Washington Evening Journal
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Send in the clown to WAGG’s March event
From Grandma to clown, Thelma O’Neill gives children a look into the not-so-scary truth behind all that makeup
By Barb Phelps
Mar. 20, 2025 9:42 am, Updated: Mar. 24, 2025 11:19 am
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
WINFIELD — March’s WAGG (Winfield Area Grateful Gathering) event will include a bit of “clowning around” with featured guest Mimi the Clown, also known as Thelma O’Neill. The Event will start at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, at the First Presbyterian Church in Winfield.
Thelma O’Neill filled her retirement fun-time performing as a clown in various community and family events. She attended specific clown training at the Mooseburger Clown Arts Education camp for 10 summers following her retirement as a school psychologist.
She currently goes to several local libraries as a Red Nose Reader where attendees have an opportunity to learn and have a good time throughout the 30—40-minute event. The audience varies from preschool children to adults. The content of these events is designed for little ones to learn that clowns are safe, if there is parent approval. An age-appropriate book will be included in the program as well as other surprises.
When the audience first meets Thelma, she is a “grandma” like any others. She gradually becomes a clown who encourages literacy and kindness. Children can learn that clowns are simply people who like to have fun while wearing silly clothes and makeup. There is no need to be afraid of clowns who parents have approved of.
Join us for a time of community gathering and fun, with a chuckle or two thrown in on the side. There also will be a time of fellowship and refreshments following the event. A freewill offering will be accepted to help fund future WAGG Events.