Clowns work to remember Ho Ho, his charities

"Once you get the nose on," she said, "it's all about clowning."

Woodruff and other members of Ho Ho's Central Oklahoma Clown Alley will get together to honor the man who was an inspiration for most of them: Ho Ho.

The Ho Ho the Clown Tribute will raise funds for the clown's favorite charities, like OU The Children's Hospital at OU Medical Center and Special Olympics. The dinner includes entertainment and an auction.

Ho Ho, played by Ed Birchall, performed on KOCO-5 for 29 years. He spent time volunteering for hospitals, nursing homes and charities.

Esther Quintero, of Oklahoma City, said she was inspired to become a clown at Ho Ho's funeral. When she's LaLa Payasita, she said, she's even more outgoing than she already is.

"You are able to be more you — more of what's in you," she said.

Huey Daniels, of Blanchard, said he's normally a shy person, but he becomes an entertainer when he puts on his clown outfit. He especially enjoys entertaining the elderly and the handicapped.

"They appreciate any attention they get," said Daniels, otherwise known as Uncle Hooey.

That spirit of entertainment and community service is the legacy Ho Ho left, said Faynelle Sitts, of Harrah.

"We've all got a kid inside us," said Sitts, whose clown name is Breezy. "We do believe in the healing power of laughter."