CAPITAL REGION, N.Y. -- Sightings of so called “creepy clowns” are being reported across the country and in the Capital Region.
This week police in Amsterdam received reports of clowns chasing children.
A resident of an apartment complex in Clifton Park also claims to have seen someone dressed as a clown.
In many cases, it’s a prank but locals aren’t laughing, especially those who make money wearing makeup and a red nose.
The stairway leading to Marie Beck’s basement is as decorated as her resume in the professional clown community.
“I got what they call the Golden Nose Award,” said Beck, pointing out an award hanging from the wall.
Marie, known to many as "Mischief," has been collecting clown costumes and memorabilia since she first painted on a smile in 1979.
“If you see the creepy clown it is not me,” said Beck, as she painted on makeup.
She’s entertained all over the country, performed at the White House, and volunteers time visiting sick children in the hospital.
“There is a potential of people using clowning for bad purposes and that is exactly what you’re seeing,” said Beck.
She says the creepy clown trend is damaging to the already dwindling number of professional clowns.
“It is giving a black eye to something that doesn’t deserve it,” said Beck.
When she got into the business in 1979, Marie says there were 80 to 100 clowns in the Capital Region. Today there are fewer than 15.
“Most of them have either died, grown old, moved away, or don’t clown anymore for one reason or another,” said Beck.
She hopes what is likely widespread dark humor doesn’t hurt an already shrinking industry so she and others can continue to brighten spirits.