For those who haven’t heard from kids or grandkids, the Culpepper and Merriweather Great Combined Circus will feature two shows in downtown Tama on Friday evening, Aug. 16.

Everyone is invited to watch the big top be raised behind the Fire station at the Tama Civic Center, 305 Siegel, between 9:30- 10 a.m. and then get a free tour.

According to circus information the morning event is provided to allow everyone to meet and learn about the circus family, the performers, circus history and the animals. The circus report says “This is a special part of Circus Day and should not be missed!”

The evening shows are at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. with advanced discount tickets now on sale in Tama at- Lincoln Savings Bank, J&V NAPA Auto Parts, El Gallito Grocery, Jiffy South, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Tama City Clerk’s Office and in Toledo: at The State Bank of Toledo and Pinnacle Bank.

Even better yet, the Tama Fire Department, Ambulance Service and Police Department are sponsoring the circus and will receive a share of the sales to benefit their public service efforts.

A news release from the circus says, “Now in its 34th edition, C&M Circus has become internationally known for quality family entertainment.

“This authentic One-Ring, Big Top Circus has been featured on National Geographic’s Explorer TV series, Entertainment Tonight, The Los Angeles Times, The Chicago Tribune, Arizona Highways Magazine. It has also been featured on the A&E Special: Under the Big Top and most recently, On the Road with Circus Kids, a Nickelodeon special featured on the Nick News Program.”