Back into the Tempest: Facing Weather Uncertainty Again

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
June 19, 2024

I thought that taking a week off from the charity/retirement ride would have cleared out the storm fronts here in the mid west.  But, no! I left early today, before 7AM as the weather enroute looks sketchy with predictions of varying amounts of rain.  And rather than meander, I rode the toll road for the first 150 miles to make time, and I didn't like that.  Going on the highway at 60 to 70MPH I dont absorb surroundings, it is a blur of green here in the mid west, no different than rushing past anywhere else.  After that quick jaunt, I split off to the back roads, ahhhh!  Riding much slower past homesteads, farms, ranches on backroads with subtle elevation changes and sweeping curves, is soothing.  I feel the world, feels more like I am in this place rather than speeding through it.  And riding at backroad speeds is more relaxing than tooling down a highway.

I'm at Nig's in Wisconsin Dells and have met a few folks asking about what I am doing, you know my Children International charity ride.  They thought it was an admirable effort.  They thought that theyd donate.


Here's a bit of current events here relating to my itinerary for tomorrow, Minnesota here I come!

 


World Circus Museum
Baraboo, Wisconsin

The World Circus Museum in Baraboo, Wisconsin, offers a comprehensive look into the rich history of circus arts. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring vintage posters, costumes, and historic circus wagons. The museum also provides insights into the lives of performers and the evolution of the circus over time. It's a unique destination for anyone interested in the cultural and historical significance of the circus.

So while I am not, nor have I ever been attracted to the Circus, well it is what is here and so,....









The Ringling Brothers, founders of the Ringling Brothers Circus, created one of the most famous and enduring circus enterprises in history. Their circus became renowned for its grand performances, featuring a diverse array of acts and extravagant productions. Over the years, the Ringling Brothers played a significant role in shaping modern circus entertainment and popular culture.





The history of circuses in the U.S. dates back to the late 18th century, with John Bill Ricketts establishing the first American circus in 1793. Throughout the 19th century, circuses grew in popularity, evolving from small, traveling shows to large-scale productions featuring diverse acts such as acrobats, clowns, and exotic animals. The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked the golden age of American circuses, with prominent names like Barnum & Bailey and the Ringling Brothers dominating the industry. These circuses played a significant role in American entertainment, leaving a lasting legacy despite their decline in the mid-20th century due to changing public tastes and increasing awareness of animal rights.




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Funny mirrors, often found in amusement parks and funhouses, are designed with curved surfaces that distort reflections, creating comical and exaggerated images. These mirrors amuse visitors by making them appear unusually tall, short, wide, or thin, providing lighthearted entertainment.




Elephants have been a popular feature in circuses for over a century, known for their impressive size and ability to perform complex tricks. However, their use has been highly controversial due to concerns over animal welfare, including inhumane training methods and inadequate living conditions. Growing awareness and advocacy for animal rights have led to a decline in the use of elephants in circuses, with many shows phasing them out entirely.
After visiting, and fast forwarding through the World Circus Museum, I decided to skip the clown museum.  Again, I have never had any fascination with this genre.

  

FRIENDSHIP, WISCONSIN June 19, 2024

Arrived in Friendship, Wisconsin late afternoon and was hosted by Ken and Sue and their 15 years old dog Kato.  Ken and Sue were gracious hosts and treated me to conversation, beers, and a nice dinner, and saw me off after coffee in the morning.



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