From Henry Edgar

Kelly Miller Circus January 05, 2007 MIDWAY FLASH ... MIDWAY FLASH ... Kenneth Feld versus John Ringling North II? The Feld Organization is evidently monitoring late-breaking developments in a town called Hugo (in a state called Oklahoma!) -– which, as I’ve already predicted, could become the new Sarasota ... What is threatening to put Hugo on the map Big Time is the pending return to the sawdust of the House of Ringling ... What has piqued the Feld's interest is the name of Kelly Miller’s new owner — John Ringling North II ... With a Kelly-Miller opening slated for March 11, already, as reported to Showbiz David by North’s partner Jim Royal, they have received a letter from Kenneth Feld’s long-time executive vice president and chief counsel, Jerome Sowalsky, advising them, in Jim Royal’s words to "refrain from using North’s name in connection with Kelly Miler circus." The purpose? "To avoid future problems." This communique left North dumbfounded. According to Royal, putting it in plain speak, "John replied that he found this baffling for he is and always has been, John Ringling North II" ... So what goes here? Is multi-millionaire Kenneth Feld actually afraid of serious competition form a small one ring tent show? Known for ferociously protecting his assets, does Feld fear a hidden agenda from the nephew of legendary circus mover and shaker John Ringling North? ... From this Ringling rattling, North & Royal stand to gain some national attention ... From this, too, Kenneth Feld may be driven to improve the quality of his shows ... And that’s a win-win for everybody. Sarasota: Are you still laughing? Jim Royal to Showbiz David: "He [John] wondered if the Feld Organization wanted him to change his name or adopt an alias." ... Evidently, Mr. North, at least for the moment, has opted out of a new name; a queer eye for the straight guy makeover; or the witness protection program ... The neophyte showman, who is apparently comfortable in his own skin (I just hate that phrase, don’t you?) has quite graciously invited Mr. Sowalsky, Mr. Feld and their respective families to "be his honored guests" at the Hugo opening. Meanwhile, I’m trying to locate my on-the-spot guy, Sage, who promised in-depth rumors from or near Hugo. Without cell phone, Sage should be calling me any moment now from the nearest bar or bus station ... Stay tuned ...