Clowns at the Capitol

Bob CollinsBob Collins Apr 5, 2012
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Some posts are too easy for the cheap shots, so we’ll just pass along without comment that Sen. Amy Koch filed a resolution in the Minnesota Senate today recognizing International Clown Week, which begins in late July.

A Senate resolution honoring Tricia Manuel and recognizing International Clown Week.

WHEREAS, since 1996, Tricia Manuel has directed and operated the Mooseburger Clown Arts Camp, which provides training every year in all aspects of the clown’s art to people from all over the country and the world; and

WHEREAS, the camp is one of the oldest and most comprehensive programs of its kind; and

WHEREAS, in 2012, the camp’s schedule will coincide with International Clown Week, an event first celebrated in the 1950s and first proclaimed in 1971; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the State of Minnesota that it extends thanks and congratulations to Tricia Manuel for providing training to so many clowns who will be ambassadors of goodwill to people of all ages.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is directed to prepare an nrolled copy of this resolution, to be authenticated by the Secretary’s signature and that of the Chair of the Senate Rules and Administration Committee, and transmit it to Tricia Manuel.

I’ve never had the problem with clowns that a lot of people seem to have, so I’m now stuck with the idea of going to a clown camp just to see what it’s like. Who knew there was a clown camp of note in our area?

And who could be afraid of this? Tricia Manuel — I hadn’t heard of her before — is a comic genius!

The Mooseburger Camp website reveals an impressive array of talents that need to be developed to be a clown. These workshops are available, for example:

— What it takes to put comedy magic into your birthday party routines.

— How to use a clown hat

— Nursing home clowning

— Library show know-how

— Hospital clowning

— Posing for pictures

— Clown ministry

But clowning is serious business with obviously rewarding results. Check out this interview with Ms. Manuel about how clowning touched one man’s life.

It’s an activity that clearly is deserving of a Minnesota Senate honor.