Tyler, United States - March 01, 2025 Chaos erupted late today at the Sharon Shrine’s “Potentate’s Ball.” PETA supporters crashed the event to confront new Potentate Mike Cowan. They demanded he stop the Shrine’s use of animals in circuses. The showdown turned heads. PETA claims the Shrine’s practices are cruel. “In nature, elephants help each other survive,” said Tracy Reiman, PETA’s Executive Vice President. “But Sharon Shrine forces them to balance on pedestals.” She urged Cowan to kick off his leadership by ending animal circuses. Many other Shrines have already done so, she added. The Sharon Shrine Circus often works with Carson & Barnes Circus. Undercover videos show trainers shocking elephants with electric prods. They also beat them with bullhooks—sharp, poker-like tools that scare elephants into obedience. The pain is hidden from the crowd. Carson & Barnes has a dark record. It’s been cited over 100 times for breaking the Animal Welfare Act. Violations include denying animals vet care, space, shelter, and clean water. PETA says some think Shrine circuses help kids. They call it a myth. Ticket money doesn’t go to charity. It pays for the club’s upkeep and events instead.