canine performer poses for a photo during a “touch session” for hearing and visually impaired children at the Big Apple Circus on Wednesday. (Ivan Pentchoukov/The Epoch Times)
Binder and Christensen paint a lively picture of the performance with their announcements, which are broadcast to headsets for children with vision impairments. The founders, who have been doing the play-by-plays for years, learned a few tricks to keep the children engaged. They call out the climax of each performance a second or so in advance, so those that can’t see can clap in unison with the rest of the crowd.
“Usually we don’t like the audio descriptions on other things, but we like it for this [performance] here,” said, Yokasta Urena, 32, who was attending the show for the third time with her daughter Aolani, 8. Both mother and daughter are visually impaired.
Aolani said she liked the trapeze act best.
This year’s performance is the 24th installment of Circus of the Senses. Children with disabilities are treated to the show for free.
Barry Lubin, who plays the comical character named Grandma in the show, has been with the circus for 25 years.
A visually impaired girl feels the leather strap of a horse costume during a special “touch session” in the ring of the Big Apple Circus on Nov. 9. (Ivan Pentchoukov/The Epoch Times)What’s unique to this situation is that not only do we get to entertain these people, but also we get to meet a lot of them,” said Lubin.
Following the performance, children were invited into the ring for a special “touch session.” They felt the performance costumes, petted the animals, shook hands with the acrobats, and spoke with the performers.
“It’s great to see all the children’s reactions to the overall performance. It’s pretty special to see how they respond,” said Martha Lord, executive director of the Big Apple Circus.The Big Apple Circus was founded as a nonprofit performing arts and outreach institution. In addition to Circus for the Senses it offers Clown Care, a program that has clowns visit children in local hospitals. Another program, Vaudeville Caravan, brings the circus to the elderly in Montrose, N.Y., and Chicago, Ill.
Ag. board votes to keep elephant rides at San Diego County Fair
By Joe Tashfrom: delmartimes.net
Nov 8. 2011
Elephant rides will continue to operate at the San Diego County Fair for at least three more years under a split vote by the fair board at its meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 8, in spite of a request by animal rights groups to ban the popular fairgrounds attraction.
The board of directors of the 22nd District Agricultural Association, which oversees operations at the state-owned Del Mar Fairgrounds, listened to more than two hours of testimony by supporters and opponents of the elephant rides before voting 4-3 to reconsider the issue following the 2014 run of the fair.
Board members Adam Day, Russ Penniman, Lisa Barkett and Frederick Schenk voted to keep the elephant rides for three more years, while directors Tom Chino, David Watson and David Lizerbram voted against the motion. Director Ruben Barrales was absent.
The issue arose in June, when a representative of the group Animal Defenders International addressed the board, asking for the elephant rides to be banned from the fair. The group presented a video, which it said was shot undercover at the Riverside County compound of Have Trunk Will Travel, the company that has run the fair’s elephant rides for 27 years. The group said the video showed trainers at Have Trunk Will Travel abusing elephants by striking them with a training tool called a “bull hook,” and shocking them with an electrical device.read more at:http://www.delmartimes.net/2011/11/09/ag-board-votes-to-keep-elephant-rides-san-diego-county-fair/
The board of directors of the 22nd District Agricultural Association, which oversees operations at the state-owned Del Mar Fairgrounds, listened to more than two hours of testimony by supporters and opponents of the elephant rides before voting 4-3 to reconsider the issue following the 2014 run of the fair.
Board members Adam Day, Russ Penniman, Lisa Barkett and Frederick Schenk voted to keep the elephant rides for three more years, while directors Tom Chino, David Watson and David Lizerbram voted against the motion. Director Ruben Barrales was absent.
The issue arose in June, when a representative of the group Animal Defenders International addressed the board, asking for the elephant rides to be banned from the fair. The group presented a video, which it said was shot undercover at the Riverside County compound of Have Trunk Will Travel, the company that has run the fair’s elephant rides for 27 years. The group said the video showed trainers at Have Trunk Will Travel abusing elephants by striking them with a training tool called a “bull hook,” and shocking them with an electrical device.read more at:http://www.delmartimes.net/2011/11/09/ag-board-votes-to-keep-elephant-rides-san-diego-county-fair/
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Life in the circus a dream for Elgin man
Kyle Barker puts on makeup before the Ringling Brothers Circus at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont on Friday. Andrew A. Nelles~For Sun-Times Media Updated: November 9, 2011 2:30AM
Kyle Barker says that the last two years of his life have been an amazing ride — and in his case, you can take him quite literally.
In November 2009, Barker packed his bags in Streamwood headed to the Allstate Arena in Rosemont. After performing his first shows as a clown with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, he hit the road with the troupe, travelling across the continent and living out of a train to entertain millions in the process.
“We’ve probably played for about 8 million people in about 76 cities,” Barker said.
He currently is back in the area with the Red Tour production, “Fully Charged.” The show plays Allstate through Sunday, then rolls along to the United Center in Chicago from Nov. 16 through Nov. 27.
Barker, 29, recently had his contract renewed for another season. He’s so enjoyed the work that he’s learning about various aspects of The Greatest Show on Earth — from public relations to chaining in equipment to be taken to the next stop — in the hopes of making the circus a lifelong career.
“This has been a great way to see what the world has to offer,” he said.READ MORE:http://couriernews.suntimes.com/news/8667395-418/life-in-the-circus-a-dream-for-elgin-man.html
Kyle Barker says that the last two years of his life have been an amazing ride — and in his case, you can take him quite literally.
In November 2009, Barker packed his bags in Streamwood headed to the Allstate Arena in Rosemont. After performing his first shows as a clown with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, he hit the road with the troupe, travelling across the continent and living out of a train to entertain millions in the process.
“We’ve probably played for about 8 million people in about 76 cities,” Barker said.
He currently is back in the area with the Red Tour production, “Fully Charged.” The show plays Allstate through Sunday, then rolls along to the United Center in Chicago from Nov. 16 through Nov. 27.
Barker, 29, recently had his contract renewed for another season. He’s so enjoyed the work that he’s learning about various aspects of The Greatest Show on Earth — from public relations to chaining in equipment to be taken to the next stop — in the hopes of making the circus a lifelong career.
“This has been a great way to see what the world has to offer,” he said.READ MORE:http://couriernews.suntimes.com/news/8667395-418/life-in-the-circus-a-dream-for-elgin-man.html
Mixing magic, comedy
Circus background launched Chipper Lowell's career
Comedian and magician Chipper Lowell will give two performances Nov. 12 at the Civic Centre in downtown Manitowoc. / SubmittedWritten bySuzanne Weiss, Herald Times Reporter
MANITOWOC — Growing up, Chipper Lowell became acquainted with his neighbors in an unusual fashion.
They called police because they thought his mother was committing suicide in the backyard of their home, he recalled in a recent phone interview from Los Angeles, where he lives.
Lowell, you see, was born into a circus family. His father was a professional clown with Ringling Bros. during the 1950s, while his mother performed aerial acts such as Iron Jaw, where she suspended herself several stories above the crowd holding on only by her teeth.
“Whenever we were off the road, we had an A-frame aerial rigging in the backyard and my mother would go out and hang by her teeth every day to strengthen her neck and jaw and shoulder muscles,” Lowell said. “One day the neighbors called the police because they thought my mother was hanging herself. That’s how we became friends with all the neighbors.”
The energetic redhead will present “The Chipper Experience: Where Comedy and Magic Collide!” at 3 and 7 p.m. Nov. 12 at the Capitol Civic Centre, 913 S. Eighth St. This is the second of four events in the Capitol’s Family Series, which is geared to all ages.READ MORE:http://manitowochub.htrnews.com/article/20111103/MAN05/111107026/1358/MAN0101/Circus-background-launched-Chipper-Lowell-s-career?odyssey=nav%7Chead
They called police because they thought his mother was committing suicide in the backyard of their home, he recalled in a recent phone interview from Los Angeles, where he lives.
Lowell, you see, was born into a circus family. His father was a professional clown with Ringling Bros. during the 1950s, while his mother performed aerial acts such as Iron Jaw, where she suspended herself several stories above the crowd holding on only by her teeth.
“Whenever we were off the road, we had an A-frame aerial rigging in the backyard and my mother would go out and hang by her teeth every day to strengthen her neck and jaw and shoulder muscles,” Lowell said. “One day the neighbors called the police because they thought my mother was hanging herself. That’s how we became friends with all the neighbors.”
The energetic redhead will present “The Chipper Experience: Where Comedy and Magic Collide!” at 3 and 7 p.m. Nov. 12 at the Capitol Civic Centre, 913 S. Eighth St. This is the second of four events in the Capitol’s Family Series, which is geared to all ages.READ MORE:http://manitowochub.htrnews.com/article/20111103/MAN05/111107026/1358/MAN0101/Circus-background-launched-Chipper-Lowell-s-career?odyssey=nav%7Chead
UniverSoul Circus, GCS Clown For Book Donations
Written by WFMY News 2 Nov 8, 2011
High Point, NC-- Some students and staff got to clown around Tuesday morning, but the fun was really about learning.
The UniverSoul Circus and Guilford County Schools (GCS) are encouraging circus-goers to bring books when attending the UniverSoul Circus.
The circus is at the Greensboro Coliseum, starting on November 9-13.All books will be donated to the Two Million Books campaign, which is part of the district's literacy initiative outlined in the strategic plan. In 2010, GCS challenged students to read one million books to raise awareness about the importance of literacy. GCS students exceeded this goal and read 1,973,262 books during the year. For 2011, the next challenge in the district's literacy initiative was for students to read two million books and for the community to donate one million books to schools this year.
"We are excited that the UniverSoul Circus recognizes the importance of literacy in our community and is partnering with us to support the Two Million Books campaign," said Lisa Gardner, coordinator of Guilford Parent Academy, Partnerships & Community Relations for GCS.
In addition to the book drive, 7.5 percent of group ticket sales will be donated to Two Million Books. The UniverSoul Circus also donated 250 tickets to students at Allen Jay Elementary, and held a special sneak peak for Fairview Elementary students Tuesday.
UniverSoul Circus is a combination of circus arts, theater and music that spans genres including Pop, Classic R&B, Latin, Hip Hop, Jazz and Gospel.
Guilford County Schools
Cole Bros. Circus of the Stars
Mon, November 21, 2011
Cole Bros. Circus of the Stars will appear in Cape Coral Monday, Nov. 21, through Wednesday, Nov. 23, hosted by city of Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department, and in Bonita Springs on Thursday, Nov. 24, through Sunday, Nov. 27.
The all new, 2011 edition of the “World’s Largest Circus, Under the Big Top,” continues the tradition of entertaining American families for more than a century. Advance tickets are on sale at Pets Universe, 4506 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral City Hall and the Cape Coral Youth Center at Four Freedoms Park.
You can also purchase tickets at tickets.com or by calling 1-800-332-5200.
The circus will set up at 609 Pine Island Road, across from Dollar General.
For information, call 1-800-796-5672 or visit GoToTheCircus.com
BILL PRICKETT REVISITS
THE CIRCUS ALL OF FAME
PERU, INDIANA
PART II
Metal Wagon in graveyard.
Mary Kay Dunwoody & Tom Dunwoody, Tom is CHF President and
these two are among the driving forces behind saving the CHF site & buildings.
John Fugate, RM, 1994
Another of the driving forces & current grant winner.
Part of the Tom Dunwoody display model in north barn
Eighth of an inch model of the 1994 Hagernbeck-Wallace Circus
Another view of Tom Dunwoody circus model display.
Display of American Circus Corp structure
Harold Ronk display
Hoxie Tucker Display
The Museum is open May 1 thru Oct 31, usually 12 noon to 4 pm.
Earlier by arrangements.
In the summer they feature a live circus performance several times
a day over a certain two week period in July.
I have visited this museum three times and have taken over 100 photos
of the wagons, displays, and circus performances.
I am looking to returning in July of 2012 to visit again
and also to see the Circus Parade held in the town of Peru, Indiana
and hopefully attend the banquet for inductees into
next year's Circus Hall of Fame.
Visit http://www.circushof.com/ for more information.
Bill Prickett
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Roger Williams for Congress - The Donkey Whisperer
Uploaded by RogerWilliamsTX on Aug 21, 2011
http://rogerforcongress.com
Roger Williams, a congressional candidate from Texas recorded this great ad. Democrats don't like it and tried to have it removed from the Texas TV station serving that congressional district. They claim it is demeaning?
Mayor, as ringmaster, declares 'Barnum Day'
Andre McClain, left, greets Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and his three-year-old son Cooper before the start of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus.Saturday, November 05, 2011
By Len Barcousky, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Events like the circus show the wisdom of constructing buildings like the Consol Energy Center, Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said this morning.
Mayor Ravenstahl made the remark before he opened the 11 a.m. performance of Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus as guest ringmaster.
Accompanied by his three-year-old son, Cooper, Mr. Ravenstahl, standing under a spotlight in the middle of the circus ring, declared Nov. 5 to be "Barnum 200 Day" in Pittsburgh. The traveling show is marking the 200th birthday of one of its founders, P.T. Barnum.
The two-year-old Consol Energy Center is home to the Pittsburgh Penguins. "But events like this, which draw so many families, show that this building is about a lot more than hockey," he said before the morning performance.
The mayor said he had memories of attending circuses with his family when he was a boy growing up in Pittsburgh. "It was exciting then, and it's still great to see all the animals and performers," he said. "I think Cooper, though, is a little scared of the clowns."
When the mayor walked out into the spotlight to be greeted by circus host Andre McClain, Cooper appeared to have gotten over his shyness. The youngster ran in small circles around them while the two men chatted.
Events like the circus show the wisdom of constructing buildings like the Consol Energy Center, Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said this morning.
Mayor Ravenstahl made the remark before he opened the 11 a.m. performance of Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus as guest ringmaster.
Accompanied by his three-year-old son, Cooper, Mr. Ravenstahl, standing under a spotlight in the middle of the circus ring, declared Nov. 5 to be "Barnum 200 Day" in Pittsburgh. The traveling show is marking the 200th birthday of one of its founders, P.T. Barnum.
The two-year-old Consol Energy Center is home to the Pittsburgh Penguins. "But events like this, which draw so many families, show that this building is about a lot more than hockey," he said before the morning performance.
The mayor said he had memories of attending circuses with his family when he was a boy growing up in Pittsburgh. "It was exciting then, and it's still great to see all the animals and performers," he said. "I think Cooper, though, is a little scared of the clowns."
When the mayor walked out into the spotlight to be greeted by circus host Andre McClain, Cooper appeared to have gotten over his shyness. The youngster ran in small circles around them while the two men chatted.
Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, left, is made honorary ringmaster by Andre McClain, center. Mr. Ravenstahl's three-year-old son Cooper watches.
Mr. Ravenstahl said he was pleased to see the Golden Triangle looking so busy on a Saturday morning with people coming into town for the Ringling Brothers performances.The mayor was asked if being a circus ringmaster was anything like dealing with Pittsburgh's often fractious city council. He declined to comment.The circus will do its final performances at 3 and 7 p.m. today and at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday.Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11309/1187838-100.stm#ixzz1csKscd12
26th Annual Punkin Chunkin Rockets Back Into Bridgeville
from WMDT TV, Salisbury, MDNov 04, 2011
By Julia Heller
26th Annual Punkin ChunkinBRIDGEVILLE, Del. - The rockets are firing and the pumpkins are flying - which can only mean one thing for the shore. Punkin Chunkin is back!
The 26th annual event kicked off Friday. Dozens of teams from all over come to Delaware to see whose man-made cannon or catapult can hurl pumpkins the farthest. It all wraps up on Sunday - so be sure to head out to see those pumpkins soar!
The 26th annual event kicked off Friday. Dozens of teams from all over come to Delaware to see whose man-made cannon or catapult can hurl pumpkins the farthest. It all wraps up on Sunday - so be sure to head out to see those pumpkins soar!
Far-out fare at the Volusia County Fair
By CHRIS GRAHAM, Staff writer
November 6, 2011
DELAND -- Diane Orme slapped a beef patty on the grill and added some cheese and two slices of bacon for flavor.
A few minutes later she added the finishing touch -- two Krispy Kreme doughnuts?
"It's just perfect," Orme said as she served up the creation in a Krispy Kreme paper hat.
The Volusia County Fair was in full swing this weekend as rides whirled the people who dared to get on them. But nearby dozens of vendors stole the show, satisfying the palates of the masses.
Many of the vendors served up conventional fair food, but some broke culinary barriers.
Orme, whose family owns Carousel Foods Inc., had some of the most innovative creations offered at the fair this year including the garbage burger (loaded like you've never seen), the French toast burger and the ice cream burger with pickles (recommended for pregnant women). But the real showstopper is the Krispy Kreme doughnutburger -- made famous by the late American singer-songwriter Luther Vandross.
A few minutes later she added the finishing touch -- two Krispy Kreme doughnuts?
"It's just perfect," Orme said as she served up the creation in a Krispy Kreme paper hat.
The Volusia County Fair was in full swing this weekend as rides whirled the people who dared to get on them. But nearby dozens of vendors stole the show, satisfying the palates of the masses.
Many of the vendors served up conventional fair food, but some broke culinary barriers.
Orme, whose family owns Carousel Foods Inc., had some of the most innovative creations offered at the fair this year including the garbage burger (loaded like you've never seen), the French toast burger and the ice cream burger with pickles (recommended for pregnant women). But the real showstopper is the Krispy Kreme doughnutburger -- made famous by the late American singer-songwriter Luther Vandross.
A Krispy Kreme bacon cheese burger fresh off the grill at the Carousel Food booth at the Volusia County Fair. (N-J Peter Bauer)The Ormes first rolled out their patented concoction at the 2009 Florida State Fair in Tampa.
"It's been going strong ever since," Orme said. "It's our top seller. People like it because it's not something you can get every day."
The gooey burger comes made to order and the sweetness of the glazed Krispy Kreme doughnuts is complimented well by the grilled, juicy, beef patty.
For true connoisseurs, lettuce, tomato and onion as well as condiments are available. The burger packs about 1,000 calories, Orme said.
"When you look at it, it's not that bad," she said, noting a jumbo smoked turkey leg is about 1,700 calories. "Who watches calories at the fair anyway?"
Well in that case, if your arteries aren't clogged after polishing off the burger, people can swing to the next vendor where Chris Tisher and crew deep-fry almost any sweet treat imaginable -- even cherry Kool-Aid.
Fried Kool-Aid dough is sprinkled with sugar at Ormes Deep Fried Creations at the Volusia County Fair. (N-J Peter Bauer) Tisher, from Louisville, Ky., said the trick is to freeze the Kool-Aid, roll it in funnel cake dough and throw in the deep fryer. He tops off the tasty treat with powdered sugar.
"It comes out like a cherry cake," he said. "Everything is warm and gooey in the center."
While vendors like Orme and Tisher offered innovative creations, several people opted for fair staples. The smell of funnel cake and polish sausage wafted in the air, drawing people like moths.
Justin and Kenna Norell of Sanford said they just couldn't resist.
"We just got here about 10 minutes ago," said Kenna Norell of Sanford as she sat at a picnic table and chomped on a Philly cheese steak sandwich and some Saratoga chips -- which are chips covered in bacon, cheese and chives.
A heaping pile of Saratoga chips, a combination of homemade and fried potatoes smothered with cheese, at the Volusia County Fair. (N-J Peter Bauer)
"She just can't get enough of it," said Justin Norell. He and his wife were making their first trip to the fair. "We'll probably be looking for something else in about 30 minutes."
Fair veteran Tom Mueller of Deltona was quick to grab a bucket of salty, vinegary fries from Fiske French Fries.
"It's the first and last place I go," said Mueller, who has been coming to the fair with his family for the past 20 years.
For most of the fair food vendors, this is the last stop of the year before packing up to recharge.
Orme said the break gives people time to think of new ideas for the next year's round of fairs.
"We've tried a Mac n' cheese burger and a mashed potato burger," Orme said. "But who knows what we'll think of next."
"It comes out like a cherry cake," he said. "Everything is warm and gooey in the center."
While vendors like Orme and Tisher offered innovative creations, several people opted for fair staples. The smell of funnel cake and polish sausage wafted in the air, drawing people like moths.
Justin and Kenna Norell of Sanford said they just couldn't resist.
"We just got here about 10 minutes ago," said Kenna Norell of Sanford as she sat at a picnic table and chomped on a Philly cheese steak sandwich and some Saratoga chips -- which are chips covered in bacon, cheese and chives.
A heaping pile of Saratoga chips, a combination of homemade and fried potatoes smothered with cheese, at the Volusia County Fair. (N-J Peter Bauer)"She just can't get enough of it," said Justin Norell. He and his wife were making their first trip to the fair. "We'll probably be looking for something else in about 30 minutes."
Fair veteran Tom Mueller of Deltona was quick to grab a bucket of salty, vinegary fries from Fiske French Fries.
"It's the first and last place I go," said Mueller, who has been coming to the fair with his family for the past 20 years.
For most of the fair food vendors, this is the last stop of the year before packing up to recharge.
Orme said the break gives people time to think of new ideas for the next year's round of fairs.
"We've tried a Mac n' cheese burger and a mashed potato burger," Orme said. "But who knows what we'll think of next."
NGOs move court against Jumbo circus
Nov 6, 2011
PANIPAT: Trouble for owners of Jumbo Circus, who had been hogging limelight for all the wrong reasons, is far from over as the court of CJM has admitted a petition against them by representatives of International Organisation for Animal Protection (OPIA), an NGO associated with UN department of information, and Haryana People for Animals, for cruelty against animals.
The Indian representative of the NGO, Naresh Kadyan, who moved the court on Saturday, said that the animals being used for performance purposes by the circus were being kept in pathetic conditions, without proper food and shelter and were even denied medical care as a full time veterinarian, mandatory under the performance rules, had not been appointed by the circus.
The petition stated that owners of the circus transported the animals from Rajasthan to Panipat via Rohtak without proper documentation and certificates of fitness as required by Transport of Animals Rules 2001 under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960 and the Cattle Transport Rules of 1978, as amended in 2001.
The petitioners also accused the circus owners of using some exotic species of animals and birds that were covered under the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species ( CITES).
As per official documents, (copies of which are in possession of TOI), the circus had registered eight elephants, 13 Horses, 36 dogs, one hippo, 15 parrots, three camels, one pelican, two donkeys, one goat, two turkeys, eight Persian cats and one emu with the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). However, Kadyan said that all these animals were not with the circus which was again a violation of the rules.
The court of CJM, after listening to the petitioner's counsel, admitted the petition and fixed November 8 as the next date of hearing.
Meanwhile, AWBI has already constituted a two-member panel to inspect the animals being used by Jumbo Circus, following allegation that the animals at the circus were being subjected to cruelty and a blind hippo was being used during performances. The Haryana chief wildlife warden had also denied permission to the circus to hold shows in Panipat unless it discontinued the use of blind Hippo, named Raja, for performance.
The Indian representative of the NGO, Naresh Kadyan, who moved the court on Saturday, said that the animals being used for performance purposes by the circus were being kept in pathetic conditions, without proper food and shelter and were even denied medical care as a full time veterinarian, mandatory under the performance rules, had not been appointed by the circus.
The petition stated that owners of the circus transported the animals from Rajasthan to Panipat via Rohtak without proper documentation and certificates of fitness as required by Transport of Animals Rules 2001 under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960 and the Cattle Transport Rules of 1978, as amended in 2001.
The petitioners also accused the circus owners of using some exotic species of animals and birds that were covered under the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species ( CITES).
As per official documents, (copies of which are in possession of TOI), the circus had registered eight elephants, 13 Horses, 36 dogs, one hippo, 15 parrots, three camels, one pelican, two donkeys, one goat, two turkeys, eight Persian cats and one emu with the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). However, Kadyan said that all these animals were not with the circus which was again a violation of the rules.
The court of CJM, after listening to the petitioner's counsel, admitted the petition and fixed November 8 as the next date of hearing.
Meanwhile, AWBI has already constituted a two-member panel to inspect the animals being used by Jumbo Circus, following allegation that the animals at the circus were being subjected to cruelty and a blind hippo was being used during performances. The Haryana chief wildlife warden had also denied permission to the circus to hold shows in Panipat unless it discontinued the use of blind Hippo, named Raja, for performance.
PAWS part of cause to end cruelty to circus animals
By News-Sentinel Staff ,
Lodinews.com
Saturday, November 5, 2011
PAWS part of cause to end cruelty to circus animals By News-Sentinel Staff Lodinews.com 0 comments
Ed Stewart, of the Galt-based Performing Animal Welfare Society, was on Capitol Hill this week to launch a bill aimed at changing how animals are used in the name of entertainment in America. He was joined by renowned celebrity animal protectionist Bob Barker, actress Jorja Fox and representatives of Animal Defenders International.The Traveling Exotic Animal Protection Act is a historic first for the U.S., according to a press release.
The bill aims to restrict the use of exotic and wild animals in traveling circuses, effectively bringing to an end the random cruelty and neglect associated with some circuses of this nature.
"Americans are becoming increasingly aware that circus animals suffer from violent training techniques and severe confinement," Barker said in a prepared statement.
"Big, wild animals should not be part of the traveling circus and, simply put, animal acts in circuses are antiquated and belong in the past, in a time when humans were ignorant about the needs of the other species who share our planet."
Large animals like lions and tigers spend their lives cramped in small cages, and elephants are forced to live chained by one or more legs for hours on end. In addition, traveling circuses pose a serious threat to public safety, as the keeping of wild, stressed animals in dangerously close proximity to the public is a recipe for disaster, according to PAWS.
The organization provides a sanctuary in San Andreas for large animals such as African elephants.
PAWS part of cause to end cruelty to circus animals By News-Sentinel Staff Lodinews.com 0 comments
Ed Stewart, of the Galt-based Performing Animal Welfare Society, was on Capitol Hill this week to launch a bill aimed at changing how animals are used in the name of entertainment in America. He was joined by renowned celebrity animal protectionist Bob Barker, actress Jorja Fox and representatives of Animal Defenders International.The Traveling Exotic Animal Protection Act is a historic first for the U.S., according to a press release.
The bill aims to restrict the use of exotic and wild animals in traveling circuses, effectively bringing to an end the random cruelty and neglect associated with some circuses of this nature.
"Americans are becoming increasingly aware that circus animals suffer from violent training techniques and severe confinement," Barker said in a prepared statement.
"Big, wild animals should not be part of the traveling circus and, simply put, animal acts in circuses are antiquated and belong in the past, in a time when humans were ignorant about the needs of the other species who share our planet."
Large animals like lions and tigers spend their lives cramped in small cages, and elephants are forced to live chained by one or more legs for hours on end. In addition, traveling circuses pose a serious threat to public safety, as the keeping of wild, stressed animals in dangerously close proximity to the public is a recipe for disaster, according to PAWS.
The organization provides a sanctuary in San Andreas for large animals such as African elephants.
Circus Doc Narrated by Lexingtonian Clown Screening This Afternoon 'Circus Dreams,'
a documentary on a year in the life teens traveling with Circus Smirkus narrated by Joy Powers, a professional clown from Lexington, is screening today at Watertown's Arsenal Center for the Arts as part of Belmont World Film's Family Fest
Clowns from Circus Dreams, Credit Rebecca Richards By Patrick Ball
Lexington, MA Patch
November 5, 2011
If any circus fans out there are still looking for something to do this afternoon, “Circus Dreams,” a documentary following a year in the life of the traveling teen peformers of Circus Smirkus, is screening at 4 p.m. over at Watertown’s Arsenal Center for the Arts as part of Belmont’s World Film’s annual Family Festival.
The film may also be attractive to some for its local connection, according to Rebecca Richards, director of the Family Festival, who noted Lexington native and Waldorf School alumn Joy Powers is a central character and narrator of Circus Dreams.
“It’s exciting to note that [Powers is] currently touring with Ringling Bros. for the second time as a professional clown, a long held dream of hers,” Richards told Lexington Patch.
The screening today of Circus Dreams will be preceded by a live performance by members of Circus Smirkus, according to Belmont Patch’s preview of this year’s Family Festival, which is called ““A Cinematic Kaleidoscope of Cats, Characters and Circus Dreams.”
The film may also be attractive to some for its local connection, according to Rebecca Richards, director of the Family Festival, who noted Lexington native and Waldorf School alumn Joy Powers is a central character and narrator of Circus Dreams.
“It’s exciting to note that [Powers is] currently touring with Ringling Bros. for the second time as a professional clown, a long held dream of hers,” Richards told Lexington Patch.
The screening today of Circus Dreams will be preceded by a live performance by members of Circus Smirkus, according to Belmont Patch’s preview of this year’s Family Festival, which is called ““A Cinematic Kaleidoscope of Cats, Characters and Circus Dreams.”
BILL PRICKETT RETURNS TO
CIRCUS HALL OF FAME--PERU, INDIANA
PART 1
Wallace Farm, circa 1924
On August 20, 2011 I was able to visit the International Hall Of
Circus Fame, located about 3 miles noutside of Peru, Indiana on what is known as
the Wallace Farm. The American Circus Corp. originally owned
600 acres. The CHF now sits on 10 acres of this farm land that was able
to be saved. ACC owned Hagenbeck-Wallace, John Robinson, Sells-Floto
and Howes Great London shows plus several others.
Big Top acquired from Big Apple Circus in 1996.
John Ringling purchased the entire ACC, including the Peru winterquarters.
"The great burning of the circus wagons" took place in November 1941 at this site.
North Barn Gift Shop
In July 1988 it was dedicated as a National Historic Landmark.
A complete history and summary of exhibits can be obtained from the CHF.
This is a must see visit for all circus fans!
Elelphant and Cat Barn
Wagon Storage, side of elephant barn.
The other side of elephant barn.
Mack Truck from RBBB
Some of the restored wagons inside.
More retored wagons.
Tunnel wagon from RBBB