Circus tumbles into town

What do you get when you cross kids wearing orange foam hair and the Jesse White Tumblers?A whole lot of excitement in a Palatine elementary school gym.On Wednesday, students at Gray M. Sanborn School were treated to a tumbling performance, a junior high band and other circus-type hoopla.It was part of a promotional event by Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White and Ringling Bros. and Barnum Bailey Circus that kicked off an initiative to give out 10,000 free circus tickets to underprivileged kids. Bello, a well-known circus clown was the theme at the school. He's known for his tall orange hair, which is why all the students put on fake hair to get in the mood.White and Palatine Mayor Rita Mullins were part of the celebration. White joined in on the tumbling action warning students "not to try this at home."His other advice?"In life, you should always look up. The only time you look down is to tie your shoes," he told kids."Bellobration" is the latest edition of the circus, which will come to the Allstate Arena in Rosemont Nov. 1-11. It will be at the United Center Nov. 13-25.Tickets are expected to be handed out to families in the area. In Palatine, they are being given out by the Palatine Opportunity Center. 512319From left, Gray Sanborn students Brooke Edwards, Max Curl, Daniel Jang and Matt Helms watch for Jesse White tumblers to go over their heads.Bill Zars | Staff Photographer