WHO: Karen Burrell (aka Ozseeker the Clown), 52
WHAT: Entertainer
LIVES: Chippewa Falls
IN THE CITY FOR: 8 years

When did you decide to be a clown? As activity director at the Chippewa Falls Senior Center, I taught a variety of classes. In January 2004, we decided to try eight weeks of clowning and then entertain at local nursing homes. While researching clowning, I discovered a world of professional family entertainment learning opportunities. Attending the Midwest Clown Association convention that October had me hooked. I immediately informed my boss that I would be leaving in May to be a full-time clown.

What would you like to say to those who aspire to be a clown? Could I go to clown school (I ride a unicycle, am I a shoo-in)?  Go for it! You might not aspire to be a professional clown, but you will have a blast learning new things. Did you know that juggling for three months actually increases brain size? Of course, if you don’t continue juggling, the benefits don’t continue either. The Sunbeams, at the Chippewa Falls Senior Center, are looking for more volunteer clowns to join the fun.

What is your favorite thing about being a clown? What’s the worst? The worst thing is when little kids cry. Luckily, it happens rarely. The best thing is when you make a balloon or magic trick with a child or adult standing right next to you and they ask, amazed, “How did you do that?!” I love spreading smiles.

Have you ever had to deal with a rough crowd? The type of entertainment I offer doesn’t draw many rowdy folks. Occasionally, there is a grownup who thinks it’s funny to encourage a child to step on the clown’s ($300) shoes. I’ve gotten pretty good at spotting them and side-stepping them.

How did you choose your name? I have always been a big fan of The Wizard of Oz, so when I took an internet class in California, I had to choose an e-mail address. I chose Ozseeker. Since then, I’ve seen e-mails like Ozseeker02, but I was the original!

How do you create your look? Do you ever change your look or is consistency better? Your look is always evolving and changing. My makeup was designed by a Ringling clown, but I’ve changed it a bit over the years. I try to keep my face and hair consistent whereas my outfits change depending on where I am going and what I will be doing. About three years ago, I decided I wanted pink hair, but I just found out they are discontinuing my color! I don’t know what I’m going to do now!

What are the different acts/talents you perform as a clown? I love performing an interactive clown magic show with lots of audience participation. My balloon creations have earned awards at the World Clown Association conventions. I’m invited to face paint aboard Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines a few times each year. I’ve given up on juggling and the unicycle.

Have you ever made a child cry? Ah yes, in the same way Santa does at the mall. Little tiny kids sometimes just don’t know what to think and they cry. I just back away.

Do you have a favorite spot to perform in Eau Claire? Famous Daves! I’m there every Wednesday.

What type of comedy appeals to your funny bone? Old black and white movies. Cary Grant is hilarious! I love slapstick.

What would you say to those who are frightened of clowns? GROW UP! (rolls eyes)

Do you have any unfulfilled clown dreams? I really want to clown on a cruise ship and in a USO-type venue.

What place in town considers you a “regular”? Not even my husband can truly call me a “regular.” I’m on the move so much. There are about two months of the year (maybe) that I’m home for a full month. You can find me in Wal-Mart a few times each month. When my pockets jingle, you’ll find me at McDonalds – morning, noon, and night!

What frustrates you about the Chippewa Valley? Moving here from California was a blessing. I love Wisconsin. I would like to bring some of the familiar fast food joints here, like Jack in the Box.

What’s your favorite local festival? Northern Wisconsin State Fair in Chippewa Falls. I love seeing the chickens!

What sort of economic development would you like to see in our area? A restroom with indoor plumbing in Phoenix Park.