2016-05-0Calliope_sept-oct-lo

For Members of Clowns of America International
September / October 2016
Volume 33 • Number 5

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
DIRECTORS
President
Michael B. Cox
9415 Alameda Ave.
Richmond, VA 23294
804.270.1165 (H)
804.337.6143 (C)
coai.president.mike@gmail.com
Vice President
Julie Varholdt
4601 S Kachina Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
480-838-7781
JulieCoaivp@cox.net
Secretary
Dan Langwell
54990 Ehman Lane
Mishawaka, IN 46545
574-904-9643
laughingstockpro@yahoo.com
Treasurer
Paddee Embrey
8387 South Carr Street
Littleton, CO 80128
503.949.3077
coaitreasurer@gmail.com
Alley
Region Support
Judy Quest
715 North 36th Street
Omaha, NE 68131-1906
402.551.4185
dearheart@cox.net
Conventions
Sandra Winstead
11801 Riverpark Way
Chesterfield, VA 23838
804.350.3687
strawberry.red1@yahoo.com
Education
Jim Dixon
5323 East Murdock
Wichita, KS 67208
316-871-6705
jdixon2482@gmail.com
Junior Joeys
Regina Wollrabe
Post Office Box 40
Gresham, Oregon 97030
503-807-2584
coaijrjoeys@gmail.com
Your
Membership
Teresa Gretton
3411 Lisa Circle
Waldorf, MD 20601
301.843.8212
gretton@verizon.net
REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS
Northeast
Bill Le Blanc
2 Dee Jay Road
East Bridgewater, MA 02333
508.378.1545
bildabbles@aol.com
North Central
Curt Patty
9335 Berry Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63144
314-496-7824
curt.patty@yahoo.com
Northwest
Alyse Axford
116-A Sudden Valley Dr.
Bellingham, WA 98229-7751
360-647-9229
sales@zigzag-ragz.com
Mideast
Jessica King
1017 6th Ave, Suite 2
Huntington WV 25701
304.542.6046
gabbygayle2005@yahoo.com
Midwest
Georgia Morris
4234 Woodworth
Holt, MI 48842
517.694.7100
clownshananigans@comcast.net
South Central
Lulu Mire
946 Napoli Ct
League city, TX 77573
832-444-9959
lucia555@gmail.com
Southeast
Dianna Hale
1013 Way Thru The Woods
Decatur, AL 35603
256-309-1153
dhale5@att.net
Southwest
Lisa Ponce de Leon Terai
710 Lukepane Avenue, #101
Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
808-271-4190
lolly4upaint@gmail.com
Officers
Canada
Dale McKenzie
867 Raynard Crescent SE
Calgary, AB T2A 1X6
403.273.9047 H
403.606.7750 C
funehappenings@shaw.ca
Latin Countries
Angel Morales
24 RR5 Jardines de
Caparra, Bayamon,
PR 00959
787.565.3205
jobolin2008@aol.com
International
Ted White
20 Maple Court
Yandina, Qld. 4561
Australia
+61 7 5472 8018
twaddles2014@hotmail.com
STANDING COMMITTEES
Audio Visual: Merilyn Barrett 407.844.2862 • klownkop@prodigy.net
Awards Advisory Council (AAC) Teresa Gretton (Chair), 301-843-8212,
gretton@verizon.net. Bob Gretton, Angel Ocasio, Walt Lee, Keith Stokes,
Mike Cox.
Budget Committee: Paddee Embrey (Chair), 503-949-3077,
coaitreasurer@gmail.com Julie Varholdt, Sandra Winstead
Bylaws and Rules: Julie Varholdt (Chair), 480-838-7781 •
JulieCoaivp@cox.net. Ted White, Glenn Kohlberger, Jeanne Wosaka
Clown Week: Carrie Ray, 214.577.6002 • shimmygiggles2011@yahoo.com
Competition: Cathy Mackey (Co-Chair), (518) 784-2127 • ctots@aol.com,
Bill Le Blanc (Co-Chair), Walt Lee, Shirley Lee, John Kral, Paula Le Blanc,
Bob Gretton, Ann Sanders
Ethics & Grievance: Paul Kleinberger 518.489.2680 • fuddiduddy@aol.com,
Glenn Kohlberger, Jeanne Woska
Finance: Julie Varholdt (Chair), 480-838-7781, juliecoaivp@cox.net
Sandra Winstead, Paddee Embry
Good Cheer: Fred Schlosshauer, 973.887.2617 • oscarboj@aol.com
Historians: Walt Lee 410.551.7830 • wally788@verizon.net
Teresa Gretton • tgretton@comcast.net
International Ambassador Program: Bob Gretton, 301.843.8212 •
bunkytclown@comcast.net
Junior Joeys: Regina Wollrabe (Chair) 503.807.2584 • coaijrjoeys@gmail.com
Trudi Sang, Maria Shafer, Katrina Monaco, Bob and Teresa Gretton, Dawn Pearson
Membership: Teresa Gretton (Chair) 301.843.8212 • gretton@verizon.net
Glenn Kohlberger, Mary Ann Ross, and Bob Gretton
Parliamentary Procedure Advisor: Cleon Babcock 515.266.6530 •
ccbabcock@aol.com
Public Relations: Bonnie Love, 619.282.9668 •
bonbonsandiego@yahoo.com
Scholarship: Jim Dixon, 316.871.6705 •
jdixon2482@gmail.com, Lulu Mire, Judy Quest
2 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

September / October 2016
Volume 33 • Number 5
Published by
Clowns of America International
The mission of Clowns of America
International is to organize all members
desiring to pursue the honorable
profession or art of clowning and the
dedication toward its advancement and
the education of its members.
COAI Business Office
Post Office Box 122
Eustis, Florida 32727
Telephone:
1-877-816-6941(toll-free)
1-352-357-1676
Hours: Monday-Friday
9:30 a.m.—4:00 p.m. (EST)
E-mail: coaioffice@aol.com
Website: www.coai.org
Magazine Production
SPS Publications, Inc.
Copy Editors
Rose Cardenas
Sarah Haines
Graphic Design
Jessica Friend
Bryan Conroy
Creative Consultant
Regina “Cha Cha” Wollrabe
Publication Deadlines
November/December 2016—October 1
January/February 2017—December 1
March/April 2017—February 1
May/June 2017—April 1
July/August 2017—June 1
September/October 2017—August 1
Send ads and articles to
thenewcalliope@gmail.com.
The New Calliope (ISSN 1072-1045)
is published bi-monthly (January/
February, March/April, May/June,
July/August, September/October,
November/December) by COAI, 800
South Ave., Eustis, Florida 32726.
Periodicals Postage Paid at Eustis,
Florida, and additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes
to: The New Calliope, COAI Business
Office Manager • Post Office Box 122,
Eustis, Florida 32727.
The New Calliope articles are protected
by U.S. copyright and international
treaties and may not be copied without
the express permission of Clowns of
America International, which reserves
all rights. Re-use of any of The New
Calliope editorial content and graphics
online, in print or any other medium for
any purpose is strictly prohibited.
© 2016 COAI
Clowns of America International, Inc.
COVER: Northland Clown Guild, Alley 217, will
host the 2017 COAI Convention in Kansas City,
Missouri, with headliners Dustin and Brandon.
Design by Regina Wollrabe.
OUR COVER
4 Alley 217’s Super Duper COAI Convention Juanita Blackwell
HOW-TO
7 Get Organized with Miz Daisy Crissy “Miz Daisy” Melnitzke
18 How to Get Them to Stand Still Julie “Lovely Buttons” Varholdt
19 Cleaning Your Santa Suit and Beard
Patricia “Pricilla Mooseburger” Manuel
24 Telephone Scripts: Do You Have One? Hal “Halaloo” Grant
INSPIRATION AND HUMOR
10 Stump Your Partner—NOT Brian “Topper” Lees
12 Experience: A Key to Finding Our Character
Aurora “Bebop” Krause
14 Junior Joeys Regina “Cha Cha” Wollrabe
22 Jasper the Friendly Ghost Samuel Patrick Smith
OFFICIAL BUSINESS
8 From the President Mike “Bonkers” Cox
9 The Vice President’s Report Julie “Lovely Buttons” Varholdt
28 From the Membership Director Teresa “Blondi” Gretton
33 Mideast Region Report Jessica “Gabby” King
28 Competition Corner
NEWS
6 2017 COAI Annual Convention
11 COAI Insurance
16 COAI at Chocolin Festival Angel “Jobolin” Morales
26 Red Nose Day in Ravello William Gillespie
32 Clown Calendar
34 The Last Walk-Around
MISCELLANEOUS
2 Officers, Directors, and Committees
29 COAI Registration and Renewal Form
30 Formulario de Applicacion y Renovacion
31 Our Good Cheer List
37 Advertising in The New Calliope
38 Welcome, New Members
38 Membership Gifter
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 3
4
7
14
16
22

OUR COVER
Super Duper Kansas City Clown
Convention Coming Right Up!
ALLEY 217 PLANS THE 2017
COAI INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
By Juanita Blackwell
Alley 217, the Northland Clown Guild, is excited to host the thirty-second annual
COAI Convention, once again in Kansas City, Missouri, April 25-30, 2017,
for several reasons. First, we had so much fun hosting the 2012 Convention that we
figured, “Why not do it again?” Second, we feel the experience gained by hosting two
regional and two international conventions in previous years has equipped us to bring
you a most excellent convention experience.
The Northland Clown Guild has been dedicated to the art of clowning for twenty-four
years. Our alley is a group of creative people who love to have fun and bring
joy to others. (Your future joy is the third reason we’re excited about the Convention!)
“One good idea seems to ignite a whole storm of even greater ideas with us,” says Juanita
Blackwell, one of the alley’s newer clowns. This is true of our Convention preparations
and was the case in the planning, building, and execution of our award-winning 2016
parade entry titled, “Wee Babes of Ireland.” The alley has given back to the local community
by participating in the North Kansas City Snake Parade since its inception.
We were ecstatic to move from twelfth place in 2015 to fourth place in 2016 in the
parade float competition. Each spring, we offer a free beginning clown workshop as
another way to give back to the community and further the art of clowning, one of our
alley’s stated purposes for existing.
iStock.com/NoraVector
We are looking forward to offering you
fifty educational workshops to explode
your clown repertoire, fifteen vendors to
expand your cache of professional supplies,
and many activities and events to
excite you!
Our headliners, former Ringling
Brothers and Barnum & Bailey clowns,
Dustin Portillo and Brandon Foster,
will bring COAI clown education and
entertainment to new levels. They are
worth the price of convention registration
alone! They will be sharing their
talents in a Wednesday night show, as
well as answering all our burning queries
in a Q&A session following their
performance.
The Convention week will begin with
Foghorn Leghorn crowing from the nearest
fencepost.
No, that’s not the right script! It will
begin with Registration/Check-in at
9:00 a.m., Tuesday, followed by competition
sign-ups and workshops. (See the
COAI website for complete Convention
schedule details.) Later that night, you
will not want to miss the Opening Night
Dealer and Northland Alley Show featuring
Bugs, Tweety, and Sylvester.
Wednesday, you will feast on delicious
food and hilarity at the Live Cartoon
Game Show Luncheon, complete with
fun prizes. And on Friday, you can get
your groove on at our Cartoony Party
4 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

Dance. Several fun photo opportunities,
comic relief, surprise appearances, and a
Classic Cartoon Costume Contest will
be enjoyed by all. And last, but certainly
not least, the clowns who place in the
COAI competitions will receive their
awards at the ever-so-elegant, yet looney,
Awards Banquet Saturday evening.
To add to the “loon-acy,” we are once
again offering a special VIP package,
called the “Animator Deal,” for an additional
nominal fee of fifty dollars
(Reason #118?). Animators will be entitled
to first or second row seating in all
classes, shows, and competitions; early
seat reservations for the theme party,
luncheon and banquet; and a special recognition
badge, T-shirt, and goodie bag!
“Golly gee willikers, Batman! The value
of these perks greatly surpasses the cost of the
additional fee!”
“Right you are Master Robin (and
it’s Reason #326, too)! Let’s jump on the
Bat Computer pronto before the limited
number of Animator Deals is all gone!”
And “Th-th-th-that’s not all folks!”
We are also excited to announce that
the Hilton has generously extended
the same low Convention room rate
to those of you who may want to arrive
early or stay late. In addition to
having a free hotel shuttle to and from
the airport and places within a fivemile
radius at your service, the nearby
Argosy Casino also provides a free
shuttle from the hotel. Now there’s no
reason to miss the many Kansas City
attractions around town. Just check
out the possibilities at www.coai.org
under the 2017 COAI Convention
tab. Click on “KC Things to Do” on
the drop down menu.
So get your looney cartoony wardrobe
together, practice your clown
skills, and get your funny on by registering
today! Remember, EARLY
REGISTRATION DISCOUNT
ENDS OCTOBER 31. Be one of 250
more reasons (the attendees!) we will be
excited on April 25-30, 2017! TNC
Dustin Portillo and Brandon Foster will headline
at the fun-tastic 2017 COAI Convention.
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 5

6 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

Get Organized
with Miz Daisy
HOW-TO
By Crissy “Miz Daisy” Melnitzke
The Organized Notebook
This issue’s organizing tip deals with note-taking. Whenever you go to a class or convention,
do you love to take notes and keep all the handouts? I do. My intention is to re-type my notes
at home on the computer and have them organized in easy-to-find files. Well, my reality is a folder full of papers in my file
cabinet with no clue what’s really in there.
Then I started taking notes in a cheap composition notebook. You can get them for less than a buck, and you can personalize
the covers, if you choose, so they “spark joy” for you. I take a lot of notes. There is so much valuable information out there,
and it’s impossible to retain it all. Plus, taking notes helps keep me from getting distracted—the “Look, something shiny!”
syndrome. I continue writing in the same notebook until it’s full. That is
great, as far as it goes. Now everything is contained in one place, but I
still can’t find what I need easily or without spending a lot of time. But
wait, there’s more!
One day while browsing on the Internet, I came across a blog at www.
highfivehq.com. A short article about the Highfive Notebook described a
way of organizing your notes that is so simple I wished I’d thought of it.
So I’d like to share it with you, and maybe it will help you also.
1
2
5
4
• Get a lined notebook that suits your needs. Picture 1
• The back page becomes your index. Everytime you take new
notes in the front, you index them in the back. Picture 2
• For example: Lee Andrew’s Birthday Class. Picture 3
• On the back page, your index, create a topic called “Birthdays.”
Picture 4
• Then go back to the first page where your notes began on
Birthdays, and on same line you wrote birthdays in the index,
make a mark on the right edge of paper. Make sure your mark
can be seen when notebook is closed. Picture 5
• After you’ve completed this for various topics, you can see all the
markings on the notebook’s edge. Picture 6
3
6
You can also have pages in front with multiple markings if same page
covers multiple subjects. Perhaps you want to keep track of instructors. If
so, add them to your index as well. Make it work for you.
Someday it would be great having all of this information in the computer,
but for now this works—and it’s something I will do. Finding information
on a topic quickly “sparks joy” for me. TNC
Thanks for reading! E-mail me at crissy@mizdaisyentertainment.com to
share your ideas and successes.
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 7

OFFICIAL BUSINESS
From the President
Mike “Bonkers” Cox
At this writing, it is late summer. For most of you, it has been a busy summer. Now
the fall season is fast approaching, which is sad. I know some of you disagree,
but I am a warm weather clown. Cold or cool weather is not for this clown! Guess I
better enjoy it now, for the cold weather will be here before I know it.
At the July Board meeting, I had the honor of presenting three names to the Board
for appointment to fill three positions on the 2016-2018 Board. All three were voted
on and approved. Your new North Central Regional Vice President is Curt Patty who
resides in St. Louis, Missouri. Your new Northwest Regional Vice President is Alyse
Axford who resides in Bellingham, Washington. The third approved appointment is
that of our newly created position of Director of Junior Joeys—Regina Wollrabe, who
resides in Gresham, Oregon. I also want to recognize COAI’s new Executive Vice
President, Julie Varholdt, Tempe, Arizona; the new Director of Conventions, Sandra
Winstead, Chesterfield, Virginia; and the new Director of Alley Support, Judy Quest,
Omaha, Nebraska. Congrats to all! The new 2016-2018 COAI Board is now made up
of twenty strong members who are ready to lead our organization into the future, and
to accept and overcome all challenges that may occur.
Right now, it is time to get nominations submitted for the Clown Week CHARLIE
Award (individual and Alley). The deadline to submit is October 1, 2016. Please
read the criteria and procedure listed on the COAI website or ask one of the Board
members. Your new Clown Week Chairperson is Carrie Ray. Her contact info can
be found under Standing Committees on page 2 of this issue. Also happening on
October 1, 2016 is the deadline for nominations to be submitted for the Lifetime
Achievement Award. Once again, criteria and procedure can be found on the COAI
website. Submissions must be sent to the Director of Membership, Teresa Gretton.
You can also ask any Board member any question you may have.
Now, I would like to speak of another “forgotten” COAI award—Excellence in
Clowning. It has been almost seven years since we have given this award. Our website
(www.coai.org) offers the following description: “This is a unique recognition of
clowning accomplishment in Clowns of America International. Clowns achieving this
award should feel that it is truly valuable, and that the recognition is most prestigious.
There is no “grandfathering” in this program. Each clown will earn the award on their
own merits. There should be no questions that recipients represent the best there is in
clowning today.”
The last sentence says it all! There are COAI members who qualify because we
represent “the best there is in clowning.” All it takes is a little time to sit down and
create a diary of everything you do as a clown. Follow the criteria set forth. You will
be amazed at how much your “clown” does. Take the time to recognize how much you
do for COAI and clowning. Don’t be shy! Just do it, and you may find that you are
the winner!
At the start of each new Board’s term of office, the Standing Committees are
reviewed and updated. If you would like to serve on one of the COAI Standing
Committees (see page 2 for a list of
committees and their current members),
please contact either Julie Varholdt or
me to let us know of your interest. The
Board and these Committees are here
for you—our membership.
One other point of business to mention:
Bylaw amendments (if any need to
be presented) must be submitted now in
order for the Bylaw Committee to review
and then post in the January/February
issue of The New Calliope. Please contact
the Executive Vice President, Julie, if you
have an amendment to be considered.
An important reminder—if your
membership dues are not paid on time,
you will miss out on receiving your next
issue of The New Calliope! It is important
to keep your membership current. If you
have any questions regarding your membership,
please contact Laurel Smith,
COAI Business Office Manager, at 352-
357-1676 or 877-816-6941. Please do
not get so busy that you forget to pay
your dues. You do not want to miss any
issue of The New Calliope—the greatest
clown publication in the world!
Be safe and pass on that smile!
Make them laugh and forget about all
the troubles in the world! TNC
8 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

OFFICIAL BUSINESS
The Vice President’s Report
Julie Varholdt
What’s Happening
Four score and seven years ago, our clowns brought forth, upon this continent, a new
nose, conceived out of Silly Putty, and dedicated to the proposition that all clowns are
created equal.
Ah, ha! I got your attention! Now let’s get to know each other. A few months ago I
took the office of Executive Vice President of COAI. I’ve learned sooooo much in this
short time on the Board. So many things are evolving and transforming into incredible
adventures that will make this organization the best of the best of the best.
You are lucky to be a member of an organization with such a hardworking Board.
This dedicated group is continuing to put this organization in a better place—a place
where learning is fun and every day is a beautiful opportunity to grow.
Get to know everyone on this Board. (Check out page 2 for photos and contact
information for each Board member.) Get to know your new President. Get to know
your Alley Director, your Membership Director, your Education Director, and your
Convention Director. Get to know your Regional Vice Presidents and stay in touch
with them. They are all here for you. Tell them what is happening in your region. Invite
them to your events and send them your newsletters.
For instance, do you have wonderful ideas that would help make our next convention
the best ever? Do youuu? If you do, then contact our Convention Director and
speak to her about it. Get to know her and find out what it takes to run a convention.
It’s actually quite fascinating to learn all about it.
In addition to the Board members who help run this amazing organization, there
are Standing Committees. These committees are made up of clowns from all over the
world. We are always looking for energetic, smart clowns to help us with committees.
If a committee catches your eye, please contact us and let us know. You might be the
spark that takes us to the next level!
Then there’s our website, which is constantly being updated. Our webmaster is always
coming up with fun photos and silly quotes to keep us entertained. If there is
something you want to see on the website, let us know. Our webmaster is also one
of the people in charge of our Facebook pages. The people who man these pages are
working around the clock to share what is happening in the lives of our COAI members.
I absolutely love seeing what everyone is up to on social media!
And our Membership Director’s life is always on the go. She is not only working
on memberships, she is also in charge of the awards that are given out each year. How
about nominating those special people in your lives that you feel deserve a special
award? It takes time to put together an application, so now is the time to start. Get
your clown buddies to help you with nominations and filling in those forms. COAI
has some incredible members who go above and beyond the call of duty, and nominating
them for those special awards is a wonderful thing to do. For more information,
go to www.coai.org and look under the Awards tab. Or get to know your Membership
Director and ask her.
Finally, there’s me. I’m here for you all
when you have a question or concern. If I
don’t know the answer, I will find someone
who does. Get to know me. In fact
you can go to my website (www.lovelybuttons.com)
and read all about me and
what it is I do. It may be a bit outdated
here and there—I’ve been busy being
your Executive Vice President—so forgive
me. Enjoy the photos and the fun.
That’s who I am. I love what I do and I
do what I love.
Remember, by getting to know all of
us, we will get to know you. We are here
for you!
Until next time, remember to be the
best you can be at everything you do,
and give 120% at all times. J TNC
CLOWNS OF AMERICA
INTERNATIONAL
Annual Membership
Individual Members—$40
Seniors (65+)—$30
Junior Joey—$30
Family Membership—$20
Lifetime Membership—$1,000
E-Membership—$30
International E-Membership—$20
$20 of the COAI membership includes
a one-year subscription to The New
Calliope magazine. Subscriptions
are not a benefit of the family
memberships. (Only the Individual
Membership in the household receives
The New Calliope.)
Send membership dues to:
Clowns of America International, Inc.
Post Office Box 122 •
Eustis, FL 32727
Make all checks payable to COAI.
Join or renew by calling
352-357-1676
or visit www.coai.org
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 9

INSPIRATION AND HUMOR
Stump Your Partner—NOT
By Brian “Topper” Lees
There are games where stumping your partner is a good thing, but when working
with other clowns, it is not. I have always been able to work in front of an audience.
My mom and dad started me tap dancing before I could ride a bike. I have been
in front of an audience, in some form of entertainment or another, my entire life. That
means I am very comfortable in front of an audience and able to ad-lib at will.
When I am working with other experienced clowns, it has always been fun to relax
and let the skit go the way we want to, each ad-libbing our own special twists. The skit
always opened and finished by script, but beyond that we played off each other and
everyone had a lot of fun. However, when I work with a clown that is not as experienced
or comfortable in front of an audience, I follow the script almost word for word.
I have seen other clowns freeze because their partner took liberties with the script
and ad-libbed to the point that the clown was totally lost. The look in their eyes
screams, “Now what am I supposed to do?” In most instances they just stand there.
They don’t know where they are in the script and have no idea what the partner is
getting them into.
If you have ever been pushed out in front of an audience like a stupid mannequin,
you know how it feels. You have promised yourself that you would not put anyone else
in that situation. But for those who have never been exposed like that, they just keep
sabotaging their partner. They don’t seem to care and are more than prepared to finish
the skit on their own, leaving the partner to stand there like a prop that is not needed.
When you perform, you are working in a partnership with everyone else. There will
always be a storyline that sets one clown up for the blow off. Depending on the skit,
the main character may deliver most of the lines, but you must always remember that
the performance is best done as a team. Knock-knock jokes don’t work without a
partner asking “Who’s there.” You cannot do the classic Rubber Phone skit with only
one person. The skit is performed as a team.
When I first got started, I was stumped by a clown. Names will not be given, as the
individual is not the source of this article. He only did that to me once. I noticed he
also did it to a couple other clowns. For that reason, I never worked with him again. If
we were doing walk-around, I made sure that he was on one end of the event and I on
the other. When asked if we could do a small show, I told him I had a one-man skit I
wanted to do and was not available to work with him.
You cannot always tell the experience level of your partner ahead of time. There have
been times when a clown I never worked with, or knew, asked me to help with a skit.
We walked out on stage and I was ready for anything. If I varied from the script a
little and there was no problem, it was fine. However, if I added a line or two and the
reaction I saw from the other clown was not comfortable, I went back to the script,
performing my lines word for word.
When working with your partner consider these tips:
1. If they seem to forget their lines, be prepared to pick up the storyline yourself.
Many times, moving a line or two further in the script is all it takes to spark their
memory.
2. If you ad-lib and notice the other clown starting to get concerned – maybe looking
frightened or confused – you need to be prepared to bring your ad-lib back in line
with the script. Using the Rubber Phone as an example: You may wander off-script
as you go into detail telling the other clown about the phone and how to use it.
Many clowns ad-lib with these lines. However, there comes a time when you have
to bring your partner back to you. I
always get their attention first and
then make sure they hear the set up
lines,“Ok? Now wait just a minute.
Listen to me. [Small pause to let my
partner absorb what I just said.] Let
me explain this one more time….”
3. Always remember that there are
more people on stage than just you.
You may be more experienced and a
better clown, but you are not the only
one performing. Share the spotlight,
be courteous, and work with the
team.
Take a moment to think about the
type of person you are to work with.
When the alley is getting ready for a
show, are you one of the first clowns
picked? Do you notice new clowns and
others with less experience reaching out
to work with you? If you are going to do
a skit and need three more clowns, how
many raise their hands to perform with
you? These are strong indicators you are
a fun and comfortable team player.
There are also strong indicators you
need to adjust your attitude and team
player skills. When you are going to do
a skit and need a couple clowns to work
with you, how many raise their hands?
Do you notice some clowns in the room
turn around, pretending they didn’t hear
you ask for help? Think back. Are there
clowns that have worked with you once
or twice, and now just don’t seem to be
available? If so, you need an attitude
adjustment.
There will always be different levels
of relaxation, comfort, and experience
between clowns. Being recognized as a
supportive, team player is your best posture.
We all started somewhere. Do you
remember your first few times on stage?
Were the other clowns team players? If
you made a mistake, did the others work
through it with you? Did you feel secure
working with them? If so, that is the
feeling others need to have when they
perform with you.
Performing should never be like a
game of “Stump the Clown.” Respect
the skill and experience levels of those
you work with. Be a clown who is known
to be fun to work with, supportive, and a
team player. TNC
10 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

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Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 11

INSPIRATION AND HUMOR
Experience a Key to
Finding Our Character
Aurora “Bebop” Krause
Finding our clown character has always been an interesting topic of discussion
among clowns. In my many years of clowning, I’ve always enjoyed taking the
character-development classes that are offered at clown conventions and educational
programs. I’m interested in learning different perspectives and approaches to finding
our individual clown characters. As a clowning instructor, I also offer classes on character
development. I teach this class in full clown in order to deliver the best possible
information and demonstration regarding this topic. One phrase I repeat in my class
is, “Live your character; don’t perform it.” In other words, commit one-hundred percent
to living the character that you are when you’re in full clown.
If you’re having a difficult time finding your clown character, you’re probably working
harder at your clowning efforts than you should be. A well-developed character
that comes from within flows and makes a big difference in building confidence and
comfort into your clowning. Our clown character is not a tangible thing that’s found
in a vendor room or even in a classroom. However, gathering information and learning
the many approaches to discovering our clown character is a good start.
I believe that one approach that’s key to this discovery is getting first-hand experience
in clowning: being in full clown and interacting with our audience, learning how
our character acts and reacts to others and to various surroundings. If you think you
don’t have a clown character, you’re probably right. However, this is a good beginning.
If you’re not enjoying your clowning efforts, you’re working too hard at being a clown
and not just allowing yourself “to clown.” You may not be clowning enough; nothing
takes the place of first-hand experience. It’s here, in the center of the action, where the
best lessons can be learned. If you clown twice a month or less, you’re not clowning
enough to experience the clown that lives within. You need real clowning opportunities
in order to grow.
If you belong to a local Clown Alley, participate in Alley gigs as often as possible. If
you don’t have a Clown Alley nearby, offer to clown at nursing home or assisted living
facilities, fundraisers or community charity events. Networking with individuals that
can open doors of opportunity for you
can be very beneficial. Work at finding
your clown character by stepping out,
taking small risks, and being vulnerable.
You don’t want to hurt yourself or anyone
else; you just want to give yourself options
to grow and discover. Who is this
character that lives inside? What are his
likes and dislikes? What does he excel
in? What makes him nervous, happy, or
sad? Your clown character is an ongoing
process of growth that thrives on exposure
to clowning opportunities. I assure
you that you’ll notice when the character
you’ve allowed to surface shows up right
on schedule. All you have to do is allow
his personality to take over, and you’ll
have fun every time you clown!
Our character is our best clown “giveaway.”
We owe it to the art of clowning
to discover our best clown character, one
that gives creditability to the art and a
joyful experience to our audience.
I enjoy hearing from you. Visit Bebop
at www.bebopsworld.com. TNC
HAVE YOU TOLD A FRIEND
ABOUT COAI?
Give an application
or gift a membership
today!
12 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 13

INSPIRATION AND HUMOR
By Regina “Cha Cha” Wollrabe, Junior Joeys Director
Hello, Junior Joeys!
Greetings from sunny Portland, Oregon, where trees are starting
to turn beautiful hues of yellow and orange.
Over the summer, we had several friends and mentors to Junior
Joeys who passed on to clown heaven. I saw how some of our Junior and Teen Joeys
were feeling the pain of losing people who have inspired them. I wondered if they
would want to share something about these people who influenced them so much,
so I asked one of our active and growing Teen Joeys, Nathan King, to write out his
thoughts and feelings. Nathan is fifteen and lives in Ypsilanti, Michigan. His heart
was touched by the loss of three mentor clowns. When I read his words, they touched
my heart deeply.
I hope Junior Joeys will learn from this article, but I truly think it is really for the
adult readers of our organization. Nathan inspires me to keep finding ways to reach
out to all of our Junior Joeys. If you’re an adult member of COAI, consider taking a
Junior Joey under your wing. What you pass on lives on.
Passing the Torch
By Nathan “Woody” King
The clown world has suffered several great losses this summer with the passing
of Janis Roberts, Pat Cashin, and William Kaufman. These great clowns all had a
profound impact on me, not only as a clown but also as a person.
Each of them was the best thing you can possibly be: a clown. They all carried the
mission of making the world a better place through laughter, mirth, and merriment.
Each carried a seed of inspiration from which my creativity and passion for the art of
clowning would grow.
As clowns, it is our tradition to teach—to pass on our art to the next generation. In
the Olympics, this is called passing the torch, which is kept continuously burning. In
many ways we do the same by passing on our traditions. Adults teach Junior Joeys,
take time to talk to them, pass on the stories, and show them how to be the best
clowns they can possibly be. Teaching clowning is the greatest thing I believe a clown
can aspire to do. You are giving a gift to the world, helping a clown to grow and learn
to make this world a much more amazing place.
Each of these clowns carried the flame of our art. Shining brightly, they passed the
light on to everyone around them, including me. However, there comes a time when
these torches must burn out. With respect we humbly acknowledge these amazing
men and women who dedicated their lives to our art form. We acknowledge their
torches have gone out, but most importantly, the fire has been passed on and continues
to blaze.
The beauty in this is that these clowns
have not really died. They continue to
live in each and every one of us. This to
me is the most beautiful and profound
thing to realize—that I have had the
honor and privilege of knowing these
people. And now I have the honor of
carrying their flame on my torch.
Through clowning all of us honor the
lives these people lived. We all do this as
we inspire the next generation of clowns.
We honor those who have come before
us. We respect them. We continue to tell
their stories. We keep them alive.
Once you have this light, you are able
to travel anywhere and illuminate the
darkest corners of the world through
the laughter and love of the Clown. I
get chills thinking about this every time.
We are able to do anything and go anywhere
because we know how to make
people smile and laugh. We know how
to make people forget their troubles and
escape to our wacky world. This is just
one of the many lessons Janis, Pat, and
William taught me.
Although I feel honored to possess
part of their flame, at the same time I
feel a little nervous knowing that I have
a responsibility to keep it going. I challenge
all of us to go out and pass on our
knowledge. Go out and tell the stories
of all the amazing clowns who inspired
and continue to inspire us. It’s been
said many times before: We need clowns
more today than ever.
Pat Cashin. I’d like to tell you my
stories of these people who inspired me
to become the best clown I can be. I did
not personally know Pat Cashin. But
14 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

Pat Cashin.
through my research, I stumbled across
a video of him on YouTube. His style of
comedy, his way of clowning with his
whole being, and his practice of always
being aware that there would be people
watching—all of this impressed me so
much. He was always in the moment. This
was truly amazing for a beginner clown
like me at the time.
Then I stumbled across a video of him
talking about Clown College. When he
told the stories, he was able to take you
there. Clown College became as magical
a place for me as it was for him. His
passion shone through everything he
did. His website gave knowledge and
inspiration to clowns across the globe.
(At this writing, it is still online at www.
clownalley.net.) I was filled with so
much admiration for this man, and I
know he inspired many others as he inspired
me. My heart is with his family.
Janis Roberts. I met Janis Roberts
while on Facebook. We immediately
became friends. On more than one occasion
she called herself my number one
fan. This was extremely humbling for
me. She always encouraged me to keep
doing what I was doing. Her kind words
strengthened me on days when clowning
really did feel like a job. I never met her
in person, but her presence on Facebook
was one that brought me hope and joy
every day. When I found out the news
that she passed on, I felt like I lost a
friend and one of my biggest supporters.
She always gave me feedback. She always
gave me kind words, and she did it with
a great big smile on her face. I know that
she was a clown mom to many people.
You could feel her love, love, love reading
her messages. She really did have the
heart of a clown. Forever, I am going to
miss Mayor Clancy. I will continue to
treat other clowns as she treated me.
William Kaufman, lovingly known
as Peanut, was one of the first people
I ever met in person through my adventures
in clowning. We met at the
American Clown academy in the summer
of 2012. His passion for clowning
and willingness to talk with me, teaching
me not just how to do balloon animals,
puppetry, and magic tricks—but more
importantly how to clown while doing
these things—was truly amazing. He
took me under his wing. In ballooning,
he taught me how to make a great
six-petal flower, a beautiful French poodle,
and a ladybug bracelet. Thank you,
Peanut. He was so amazing at what he
did. He taught by doing and by example.
He had a huge heart, and I will miss my
friend dearly.
If these great clowns were still here, I
think they would tell me to keep doing
what I’m doing. Always continue to
grow. Always continue to learn. Always
continue to pass on what you know.
Janis “Mayor Clancy” Roberts.
Peanut and Nathan.
Again it is an overwhelming privilege
to be able to carry their flame. I hope I
can be half as good a clown as they were.
They would tell me, “Don’t stress out,
kid. Just be yourself.” This rings true for
many of us, as I know we all get nervous
before a big gig from time to time. We
just need to get out there, be ourselves,
and clown. Do it with all our heart and
spread the joy on thick.
The only thing I can say is, “See you
down the road, friends. Heaven has become
a lot funnier.” TNC
GH
I’m so proud of Nathan and other
Junior and Teen Joeys who are growing
in the art of clowning. Do you have a
story to share? Write to me at coaijrjoeys@
gmail.com.
Support
Our
Advertisers!
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 15

NEWS
Clowns of America International at the
Chocolin Festival
SAN PEDRO DE MACORIS, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
By Angel L. Morales
Regional Vice President, Latin Regions
woke up at four o’clock in the morning, packed and ready to head to the Dominican
I Republic for the Chocolin Festival. The Festival is held every two years and celebrates
the art of entertainment and clowning. This year I was excited to inspire and
acquire new members for Clowns of America International.
After a short flight, I arrived at the airport in the Dominican Republic on Sunday,
Father’s Day. The bus was there when I got outside for our thirty-five-minute drive to
San Pedro de Macoris, through streets crowded with vehicles and scooters going in
all directions. Fun, isn’t it? We arrived at the hotel apartments where I was going to
stay, and they were very pleasing and well designed. Coming in one day early allowed
me time to get all of my paperwork done and the COAI banner made. The next day
we had a meeting to explain what we had in store for the week. We met many new
friends, all who had come for the festival from all over the region: Venezuela, Ecuador,
Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Peru, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, United States, Puerto Rico,
and the hosts from the Dominican Republic
This year’s festival was dedicated to two people, one native of the Dominican
Republic and one from the Latin Regions. The Dominican chosen for this honor was
the famous clown, El Payaso Chepon, and from the Latin Regions the honor went to
Puerto Rico’s comical magician, Barry Barry.
On the day before the festival began, many of us went to visit an orphanage for
children in the old section of Santo Domingo and the children’s hospital in the heart
of the city. The bus picked us up—fifty clowns with another thirty that met us at
the site—and we walked through the
hospital. Some stayed there to entertain
the children, and another group headed
off to the orphanage. We started our presentations
there at two o’clock and didn’t
finish until six. Everyone participated,
and the children enjoyed the program
very much. We were given refreshments,
and then we took our bus back to San
Pedro de Macoris. We were all excited
by this field trip.
The next day, the festival started.
Everyone was busy at the registration,
all of the dealers were setting up, and
we met all the newcomers that arrived.
It was great seeing old and new faces,
all out of their clown faces. During the
week, we had many innovative seminars
on face-painting, ballooning, and other
topics related to the art of clowning. I
gave a seminar on behalf of COAI and
spoke about what the judges look for in
Some of the great clowns at the festival.
Rafael the Clown from Puerto Rico.
16 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

competition, what the difference is between local and international
conventions, the COAI scholarship program and its benefits, why The
New Calliope is offered to them as a digital magazine, and other issues
related to the COAI and the festival.
I also had a table where I promoted the COAI and helped answer
questions. During my time at the table, I was invited to visit Peru,
Costa Rica, and Nicaragua. I hope to visit them soon—they are loaded
with future members. On Sunday, the last day of the festival, we had a
parade and an informal awards ceremony, at which we all had Chocolin
Festival T-shirts to wear.
The parade was amazing. We got ready and had a competition first.
It started late, but it finally got off at six o’clock, starting at town square
of San Pedro de Macoris. We walked through the streets of the town,
greeting hundreds of people as the parade grew. We walked more than
two-and-a-half miles to the boardwalk next to the beach where there
was a stage. Each group was called upon to say a few words to the
crowd of children and adults, and we all enjoyed seeing so many happy
faces.
The festival went on until about 7:30 p.m.; everyone was exhausted.
We were transported back to the hotel where we dressed for the
awards ceremony still to come. It was very different than any I’d experienced
before with great food and drinks out and the well-organized
event lasting until 2:00 am. I slept almost all day the next day, and on
Monday I visited Hector Batista, former Alley 378 president. We discussed
their desire to get the Alley going again, which was outstanding
news. I am in the process of working with him to get the paperwork
done, and we will have representation once again in the Dominican
Republic. The next day I packed up and headed back home. It was a
great festival, and I made many new friends. I am so thankful for the
hospitality offered and expect to see them all again in the near future.
Top: Angel Morales (center) with a great magical clown, Tapon
(left) from Venezuela. Bottom: Explaining what to expect at COAI
Conventions.
Left to Right: Barry Barry (left) with clown friends at Chocolin Festival. Angel Morales’ good friend, Pito, from Nicaragua. The Stage Show en el Malacon
de San Pedro de Macoris
Left to Right: Part of the big parade on the streets of San Pedro de Macoris. Yola with two fellow clowns from the Dominican Republic.
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 17

HOW-TO
HOW TO GET THEM TO
Stand Still
By Julie “Lovely Buttons” Varholdt
1
1
Standing still is rarely on a child’s agenda. They wiggle when they get face painted. They
move back and forth while waiting to get a balloon. On stage, they turn in all directions—
and it seems impossible to make them stand still. Until now!
Several years ago I bought some rubber footprints from a friend. You lay them on the floor
and a child is supposed to stand on them when they are helpers in your show. Well, I lost one
of them at an event. It’s kind of hard to get a child to stand on one foot. So I went in search
of more footprints, but I could not find them anywhere. So I decided to make my own.
This project is very simple and only cost around $2.50 to make. Here’s how!
Buy a small floor mat and cut it in half. I found one
at the dollar store that measured about 16 by 24 inches.
Figure 21.
I cut it to make two 12 x 16-inch sections.
Figure 2.
2
3
Next, outline your feet with a marker on some
cardboard. I used an empty box that I found in my
recycle bin. Cut out the feet with scissors and an
Exacto knife. Be careful! Figure 3.
3
4
Pick a color to paint the feet. I used what I had handy in the cupboard—red
and white spray paint. Take the cardboard and mats outside and put down
5
some paper to catch the overspray.
Lay the cardboard cutout over one of the mats. Spray several coats of paint,
letting it all dry between coats. I sprayed about four coats of paint. Figure 4.
I also bought a few rubber place mats. I cut them to fit each mat. These I
hot glued onto the bottom of each mat to keep the mat from slipping when
someone stands on it. Figure 5.
I’ve used these mats not only during my shows, but also when I’ve done
line work for balloons and face painting. The footprint mats work perfectly
because the child now knows where to stand. They actually stand still now! Ta
da! Wasn’t that easy and affordable? Let’s see what we can come up with for
the next time. TNC
5
4
18 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

HOW-TO
If you have some time and patience,
your old ratty wigs can be restored to
their original luster and beauty. We do
warn you that your wig will never look
as pristine and sparkling white as when
you took it out of the package, but that’s
okay! Why? Because kids can spot those
brand-new wigs and beards in a heartbeat.
No one’s real hair looks that perfect
and smooth. Your older wig and beard
are perfectly fine and actually appear
more natural.
I had a friend who brought me a
Santa beard which he had been wearing
every winter for two years and had
never washed. Oh, my! I took before
and after photos so you could see the
difference. Look at the bottom photo of
the yellowed cotton backing behind the
beard. Yuck! After I was done with it, he
couldn’t believe how clean it looked and
smelled.
illustration: istock.com/chrisgorgio
When you perform as Santa Claus at Christmas, your costume can go through a
lot of wear and tear. Sticky candy canes, babies with full diapers, doggies who slobber,
muddy boots, you name it: Santa Claus has seen it all.
I've been renting out professional Santa suits, wigs, beards, and boots from my costume
shop for almost two decades. I have a tried-and-true system to get these important
pieces cleaned, freshened up, and ready for wearing again in forty-eight hours.
Now I am sharing my top-secret Santa laundry tips with you.
New
(Right out of the box)
Styling Santa Claus’ Beard
Worn
(about 2 years old)
Washed and Styled
(same 2 year old beard)
Wig and Beard Cleaning
Instructions
WASHING
Put a nickel-sized drop of Woolite
detergent or synthetic wig shampoo on
your fingers and gently rub areas where
makeup or sweat has stained the hair,
fabric, or netting. If cotton fabric around
the mouth or neck is yellowed, make a
paste of OxiClean, and rub it in with
your fingers. Let it sit ten minutes before
putting the wig and beard in water.
Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm
water, and add a nickel-sized amount
of Woolite detergent or synthetic wig
shampoo.
Soak wig and beard in sink for twenty
to thirty minutes. Check on the stains,
and rub more OxiClean paste into the
cotton, if needed. Continue to soak for
another fifteen minutes. Gently squeeze
soapy water through the fibers several
times. Remove wig and beard from
soapy water.
Drain the sink, and refill it with clean,
lukewarm water.
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 19

Styling Santa Claus Beard and Wig Rehab
BEFORE
AFTER
Gently swish wig back and forth in
clean water to rinse.
Drain dirty water; refill with clean
water. Repeat steps 4 and 5 as many
times as necessary to remove all of the
soap from the fibers.
Put conditioner on your hands and
work gently through the ends of the fibers,
especially on the curls. Repeat steps
4 and 5 as many times as necessary to
remove all of the conditioner.
When it’s clean, gently squeeze
the excess water out of the fibers.
Do NOT wring!
Lay wig and beard on a dry towel, and
roll it up, squeezing the towel to soak up
excess water. Repeat until fibers are just
about dry.
Gently shake wig and beard. Put the
wig on an open wig head to dry. For the
beard, clip a skirt hanger to the sides of
fabric to hang dry. Have a towel under
the wig head and hanger to catch the
dripping water. It should air-dry in ten
hours or overnight.
If only the mouth area is dirty and the
rest of the beard hair seems clean, you
can just wash the mouth area by holding
onto the dry hair, dipping the mustache
into the soapy water and following the
above instructions.
A few things to keep in mind:
DO NOT place a wig under running
water. This will tangle the fibers.
DO NOT comb a wet wig. This will
pull the fibers out of the cap.
DO NOT use a hair dryer on a wig.
This will melt the synthetic fibers.
20 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

STYLING
Once the wig and beard are dry, you
can start to work out the snarls. Working
near the bottom of the curls, use a widetoothed
comb or plastic-toothed brush,
preferably one without the little nubs at
the top of each bristle.
Hold a clump firmly in one hand so it
doesn’t pull the fibers out of the netting
while you pull the brush through the
end. Work the curls around your thumb
and fingers, smoothing them.
After you have one clump combed all
the way through, clip off any frizzy bits
at the very end.
You can put a small amount of “flexible
hold” mousse or styling gel on the ends
of the curls and put the hair into curlers.
We recommend the plastic hollow curlers,
but you can also use sponge rollers.
Be careful that the plastic bits don’t leave
a crimp or dent in the hair.
Start on the next clump of curls, and
repeat steps 2 through 4 until the wig
and beard are all done. Leave the mustache
area for last. Use extra attention in
smoothing out the fibers.
Leave the curlers in for at least twenty-four
hours. When you take the curlers
out, be very gentle when loosening the
fibers from around the sponge. If you
have time to let it sit a while before you
have to wear them, spray a little bit of
CURLERS / ROLLERS
hair spray over all of the hair. If you are
at the end of the season and are washing
the wig and beard for the last time, you
can leave the curlers in during storage.
y
STORAGE
Put curlers around the bangs in the
wig and end curls in both the wig and
beard. Lay them flat onto white or undyed
tissue paper, and roll up gently. Set
them on a shelf or set in a cardboard box
without the lid on. Air circulation is important.
Do not enclose them in a plastic
bag or box!
Santa Suit Cleaning
Instructions
WASHING
If your hat, coat, pants, and gloves are
made out of cotton and/or polyester, you
can machine wash them.
Attend any stains ahead of time, and
let sit to break up stains. If gloves are
dirty, let soak in a solution of OxiClean
at least one hour, and then rub a paste
of OxiClean into the fingertips before
putting in the washing machine.
Zip up and snap shut all suit openings.
Turn coat and pants inside out. Wash the
suit in cold water with liquid detergent
on the gentle cycle.
You can dry the gloves and pants in
the dryer on low with a softener sheet.
Do not put anything with fake fur in the
dryer. It will be too hot for the fur and
will make it matted.
Turn coat right-side out, unzip, and
hang on a strong hanger to air dry. Clip
the hat to a skirt hanger, and let it hang
to dry.
While coat and hat are still damp, use
a metal pet brush to comb the white fur
straight down.
If non-cloth items (suspenders, boot
covers, belt, etc.) are dirty, wipe them
with a damp cloth. Use a wooden skewer
to pick the stones and dirt out of the
bottom of your boot treads. Your hat
and belly pad won’t usually need washing
after every use, but they should be
washed once before you store them for
the year.
In between uses, you can use spray disinfectant
on any areas that were in contact
with sweat if you don’t have time to
properly wash everything before the
next use.
STORAGE
Don’t fold the belt flat because the
Naugahyde will get dents and bends in
it which won’t easily come out. Instead,
roll it up loosely, and store it standing up
on its edge. Zip up and snap all closures
on coat and pants. Hang pants and coat
on hangers. Put hat, boot covers, belt,
suspenders, and gloves in a big paper bag
or cardboard box with a lid with holes
or no lid at all. Air circulation is important.
Hang a dust cover or garment bag
over the top of the hanger. Make sure
the bottom is left open. Do not store in
direct sunlight.
A note about disinfectant: We used to
go through a dozen cans of germ-killing
aerosol disinfectant every year at my
rental shop. This was unhealthy for us to
breathe in, and it wasn’t very good for the
fabric, but it was our only option to kill
the germs when washing wasn’t possible.
A few years ago a new product came on
the market. It’s called Sol-U-Mel from
the company, Melaleuca. We pour a little
into a spray bottle and dilute it with
water. It contains Tea Tree oil and natural
ingredients which kill everything that
the name-brand disinfectant did, but it
smells better and is safer for us and the
fabric. When you think about the fact
that you put the beard right up to your
nose and mouth and breathe through
it, it really makes a difference how you
disinfect it! Sol-U-Mel works like a
charm to help our wigs and costumes
stay smelling clean in between washings.
If you have any questions about how
to care for your Santa suit or other costumes,
please feel free to give me a call
at 320-963-6277 or e-mail pricilla@
mooseburger.com. I’m here to help! TNC
Tricia Manuel is “Pricilla Mooseburger”
and is a long-time member of COAI. She
has been operating Mooseburger Clown
Arts Camp and Pricilla Mooseburger
Originals since 1989. More clown
educational articles can be found on her
blog at www.mooseburger.com.
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 21

INSPIRATION AND HUMOR
Effect
A make-believe ghost appears, disappears, turns into a comical skeleton, and finally
re-appears on a volunteer’s back.
Props Needed
• Two silks, same color (I use 9" x 9" orange silks).
• Change bag (available from magic shops)
• Rubber skeleton (mine is 12" long).
• Large magic wand (Topsy Popsy Wand or Pop-Away Wand)
• Honker horn.
• Set of giant beagle-puss glasses (the kind with the bushy eyebrows and a big nose).
Set-up
Put the rubber skeleton and one of the silks in one compartment of the change
bag. Make sure the silk is covering the skeleton. Then switch the compartments so
the bag appears empty.
Conceal the beagle-puss glasses, magic wand, and second silk behind your table. Roll
a two-inch strip of masking tape backwards with the sticky side out, and put it on one
corner of the second silk.
Routine
I use this routine following a trick in which something disappears. Looking around
for the vanished object, I say, “Now where in the world could that have gone? That was
a pretty wonderful trick. In fact, it was
a better trick than I could have done.”
Now, begins the routine.
“There must be…a ghost in this room,
playing a trick on us, and I’ll bet it’s
Jasper the Friendly Ghost! Hey, Jasper,
are you in here?” Looking around, spy
something behind your table.
“I think he’s backstage. [Bring out
the change bag.] I believe he’s in here.
When I snap my fingers, Jasper will
come out of this bag and fly over your
heads.” Emphasize the phrase, “fly over
your heads” by pronouncing each word
slowly. As you say it, gesture with your
hand toward the audience, as if pointing
out the path that Jasper will take.
“Here goes: One! Two! Three!” Snap
your fingers and pretend to follow
him out of the bag straight up into
the air. Do a double-take as you realize
he hasn’t appeared. Look back into
the bag with an expression of surprise
and confusion.
“Maybe he’s asleep. I’ll wake him up.”
Pick up the horn. Peer into the bag. Now,
speaking softly, say,
“Hey, Jasper. Jasper. It’s time to wake
up.” Point the horn into the bag and
honk it loudly. Your soft-spoken “wake
up” followed by a loud, inconsiderate
honking horn is a funny contrast. Repeat
this gag.
Then, for the third time, say, “Jasper.
Time to get up.” Honk! Honk! Lean
down to peer into the change bag and let
your right hand with the horn go behind
your back. Do this as a natural gesture, as
you would rest the back of your hand on
your hip.
As you are peeping into the bag, allow
the audience to get completely quiet in
anticipation of what you will find. Then
honk the horn behind your back. Jump
in surprise and turn quickly around to
see what caused the noise. In mock disgust,
toss the horn aside and continue
your patter.
“All right, Jasper. That does it. I’m
coming in after you.” Poise your hand
22 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

over the bag, and plunge in to grab him.
Look disappointed as you discover the
bag is empty. He’s not there! [Softly.]
“You know what we need? We need
someone so quiet that he could sneak
up and grab him before he knows what’s
happening. How about…you.” Select
a boy, preferably a fairly hefty child of
eight or nine. You have been speaking
softly, so the children should be quiet. If
you do this right, they will not be jumping
up and down screaming, “Me!” Bring
the boy to the stage, positioning him to
your right.
“Hi, there. What’s your name? Austin?
Are you afraid of ghosts? I didn’t think
so. You probably don’t even believe in
them. I certainly don’t. But I’m glad we
have someone brave enough to look for
Jasper. Do you see any ghosts in the bag?
No? Do you see anything at all in the
bag?” Turn the bag inside out, and as he
is looking, get it closer and closer to his
face until you are covering his eyes.
“Austin says he can’t see a thing! Now,
let’s see if he can round up Jasper. Austin,
hold your hand over the bag and snap
your fingers. Perfect. [Switch to the
compartment holding the silk and rubber
skeleton.] Do you see anything now?
[He should see only the silk.] You do?!”
Peer into the bag, and say, enthusiastically,
“Yes, ladies and gentlemen, it’s
true! Here he is…Jasper…the Friendly
Ghost…dressed up like a handkerchief!”
Pull out the silk, holding it high in the
air for display.
“Here you go, Austin. Hold onto Jasper.
Hold him high in the air. Hey, stop that!
[Disgustedly.] Don’t
pull his nose!” Whisk
the silk away from him,
turn it around, then give
it back.
“And now, for the
magic of Austin and
Jasper! [Flip the change
bag to the other compartment.]
Place Jasper
into the bag. That’s
right, push him all the
way into the bag.”
The boy now has his
hand inside the change
bag. Remark, offhandedly,
“Watch out
for spiders.”
Continue: “Now,
Austin, hold your hand
over the bag and snap
your fingers again. Jasper
the Friendly Ghost will
disappear. [Switch the
bag back to the side
with the skeleton.] Yes,
it’s true, he’s really gone.
Reach into the bag and
see if you can find him.”
The boy reaches in and
discovers the rubber skeleton. Usually, he
will gingerly pull it out and display it to
the audience, holding it by the head. But
you don’t notice.
“It’s really amazing, Jasper is completely…hey!
That’s disgusting! That’s
not Jasper—it’s Mr. Bones!” Take the
skeleton from the boy.
“Mr. Bones, how are you doing? You’ve
lost weight, I see.” Hold the skeleton to
your ear as if he’s telling you something.
“You’re going to beat me up? Ha! You
don’t have the guts!
“Mr. Bones, you just relax over here.”
Absentmindedly slam him down on
your table.
This next bit is particularly funny to
the audience and quite baffling to the
child, so don’t overlook it. Like a lot of
children’s routines, it plays better than it
reads!
Say, “We’ve got to find Jasper. Austin,
try snapping your fingers again. Maybe
that will work.” Hold the bag at an
angle so the boy can’t see you flipping
the change bag to the side with the silk.
After he snaps his fingers, tip the bag
so he can see the silk. Keep it just far
enough away so he can’t snatch it out.
“Is he back? Yes? Quick! Pull him
out! Yes, ladies and gentlemen, once
again, the amazing…you what? You
can’t find him? I thought…oh, well.
Let’s try again. Snap your fingers.”
Repeat the ruse, letting him see the silk,
but as he reaches for it, flip back to the
empty compartment.
“I know what the problem is! Jasper’s
afraid of you. He knows you’re after
him. But don’t worry. I’ve got a disguise
for you so he won’t know who you are.”
Step behind the table and bring out the
beagle-puss glasses. This gets a roar. Put
the glasses on the boy, and then position
him so he is directly facing the audience.
While the audience is laughing, return
to your table to get the giant wand. You
will also pick up the duplicate silk with
masking tape on the corner.
“Since this is an especially important
job, I’m going to give you an extra large
magic wand.” Take the wand in your left
Continued on page 32.
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 23

HOW-TO
By Hal “Halaloo” Grant
In most cases, a telephone script makes things go more smoothly. The following is
what I use; feel free to take bits from it, and find out what works for you. If you go
to an event and something does not go as planned, ask yourself, “Is there a question I
could have asked at the time of booking that would have prevented this ‘bump’ in the
road?” Be professional.
First of all, don’t ever answer the phone if you are not wide awake. Always answer
with a smile—and make sure your answering machine message has a smile, too.
The following questions should be answered by anyone who answers the phone:
Who answered the phone (i.e., you, your spouse, the answering machine,
someone else)?
Date of call
Person’s name (be sure you use the person’s name as you converse on the call)
Type of event or party
Time of event
Date of event
The following points need to be discussed when you speak to the person personally.
Length of event
What do they want you for? What type of skills are they looking for?
Tell them what you can offer. Go over the details of the show or event. Keep asking
for more information and make suggestions as to what might work for them. In most
cases, the person doesn’t have extensive experience planning events.
If you cannot meet their needs, have a list of entertainers that you can recommend.
Only recommend those whom you would hire! If you recommend them, your reputation
is on the line as well as theirs.
Do not give a price until they know
what you can do for them.
Name of event
Their address
Location of event. Remind them that
other groups may also be involved in the
event and activities or venues may need
to be booked. Also, ask if the venue has
additional fees and who will be covering
them.
Address details and nearest crossroads
Name and age of birthday child, as
well as brothers’ and sisters’ names and
ages
How did they find you? What type of
advertisement or contact was it?
Remind them that you are a performer,
not a babysitter. Insist that at least one
adult must be in the room with you at
all times.
Also ask that, if it is a birthday party
or similar celebration, the cake be served
after the performance.
Find out if there will be other entertainment
and what it will be. If it is a
small event, ask that all other entertainment
stops during your performance.
24 The New Calliope • September/October 2016 Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 24

Bigger events may have many things
going on at the same time.
Will you be performing inside or
outside? What is the alternative plan
if weather doesn’t allow for outside
performance?
Are there any pets at the venue? Ask
that they are not in the same location
as the performance and that the area be
clean.
Is there a theme for the event?
If it is a large event, ask if sound equipment
is available.
Is there a stage or will you perform
from the floor?
What items can be moved out of the
area? What cannot be moved? (For large
events, get to the venue early so that you
can check the area where you will be
performing.)
Will the audience be sitting on chairs
or on the floor?
Give them your cost and the name to
whom the cheque should be made out.
Spell the name for them, and remind
them that you will confirm the event with
them three to seven days before it is to
take place.
Make sure all the information you
have received is correct. Go over all the
answers with them.
Thank them for choosing you. Ensure
that they know they can call you with
any questions.
“If you feel the person is just
calling around for the lowest
price, take some time to
educate them.”
Tell them you will see them on the
date of the event.
If I realize that I do not have all the
information I need after the initial
phone call, I make sure to get it when
I call to confirm. I try to leave the
discussion about costs until after I have
described what I can do for them. For
performances at churches, I ask for an
honorarium – this works for me.
Get as many details as you can. Try to
get something that you can use in the
show. This is why I ask about the theme.
For example, if I am to perform at a
church event, I ask what scripture verses
they have been using. This shows them
that you really want to be there. Ask if
anyone will be celebrating a special day?
If it is a birthday party, ask about the
birthday child. What are his/her favorite
things? Try to work these into the show.
These are things that may help you stand
out as a performer. Asking questions will
make your work easier for you and make
you appear more professional.
I have laminated my interview sheet
and keep it in the inside cover of my book
for bookings. I use a dry-erase marker to
check things off as I ask questions.
I didn’t mention it in the list above,
but when I’m speaking to a customer, I
also give them some simple questions to
answer to make the event go smoothly.
These include:
When should the guests arrive?
How much unstructured time the
children need before the entertainment
arrives?
What can they do if guests have a fear
of clowns?
“I try to leave the discussion
about costs until after I have
described what I can do
for them.”
Encourage them to put breakables
away.
If you feel the person is just calling
around for the lowest price, take some
time to educate them. If you ask how
they found you and find that it was a
referral from another entertainer or past
booking, make a note of it and make sure
to send them a thank-you note. (I find
the people that book me for an event
year after year tend to do this more.) I
had so many referrals coming from one
preschool centre that I sent them gift
certificates for a local coffee shop as a
thank you. Some performers give a discount
to anyone who makes ten referrals.
Personally, that involves too much bookkeeping,
but all types of appreciation go
a long way.
Every church that invites me to minister
at their events receives a thank-you
letter. It is very simple, just thanks them
for partnering with me. It also says that
any funds that come in through ministry
events stay in ministry – for example,
those funds have helped me go on mission
trips to Nicaragua. Thanking people
for having you at their events is huge!
Many entertainers out there don’t do
this. Stand out from the crowd!
I would love to see what other entertainers
use for telephone scripts, so if you
have a telephone script or questionnaire,
or if there is something you feel I’ve left
out, please send it my way.
As always, e-mail or regular mail is
always welcome!
Be the best clown you can be, and then
get better! TNC
Hal “Halaloo” Grant
halaloo@cogeco.ca
www.Halaloo.com
RR#2
Smithville, Ontario
Canada L0R 2A0
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 25

NEWS
Town center of Ravello, Italy.
photo credit: wikipedia commons/sudodana2048
By William Gillespie
My daughter, wife, and I visited the
charming village of Ravello, Italy, in
May. We were there during Red Nose
Day, the fund-raiser and “fun-raiser” that
benefits children in need domestically
and abroad.
I have been to Ravello a number of
times, going back to 1982 when I was
stationed in Naples serving in the U. S.
Navy in the Naval Criminal Investigative
Service. Shortly after arriving in Italy all
those years ago, I visited the wonderful
old-fashioned village of Ravello and fell
in love with it. On one occasion, I met
Giorgio Filocamo, owner of the Coral
and Cameo Factory located on the town
square. We became good friends.
In 1985, while visiting Giorgio at his
home, he asked me where the naval base
got its milk and meat. I told him it came
from England. He asked me if I had
heard about the nuclear plant disaster
in Chernobyl. Of course, I had. Giorgio
said that Italy was experiencing fallout
from Chernobyl. He asked if it were possible
for me to bring milk and meat for
his two daughters and for the butcher’s
three children. I saw no harm in taking
him these items along with some peanut
butter, an item they don’t have there.
Every Saturday, I would load up twenty
gallons of milk, some meat, and peanut
butter for these children. They were
all extremely grateful.
Fast forward to 2016. When we arrived
in Ravello, I went into a small grocery
store to pick up a few items, and the
storekeeper, in broken English, asked if
it was my first time in Ravello. I told him
no, that I had been there many times
and had been coming there since 1982. I
could see that his face begin to light up.
He asked me my name. When I told him
“Bill Gillespie,” he pointed to me with
a big smile on his face and said, “You,
you…are the man that brought milk,
meat, and....” He described to his wife
what there isn’t a word for in Italian. She
brought me a bag of peanuts and some
butter. I looked at them and then it came
to me. I said, “Peanut butter.”
26 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

INSPIRATION AND HUMOR
Left: Ravello’s barista, Pina Calce, joined in the fun. Right: Bill and Umberto, son of the butcher, on Red Nose Day a few decades after they met.
Left: Face painting in the piazza. Bill Gillespie and Samantha Zoungla. Right: Catia and Veronica, granddaughters of Alfonso Sorrentino, the butcher.
“Yes,” said Umberto, the shopkeeper, “I love that peanut butter.”
He said that his father, the butcher, always wondered what
had happened to me. Umberto contacted his sister, Veronica, and
their father, Alfonso. We had breakfast together the following
morning, and the next evening Alfonso took us to dinner. I found
out that Alfonso is a big admirer of magic, and he was blown
away by the show I put on.
While we were there, it was Red Nose Day. Umberto and my
friend, Giorgio, put on a red nose, and we celebrated the fun and
joy that clowns bring wherever they go. Although I didn’t take
my costume this trip, I did take some face paints. One afternoon
I sat in the town square (piazza), set up my face paints, and painted
the children playing in the square, as well as a few adults. Next
year, I hope to return and make arrangements at an orphanage,
elementary school, or even the town piazza to do a clown magic
and balloon show, followed by face painting.
What fun! Anyone want to come? TNC
Contact Bill Gillepsie at gypsyfriend937@gmail.com.
CLOWN ALLEY
WORKSHOPS
with
FUN
ENTERTAINING AND
EDUCATIONAL!
VISIT BEBOP AT:
www.bebopsworld.com
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 27

OFFICIAL BUSINESS
From the Membership Director
Teresa “Blondi” Gretton
As Membership Director, I am fortunate to work with all the board members on
many tasks, but I work the most with the president. Over the past several years,
Glenn Kohlberger has worked diligently in bringing ideas to this great organization
which have caused our financial status to rebound and upped the ante on membership-driven
programs. He will be greatly missed on the board.
Congratulations to Mike Cox, the new COAI president. I’ve known Mike for many
years. We are members of “sister” alleys in the Virginia/Maryland areas. He is very
knowledgeable in policy and procedure and will continue to enhance and protect the
strengths of COAI. We also welcome our new board members. To those who have left,
thank you for your service to the greatest clown organization in the world.
I’m still reeling over our great Vegas Convention in April. We had so many wonderful
moments. A couple of those not mentioned in my last article deserve some
recognition. The Bluzzzz Bros (a.k.a. Dave and Dana Hill) electrified the audience
with their performance and on-stage interaction at the Welcome and did a fantastic
job as auctioneer, raising a huge amount for the COAI education fund. Meeting new
faces, such as our first-time attendees (seventy-seven strong), shaking hands, giving
and receiving hugs, posing for pictures, and laughing with our global friends created
amazing memories. A total of 267 were in attendance, from the continental US
(225), Hawaii (5), Puerto Rico (8), Taiwan (8), Australia (3), Canada (7), Dominican
Republic (1), Mexico (2), Belgium (2), England (1), Barbados (2), China (1), Japan
(1), and Guatemala (1), adding so much fun, diversity and camaraderie throughout
the convention.
Having so many mentors answer questions from the new conventioneers warmed
my heart. The mentors were present and past board members, competition winners,
Clowns of the Year, Lifetime Achievers, and veteran convention participants, such as
Bill “Peanut” Kauffman (who came in a wheelchair, creating smiles) and Bonnie “Bon
Bon” Love (who came with a brand new knee and received her other new knee a week
later). I couldn’t begin to name all who assisted in building the mentor program into
such a successful endeavor. Thank you for making my job easier.
A huge thank you also goes out to Bob “Bunky” Gretton. He’s done an exemplary task
through many years as chairman of International Clown Week, promoting our very own
Competition Corner
You’ve arrived at the convention and want to compete. What’s next? Review the convention schedule. It will give
you the date, time, and locations for registration. You must register for competitions during the times listed.*
special week of the year (August 1-7).
Thank you to Carrie “Shimmy Giggles”
Ray, who has stepped up to take on the
job. She has already begun promoting
and educating, and Bob has agreed to assist
in the transition. Carrie hopes to see
many of you submit CHARLIE Award
scrapbooks (hard book or digital), showing
what fun you’ve had in spreading
smiles to children of all ages. Check the
website (www.coai.org) for the details.
Here’s a reminder in case you have
forgotten to renew your insurance with
Brown & Brown. It’s still only $150 a
year, so renew today. Also make sure that
your COAI dues have been paid. You
will only get the great insurance rate if
you are a COAI member in good standing
(with paid dues).
We continue to do well with our
membership. Gifting is occurring more
often. Online alley membership is up,
and Junior Joey membership continues
to grow. Have pride in your Clowns
of America International. Show your
COAI membership on business cards,
flyers, and articles. Promoting our great
organization will continue to produce
new memberships. TNC
Contact Teresa “Blondi” Gretton at
tgretton@comcast.net.
If you want to compete in make-up but are uncertain which category you should enter, bring a picture of yourself,
in make-up and costume, to the Competition Registration. The Competition Chairman will be happy to assist you in
selecting the proper category.
When you go to register, you will need to provide your COAI number, so take your membership card with you. Please note: If you are
participating with a group, all members of the group must provide their COAI numbers.
To learn your line-up position look for the printed lists. They will be posted near the Competition Registration area. From time to time
mistakes happen, so check the lists to ensure your name appears in the correct categories. If there is a problem, please contact a member of
the Competition Committee.
*There is an exception for those unable to arrive at the convention prior to the first registration time. III. COMPETITION CATEGORIES AND SPECIFIC RULES,
B. Eligibility, 3. Competition Registration, d.
28 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

Clowns of America International
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(Also Includes Canada and Latin countries.)
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Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 29

CLOWNS OF AMERICA INTERNATIONAL
SOLICITUD DE INICIACION Y RENOVACION
Nombre
Apellidos
_________________________________________________
Dirección:
_________________________________________________
Ciudad: Estado: Código Postal: País:
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
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E-mail:
_________________________________________________
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Edad: Masculino/Femenino:
_________________________________________________
Nombre de Payaso/a:
Afiliación: Nombre del alley
_________________________________________________
Número de COAI (renovación):
_________________________________________________
Recomendado por: Numero de COAI del Recomendando:
Regale Una Membresía
o Por favor regale la membresía a la persona indicada en esta solicitud
o Deseo permanecer anónimo.
o Deseo que usted me identifique al recipiente.
o Deseo escribir una nota.
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Por favor dénos su nombre y número de teléfono para poder ponernos en
contacto con usted si es necesario. Si usted desea quedarse anónimo,
marque la casilla indicada arriba y no revelaremos su identidad.
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o Membresía Individual: ..........................................$40
r Membresía oIndividual: Membresía . . Mayor . . . de . . edad . . .(65 . +): $40 ................................$30
r Membresía De por vida: . . . . . . . . .$1,000
r Membresía oMayor Membresía de edad Junior (65 +): Joey . . (jóvenes . . . .$30 8-15): r .............................$30
Membrecia E Nacional: . . . . . . . . . $30.00
r Membresía oJunior Membresía Joey (jóvenes Familia: 8-15): ...........................................$20
. . $30 r Membrecia E Internacional: . . . . . . . $20.00
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• Los mayores de edad deben tener 65 años o más durante el año de renovación o la inscripción.
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• E- Pertenencia reciben la revista y una tarjeta de miembro a través del correo electrónico.
30 The New Calliope • September/October 2016
Cuotas Anuales de Socios
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o Cheque a nombre de: _________
o Visa
Firma y Teléfono: (Se requiere para las tarjetas de crédito) Número de Teléfono: ____________________
o MasterCard Número de Tarjeta de Crédito ________________________________________________________
o Discover Fecha de Expiración : __________________ Código de Verificación (3 dígitos)____________________
___________________________________________
Firma
Clasificación de Membresía
Enviar solicitud a:
Clowns of America, International, Inc. (COAI), P.O. Box 122, Eustis, FL 32727 USA
Teléfono 1-877-816-6941 • Fax 352-357-7166 • Página Web: www.coai.org
Todas las membresías en COAI son anuales.

Our Good Cheer List
Please take a moment to spread a few
words of good cheer with a card or
note to one of these members.
Miriam “Senorita Soto” Kleinberger
2 Maple Lane North
Loudonville, NY 12211
Paul “Daddy-O” Kleinberger
919 Slate Hill Road
Sharon Springs, NY 13459
Charlie “Charlie Chuckles” Meranda
369 Herron Road
North Ft. Myers, FL 33903-2748
Good Cheer Chairman:
Fred Schlosshauer
8 Alanon Street
Whippany, NJ 07981
973-887-2617
oscarboj@aol.com
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 31

NEWS
CLOWN
CALENDAR
November 6–10, 2016
Western Region Clown
Association Convention
Las Vegas, Nevada
www.wrcaconvention.org
January 20–22, 2017
Northeast Clown Institute
Plymouth, Massachusetts
fuddiduddy@aol.com
January 26-29, 2017
Show Me Clowns for Jesus
Branson, Missouri
ShowMeClownsForJesus.org
February 23-26, 2017
Circus Magic
Hampton, Virginia
CircusMagicConvention.com
April 25–30, 2017
COAI Convention
Kansas City, Missouri
www.coai.org
May 24–28, 2017
Face & Body Art
International Convention
Orlando, Florida
www.fabaic.com
July 12–15, 2017
I.B.M.-S.A.M. Combined Convention
Louisville, Kentucky
www.ibmsam2017.org
July 17–22, 2017
National Puppetry Festival
St. Paul, Minnesota
www.puppeteers.org
August 1–7 , 2017
International Clown Week
November 3-5, 2017
Kentucky Clown Derby
Clarksville, Indiana
KentuckyClownDerby.com
GH
Send event information to
thenewcalliope@gmail.com with
Clown Calendar in the subject line.
Continued from page 23.
hand and the silk in your right, letting
your right hand drop to your side so the
silk is out of sight from the audience and
the boy.
Approach the boy from his left side. As
you step behind him, give him the wand
with your left hand. Your right hand goes
behind his back. Quickly stick the silk to
his back and continue bringing your arm
around him. With your now empty right
hand, take his right arm and guide it to
take hold of the magic wand.
Say to him, “Use both hands, please.”
This motion of putting the silk on his
back will be undetected because it looks
like you are simply reaching around him
to make sure he holds the wand properly.
Besides, the audience is probably still
laughing about the glasses, and now at
the giant wand. (You may want to select
a fairly hefty child who is wide enough
so the audience doesn’t catch a glimpse
of Jasper.) Leave the boy holding the
wand, as you step back to your table to
pick up the change bag.
“Now, Austin, tap the bag with the
magic wand. Is he back? Quick, then,
grab him! [The boy misses him again.]
That does it! We’re not letting him get
away with this.” Remove the glasses from
the boy and toss aside—the glasses, that
is. Toss aside the change bag also. Take
the magic wand from the boy, holding it
in your left hand, and take hold of his
left arm to swing him around.
“We’re going to find that ghost! We’re
going to look high and low. He’s not just
going to disappear and not come back
. . .” As you rave, walk about the stage
looking for Jasper, pulling the boy along
with you. By this time, everyone has seen
the silk stuck to his back. Children, of
course, will be screaming; parents will
be laughing. You finally realize they are
trying to tell you something. Notice the
silk with great surprise. Point to it and
the boy will turn around in a humorous
manner, trying to remove it. Beat him to
the draw. Pull the silk off, holding it high
in the air.
“Thank goodness, we found Jasper, and
I’m so glad we had Austin to help us do
it! Let’s give Austin a great hand! Austin,
take a bow.” The audience applauds,
Austin bows. As you say, “Take a bow,”
bow along with him, your right hand
behind you, sticking the silk on your
own back.
“Thanks, Austin. And let’s give Jasper a
big hand, too. Jasper? Hey, Jasper?!” Turn
around to look for him, and the audience
will let you know where to find Jasper.
Quickly remove him from your back.
Let’s give him a big hand and say goodbye.”
Wait for the applause, then toss the
silk aside.
“And Mr. Bones is dead tired. Better
say good-bye to him, too.”
Some Thoughts about Jasper
Sometimes when I first mention the
name, “Jasper the Friendly Ghost,” kids
will call out, “You mean Casper!”
I say, “No, this is Jasper. His cousin
Casper couldn’t be here today because
he’s all covered up with copyright laws!”
TNC
32 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

OFFICIAL BUSINESS
Mideast Region Report
Jessica “Gabby” King
Hi to all my beautiful and handsome clown friends! We’ve had a hot and muggy
summer here in West Virginia, but I certainly have been busy working and
bringing joy to many. Even with the severe hardship of the flooding in my area, we’ve
still brought many smiles to the faces around us.
Now that the heat is dying down outside, it’s time to focus on my goals. This new
cooler season will bring more opportunities to visit my region’s alley meetings and
events. I have spoken with several groups, and I’m working on plans for other visits. In
this new day and age, we have been given the gift of wireless connection around the
world. While my husband, Tom, and I aren’t on the road as much as before, we are still
able to connect to our friends and family using internet-based options like FaceTime,
Skype, and Zoom. Even if I can’t be sitting right beside you in your local meetings, I
can join in wirelessly and be a part of your group.
I am asking you to have one person in your alley or group that can give me the
information on meeting times and dates, in addition to allowing me to attend virtually
from my office in downtown Huntington, West Virginia. Please
email me at gabbygayle2005@yahoo.com. I have a feeling that some
people are learning that I tend to forget to answer my phone, so
email is best way to contact me.
At your meetings, I’d like to have about five to ten minutes
to update everyone on COAI events and happenings. There is
always something new and exciting to talk about. I’d love to be
able to share information, but even more, I’d love to hear about
your local excitement and happenings. We are nothing without
you, our members. Our members’ thoughts and experiences will
help us continue to be the best clown organization available to
domestic and international clowns and family entertainers.
Many of you are already on our regional Facebook page, but
we need more action! If you are a COAI member in the Mideast
Region, please send a request to join. Message me with your
membership and location information if you aren’t approved right
away. Find us at Facebook.com/COAIMidEast.
There are several other projects I’ve been busy working on to
improve our general membership. I’ll be sharing more about
one of those in the November/December issue—the new COAI
Perks program, which will provide discounts to COAI members
with clown and affiliated entertainer supply companies. Don’t
forget to check that out and send me feedback on your thoughts.
While reading some posts today on Facebook (I promise I do
other stuff, too!), I noticed a trend among clowns around the
world. Many are having serious health and nutritional challenges.
As entertainers, we are always on the go! We tend to work in
food-based environment—company picnics
have their hot dogs and chips, fairs
and festivals bring ice cream and deep
fried goodness, and birthday parties give
us plenty of pizza and cake. With four or
five events in a row, it’s hard not to swing
into a fast-food restaurant or depend on
junk food. I know when I get home from
a long day, the last thing I want to do
is cook a healthy meal. Being an online
kind of gal, I created a Facebook group
as a place for us to share our experiences
and habits of healthy eating and exercise.
As a group, we need to stay strong,
healthy, and alive for a long time! Visit
Facebook.com/healthyclowns for support,
tips, and encouragement.
I can’t wait to see you all soon! TNC
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 33

NEWS
z LAST
WALK-AROUND
l
Jack is survived by his wife, Adrienne;
son, Craig; step-daughter, Anissa
(Darren) Wagley; stepson, Keith
Glidden; five grandchildren, Tim, Ariel,
Jonathan, Jackson, and Melissa; brother,
Clyde; and brother, Terry. He was preceded
in death by his father, mother, and
a daughter.
Jack “Freckles” Anderson
Jack “Freckles” Anderson, 80, died August 30. Jack was
born in Jacksonville, Florida, on February 6, 1936. He
joined the Naval Reserves for nine years, beginning in
1953. Following his discharge he applied for work at the
Jacksonville Sheriff ’s Office where he served for twenty-seven
years, retiring in 1989. He married Adrienne Rupkalvis
Glidden in early 1987.
Jack was a member of the Shrine Clowns of Morocco Temple and a member of the
William B. Barnett Lodge and a member of Scottish Rite. He performed as Freckles
the Clown for over thirty years. He held the office of President
in three organizations: Clowns of America International,
World Clown Association, and International Shrine Clown
Association. He was the only person who has served as president
of these three major clown organizations.
He recalled that when he joined Clowns of America, “the
meetings were all held in Baltimore, Maryland, and you had
to live in the area to hold office. When COAI was founded,
this stopped and everyone had the opportunity to hold office.”
His biggest problem as COAI President was the fact that the
organization “was flooded with talented people, and it was difficult to find jobs for all
the folks who had a desire to help.” The biggest satisfaction in the job, he said, was
reaching a membership of 7,000.
As a performing clown he did birthday parties, grand openings, special events, and
participated in many parades around the United States. Jack taught the art of clowning
to many aspiring clowns. He lectured at clown schools and provided support and
advice whenever asked. Jack loved the circus and attended whenever he could. He
taught himself to do simple pocket magic and became a member of the International
Brotherhood of Magicians.
Jack’s favorite occupation, however, was playing Santa during the Christmas season.
He loved children and enjoyed watching their expressions. He delighted in making
people happy and was a consummate performer.
As the co-owner of Freckles Theatrical and Clown Supplies, he joined the National
Costumers Association in 1989. Jack served on the Board of Directors for several
years. Because of his dedication to the organization, hosting an annual convention,
and teaching classes during the conventions, he was awarded a Lifetime Membership.
He was a member of Lake Shore United Methodist Church, served as President of
the Westside Business Leaders, and enjoyed membership in the German American
Club.
Patrick J. Cashin
Patrick Cashin, 48, of Tinton Falls,
New Jersey—husband, father, Clown,
Santa, Captain Kangaroo, and all-around
comedian and entertainer—passed away
suddenly at home on Sunday, July 24,
2016. He was married to Terry Cashin
in full clown make-up and attire in
Madison Square Garden before performing
at the Ringling Brothers Circus,
but his greatest source of accomplishment
was being a terrific father to his
two young sons, Shane and James.
He graduated from Brookdale
Community College, Monmouth
University, and Ringling Brothers Clown
College. He was a stand-up comedian
for several years at Rascals Comedy Club
and for many other venues, but he had
longed to be a circus clown since he was
a young boy. He fulfilled his dream by
working for Ringling Brothers as a circus
clown, various
shrine circuses,
and many others,
and most recently
at the Salaam
Shriner’s Circus
as the Director of
Clowning.
34 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

He enjoyed playing the father in a
well-respected Super Bowl Visa commercial
in 2001 (the one with the multiplying
bunny rabbits). He gave generously
of his time to the Jersey Shore
University Medical Center Pediatrics
Department as a clown and Santa for
special needs children. He worked tirelessly
toward improving the awareness
of clown history and served as a board
member and as the President of the
International Clown Hall of Fame in
Baraboo, Wisconsin.
The highlight of each year was being
Santa at the Galleria Mall (with his
puppy Knucklehead), in Red Bank,
New Jersey. He was also an award-winning
Santa in 2015 at Great Adventure,
Jackson, New Jersey. Pat’s adventures in
clowning took him to China, Singapore,
Malaysia, and Spain. He acquired the
rights to Captain Kangaroo and was
hoping to introduce the character to a
new generation of children.
Prior to his death, he had not felt well
for about ten days. Doctors suspected a
viral infection. His wife and sons went
shopping and returned home to find him
unresponsive on the couch.
Pat is survived by his wife, Terry;
two sons, Shane and James; his mother,
Marilyn Flynn; his brothers Dennis,
Joseph (Denise), and Sean (Stacey). He
was predeceased by his father, Joseph
Cashin.
Carol “Perky” Hill
Carol “Perky” Hill, 90, took her last
walk-around February 2 in Crystal,
Minnesota, where she had made her
home for many years.
“Perky” entered this
world March 24,
1925, the oldest of
four girls (whom
she later called the
“Fabulous Four”)
in Waseca, Minnesota. After graduating
valedictorian from Waseca High,
she went to Mankato Teachers College
and the University of Minnesota to earn
a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s
Degree in education. She became a
middle school specialty teacher, then
the supervisor of the Developmentally
Delayed Program, and a teaching principal
for the City of Minneapolis School
District.
After retiring Carol started her clowning
adventure—a second career—as a
whiteface. She twice attended Clown
College in La Cross, Wisconsin, expanding
her skills and Christian clowning by
attending weekend and day conferences.
“Perky” was a valuable member in three
clubs: The Comedy Caravan, Gospel and
Greasepaint, and the ClownCare Club,
at that time a new “caring clown” alley.
Quiet but creative, she was always the
first to share new skills and skit ideas.
Besides the usual clowning forays to
schools, churches, battered women’s and
homeless shelters, community events
and parades, “Perky” made two church
mission trips as a clown. In Mexico and
Ecuador, her group went inland in a
small watercraft to reach those who lived
in the deeper, undeveloped parts of those
countries.
Complementing her clowning activities,
Carol spent time in the Story
Theater in her community, reading to the
children in the school district where she
had previously taught.
In 1995 the renown Minneapolis
Aquatennial organization honored
Carol, selecting her as the Senior Queen
of the Lakes. In the years before and
after she reigned as royalty in city’s big
summer festival, Carol generously gave
of her time and talent in the Aquatennial
Choir.
In her later years, she suffered a medical
condition that robbed her of her
voice—but never her spirit, commitment,
or generosity.
Preceded in death by two husbands,
she leaves her two children, two grandchildren,
three sisters, and many others
who loved her.
Submitted by the members of the
ClownCare Club.
Bill “Peanut” Kauffman
William Kauffman, 50, of Minersville,
Pennsylvania, who spent over twenty-five
years spreading cheer as Peanut
the Clown and as Santa, passed away
on August 12, 2016, after a tough battle
with cancer. He is survived by his
second wife, Debra, of twenty-three
years and his children Melissa, Daniel,
Christopher, and Matt and seven grandchildren.
Another son, Michael, passed
away several years ago. Bill grew up in
North Braddock, Pennsylvania, and
spent many years excelling in clowning,
military service with the U.S. Navy, and
as a Corrections Officer at the State prison.
He spread his joy of clowning and
laughter to his whole family. He took
his brother Earl (formerly Wrinkles the
Clown) to conventions and his daughter
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 35

Melissa was a Junior Joey. He performed with his son
Daniel in group Christian skit competitions. Always
known as a jokester, even in his own family, his son said,
“He was always the funniest man in the room.”
Bill wanted so much to represent COAI in some capacity.
He served as an Ambassador for the Northeast,
and he made two consecutives runs for Northeast RVP
even during his last few months. He wrote articles for
The New Calliope including one in the May/June issue
entitled, “Circus History.” He was determined. He recently
attended the COAI Las Vegas Convention. He
generally could be found in balloon lectures at conventions
with a willingness to share and help others learn
the art form. “Peanut” had nearly perfected his craft in
balloons with his award-winning medals (especially
from the Circus Magic Convention competitions). He
also judged balloon competitions. As Santa, he warmed
the hearts of countless children and parents. Bill had
a huge heart for everyone, especially the children.
“Peanut” was an excellent clown, entertainer, performer,
husband, father, grandfather, and most of all an excellent
all-around man in the hearts of many.
Submitted by Teresa Gretton. Contributing to this article:
Daniel Kauffman.
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Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 37

Welcome,
NEW MEMBERS!
Veison “Payaso Pimpa” Albane de la Cruz DR
Willy “Yoquetin” Alberto-Arias Montes DR
Keynna Mariela “Payasita Rousse” Alvarez Vargas Costa Rica
Esthefany “Amy” Aminta Perez Adames DR
Luis “Jarrita Mix” Angel Oblitas Cruz Peru
Rafael “Payaso Tini” Anibal-leonardo de la Cruz DR
Lucas Antonio-Bǫnitez Pequero DR
Geisy “Suspirin” Ariel Reyos Caberra DR
Katie “Sillie tillie” Baker OH
Delia “TC Doll” Barea PR
Elena “Ah Choo” Baughman PA
Kerrie “Miss Choo” Baughman PA
Bart “Choo Choo” Baughman PA
Johaira “Johie The Clown” Bautista-Acosta NJ
Ivelisse “Tombolina” Berrios PR
Carol “HummingBee” Boase OH
Lloyd “Loyal” Brant MN
Julie “Razzles” Campbell MI
Maria del “Payasita Candy” Carmen Garro PR
David Chernyavsky CA
Claribel “Clarita” Claudio Roman PR
Rosie “Rosie” Cole US
Adines “ K-ramelo” Cruz Nieves PR
Richard “Kinkan” Cuevas de los Santos DR
Olga Yaliuis “Ya Yi” de Herrera DR
Teresita “Estvellita” de Jesus Gomez DR
Rachel “Payasita Rosita” de Jesus Tejada-Vasquez DR
Cynthia “Cindy Lu Lu” Deckard IN
Eduardo Alexander-Velez “Chaplito” Delgado Ecuador
Edward “Payaso Chuletin” Eligio Santana DR
Carlos “Pachequin” Enrique Pacheco PR
Clara Noemi “Payasa Lupita” Escoto Mexico
Carlos “Panchilin” Fco. Cvevas Arias DR
Eric “Bouncy Bobber” Frank PA
Alejandra M “Liilta” Grana Mojica PR
Harrison “Greeny the Clown” Greenbaum NY
Anna “Pookie Pockets” Grupke TN
Francis “Miss Franabelle ” Guttin ID
Kristi Hanau US
Donna “Silly Tilly” Hanzal MN
Elitzia J De “Payasa Maraquita y su sonsonete” Jesus Torres PR
Elvira “LiLyLu” Jimenez TX
Mary “Fairy Mary” Jordan CA
Forrest “Sweepy” Kauffman PA
Shelley “BrownEe” Kauffman PA
Douglas “KLiNK ” Kauffman PA
Robert “Doodles” Kelmer CO
Debra “Sassy Frass” Kissinger IN
Tami Kiwala MD
Deborah Lawson MA
Victor “Cosá´“uillin-Labiyaso” Liprian DR
David Lopez OK
William “Billy Boy” Lyons WI
Ranaye “Sappphire” Marsh ID
Joon “Payamin” Martinez PR
Jose Martinez NY
Ralph “Sprocket” Meiners Canada
Angelo R “Mangoito” Melendez Velez PR
Fransico “Pepiyin” Melo DR
Leonandy “Payaso Pilin y Parchito” Miguel-Arias Marte DR
David “Skeeter” Mitchell PA
Karla “Snookie” Mitchell PA
Mayra “Glitter” Mora NY
Brandi Myers-Alvarez IN
Betty “Betty Boop” Nehring OK
Ezequiel “Konorbolon” Noyola DR
Kelvin “Kanqui” Nuñez DR
Eduardo Montes “Pituficlown” Olvera PR
Gayle “Frauline Minnesota” Overbeck OR
Fred “Jolly Go Phred” Pena TX
Jimmy “Carousel” Pickrell AZ
Eduardo “Payaso Ranger” Polonio Mexico
Yendry Quesada Chacõn Costa Rica
Sean “sean” Rader CA
Vladimir “Polillin” Ramos Perez PR
Melissa Rivera NJ
William J “Willito” Rivera Visalden PR
Julio “Tapon” Rodrigo-Peleo Mendez Venezuela
Yesenia Grullon “Payasita Yessi Show” Rodriguez PR
Ashley Salazar NY
Edwin L “Chupy” Santana Jrena DR
Ninoshka Marie Santiago Ramos PR
Rosalyn “Noodles” Shew NY
Susan “Suzzala” Stalcup TX
Kelly “Spiffy the Clown” Terreson-Trivic PA
Hollymill “Tomillin” Tiburcio Sanchez DR
Carlos “Payaso Yeyo” Valverde DR
William “Hobo Harry” Varvel IN
Javier “Yavito” Velazquez-Ortiz PR
Heather Watson TX
Brian “Hotrod” Wike PA
James “Willy Lou” Willmore MN
Ting Yang China
A big thank you to
Madge “Dribbles” Will, Jeffrey Buckley,
and Eleanor Fish, who recently gifted
memberships to COAI!
38 The New Calliope • September/October 2016

Sammy Smith is one of the great leaders in the field of kid
show magic. He understands children’s magic, and he’s a
great innovator. His dry wit always makes me laugh!”
—Silly Billy, professional clown, New York City
“I have used so much great material from this book, I almost
feel like I should pay Sammy again for it!”
—Mark Daniel, cofounder of KIDabra International
“Sammy Smith is a master of total audience involvement.
These routines are pure gold for me...even after 25 years of
doing shows. A marvelous book.”
—Dave Mayer, professional children’s entertainer, Chicago, Illinois
“The kids like Sammy—in fact, love Sammy—and he does
have a delightful manner when working with them. This
book brought back memories of seeing his live show, and if
you take these routines and add your own showmanship and
personality to them, you’ll create your own
winning performances.”
—David Ginn, author of
Professional Magic for Children
We are excited to offer this new
updated edition of our single
most requested book, Big Laughs
for Little People.
Big Laughs is back, and better
than ever! You will find 15
routines of magic and comedy,
guaranteed to get great
audience reactions.
You’ll read Sammy Smith’s
complete patter, word-for-word,
for each effect. Of course, you’ll
want to adapt these routines to fit
your own personality, but learning
from the author’s 20 years of
experience in entertaining will
save you valuable time and give
you crucial information on how to
get big laughs for little people.
New, updated edition!
Sammy also shares his best
tips and advice for entertaining
children, learned from literally
thousands of performances. This
is a textbook on entertaining
children with comedy and magic,
which every kid-show performer
should own and use.
The comments, which the late
Fetaque Sanders made about
the first edition, are even more
valid with this newly revised and
updated edition:
“Big Laughs for Little People
gives readers an opportunity to
go backstage with a real pro and
watch the show from behind the
scenes. In a word, the book
is tremendous.”
Big Laughs for Little People
Newly Updated and Expanded
Routines include
• Headband Blendo
(new version)
• Super Frog
• Vanishing Candle
• Snake Cake Bake
• Magic Knot Tube (updated)
• The Extra-Celestial
(hilarious puppet routine)
• Tricky Bottles (updated)
• Invisible Flying Silk Scarf
• Polar Thermometers
• Ball Brothers’ Traveling
Circus (Strat-O-Sphere)
• Maxwell the Monster
(Soft Soap)
• Multiplying Billard Balls
• Cash Suprises (coins)
Quality soft cover
100 illustrations
252 pages
PO Box 787 • Eustis, FL 32727 • 24-hour Order Line 1-352-357-2665
VISA • Mastercard • Discover
Please add $7 shipping per order
Clowns of America International • www.coai.org 39

40 The New Calliope • September/October 2016