The 12th annual Sarasota International Circus Festival & Parade was
presented in Sarasota, Florida from Jan. 21 to 26.  This is an organiz-
ation of active and retired circus people and aficionados.  Some of the
circuses participating were: Roberts Bros. Circus, Herriott Family
Circus, Royal Palace Circus, and Royal American Circus.  This function
has been well known in the Sarasota area and among circus people, but has
received little publicity elsewhere.

My North Tonawanda organ was apparently the first band organ to appear at
the festival, and was well received by the participants and the public.
Dave Morcraft brought his steam calliope from Peru, Indiana, and there
was also a Tangley calliope in the Sunday parade.  The weather was great,
except for a wind and rain storm Saturday afternoon.

Participation by other band organ owners (as well as monkey organs,
Unafons, etc.) would be most welcome I'm sure.  Anyone interested in
attending future festivals should contact:

  Diane Brown, President
  Sarasota International Circus Festival & Parade
  P.O. Box 14100
  Sarasota, FL 34278
  tel: 941-351-8888

Fritz Gellerman