Ask Augusta entertainer Pammie the Clown and she'll tell you that there is a long and proud tradition to her craft. In honor of a visit by the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus for three days beginning Thursday at James Brown Arena, we offer Pammie's five qualities that every good clown must possess:

1 A Clown Heart: If your heart is not in it, people, especially children, will see through you. Have a genuine adoration for children and a strong desire to make people happy. Having a Clown Heart is most important and with it, everything else will fall into place.

2 Ethics: It goes way beyond manners. It's above-average common sense. Every clown should have outstanding morals and follow a code of ethics covering behavior, appearance, safety and judgment. In clowning, there is no place for bad habits or anger.

3 Education: Clowning (done right) requires training and knowledge. There are clown schools, camps, educational conventions and regional workshops all across the U.S.

4 Skill set: Sometimes it is a natural talent. Other skills can be acquired through education and practice, practice, practice. Balloon-twisting, face painting, clown magic, storytelling and stage performance are just a few. The ability to make things funny is the most important.

5 Authenticity: Developing a unique clown character takes time, but it is required for the professional clown. It makes you unique and unforgettable. To a child, a clown is a cartoon character that has come to life. Having a distinct character makes you believable.