July_Aug_2000

he New
CallioP-e
:lawns of America International
;eallsville, PA
uly/August , 2000
'olume 17, Number 4

July/August , 2000
The New
Cal I ioP---=--e ____ ___::
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The New Calliope
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2 The New Calliope

July/August , 2000
The New
CallioP-e
Published for members of Clowns of America International
JULY/AUGUST , 2000
COAi OFFICERS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
PRESIDENT: Cheri Venturi, P.O. Bo\ 367 , Destrehan ,
LA 70047. Ph i (504) 764-0080. chcnoa ts0. aol.rnm
EXEC. VICE PRESIDENT: Da\ ·id Barnett, 325 NW
Woo

July/August , 2000
Letters
Reactions to campaign letter
Editor's Note: Before this spring 's COAi election. a
number of COAi members received a letter co-signed by
four COAi past presidents . The letter endorsed several
candidates. The New Calliope has received a number of
letters commenting on the campaign letter -- all of them
negative . Here are two of those letters.
By David T. Walker
fuzzy71@gte.net
Dear Past Presidents : Congratulations , you've just
managed to shoot yourselves in the foot (or is that feet?). I
have been with COAi for some time now, so I was under the
following assumption: Any member in good standing in
COAi has the right to run for office. Is this a fair assumption?
If it isn't, please say so. However, if it is a fair
assumption.then why did I receive a letter in the mail
undermining the whole election process?
If I were running for office and I wasn't one of your
chosen candidates , I would withdraw in a heartbeat. Your
actions have tainted the elections. I will not be voting for any
candidate you have on your recommended list because all
candidates have the right to run, unendorsed. If these
people who are running for office didn 't feel they could do
the job, they wouldn 't be running -- simple as that --and for
you to recommend one candidate over another is just plain
dirty politics that has no business in our organization. To say
that I am upset is putting it mildly.
By Kaethe "Blossom" Andersen
877 Apple Blossom N.E.
Keizor, OR 97303
I found this letter to be in very poor taste . But it did
make me do my own research. I read the last Calliope and
made my OWN choices.
Reaction to Red Nose
By Phil Stone
Toms River, NJ
p I stone@ I ucent. com
After reading the article "Behind the Red Nose," by
Mike Bednarek ( The New Calliope, March/April 2000), I
wanted to provide my thoughts on this newest form of
judg ing/coaching.
I had the opportunity to experience the Red Nose
Festival Competition or Coaching Program at Clownfest '99
this past year. I think Mike is right on with what he is trying to
accomplish. Competition in the art of clowning should not
be about trying to decide who is better than who. This just
creates a rank and order among those competing. What it
should provide is a way for each and every clown to be
judge/critiqued , or better yet , coached , on their own merits
and talents. It should provide a way for a clown to learn and
grow from their experience , to improve their character .
Education and improving one 's characte r is one of the main
goals of most if not all clown organizations.
I believe that the Red Nose program is an extremely
positive step in that direction In competitions you hear
things like, "They should have won ," or, "They were better
than that one." With the Red Nose program you should not
get comments like that.
Also, the performers are much more relaxed since they
are not competing against others. Obviously , in order for
this to really work, you need to have coaches that are willing
and able to provide comments and constructive criticism
that the performer can use to enhance their character.
I think this is definitely a winner , which can only help to
improve on the quality of clowns and family entertainers.
Organizations should look to expand this into all of the
various forms of competitions .
She loves mentor program
By Mary Ellen Szper
1030 Gate Ln.
Pilot Hill, CT 95664
webczk@flyingfrog .com
I attended my first clown convention , the COAi
International Convention in San Francisco and it was
awesome. Thanks , in no small part, to the COAi Mentor
Program.
The convention sponsors, Golden Gate Clown Alley
#80 presented this new mentoring program the first
afternoon. I sat and listened but walked out when they
started pairing people up by geographic location. I didn't
want to get assigned that way . So there I was, standing in
the lobby, fumbling with my schedule and trying to figure
out where to go next, and a woman walked up. She asked if
I had a mentor yet. I looked in her eyes and blammo! we
were off and running for the rest of my stay. It was like we
had known each other forever . My Mentor from Heaven
saved me from a week of lurking and confusion.
She had been clowning for 13 years, is experienced
with convention competition, is so pulled together as a
4 The New Calliope

clown and was amazingly generous with me. Elaine "Daisy
D. Dots," Vercello, of Montvale, NJ, is the textbook
definition of a mentor.She gave me everything she had with
so much joy ... She encouraged me to participate. She said I
would get much more out of the convention if I got
involved .. So she registered us for a group skit. Oh, my! I
had never been on stage and previously found the mere
thought of it terrifying.
But Daisy was gentle and made the whole experience
delightful and one I will never forget. We spent one day
rehearsing and procuring props .... As we stood in our ready
places on opposite sides of the stage, we mugged and
goofed at each other . We did our skit, which closed with us
singing "Friends hip" ala Lucy and Ethel. Very appropriate
for the start of a funderful new friendship! Then we just sat
and enjoyed the rest of the show and all the magnificent
clowns.
I found the quality of makeup, costumes and characters
at the convention to be top notch, across the board. The
atmosphere was generally supportive and inspiring , but
nothing compared to the comfort and guidance provided by
my own special mentor
----------------------------------------------------------------
July/August, 2000
are also members of Kansas City Clown Alley #92. We also
have other family members to help us out when it's a need.
We are black clowns for the future.
She seeks old clown magazines
By Julie "Lovely Buttons" Varholdt
4601 S. Kachina Dr.
Tempe, AZ 85282
I'm seeking a favor from some of the clowns out there. I
live in Arizona, and my partner , Debbie "Odessey" Henry
and I are privileged to oe Hesidency Roster Artists OT me
Arizona Commission of the Arts. That means we go around
to many of the schools in Arizona and teach them about the
art of clowning. It's a blast.
There are many schools that we teach at that cannot
afford the subscription to any of the clown magazines . So, I
am asking any clowns who are interested in helping spread
the clowning word to donate your magazines to the needy
schools. I will pay for shipping. What a deal. You are helping
young clowns and cleaning off your shelves at the same
time!
If you are interested you can email me:
Julieva rholdt@juno.com , or if you just wish to donate them
you can send them to me at the address under my byline
above.
Thank you from the bottom of my clown heart!
l\lAGNETIC CLO\VN
CAR CIRCLES
From left,Boo Who, Onionhead,
Kizzy Too
A trio of clowns in KC
By Aullne "Boo Who" Gunnels
8707 E. 58th St.
Kansas City, MO 64129
My sister "Kizzy Too" and I are two black clowns, and
have been in business three years. We had the chance to
perform with the Universoul Circus, an all black circus,
during the month of November, 1999, in Kansas city.
Onionhead and my sister and I are members of COAi. We
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The New Calliope 5

July/August , 2000
President Cheri Venturi
Exec.V.P . David Barnett
Cheri Venturi wins
COAi Presidency
By Cal Olson
Cheri Venturi, of Destrehan , LA, was elected
president of Clowns of America International in the
organization's biennial elections.
Venturi, who served as COAi's Executive Vice
President for the past four years , defeated Dan Lake, of St.
Louis, MO, long-time COAi Director and North Central
Regional Vice President.
In other contested races for seats on COAi 's Executive
Committee:
+ Executive Vice President: David Barnett, of
Lee's Summit, MO, defeated Mike Fixer, of Hamden, CT.
Barnett resigned as COAi's business manager to make the
race against Fixer, who was Northeast Regional Vice
President for two terms.
+ Treasurer:Joyce Olson, of Fremont, NE,
defeated Claudia Keener , of Warren, OH. Olson previously
served as North Central Regional Vice President. It was
Keener'sfirsttryforCOAloffice.
In uncontested races for Executive Committee offices:
+ Secretary Teresa Gretton, of Waldorf, MD, was
re-elected to her second elective term. She was appointed
to the office in the summer of 1996.
+ Sergeant-at-Arms Walter R. Lee, of Severn ,
MO, was re-elected to his ninth term in the office.
Sgt.-Arms Walter R. Le•
Director Rex Nolen
Secy . Teresa
Gretton
Only one contested race developed for the three
Directors' slots filled in the election. In the race for Director of
Alley/Region support, Catherine Hardebeck, of St.
Louis, MO. defeated Annette Darragh, of Birmingham, AL,
and Paul Kleinberger, of Schenectady, NY.
Director Patricia Roese,
In two uncontested Directors' races:
+ Rex Nolen, of Kansas City, MO, was elected to a
second term as Director for Education.
+ Patricia Roeser, of Woodbury, MN, was elected
Director for Conventions.
Treasurer Joyce Olson
The fourth Director slot (Membership) normally is filled
by COAi's immediate Past President. But since Judy Quest
has refused the appointment because of personal
comm itments, the position will be filled by Board
appointment.
Director C. Hardebeck
6 The New Calliope

July/August, 2000
James Cunningham
North Central VP
In the elections to fill COAi's 11 Regional Vice President
posts , three seats were contested :
+ North Central : James Cunningham, of Joplin.
MO, defeated Jim McGuire, of Rogers, AR, and Ken Terry , of
Wichita , KS.
+ Mideast: Michael 8. Cox, of Richmond , VA,
defeated incumbent Gary Zwerin, of Raleigh, NC, and Sara
Beth Offutt , of Nashville , TN .
+ Midwest: Incumbent Tricia Bothun , of Maple
Lake, MN. defeated Linda Williams, of Princeton , MN.
Candidates ran without contest in six Regional VP races:
+ Northwest : Incumbent Albert Alter, of Portland,
OR .
Danny Kollaja
South Central VP
+Southeast:
Placid, FL.
Incumbent Keith Stokes, of Lake
Michael Cox
Mideast VP
Tricia Bothun
Midwest VP
+ South Central: Danny Kollaja, of Corpus Christi,
TX, former Director for Region/Alley Support.
+ Southwest: Incumbent Linda Hulet, of
Anaheim, CA.
+ Latin Countries: Incumbent Pedro Santos , of
Bayamon , PR.
+ International: Incumbent Andrew Stevens, of
Wiltshire, England.
No nominations were received for Vice Presidential
posts in two regions : Northeast and Canada. As in the case
of the Director for Membership , these offices were to be filled
by appointment after Aug. 20, the deadline for persons to file
resumes for the positions. (See story page 12.)
In an advisory straw vote, COAi members strongly urged
the COAi Board to continue the organization's policy of
requring 100 percent COAi membership in COAi-chartered
alleys.
Linda Hulet
Southwest
VP
Albert Alter
Northwest VP
Keith Stokes
Southeast VP
Andrew Stevens
International VP
Pedro Santos
Latin Countries VP
The New Calliope 7

July/August. 2000
Presidential
Q's and A's
COAi's new president , Cheri Venturi, is one of the
busiest clowns around. But after her election, Cheri held
still long enough to answer questions of interest to her
constituents in the clown world. Meet Cheri Venturi:
Q: Where do you live?
A: I now live in the New Orleans area. We moved here
four years ago in July. Of all the places that I have lived (and
there have been a few) , my heart has found a home here.
Many people think of this area as Bourbon Street , but
Bourbon is just part of this wonderful , historical area.The
weather is always sunny and warm (or should I say HOT).
The people are warm and friendly . There is always an
atmosphere of fun and humor. Being a clown, it is
wonderful to see people laugh on the job , rarely becoming
upset with the things they can't change, and worrying little
about time constraints -- my kind of world! profound challenges as a person and as a clown .
Q: How long have you been clowning?
A: My clown life started in the middle of my daughter 's
high school years, about 11 years ago. At that time I lived in
Indianapolis. My family tried to be encouraging, but really
didn't know what got into me. In fact , my father paid for my
first set of clown classes as a birthday gift. To say life hasn't
been the same since would be an understatement.
Through those classes I met and became friends with a lady
who would become my partner for four years, Nicki McCain.
We shared many moments of happiness and silliness . We
started to clown for Jacobson 's department store and the
O'Malia food store. We not only provided entertainment at
company parties but also catered entire birthday parties. We
combined our marketing skills with our entertainment skills
and formed Clowns and Kids. Soon we were looking at
starting a wig business. From there it is history.
Q: Where have you clowned?
A: My clowning has taken me into schools, nursing
homes , conventions, conferences , and churches. My
specialty became dealing with children ages 3-9., That is
the age group I like the most. Actually , I really love the 3-5
year-olds , since they still believe in magic. However , there is
nothing that can beat the feeling when you win over a teen .
One of my favorite weekends took place at the State
School for the Hearing Impaired in Tennessee. Since
Speech Therapy was my major and Deaf Education my
minor, I felt right at home. It may have been one of my most
When I moved to Cleveland, I became involved with the
Wigs for Kids Association . This organization provided wigs
for children who had undergone chemotherapy . I was able
to share my clowning at their annual luncheon and
throughout the year. I also started visiting the Children 's
Hospital in Cleveland and observed music therapy in action .
This is where I developed an interest in working with
instruments and music and movem ent. But we moved
within 18 months , so I had to start over again in New
Orleans .
Q: Why have you moved so much?
A: Let me tell you about my home life. In the 33 years I
have been married, my husband Rick (NOT Ken or Jesse) ,
has been a professional football coach. We started at the
college level, with Northwestern University , the University
of Illinois and Purdue . We then joined the NFL, starting in
Baltimore (such a shame that I wasn't into clowning at that
time). We spent two years in Baltimore and then moved to
Indianapolis , staying there 10 years before moving to
Cleveland. From Cleveland we moved to New Orleans. It
seemed that every time I got established , we were moving
again. When I got to Indy I decided I needed a career that
could move with me. Clowning was perfect. Not only cou ld I
take it with me, I could find extended families all over the
place. What a wonderful fee ling to move somewhere and
know I am only a phone call away from someone I met in
clowning. It was the best change I made in my life.
Continued page 10
8 The New Calliope

July/August , 2000
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July/August, 2000
COAi President --
From page 8
Q: Tell us about your family.
A: My family has all adjusted to my lifestyle and has been
extremely encouraging. My daughter, Marin, graduated
from Millikin University in Decatur, IL in Theatre Arts. She is
presently employed by the Cleveland Opera as Production
Coordinator. My son, Jason, graduated from Butler
University in Indianapolis with a degree in Education. After
teaching math for four years, he has just been placed in a
supervisory position within the Washington Township
School system in Indianapolis. His wife, Jennifer, will be
teaching second grade in the same school system. They
celebrated their first anniversary in July. My husband, Rick,
is presently employed by the New Orleans Saints as the
Assistant Head Coach/Secondary Coach . We all have been
truly blessed.
0 : Why did you start your wig business?
A: I started a wig business within clowning because
there weren't many people who could help in the selection
of wigs. Cherri-Oats and Company has grown into a
wonderful and challenging adventure . The business has
taught me a great deal about managing. I never intended to
start cutt ing wigs except I couldn't stand NOT seeing those
beautiful faces that we work so hard to develop. So one day
I started to trim some wigs and I haven't laid the scissors
down yet.
My business has taken me to Canada , Puerto Rico and
all over the United States. I have met so many wonderful,
colorful people. It is a business where most of the people
are so happy doing what they are trained to do.
Above, Cheri's family (from left), husband
Rick, daughter Marin, son Jason, daughterin-law
Jennifer and Madame President.
Enthusiasm is always high and energy is the same. There
are no age restrictions or requirements, just a willing and
open heart and mind.
Q: Why did you run for COAi office?
A: A few years ago I decided to give back some time to
the very organization I had belonged to during my entire
clowning career. I ran for the COAi Board not knowing what
it would involve. As Past President Judy Quest once said,
"This is like trying to herd cats."
The workings of the organization have intrigued me.
The politics I could do without. I have so much I would like to
see happen . Just bringing people together from all over the
country to form a bond through an art they love is amazing . I
would like to continue some of the projects that have been
started and help develop new ones to help beginn ing
clowns and to further help and cha llenge clowns who have
been doing it a while.
Organizations do not run themselves. It takes a great
deal of time, energy , patience , foresight and the ability to
communicate to keep an organization going. People who
run for the COAi Board are there to express the needs and
develop the hopes of our members. I really want the Board
to be accessible to everyone and hear what our members
are saying.
As they say in New Orleans. "Let the good times roll."
With that thought in mind , let us begin with fresh
enthusiasm and let us continue to grow and develop .
1 O The New Calliope

July/August , 2000
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NAME
------------------
ADDRESS _________________
_
CITY ST ATE ZIP
-------- --- ------
PHONE _______ EMAIL _______ _
CLOWN NAME -------------
The New Calliope 11

July/August 2000
From the
President
By Cheri "Cherri-Oat s" Venturi
COAi President
I would like to thank all of you for your support in the
election. I would especially like to thank Judy Quest, our
past president , who put untold amounts of hours into
making sure all aspects of the election were followed . My
energy level is up and my enthusiasm is high. The COAi
Board has such a wonderful diversity that I know we will be
able to reach so many goals in the next few years.
Since I travel a great deal, I am going to do my
President's column from the conventions or regions that I
visit. I hope to be able to set up a time at each event to sit
down and discuss ideas and directions that the Board is
going. I also hope to recruit many individuals to help on
committees throughout the coming year. One of my goals is
to encourage more participation from COAi 's members. The
only way we can do this is through continual open lines of
commu nication.
Administratively, I would like to see manuals developed
for all procedures within the organizatio n. These manuals
will be complete and leave no quest ions as to what
directions we go to bid on the jobs of Webmaster, Business
Manager and Editor. We also should have a manual on
election procedures. These are insurance policies in case
somethi ng should happe n -- anyone could take over. It
would also make it unnecessary for us to waste time
reinve nting the whee l.
Marketing is another area we can concent rate on. We
need to gain new members as well as renew our "lost"
members. I would also like to see International participation
increase.
Some educatio nal goals:
+ To develop new programs that benefit both clowns
who are alley members and those who are not.
+ To develop a buddy system among alleys, so that a
new alley can be helped by the experience of alleys that are
already functioning.
+ To develop a mentor program to encourage our youth
to study the art of clowning.
+ To develop our special needs clowning population.
With the help of electronics, we have very few limits. We
can connect with people all over the clown world There are
so many exciting ways to travel. I will be looking for your
suggestions and your involvemen t If we work together we
can accomplished so much.
I look forward to working with you and for you. Hope to
see you down the road .
Board will fill 3 offices
Applications will be taken through Aug. 20 for three
COAi Board positions to be filled by appointment. Offices to
be filled include the Director of Membership and two
Regional Vice President slots: Northeast and Canada.
To date, each of the three offices has received one
applicant:
Paul S. Kleinberger, of Schenectady , NY, has
applied for the office of Director of Membership. He is
chairman of his alley's planning committee for the 2002
COAi Convention in Saratoga, NY, and was editor of the
Electric City Alley's newsletter that was awarded The New
Calliope 's Best of the Press 2000 Award.
Richard "Design-O" Smith, of Shrewsbury , MA,
has filed for the office of Northeast Regiona l Vice
President. Smith is COAi 's 1998 Clown of the Year and
won the individual CHARLIE Award for 2000 for his Clown
Week activities. He is a consistent national winner in
makeup/costume competition.
Agi Farkas-Hibbert, of Thunder Bay, ON, has filed
for the office of Canadian Regional Vice President. She has
just completed one term in that office.
Persons wishing to be considered for any of these
three positions should send a resume (postmarked no later
than Aug. 20), to Bob Gretton, who heads COAi 's
candidate search comm ittee . His address: 3411 Lisa Circle
Waldorf, MD 20601. .
COAi President Cheri Venturi said appointments will be
made during a Board conference call shortly after the
deadline for applications.
Got a question?
Need informat ion about COAi? Making a change of
address? Not getting your copy of The New
Calliope? Call COAi's Business Manager tollfree
Tuesdays and Thurdays between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m.EDT:
(888) 52-CLOWN
12 The New Calliope

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The New Calliope 13

July/August . 2000
A sai.lor ' s odyssey
Twenty-six
a retired
years
U.S.
By Don "Scooter" Hill
PO Box 10681
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
rogerf@seanet.com
I'm 49 years old. retired in May 1995 from the U.S.
Navy, a member in the submarine service during the Viet
Nam War. I have been clowning since 1993 as "Scooter ." I
did volunteer work at the local Naval hospital. bicycle clubs.
charity events . worked grand openings, street fairs.
birthday parties and church functions .
In October 1998, the founder of an organization called
"Kids First," Roger Ferrell, approached me and asked if I
would like to go to Viet Nam as a clown. The trip was to
provide a ceremony for the handicapped children of Dong
Ha. Quang Tri Province . and orphan children in Hue and
Haiphong . He explained that "Kids First" are invited guests
to Viet Nam and raise funds for the handicapped and poor
children there . The children are handicapped due to Agent
Orange (third generation) and/or land mine victims. and
Quang Tri is the poorest province in Viet Nam.
I felt honored to be asked. and couldn't refuse the
invitation . You see, while I was on active duty during the
Viet Nam War, I served on a 22-year-old diesel submarine in
1973. We were fully loaded with mines. torpedoes and
stores ready to lay mines in Haiphong Harbor. During a
training exercise preparing to deploy, we had a major
equipment failure and nearly sank off the coast of San
Diego. We did not take part in that mining operation
because of that accident. When Roger asked me to go, I felt
that I should, as an "Instrument of Peace" this time around.
I had several hurdles to overcome to get there . To take
part in this trip I had to raise $1,800. I did that with the help
of friends, relatives and fund raising with fellow members of
clown alleys (Kitsap Klown Alley and the Red Nose Brigade)
here in Washington State .
Several questions came to mind: How would I
overcome the language barrier? Would my costume be
suitable to the climate? Would I be accepted as a clown in an
unknown culture? Most important of all: Could I let go of my
thoughts of the Vietnamese people being my so-called
"enemy?"
Once we arrived in country I took two days to watch the
children play, to see their form of play, what made them
after his Vietnamese
sailor completes the
war duty,
. .
mzsszon
laugh, what frightened them as well. This was a Godsend. I
visited the Hoa Lo Prison historic relic, the old "'Hanoi
Hilton ," where American POWs were held and tortured . I
learned a great deal. that there also were men , women and
children who were imprisoned there politically . Many never
made it out alive.
They have turned the Hanoi Hilton into a memorial and
business center. It was not a pleasant place. It was a place of
true/pure terror . I sat in the very heavy stocks myself to get
the feel of what it was like inside and even sat next to the
guillotine in the prisoner holding area.
A Vietnamese child with his parents had a beach ball
with him. I changed my thoughts of placing large amounts of
balloons in the water to simulate the mining of Haiphong
Harbor (as a mockery) to a more meaningful ceremony with
one single giant balloon and flowers .
When we arrived in Dong Ha town for Scooter 's first
appearance at the children's award ceremony, I was led to a
small dark room behind the stage. The room was dimly
illuminated by a single light bulb suspended from the
ceiling, no windows. I had 45 minutes in which to apply
makeup and dress , no idea of the stage set-up or what I
was going to do until a split second before it happened. I
entered with a siren whistle, bells on my shoes (which is part
of my costume), carry ing a large inflated hammer, a rubber
chicken, frog and beaver puppet and a squeak horn
hanging out of my pocket.
The Vietnamese people never had seen a rubber
chicken. They thought I was a spirit rather than a man. They
would touch me to see if I was real. I would respond with a
bow as a sign of respect and a gentle squeak of my horn
and SMILE. I was a hit!
I was presented with gifts and heartfelt thanks by the
Director of the External Relations Department of Quang Tri
Province, Hoang Dang Mai. With tears in his eyes (a grown
man), he told me, "Thank you for making our children smile
and laugh . Thank you for coming to Viet Nam."
The places we visited and I was seen in costume:
Hanoi. Haiphong (Haiphong Orphanage), Hue (Care
Orphan Institute Due, Son Pagoda), DMZ, Dong Ha
(Handicapped children of Quang Tri Province ) and the Hue
Continued page 16
14 The New Calliope

July/August , 2000
First
visit
Above, Scooter, surrounded by kids at the Children's Orphanage
in Haiphong. Lower left, his first makeup room backstage in Dong
Ha. Lower right , Scooter releases a balloon sculpture in Haiphong
Harbor to honor all who lost their lives in the Vietnamese War.
The New Calliope 15

July/August, 2000
Vietnam
From page 14
orphanage.
--
The most rewarding experience came at the Haiphong
Orphanage when I was introduced to a six-year-old girl
named Mai Ai (pronounced Me I). She is a deaf mute and
has a sight impairment. The house mothers believe her to
be mentally retarded .
I squatted down to see her and went to touch her with
my right index finger. She reached out to me and grabbed
my finger and squeezed it. I picked her up and looked into
her eyes and saw a spark grow into a burst of radiant light
before my very eyes. We got red nose to nose and I felt
laughter rumble from the tip of her toes and vibrate through
her entire body . She could not stop giggling and laughing. I
glanced at the house mothers and noticed that they held
their hands over their mouths looking at each other in
disbelief and gasping. They then told me they never ever
heard Mai Ai laugh before
To leave the orphanage , the others in our group had to
gather the children to take their picture, to draw attention
away from Scooter so I could get on the bus. Even today
when I close my eyes, I can see their faces and hands
pressed against the bus glass , asking me to stay and to
come back.
I have never had tears in my eyes while performing here
in the states, nor been so moved as I was in Viet Nam. Even
before I returned home, I made a commitment to go back.
And I did , exactly a year later, in February 2000.
The initial trip was a ground breaking trip. Having fellow
clowns with me on the February 2000 trip made the
experience much more rewarding. I could see the magic
dance between the children and clowns and feel many
wounds heal.
On this trip, I was accompanied by Lois "Tootie" Kerr (a
member of a clown alley, who works for Boeing in Seattle),
and Michael "Safari" Keesling, a friend with whom I have
clowned over the years. The three of us performed for
many children and families in HCM City, Dong Ha, Hanoi and
Haiphong .
We performed for handicapped children of Dong Ha,
the poor children education center there, and the Care
Institute Orphanage in Quang Tri , and Hoaphuong
Orphanage in Hanoi. At the Danaan Parry Landmine
Center, Safari fabricated clown landmine removal gear for
Mark Pirie, director of the Mine Awareness Program. This
helped lighten Mark's load with comic relief in the very
important and dangerous job of removing landmines and
unexploded ordnance in Viet Nam and through the world.
We three clowns entertained well over 500 children in
our 13-day tour . Ritchie "Sparky" Moore, an 11-year-old boy
who was traveling in our group with his mother, became an
honorary clown, and performed with us in Haiphong.
On March 1, we met with the U.S. Ambassador to Viet
Nam, the Hon. Pete Peterson , in Hanoi. He thanked "Kids
First" for groups like ours making his job and those of his
colleagues in Washington easier in restoring a new
relationship with a new Viet Nam. Safari made the
ambassador a balloon hat.
In Haiphong , the director of the orphanage told me she
had a surprise for me: Two teenage boys became clowns
after my 1999 visit. They waited a year so they could show
me what they had put togethe r in a skit and magic show.
They were dressed in new, bright, colorful clothes, no
makeup , but they had a wonderful time. It brought tears to
my eyes; once again, the children gave back to me
something more valuable than money.
The little girl, Mai Ai, is now seven years old and in a
wheel chair. She is now responding to others and to bright
colors . She is not the withdrawn child I was first introduced
to a year earlier. Something wonderful happened to her.
The directors of the Foreign Relations Department of
Quang Tri Province, Mr. Tan and Mr. Quang, and Le Thi Dai,
director of the Hoaphuong Orphan-Bringing-Up and
Education Village in Hanoi, want me to bring back clowns
each February and maybe teach clowning in Viet Nam. I told
them I would commit to returning each February to help
celebrate with the children and to celebrate the efforts put
forth by the Peoples Committee , orphanages and "Kids
First," who are making better the lives of the children of Viet
Nam.
Kids First, with whom we trouped , arrived in Ho Chi Min
City on Feb. 20, 2000. Our first clown visit came at the
Christina Noble Children 's Foundation . This facility houses
some 80 inpatient children and provides services for 400-
600 outpatients each month. We stopped traffic and
caused gridlock In Ho Chi Min City for about 45 minutes as
we got out of our taxi in front of our hotel in costume after
our visit at the Christina Noble Foundation . Later that night
at a dinner party, we were told that the clowns were the talk
of the city .
16 The New Calliope

July/August 2000
Second visit
Top, a quartet of clowns (from
left):Scooter, Tootie,Sparky,
Safari. Center, Scooter is reunited
with Mai Ai. Bottom,
clown gridlock in downtown
Ho Chi Min City.
The New Calliope 17

J 1 11 y,August 2000
COAi lnternat,onal Amba ssadors--
Repor t S from abroad
At least 141oeys have been appomted COAi
lnternatIonal Ambassadors since the program was initiated
nearly two years ago They have v,s,ted 17 countries and
have helped bnng the internaflonal clowning community
closer toge ther
security and land for peace deals.
Raphael and his wife Chava hosted a gathering in their
home in Jerusalem which was attended by clowns and
various other performers . The talented artists were Jewish
COAi members who are planning tnps to other
countries. and who are interested in becoming a COAi
International Ambassador. are encouraged to contact Keith
"Toby '' Stokes. COAi's International Marketing Director He
will assist you in the appointment process and work with you
to make your appointme nt a success and a pleasure
Contac t Stokes at
1539 La ke Clay Dr.
Lake Placid FL 33852
Phone (9 4 1) 465 -4438. Fax: (94 1) 4 65 -2 731
email : deelou @htn .net
Here are reports from two COAi International
Ambassadors who recently visited clowns in three
countri es.
By Cecelia "Rhinestones " Copeland
COAi Ambassado r to Israel
8521 Walnut Grove
San Angelo, TX 76901
Each time I travel to Israel it is a new adventure . I must
say that my last trip through security was easier than any of
my previous ones Perhaps it was a combination of my COAi
badge and they have become well acquainted with my face
and all the strange things this clown packs in suitcases .
With every visit to Israel, I have gained new friends that
have become extended family . Last winter it was by the
finger of God that I became friends with Raphael Harris, his
wife and six children. It was on Tu B'Shvat 15th (Jewish
Arbor Day, Feb. 1) that I met Raphael during a performan ce
at Mahane Yehuda Market Raphael teaches juggling and
unicycling to young children and hopes to expand his
group to include clowning . A New York born graduate from
Long Island University, Raphael was proprietor of Sir
Juggley 's Circus before moving to Israel and becoming a
Rabbi. His performances include weddings , bar mitzvahs ,
festivals , large audiences and an event this past summer
which Prime Minister Netanyahu attended .
Because of our friendship , I contacted Raphael , as well
as the Israeli Ambassador to the United States, regarding
my intended trip to Israel as COAi 's International
Ambassador . I never received a reply from the Israeli
Embassy , but that is understandable since they are
overwhelmed with the political events concerning Israel 's
Rhinestones works crowd in Jewish quarter
of the Old City of Jerusalem
immigrants from Russia, Canada , Belarus, the Ukraine,
England , Australia and America . Tale nts of the entertainers
include clowning , juggling , magic , balloon art, circus
acrobatics and contortion.Three had been with the Moscow
circus .
Leeba Rappeport , originally from Canada, performs for
women 's groups and children 's partie s. She has combined
mime , clowning , juggling and sillines s in her routine.
Avraham Landau moved to Jerusalem from New York and
works as a clown at festivals and birthday parties. Shmuel
Jacobs moved from California to Israel. He is an amazing
contortion ist, musicia n, magician and juggler .There are so
many great circus performers now living in Israel that it's
difficult to find steady work . Many tour other countries in
order to make a living.
Anatoly Akerman asked me for help in finding a circus
agent in the States . If anyone reading this article can help
me help him, please do contact me. These are top-notch
artists -- I saw their video !
We all had a wonderfully memorable time and the
evening passed much too quickly . Langua ge was
translated from English to Hebrew to Russian while I
Continued page 20
18 The New Calliope

.July/August 2000
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The New Calliope 19

July/August. 2000
Anibassadors --
From page 1 8
explained the benef its of COAi membership , then from
Russian to Hebrew to English for questions and comments .
The event was as diversified in language and English
accents as it was in skills and talents. But the language of
love, smiles and laughter is universal.
My four-week stay also included entertaining children in
the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. I felt like
the pied piper! As Rhinestones walked through the Jewish
Quarter to the square near the Cardo , more children joined
the parade of curious followers with each step. Three hours
later, I explained that I had to go. Quickly I found refuge at
Tzaddik 's World Famous Deli near the Burnt House and just
a few yards from the stairs leading down to the Western
Wall. I had met the owner , Buddy Frankel, several days
before and had eaten a few meals there with friends. Later, I
surprised a young man who was giving a surprise birthday
party for his girl friend at Tzaddik 's. We added some of my
balloon sculptures to the decorations for a very festive
atmosphere . While we waited for the party to begin, I
entertained a Jewish family visiting from France . When the
guest of honor arrived , she was speechless. We all had
much fun; even a stray cat was enjoying all the attention she
was receiving . Another great opportuni ty to bring love,
smiles and joy.
My bus ride into Jerusalem from Bet El that day was
truly a new adventure. My friends and I were among the first
on the bus that morning . The driver never expected a clown
as a passenger . Each stop picked up more travelers
surprised to find Rhinestones handing out balloon
creations. My friends sat several seats behind me so they
could watch the reactions of the people being greeted by
the clown as they boarded . They all agreed that they had
never experienced such fun on a bus!
I returned home with sweet memories of all my friends ,
both new and old , and the experiences we shared . And , of
course , I plan to return in the fall.
Portugal and Spain
By Forrest "Muggins" Wheeler
PO Box 283
Vernonia, OR 97064
Armed with correspondence from the Ambassadors of
Spain and Portugal, COAi assorted materials , contact
information on three clowns, a very impressive and officiallooking
name tag , and a four week guided tour of Portugal
and Spain, I arrived in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal.
I was feeling somewhat a failure at being an
Ambassador when I casually asked the desk clerk, "Do you
know of any clowns?" Looking intently as he handed me my
room key, ·'Chapito l Yes, that is the clown school in
Lisbon. "
The next morning a note was handed to me. It had the
name Teresa "Te-Te " Rieou, the director of Chapito, plus
her phone number . This uncomp licated note brought me
into contact with the person who took a woman 's prison and
converted it into a cultural center.
As I climbed the steep, narrow winding streets to an
area of Lisbon known as "The Citadel ," I should have
guessed that Teresa "Te-Te' Rieou would be a very
extraordinary clown . For, everyone for miles around Lisbon
(a city of more than 3 million people) know of Chapito, a
school for clowns.
Numbers 1 through 7 Costa do Castelo is several
thousand square feet of structure spread one level above
the other some five stories high. It was once a women's
prison. Now it serves as the quarters for the development of
performing arts. It has centers set aside for leisure and
social action. It houses
a school for clowning
with courses that run
from from 9 a.m. to 6:30
p.m. And, far from least,
it provides a restaurant
with an inside circus
tent serving as a stage
for clown
performances.
•
The programs housed
within the physical
structure are but a
portion of the Chapito
legend. Chap ito not
only invites the public
to performances, but
also goes into the
community using the
"clown theme ." The
clowns, using their
Mugglns
costume , makeup and performance skills, provide dignity
and self-worth to the minorities and underprivileged
through education and personal involvement.
Te-Te is a soft-mannered woman whose eyes flash with
excitement and inspiration. Starting as a street and circus
performer , Chapito is her dream and creation . About 20
years ago she started a small skill development school for
clowns. Later, she involved civic, cultural and social
programs as an outlet for her advanced students. This
combination of developing the performing arts to become a
Continued page 22
20 The New Calliope

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The New Calliope 21

July/August . 2000
Ambassadors --
From page 20
clown with the need for community involvement brought
Te-Te to the attention of the public. Through gifts and
grants, she was finally able to develop a polyvalent cultural
activity center .
Te-Te the clown is an everyday person . She has no
titles of royalty. She is not and never will be rich in terms of
money But those warm flashing eyes reflect the rich
satisfaction each day brings. She radiates happiness
resulting from her love of Portugal and its culture . She
shows satisfaction resulting from 20 years of personal and
financial sacrifice. She is the living example of becoming
what being a clown is all about.
Spain was a different story. In Madrid, COAi had located
an association of clowns called Club de Los Pavasos
Espanoles and another organization called Associacion de
Malabristas . A quick call to Club Espanoles revealed that no
one spoke English. So, while they arranged for me to visit
while someone who could speak English would be present ,
I focused on Malabristas, a special program created and
directed by An American, Donald Lehn. His program
operates from a one-ring circus tent in Casa del Campo .
Casa del Campo consists of 640 park-like acres in the
middle of Madrid. It houses a huge amusement park,
magnificent zoo and several pavilions for displays and
activities. Tucked off to the side in the center of the park,
across from a youth hostel, sits a single circus tent amongst
several recreational vehicles , all of which supports project
"Carampa."
Carampa houses an extensive library for clowns,
supports a circus school with nine professional instructors,
publishes a quarterly newspaper, sponsors several circus
festivals and conducts workshops for school children. This
is the creation of American Donald B. Lehn.
Two decades ago, Lehn was hustling coins as a street
entertainer in New York. The search for adventure brought
him to Europe and finally to Spain. In Madrid he met a group
of seasoned clowns belonging to Club de Los Payasos
Espanoles. These seasoned Spanish clowns were looking
for someone with youth and energy. Donald was looking for
someplace to hang his clowning profession. A providential
union ensued.
It was a slow and meager existence for the first five
years. Finally, in 1988 his effort to create a school for circus
artists was recognized by the Spanish government. In 1994
the government provided the resources to put up a circus
tent, props, funds for instruction and vehicles for storage.
Today, Carampa has a membership of more than 600
individuals , 100 professional artists and 150 volunteers
Most of these people are between 14 and 35 years of age.
What is amazing is that Donald is not a citizen of Spain.
He is an American in Spain. He models to the Spanish, what
Yankee dedication and perseverance can do. He serves as
an inspiration to all of us to reach out and seek the
unimaginable ; to bring laughter and hope to our
communities , regardless of location or circumstance.
I look back on those four days in Madrid and that special
day in Lisbon as the significant portion of a four-week
guided tour of Portugal and Spain . The tour company did a
superb job of exposing me to the history, geography ,
people and places of these two countries . But it was the
COAi International Ambassador program that brought life,
vitality and purpose to my travels.
Don't forget that bonus
COAi members are reminded that the bonus for signing
up new members is still in effect.
That means you can get your COAi membership paid by
signing up 10 new members. And it doesn 't matter how
long it takes for you to hit the magic mark; your credits for
new members carries over from year to year.
Just make sure that you include your name as sponsor
somewhere on the membership application blank, like
along the bottom margin. Just mark it "Sponsor --" and your
name.
Oops!
One of COAi's joeys was misidentified in a picture in the
May/June, 2000, of The New Calliope.The cutlines named
two clowns , Jackie Garner and Chandra Luce, as first place
winners in group skits. The pair did indeed win first place,
but that wasn't Chandra Luce in the picture -- it was COAi's
Treasurer, Teresa Gretton. We regret the error.
National Conference
Fehrn;in· Hi-I 8. :2001
Duane Laflin, Buddy Lamb,
Carol Phipps and Others
For /nformativ11 call
Windermere Conferen ce Center at
800-346-2215
www.sltmvmeclownsforjesus.org
22 The New Calliope

July/August , 2000
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Tony Jones • 1061 Indian Bend Dr• Rutledge, Ga 30663 • 706-557-9821
• Join the Association - Open to Any Clown in the U.S.
• Membership Benefit is Coverage Under the
Association's Master Policy. Liability Limit of
$2,000,000 with NO Deductible.
• Membership is $95 Per Year.
Policy Renews April 25th.
• Certificate of Insurance to be Sent Out
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• Need Name and Complete Address
With a Check Made Out To:
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Ph: (651) 738-0280
The New Calliope 23

July/August , 2000
Our goal at Clownfest is to have something for everybody from the very novice clown to the seasoned
professional. Clownfest has over thirty speakers and over forty-five lectures and workshops in the clown
arts to choose from. Clowns are sure to take away some great new skills and ideas. Our schedule has a
prestigious
list of trainers and this is an event that will surely enhance your clowning experience.
Clownfest is designed for FUN too. No other clown event has a big clown parade
and a full big top circus with so many activities that put clown artists
out in front with the spectators.
Lot's of FUN and lot's of education ... an edu-vention/ We coined the phrase and we live by it.
"/)04/,, For TIH Ko1s1 ... "Be sure to get into this great
FUN activity along the boardwalk on Saturday afternoon.
It's a mad dash on the sandy beach l,y the clowns doing some
zany activities with a pie-posterous
ending. It will l,e a
splashing FUN time. See clowns create a 1,alloon,juggle some
scarves wearing kitchen mitts and more all at a riotous pace.
Top off the merry race with a splash of water and a
"kamakazi-pie" in the puss. It's sure to be a sog-cess/
"ftl,llf,Ur FflK Frotk ••• "We've added one more great
event for you. Join in with the audience on the !,each on
Saturday for more FUN as folks frolic with safe family style
games. Clowns will bring parachute games, beach balls, hoola
hoops, stickers and a heart full of FUN. Enjoy this super
event and come to play, Have FUN, be FUN/
"Clow11,f'e1t Big Top Cirtw .•• "It's
FUN at the circus,
under the big top, with a special Circus Gala on Saturday.
Highlighting this grand event will 1,e circus acts from around
the world. See the world famous circus artists
and clowns
in action. "Great FUN for children of all ages/"
"Ko,zoo too rou ..."Clowns strut their stuff as they band
together down the boardwalk on Saturday afternoon in
the "All Clown Kazoo Band". It'll be a humdinger.
"Clow11,f'e1t OIi, PtUYUJs ..• "On Sunday afternoon,
at 2 p.m., plan l,e in the traditional
"BIG Boardwalk Clown
Parade" with !,ands and more all marching on the boardwalk.
Over twenty thousand spectators
will l,e looking for YOU!
NATIONAL CLOWN ARTS PROJECT, INC.
240 Swimming River Road #C
Colts Neck, New Jersey 07722-1528
Clownfe6t i6 the Regi6tered Trademark of the N.C.A.P.,lnc.
24 The New Calliope
"Ctow11,f'e1t HtuH FflK Ts.,,,,, ••. "
Joseph Barney Bot, Gibbons David Mitchell
Paula Biggio Cathy Gibbons Rex Nolan
Tricia Bothun Marta Gonzales Vincent A. Pagliano
Dale 6othun John 6. Hall Vincent F. Pagliano
Jimmy Brown Jim Howle Rosalind Pagliano
Marilyn Caruso Joann Ihnat Marie Persson
Richard Caruso Tony Jones Eric Persson
Betty Cash Duane Laflin Jose' Rivera
Fred Collins Mary Laflin Fred Schlosshauer
Leo Desilets Jennifer Lasche JT Sikes
Glenda Desilets Michael lasche Cheri Venturi
Vincent Delaney Steve long Lois Ziperson
David Finnigan Dean Martin Stan Ziperson
Jeff Gant
Theresa Garrett
Leon McBryde
Linda McBryde
"Your CtowlUll,f AeiusH11H11,t •.. "
Clownfest will present a "Certificate of Completion" as your
achievement award to all those that complete at least five
classes, one public event and the parade. You will carry your
accreditation
and events.
card and get it stamped at each of the classes
At the end of the parade on Sunday you will cross the main
stage and turn in your card for your certificate
and the
commemorative enameled pin. All the cards are then used in
an on the spot drawing for some special clown prizes.

CLOWNFEST ... there is nothing like it! It's an original!
Experience more speakers, more classes, the "Red Nose
Coaching Program", makeup competition, pul,lic performances,
with a full i,ig top circus, and a thrilling i,ig clown parade with
marching !,ands and 20,000 spectators
on Sunday afternoon.
CLOWNFEST is a jam packed mix of learning, clown performances
and FUN! It's an edu-vention. Earn your "Clownfest Certificate
of Completion" l,y attending classes, pul,lic events and the
1,ig parade. Coaching and competition designed for personal
growth is open to participants with a full registration only.
"Together ... bringing Clowning into th 21st Century."
Alter
Register Early & SAVE
By July 10 By Aug. Aug.14 a,.
All rates are in US funds. 14 at the Door
PRE-TRAINING DAY ONLY- Sept. 13
Ministry. Car ing or Novice Clown
ADULT REGISTRATION-
SEPTEMBER 14, 15, 16 & 17. 2000
JUNIOR REGISTRATION-
16 years of age and younger
$40. $45.
$50.
Day Rate
*$85. $90. $100.
*$65. $70. $75.
19th ANNUAL EDITION
SEPTEMBER 14, 15, 16 & 17, 2000
PRE-TRAINING SEPT. 13, 2000
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NEW JERSEY
SUN & FUN RESORT
5 BIG DAYS OF CLOWN FUN!
* PRE-TRAINING DAY FOR THE NOVICE,
THE MINISTRY & THE CARING CLOWN
* FEATURING OVER 30 SPEAKERS
* OVER 40 SEMINARS & WORKSHOPS
* ADVANCED TRAINING & ROUND TA6LES
* RED NOSE COACHING PROGRAM FOR
CLOWN PERFORMANCE & PARADA61LITY
* MAKE-UP & COSTUME COMPETITION
* 60ARDWALK SHOWS & EVENTS
* CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION
* SUNDAY CLOWN PARADE
* 61G TOP CIRCUS & MORE ...
FREE GIFT FOR YOU ...
FREE souvenir gift to the first 100 registrants ...
plus reserved seating at the Circus Gala.
PARADE BONUS ...
FREE commemorative enamel pin and a group photc
will 1,e given to all parade participants.
ACCOMMODATIONS ...
AZTEC OCEAN RESORT
901 BOARDWALK
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ 08751
*Regular run registration by July 10, 2000 Includes FREE pre-training day. (732) 793-3000
A $1 0. processing fee will be placed on all donations that are cance led
before the cut off date . No cancellations or refunds after Aug.14. 2000.
Make checks payable to N.C.A.P., Inc. In US funds only.
Special "Clownfeet" package rates for two, thre e and four days are availal>le.
Accommodations at the Aztec (motel) are limited so ask to l>e directed to
other lodging once this motel is filled. Clownfeet fills over a dozen motels.
Produced by the National Clown Arts Project, Inc. * Email: Clownfest@aol.com
Web Site: http://members.aol.com/clownfest/1999.html * Or search - Clownfest and coming soon - Clownfest.com
............ Mall With Check to: N.C.A.P., Inc. c/o 240 Swimming River Road, Colts Neck, NJ 07722-1528 - - - - - - - - - - - -
Please Print clear1y in ink. One person per registration form:
Given Name ------------------ --- Clown Name
-----------
Address -- --- -------------------------- ----- ----
City _____ __________ State ________ Zip ______ _
Phone ( ) ______ _ Email ____________ _
Pre-Training Day ..... US$ __
Adult Registration ... US $
O Ministry O Novice O Caring Clown
O Parade Participant O Certificate Program
Junior Registration .. US $ Age __ Photocopy For Additional Registrations
Box For Official Use Only
Date:_/ _ '00
#
-----
• FREE Pre-Day O FREE Gift
0 Certificate
The New Calliope 25

July/August 2000
Taking
control
By Margaret 'Maggie the Magical Clown" Clauder
916 Wayland Dr.
Arlington, TX 76012
Much has been said about crowd control in all sorts of
situations . I would like to touch on crowd control m the
different venues that I entertain in and how I handle it.
BIRTHDAY PARTIES: I find out in advance how
many children will be at the party when the event is originally
booked . When I call to reconfirm the date a day or two
ahead of time , I also reconfirm the count of children and
adults . Without failure , the number changes . At birthday
parties, you must always be prepared for the number of
children . If you play music in your show , your boom box
must be loud enough so your audience can hear it. I always
use a karaoke system with a microphone . I want to be
assured of being heard over all the noise of parents talking ,
babies crying, etc. If you have not invested in a good sound
system that works for you -- do it! It is very hard to keep
control if you cannot be heard . If you are performing
outdoors , make sure your system will either run on
batteries , or take extension cords with you.
Often you will have noisy and rude parents at a child's
birthday party. I try to do my show in a separate room from
the adults if they want to socialize. If this is not possible, I try
and draw the adults into my show. The adults will all quiet
down and watch your show , too , if you are using a parent
and their child as co-helpers in a magic trick . Also, if older
children are at a party, by using a parent-child combination
as volunteers, if the child acts up during the performance ,
the parent is right next to them to get them under control.
You should establish your "magic line" at the beginning
of the show . I tell the children that my rope on the floor (or
some other barrier) is my magic line. They need to sit
behind this magic line during the show. I tell the children
that they will be able to see everything BETTER if they sit
back a little bit. Also, I will be less likely to spill something on
them . Boy, do they move back then!
I have also pulled little tricks during the middle of my
show on children that keep
scooting up. I act like I am
about to sneeze I do the
ah-ah-ah and stop with my
finger under my nose. I tell
them . "That was close -- I
almost sneezed on you!"
This usually works well.
I tell the Children at the
beginning that I will be
choosing a number of
volunteers from the
audience . I always choose
volunteers who are sitting
on their bottoms , really
straight and tall, with a big
smile on their faces I may
remind the children a time
or two during the show that
I am watching to see who I
am going to pick to be a
helper . They usually restraighten up at that point
I also sometimes will give some sort of little prize to a
volunteer for helping me . This makes all the children want to
get to be my helper . so they all behave . (Bribery works!)
FAIRS AND FESTIVALS: If I am making balloon
animals or facing painting , I try to get in a location where I am
not off by myself (for protection) . I will back myself up
against a tree, a pole, a wall, or some type of natural form of
protection . I don't want my back to be exposed so that I
cannot see what is going on behind me. Controlling lines of
people can be difficult when doing activities such as face
painting or balloons . I have taken ropes for people to hold
onto in line so that they are all lined up in order. The
advantage of having a long rope is that if you need to curve
your line around in a strange way, or pick up and move your
line later, the people just walk along holding onto the rope.
This can be difficult when some people do not figure out to
keep moving up on the rope as the line shortens .
My favorite form of crowd control when I work a fair or
festival is to use tickets . I work four one-hour shifts I will
hand out tickets for the balloons . Each ticket has a number
on it. I just remember or write down the first number and as I
finish each balloon, I call out the next number . I will only give
out a certain number of tickets for each hour. When I have
given out all the tickets for that session , I just tell the people
when and where I will be for the next session .
The great thing about this is there is no cutting in line.
People do not have to even wait in line. I can tell the people
after they get their ticket to come back in 20 minutes , or
whatever I think the wait will be. The people and fair
managers love this . People do not gripe about standing in
Continued page 28
26 The New Calliope

July/August , 2000
Cheerful Clown Alley #166
presents:
COMEDY CLASSICS
18 th Annual
Texas Clown Association
Convention
October 5-8, 2000
Radisson Hotel & Conference Center
Hobby Airport Houston
9100 Gulf Freeway
Houston, TX 77017
713/943-7979
Room Rat e: $82/night
Single/Double/
T r iple/Quad
Convention Registration Fee:
• $80 4/1/00 -8/31/00
D $90 9/1/2000 - 10/8/2000
Registration includes admission for .one to all
cor.vention workshops, compet itions , dealer
room, Theme Party, Awards banquet and
Br eakfast buffe t .
Head Ii ners/Lecturers:
Steve Peachey Keene Long
Duane Laflin
Paula Stickers Biggio
Mary Sugar Plum Lostak
Ralph Dewey, Kim Tutti rrutti Oxford ,
Joel Straws Rubert and more
Mor e than 18 workshops and 8 competi tion
categories! For additional convention info ,
tra vel tips or a registration form -- contact
Lisa Twinkles Ezell at 713/460 -4544 or email
TCA2000@Cheerful.com
BUY an AD - WIN a PAIR of
BILLY PRINCE CLOWN SHOES!!!
For each personal ad purchased for the
convention program you will qualif y for a
chance to win a pair of custom clown shoes.
Pr ices start as low as $15 . There 's no limit to
the number of ads you can buy. You need not
be present to win!
to place your ad contact:
Dr. Dolly at 281/861-6776
dol lyt ca2000@ao l.com
For more information or
or email her at
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The New Calliope 27

July/August , 2000
Control --
From page 26
long lines for long periods of time. Also , everyone can get
around me and watch me do whatever I am doing without
worrying about being in a line. I provide the tickets . I buy
them from US Toy.
I will start a session by making a fantastic multiple
balloon . At the end of my time I pass out tickets to everyone
in my area (from a double ticket roll) that was not able to get
a ticket for a balloon . I then have a drawing for the super
balloon . People love this!
The creation I make is mostly made on my own time
before I start making balloons for everyone. I regard it as my
time to play, create and show off my talent. I will make this
balloon out in the open , so people can watch me create. I
have on a sign saying what time the balloons session starts,
and I create the super balloon before I begin to give out
tickets for the session .
I do not make fancy multiple balloons when I am
working at a festival. Two and three balloon creations are my
limit unless it is a slow day. I want to turn out as many nice
balloons as I can. I mostly avoid the time-consuming
cartoons and save those for my balloon giveaway. The
super balloon , though , attracts attention to my area and also
pleases everyone who gets in on the drawings . If someone
does not have a chance to get in on the drawings. I just
remind them that there will be more during the day.
COMEBACKS: Harry Allen of Daytona Magic sells
several booklets on comebacks for hecklers. His books are
good and you may wish to check them out. You have to be
very careful using comebacks for hecklers , though. The
hecklers could be made to feel empowered by your
attention, and the heckling could escalate.
I have noticed older boys love to heckle magicians and
clowns . Whenever I perform at blue and gold banquets for
Scouts I always have a long talk with the scoutmasters
before the show regarding hecklers. I tell them that I do not
tolerate heckling and it is their job to control children who
are being rude. I have seen the scout leaders go over to
problem children and whisper in their ear during a show.
That usually is all that is needed.
I have on rare occasions interrupted my show to say
something regarding the behavior in a nice way. I have tried
getting the heckler up on stage with me and pulling a
sucker trick on them. I really don 't care for this approach, as
it tends to encourage the child to want to get me back later. I
prefer performing sucker tricks with adults at the event , with
whom I have talked in advance about being volunteers in
front of the kids. These work very well in getting and
keeping the childrens ' attention . They enjoy seeing the
scoutmaster have his underwear (funny boxers) pulled out,
or some other such nonsense . I also find that some group
sucker tricks like "What's Next?" work really well in keeping
aud ience attention and contro l.
TEACHING: In performing for older children, I find
they enjoy being able to show off by getting to answe r
questi ons. I may ask for a voluntee r who can recite the
Scout 's pledge or motto and tie that in with a magic trick. I
may ask a basic moral question while performing a trick that
ties in with the message. I also like to hand out things to
teach the kids. I have taught magic at Scout meetings ,
birthday parties , and picnics. The kids love hands-on magic.
I will teach several simple make it yourself tricks and then
have a mini-magic show. I have several children stand uo
and perform the trick for the group. It is great fun. It also
keeps them all interested, involved .and under better
control.
While performing at a day care center, I went through
my usual introduction and asked the children to please
remain in their places during the show and stay seated . This
was a new center where I had not performed before. I asked
the chi ldren to please remain sitting during the show, just
like I usually do. This show did not use volunteers , so I
could not use the line about picking well behaved children
to help me. My request did not get their attention ; the
teachers were not doing anything to help , eithe r. I could tell
this crowd was very poorly discipl ined by the teache rs.
The first act of my show was a puppet routine. I told the
children I have a puppet who has a great song I would like
her to sing, but he is afraid to come out. I started carrying on
a conversation with the puppet in my trunk , begging her to
come out. The children could not see her. I wanted to make
the children WANT to behave. I wanted to take charge of
this room from the beginning.
I quietly carried on my conversation with Kesha, my
puppet. She was afraid the children would get out of their
seats and come up and pull her pigtails. I told her they were
all NICE CHILDREN WHO WERE VERY WELL BEHAVED.
The children all started nodding yes and a few said, "We
won 't pull her hair." After a few minutes of pleading with my
puppet, she slowly and cautiously came out of my trunk.
Kesha was visibly shaking with fear . I explained to the
children that she was afraid because she has only
performed a few times and at one school a child came up
and pulled her pigtails , and she has been scared to sing
ever since,
Every time a child would talk loudly, Kesha would shake
and go back into the trunk. I told the children ,"! guess we
will have to be very quiet and sit very still so we don't scare
Kesha. Maybe if we do that, she will come out and sing for
us ."
When I felt the children were totally in my control , I
Continued page 30
28 The New Calliope

July/August , 2000
BEHIND THE BIG
RED NOSE
A serious look at how to develop
your talents and discover your
direction in today's clowning
by Da\'id Bartlett a.k .a. Mr. Rainbow
Collection of columns. some material pre\'iousl
published in the Pot Of Gold series.
Send check for $35 to David Bartlett
l-t27 Acadia St. Durham, N.C. 27701
"ft to11ches so many areas that people need
to think ahou/ and knoll' he.fore 1he_1' step
0111 the door .fiJr lhe_first tim e in dmrn .
.. .. 11 hat _1·ou talk ahout is the
.fimnd ation of c-lmming. 11
Bob Gretton, Maryland
''... an im·e st111e111 ... yo11 11·ill use.for the rest
of r our career. 11
Denise Hall, Florida
/:·,·er \' dm rn should rea d //,is .I"
Leon McBr~·de, Virginia .
11
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The New Calliope 29
•

July/August . 2000
Control --
Fro m p age 28
allowed Kesha to begin her song. As she was sIngIng, one
very small toddler in the front row got up and started coming
toward Kesha. I knew if I did not stop this immediately, all of
the children would soon be up around me and the show
would not be able to continue
I let Kesha be the bad guy. When the little boy got
close , Kesha started screaming, "Teacher, teacher , this
little boy is coming up to pull my pigtails!" Immediately a
teacher came and picked up the toddler and took him to
the back of the room to watch the rest of the show. Kesha
finished her song . I finished the show. All the rest of the
children were as good as gold. I had kept control!
Finally, I realized I had made a very valuable
observation. The children reacted much better when they
were not lectured to, yelled at, criticized . or threatened. I
had somehow , through the use of a little puppet.gotten
them to behave in the manner I wanted, and we all had an
enjoyable time because of it.
Last walkaround
Lyle "Howie the Balloon Clown" Howard
Lyle "Howie the Balloon Clown" Howard, 84, of Ft.
Smith, AR, made his last walkaround Sept. 4, 1999.
Lyle was a SO-mission Air Force crewman during World
War II, the winner of the Bronze Star and Distinguished
Flying Cross. He was married to Margaret Rinne in 1984,
and did most of his clowning in the Washington, DC, area.
In a funeral eulogy, Henry Rinne, Margaret's son, said
this of Howie: "He enjoyed the makeup and joy and the
acting silly that all goes with the art of clowning, but where
Lyle found his bliss was in the children."
Friends and relatives mourn his passing.
Donna Joe "Sassy Fras" Meister
Donna Jo "Sassy Fras" Meister , 52, of Houston, TX ,
made her last walkaround May 22, 2000.
A Whiteface , people-working clown for 20 years,
Donna Jo influenced everyone she met. Some of the
countless organizations she worked with include the
Arlington Fire Dept., Love For Kids, Prevent Blindness of
Texas , DFW Airport Ambassadors, Arlington Citye n Fire
Academy Alumni, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and
Ronald McDonald House.
Donna fought a rare inflammatory breast cancer, which
infiltrated her liver. In her final act of
volunteerism, she bequeathed her body
for medical research .
Donna Jo 's "Celebration of Life" service
launched 144 balloons in her honor.
Friends and acquaintances are honoring
her through a memorial fund : Donna
Meiseter, Commun ity Foundation of North
l,;o,i,,l-.......,...:..;...,_..,1 Texas , 306 W. 7th St., Suite 702 , Fort
Worth TX 76102 . Those she taught will carry on her
teaching and philosophy of life by helping others .
Sonja "Corky" Carlson
By Drew "Bingo" Locking, Secretary
Thunder Bay Clown Club, Thunder Alley #200
Sonja "Gorky" Carlson, 51, of Thunder Bay, Ontario,
made her last walkaround May 6, 2000.
Sonja touched the lives of many through her work with
her church , Toastmasters , the Bereaved Families support
group and the Thunde r Bay Clown Club.
As the mother of four and grandmother of
three, Sonja (and her family) still found the
time and love to be a foster family to a
Native Canadian family.
Sonja began her clowning career in 1992.
Her metier was caring clowning, and she
instructed in local clown workshops and
volunteered in the local school systems.
A clown 's clown , Sonja clowned right up to her worldly
end, hosting a party for family and friends in the day room of
St. Joseph 's Hospice , where she was shortly to spend her
last days. To perpetuate Sonja's name and work in the
clown world , the Norrthwesten Ontario Clown Scholarship
Fund has been renamed in her honor to become the Sonja
Carlson Memorial Clown Scholarship .
She is survived by her husband and soul mate of 33
years and fellow clown Victor "Igor," a son, two daughters ,
grandchildren , siblings and numerous friends . She will be
sorely missed by all, but leaves miles of smiles with those
whose lives she touched.
Audrey Lou "Cracker Jack" Elliott
Audrey Lou "Cracker Jack" Elliott, 48, of Dellsboro, IN,
made her last walkaround Nov. 30, 1999. She was born in
Batesville, IN.Recalled her husband Ron, "I was always
amazed by her ability to do the clowning ." She will be
missed .
30 The New Calliope

July/August. 2000
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The New Calliope 31

July/August , 2000
Co l\'tl\'to n
Sense
By Karen "Peppermint"Reinholt
P.O. Box 13187
Portland, OR 97213
email Pepprmnttcl@aol.com
Practicing and rehearsing is essential to quality
entertainment for birthday parties as well as any type of
performing (i.e., school shows, library shows, stage
performances, etc.) . As with any show , you usually start with
a basic scenario of what you want to do and then carefully
build around it using your magic, music , puppetry , etc., to
complete it. You then practice, fine-tune it, final rehearsal
and then you 're ready to perform in front of a live audience .
But, performing in front of a live audience is not the same as
rehearsing in front of a mirror or video camera . As in the Art
Linkletter show and the more recent Bill Cosby show , kids
will say and do the funniest , unexpected things . And there
are many extenuating circumstances that can also play a
part in how the party progresses. All the rehearsing in the
world won't always prepare you in how to respond to each
and every one of these situations. This is where common
sense and experience takes over.
Let's look at some different situations that come up and
ideas on simple, common sense solutions. Take for
instance the summer birthday party being held outdoors.
Most parents don't think to take the sun's position into
consideration when planning their child 's party. Many times I
arrive to find the children facing into the sun in order to see
me. They're squinting, shading their eyes and finally
looking away because he bright sun hurts their eyes.
Common sense tells me to walk around the group so I'm
now on the opposite side. Now they 're looking away from
the sun and can comfortably watch the show . Even though I
am facing the sun, I am looking down at the children rather
than up into the sun.
If we were to look at changing this slightly by
incorporating what we 've learned through experience , we
can eliminate this happening entirely. When I am party
planning and the parent tells me that the party is going to be
held outside, I ask them to please lay some blankets or
quilts on the deck or lawn for the children to sit on (which is
more comfortable for them and also provides an "audience
area"). In addition , I ask them to situate the blankets so that
the children will not be looking into the sun whi le I perform.
This eliminates the problem from even coming up.
Peppermint and friend
New birthday party clowns don 't always feel they have
the right to change things once they get to the party . Even
though their common sense tells them they should change
things to make them better , they might not have the
confidence or feel comfortable enough to make the
changes . This is where "experience " helps out.
Let's try another scenario: You arrive at the party and
the parent has placed chips or other munchies on a side
table for the children. Throughout your show, there are
several who continuously get up and down to get more
chips. This can be very disruptive to how smoothly your
show flows. Common sense tells you that the chips
shouldn't be there . What should you do? There are several
choices here . If the children are seated on blankets , you
can call in the parent and ask if it's okay to put the snacks in
the middle of the blankets to be within easy reach to
eliminate them getting up and down. If they 're sitting on the
carpet or furniture, you might ask to have the chips put away
temporarily until after the show .
You can also deal with this ahead of time by asking the
parent if snacks will be available for the children during the
party. If the answer is yes, that's when you can suggest
finger food be placed in a bowl in the middle of the blankets
the chldren are sitting on so there are minimal distractions to
your show.
Another problem is when parents start to loudly
socialize in the background . As they get louder , your show
has to get louder so the children can hear you. Soon, the
noise is almost deafening. Common sense tells you that the
parents need to quiet down and be considerate of the
children trying to listen to your show. When this happens , I
32 The New Calliope

July/August 2000
will get their attention by clearing my voice and loudly and
deliberately announcing , "Ladies and Gentlemen . may I
have your attention please?!" Once I have their attention, I
will point out (nicely) that the children are having trouble
hearing the show. This is usually sufficient. However, if it
continues unabated , it is okay to have the children turn
around and, on the count of three , say "Sh-h-h-h-h! " to the
parents. This generally gets a laugh from the adults and
cooperation for the remainder of the show.
This is another issue that can be addressed while party
planning . I know some entertainers who , in their
confirmatio n letter to the parents , request the parents'
cooperation in keeping their socializing volume way down
to avoid any disruption of the show. This can also be related
to the parent at the time you are party planning on the
phone.
Parties that take place at a fast food establishment have
lots of disruptions and you must learn to go with the flow
(The New Calliope, Sept/Oct. 1997). When you are in the
middle of your show and the waitress comes over to take
everyone's food order and/or serve their food , common
sense tells you this is not the right time for them to be doing
this . Rather than compete with the waitress for the
children 's attention , it is better to join in by helping her take
the orders and/or handing out each person's meal. This can
be done with a lot of fun and playfulness. It also gets it done
quickly so you can get back to your performance. However ,
experience teaches you that this type of disruption can be
eliminated completely by party planning correctly. Once you
find out the party is going to be at a restaurant , ask the
parents to have the food orders placed before you arrive.
And I always ask that the food be served at the time I am
making the balloon animals. It is fairly easy to give them the
time frame (i.e., the party starts at 11 a.m. I will arrive at
11: 15, so that gives the parent enough time to get
everyone's order and place it. I will be through with the main
part of my show by 11 :50 and ready to make balloons. This
is the best time to serve the food so it won't be disruptive.)
During the summer months. a lot of parties are planned
to be held outside. This is fine until the tem perature rises in
the the 90's and 1 00's. So many homes now have air
conditioning that it doesn't make sense for everyone to
suffer in the heat, especially in our costumes and wigs. It is
perfectly okay for this topic to be discussed when you are
party planning and/or even the morning of the party. Ask if
having the party inside is an option. Not only because it will
be more comfortable for the entertainer, but also the
children will be cooler and the balloons won't break as
easily, etc. As a new birthday party entertainer, you might
be reluctant to ask about these options. However , once
you have experienced a paI1y in the sweltering heat where
everyone is hot and miserable and the balloons break
almost immediately, you will resolve to party plan differently
for parties on the next hot day.
P1natas are a popular activity at parties Yet. most
parents seem oblivious to how easily a child can get hurt if
they run too quickly to collect the candy while the baton is
still being swung around . You begin to question where the
parents' common sense is. When I find out. while party
planning, that they 're having a pinata, i make the
suggestion to have the children sitting in a circle while the
baton is being swung around . This eliminates the children
running into the inner circle to catch the first pieces of
candy. Also, there are always the more aggressive ones
who get most of the candy. To eliminate this happening , I
also suggest that the parent place equal amounts of candy
in small ziplocked bags (one for each child). There can also
be loose candy in the pinata to be more visually effective
when the pinata is broken . However , with the individual
bags, there is an assurance that each child gets the same
amount. Parents absolutely love ideas and suggestions like
this . They usually respond by saying how much "sense" it
makes to do it this way.
Another frequent occurrence at parties (as well as other
events) is a parent who comes up to you and asks about
your availability and prices to do their child's next party. Most
parents will simply ask for a business card (don't leave home
without them!) , but others will begin to ask detailed
questions.There you are, surrounded by adoring children
and this adult wants you to start discussing money.
Common sense tells you this isn't the time or the place. But
how do you relay that to the possible future customer
without hurting their feelings? I hand them a business card
with a big smile and explain that I offer different options, so
the best thing they can do is call me so we can discuss their
choices. Then I thank them and turn back to the children . It
works every time.
Common sense is something we all have, to make
choices on how we respond to situations. Experience lets
us give ourselves permission to follow through with our
common sense ideas. The more comfortable we are with
our ability to perform, the easier the solutions come to us on
how to handle any problems. Learn to listen to your
common sense and then act on it, combining it with your
experience and knowledge learned through practice ,
performing and educational classes .
And remember to always have fun with your clowning!
Just a note: In the last article about Multiple Parties (The
New Calliope, May/June 2000), the sample agenda "cheat
sheet" didn't come though clearly . Anyone wanting me to
send them the actual sample, please email me and I will be
glad to send you one. Also, my email address was listed
incorrectly, so if you had trouble writing to me, please try
again. Thanks!
Pepprmnttc@ao l.com
The New Calliope 33

i,r~i~~;~~-i.-,;;;;;;;.;.-- r_: -:, -•-""
- lllil _"_ .-----------------
father figure to
Mickey . One of
Mickey's prized
possessions is a
breakaway bike
Mark used in his act.
Roots
By Linda Hulet
COAi Southwest Region VP
P.O. Box 789
Anaheim, CA 92815
Lately I have been contemplating my roots. Not just
family roots, but clowning roots. This maybe due to my
recent travels to oriental communities and seeing the deep
respect these peop le have for their aged family members .
In the clowning community, we also have "family," people
who have given us a great heritage and legacy to our art.
For years these wonderful people have worked hard and
paid their dues. They may not have been as world famous
as Lou Jacobs or Emmett Kelly, but the most tragic thing we
could do would be to let their stories go untold.
One such character whom I have had the fortune to
meet and work with is Mickey the Clown, aka Michael
McCarthy. Mickey is a weathered veteran of the trade. His
first memory of the circus was a visit to Ringling Brothers in
the 40's on the day before the great fire. After being swept
away by the fantasy of the show, he caught a glimpse of a
couple of clowns kicking back between acts and it captured
his thoughts of excitement, romance and mystery. He
decided right then and there -- THAT was the life for him.
By the time Mickey was 14 he had begun clowning. His
home town of Bridgeport, CN, was also home to Lou
Naggie and Len Keller, two professional clowns who taught
and encouraged him in the very beginning.But his most
profound influence in the early years was the incredible
Mark Anthony. Mark took him under his wing and was a
-.;;~i~I When I asked
1H. Mickey about his
tnfi~:t::~;.,.;.-1 first circus job, he
laughed his big
booming laugh
before he
answered. "I was
with the Clyde
Beatty Circus in the
early 60's," he said.
"There were 22 of
us living in a 50-foot trailer , making $65 per week plus room
and board. I thought, it doesn't get any better than this!"
Over the years his presence has entertained crowds from
Cole Brothers and Royal Hanneford to Ian Garden and
Circus Vargas. While at Circus Vargas he became their
Ambassador of Goodwill and retained that title many years.
How did Mickey get his name? He said he's always used
his own name, as did all of the other clowns in the circus
until he became Circus Vargas' Ambassador of Goodwill:
doing performances on TV and radio. They wanted
something more identifiable. He had been small in stature
as a child and the other kids called him Mickey, so he just
used his childhood nickname.
After his run with Circus Vargas ended , he was
introduced to the fair circuit by puppeteer Ernie Guderjahn ,
and he learned about the difference between working the
circus and working fairs. He'll tell you that circus clowns have
to be FUNNY. Clowns don't have to be skilled at juggling or
riding a unicycle or walking on stilts, but when you just hand
out stickers or blow bubbles, where's the funny if that's all
you do? To be a bit different, Mickey has incorporated
music into his fair routines. He began writing music for his
small daughter years ago and it has grown into a video and
two cassettes, Circus Fantasy and Plant a Tree. He also has
a stage show, Mickey's Place, which was developed for TV
and was shown in Prime Star. When he's not on the fair
circuit he travels in his huge, brightly-painted bus, in which
he lives the year around.
Any advice to his fellow joeys?
"I would tell new clowns that clowning is one of the
most priceless possessions you will ever have," he said. "Be
funny. Be happy. Always be ON if you are in costume; they
can't know if your dog just died."
He speaks fondly of his mentor, Mark Anthony: "Mark
always had a kind word for everyone. I want to do the same ."
34 The New Calliope

July/August, 2000
Clowns of America International
Income, expense and balance statement
as of June 20, 2000
REVENUE
Membership
Alley charters
Magazine ads
Merchandise
Convention
Misc.
Apr.-June
$6,347 .00
100.00
6 ,275 .00
5,441 .64
2,373 .00
8 ,801 .83
Web page
TOTAL REV. $27,358.56
EXPENSES
CC Mech Lease
CC Fee 20.00
New Calliope prod'tion 9,087.83
Editor fee 10,640.00
New Calliope postage 246.54
Computer service 6,608.82
Postage 4 ,354 .27
Printed matter 2,667 .83
Merchandise 8,957 .75
Publicity
Convention 7,561 .23
Education 900.00
Misc.
Fall Board meeting
Officers phone/postage 784. 95
Trophies 2,378.80
Board meeting 6,304.35
Professional services 594.50
National Office 2,620.93
lnnovation/development1, 134. 78
Clown Artist/ Residence2 ,865.90
Web page 225. 00
Insurance
Tax payment (137.35)
TOTALEXP. 61,876.47
BALANCE SHEET
Cany over from
last period
(5.640.78)
Total revenue 27,456.50
Total expenses 61 ,876.47
Money Mkt.Acct. (24,000.00)
Money Mkt Transfer
Petty cash (2,000.00)
NET CASH BAL. (27,758 .56)
HELD IN CDs 132,951.87
Respectfully submitted ,
Tony R. Jones, Treasurer
YEAR'S TOTAL
$7 1,862.71
700.00
27 ,654 .00
7,548 .84
2,373.00
8,833 .83
10.00
$117,008.08
105.98
363 .61
31,647 .14
31,970.00
6,221.06
30,802.63
9,312.17
6,968.00
12,095.17
150.00
9,651.23
1,534 .59
143.20
10,237 .86
1,811.79
2,378.80
6,502.35
4,044.50
5,102.37
1,678.70
4,008 .50
895.00
1,085.00
138.64
171,013.00
(6,349.70)
117,08.08
171,013.00
409.75
2,000.00
132,951.87
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The New Calliope 35

July/August , 2000
Farewell I
LaughMakers
By David "Mr. Rainbow" Bartlett
1427 Acadia St.
Durham, NC 27701
There is a saying I recite so often it is almost a personal
mantra. Be careful what you ask for , you just might get it.
Another way I have heard this expressio n is that when God
wants to punish us, He grants our wishes. When I first
heard the news that LaughMakers was ceasing publication I
--------- was not shocked or even
surprised. I had been suspecting it
for a long time. The announcement
was simply official verification of
something I kr,ew was coming. I
didn't have any inside information , I
just knew.
~..,,.~1111.lil LaughMakers sought to become
the best high quality magazine for
family entertainers. The wish was
granted! Uh-oh! It was so good that
. . each issue was eagerly anticipated
and 1mmed1ately devou red by its readers . Even the
slightest delay in its publicat ion schedule was noticed .
Once you've set an incredibly high standard of
excellence , the pressure becomes not just to continue
production , but to mainta in and exceed expectations.
Incredibly, over a 20-year period, Laugh Makers did just that!
In time, subscribers split into two distinct groups. Old
subscribers were happy to wait for publ ication , knowing it
would be of exceptional quality. New subscribers
desperately wanted each new issue of this wonderful
magazine everyone was raving about, and they wanted it on
time . Who could blame them?
So, the answer is simply, put it out on time , right? Not so
fast!
In my opinion, what made Laugh Makers so exceptional
was the artistic nature and artistic approach of its editor,
Cathy Gibbons. She was not a cut and paste editor . She
was not a publishing technician. Technicians are realists.
Artis~s a~e perfecti?nists . Technicians can regretfully accept
med1ocnty, reasoning that it was the best that could be
done. Artists cannot accept mediocrity and have a hard time
finishing up things because everything can be improved.
Deadlines are not missed by technicians. Artists rebel
against the artificial tyranny of deadlines. Quality is not a
function usually associated with time constra ints.
No, it wasn't fair to
subscribe rs. No, it wasn 't
fair to advertisers with time
sensitive material. The
longer you were with
LaughMakers , the more
you learned to adjust your
time expectation . The
most important thing ,
however, was that you
never had to adjust your
quality expectation .
I formed the opinion years
ago that LaughMakers
should not have even
called itself a periodical. It
should have been a series
made up of independent
publications that come out
whenever they were
finished . Interestingly
. Cat~y Gibbons enough, according to her
final Editors note, that seems to be the direction Cathy is
moving . Keep an eye out for her new books under the
"LaughMakers Kidshow Library" title , and also keep an eye
out for the "International Association of Family
Entertainment Professionals. "
I will miss the magazine LaughMakers. I was proud to be
~ senior columnist for them .Writing articles that were just
nght for Laugh Makers was a painstaking, time consuming
intellectual exercise that always left me drained. In spite of
that, I wish there was something to take its place. Be careful,
what you ask for , you just might get it!
Enter Chris Van Krieken from Toronto , Canada. She
has started a new publication called Funny Paper. It recently
came out with its first issue and it is definitely a LaughMaker
inspired publication and shows great promise. Don't take
my word for it. Check it out for yourself . She put the first
issue on line for everyone to see. Go to
http://www.interlog.com/- chrisvk/
(One final author's note. In my opinion , Cal Olson, editor
of The New Calliope, is an exceptional blend of all the
attributes necessary for a great editor of our magazine . I
hope everybody at COAi realizes the high quality work he
does . No kiss up, just fact. DFB.)
COAi
Simply the best
36 The New Calliope

Sou1:h Eas1: Clown Associations
19th Annual Convention
July/August, 2000
Hosted by~ The Panama City Clown Alley
Featuring these *OUTSTANDING*
Lecturers & Dealers:
·Harry Allen ·Jack "Freckles" Anderson
·Trish "Pricilla Mooseburger" Bothun
•Jackie"Lollibells" Garner ·Jim "Rusty" Gorgans
·Bob & Teresa Gretton ·Steve Kissell • Sue Kleinwachter
·Charles"Albert" Lavender •Dean"Crunchy-T" Martin
·Lee "Juggles" Mullally ·Marcella"Mama Clown" Murad
·Rex Nolan ·Wayne& Marty Scott ·J.T."Bubba" Sikes
·Cheri "Cherri-Oats" Venturi •Todd"Little John" Watson
• Ron "BooBoo" Yarborough
•Costumes by Betty with Tony "Junior" Jones
·Photographic Memories (Big Nose Productions)
·Daytona Magic ·Billy Prince Shoes
·Stan "Stromboli" Stromsky ·Artist~ Dian Marshall
gr:a: ... ma:imi Hotel Information & Reservations ... ma:i ... lllll
The Boardwalk Beach Resort & Convention Center
9450 South Thomas Dr., Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Phone: 1(800)224-4853 or (850)230-4608
PLEASE Mention SECA Convention
ATTENTION: Effective June 20:
Our room block for special rates at the Sheraton is FULL!
Reservations can now be made at the Sheraton for $84/night;
or $59/night at the Gultwalk or Beach Walk
*Reservation DEADLINE is August 6, 2000!*
''O Kee U A 1· "
pcm lltle •••
* The Saturday night Costume Banquet has a Storybook
Theme. so why not dress up and come as you r favori te
Storybook character!
* Full Registration includes 3 meals ... Lunch Thursday.
Saturday night Banquet, Sunday Farewell Breakfast.
plus Wednesday night Welcome Recepti on!
* Experience great educational classes. competitions
and best of all - the special fellows hip of clowns!
Registration begins at 1 :00 pm
on Wednesday, Sept. 6th, 2000
-------------------------------------------
2000 SECA Convention Registration & Membership Form
~ Make checks payable to SECA and mail to: Ronnie Cross, Treasurer; 1305 Castalia Drive, Cary, NC 27513 ~
For additional convention information , contact: Pam Miles (706) 860-2247 or Mary Bennett (352) 338-2824
Name _______ __ _ __ _ _ _ __ Clown Name ___ __ _ ___ _ _____ _
Address City, State __________ Zip ___ _ _
Phone Is this your first SECA Convention? YES__ NO __
SECA Member Non-SECA S.E.C.A.
Registration Registration Membership Number TOTAL
Early Registration (before July 15th) $75 $100 X -- $
Registration from July 16th - August 25th $85 $110 X -- $
Individual Membership (prorate per month for new members only) $12 X -- $
Family Membership ($6 each additional member) $6 X -- $
TOTAL $
~ AFTER AUGUST 25th, 2000, Registration is $100 00 (SECA Member) or $125 00 (Non-SECA Member) ~
AND MUST BE MADE AT THE DOOR. A Day Rate of $40 is available. (Meals are not included in Day Rate)
The New Calliope 37

July/August , 2000
Winners all: Members of Caloosa
Alley #97, recipients of COAi's
1999 CHARLIE Award.
Going
after
CHARLIE
By Kent "Ka-Yo" Sheets
4375 St. Clair Ave. W.
N. Ft. Myers, FL 33903
On Saturday, April 15, my phone rang. On the other
end of the line, Sally Scan lon, president of Caloosa Clown
Alley #97, was yelling , "We won! We Won!" She was so
excited she said she could not believe the phone message
she had received from Bob Gretton , COAi's International
Clown Week Chair:
Catoosa Clown Alley #97 had won COAi's
1999 CHARLIE Award for alley Clown Week
activities.
Why was Sally so excited and surprised? Because the
Caloosa Clown Alley is just a tiny alley with a few members.
We hear about larger alleys that have 50, 100 or more
members with all kinds of activities and events . We have
several members who have moved to Florida from other
areas who were active with larger alleys. We can tell they
miss those activities, lectures and events from their past
alleys.
Although Alley #97 has been around for many years,
most of the original members have retired from clowning.
We are in transition and rebuilding our alley. I would guess
the average member has only been clowning for four or five
years , some less. A lot of the members who were with the
alley six years ago when I started clowning and joined the
alley are no long active with the alley.
Another reason all of us were so surprised is that we
almost did not apply for the award . As with everything, after
Clown Week 1999, we continued with our lives, work,
family, church, clowning, conventions, etc. Sally was going
to put our notebook together, but being a working mother ,
she just put it off.
At our alley meeting about a week before COAi's 2000
convention in San Francisco , someone asked if everything
was ready to submit for the award. We had an outstanding
Clown Week. We had more activities than any of us thought
we could do. Almost everyone participated.
We entertained everyone from 2 to 92 all over town.
We did everything but dance. We did balloons, magic tricks ,
skits, face painting , tattoos , walkarounds, nursing home
visits, hospital visits , blood drives , book stores , grand
opening , museum , commissioner meetings, radio
programs , church services and I think a couple members
even sang.
Sally had thank you letters, proclamations, newspaper
articles , lots of pictures , and even some video tapes of the
county commissioners' proclamation presentation and
television coverage . But no time to put it all together. Sally
called Bob Gretton after the alley meeting to ask when the
material had to be subm itted , and he said the deadline was
noon April 12 at the convention. Plan B went into action.
Continued page
38 The New Calliope

July/August , 2000
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Let 'em know
you belong
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Four colors: Navy, Ash, Forest
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The New Calliope 39

July/August , 2000
CHARLIE --
From page
Plan B was to scan all the pictures, letters , decorat ions,
newspaper articles, and any other documentation that we
had collected of the week's activity . Then with the help of
July's alley newsletter, listing our Clown Week activities, we
identified each activity with pictures . For the computer
users out there , then everything was placed into Corel
Presentation (Similar to Microsoft Power Point). With the
presentation computer software, music , display time,
fading , documentation , and pictures were coordinated into
our final presentation.
What was really nice is after the presentation was
complete, the computer program allows you to print each
presentation slide to the printer. A three-hole punch and a
three-ring binder, and the notebook is complete. Now if we
had the correct equipment , we could have just transferred
the computer presentation from the computer to a VCR
tape . No such luck. One of the members suggested that
the presentation could be recorded with a VCR camera right
off the computer monitor. It's not the best quality, but it
works. A nice cover for the VCR tape and we were done in
less than a week. On Monday, April 11, Sally overnighted
the notebook and VHS tape to Bob Gretton . and the rest is
history .
The lesson to this story is, make sure you document
your Clown Week activities and send them in. I'm sure there
are many COAi alleys celebrating International Clown Week.
I wonder how many alleys are not documenting their
activities and submitting them.
For her organization, enthusiasm, volunteering,
enthusiasm , commitment to clowning, and enthusiasm ,
Sally received a plaque from her alley for being their Clown
of the Year for 1999. Every time an activity was suggested
for Clown Week, Sally would say, "I'm going, who will join
me?'' That's why the Caloosa Clown Alley received the
C.O.A.I. 1999 CHARLIE. Award. Thanks Sally!
Since this issue of The New Calliope should be in GOA/'
members' hands just about during International Clown
Week 2000 (Aug. 1-7). Here's how-to advice from the
week's chair, Bob Gretton.
Now that you or your alley has had the fun of celebrating
International Clown Week, let's find out what it takes to
compete for the CHARLIE Award. There are two awards,
the Alley and the Individual, given to alley and individua l
who best document their celebration of the week.
Here are the rules: A competing alley must be in good
standing and have 100 percent COAi membership.
Individual must also be a COAi member in good standing.
You will want to put together a scrapbook. In this book you
will have any documentation about your clown activities:
news stories, thank you notes , proclamations, and pictures.
An alley should have pictures showing members who
participated and days during the week that events as well as
types of activities took place.
Scrapbook must be submitted to the Clown
Week Chair by Oct . 1, 2000: Bob Gretton, PO
Box 787, Waldorf , MD 20604.
NOTE THE
DEADLINE: OCT. 1, 2000.
Winning alley and individual will be announced at the
Saturday evening awards ceremony at the 2001
International Convention to be held next April in Ft. Worth ,
TX. Alley's name will be engraved on the trophy. Individual's
name will go on a separate plaque. The trophy and plaque
must be returned in time for the following year's
convention ; substitute plaques will be given for permanent
possession .
Goodbye, ol' ft•ientl
If you haven't paid your COAi dues, this
is the last time you'll be reading
THE NEW CALLIOPE
Don~t let it happen!
Get that dues payment in the mail today,
and continue receiving, not only The New
Calliope, but all the perks and pleasures
of COAi, the best thing that ever happened
to ·clowning!
Check that WEB~
Take another look at COAi's Web site. It's
been re-designed to serve as Internet's
Number One clown site, the place to go
to find out what clowning's all about.
•
www.coa1.org
Here's where you'll find all you need to
know about clowning in general and
COAi in particular: COAi membership
directory, previews of The New Calliope,
clown history, background, and much,
much more. You'll love it!
40 The New Calliope

July/August, 2000
Adult Registration includes: all workshops, competitions, banquet and
much much more!
Registration Postmarked by September 1, 2000 ...... S90
Registration Postmarked after September 1, 2000 .... $110
Registration Junior )oeys 12-19 years old ...... $55 (spec. program)
Cancellation Policy: 90% refunded before 9/1/2000, No refunds after 9 / 15/200
Extra Banquet/Show tickets ... , , $30
[ ) Junior Joey [ ] Adult [ ] Will you compete? [ ] # of Conventions
Name:
OownName:
Phone No. COAi : :
Address
City I State IZIP
All That Glitters Is Not Gold, Excellence In Clowning!
OCTOBER 5 - 8, 2000
Featuring:
"Half-Pint"
& "Oscar"
(Lori and Mark Hurley)
+Plus • More than~ other Fabulious Presenters
• .22 Workshops from Beginning Makeup to Hospital Clowning
.. NEW- Jr Joey Program "Red Nose Festival Competitions
•costume&. Makeup Critiquing •croup /lnctividual Photos
'Open Mic
'Sltills Sharing (share and perform for the Public)
• Fanta stic Banquet and Show
"Fantastic l'-aetworl-.ing'
•saltoon, Juggling and Face Painting Jams!
Location:
Cavanaughs by the Lake
2300 E\'ergreen Paci-. Drive s1,·, Olym pia Washington 96502
SS5 per ruGht (1 •4 gues ts per room)
1-800-325-4000 or 360-943-4000
Banquet choice: [ )Beef I ]a,ick.en I I Vegetarian
Special Needs:
[ I Hearing lmpaired--Front seating [ ] , or Interpreter Ne

July/August. 2000
Smiling
through
By Don "Ski" Berkoski, COAi Past President
PO Box 34272
Indianapolis, IN 46234
In August of 1997 I heard those dreaded three little
words that no one wants to hear: "You have cancer." My
diagnosis was state D prostate cancer that had
metastasized my spine, ribs and pelvis. Hormone
treatments were begun immediately and were effective for
about eight months . Because of the severe pain, I
underwent external beam radiation. That worked in one
area of my spine , but the pain was flaring up in other places.
We then were encouraged by a new chemotherapy
treatment combined with prednisone
which had been known to work for others .
I had heard of the awful experiences
and terrible side effects of chemo, but
until I was there I could not really know how
bad it could be. During my first chemo
treatment I looked around at the room full
of people in their recliners with their IV's
and their care givers and noticed how sad
and serious the whole situation was . The
next time I arrived for my treatment I was
loaded down with red clown noses.
Before long, everyone in the room,
patients, care givers and nurses, had on
clown noses and were laughing and
talking and enjoying a few of my jokes.
After only three chemotherapy
treatments, it was found not to be working.
It had done its number on me in the
meantime, with hair loss, messed up
appetite, months of vomiting and overall
weakness. At that point we decided to try a radioactive
injection which was to go directly to the bones and relieve
the pain. That didn't work either, but I found an occasion to
make people laugh. As I was about to leave after the
injection, two nurses arrived with Geiger counters to make
sure the stuff that had just been injected into my body had
not gotten on anything else -- including the doctor 's $200
shoes!
42 The New Calliope
By this time I was wheelchair bound and underwent
another series of external beam radiation. Every day for 14
days, my wife, Ruby, had to wheel me into and around the
hospital. I never could handle her driving me in the car and
now I was at her mercy in a chair. Several times we were
either wedged inside the elevator or stuck behind an
automatic door that opened into us, or we were trying to
maneuver around some poor soul who was in the way. I
tried to find the wheelchair police many times to no avail,
and eventually gave up.
Staying positive and keeping my sense of humor have
been very important during this trying time. Presenting
humorous talks and training clowns to volunteer in hospitals
and nursing homes to bring the gift of laughter and love to
lonely and hurting people have helped me survive the
rough spots. I founded Smiles Unlimited Universal Clown
Ministry 17 years ago and have trained over 5,000 people
to become clowns to visit in nursing homes, hospitals,
prisons and handicap facilities. As clowns, we bring the gift
of love and joy to some very lonely people. Using this great
gift of humor , my 18 years as a clown has been one of the
greatest highlights of my life. Working with and sharing the
experiences of other Smiles Unlimited clowns is a treasure I
hold close to my heart.
-""'!'"""!-'---------. On June 4, National Cancer Survivors Day, I
presented my "Red Nose Philosophy " to
over 200 cancer survivors at Provina
Samaritan Hospital in Danville, IL. Everyone
sported a red clown nose and hopefully
forgot for a while the down side of this
illness .
Sometimes it is really hard to get through
the day, but we try really hard each day to
find something to laugh about. Humor is so
very important at this time in our lives. Ruby
and I were blessed to be able to spend
Christmas 1999 in Orlando with five of
our seven children and three grandchildren.
It had been a while since I had found any
new humorous material to share with
people. After Christmas Mass, I found a
story in the church bulletin which was just
what I had been looking for. I began by
sharing it that day with the family, setting a
happy tone for the day. Since then I have
shared it with many groups, including
ending our Man to Man prostate cancer support group
meeting with it. I am including it here with the hope that you
will share it with as many people as possible as often as you
can:
Three sons left home, went out on their own and
prospered. Getting back together, they discussed the gifts
they were able to give their elderly mother .
Continued page 44

July/August , 2000
KAPO' 'S GANG Proudl)' Presents The
Mid-Atlantic Clown Association's! 7th Annual Convention
Wyndham Hotel.. RT.73, (Es:lt 4 of NJ Tumplke) Mt. Laurel, New Jeney
NOVEMBER 8 - 12, .2000
FEATURING •.,Leon Buttons Mc Bride, Mama Clown, Pridlla Mooseburaer, Cberri Qaa,
Rex Nolan, David Rlllt Job.a Speal"!I, Bob Little, bd a lot more
Work llll day• Lt!cturN • WorkAlllop• • Coms,.thioDI • Dulert
Party ,JI nigJ,t • Mardi Gras Welcome Party • Bob11 Clown Picnic• ltaliaD Nipt Fatn-al
Saturd1y Niglt Award, Banquet "A Celebration ofKapo ..
Featurin& E•terulnment by Ko.i & Compatty
For room resen,atiou utt the Wyndham Hotel(~) 234-7000
Mention the MACA C()n"entlo• for ,~ial room rate• S69,00 per nlatit {Room rate 100d till JO/Ol/00}
(Includes ful brtakfut buffet for 2 people per ""m eaclt day)
Reptratioo
Fees: 510011tttil
8/31/00 •.• Sl lS 8/31/00 tllrouglt JO/Jl/00 ... Sll! after 1001/00
~fw ~I~ l""Y"" WMl,u1thy ~. rlilu,,r"""" OIi 'JltJU•t/1,1 ai 1'ritJ.y lflBAl.t .,_ SMJll'tJto, /\~ .4-.6 8-of­
Ddy E~ Ftt DI. 11,,,n,lay .I FrltltlJ, Di_,.. JH...d, S"""""1 &llf'ld jjd
For registration form or have que•tions. .. Call Sandi at (856) 866-2493 or E11t1U: dgtthp:11ll!ffi@hnrmajl com
All arc w&kn- to aaea•, llllwner, ,ou-1 iw 1111 MACA -be• ADIi !av,:
p,dd M reptra.llea • _,...,
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The New Calliope 43

July/August , 2000
Berkoski
From page 42
The first said, "I built a big house for our mother. "
The second said, "I sent her a Mercedes with a driver ."
The third son smiled and said , "I've got you both
beat. You remember how Mom enjoyed reading the Bible?
And you know that she cannot see very well, so I sent her a
remarkable parrot that recites the entire Bible. It took the
elders of the church 12 years to teach him. He's one of a
kind! Mama just has to name the chapter and verse and the
parrot recites it."
Soon thereafter, Mom sent out her letters of thanks .
"Milto n," she wrote to one son, "The house you built is
so huge. I live in only one room , but I have to clean the
whole house .
"Gerald ," she wrote to her second son, "I am too old to
travel. I stay home most of the time, so I rarely use the
Mercedes - and the driver is very rude!
"Dearest Donald," she wrote to her youngest son , "You
Do you AV.
. 4(
need more''\;;,,
t>.,.
fUn?
The worlds first front-wheel-driv
bouncing scooter.
It's perfect for parades,
parties, grand openings or
just clowning around.
If~
tun!
888-Go-Bounce ,Ii: :'.:':.-··
have the good sense to know what your mother likes. The
chicken was delicious! "
Ski can be reached at (317) 299-2816. email
skiclown@ao/.com
Business Manager's report
By Shirley Long
COAi Business Manager
I would like to thank all of the COAi members who have
helped make my transition as new COAi Business Manager
a pleasant one. It is a pleasure to get to speak with you and
to help with any concerns you might have.
Dues renewal notices have been mailed out and you
should have received them by the time you receive this
issue of The New Calliope. You will notice a change in
format and color of the renewal postcard due to the printing
of the change of address required for the new office .
One of the many calls I receive is a question regarding
the amount due for prorated dues. Here is a breakdown of
prorated dues by renewal amounts. Since our billing cycle
runs from July to July, we try to prorate amounts to have
them all fall due in July of each year.
Expires/Due date
May2000
June2000
July2000
August2000
September 2000
October 2000
November 2000
December 2000 ·
January 2001
February 2001
March 2001
April 2001
May2001
June 2001
Amount due
$23.34 US $11.67FAM $29.17FGN
$21.67 US $10.84 FAM $27.10 FGN
$20.00 US $10.00 FAM $25.00 FGN
$18.34 US $9.17 FAM $22.91 FGN
$16.67 US $8.34 FAM $20.83 FGN
$15.00 US $7.50 FAM $18.75 FGN
$13.34 US $6.67 FAM $16.66FGN
$11.67 US $5.84 FAM $14.58 FGN
$10.00 US $5.00 FAM $12.50 FGN
$8.34 US $4.17 FAM $10.42 FGN
$6.67 US $3.34 FAM $8.33 FGN
$5.00 US $2.50 FAM $6.25 FGN
$3.34 US $1.67 FAM $4.17 FGN
$1.67 US $.84 FAM $2.10 FGN
Next due date
July 2001
July 2001
July 2001
July 2001
July 2001
July 2001
July 2001
July 2001
July 2001
July2001
July 2001
July 2001
July 2001
July 2001
I would like to invite members to contact me with any
comments or concerns . I can be reached at 1 (888) 52-
CLOWN or (724) 632-3214 or email coaibmgr@hhs.net
Be a kid again!
+ Give yourself a gold star for everything you do today .
+ Grow a milk mustache.
+ Read the funnies -- throw the rest of the paper away.
+ Dunk your cookies .
+ Order with eyes that are bigger than your stomac h.
+ Step carefully over sidewalk cracks .
+ Try to get someone to trade you a better sandwich .
+Eat ice cream for breakfast.
+ Blow the wrapper off a straw.
+ Refuse to eat crusts.
+ Have someone read you a story.
+ Eat dessert first.
(From the Texas Clown Association's Joey Journal.)
44 The New Calliope

July/August , 2000
Storyline magic
By Steven Bender
Alia Mr. Pickle of lckle Pickle Products
India has come up with an inexpensive winner. The trick
is called THE RIGHT SPOT . The effect as it's sent has four
cards, each with a different colored circle on it. There is also
a Jumbo Card with your prediction. The spectator takes all
four cards and mixes them up, face down. He places each
card into a see-through holder , face down . You now pull out
your prediction and if you wish you can show it to your
audience . It will be either the red circle or the blue circle ,
since you have a choice of either. And since if you choose
to repeat the effect, you will predict a different color the
second time. The spectator now chooses any number , one
through four . There are numbers on the see-through
holders. He is free to choose any number. There is no
force . The card is pulled from the number he FREELY
selects and the circle on his card matches the circle on your
prediction card.
There's nothing wrong with the effect as it comes.
However, it doesn't quite have a Storyline. So what did little
old me do? So glad you cared enough to ask. I went out and
bought two different sets of mylar stickers. One was a set of
Disney characters: Minnie, Pluto, Donald and Mickey
(holding a Happy Birthday sign). I also bought a big Happy
Birthday sticker for my prediction. I stuck a different sticker
on each colored circle. I can now hand the birthday child the
four Disney cards and have them mix them up.
"If it's really your birthday, magically you will inevitably
select the Mickey -- Happy
Birthday card. And since I was invited to entertain at your
birthday, I'm certain it's your birthday, so I've made a
prediction that whatever number you choose, it will be the
Mickey-Happy Birthday card. If I'm wrong , then it must not
be your birthday, and everybody will be free to take back
their present and we'll all leave together. Not that I want to
put any pressure on you, but tell me what number between
one and four you'd like to choose.": He selects. He pulls
out his card. He shows it to everyone. And, of course, it's
the Mickey card.
But what if I want to use this effect and it's not a birthday
party? Well, I could put any sticker I might want to give away
as my prediction. Such as: I Hugged a Clown Today , I Met a
Clown Today, Everybody Needs a Clown sticker. Or if it's a
Sunday School lesson: God Loves the Clown in Me, or
Jesus Loves You.
But none of those were the stickers I bought for my
second set. I bought Crayon Stickers for set number 2. I
prepared another set of cards so that if I use Confusing
Crayons and I place the red crayon under its cylinder, it can
serve as my prediction . I can then allow my spectato r to mix
the cards and place them in their see-through holder. I can
tell him, "If you mix the card with the crayon that matches my
prediction crayon . then I will let you choose whethe r you
wish to use the magic Prediction Crayon or if you prefer me
to use the Magic Crayon ." It adds another dimension to
Confusing Crayons . It also adds another few minutes to the
effect. How often have I said that I love it when I can
combine one item with another and build a Storyline
routine? Hopefully , often enough!
I've merely made a few suggestions. Any stickers that
blend in with whatever you may be doing can be used . The
Right Spot could serve as the lead in to your story or it could
be worked into the middle of a routine. Do I like it? Yes, I like
it very much.
Calendar
Aug. 6-11 and Aug.13-18: Mooseburger Camp ,
Koinonia Retreat Center. South Haven , MN. Info: (800)
973-6277 , or write PO Box 700, Maple Lake , MN 55358.
Aug. 12-17: Clown Camp : Traditional Week
(Medicine Hat).
Sept. 6-13: Clown Convention Alaska Cruise Info.:
(847) 891-8820.
Sept. 8-10: 2000 Buckets of Fun , Sheraton Four
Points Hotel, Des Moines, IA. Info.: (515) 265-6626. email:
icfunahead@aol .com
Sept. 14-17: Clownfest 2000,Seaside Heights , NJ.
Info.: clownfest@aol.com.
Sept. 29-Oct. 1: Festival of Clowns , Mesa, AZ. Info.:
Fax (480) 820-4009. email: LindaTaps@home.com Mail
Luv Clowns of Arizona. Linda Evans, 1995 N. Ellis St.,
Chandler , AZ 85224.
Oct. 4-8: 2000 Midwest Clown Roundup, Holiday Inn
Lansing West, Lansing , Ml.
Oct. 5-8: Northwest Festival of Clowns, Olympia , WA.
Info .: (360) 491-3313.
Oct. 5-8: Comedy Classics , Texas Clown Assn.
convention, Radisson Hotel, Houston, TX. Info.: (281) 861-
6776. email: dollytca2000@aol.com.
Oct. 21: Mideast Clown Convention, Silver Spring ,
MD. Info: Bob Gretton : (301) 843-8212. email
gretton@bellatlnatic. net
Nov. 3-5: Impact Intensive, Bayside Christian
Fellowship, Green Bay, WI. Info.: (920) 468-1122 .
Nov . 5-9: W.R.C.A.Convention, Laughlin , NE. Info.:
(714) 897-0749. email: potsyblimpo@earthlink . net
Nov. 8-12: Mid-Atlantic Clown Assn's. 17th annual
convention, Wyndham Hotel, Mt.Laurel , NJ. Info.: (856)
866-2493 . email dottheclown@hotmail.com
The New Calliope 45

July/August. 2000
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46 The New Calliope

July/ August, 2000
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July/August , 2000
ALL IN THE FAMILY: The five Kuklewiczes -- Dad, Mom,
three sons -- clown together in Damascus, MO, as Clown
Feathers . Front (from left), sons Andrew and David, Mom
Susan . Rear, Dad Mark (left), son Robert .
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July /August , 2000
Volume 17, Number 4
48 The New Calliope