Although some might consider the prospect frightening, more than 100 clowns from seven states will gather in Davenport this week. Wednesday the Midwest Clown Association will open its 41st annual convention at the Clarion Hotel.
Spokeswoman Angie Gonzalez says for some of their members, clowning is a full-time job, while many others just consider it a hobby or vocation.
The convention will feature continuing education classes, ranging from make-up and costuming, to juggling, balloon sculpture, magic, slapstick comedy, and even how to "clown" in parades.
Gonzalez calls herself a "ministry clown" and goes by the name of "Q.T. Pie."
She admits there are a few people who are scared by clowns, mostly due to some books and movies. And even though it's not really recognized medically, Gonzalez and other clowns call it coulrophobia (coal-ro-fo-bee-uh), and they also teach their members how to handle it.
The Midwest Clown Association Convention continues through Sunday.
(at the Clarion Hotel Conference Center in Dav)