Although some costume shops have yanked clown masks and a few police agencies advise against trick-or-treating as a clown, the crew staging Woodward Avenue's holiday procession doesn't blink. Crain's got confirmation from the ringmaster:
The phenomenon will have "zero impact" on The Parade Co.'s plans to host the clown corps in Detroit again this year, President and CEO Tony Michaels said.
"It's a tradition and a major part of the event," he said.
The hundreds of clowns-for-a-day aren't circus or party performers, but rather are business executives, politicians, civic leaders, journalists, charity donors and others who clown around for fund-raising. They've given more than $5 million to the parade's nonprofit organizer since he tradition began in 1983, the business weekly says
"Their colorful costumes and perfectly painted faces bringing smiles and memories to millions," posts The Parade Co., which says the volunteers reflect "the true message of giving back to the community."
These are just some of last November's clown corps volunteers.
