THIS BLOG IS DEDICATED TO MY TWIN BROTHER, BILL DYKES (1943-1995). WE WERE NOT ONLY BROTHERS BUT PARTNERS IN BUSINESS AND BEST FRIENDS! AND TO ALL THE "BUTCHERS" THAT HAVE PASSED ON TO THE BIG LOT IN THE SKY!


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Friday, March 28, 2014

Flying Trapeze''Heroes''-Circus''Hermanos Vazquez''Donna,Texas,



BogdanovStas
Published on Mar 15, 2014
Flying Trapeze''Heroes''-Circus''Hermanos Vazquez''Donna,Texas,USA 14.03.2014
Baby Gorilla Reunites With Mother



ABC News
Published on Mar 23, 2014
After an emergency C-section, a baby gorilla reunites with mother in San Diego Zoo.
Bristol Old Vic collaborates with the Invisible Circus on Under The Dark Moon


Under The Dark Moon, a collaboration between the Bristol Old Vic and the Invisible Circus, comes to the city this week
From: bristolpost.co.uk
By Venue
March 28, 2014
They may be used to high-flying acrobatics, but The Invisible Circus is taking a bold leap into the unknown with Bristol Old Vic.

In the first collaboration of its kind, Bristol Old Vic is helping the ground-breaking and popular Bristol company, The Invisible Circus transform their successful circus show Under The Dark Moon into a full-scale touring theatre production.

Based in Bristol since 2002, the Invisible Circus draws much of its approach from its history as a troupe of travelling street performers and has grown to produce unique circus theatre in a variety of unusual locations.

As the company has developed and evolved, it has attracted more and more creative impetus, drawing a diverse range of visual artists, performers, actors, directors, dancers, filmmakers, choreographers, musicians and technicians to collaborate on its productions.

Its most recent production, Under The Dark Moon at Creative Common's inaugural Bristol Circus Festival last year, was a bold statement of intent which was rewarded with a sell-out run.

The show took inspiration from the dreams and fears of its artists, creating a performance that drew on the darker side of fairy tales and twisted the idea of a circus freak show.

Mixing spectacular circus techniques, eerie old movie footage and a live musical score, the hauntingly beautiful and technically impressive show received phenomenal reactions and outstanding reviews.

Now, with close support from Bristol Old Vic's artistic director Tom Morris and the technical team at Bristol Old Vic, they plan to raise the theatricality and scope of their performances even higher.

Doug Francis, director of The Invisible Circus, said: "Under The Dark Moon was previously created in three weeks on a shoestring budget.

"It ran over five nights in 2013 to a sell-out crowd and had a phenomenal response, but we knew there was a lot more we could do with the show.

"With the support of Bristol Old Vic we have the opportunity to work with internationally respected directors and producers to create a brilliant show."

Moving from big top to theatre stage, The Invisible Circus will perform the re-vamped Under The Dark Moon in the Bristol Old Vic's Main Theatre for three nights next week, before a UK tour.

Tom Morris, artistic director of Bristol Old Vic, said: "This extraordinary company employ a huge range of industrious and creative artists to produce imaginative work that is unlike anything else on the Bristol scene.
Read more: http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/Circus-thrills-big-theatre-stage/story-20877149-detail/story.html#ixzz2xH2gZNTa


'Circus of the Kids,' Comes to Savannah
From: wsav.com
By Liz Buckthorpe
Mar 27, 2014



read more:
http://www.wsav.com/story/25087742/circus-of-the-kids-comes-to-savannah
Jail for circus trainer over leopard attack

from: http://thepeninsulaqatar.com/
March 28, 2014 
DOHA: A criminal court yesterday sentenced a woman animal trainer of a circus company to three months in jail in a case filed after a six-year-old Qatari boy was attacked and hurt by a baby leopard last November.

The circus show at Hyatt Plaza was cancelled following the incident, which happened when the boy was being photographed with the leopard after the show, according to earlier reports.
he court also slapped a fine of QR200,000 on the company (Royal Circus) and QR2,000 on the circus manager.

They were convicted for not taking enough precautions to ensure the safety of visitors, thus causing serious injuries to the boy. He suffered injuries in the neck and chest and had to undergo surgery at Hamad General Hospital.

The boy’s mother told the court that she had taken him to the circus organised by the popular commercial centre. As they entered the circus tent, her son asked to be photographed with the leopard behind a one-meter high steel fence.

When the mother tried to take the picture, the trainer stopped her and demanded money for photographing the boy with the leopard, she said. After taking the money, the trainer took the mother and her son inside the fence, close to the leopard, which was lying on a platform, a little above the ground.

The trainer left for a while to collect change to return the balance amount. When she came back, she allowed them to take the picture with their mobile phone. As the boy came closer to the leopard and the mother took a suitable position to take the picture, the boy was attacked.

The leopard bit the boy in the neck, resting its clutches on his back. As the boy started bleeding, his mother fought with the animal to set him free from its claws but in vain. Onlookers rushed to rescue the boy and the mother fell unconscious. The boy was taken away for first aid. A witness narrated a similar story before the court during the hearing. A medical report also confirmed that the victim was bitten by the leopard and was injured.

Qatar Tourism Authority, which issued the licence for the circus show, said in a letter that the circus management violated rules by allowing visitors to be photographed with the leopard since this was not mentioned in the document submitted to the authority. Based on this statement, the court held the company responsible for the accident caused by safety lapses.

Circus acts help put fun into daily commute
CIRCUS acts are helping to put the fun back into the daily commute as part of a new council initiative.
From: sunderlandecho.com
March 27, 2014
Unicyclists, an acrobat and a skateboarder launched the Great North Commute, as part of the Make Tracks this Spring Campaign, at The Galleries, Washington, yesterday.

Onlookers watched the impressive flash mob display their skills, which was aimed at getting people to think about a fun way to get to work, rather than taking the car.

Coun James Blackburn, responsible for city services at Sunderland City Council, enjoyed people’s reaction to the creative display.

“This campaign will help to capture people’s imagination and get us to think more about how we can help reduce traffic congestion in our communities,” he said.

“We need to encourage everyone to consider other ways of travelling, and getting out of the car to walk, cycle or run to work.”

Travel plan officer for Sunderland City Council, and project manager for the Go Smarter to Work Scheme for Washington, Diane Hilder, said: “Thirty six per cent of households in Tyne and Wear don’t have a car, so they are all travelling different ways.

“I think people are becoming more aware of how they travel as they are finding it costly to travel by car.”

They Great North Commute will take place on Friday, April 4. For more information, visit www.gosmarter.co.uk.
SNN: Sarasota County fair wraps up it's 10 day event



Published on Mar 23, 2014
SNN: Sarasota County fair wraps up it's 10 day event
Equestrian



Uploaded on Sep 4, 2011
www.circus-tv.ru

Circus Oz unveils new $15 million ­Collingwood home in old tech school building


Melbourne circus performers at open training at the new Circus Oz home in Collingwood. 
Picture: Josie Hayden Source: News Limited
From: MELBOURNE LEADER 
By NIC PRICE
MARCH 28, 2014 
THE circus has run away to join Collingwood.

Circus Oz this morning unveiled its $15 million ­purpose-built Perry St home, which will host regular performances in a Spiegeltent in the carpark and public classes.

Visitors are urged to take a peek inside at a free open day this Saturday from 11am-4pm.

The State Government-funded project reshaped the former Collingwood Technical School (parts of which have stood empty for 20 years) into a complex including large rooms for rehearsals and classes, a band room, props workshop, costume department, offices, storage and more.

Building technical co-­ordinator Anni Davey said the 15m-high rehearsal space would for the first time allow trapeze artists and other aerial performers to replicate the conditions of the big top.

It would also allow classes to take place at the same time as rehearsals, where previously they were cancelled for up to 20 weeks a year in the lead-up to a show.

“Our old premises were so cramped, we all feel like we’ve breathed out,” Ms Davey said.

“Everyone is so excited to be in such a great space.

“Collingwood has such a diverse culture and it feels like a great fit for us.”

A Spiegeltent will be set up in the carpark with performances six months a year by visiting artists and community groups.

But the Circus Oz main show will continue to be held in a big top at Birrarung Marr.

Arts Minister Heidi Victoria hailed the centre, ­designed by Lovell Chen.

“This exciting project will ensure that Victoria’s reputation as a world leader in circus arts will be maintained, and Circus Oz can continue to contribute to Victoria’s cultural and community life,” she said.
Raw: Sumatran Tiger Cubs Debut at London Zoo



Associated Press
Published on Mar 28, 2014
Three Sumatran Tiger cubs, born in February at the London Zoo, made their first public appearance this week. Sumatran tigers are a very rare species and are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. (March 28)
Kelly Miller Circus Comes to Mascoutah April 18
From: heraldpubs.com
March 27, 2014 
MASCOUTAH,IL - Once again this year the Mascoutah Rotary Club is sponsoring the Kelly Miller Circus on Easter weekend for a pair of Good Friday performances, April 18th, at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

This year the circus will set up on the Mascoutah Elementary School playground, just south of Scheve Park.

For the first time, circus goers will be able to buy and print their tickets just like they would for St. Louis sports or concert events. Just go to kelly-miller-circus.ticketleap.com and locate the date of the circus to buy and print out your tickets. There is a $1.50 handlingcharge.Thesiteacceptsmostcreditcards.

Advance tickets will go on sale later this week at the same outlets as last year - all Mascoutah banks, Mascoutah Hardware Company, the Mascoutah Senior Center, and the Mascoutah Herald. Tickets are also available from Mascoutah Rotary members. Ticket prices remain the same - $6 for children and $10 for adults, but increase on the day of the circus to $8 for children and $15 for adults, so you save money by buying in advance. No advance tickets will be sold on the day of the circus. Children that have not had their second birthday get in free. All children over 12 require an adult ticket.

According to Keith Gillett, chairman of this yearʼs event, “The Kelly Miller Circus is one of the best small circuses in the country and we have always received good feedback on their shows in past years. Proceeds that we raise will help us finish a special access ramp at the Leu Civic Center.”

Wednesday, March 26, 2014







Circus, clowns, fun headed to towns across the East
From: wnct.com
By Andrew Ruiz, Digital Journalist
Mar 25, 2014


WINTERVILLE, N.C. - The circus is coming to town this week.

And the Cole Brother's clowns are pulling out all of their tricks to get you to come out.

Tuesday morning, Lew-E The Clown performed in front a few dozen kids at the Open Door Ministries School in Winterville.

The room was full of laughter and fun.

Lew-E says that's what the circus is all about.

"The circus is a very exciting tradition, you know, grandparents and parents remember going to the circus as when they were a child,” said Lew-E The Clown. “So when they can come the circus and bring their children and precariously live through their children and remember the days, it's a very exciting thing for everyone involved."

The circus will be in Greenville this weekend before heading to Kinston, Washington and Jacksonville.
Penguin vs rope

Life is a circus for this circus family

Vicki Zsilak works with her animals in the curcus ring.
FELD MEDIA
By Bridget Winston
From: thestate.com
March 26, 2014 
Vicki Zsilak considers the circus a family affair.

Her grandparents were world-class circus jugglers and performed together in a slack wire act.

Her parents, who met while on tour with Ringling Bros. in the 1960s, were also skilled jugglers.

Zsilak, after attending an arts school in Hungary, met her own husband, Alex Petrov, in the circus. She was performing with a horseback juggling troupe and he was helping to care for the animals.

Today, Zsilak and her husband have two children – a 16-year-old son and a 9-year-old daughter – who travel with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, learning from the jugglers, dancers and acrobats, while studying under a tutor.

Zsilak currently works as an exotic animal trainer, and she considers the creatures under her care part of the family, as well. In the current tour, coming to the Colonial Life Arena this week, Zsilak is working with llamas, donkeys, goats, ponies and kangaroos.

“I joined Ringling Bros. 14 years ago (as a horseback juggler). With the horses, I always had a connection,” she said. “I love the animals.”

With a long history of traveling with the circus, Zsilak is no stranger to animal rights’ protesters who demonstrate when the circus comes to town. But she says Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey provide world-class treatment of the animals, including quality food, regular exercise and on-site veterinarian care.

“We are day-in and day-out with the animals,” she said. “We spend so much time with the animals, they become your family.”

The current tour is called “Legends,” and features a unicorn, Pegasus, and wooly mammoth, in addition to the clowns, lions and tigers, trapeze artists, horseback riders and bike riders.

Circus festivities kick off on Wednesday with the elephant walk. The timing of the elephant walk is not determined until the day of the event.

Performances are Thursday at 7 p.m.; Friday at 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m.; Saturday at 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 1:30 and 5:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the Colonial Life Arena box office or Play It Again Sports on Harbison Blvd., at www.LMCtix.com, or by calling 1-855-4-LMC-TIX (1-855-456-2849). Ticket prices are $17-62.

Read more here: http://www.thestate.com/2014/03/26/3348487/life-is-a-circus-for-this-circus.html#storylink=cpy

Araba Shrine Circus comes to Civic Center

Fort Myers Beach Bulletin, Fort Myers Beach Observer
March 25, 2014
Animals, performers, and clowns will converge upon the Lee Civic Center on Thursday when the Araba Shrine Circus comes into town with three big indoor shows, one especially for local school children.

The shows will be at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

The 11 a.m. show will be free to children and their chaperones from the schools and organizations within the surrounding five counties (Charlotte, Lee, Collier, Hendry and Glades) that are served by the Araba Shriners, who are headquartered on Hanson Street in Fort Myers.

"We have contacted the school systems and they're going to bus kids into the show," said public relations director Stephen Powell. "We had about 3,000 to 4,000 kids show up for the morning show last year."

The other two shows will be general admission for everyone and will feature a petting zoo.

The Shrine Circus, which was founded in 1906, has come to Fort Myers for the last 20 years, and travels to roughly 120 cities nationwide (and another 40 in Canada) as a way to raise money for the Shriners' hospitals.

The Araba Shrine is one of 13 shrine centers in the state, usually located in the major cities, and approximately 190 centers nationwide.

Their sole purpose is to support their 22 Shriners hospitals throughout North America, Powell said.

It allows children whose parents are unable to pay to have them treated for illness, burns or skeletal issues to be able to get treatment without cost.

General admission to the circus is $15.

The petting zoo will be open and available before and after each show.
- See more at: http://www.fort-myers-beach-observer.com/page/content.detail/id/524982/Araba-Shrine-Circus-comes-to-Civic-Center.html?nav=5064#sthash.XcJU6CiU.dpuf


Colombian soldiers clown around in roving circus
From: globalpost.com
Agence France-Presse 
March 26, 2014 
The amateur trapeze artist on the not very high wire juggles while trying to keep his balance, but fails and falls. A crowd of hundreds of villagers claps anyway.
After all, he is just a soldier -- part of a roving Colombian circus made up of military personnel.
The circus is part of efforts to ease local fears about Colombian armed forces after decades of conflict -- a brutal civil war with leftist rebels that has lasted half a century and left thousands dead.

The troupe, with its blue and yellow big top, is called Circo Colombia and made up of 17 active and retired soldiers who travel to remote villages.
On this particular day, the circus has pulled into Tibirita, a village of 3,000 people in central Colombia.
For a day, the performers trade military fatigues for the make-up of clowns and the costumes of acrobats to try to cleanse the army's somewhat tarnished image.
The trapeze artist, retired from the army, is a tall, burly guy named Leonardo Santamaria. He entertains from a wire five meters (17 feet) off the ground.
After his fall, and the applause, he states the obvious.
"We are not professional performers," he tells AFP. "People know that soldiers are trained to do other things.

Several of the circus members have patrolled areas where Colombia's two main guerrilla armies -- the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), with some 7,000 fighters, and the National Liberation Army (ELN), with 2,500 -- still operate.
- Soldiers 'very nice' -
Indeed, under the big top, the soldiers undertake other tasks: juggling, balancing acts, and even singing.
Younger military personnel, who are completing mandatory service requirements, still wear their dress fatigues as they breathe fire or jump over flaming poles.
"I spend the day rehearsing," Santamaria says. "I am an acrobat."
"The circus is my life," says soldier Daniel Borja, who morphs into a clown called Cascabelin, one of the troupe's star attractions. He has a red nose and pot belly and get loads of laughs.

Some of those in the crowd were bussed in by Tiribita's city hall from remote spots.
They are initially a bit startled at what they see, but the fighters-turned-artists are used to the wariness.
"At first they are scared, naturally. Colombian soldiers and a circus... what is this all about?" said Sergeant Oscar Francisco Yela, the commander of Circo Colombia.

For 20 years, the circus has been roving areas where the army might usually instill fear, and this tour is particularly timely.
In recent weeks, the army has been mired in a string of scandals, including allegations of corruption and extrajudicial killings.
"There are a lot of Colombian soldiers, but we are the good ones," Yela says.
This day, the reviews are good.
"The soldiers are very nice. I like their friendliness and attention," says Rosa Aldana, a 40-year-old peasant wearing a poncho.
When the show ends, some of the audience members come up on stage. Everybody applauds.
The emcee recites a pray for soldiers fallen in combat, as the lights go out.
Back in the village, other soldiers are on patrol, toting rifles.

http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/afp/140326/colombian-soldiers-clown-around-roving-circus


Circus and shopping pavilion to be part of entertainment hub in Khalifa Park

 

From: thenational.ae
The National staff
March 25, 2014
ABU DHABI // A circus and shopping pavilion will be part of a major entertainment venue to be built in Khalifa Park.
Abu Dhabi Municipality wants to encourage private-sector investors to help finance, develop and operate the “world-class” Khalifa Park Entertainment Event venue, which will occupy 200,000 square metres and be open from October this year until next March.

It is expected to attract between 1.5 and 2 million visitors during the six-month event.

Tenders for work on the site will be issued soon.

“The project will also include a full calendar of shows, retail pavilions, and food and beverage outlets,” reported Wam, the state news agency.

“Another key attraction will be the circus, which will be seamlessly integrated within the overall events venue, with regular shows into the evening.”
The circus will feature a variety of shows, displays and spectacular acts from around the world.

The venue will also host musicals, comedy, carnivals, parades and firework displays.

Circus chef on a high wire
 

Chef Matt Loory ran away and joined Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Today he heads up a kitchen that cooks for a crew of over 300.
From: thestate.com
By Susan Ardis
March 25, 2014 
Matt Loory ran away and joined the circus.
Actually, Loory, a Class of 2012 graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Orlando, Fla., heard about a job opening at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and applied for the position. Now Chef Loory oversees the Pie Car on the circus train with a staff of five and tries to keep a crew of over 300 happy and well fed on a daily basis as well as operating a 40-foot-long mobile cooking unit that is set up inside performance arenas while the circus is in residence.
We were able to chat on the phone for a few minutes and Loory gave me some insight about his job and life in the circus.
 So, why is it called the Pie Car?
There are three stories or explanations for this.
One is train-related: that the dining car in almost every train could be counted on to always offer coffee and pie.
Two relate to the circus: First, in the days of daily multiple-scheduled shows, the “Chow House” served up fast and easy-to-eat hand-held meat pies for the crew. Over the years the name was changed to Pie Car. Second, and (the one Loory likes) PIE stands for Privileged Individuals and Employees and the Pie Car is where they gather for meals and relaxing.
Traditionally, the Pie Car is at the center of the Circus Train, making it easy to get to and offering a central location for socializing. (Loory’s pie car can accommodate about 32 people in eight booths and acts as a common area. It even has DirecTV.)
 

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

C & M display ad





Miami-Dade County Youth Fair & Exposition: The Best Florida Has To Offer


By Yaneli Gonzalez, Somerset Academy
March 25, 2014
The Miami-Dade County Youth Fair & Exposition has brought annual joy and entertainment to the people of South Florida for over 60 years. Running from March 13 to March 30, 2014, the Fair brings great rides, foods, games, shows, as well as the talents of more than 40,000 of Miami-Dade students to people from all over South Florida. This year, the experience is even better with new things to see and more deals to get the most out of your money.
New This Year:
The use of P*O*P wristbands (unlimited ride passes) has been extended into the weekends.

Senior citizens 65 years of age and older now get in free; as do children 5 and under.
Tickets:
General admission is $12 at the gate, $8 if bought at Sedano’s Supermarkets, and $5 for FIU students online with a promotional code.
An unlimited ride wristband costs $25 at the ticket booth, the same as 22 individual ride coupons.  Since the number of coupons per ride averages about 3 tickets, the wristband is the best deal The Fair has to offer. Sedano’s Supermarkets are offering P*O*P wristbands for up to $15 less than at the ticket booth, and FIU students can buy one for $22 online with their promotional code.
Wells is named fair manager of the year


From:  mansfieldnewsjournal.com
Written by Ginnie Baker-NewsJournalCorrespondent
Mar. 25, 2014
MANSFIELD — Dean Wells, Richland County fair manager, was selected as the Fair Manager of the Year for the State of Ohio by the Greater Ohio Showmen’s Association at its district meeting March 16.

GOSA is a nonprofit organization with members dedicated to the improvement of the outdoor amusement business, working to guide, assist and cooperate with groups responsible for fairs, festivals and special events in Ohio. It has nine districts representing Ohio’s 88 counties.

“It’s such an honor. I had no idea I was receiving the award. They called here a couple of days before the meeting to make sure I was going to be there, but I had no idea why,” Wells said.

GOSA President Andy Pocock presented the award to Wells at the district meeting in Dalton.

“It was an honor to have met him. He’s a good guy and deserves the award. We are luckyto have him as a member,” Pocock said.

Nominations for fair manager of the year are submitted by fair board members in the Ohio Fair Managers Association, concessionaires and anyone involved with county fairs, such as office helpers, groundskeepers and maintenance workers

read more:
http://www.mansfieldnewsjournal.com/article/20140324/NEWS01/303240025/Wells-named-fair-manager-year?nclick_check=1


 OABA Honors Industry Pioneer, Bob Childress


from: oaba.org
Feb 18, 2014
OABA Honors Industry Pioneer, Bob Childress
OABA’s 2014 Industry Pioneer Award was given to Bob Childress, a gentleman whose 60 year career in the outdoor amusement and entertainment industry, as an owner of Childress Shows, Hendricks Bros. Circus, Lewis & Clark Circus and Childress Manufacturing, epitomizes the OABA’s Pioneer Award recognition.
Bob began his career as a novelty huckster at age 12 and continued selling his wares while attending and graduating from Clemson University.  Shortly after his stint in the Navy, Bob met his wife, Margaret and they were
Pioneer Bob Childress
In 1975 he started Childress Manufacturing, designing, building and selling rides, such as the Giant Slide, Castlemania, and a kiddie coaster.  Bob sold his Childress Shows carnival company in 1996, but still had the itch to build amusement rides and built 37, one-trailer Expo Wheels, then sold that manufacturing company in 2007.married in 1957.  He went from novelties to amusement rides and in 1962 he started Childress Shows.  For some 35 years he had two units, and some 40 rides on tour through the Southeast.
Along the way he framed two circuses, Hendricks Bros. Circus with animal acts that included an elephant, which he sold in 2006 and then framed another one-tent show called Lewis & Clark Circus, which traveled from Texas to Pennsylvania.  During this time, Bob acquired, trained and performed in his own tiger act and then sold Lewis & Clark in 2013.
Bob Childress is an industry icon who is a friend to all Showmen in the mobile amusement and entertainment industry.


Lewis & Clark Circus brings thrills to fairgrounds

Photo by: Shelby Harrell
The emcee of the Lewis & Clark Circus spins upside down in the air for a grand finale trick
From: the mountaineer.village soup.com
March 22, 2014
The sounds of cheering and delight could be heard near Crabtree Road on Thursday and Friday evenings when the Lewis & Clark Circus visited the Haywood County Fairgrounds to perform its one-ring European style show.


The circus also included outdoor games, a bouncy house and camel and pony rides.

The Lewis & Clark show combines colorful costumes with dazzling acrobatics, aerial beauty, adorable animals and impressive skills to provide an unforgettable evening of laughs and thrills suitable for the entire family.

see and read more:
http://themountaineer.villagesoup.com/p/lewis-clark-circus-brings-thrills-to-fairgrounds/1144993#


Lewis & Clark Circus 2014

'No profanity' signs now on way to OC boardwalk
Council approves move adapted from Virginia Beach

The robin's egg-blue 'no profanity please' signs will serve as a reminder to not swear, but will not be connected with a fineable offense. / 
Town of Ocean City image
from: delmarvanow.com
Written by Brian Shane-Staff Writer
Mar. 25, 2014
OCEAN CITY — “No Profanity Please” signs will be posted every block on the Boardwalk this summer, Ocean City officials have decided.

The Ocean City Council approved the signage at its March 24 meeting, the result of weeks of discussion among officials trying to chart the best course for what’s ultimately an unenforcable suggestion.

“It wasn’t going to be anything fineable. It’s just a general reminder,” said Councilwoman Mary Knight, who pitched the idea in January. “The idea is that it shows that Ocean City cares. Families will see it. People will remember, ‘when I see it, maybe I shouldn’t use colorful language’ that some folks use.”

The robin’s egg-blue signs, available in 12-by-18-inch and 24-by-18-inch sizes, also will be available to any business owner who wishes to post them, said City Manager David Recor.

Knight said two local hoteliers brought the idea to her after seeing similar signs in Virginia Beach.

The Virginia Beach signs show grawlix — that’s the word for typographical symbols used to stand in for nonspecific profanity — with a red slash through them. Virginia law makes it a misdemeanor for any person to “profanely curse or swear” in public. The same law makes it illegal to be drunk in public.

The First Amendment right to free speech prevents Ocean City from outlawing profanity in public places, according to Guy Ayres, Ocean City’s attorney.

A person who’s being loud and drawing a crowd may get charged with disorderly conduct, “but you’re not arresting them for a word that’s said,” Ayres said in a January interview.

Councilman Brent Ashley — who last summer drummed up attention for the resort with his efforts to enact a ban on saggy pants — noted how Ocean City’s competitors also are stepping up so-called decency rules. He said Dewey Beach has tightened restrictions on public urination. Similarly, Rehoboth Beach also recently has banned smoking in some public places.

“While this is not an ordinance, but more of a suggestion, it’s the right thing to do and sends the right message,” Ashley said. “We respect each visitor that comes to our town, and we’re just asking them to do the same.

“Now, if we could just add ‘no saggy pants’ to the sign, we might have something,” he said.


Monday, March 24, 2014


DEPT. OF AGRICULTURE & MARKETS ANNOUNCES WADE SHOWS SELECTED AS NEW OPERATOR OF MIDWAY AT THE NY STATE FAIR

“Showcase NY” Themed Foods, Rides, Games and Amenities to be Spotlighted on the Midway this Year and for Years to Come

March 14, 2014
Acting State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball today announced that Wade Shows of Livonia, Michigan has been selected as the newest operator of the Midway at the Great New York State Fair.  Wade was selected after an extensive Request for Proposals (RFP) process that began in the summer of 2013.  Wade takes over operations of the Midway from James E. Strates Shows of Orlando, Florida.

“We couldn’t be more excited about the new rides and attractions that Wade Shows will bring to the Midway of the Great New York State Fair this year,” Acting Commissioner Ball said.  “The theme of this year’s Fair is ‘Summer’s Best in Show’ and we are clearly starting off on the right foot.  Over the years, this company has gained a deserved reputation for increasing both revenue and attendance at agricultural fairs, while providing a superior entertainment product for Fairgoers.  We greatly look forward to this new era at the Fair, which we believe will be exciting for the thousands of visitors who come to this mecca of upstate tourism every year.” 
( A NOTE FROM THE BALLOONMAN)
THIS ENDS A RECORD BREAKING NUMBER OF YEARS
THAT STRATES SHOWS HAVE HELD THIS CONTRACT!


April 4th 5th & 6th, 2014
Now in its 81st year!!! Acrobats, clowns, motorcycle thrill act, elephants and other animals… enjoyable for the entire family! Each show approx. 2-1/2 hours (includes half-hour intermission). The Tigris Shrine Circus is the local main fundraiser which then helps support The Shriners worldwide. Visit event website for more information (all tickets general admission ONLY - No reserve seating). Advance sale tickets available at Solvay Bank branches, Nichol’s Supermarket,  Nojams, Mazzye’s Meats and Big M stores. Coliseum Box Office open one-hour before each show for walk-up ticket sales.
Friday, April 4th, 2014
7:00-PM
Saturday April 5th, 2014
10:00-AM
2:30-PM
7:00-PM
Sunday April 6th, 2014
1:00-PM
5:00-PM
CIRCUS TICKETS--
https://www.tigrisshrinecircus.com/index.php


Buffalo Shrine Circus
from: wkbw.com
March 14, 2014


Ringling Brothers Circus Ringmaster Andre McClain
from: wncn.com
Feb 19, 2014
Every day hump day at camel-loving circus

photo courtesy of ramos bros. circus
Jugglers perform during a Ramos Bros. Circus show.
from: bakersfieldcalifornian.com
Feb 28, 2014
By THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

Spring is getting a head start this year and so is the circus: The Ramos Bros. big top has returned to the parking lot of Golden State Mall and will open for business today -- three months earlier than its 2013 Bakersfield stop.

David Wagaman, who handles publicity for the Twentynine Palms-based circus, said the 40 or so staffers have spent a couple of months working up new acts, which they just debuted in Moreno Valley in Southern California.

"It's a clean, beautiful show," said Wagaman, who has known the Ramos family for 40 years.

The circus specializes in trapeze and aerial acts, and features other standard big-top attractions like clowns and jugglers.

"The juggler is a very young guy and he's really full of energy and a very talented juggler," Wagaman said.

Another draw is the animals: llamas, horses, zebras, dogs and camels.

"Camels are wonderful in the ring. They've got that dumb look on their face, but they're very, very smart animals."

So smart, in fact, that one got loose a couple of years ago in Glendale, an escape that snarled traffic and made national news.

"The camel wasn't hurt," Wagaman said. "They just went right after the camel and got it right away."

The problem, he said, was that the animal didn't like her new handler, and camels, it seems, can be high-maintenance.

"The camels are both females, and last February I was with the circus in Las Vegas. Those two camels were in heat, and they were uncontrollable," said Wagaman, who sought to reassure Bakersfield visitors by noting the camel is back with the trainer she likes.

Beyond the fresh act, the Ramos Bros. Circus is showing off a new tent, which seats 1,000 audience members. The slow runs about two hours.


Circus revival takes centre in Britain
From the Chinese pole to the Cloud swing, no expense was spared at the official launch of the UK's National Centre for Circus Arts in London on Tuesday, which is hoped to put Britain centre stage of the circus world.
From: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/
12 Mar 2014,



VIDEO: The Giggle Gang Brings Big-Top Laughs to Storybook Circus in New Fantasyland
The Storybook Circus Giggle Gang - "Romance" Show
WDW News Today on YouTube
Published on Dec 9, 2012

Penza state circus

from: penzanews.ru
The Penza circus was founded by Nikitin brothers in 1873. In 1920–1950 the shows of circus in Penza took place in temporary constructions and circuses-chapiteaus. In 1933, the circus “Krasnogvardeez” was built. Here the circus performances were held regularly and enjoyed great popularity. The building survived the Great Patriotic War and was demolished only in 1959.

The next six years the circus shows were held on the summer circus-chapiteau arena. And in 1965 the absolutely new building of the circus opened its doors for audience. Its capacity was 1400 spectators.

There were well-known national actors of the USSR and Russia which performed on the arena of the circus in Penza. Among them were the Durovs, the Kios, the Kantemirovs, the Zapashnyes, the Volzhanskys, Oleg Popov, Irina Bugrimova, Yury Averino and many others.

The Penza circus gave performance on a tour in Brazil, Uruguay, France, Australia and Japan. In 1973, it was awarded the order of Badge of Honor.
Circuses from different regions and countries perform at the Penza circus. However, Penza actors are also well known for their show programs. Three attractions and 13 shows, which have success not only in Russia but abroad, were organized there.

There are various folk circus troupes and schools specialized in circus amateur art, whose students were many times the winners of the international competitions.
read more:
Full text news agency "PenzaNews": http://penzanews.ru/en/entertainment/circus
Wigan lad’s classroom just like a circus!


A typical day at circus school 
From: wigantoday.net
March 14, 2014

NOT many people know that circus school exists yet alone want to take up such performing as a career, but one Wigan lad is finding out just how tough it is to learn the art of fooling around for a living.

Michael Standen from Ashton is in his third year of a BA Hons degree in Circus Arts - the only course of its kind in the country.

The 23-year-old former Winstanley College and Cansfield High pupil trains five days a week to perfect his talents, which he honed at Wigan Seagulls Acrobatic Gymnastics Club.

After studying A-levels in art, psychology, sociology and philosophy, Michael made the decision to pursue a career in circus performance and after a gruelling two-day audition was accepted onto the course.

Michael said: “It was really daunting going for the audition as they rigorously test you in every element of circus performance. As well as my gymnastics, I had to show I could act and dance too. I had to complete an obstacle course, movement class, theatre class and flexibility, strength and acrobatic assessments.

 
Michael Standen
“I suppose I quickly learnt, like a lot of degree students, that any degree is hard work and this really is. There is no time for messing about at all as everything you do and learn ids critical to your success.

“It’s really hard work and some days you think, ‘I don’t want to go in today,’ because you are physically tired and your muscles are aching, but when you get in, the teachers really help.”

Circus Space is a registered charity and one of Europe’s leading providers of circus education. Based in a magnificent Victorian power station adjacent to Hoxton Square in the East End of London.
read more:
http://www.wigantoday.net/news/wigan-lad-s-classroom-just-like-a-circus-1-6499545

Sunday, March 23, 2014

Ringling trolley could return
from:wiscnews.com
by Ben Bromley News Republic
March 21, 2014 
Circus World Museum leaders are working to resume trolley service to downtown Baraboo attractions.

Years ago, Circus World’s trolley was a frequent sight on the downtown streets in summertime, transporting visitors to Ringling-related sites, such as the circus impresarios’ onetime homes and the Al. Ringling Theatre.

Now, as downtown attractions are developing a single discounted ticket for admission to every participating site, there’s talk of bringing back the trolley.

At Thurdsay’s meeting of the Circus World Museum Foundation board, Executive Director Scott O’Donnell said five attractions will honor the “combo ticket,” which at $34 for an adult offers a 35 percent discount:
Circus World Museum
International Clown Hall of Fame
Al. Ringling Theatre
Al. Ringling Mansion
Baraboo Historic Walking Tour
The attractions’ goal is to capitalize on tourists’ visits to Baraboo, encouraging them to visit multiple locations, stay longer and spend more money.
read more:
http://www.wiscnews.com/baraboonewsrepublic/news/local/article_ee28aac6-dda2-5e2e-a33f-de0d01ae3ebe.html
A banner year

Circus World Museum staff spent Monday morning at the corner of Third and Oak in downtown Baraboo removing a 30-year-old mural celebrating the history of the Ringling Bros. Circus. They then put up a new mural, sponsored by Baraboo National Bank, that celebrates the circus' 130th anniversary. Scott O'Donnell, Dave SaLoutos, Harold "Heavy" Burdick" and Tristan Crist did the work.


From Baraboo News Republic
March 10, 2014
Ben Bromley, News Republic photos
Circus World Museum Executive Director Scott O'Donnell and Baraboo Bancorporation CEO Merlin Zitzner celebrate Baraboo National Bank sponsoring a new mural promoting the 130th anniversary of the Ringling Bros. Circus. The famed circus impresarios were longtime partners with the bank. The mural is located at Third and Oak in downtown Baraboo, replacing a previous mural installed in 1984.




Go Pick: Circus tunes on tap for American Legion Band

George Fennell directs the American Legion Band in 'The Greatest Concert On Earth' featuring circus musical selections. 
(Harry Fisher, THE MORNING CALL / May 26, 2013)
From: mcall.com
By Kathy Lauer-Williams, Of The Morning Call
March 22, 2014
Come one, come all to the American Legion Band of Bethlehem's circus music concert 3 p.m. Sunday, March 23, at Advent Moravian Church in Bethlehem.
George Fennell directs the band in "The Greatest Concert On Earth" featuring musical selections heard at the circus including "Barnum and Bailey's Favorite," a circus march written in 1913 by Karl King for that circus.
There will be circus-related activities for kids, and families can enjoy refreshments in the church hall at 3730 Jacksonville Road after the performance.
The concert is the first of 18 in the band's 69th concert season. The band also is performing at veterans observances for American Legion Post 379 in Bethlehem.
Tickets are $10 for adults, available at the door. Seniors are $5, children are free.
Info: 610-570-8321
Read more: http://www.mcall.com/entertainment/kids/mc-gp-american-legion-circus-20140322,0,1611979.story#ixzz2woIcqBap 
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