MAGIC! - 08
The following was compiled from the magician's message section of
MAGIC!(sm). MAGIC! was an electronic communications system for
magicians. Access was free, except for normal telephone company
charges. New registrants were required to leave a comment with
their name, address, phone number and a brief resume of their magic
background to be considered for membership. The material herein
should be treated as confidentially as other magic information.
Copyright 1990, 1991 by MAGIC!, All rights reserved.
Msg #3507 Dated 18:53:02 12-04-90 -> 3685
From: RANDY LUND
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ON A MORE HAPPIER NOTE...
I would be happy to market it directly as well as shareware. The
instructions, complete with graphics, are complete and been thru the
DTP. It would not take much to put this thing in a binder and box or
similar for store sales. Anyone interested should contact me.
Msg #3509 Dated 20:56:49 12-04-90 -> 3519
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: BOOK AND VIDEO REVIEWS
I'm not sure if this has been mentioned here on line or not but I think
it would be a good idea. It would be nice to have some unbiased
opinions on books and video tapes. What would everyone think if we had
a "Book and Video Review Section" on line. Any of us who have new or
old books or videos we particularly enjoyed or didn't could write up
some comments for others to read which would give us a better idea of
whether we should buy the book or video. We could talk about some of
the effects that can be learned, the level of expertise required, how
clear the illustrations in the books are etc. There are thousands upon
thousands of books on magic and we can't read them all. This way, we
could all benefit from each others time and comments. What do you
think???
Msg #3510 Dated 21:05:55 12-04-90
From: STAN LAKE
To: RICHARD STREET (X)
Re: FINN JON'S ESOTERIC
Thanks Richard. Next week I will go to Hollywood Magic and see which
of those tapes they have in stock. Is the tape by Daryl titled just
that- Daryl? Whatever it is called I'm sure they can find it. I have
never seen him perform but I hear he is pretty incredible. I was in
the front row of the Parlour at the Castle last week when Michael Ammar
was performing and that was an INCREDIBLE treat! I will keep my eyes
open for any of his material also.
Msg #3511 Dated 21:09:54 12-04-90 -> 3520
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: THUMB TIPS
In the kids show that I will be doing, instead of just picking up a
silk for one of the tricks. I have "Sam The Silk Worm" make one. I
take the imaginary Sam from out of my pocket and coax him into spinning
a silk handkerchief which of course I produce from my thumb tip.
Msg #3514 Dated 22:34:25 12-04-90 -> 3515
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
It may sound like a rub off but writing a letter to the board of
directors does get discussed at the board meetings. With Ron, Peter and
Bruce working so much I do believe they would address the problem. Once
it's discussed and a decision is made, It's in the newsletter and
official. One lettwr written means fifty people thought of it. and a
lettEr written even gets 51. oops.
Msg #3515 Dated 22:38:04 12-04-90 -> 3527
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
It could be written in the contract ahead of time. no?
Msg #3519 Dated 23:49:48 12-04-90 3509 <--> 3549
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: BOOK AND VIDEO REVIEWS
I think it is a great idea, Stan! In addition to books and tapes, why
not purchased effects/tricks as well? I would suggest one thing -- the
items reviewed should be currently available. And, of course, everyone
understands that the review is strictly that of the reviewer, not of
MAGIC! or ECANET, and that what one person hates another may love,
or visa versa.
Msg #3520 Dated 23:52:37 12-04-90 3511 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: THUMB TIPS
"Sam the Silk Worm" sounds good, Stan. Will have to see you do it
sometime.
Msg #3521 Dated 23:56:30 12-04-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: READING MESSAGES
Thanks to the articles about MAGIC! that appeared in several
publications, we have a lot of new users. Here is a tip on how to
read messages quickly and easily.
>From the Main Menu:
Type R;* and press That's the letter R followed by a
the ENTER key. semi-colon (;) followed by an
asterisk (*). Then press the
ENTER key. You will immediately
see the first new message after the last message you read the
last time you were on MAGIC! After each message you will be
presented with a menu. You can use this menu to Reply to a
message. If you just want to go on to the next message,
just press the ENTER key. Messages will be presented in
SUBJECT order. That means that you will see all of the messages
that have the same subject, followed by all of the messages on
the next subject, etc.
There are several other ways to read and locate messages on MAGIC!
Since most members tend to use an interactive mode in which they
read and reply to messages we tend to stress R;* as the best way
to do this. But here are some alternatives:
>From the Main Menu:
R;nnn (Where nnn represents an individual message number)
Allows you to read and reply to one message. After
reading that one message a prompt will appear that allows you to insert
another number to read. This is NOT usually recommended since you miss
all of the messages in between the ones you read and, unless you go
back and read them, you will not see them. Your message pointer, the
thing that keeps track of the last message you read, will be updated
when you log off.
R;nnn+ (Where nnn represents an individual message number)
Allows you to read and reply to all messages, in
subject order, starting from the message number you have entered
(note that there is a plus sign [+] following the message number.
This is useful when you want to go back to a certain number to begin
reading or if you haven't been on for a while and want to skip a lot
of messages that are "new" but that you haven't got the opportunity
to read. Once again, your message pointer will be updated to the
last message you read, so, if you don't keep track you will loose
the opportunity to read previous messages.
RC;* RC stands for Read Continuous. This is useful for
or RC;nnn+ "downloading" the current messages into a file for
printing or examining later. The messages will
appear in NUMERICAL order, but you will NOT be offered an opportunity
to reply. Messages will just keep scrolling into your system and you
will need to use a "capture buffer" to retain them. RC;* will start
from the first new message, RC;nnn+ will start from the message number
you have entered. While this is a way to "grab" messages quickly to
read off-line, it tends to discourage replies and often turns the user
into a reader rather than a participant. Your message pointer will be
updated.
Along with these read options, there are some ways to look for
messages. All of them are generally followed with the number of the
message you wish to start at and a plus sign [+].
Q;nnn+ Quick Scan will display the subjects of messages
in numerical order.
S;nnn+ Scan will display the "message headers," the time
and date of the message, the message number, the
name of the person it is from, the name of the
person it is to, and the subject.
Q?;nnn+ The R, Q, or S command, followed by a question mark
S?;nnn+ [?] will allow you to search for a keyword or name
R?;nnn+ in the message header. Since Q only displays the
subject, I believe it will only search for keywords
in the subject, while the others will also allow
a search for the name of the person it is from or
to.
Hope that these "advanced features" allow you to tailor your use of
MAGIC! to the way you would like it.
Msg #3523 Dated 0:57:51 12-05-90 -> 3528
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SIXTH FINGER
How about nested thumb tips -- so you can steal one while you pass the
other one out for examination? Or one made like a Foo Can, so you can
show it empty after the salt vanish...?
Msg #3526 Dated 1:34:18 12-05-90 -> 3550
From: TED EGGERS
To: ALL
Re: PRACTICE AND PATTER
A couple of questions for you guys. What methods do you use to
practice? How do you practice for a new effect vs. an old effect
When you practice do you also go over the patter for that effect?
That brings me to my next question. How do you write entertaining
patter for that new effect? I know the patter should reflect the
performer's style and that for everyone the creative process will
be different. But what I'm looking for is hints,thoughts or
even book recommendations to help in starting that creative process.
Let me try an example. You've just bought Max's new book FOCUS.
You ignore the disclaimer :-) and find an effect you want to learn.
How do you learn it and come up with some snappy patter?
Of course this will depend on the performer. But that's what I'm
asking, how do you Pete,Max,David,Wayne,Mac etc, go about it?
I hope this is clear enough. All I'm really asking for is hints on
practicing and patter.
Msg #3527 Dated 3:49:41 12-05-90 -> 3529
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
Some guys do make an effort to check...
...maybe the ones that don't just don't know any better.
(but then there ARE the ones that just don't give a *&%#!)
Msg #3528 Dated 3:55:44 12-05-90 3523 <--> 3727
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SIXTH FINGER
I've been working on a Chinese Linking Thumb Tips routine...will let
you know how it develops.
Msg #3529 Dated 4:01:19 12-05-90 3514 <--> 3561
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
It's not a rub off at all...I appreciate the suggestion.
By the way, the mag is really looking good. (Aside from the Jay Scott
Berry pix which looked like they were shot in a coal mine with a
Bic lighter flash!) The Berry article was "Berry" good indeed! (Sorry)
He's an interesting and creative fellow and the article captured that
along with his dedication and sense of wonder. Keep up the great
work...I really look forward to each new issue.
Msg #3531 Dated 8:51:52 12-05-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MY FUNERAL
So if you thought I'd died, how come I didn't see you at
the funeral....saaay...
Yeah, I'm still here...we're beginning to situate
ourselves for a move south..it'll take months, as you well
know...moving a household especially a 200 year old one is gonna
be murder....much of my magic library has been unpacked...its
taken over four years digging for books and now they'll probably
be the last packed...probably should packem first, the computer
too, I'd be more motivated to sell, buy and setup again....
When we collect the dough I'll buy a nice laptop (love
that micro of yours) and stay in touch anyway...sooo there..I
slowed down writing a bit as you noticed cuz dealing with other
BS + MAGIC! is getting established now and there are plenty of
good people contributing....at first we were few...I do miss JEFF
BUSBY's input....guess he's busy getting THE MAN WHO WAS ERDNASE
out .... I ordered an advance copy a few weeks go, I guess I
shoulda sed "advance ordered a copy" so will see it soon I
hope...Jeff's set up quite an operation out of his homebase there
in Oakland and puts out GOOD STUFF........
I'm getting interested in doing some card magic again and
have been pouring through the books looking for effects I like
and are within my skill range (zero right now). Howie has an
effect in PROFESSIONAL CARD MAGIC by Cliff Green that he showed
us the other night..he looks through the deck and takes out one
(?) card and places it face down on the table....I was then given
a free choice from the face down pack which I slid (still face
down) from the ribbon spread deck....finger (mine) stayed on card
till the deck was put away...the "prediction" card stayed on
table in full view.....when both cards were turned over the JC
was on table and JS was under my finger.....I liked it...I've got
my own theory of course, but h (h=Howie) sez its in Cliff Green's
book - which I don't have -....sooooo..looks like I gotta get
another book......I've got a few secrets I'm gonna sell
soon....like some of guys I traveled with might pay me to keep my
mouth shut....maybe there will be a funeral (mine).....oh well, I
swore an oath of silence and I'll keep my word....My mom sez I
should write a book about my years on the road....I would but I
wouldn't want her to read it...be my luck, it'd be a best seller.
I appreciate all the info (from everyone) on double
facers and finally ordered a coupla dozen decks of the bike cards
from HANK LEE..I've been buying pretty much exclusively (except
used books) since 1974 or 1975 when I met him at TAOM in
Houston.....I was checking his book catalog (new books, pretty
complete) and over 15 years I had bought almost a quarter of the
catalog...and still no Christmas Card from Hank....thanks to
MAGIC! I am now exposed to more magic persons and I can choose
whom I deal with .... usually like to trade with friends if
possible....so whats new......tried to buy the double facers from
one of the dealers here on line, I guess he didn't think it was
worth it for a deck of cards...guess I shoulda told him I wanted
one than one or two..
Really enjoyed reading your story about the crypt at
DAVENPORT'S....that wouldof been a dream come true, especially
getting what you wanted at 1930s prices...hey..got any of those
wooden ball vases left..??..probably not, but you never know
unless you ask....
Started working on BEN HARRIS' effect GREAT DIVIDE... its
a torn and restored card trick using a sawing a lady in half
patter...fold two cards lengthwise and tear in half...the inside
card is restored after some byplay....I like card tricks where
they are mutilated somehow...most folks were taught when they
were kidz not to tear the cards up....if you can foldem or tearem
up and not get in trouble then you've gotta platform on which to
stand.......he came up with this in 1985, however I just ran
across it.........no bass solo, we had to let him go...tabman
Msg #3537 Dated 10:15:42 12-05-90 -> 3538
From: JEFF BUSBY
To: TED EGGERS (X)
Re: PATTER
Hi Ted and All: I've been somewhat silent lately -- biz and all, but
I read the message flow when time permits. Since involvement with
magic is a full-time activity for me, reading your comments is a
busman's holiday. I'd like to keep it that way, so no comment on the
controversies roaring back and forth -- have to keep my fingers off the
keyboard when I see stuff involving friends, clients, and ctomers!
>From a personal standpoint, I believe business should be conducted
privately, so I have refrained from noting where some of the products
discussed on this BBS could be bought. But there's an answer to your
question on patter, Ted, that I must tell you about. It's an audio
cassette course by the late, great, Sid Lorraine called "A TALK ABOUT
PATTER: WRITE IT YOURSELF". Consists of 2 60-minute cassettes in a
binder, with a booklet, plus Sid's Patter Chart System, plus "The Do's
and Don'ts of Patter Writing and Delivery". This is a complete course
in patter writing and delivery -- both for the comedy patter magician
AND the performer who wants to use serious patter. I think Pete would
agree that Sid had some of the funniest material around -- his books
from the 1930s are still great resources. And, Sid himself could break
up the stiffest audience. Sid's whole course used to sell for almost
200 bucks. It's a product we produce and it sells for $30.00 + $4.00
shipping and handling. (Ted, I don't know if you live in California,
but if you do, you gotta include the proper sales tax for your area.)
Several dealers stock the course, so you may be able to get it locally.
If not, you can get it direct. In addition to Sid's course, there are
lots of books on comedy patter and delivery. The problem is sifting
through them all. I think the best of the current crop is Judy
Carter's book -- there's great advice on deciding on a personality.
Pete will remember a book Ken Brooke used to sell called "MAKE 'EM
LAUGH!" by a British writer (I think Michael Killgariff, but the name
sort of escapes me at the moment). Who says timing can't be taught?
That book was the only one that ever explained the secret of comedy
timing! Best of luck, Ted.
Msg #3538 Dated 10:45:00 12-05-90 3537 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: JEFF BUSBY (X)
Re: PATTER
Hi Jeff: Good to see your fingers still work. Keep it up. Got all the
great stuff and await the ERDNASE book. Have a shipping date yet?
Msg #3539 Dated 10:45:43 12-05-90 -> 3555
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: I FORGET
of the leading lights on MAGIC!) but I forgot.
Answering your message. I did go to your funeral, but you
weren't there. We had lotsa booze and amazingly no one did any
packet tricks.
Regarding moving libraries. Nobody on this planet has more
books than Jay Marshall. When The Great Jasper (on of his early
stage names) was single, and moved often, he made his book cases
out of Wooden Whisky Boxes. They were stacked up, looked like
book cases and when he moved he didn't have to pack or unpack. He
just moved the cases (with the books in 'em).
I wish I had time to empty enough boxes for my library, I
would go that system in a minute.
Who knows, when I unpack there might be some wooden ball
vases around. I know Mark Burger probably still has some (but
from him you gotta buy) as his dad bought all those I brough
back on the last trip.
Not much else happening. Got the shows all lined up for
Baltimore and we are going to do the Comedy Club in one of the
small ballrooms at the hotel -- saves attendees having to walk
four blocks each way to see one show. We will set the room for
the show, keep it dark and work with a couple of follow spots so
the atmosphere will be fine. The acts will be STRONG and can
handle any room, as you know with comics and guitar players.
AMF (=Adios my Friend)
Upload error lost first line. It was:: "During Halloween I was going to
nickname you TAB-O-LANTERN as you are one of the leading lights...
Msg #3540 Dated 10:47:07 12-05-90 -> 3546
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: YES
Wayne: Hey... I've been doing the linking Thumb Tips for eleven
years. Just because you call 'em Chinese doesn't mean you can get
away with stealing my material.
You might be interested to know the "so-called" Chinese
Linking Rings were in a German catalog BEFORE China was even
invented. They were credited to a German Count who had engraved
on the inside of the Key Ring "ALL RIGHTS RESERVED - Reproduction
of these rings by any means, Scroll, Carved Stone, Cliff Writing,
Indian Blanket Smoke Signal is prohibited without express written
permission of the National Football League".
Unfortunately the writing was in German, the Chinese didn't
know what it said, and wham.... thousands of copies of the trick
were sold.
Msg #3541 Dated 10:47:49 12-05-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: FOO CAN
TA: If someone has double vision do they say TA TA to you?
Hey, the Foo Can thumb tip sounds great. But didn't Himber market
that years ago called the "$10,000 solid gold gimmick"???
He said it was the only completely examinable gimmick that
no one ever sees.
We once passed a sword cabinet out to the audience to
examine. REALLY! It was a riot as the aud was handing it over the
rows to people behind them, etc.
Some guy had built the thing and donated it to our club. So
at the finish of the trick we said, "The person NOW HOLDING IT
HAS TO KEEP IT!"
Msg #3542 Dated 10:48:37 12-05-90 -> 3551
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: STAN LAKE
Stan: I have just thought of something from your message about
Sam the Silkworm. I have no idea what you are doing, set up, etc-
wise, but here is a thought.
Get some LARGE spools of thread. Large enough to drill a
hole into one end that the thumb tip will fit into.
Load two or three with different colors (that match the
thread color).
Ask kids to pick a color. As you unwind some thread steal
the thumb tip from inside the spool.
The rest as they say, is history.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: Anyone stealing this trick from Stan is
hereby banned from life from MAGIC! and must get all their magic
news from dealer newsletters. Unless permission is granted by
electronic means (you get a battery in the mail) from Stan Lake,
Pete Biro and Tabby Crabb. Tabman doesn't know about this, but
he is fair.
Msg #3543 Dated 10:49:16 12-05-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: TED EGGERS (X)
Re: PRACTICE?
Ted: Practice. Depends. If it is the move, the sleight, the
handling you can practice in any way you want. Repetition,
looking in mirror, self video, anything.
Rehearsal is different. Rehearsal is the ACT.
I used to work with a stage performer doing Midnight Spook
Shows (Francisco) and he would rent a hall or an unused
storefront, set up the illusions and would rehearse there.
I was with Norm Nielsen in Reno where he was performing
nightly in a review. EVERY AFTERNOON (and here is an act he had
been doing for years!!) you would find him at the theater doing
his act just as if there was a full audience.
When I joined a revue with Johnny Thompson he asked me to
rehearse it word for word in his living room. This I had a
difficult time with. But I did it. It was a little stiff, as I
like to really do lines to people in the audience and I play off
their reactions.
Clever Patter. There is no answer here. I don't know your
style. You don't really have to be clever. But you must be
likeable. LIKABLE is probably 75% of what Jay Leno has.
Your natural style of speaking will come forth with lots of
work. Just be YOU. If you naturally come up with little funny
comments go for it. But don't use canned patter. Much of today's
stock stuff had its origins in the Robert Orben Patter books. You
could tell an act used Orben books by the stock lines.
Be timely. Tie in your talk with the days news, if possible.
But most important two things: 1) Clarke Crandall used to use X-
Rated patter in his late night shows at the Castle (they weren't
even close to being dirty, he just refered to his old uncle's
outhouse, etc.) and he said: "It is impossible for a young guy to
do htis kind of patter. He doesn't look like he's been around, is
experienced enough to know what he is talking about."
That is a very strong bit of information. I just got a tape
form a young guy who had a great silent comedy act. He wanted to
show me his new Talking Act and I was sick. He was dirty, and it
didn't fit. It was cheap humor. No plot, nothing clever, just
foul talke.
2) Don't over act. Don't be someone you are not -- UNLESS YOU ARE
REALLY GOOD AT THE ACTING PART. Find someone who's opinion you
really trust. It need not be a friend, friends are usually too
easy on you, but someone that is experienced. And tell them to be
sincere. In close up we all need someone to be honest. I have
seen many really good workers UNKNOWINGLY flash loads, etc. The
audiences are polite, they don't say anything. Other magi are the
same, they are afraid to KNOCK someone they percieve as great.
Every time I see a flaw I tell the perfomer. You have to use
tact, but tell 'em!
NOTE: Added here after seeing Busby message. Yes, check out the
material Jeff talks about, especially the Sid Lorraine tape.
Msg #3546 Dated 14:20:50 12-05-90 3540 <--> 3547
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: YES
DAMN!!!
Okay, Pete...so you did Chuck Fayne's act before Chuck was born...you
did Chinese Linking ThumbTips for YEARS...you told Johnny Ace Palmer to
use chicks (the feathered variety) in his cups & balls routine...
...SOMEDAY I'M GONNA HAVE AN ORIGINAL IDEA...
how about...
paddle-move thumbtips...kinda like "I bite my nails/I just had a
manicure/I bite my nails/I just had a manicure"
ahhh..forget it.
Msg #3547 Dated 15:15:44 12-05-90 3546 <--> 3557
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: YES
Sounds great the paddle move thumb tip. You could do like I did in 1936
have two nails on one tip and the colors change. But I did not tell
Johnny Ace Palmer to use little chickens. I said, "Chicks" as in Cher,
or Madonna. He would have to switch to B cups....
I found some thumb tips that were not finished once. They were two
ended and they cut 'em in half to finish. Any ideas with one of these?
Maybe we could put 'em where the sun don't shine???
Keep at it, some day you will realize how important this stuff is.
Msg #3549 Dated 16:09:02 12-05-90 3519 <--> 3567
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: BOOK AND VIDEO REVIEWS
OK, so how do we start? Will we have a separate section set up where
we can upload our reviews? We could have it categorized by Books,
Videos, and Effects. Some sort of brief note to contributors to give
them an idea of what information to be sure to include such as-
1. What they liked about it.
2. What they didn't like about it.
3. Why they bought it.
4. Was it worth it.
5. How much it cost.
6. Where they got it.
7. How much expertise is required.]
8. The reviewers level of expertise. (Obviously, what one person may
find easy to do, another may have difficulty with).
I'm sure there are other things, but those are just off the top of my
head. I'm looking forward to this if it's possible!
Msg #3550 Dated 16:17:55 12-05-90 3526 <--> 3558
From: STAN LAKE
To: TED EGGERS (X)
Re: PRACTICE AND PATTER
I have found a video camera to be an excellent way to practice. You
can do a trick, routine or an entire show and review it to see exactly
what your audience will see. You can watch it over and make notes,
should I stand here or there, are the lines delivered in an effective
manner, does the trick or routine LOOK good. The camera doesn't miss
a thing. Another good idea someone else mentioned is an unbiased
person who will tell you whether or not your act is ENTERTAINING.
Another persons objectivity is something you can't get from a camera.
My wife certainly doesn't hesitate to tell me when I need improvement
and that has saved me needless embarrassment when I thought I was good.
I can't disagree with others far wiser than I when they say to be
yourself, however, I find that difficult when everyone else is funnier.
Good luck!
Msg #3551 Dated 16:27:20 12-05-90 3542 <-
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: STAN LAKE
That's really a great idea. You have your moments of brilliance, don't
you? Can we market this for Megabucks?
Msg #3552 Dated 16:31:39 12-05-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: HISTORIC ROUTINE
Here is one of the Classic Routines in magic -- the Egg Bag -- as
performed by one of Vaudeville's top magical entertainers, Judson
Cole.
This material was give to the late Lindsey Hopkins by Cole
many years ago. Hopkins was kind enough to transfer the rights to
me just before his passing.
I don't suggest anyone try to do this routine verbatim. I
would suggest looking it over, studying what a full time
vaudeville professional did, see how it relates to the 1920s,
think how it might be adapted to the 1990s and let me know what
you come up with.
EGG BAG
JUD COLE ROUTINE
If anybody has a bottle of Sherry I'll show you another
trick with an egg: No offers? Then I'll use instead a small bag
and an egg. When I place the egg in the bag, the egg disappears.
You all realize the hand is quicker than the eye--that's why
there are so many black eyes. Now watch--on the count of three
the egg will disappear-one-two-three! (On count of three quickly
appear to put egg under left arm pit but really place egg in
bag.)
Under the arm? No, there's nothing under my other arm
either. Raise it up? That's as far as I can raise it! I didn't
like you when you first came in! There's really nothing under
the arm. In thee hand? No there's nothing in the hand. As a
matter of fact, you were on the wrong scent; which considering
the age of the egg is perhaps just as well. There seems to be
some doubt as to just how this trick is accomplished.
I'm going to ask a committee from the audience to step on
the stage and examine the bag. We won't ask anyone to actually
step on the stage--I shall so instead simply ask someone to hold
the bag. I realize this is no novelty as many people here in
(name locale) have held the bag before, particularly in the (name
business).
Perhaps we had better try the children. For the trick I'd
like to get a boy from the audience to hold the magic egg bag.
(find boy 11 or 12 years old if possible) I want you to look over
the audience and pick out a little girl to help us with the
trick: there's a nice looking you lady (take the children back to
the stage--reaching center stage in a loud voice) You are now on
the stage! This is the stage and this is the scenery: (to boy)
its over here--the scenery! (To girl) What is your first name?
Mary--why that is my favorite name. As a matter of fact my name
was Mary before I was born (shake hands during this) (Repeat name
business with boy and as you shake hands, say) How are you Henry"
Do you know Mary? Not acquainted-eh? You don't get around much!
Allow me to introduce you. Miss Mary -- May I present Mr. Henry.
(Cue boy to give girl his left hand) Now that we're all
acquainted--you don't have to hold her hand any longer--now that
we're all acquainted we'll hunt for the elusive egg.
Mary, will you feel all around to see that there's nothing
inside? Nothing there? Henry, will you put your FOOT, -- I mean
your hand inside? The bag is empty isn't it? Will you place
your first finger in the corner of the bag--and you do the same
(to girl) and hold the bag up high so all the congregation can
see it. Now you are perfectly satisfied the bag is empty. This
to children holding bag. (Cue boy to feel edge of bag) You
wouldn't take my word for it would you? (Cue boy to feel edge of
bag again) No there's really nothing in there until I make a few
mysterious passes -- and here we have the egg.
Now I'm going to show you exactly how the trick is done (cue
boy to pretend to chew gum) Will you throw that gum into
neutral? (Cue him to put gum into his pocket--then stop him)
Perhaps it fits in your mouth better. Now! We simply pretend to
place the egg in the bag but actually bring it out in the hand.
In case anyone sees the egg and tries to expose the trick I
simply rub the egg until it becomes smaller and smaller--a tiny
white speck--you can scarcely see it. (Cue boy to feel sleeve of
hand where egg was supposed to have been). Oh--No--it's not up my
sleeve. Henry--if you don't believe the bag is empty you can get
in and walk around. (Put his hand inside). If you will look
inside you will see a tiny white spot getting larger and larger
and there it is! Take it out Henry--(cue him to scratch his
head).
Are you a judge of eggs? Shake it to your ear and give me
your candle opinion, will you?
If there's a Chicken inside he's almost sure to wag his
tail. (Cue boy to smell egg). Finish.
<>.
Msg #3554 Dated 16:35:50 12-05-90 -> 3587
From: PETE BIRO
To: GENO MUNARI (X)
Re: WHERE IS YOU??
Geno: Just wondered if you have been checking in and reading stuff. Are
you going to be able to do a quick report on the Close Up convention
from the San Remo? Wish I could be there... got to check my schedule
again, I do have to drive to L.A. and back to swap cars, but don't know
the date yet. Will letcha know... otherwise do a good one! And besides,
I have to see the first half of Melinda's show.
Msg #3555 Dated 17:15:42 12-05-90 3539 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: I FORGET
I was there too, Tabman. Only I figured that knowing the company you
keep, it was best to travel incognito. Pete did a splendid, tearful,
eulogy and held himself down to only 4 tricks during it (Although,
Pete, I thought the part about how you perfected Tabby's whole routine
12 years before he was born was a bit overdone). And Copperfield's
lowering of your coffin was great! As a matter of fact, they filmed it
for his next special, so you may get to see it after all. As a matter
of fact, so many magi were there that we decided to hold a convention!
So, as you can see, you got a fine sendoff. Although I did think that
the guys who showed up only 'cause they heard that your library was
gonna be divided among those who came showed some poor taste.
Msg #3556 Dated 18:12:57 12-05-90 -> 3778
From: JOE RYAN
To: HARRISON CARROLL (X)
Re: COLD READING
harry is that you this is joe ryan of cemk in roch see you at 4fs
Msg #3557 Dated 19:33:30 12-05-90 3547 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: YES
1936???
DAMMIT!!!
Hmmmm...your "unfinished" thumb tips sound interesting...you could
string them together and do a "Thumbs to Sausages" transformation.
I know.....I know....
You were the one who originally showed that to Carter The Great in
1927!
Harumph!!!
Msg #3558 Dated 20:02:09 12-05-90 3526 <--> 3565
From: RANDY LUND
To: TED EGGERS (X)
Re: PRACTICE AND PATTER
Marilyn and I find that the use of a Video Camera really helps with
practice. We can review what we do, back up, look in slo-mo etc. until
we get what what we want. Patter, ours, as opposed to canned is more
tough but it seems to work when we are just us and play off against one
another. For example when we do The professors nightmare I am the put
upon husband/magi who asked his assistant to cut him three equal ropes.
After several tries she gets it right and I am all the more perplexed
and frustrated. Then as I go back to the cabinet for my next effect
she pulls the three unequal ropes out with this smile like she got the
joke and I did't. That works for us and came out of watching some of
our videoed practices.
Msg #3559 Dated 20:09:43 12-05-90
From: RANDY LUND
To: ALL
Re: MAGICDB VERSION 2
MagicDB seems to be being discussed a lot lately and I appreciate the
positive comments. As Dave L has said V2 is about ready to go. A week
or so more testing (we don't want bugs) and it should be ready. New
features include:
1. Trick Flags...you will be able to code a trick for more than one
flag. ie cups and balls could be coded for balls
and equipment as well as transport, production,
vanish etc. Whatever turns you on.
2. New Screen Colors...In addition to my wild color scheme there
will be three new color schemes. A basically blue
version with better contrast but less colorful than
the current screen, a white on black standard
monochrome screen and a white on black (ala MAC)
screen for those who like that.
3. Printer.......The need for a wide carriage printer has been
eliminated. All reports now print in 80 col.
The database is not quite the same but it will come with a convert
program to take the V1 db and convert it to V2. I needed to do this to
get the added fgs and the screen color data. Any work done to date on
your database will not be lost, but you will have to review your
entries to see if multiple flags are in order.
Msg #3561 Dated 20:27:17 12-05-90 3529 <--> 3573
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
The Berry issue turned out quite different than we had planned. Genii
was used as a mailing for a press kit. In my opinion. We got shafted on
that one. rrrrrrrrgh.
Msg #3565 Dated 21:39:31 12-05-90 3550 <--> 3570
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: PRACTICE AND PATTER
Tedd,
I have several ways of working up material. My favorite method
is to go to a comedy club or magic show with a pencil and piece
of paper. If the magi or comic says or does anything I really
like, I write it down verbatim and go home and practice it.
When I can do it at least half as well as the guy I stole it
from I use it in my act and claim he stole it from me. Its
really a great way to get audience tested material. And nobody
REALLY minds if you do this. After all imitation is the
sincerest form of flattery.
Of course there are some purists out there who frown on this
behavior.
But seriously folkssss.
Try going to your local library and looking in the section on
humour writing. One good book is called How to Write and Sell
Your Sense of Humour by Roger Perret. He has a pretty good
system for writing volumes of material. I filled three full
pages with fairly good jokes in about an hour while working at
my day job using his method. Naturally it wasn't all usable
stuff, but once you get on a roll you would be surprised at
what you can do.
I wrote one entire show just by going onstage and doing it on a
wing and a prayer. Not everyone can get away with that and I
would not recommend it but I was younger, dumber and didn't
know better at the time. I also happen to be fairly good at
ad-lib. After a couple of years of doing this act a nice lady
came up and said " You acted so natural on stage. It was almost
as if you were making it all up as you went." I wasn't,but most
of my material had been written off the cuff while
performing in the past. If the stuff worked, I used it. I ended
up with an act that looked completely improvisational.
For those who, like me, dont like to recite lines to a blank
wall I have this tip. Rehearse lines while driving down the
road. Try different wordings till you feel comfortable. Avoid
repitition of certain words and phrases. Also avoid reptition
of certain words and phrases. (oops) For example if you have a
series of sentences where you have to say the word "magician"
three times, say it three dfferent ways,
magician-conjuror-magic men etc..
Msg #3567 Dated 23:36:13 12-05-90 3549 <--> 3603
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: BOOK AND VIDEO REVIEWS
I'd like to start it as messages in the present section. As you may
know, I'm trying to work on a "questionnaire" for a membership
directory and, if this review concept goes over with the MAGIC! members
then we might build a second questionnaire that asks appropriate
questions. The results could be placed in a continuously updated file
that members could periodically download. What do you think of that,
rather than a second section which I think would be inconvenient (not
only for members, but for the Sysop!). It will take me some time to
get the questionnaire done, but the messages can start here right now.
I like your "questions" and hope that everyone will use them as a
guide. I think it is a great idea - let's see some members
contributing reviews.
Msg #3569 Dated 0:27:07 12-06-90 -> 3604
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
Here's a thought I just had for a "gimmick" to hang a routine on...
With all of the interest in ecology, how about an act using all
"recycled" props? Maybe some common husehold items? Any ideas out
there?
Msg #3570 Dated 0:50:15 12-06-90 3526 <--> 3802
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TED EGGERS (X)
Re: PRACTICE AND PATTER
Ted, there have already been some fine answers from other MAGIC!
members, but here are my answers to your questions:
o Methods for practice. Like Stan Lake, I use video during
practice sessions. When first working on something I have a
mirror set up I've made (three 12" x 12" mirrors [the "stick up"
kind people use on walls] safely taped together [duct tape or
gaffers tape]) that I place across the table to check angles.
Depending on the effect and the criticality of different angles,
the mirrors can even be suspended at "eye level." I sometimes
refine this by setting up the video camera behind me and letting
it record the views in the three mirrors. Once I'm comfortable
with a routine, I test it on family (until this step, I almost
never even let my wife see it) and friends. When possible I also
tape my first few actual performances of a new routine. I try to
put the camera in an unobtrusive place (like the back of the room)
and just let it run. What I try to look for in that tape is clues
to how the effects went over, and whether the patter hit the mark
- Is the audience laughing when I expected they would? Are they
getting "serious" during the serious parts? And is it timing out
in "real life" the way I expected it to.
o Different levels of practice for "new" vs. "old" material.
Generally, I won't do a "new" effect until it has become an "old"
one. I will work on the effect seperate from any routine until
I'm comfortable with it. Only then will it begin to get into a
routine. The times that I've violated that, I've generally not
been pleased with the results.
o Developing patter. There have already been some good
recommendations for books, tapes, etc. Some looked so good that I
plan to get 'em myself. But I also think that a performer's
"style" goes beyond the patter for an individual effect. Whenever
possible, for example, I like "segues," transition lines that bind
the whole routine together. I don't like doing "trick, trick,
trick," I like a routine that has a reasonably plausible
continuous "story" to it - for example, I might do something like
a bill effect that began with "The other day I was in the
supermarket and..." At the end of the bill effect I might go into
a coin one, saying, "You know, I don't just have trouble with
bills, I even have trouble with coins" or "At that very same
supermarket I had something odd happen with coins too." Something
like that. So how do you put that together? Here's the method I
was taught... first make a list of 14 or 15 effects that you LIKE
to do and that you do VERY WELL. Then select one you would like
to open with (usually something quick and visual - I'm doing a
variation of Frank Garcia's "Embarrassed Card" for my opener right
now - quick, visual, and audience participation. For magi I've
sometimes substituted "David's Impossible Select" that I just
published on here). From there I seque to a modified version of a
Jim Kahlert version of an effect in which a spectator notes the
serial number of a bill, places it in a box, and it "vanishes," to
reappear inside four sealed envelopes. My transition? "I got
that effect from the Magician's Mail Order service... Let me show
you how that works... First we send in a dollar bill..." Out of
your 14 to 15 "best" effects, you can usually put together 5 to
form a routine this way.
I've gone on long enough. Hope I've been of some help.
Msg #3573 Dated 9:25:56 12-06-90 3561 <--> 3629
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
Sorry to hear that. I did enjoy the article, as "presskit" oriented as
it was, because Berry had some interesting things to say.
On a more positive note, you must be working around the clock to do all
the impressive "catching up" you've been doing!
The only danger is that you'll spoil us into EXPECTING Genii to arrive
so often in the future!
Keep the midnight oil burnin', Dante!
Msg #3579 Dated 13:04:40 12-06-90 -> 3580
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: ALL
Re: FAVORITE CARD PRODUCTION
My favorite method to reveal a card is to have a spectators freely
(????) selected card disappear from the deck and appear, in an
envelope, on a picture, of my son holding the card (in my case a 10 of
Diamonds), that has been in the spectators pocket before the start of
the routine.
When I give the spectator the envelope, (at the beginning of my
routine), I tell them to put the envelope in there pocket (At this
point the spectators mind should be off the envelope). I usual do two
or three tricks with the deck before I even start the effect that I am
going to use the envelope production for. In this manner the
spectators mind is not even thinking about the envelope. When I go
into the routine that I am going to use the envelope production for I
use my favorite FORCE to FORCE the 10 of diamonds which is in the
picture in the spectators pocket. I have the spectator return the card
to the middle of the deck and bring it to the top of the deck. I
then Palm the 10 of Diamonds off the top of the deck, so that when I
turn the cards face-up and give the deck to the spectator to look for
their card, it's not to be found.
Since we can't seem to find there card, I tell the Spectator to take
the envelope out of his pocket because I want to show him a picture of
my son doing a card prediction routine. Of course when the spectator
removes the picture he sees my 8 month old son holding the 10 of
Diamonds in his hand.
I know this sounds simple and maybe even a little stupid but for you
guys out there on the BBS with new babies or even grand babies it is a
great routine and audiences really eat this up!!! I have done this in
my routine downstairs IN THE PUB at the Castle and it kills!!
And it's so SIMPLE!!
I have been reluctant to add my thoughts here on MAGIC! because I
could not Upload ASCII text in the message area until I changed my
telecommunications program. I am now running PROCOMM and if you are
reading this it seems to work. If you have any questions on the above
effect feel free to ask or if your in the Los Angeles/ Hollywood area
drop by a RING 21 meeting and I can show it to you.
Msg #3580 Dated 13:15:28 12-06-90 3579 <--> 3593
From: PETE BIRO
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: FAVORITE CARD PRODUCTION
Thanks... sounds good. I use Procomm, and just switched to PROCOMM
PLUS (downloaded from the Compuserve Forum for communications) itis
a little easier to use, but not worth paying for if yoiu already have
Procomm. It is so easy to use Procomm, I download all the messages and
read, then re log on and upload 'em with Procomm. Keep at it!
Msg #3583 Dated 13:26:08 12-06-90 -> 3595
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC POSTERS FOR SALE
I will be selling a collection of magic posters.
They are all quite collectable and vary from smaller printed posters
from the 40's, 50's, early 60's...to some very rare stone lithographs
from around the 1930's down to the 20's and before.
I haven't put the list together yet, but there should be something
there for just about everyone...and in every price range...from $15 up
to $1000 plus.
Some are framed, some are not.
They are all nice pieces.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED, please leave me a private message.
Thanks.
'Wayne.
Msg #3584 Dated 13:37:44 12-06-90 -> 3625
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ARROWHEAD SPRINGZ
I appreciate the quality, tone and tome of YOUR, and the
esteemed DR. LICHTMAN'S humor; finding myrth in the oddest of
arenas. The rumors that I died are exagerated, though I expect to
at some date in the future....until that time I remain as I am,
just a rock and roll country magic man...
Last night in Baltimore I met our colleague, CHARLIE
RANDALL, at the Inner Harbor Sheraton. Charlie, I find, is a
computer maven for NASA (an ADA specialist), and an all around
nice guy looking somewhat like a younger, moustached PETE BIRO.
MR. RANDALL, as he instructed me to address him as he got in my
car directed me to HOWIE SCHWARZMAN's house where MRS. HOWIE
dulled our senses with pasta and sherry before howie demonstrated
some of the magic he has in his dungeon shop in the basement.
Howie demonstrated effects on a small close up pad resting on an
ironing board with all manner of magical supplies haphazardly
piled about the room.
A MAGICAL BOOKMAN along with partner RICHARD HATCH, Mr.
Randall and I enjoyed seeing part of Howie's great collection of
books - especially the leather bound, gilt edged copy of THE FINE
ART OF MAGIC especially bound for MR. KAPLAN himself by the book
bindery....Kaplan autographed it to Howie himself after Howie
aquired it from the guy the binder gave it to after Kaplan forgot
to pick it up....did you get that..."Fine Art..." is one of my
personal faves (a mere pion, I've got a regular 1st ed)..this
book is great...just ask DOC EASON who uses ideas set down fifty
some odd years ago by this New York Lawyer (is there any other
kind short of a Beverly Hills entertainment counselor?) in his
great act....
Charlie told me he missed my letters from the rubber
room. I thanked him and admitted I was actually being held
prisoner at the estate by my attorney and my wife while my mother
hides out on the west coast with my sister waiting for the green
house to take effect......Theres a great title for a trick..THE
GREEN HOUSE EFFECT...(C)1990 by tabman's wife's younger brother's
lawyer..Mfg Rites Observed and Perforrmance Rites Obfuscated....
The water guys keep telling me next week...its been
getting me down..we wanna get outa here and down to the
heartland...Hey RICHARD STREET there in Nashville...Hold On, I'm
Commin....Sam and Dave too....got sortof a dream of getting a
hundred acres west of town and starting an artists community with
8 or ten peoples (families) and hunkering down....drill the deep
well and set up the sattelite communications....I'll stay in
touch about it....would be more fun for me with a couple'a magic
people around...gonna call it ARROWHEAD SPRINGS.....
Was good seeing JEFF BUSBY's typing on MAGIC! this
morning....always liked this guy's work (I never met him - not a
commercial)...Charlie (sorry Mr. Randall) brought me some books
from the H&R BOOK LIST and among them was MIKE SKINNERS INTIMATE
MAGIC....there it was on the back...Jeff Busby's twinkleye
logo...this guy has been a modern trail blazer in the field..lots
of people have taken his ideas and built great trix and
publishing careers outofem...he just keeps on grinding out super
stuff out of his Oakland digs staying usually more than a step
ahead of everybody else content wise.....
A call from KEITH WALKER from CEMK this morning who sed
JOE RYAN from same had signed on MAGIC! and was their rep
here.....Joe is on the board with Randy DiMarco, Keith, and Obie
OBrien............
OOOps, Gotta go......NURSE is calling me...she wants me
to do that special ROPE TRICK FOR HER IN MY ROOM....see if you
can FIND THE END of this, will ya.....tabman....
Msg #3586 Dated 13:41:04 12-06-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: RICHARD STREET
Re: BONNAVIEW TERRACE
Thanks...more later...looking forward to the stuff from home...tabman
Msg #3587 Dated 15:08:30 12-06-90 3554 <--> 3598
From: GENO MUNARI
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: WHERE IS YOU??
The convention will be held this weekend......great performers and
closeup....at the Hotel San Remo, Las Vegas. Call me if you want more
details.
Msg #3589 Dated 15:16:29 12-06-90 -> 3599
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: BRAIN WAVES
Anybody know where to get BRAIN WAVE decks made up from poker
sized bike rider decks.....
Msg #3593 Dated 16:57:57 12-06-90 3579 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: FAVORITE CARD PRODUCTION
Nice effect, Darrell! Enjoy your 8-month old. In a short time they
turn into 2-year olds and start doing card tricks on ya.
Msg #3595 Dated 17:08:03 12-06-90 3583 <--> 3597
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: MAGIC POSTERS FOR SALE
Wayne, when you have the list together, why not upload it to MAGIC! as
a file?
Msg #3597 Dated 18:00:06 12-06-90 3583 <--> 3618
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: MAGIC POSTERS FOR SALE
Sure Wayne -- I will be interested. P.Biro... WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR
MORE THAN ANYTHING IS A RINGLING BROS. FRANCIS BRUNN POSTER, WC
FIELDS/CHARLIE McCARTHY AND OTHERS.
Msg #3598 Dated 18:03:41 12-06-90 3587 <--> 3657
From: PETE BIRO
To: GENO MUNARI (X)
Re: WHERE IS YOU??
GENO: UNFORTUNATE schedule has me being in San Francisco Sunday night.
And cannot get out of it. I have to Drive to L.A. Tuesday and swap cars
with the factory rep and do some business there. Will probably hit the
Castle for lunch Friday. My schedule sucks right now. Got to find a
place to live soon... and will be with Joe in Wichita Jan. 3rd for a
few days. Give us some kind of "line up" activity revue here on line
when you get the opportunity. Hope it goes great! Wish I was there.
Next time!!! I'll be performing again next year. Got to put my money
where my mouth has been!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Msg #3599 Dated 18:06:15 12-06-90 3589 <--> 3620
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: BRAIN WAVES
Yes.
Msg #3602 Dated 18:52:22 12-06-90 -> 3619
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC POSTERS
Sure thing. It'll take me about a week till I have the time to
calalogue the available stuff...about 40 smaller pieces and a half
dozen or so major pieces. I'll try to bring some of the smaller items
to the next IBM meeting one week from tonight. I'll be glad to post
the list on here...probably by Wednesday or Thursday of next week.
Thanks for your interest, all.
Msg #3603 Dated 19:18:01 12-06-90 3567 <--> 3610
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: BOOK AND VIDEO REVIEWS
That sounds good to me, especially if it doesn't cause you too much
additional time or work! I will look around tonight and see what I can
make a report on myself.
I have a question which I'm sure is answered elsewhere if you could
direct me to it. When I want to download some messages, how do I go
about doing that? Something was mentioned about a "Capture Buffer"
which I am not too sure of. w
Would that be in my DOS manual, Modem manual, or what?
Msg #3604 Dated 19:22:28 12-06-90 3569 <--> 3611
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
One that I am currently using I believe is called "Cans Full Of
Nothing". This is where you have two old tnin cans without bottoms or
tops that you first show empty and then make a production out of. I
guess everyone knows how that works but in case anyone doesn't and
would like to know I will leave a detailed message.
Msg #3606 Dated 20:11:21 12-06-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: CANS OF NUTTIN
Nahmann Nissen, in, I think Petaluma, Calif. (north of San Francisco
along Hiway 101, just south of Santa Rosa) does a great routine using
two tin cans with vegatble labels. I don't recall which actual
mechanical item it is, but I think a variation of Grant's Chink Cans
comes to mind. I once made a set of rice bowls out of flower pots.
And used Breakfast Cereal and Fertilizer instead of rice. And instead
of the load being liquid I just had a rubber chicken stuffed in one of
the bowls. THERE WAS NO GIMMICK. Just the rubber chicken taking up the
space inside one POT.
Its obsolete now, but the punch line was "Aha... a Chicken in Every
Pot!" Mabye someone could come up with a variation that is more
timely. And there are other rubber production items. Fruit, etc. Maybe
somehting recycled or to keep the Green house effect away?
Nothing to do with magic, but did you watch the 49er Giant game last
monday night on TV. Forget the game, but the telephoto shot of the
Moon, JUST AS A PLANE TOOK OFF WAS INCRDIBLE!!! Good plot for
Copperfield.
Understand the FISM has not booked any acts yet. They are negotiating
with Copperfield to bring the full show over. If so htey probably will
not have any budget left to hire acts? That's the rumor anyway.
Msg #3610 Dated 20:47:54 12-06-90 3603 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: BOOK AND VIDEO REVIEWS
Using a "capture" function or "capture buffer" should be in the manual
for your communications software. If you can't find it, tell me what
computer and software you are using and I will try to help.
Msg #3611 Dated 20:50:06 12-06-90 3604 <--> 3617
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
If you made the props from actual tin cans it might be worthwhile to
share with others. Thanks.
Msg #3613 Dated 21:07:32 12-06-90 -> 3694
From: PATRICE MOORE
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: ABBOT'S
Sure, Darrell, let's try again. Did I mention before that Colon is a
tiny town and there is no street address. Write to Abbott's Magic Co.,
Colon, MI 49040 or call (616)432-3235 or (616) 432-3236. Hope you get
it this time!!
Msg #3614 Dated 21:11:35 12-06-90
From: PATRICE MOORE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: JUST WANTED TO SAY HI!
David, Hi! You're right about the subscription deal. As far as
extending it to MAGIC! members, I'll have to take that to the BIG BOSS
and get back to you on that!!
Msg #3615 Dated 21:15:32 12-06-90 -> 3641
From: PATRICE MOORE
To: STEVE KUCERA (X)
Re: U
Steve, if part one of your question wasn't answered, here's what I
know. I was told that if you were a member of any Pacific area local
club you were automatically a member of PCAM. The next PCAM convention
is scheduled (I believe) for June 19-22, 1991. Pre-registration was
quoted at $75 and the contact person was Doug Clark, 1576 First Ave.,
Walnut Creek, CA 94596. Hope this helps!
Msg #3616 Dated 21:32:04 12-06-90
From: PATRICE MOORE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: INSIDE MAGIC
David, I'm a bit slow on the response here. I go into Stan's every
Thursday and today he mentioned something about a subscription here. He
did not tell me, though, you already had spoken and worked out a
"deal"! Oh well! Thanks for the great promotion!
Msg #3617 Dated 21:53:19 12-06-90 3569 <--> 3621
From: PATRICE MOORE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
David, did you happen to hear about "Trash"? Steve Trash does a little
play using magic with a "save the environment" theme. He was in LA with
the show a few months back.
Msg #3618 Dated 21:55:33 12-06-90 3583 <-
From: PATRICE MOORE
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: MAGIC POSTERS FOR SALE
Wayne, don't know if you're set up for this. But if you put out a list,
would you mail me one please? Patrice Moore, 2930 Sterling Street,
Pomona, CA 91767. THANKS!
Msg #3619 Dated 21:57:19 12-06-90 3602 <--> 3658
From: PATRICE MOORE
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: MAGIC POSTERS
Wayne, I guess I should read all the messages THEN reply! I'll be
looking forward to seeing the list!
Msg #3620 Dated 23:48:43 12-06-90 3589 <-
From: RICHARD HART
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: BRAIN WAVES
Tabman:
Make a BRAIN WAVE deck yourself. It's easy. Go out to a hobby
shop and buy 2 cans of spray paint "Dull coat". Buy two decks of
your required type of cards. Spread out some newspaper and lay out
one deck of cards face up on it. Spray a nice even coat of dull coat
over them. When they dry, put them together in the standard BRAIN WAVE
manner. Then, after you get done playing with them (and realizing
you've put on too heavy a coat) lay the second deck out and repeat the
procedure. You'll have what you've asked for, plus an ideal "roughing
fluid" for use in the future. Try it, you'll like it!
_richard
Msg #3621 Dated 0:01:03 12-07-90 3617 <--> 3627
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PATRICE MOORE (X)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
No, I hadn't heard about "Trash." You say that the play includes magic
with a "save the environment" theme? Could you tell us more about the
type of magic he did, etc.?
Msg #3624 Dated 0:29:30 12-07-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: UNZIPMAC
I just found out why UNZIPMAC.SIT doesn't seem to work! It itself IS
a compressed file, using a compression system that is only used on a
Mac! I've uploaded UNSIT and UNSIT.DOC to the MAGIC! files area
(remember the MAGIC! number - 13 - if you use the List command).
UNSIT.DOC briefly tells how to use UNSIT.
Now, if you think it is crazy that the UNZIP program, which is supposed
to uncompress "Zipped" files was itself compressed using a different
system (SIT), then you'll love the fact that the UNSIT program was
originally ARC'ed (yet another compression program)! And that isn't
the worst! I have a nice UNZIP program for the AMIGA that arrived
ZIPPED! (Anyone like "locked room" puzzles? This is one in which the
key is INSIDE the locked room!
Anyway, you might want to try UNSIT to uncompress UNZIPMAC.SIT.
Msg #3625 Dated 0:41:28 12-07-90 3584 <--> 3663
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ARROWHEAD SPRINGZ
I am told -- though I don't have any proof for it -- that much of the
material in Kaplan's admittedly excellent book came from S. Leo
Horowitz. Various people who were in the NYC area in the 40s and 50s
were apparently of that opinion.
Whatever, Horowitz was a genius at routining. His Ellis Ring and Coin
Box routines are well known -- and I once saw him come into Tannen's
and do a wonderful routine with a trick called Fantastic (it was two
squares of cardboard, one with a magnet, and a shimmed card in a packet
of same). He took this buck trick and made it into a series of
miracles; very impressive.
Msg #3627 Dated 1:47:18 12-07-90 3569 <--> 3653
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
Saw an act in hollywood about 4 months ago called "TRASH" it featured
the magic of steve Trash with Audrey the Bag Lady. He played a homeless
fella who does magic, meets up with Audrey and the go out to save the
world. Empty house which was a shame cause the kids ate it up. good
stuff. The set was an alley. Sorry David.
Msg #3629 Dated 2:12:48 12-07-90 3573 <--> 3633
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
Intesting Things? 20 pages for interesting things to say. Don't you
want just a tad more? You wanna buy some extra issues??? pleeze.
Msg #3632 Dated 8:42:45 12-07-90 -> 3679
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: FINE ART OF MAGIC
I have the Mohammed Bey monographs on the Okito Box,
Jardine Ellis Ring and Stars of Magic..not aware of other
writings except Phoenix, etc stuff..know he was a member of
secret six in New York...always admired his work, especially with
Okito Box as his was first "box" stuff I ran across years
back...running into this kindof thing more and more, but find
that a lot of whats new can be traced back years...have you done
any research on the writing styles of Kaplan and Horowitz? This
is kinda like the Bacon/Shakespeare thing the English lit
scholors were tossing about when I was a college student in the
sixties...in talking to several of the "older" trixters over the
last few months who contributed effects to compendiums, I found
that none were ever compensated for their contributions outside
credit (sometimes) and a copy of the book (sometimes)....most
contribute for the joy of contributing and not for money....looks
like lots of the "pros" steal and because of their visibility
remain somewhat aloof to the process...I admire those who give
credit where credit is due...heard some hushed stories of todays
pros who "borrow" ideas from magi in the "sticks" and then run
with them...just checked "Fine Art.." for cross references to Bey
or Horowitz and find none....a sad commentary....thanks for the
info, I plan to dig deeper if I can find my silver shovel..
Msg #3633 Dated 8:52:40 12-07-90 3629 <--> 3712
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
heh heh...no thanx, Dante...my one subscription issue is just fine.
I am a bit surprised, though, that YOU were so surprised about the
issue...aren't you the editor???
How can an editor of a magazine be surprised at the contents of an
issue???
My first reaction is that perhaps you need to hold the reigns a little
tighter, Dante.
Msg #3634 Dated 10:20:05 12-07-90 -> 3713
From: PETE BIRO
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: SCHEDULE RABBITZ
Dante: I plan to do the Lunch Fri. at the Castle and possibly
THAT same night, hang around the area. If you don't like to go to
work, to hang out, I could zip by your office at home after
lunch. That way I can look at your computer set up. Whatever. I
am wide open. The reason I am coming down to So Cal is I have to
swap company cars. Long drive and I just don't want to do the 600
miles and turn right back! I arrive in the area Tuesday and will
stay at my buddies place in Santa Paula for 2 days, while I do
the car thing. Have to turn mine in in Riverside and pick up the
other car in Gardena! The following Monday, if I am still in
town, will try to catch Leno if he is working at the Comedy Magic
Club in Hermosa, then next AM drive North and home.
Thanks for the nice comments. Hey, I only do this 'cause it
is fun. If I had decided to make a living at this it might be
different. Although my heroes, Fred Kaps, Jay Marshall, Al
Flosso, Roy Benson, Ballantine, Crandall and Ken Brooke put the
art first--ALWAYS!
Msg #3635 Dated 10:21:00 12-07-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: S. LEO
ta -- ALWAYS nice to hear, er see, your comments. Your knowledge
is amazing. Without folks that read and remember the rest of us
would be lost.
You should Hire out to all these dudes writing books to
check the sources and originality....
That effect with two pieces of corrugated cardboard with a
magnet imbedded in one is MIRACLE item. It looks so ungaffed and
innocent.... Dick Zimmerman featured this in his lectures some
years ago and had shimmed playing cards and coins, knocking the
so-called knowledgable guys DEAD.
There is so much good stuff around and the majority of the
performers all do the same six tricks! Hope you enjoy the Kaps
letters when we release them. Should start first of the year and
will be one a week for 15 weeks.
Once I get moved to my final "resting place" -- permanent
location, that is, I will be opening up boxes of files and
letters and hope to see what is interesting enugh to be released.
I have two more really great Jud Cole routines (I can only find
the rapping hand mss. and don't know where the flag and egg is)
and hope to put those out for historic discussion.
I also want to start a MAJOR THREAD of taking STOCK LINES
and re-writing them.
Example: Vernon and I were discussing this one night and he
said, "here's an example. Magicians all say, 'hold out your hand'
-- spectator holds out a hand, magician then says 'NO YOUR CLEAN
ONE' -- this is not only bad taste, but been overdone. Why can't
they say, 'Hmmm... did you have a flat tire coming over here?'"
Same set up, innoffensive reply, still gets a laugh (I know,
I tested it!)
Keep up the good work, adios......
Msg #3637 Dated 10:22:47 12-07-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: I FORGET
Richard: There is also a product used in wherehouses to spray on
cardboard boxes that they wish to stack, that acts just like, and
is a great roughing fluid. My old Pal Ray Newsome discovered this
some years ago.
You are right in that nearly everyone puts on TOO MUCH. It
doesn't take much. Of course the magic shops sell various
formulae for roughing cards. To make 'em super smooth, fanning
powder is really just Zinc Stearate (available in drug stores as
some kind of baby powder).
Msg #3641 Dated 15:24:06 12-07-90 3615 <--> 3643
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: PATRICE MOORE (X)
Re: U
Thanks for the info. Problem is that I am not a member of a local club.
Is that a prerequisite or can I join PCAM alone.
Maybe I will just have to give in and join a club. Ah well, twelve
years as a recluse and a hermit in the world of magic are coming to an
end.
Msg #3643 Dated 17:15:27 12-07-90 3641 <--> 3675
From: PETE BIRO
To: STEVE KUCERA (X)
Re: U
I don't think yoiu hve to BELONG to the PCAM to go to their convention.
You just pays your money and gets your ticket.
Msg #3644 Dated 17:16:05 12-07-90 -> 4038
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: KAPS ON VIDEO
Just saw a video tape featuring several magicians that were seen
on the Ed Sullivan show.
When Fred Kaps came on (he was on the historic show that
featured the Beatles) I have to tell you -- a chill hit me. Even
though it was only a short segment of his act, it was a genuine
thrill.
Msg #3653 Dated 20:52:39 12-07-90 3611 <--> 3659
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
Yes the props are actual tin cans. The way I work it is I use one 2
pound coffee can and one slightly smaller can which no longer has a
label on it. I use these to produce an apple I need in my routine but
with a little imagination, lots of other things could be produced also.
The gimmick is a paper clip which has been straightened out except for
one end which is left at about a 45 degree angle. The straightened out
clip is thrust into the apple leaving an inch or so of the top with the
hook sticking out of the apple. This is then placed inside of the
smaller can with the apple hooked on to the top edge of the can. If
you are working at a table and are standing next to it, the hook is at
the back of the can away from the audiences view. The large can is
then placed over the smaller can and apple.
I SURE WISH I HAD WRITTEN THIS FIRST AND UPLOADED IT SINCE I FORGOT TO
TELL YOU THAT BOTH CANS HAVE THEIR TOP AND BOTTOMS REMOVED MAKING THEM
IN EFFECT, CYLINDERS.
So, you have your apple with the paper clip stuck through it with the
hooked part on top; the apple is inside the smaller can with the hook
suspending it inside and over this the larger can is placed. This is
how I start. I pick up the large can and show it to be empty, looking
at the audience through the can. I set it down on the table IN FRONT
OF the smaller can and say "Since this can doesn't have a top or
bottom, if you put anything inside it will fall right through. As I
say these words I place the smaller can with the apple inside of the
larger can hooking the clip onto the back rim of the larger can. The
apple is now free from the rim of the smaller can and is now hooked on
to the rim of the larger can. I immediately lift off the larger can
with the apple and set it BEHIND the smaller can. I now lift up the
empty smaller can and show it also to be empty with no top or bottom.
I hold the smaller can on the palm of my left hand and place the larger
can over it. My right hand holds both cans by grasping them with my
thumb on the outside and my fingers on the inside of the two cans. I
remove my left hand from underneath, the apple still being suspended.
At the right time I reach up with my left hand and take the apple off
of the hook. If you want you can aid its removal with a bit of a push
with the fingers of the right hand. I haven't included my patter as
this is already long enough! This basic premise could be used for many
small production items. Using the paper clip is especially useful for
fruits such as a card or bill in lemon. Personally, I would rather
produce something out of apparently nothing rather than just pick it up
off the table. I hope someone can find this useful, I know I like it.
Msg #3654 Dated 21:39:23 12-07-90 -> 3687
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: ALL
Re: WOODEN BALL VASES
I saw some previous messages that some of you were looking for a wooden
ball vase.Rabbit in the Hat Ranch has them for 17bucks. They are 4-5
inches tall and look nice. I got one to display along with some other
magic in a curio cabinet at home. RHR got them from Sam Dalal's Magic
in Bombay, India. They are newly made from what looks like mahogany.
The address for RHR can be found in the files section under DEALERS.TXT
or they advertise in most magic magazines. Lest this sound like a
commercial let me say that in my experience most of the stuff that I
have bought has only been of fair quality. On my most recent order
there were a few items of such poor quality (Phantom tube, Wonder box,
Key & Ring effect) that I called to complain. I was surprised to hear
the dealer say to just ship them back! I will let you all know if I get
a refund or only store credit.
Msg #3657 Dated 22:02:36 12-07-90 3587 <--> 3825
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: GENO MUNARI (X)
Re: WHERE IS YOU??
Sorry I couldn't make this one. I look forward to meeting you at Desert
Magic in March.
Msg #3658 Dated 22:03:52 12-07-90 3602 <--> 3689
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: MAGIC POSTERS
IBM meeting where? What time?
Does anyone know of a source for poster reprints or new posters besides
Lee Jacobs?
Msg #3659 Dated 22:06:37 12-07-90 3569 <--> 3665
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
......and if we could just vanish the toxic waste...........
Msg #3660 Dated 22:09:17 12-07-90 -> 3670
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: ALL
Re: BOOK REVIEWS
Does anyone have the following books who could shed some light (review)
on what the contents consist of, and whether they are worth the $.
1.100% Sankey
2.Performance of Close-Up by Eugene Burger
3.Impossibilia by John Bannon
4. Spectacle by Steven Minch
Msg #3663 Dated 23:13:09 12-07-90 3625 <--> 3680
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: ARROWHEAD SPRINGZ
I've seen references to "S. Leo Horowitz" and references to "Sam
Horowitz." One and the same? If so, then we're talking about the guy
who was nice enough to nominate me for I.B.M. membership.
Msg #3665 Dated 23:21:37 12-07-90 3627 <--> 3666
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
Hmmm... You know, this opens up all kinds of possibilites - almost
anything "torn and restored" (cards, rope, etc.) could be "recycled."
I can just see it now - "Ladies and Gentlemen... Watch closely as I run
the signed card thru this garbage disposal..." Replace the cups in
cups and balls with aluminum cans... All sorts of ideas spring to mind.
Msg #3666 Dated 23:25:45 12-07-90 3653 <--> 3667
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
That really does sound good! And the use of the "recycled" cans, with
ordinary household brand names on them, probably lends considerable
verisimilitude to the effect.
Msg #3667 Dated 23:28:15 12-07-90 3659 <--> 3714
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
Hey! After almost TWENTY YEARS of looking, I finally found a video of
Godzilla vs. The Smog Monster!
Msg #3670 Dated 23:42:04 12-07-90 3660 <--> 3830
From: RICHARD HART
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: BOOK REVIEWS
Re: Book Reviews.
There are many great books out there. Much wisdom and creativity.
But if you're interested in close-up magic with cards, coins, and
a cup or three, and really want to invest your money wisely, I suggest
purchasing John Bannon's "IMPOSSIBILIA". This book would be a steal at
10 times the price.
Oh sure, you'll end up doing many of these effects. They're true
"killers", very concise, visual magic.
But the true value of this book is the insight you'll get from
seeing how the mind of a true master works. Bannon is such a master.
Not only does he explain HOW to do the routines, but more importantly,
WHY he does the moves. And that, is magic of the highest order.
On a scale of 1 to 10, this book gets an enthusiastic "10!"
(A word of warning: This book is NOT for the beginner. You'll
need to know your way around an Elmsley count, half-passes and
the like. But if the mention of a D.R.E.D. count doesn't send
you running for cover, then this book is for you.)
Msg #3675 Dated 0:42:49 12-08-90 3643 <-
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: U
Thanks Pete I propably will go in June if schedules permit. I have
never been to a magicians convention and I am curious what they are
like.
Msg #3677 Dated 0:44:02 12-08-90
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: NEW THREAD
Pete,
A thread devoted to re-writing lines is a great idea. I did
a Lions Club Convention tonite and I tried the flat tire
line. Your right, it did get a laugh ( not a huge laugh of
course, but a warmhearted chuckle ). It works better than the
older line because it causes the audience to develop a mental
picture on their own.
When I was in high school emcee'ing the talent night I was
preparing to do the linking rings. I said this trick was
invented by the ancient chinese and at that instant one of
the speakers cut loose with the most horrid, shrieking
feedback. I looked right at the speaker and said " there's
one of the little guys now ". The audience roared and so did
I because we all had a mental picture of some little chinese
guy yelling his brains out.
I have taken your idea and gone through my whole act. Every
line that could be interpreted as giving someone a hard time
is being re-examined and possibly re-written. The good news
is , the new and less harsh versions are a hell of a lot
funnier.
Msg #3678 Dated 0:45:32 12-08-90 -> 3681
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: ALL
Re: BOOKS
Can anyone recommend a good book on quick change
costumes and techniques? I would like to add a quick change
to a number I am working on. Thanks.
I would also like to know of any books on the technical side
of theatre arts especially ones that pertain to magic.I am
talking about lighting, backdrops, special visual effects
and even info about touring.
I am also always on the lookout for any magic book that
doesn't teach new tricks but rather focuses on showmanship,
performance theory, marketing and the like.
Looking forward to many excellent suggestions.
Msg #3679 Dated 0:58:00 12-08-90 3632 <-
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FINE ART OF MAGIC
I think it is pretty clear that Kaplan WROTE the book (Fine Art Of
Magic)...it's just a question of where he got some of the material. I
believe that Horowitz never made any public noise about it, but others
were upset in his behalf. Ah well.
Msg #3680 Dated 1:02:31 12-08-90 3663 <--> 3729
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: ARROWHEAD SPRINGZ
Well -- S. Leo Horowitz was in fact known as Sam Horowitz to many --
but that may not be an unusual name so it coulda been another guy.
Msg #3681 Dated 1:04:02 12-08-90 3678 <--> 3745
From: T A WATERS
To: STEVE KUCERA (X)
Re: BOOKS
Don't know of any books offhand, but there was a nice series on protean
work (as it is called) back in the 60s in Abra.
Msg #3683 Dated 1:19:25 12-08-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: WITCH DOCTORS
We know that the cups and balls go back to at least the ancient
Egyptians, based on decorations on the walls of tombs, etc. But has
anyone ever published any material on the moves, slights, props, etc.
of primitive magicians? Witch doctors, etc.?
Msg #3685 Dated 6:10:34 12-08-90 -> 3715
From: RICK RUHL
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: ON A MORE HAPPIER NOTE...
OK Dante, I have begun work on some articles for 'The Magic of
Computers'. Guess you editors like them double spaced ASCII? Hopefully
they'll be done after the 1st of the year.
Let me make a comment about GENII mag while I'm on here. I have been
reading it on and off since 1980. No matter how late or how much
the cover date was out of sync with the month, it was always good.
(plus the face it has hung around for a LONG time, through recession,
high inflations, a couple wars...heeh).
Rick
Msg #3686 Dated 7:13:24 12-08-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: 100% BOOKMAN
Hey Burt, I'm finally mailing out that matchbox stuff...sorry so
long, just haven't gone to town ina wile. I'm curious about the
E. Burger Closeup book too. I've got his SPIRIT THEATER and am
thrilled with it, though his earlier paperbounds didn't do a
whole lot for me. Got the 100% SANKEY book last week and wrote it
up (sorta) about 200 msg back...If you can see his lecture, you'd
probably buy the book...I did, but if I had just looked at the
book without the lecture, probably wouldn't have. The best two
effects in the book (my opinion) can be found other places...TRIO
with a stapled card sandwich ala Paul Harris is good as is the
folded up card effect which is an adaptation on the Mercury Card
Fold outof Expert Card Technique....See a Sankey lecture if you
can...his lecture notes (10smackers) is good also if you see the
lecture......that was me inquiring about wooden ball vases and
appreciate the info.........I saw Santa Clause the other day and
he told me you had been a good boy this year (he was in my woods
gathering switches for all the bad boys)...Looked at those other
two books over at Howie's Shop with Charlie Randall and passed on
them....you should take a look for yourself since my interests
are different from yours......Why not do what all those guys
who're writing on the edge do....refer back to the classics of
the thirties, forties, and fifties..... One of DOC EASONs
strongest effects is based on a routine outa Fine Art of Magic..
The Aspen Bar Issue of MAJ is excellent and I understand Doc's
work will be featured in GENII sometime late 1991.....BEST
WISHES....for the HOLIDAZE.....inadaze, tabman.......
Msg #3687 Dated 9:28:34 12-08-90 3654 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: WOODEN BALL VASES
Y'know, Burt, I had the same experience. I've ordered from them
several times with quasi-acceptable results. When I received the last
order from them, I was really disappointed in the quality and also
phoned them to complain. I was told very nicely to simply send the
merchandise back. No problem. In fact, I also received a phone call
from the owner the next day. He was very nice and apologized for any
inconvenience! What a difference between Rabbit-In-The-Hat-Ranch and
Louis Tannen!!! Tannen's has seen the last of my business. They are
difficult to deal with if there is ever a problem with a purchase...and
beyond that, they are downright RUDE! Tony Spina should sell that
company to someone who could run it more in the Tannen tradition!
Msg #3689 Dated 9:42:32 12-08-90 3658 <--> 3693
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: MAGIC POSTERS
Burt...check the files section...Thursday night at Wattles Mansion.
Msg #3691 Dated 10:57:09 12-08-90
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: ALL
Re: TRIP
Hey, I'm back from my trip to Balitmore. Had a great time, got to meet
Tabby and Howie. When I get a chance I'll throw out some more details of
my trip. Someone mentioned thumb tips - a favorite subject of mine.
I'll upload a reference list when I get a chance. There are quite a
few books that deal with thumb tips and some that have some really good
sections on thumb tips and handling. That's all for now, it's going to
take me a day or two to read all the messages from the last week!
Charlie
Msg #3692 Dated 11:31:44 12-08-90
From: T A WATERS
To: ALL
Re: LARSENS
'd like all of you to know about something very nice that has just
happened. It started about six years ago, when I took a full page ad
in GENII for some of my books; due to various factors, the ad didn't
run until many months later, when the stuff was no longer available --
so I wasn't too happy. At that point Bill Larsen very kindly offered
to run a replacement ad at no addition charge whenever I wanted.
Up to now, I haven't had anything to market -- but as some of you
know, I have just come out with a new video. It had been a long time
since Bill had made the offer -- and he certainly had no legal
obligation to run the replacement ad -- but when I asked him about it
he said yes without hesitation, and Dante has just run the ad in the
December issue that's in the mail now.
So -- you knew this already -- but I thought you should know again
that in Bill and Dante Larsen you've got a couple of very classy guys.
Magic is not, unfortunately, a field in which ethical and responsible
behavior is the norm -- but as long as there are people like the
Larsens around, there's hope. Thank you, gentlemen.
Msg #3693 Dated 11:48:30 12-08-90 3658 <-
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: MAGIC POSTERS
Here is an Electronic Copy of the FLEMING FLASHPAPER.
THE FLEMING FLASHPAPER
DECEMBER 1990 Edition
NEXT MEETING DEC 13TH!!!!!!
Due to the filming of a movie at the Wattles Mansion on December 6th,
our meeting has been moved one week to Thursday, December 13th. Please
mark you calendars.
--------------------------------------------------------------
Our next meeting will be held on December 13, 1990 beginning at 8:00
p.m. at the Wattles Mansion. The Wattles Mansion is located at 1824 N.
Curson in Hollywood. The doors will open at 7:00 p.m. for an hour of
camaraderie and Christmas spirit (that's spirit not Spirits, okay).
Darrell Murphy will bring a video tape of the highlights of the last
year's meetings and performances.
At the business meeting, we will be discussing a few proposals for our
Ring to consider which will require discussion and voting. Please try
to attend.
Following the meeting we will have two lectures. The first will be
from Greg Yaitanes of Fugitive Guy Productions. Greg produces video
tape demos for magicians and others. He will discuss the hows, whys
and costs of a video, and will show a few samples of his work. Members
with videos are encouraged to bring them along.
Our second lecture will be Dennis Marks. His topic will be "MAGIC ON
TV". He will discuss how to break into the magic on TV arena, the
pitfalls of working in a studiom, and how to make your act angle
proof.
THIS IS AN OPEN MEETING. THERE WILL BE NO CHARGE FOR GUESTS!!!!!!
--------------------------------------------------------------
ATTENTION "POLLYANNA" TIME
IBM RING 21 would like to have a gift exchange at the December
meeting. Gifts should be between $5.00 and $15.00 and wrapped. At the
meeting you will be given a number. All gifts will be collected and
then distributed in numerical order.
===================================================================
A NOTE FROM DARRELL:
If you need more information or would like to be a guest lecturer at
RING 21 write to me on the the MAGIC! BBS, CompuServe #: 75046,3200
or you can call RING 21 Phone (213) 660-2998 and talk to Joe Selph.
Tell him where you read this!!!!!!
Msg #3694 Dated 11:55:11 12-08-90 3613 <-
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: PATRICE MOORE (X)
Re: ABBOT'S
THANKS I SURE NEEDED THAT ADDRESS "JUST ONE MORE TIME"!!!! I think the
SYOP should make up a special file with just the ABBOTT,s address
Thread. This way if someone EVER ask for ABBOTT'S address again we can
just refer them to the File. Imagine when he goes to print it out and
finds it to be 200 pages long!!! HAHAHAHA
Msg #3696 Dated 12:17:51 12-08-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SECRET
Tabmandoo (Isn't that where the mystics reside?)?
Er, lesse... Nail Writers. I just happen to have the REAL
STUFF HERE IN THE FILE AT MY LEFT...
"TIPS ON NAIL WRITERS" by Conrad Haden. Connie was "the"
mechanic of the 40s and 50s. He made Channing Pollack's Vanishing
Birdcage (the big one all the doves are in, you toss a cloth over
it and Poof, cage and all doves GONE). He made MUCH of the
exclusive special stuff Himber sold. He made secret gambling
devices (I bought the Last Arm Pressure Holdouts (2) that he ever
made when I visited him years ago in Ormond Beach, Florida) and
is (was) still is, the UNDISPUTED best maker and inventor of
gaffed coins. And made the best nail writers.
The doc is very long, but here are some excerpts:
"Nail writers are made in many styles. I make over twenty items,
which include the following types: -- Clip, Under-nail, Band,
Holdout and Thumb-tip. These are usually equipped with standard
size black lead, for which refills are obtainable in any
stationery store.
They are also made "Deluxe" which produce bold dark writing
for which special leads are necessary. This De Luxe type may be
fitted with Black, Red, Blue or Green leads. The Band De Luxe is
also made in a "Two Color" writer to write in any two colors
desired. In addition, the Band style is made to write in CHALK or
in INK to match your fountain pen.
If you have average length thumb nails the Clip type and
Under-nail type writers are suitable. If nails are very long or
bitten off short, the Band or Ring type should be used.
The performer should not be afraid or conscious of the
writer when attached as it is practically invisible. Do not try
to keep concealed as your lay audience knows nothing of this
gimmick and their attention should not be drawn to it.
The CLIP style has the advantage of being very small. The
disadvantage of not being any too secure and most likely to be
lost.
The Under-Nail style is same general construction as CLIP
with the addition of a half moon shape which makes this type more
secure and steady in use.
The BAND type would be similar to a skeleton thumb tip. It
has the advantage of being able to get set with it at any time.
(Tab... it goes on and on... but no mention of the BOON type, and
I know Connie tried just about every imaginable form, so he
probably didn't make that type because it was too hard to work
with. I found that it was a lot harder (almost impossible) for me
to write with anything flat along the fleshy part of the thumb
but I could write better with the thumb bent, using a nail-type
writer.
There's nothing more in the lengthy mss. that would add to
what you ask, and something has just come up and I got to get
going. Adios for now.
Msg #3697 Dated 12:19:02 12-08-90 -> 3746
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: PRODUCTION ITEM!
Stan: I always believe in economy of movement and so forth. Why
not FIRST produce the Paper Clip!
Msg #3698 Dated 12:19:43 12-08-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: ZIPPER
Jim: Will downoad the TORNZipper later and letcha know.
Msg #3699 Dated 12:20:13 12-08-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: STEVE KUCERA (X)
Re: YUP
Steve: You've never been to a convention... GO MAN GO. The main
thing is the PEOPLE you meet, the ideas, the friendships. The
shows, etc. are secondary.
Glad you tried the NEW VERSIONS OF OLD LINES THINKING. It is
the way to go!
Anybody else working on this?
Msg #3700 Dated 12:20:47 12-08-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: THIEVES
Wayne: I wish I had access to some of the articles I wrote 15
years ago about Tannen and Spina. Ken Brooke had much to say to.
One of these days I will hit y'all with my philosophy (for what
its worth?) about dealers, etc.
The thing that killed Ken was the overt and OPEN stealing.
Ken was terribly hurt by this. And Spina once sent me a letter
responding to an article I wrote telling HIS SIDE. I just
reprinted his letter verbatim--because his letter actually
reinforced THE OTHER SIDE STORY BETTER. He didn't even realize
it! The ONLY article I ever had censored by Genii was ONE about
Tannen/Spina. Wish I had a copy of it, I would post it here.
More some day!
Msg #3703 Dated 14:20:01 12-08-90 -> 3740
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: TANNENZ
I used to buy a few books from Tannens but the last time
I called they put me on hold for 25 minutes - I stayed on line
cause it was their 800 number - I was calling to check on a 200
dollar book order I'd faxed them about three weeks back....rude
and don't really seem to care...tells me they don't really need
my business..theres plenty of really nice, competent people to
deal with (many right here on MAGIC!) so HEY.....they ended up
shipping me only one book and back ordering the rest which I
promptly cancelled...Hank Lee'll backorder you for months if you
let him get away with it, but I've gotta say this for HL, when
you fax him an order and specify NO BACK ORDERS he'll ship the
stuff right out and the UPS man (woman) is here in a coupla daze
and they're always great on the phone.........looking forward to
the poster list when it comes out....tabman.....
Msg #3705 Dated 15:30:56 12-08-90 -> 3707
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: DON'T GET ME ON
Don't get me on the subject of that big N.Y. Magic Store! I could be
sued a million times if I say what I want to.... Grrrrrr.
Msg #3707 Dated 16:09:13 12-08-90 3705 <--> 3741
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DON'T GET ME ON
Don't do it!!!!
Msg #3708 Dated 16:09:35 12-08-90 -> 3716
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: THUMB TAX
Yeay, the BOON almost turned me off to Nailwriters..I
thought it was me and I bought several of them too...oh well,
when you're a mountain man like me you don't get into town very
much - usually when esteemed visitors from MAGIC! get close
enough to have a Meyers Rum and Coke with...I will be in
Manhattan next Wednesday though cuz one of my groups is
showcasing for the big dogs ... keep yer finger crossed for us.
Corrinda lists about 20 different types of writers the
BOOB sorry BOON being one of them....I fell for the write up in
the catalog as being the best, newest (I thought about it for
five years - I'm slow, what can I say) and put down my quarter
and gave it a shot. Guess I can use em as thumbtax if I'm ever
really hardup.
The undernail moon clip is my fave. Easy to attach with
your hand in your pocket and easy to ditch the same way. I once
wore one for a week. It took me three days to get to the point
where I wasn't looking at it alot. Then another day to control
the glancing at it. Since seeing the Indian mystic use one on the
Bangkok streets, I know its possible to fool the pants off
somebody - literally and figuratively - he never directed any
attention towards his thumb and held the pad in a mystical manner
(the turban helped) about 12 inches to the right of his face. He
talked the entire time and kept your attention directed.....the
effect was wonderful and I almost paid him the 10bucks he wanted
to tell my future...til my friends dragged me screaming down the
street to a pleasure palace....where I stopped screaming..
Glad to see the interest in book reviews here on MAGIC!
The reviews in GENII have influenced many of my decisions to buy
or not to buy. The Steinmeyer JARRETT book was bought after
reading one of your REEL WORKS where you talked about same. Do
you still have the original Jarrett?? Love to see it sometime.
I'd recommend this book to anyone along with ILLUSION BUILDER TO
FU MANCHU, JACK GWYNNE, TITANIC THOMPSON, AMEDEO'S CONTINENTAL
MAGIC, WALTER JEANS ILLUSIONEER, OKITO ON MAGIC.....as far as
cards are concerned I'd love to see a review of PAUL LE PAULS
CARD MAGIC sometime (I know its over 40 years old but so am I).
Not feeling very crazy today, guess its the horse
tranquilizers my wife brought home from the vets for our poodle,
Fifi.......yeah, the moon shot on the 49ers game was spectacular,
about the only gasp for the night....the Raiders play monday
night and I'm off.........I like to read magic books and watch
football on tv at the sametime...is that wierd or what....Had a
lot of fun with THE WIZARD EXPOSED.....wonder if Houdini had a
ghost writer..........your friend.....tabman......ps, whats your
fax#, I wanna fax you somethin.........
Msg #3709 Dated 16:11:36 12-08-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: GREEN BOOK
Charlie, Charlie, Charlie...what can I say..had a great time visiting
with you the other night....don't forget to check on the Cliff Green
book for me.....more later....tabman...
Msg #3710 Dated 16:26:22 12-08-90
From: JONATHAN KAUFTHAL
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: GOOD CATALOGS
Thanks for the suggestion. I already subscribed between when
I wrote the message and your reply. You're right, though, It it
a very good catalog. Thanks
---JK
Msg #3712 Dated 18:24:52 12-08-90 3633 <--> 3726
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
True. My fautlt.
Msg #3713 Dated 18:26:41 12-08-90 3634 <--> 3717
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SCHEDULE RABBITZ
The office is at Bills house. I'm OUTTA there at Five. Will probably
see you at Friday Lunch. Which Friday was that?
Msg #3714 Dated 18:33:17 12-08-90 3667 <--> 3722
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
I just found a poster of that movie.
Msg #3715 Dated 18:37:37 12-08-90 3685 <-
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: ON A MORE HAPPIER NOTE...
Single spaced is good. Looking forward to the articles.
Msg #3716 Dated 18:47:32 12-08-90 3708 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: THUMB TAX
FAX 707 884 4425 SAME NO AS PHONE. WILL BE SPLITTING 9 AM CALIF TIME
SUNDAY GONE FOR 9 DAYS
MOON SHOT WAS A KEEPER
MY BABYSITTER WHEN I WSA 2 YEARS OLD HAD A FATHER THAT OWNED RAIDERS.
Great sentence structure.
eh
Msg #3717 Dated 18:48:57 12-08-90 3713 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: SCHEDULE RABBITZ
I'll phone ya
Msg #3719 Dated 19:24:43 12-08-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: STEVE KUCERA (X)
Re: MAGIC LIFE AND STAGECRAFT
Hi Steve, tabman here...been reading your stuff but never
sed hello. My mom and sis are in your neck of woods so we're
cousins, huh??? Where does this guy get off, I don't know?? You
were asking about books...see if you can get an issue of the New
York Village Voice, theres a theatrical book seller who adv in
there that sells all manner of books on theatre, on CIS in the
Broadcast Professional Forum (GO BPFORUM) check under Technical
Theater, call Mix Magazine Bookshelf 415-653-3307 and ask for
copy of book catalog...lotz of books on technical side of
stagecraft...read by Jason Randall PSYCHOLOGY OF DECEPTION, by
Frances Ireland YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE CRAZY, By Hofsinger (xlated
by R. Hatch) MAGIC OF J.N. HOFSINGER (holler at Charlie Randall
here on MAGIC!), ILLUSION SHOW by Fu ManChu (Dave Bamberg), if
you can find a copy of STREET MAGIC get it.....THE GREAT
ILLUSIONISTS by Dawes..OKITO ON MAGIC (first half is philosophy
of Theo. Bamberg)...RIDDLE OF CHUNG LING SOO gives insight into a
personality who changed his entire life to fit his image of a
commercial act.....this oughta keep you busy for a while...Warner
Bros. Books usta pub a book called BOOK OF THE ROAD...THE MASTER
MAGICIANS by W. Gibson is insightful...MASKELYNE ON THE
PERFORMANCE OF MAGIC.....get vol I,II,III of Jay marshall's
SUCCESS BOOKS......I could go on and on, but I won't...you're
welcome (for not going on and on)............tabman...
ps...Mark Tripps GENII column might helpya too....over n out..
Msg #3720 Dated 20:22:07 12-08-90 -> 3798
From: JONATHAN KAUFTHAL
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: IBM SIGNATURE
I got the application back the other day & Filled it out.
Anyway, It's in the mail. Thanks
Msg #3722 Dated 21:42:31 12-08-90 3714 <--> 3744
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
Are you kidding me??? Next to Bambi Meets Godzilla, that is one of my
all time favorite movies. Any chance you want to part with that
poster???
Msg #3724 Dated 22:43:08 12-08-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: WELCOME BACK
Hi, Max. Good to see you back. Hope your trip went well. While you
were gone we "packaged" messages 2500 - 2999 into MAGIC-06.TXT. If
there were messages specifically addressed to you, either public or
private, we tried to make sure to leave them in the message area. It
is our policy to try to do that will messages that haven't been
received yet. You may, however, want to download MAGIC-06.TXT or
MAGIC-06.ZIP if you wish to read all of the other messages.
Also, of course, if you wish to share any info from your trip, I'm sure
we are interested.
Msg #3726 Dated 22:59:46 12-08-90 -> 3742
From: MAX MAVEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
Please don't confuse the copyright statement in my book with the recent
Cervon controversy. Stephen Minch's paragraph refers only to standard
reservation of rights concerning reproduction of the written material
and illustrations. "Utilization" here means, for instance, the idea of
photocopying several tricks and passing them out at a club meeting.
There are no performance restrictions attached to the material in Focus
whatsoever. My attitude has always been that when I publish something,
by so doing I am granting unrestricted performing rights to whoever has
obtained that material legitimately.
Msg #3727 Dated 23:22:07 12-08-90 3523 <--> 3794
From: MAX MAVEN
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SIXTH FINGER
Karrell Fox has beaten you to the punch on the gag of doing the
standard cigarette in handkerchief, then handing out the [pristine]
thumbtip with the query, "Now, what exactly am I supposed to do with
this?"
Msg #3729 Dated 23:32:22 12-08-90 3625 <--> 3730
From: MAX MAVEN
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: ARROWHEAD SPRINGZ
There is also much uncredited Vernon in the Kaplan book.
Msg #3730 Dated 23:33:27 12-08-90 3680 <--> 3734
From: MAX MAVEN
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: ARROWHEAD SPRINGZ
I would guess the Sam Horowitz who endorsed you for IBM was the husband
of past-President June Horowitz -- no relation to S. Leo Horowitz.
Msg #3734 Dated 23:38:01 12-08-90 3730 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: ARROWHEAD SPRINGZ
Yes, Sam Horowitz of "Sam and Judith Horowitz" is the Sam Horowitz I
was thinking of. Thanks for clarifying that that Sam Horowitz isn't
"S. Leo Horowitz."
Msg #3735 Dated 0:07:58 12-09-90
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: TOKYO
Back from Japan, where I attended several magic events. I'll write it
up for _Genii_ in the next day or two, and drop it off at the Castle.
Msg #3740 Dated 1:53:23 12-09-90 3703 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TANNENZ
I couldn't agree more. I got into a "spirited discussion" (who me?)
with Tony Spina several months ago about price differences from his
most recent catalogue. When you PAY for a dealer's catalogue and you
place an order for merchandise within 24 hours from the time you
received the catalogue...I don't know....call me silly...there is an
expectation that the prices are NOT going to be 20 to 40 percent
higher...and there is an expectation that, if there is a price change,
the customer would be told on the phone at the time the order is
placed...NOT find out when the invoice arrives with the shipment with
the surprise prices already charged to your credit card!
ONE NOTE OF INTEREST: I recently had a problem with some merchandise
I received from ABBOTT'S...(by the way, does anyone know their current
address? NO>>>>STOP!>>>>JUST KIDDING! Anyway, Abbott's couldn't have
been nicer or more accomodating regarding the return of problem items.
Just thought I'd pass that on to you.
Msg #3741 Dated 2:02:03 12-09-90 3707 <--> 3795
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: DON'T GET ME ON
AWWWWWW....GO AHEAD!!! YOU CAN'T BE SUED FOR TELLING THE TRUTH!
Msg #3742 Dated 2:04:38 12-09-90 3712 <--> 3743
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
Didn't mean to point the finger at you, Dante...I was just curious.
For the record, I am a VERY happy subscriber. GENII and INSIDE MAGIC
are the best general magic publications around...and they complement
each other very well, too. MAGIC MANUSCRIPT is no big loss...(don't
get me started on Tannen's again!)...NEW TOPS is hit and miss, but they
do try. I sure do wish that Michael Ammar was still putting out MAJ!!!
Msg #3743 Dated 2:09:53 12-09-90 3726 <--> 3755
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
That sure is refreshing, Phil. Now if you could only get Cervon in a
corner and explain it to him!
I must have at least 50 of your packet card tricks from over the
years...(wow...can it really be that many?) Do any of the effects that
you've previously released in packet form include revisions,
variations, alternate handling, etc?
Msg #3744 Dated 8:50:52 12-09-90 3666 <--> 3748
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
You know that's an angle I never really thought about. When a magician
uses chrome plated tubes and mysterious boxes and contraptions the
audience may be more in awe of the props than the magician. They
rightly assume that these things will makes something wondrous happen.
I think you may surprise people more in some instances when the magic
is performed with obviously everyday ordinary items, and used tin cans
are very everyday, ordinary items.
Msg #3745 Dated 8:57:01 12-09-90 3678 <--> 3747
From: STAN LAKE
To: STEVE KUCERA (X)
Re: BOOKS
For the theatrical side of magic I can give you an excellent source of
information to lead you in the right direction. Her name is Lesley
Manning and her area of expertise is in the theater. She wrote an
article in the November 1990 issue of the linking ring. She can be
reached at 7347 Haskell #211 in Vany Nuys, CA 91406. (818) 780-0885.
I spoke with her just last night and saw her perform at the Castle.
She is very nice and very helpful. She could tell you about any and
all books on the subject.
Msg #3746 Dated 9:06:09 12-09-90 3697 <-
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: PRODUCTION ITEM!
I guess if you had the paper clip in a thumb tip you could pour some
metalic powder into it and produce the paper clip. BUT, they aren't
supposed to know there is a paper clip so you are only entertaining
yourself! Now, I suppose you could sleeve both of the cans, one on
each arm since they are cylinders but then you have to load the can
with the apple. So where does the apple come from? Well, if you had
two MORE cans... Aw, forget it!
Msg #3747 Dated 10:08:53 12-09-90 3745 <--> 3766
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: BOOKS
I thought I saw all the scheduled acts this week at the castle...what
room did she perform in?
Msg #3748 Dated 11:02:09 12-09-90 3744 <--> 3754
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
I think it would be interesting to see the difference. There is a
"down" side to using ordinary props though. The audience may think,
"Gee, this poor guy can't even afford "real magician's" props"!
But a couple of terrific effects done with "ordinary" items could be a
real mind blower and could put more of the focus on the magician than
on the props.
Msg #3750 Dated 12:27:28 12-09-90 -> 3760
From: HOWARD SCHWARZMAN
To: ALL
Re: MORE STUFF
I've uploaded another Howie's Mini Magic Catalogue ASCII text file
for anyone interested in some new magic. Many thanks for your
response to the previous catalogue. Best Regards, Howie.
Msg #3751 Dated 12:56:14 12-09-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: RICHARD STREET
Re: MUSIC CITY MAGIC
Hi Richard...we're gonna try to start our move to Tn
within the next six months...timing is somewhat out of our hands
cuz we have to find a buyer for Springhill Plantation before we
can relocate...What is the magic lecture scene in Music City now?
How many a year and who..How many people come out for the
lectures? I might wanna try to bring some lectures or have a
conclave of some sort if there is room for it in town. I belong
to the S.A.M. Is there an active assembly?
How did Jay Sankey do when he was there? I think he has
an excellent lecture and appreciated his business like, yet
friendly attitude........did you get his new book? I've got it
now, but wish I'd gotten the notes also now that I think about
it.........tabman..
Msg #3754 Dated 15:27:47 12-09-90 3748 <--> 3758
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
Saw somebody do a chop cup type routine (Michael Ammar)
with a can of beenie weenies. He used the can with the top on and
the bws inside. He popped a plastic snap off lid off the "empty"
can and "poured" a ball out and let fly. The clincher comes when
the audience finds out hes been working with a full can the
entire time....I liked it anyway....Course, Michael is a classy
guy, has a nice haircut, great smile, lots of talent, natural
humor, dresses nicely....I think the routine is in ENCORE 3
published by Secret Service...understand he's coming on MAGIC!
next year...theres a guy who has taken the talent given him and
developed it to a fine degree. He said he was palming a card in
the GENII cover photo recently taken across the big pond in
Russia...check it out. Michael uses common props, but the dollar
bills are crisp, the wine bottle is clean and in good condition
and the silk pocket square is pressed....
The esteemed, Albert Goshman (by the way, any word on his
state) has built a career with common objects like coins and salt
and pepper shakers, a highball glass...of course, the little
sponges are the most magical looking, out of the ordinary objects
going....Max Malini made miracles with a spoon and Amedeo Vacca's
study with a common box of matches spawned a whole generation of
animated matchboxes. The magic isn't in the props, but within the
heart of the magician....course, a clean shirt and fingernails
help unless you're performing for animals, but they can't follow
much past a french drop anyway........Stage magic is a different
story, however. Here the builders and mechanics art come into
play...the set makes the show given the performers talent,
timing, appearance, etc, etc, is up to par. Now lighting and
stage direction play an important part. I'd like to see more
theatrix brought into the area of close up such as specialized
lighting and sound. Then the surface the close up worker uses
becomes a mineature stage where the spectator becomes part of the
act.......I could go on, and will some other time. Its C O L D
down here in the dining room...my fingers are turing numb and I
wanna go finish watching the Redskins game. Best ever....your
friend....tabman...
Msg #3755 Dated 17:57:57 12-09-90 3743 <--> 3770
From: MAX MAVEN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
By your question I guess you mean, are there alternate handlings in the
FOCUS re-writes. The answer is yes, but only in a very few instances.
However, each effect was re-described, hopefully upgrading the ease of
understanding for the reader, and also the book contains 2-1/2 items
previously unpublished. (The "1/2" is "Shinkansen," which has only been
in lectures prior to this.)
Msg #3756 Dated 18:45:17 12-09-90
From: MAX MAVEN
To: JEFF BUSBY (X)
Re: BLOOM PINS
By all means, send me a set of the Bloom Pins for review. His thinking
is terrific on this, but it's been a long time since I saw him do it
and I don't recall the quality of the instructions at that time -- and
I assume you've revised them. So do send a set. As I think you know,
the policy I use with the column is not an attempt to cover everything
that appears on the market; instead, I limit reviews to items which I
think are worthy of the potential buyer's attention. As you can
imagine, sometimes there's not much to write about...
Msg #3758 Dated 19:57:41 12-09-90 3754 <--> 3763
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
Yes, Amar does a lot with "ordinary" props. And yes, he is pretty
terrific. Any guy who would spend six months making sure the hankie
moves "naturally" when the wine bottle is revealed has got to be pretty
special. Michael has been reading MAGIC! printouts for some time and
he assured me that after the holidays he would be getting a modem and
joining us. Hope he'll be here in time for the start of the big
surprise that Biro and I are planning - it's gonna be great and MAGIC!
members are gonna love it.
I SAW AL GOSHMAN on Friday. He was at the Castle for lunch. He was
with some people and I was with some people, so we didn't get to talk,
but I'm still hoping to get him on here. He looked a little better to
me, and is certainly holding his own. Yes, his act is incredible. A
master of misdirection, he can sneak a coin under a saltshaker even
when the coin is considerably larger than the saltshaker. Not many
around with that much talent.
On my side of town I just got back from the opera. Aaron Copland's
"The Tender Land." No magic, but the set and the lighting were pretty
good.
Msg #3760 Dated 22:35:21 12-09-90 3750 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: HOWARD SCHWARZMAN (X)
Re: MORE STUFF
Howard Schwarzman's new Mini MAGIC! Catalog is in the files area as
HOWIE-02.TXT. Looks like some good stuff!
Msg #3762 Dated 23:31:58 12-09-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC-07!
The seventh set of MAGIC! messages - #3000 (Nov. 25, 1990) to
#3499 (Dec. 4, 1990) have been transfered to a downloadable
file. The file is named MAGIC-07.TXT. This means that you can
now go to the file area, download that file, and read the seventh
volume of messages off-line. For those who know how to use the
PKUNZIP system for uncompressing files, there is a compressed
version of this same file. It is called MAGIC-07.ZIP and is about
1/2 the size of the full-text version.
This set of messages includes the second portion of the "Penn &
Teller: Don't Try This At Home" discussion, a terrific set of
historic anecdotes contributed by Pete Biro and others, and a
number of excellent tricks.
Not only will transfering these messages to a file make it easier
for you to obtain a complete set of them, but it will make the
search for new messages easier and faster.
Msg #3763 Dated 0:17:33 12-10-90 3722 <--> 3764
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
I'll see if I can get another.
Msg #3764 Dated 1:02:02 12-10-90 3763 <--> 3765
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
Great! I'd appreciate that, Dante. After all, I finally got the
movie!
Msg #3765 Dated 1:55:28 12-10-90 3754 <-
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: RECYCLE YOUR ACT
Just a point -- while Amedeo's matchbox routine was very nice, the
effect was invented by G. W. Hunter.
Msg #3766 Dated 8:10:10 12-10-90 3747 <--> 3771
From: STAN LAKE
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: BOOKS
Wayne- She was in the Palace performing with the Magic Plumbers. She
was nurse Hogaboom (sp?).
Msg #3767 Dated 8:40:39 12-10-90 3360 <-
From: EMORY KIMBROUGH
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PYRO
I don't have a FAX number for Magic Hands, but I suggest you try
Stevens Magic Emporium in Wichita Kansas. Voice phone is (316) 683-9582
or 683-5861. The air-gun trick has been advertised in their catalogs,
and they stock a lot of Magic Hands products. I saw Manfred Thumm
demonstrate several of the routines that are included with this
effect when he lectured to the Montgomery, AL, IBM ring a few years
back. I was impressed by the trick.
Here's a weird, weird coincidence for you: Halfway into typing in
this
message about Stevens, the UPS man knocked at my door with a package
from Stevens!
Msg #3768 Dated 8:46:22 12-10-90
From: EMORY KIMBROUGH
To: ALL
Re: CONFERENCE
A reminder to all of you who have CompuServe ID's: The first
conference of the revived CompuServe magic group will be this Tuesday,
December 11, beginning at 10:00 Eastern time. It'll be in Room 6,
Magicians Only, of the Science/Math Forum on CompuServe. Contact me
here or on CompuServe at 72777,1553 if you need more information
about the conference.
If you haven't checked out the message board, do so when you come
for the conference. It's taking off rather well.
Msg #3769 Dated 9:46:38 12-10-90 -> 3784
From: DAVID LUTHER
To: ALL
Re: LOOKING FOR BOOK
One of the past-presidents of Ring 60 in Austin asked if I would put
a notice online for him. He called Richard Hatch too late to get
the copy H & R had in their for sale list (he should be on Magic! and
get a chance to "preview" their items so next time it will not be
already gone before he calls). He is looking for "The Best in Magic",
published 1956, hardbound, 246 pages, by Bruce Elliott. If anyone has
or knows of one for sale at reasonable price please leave me a message
with infomation. Thanks.
Msg #3770 Dated 10:04:55 12-10-90 3755 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: ATTACK RABBITZ
By your answer I guess you mean yes.
Thanks.
Msg #3771 Dated 10:06:54 12-10-90 3766 <--> 3800
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: BOOKS
Ahhhhhh....yes!
Instead of Nurse Hogaboom, they should have named her "Miss Direction!"
Msg #3772 Dated 10:11:18 12-10-90
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: WELLL????
Here it is Monday morning and nobody has reported on the Las Vegas
close-up extravaganza yet!!!
Perhaps the Magic! members who did attend the Vegas event also attended
the craps tables and are now busy pawning their modems!!!
Msg #3773 Dated 10:31:44 12-10-90 -> 3780
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: RED SNAPPERZ
I looked Mr. Hunter up and I find he was also the
credited originator for the red snapper which is kind of a cool
thing. My grandad had one and tried to fool me with it, but I was
a step ahead of him at this point and when I "hooked it and
snapped it back" first he was speechless then he laughed...me
too...think I was about 13 at the time....
Was reading Expert Card Technique last night with special
attention to the Mercury Card Trick and find Al Goshmans Card in
Purse with the alternate palm back out fold...there goes another
illusion....but thats the purpose of a book of tricks, isn't
it..to learn effects and taylor them to your own way of
performing....I can imagine a carpenter building a stairway and
before cutting a riser giving credit to the first man to use a
saw and all those variations in between before arriving at the
three finger back blade technique. They don't care for the most
part...just building a house...
I didn't mean to imply that Amedeo invented the Acrobatic
Match Box (though I must admit, I thought he probably did)..his
was the first I was exposed to in his wonderful book by Frank
Garcia and Goe. Schindler. I made one up and when I saw the looks
of wonder on the faces of observers to the feat, I kept one
hooked up for years. I would take it out a dupe couple of times
to light a smoke and then when the time was right....I guess I'll
have to "invent" The Acrobatic Lighter or how about a watch that
unclasps itself and crawls into your palm...Willie, The Animated
Wristwatch.......
How bout a book tracing the originations of all the good
tricks in use today?? Would be interesting reading, and I would
imagine a big seller in the magic community and be a great
resource for students and writers in the magical arts....I'll buy
one....gotta be complete, though....maybe theres something out
there like this already, but I just don't know about it...Cheers.
Msg #3775 Dated 12:43:55 12-10-90 -> 3786
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: IMPOSSIBLE SPREAD
IMPOSSIBLE SPREAD
I'm probably the tenth person to have "invented" this
gag, but I'd like to hear for historical reasons who used this
first...till then, I'll lay it on ya....I'm getting ready to
pitch an act (rock music) and am going through my stuff to put a
short (5-6 min) routine with cards in case I need to wow em (in
the band's suite) after the showcase...since at some point I need
to have a card selected I was going over several ways to present
the deck for selection when I started experimenting with getting
a wide spread between my hands...it hit me thusly:
Have "the" deck in pocket sans box with a thin rubber
band wrapped around it widthwise. Remove deck from pocket (or
wherever) and hold it face down in one hand. Don't call attention
to the elastic..looks natural cause they aren't ina box. Take the
rubber band off by catching it underneath with 2nd finger (under
deck) and "rolling it off with other thumb and first finger. The
object is to have rubber band hanging under the deck off the
first joint of sed finger. Since I am right handed, I hold the
deck in normal position in my left hand. Reach over with free
hand (my right) and during the act of reaching fingers beheath
the deck and thumb on top to pull cards into spread hook the free
end of the rubber band with other second and third fingers. As
you spread the cards between the hands the elastic acts as a
bridge allowing you to present an impossible spread between the
hands. After the card is selected close the deck in a reverse
manner and let the elastic drop to the floor or replace it around
the deck....
While you are spreading the cards, push down with the
thumbs to keep the cards securely against the rubber. You have to
curl the first joints of the holding fingers inward a little to
keep the band from pulling free....It looks cool and if played
casually (not as a trick itself, but as part of the aura of magic
to come) has potential for suspending reality for at least a
blink or two....
While I'm sure this gag has probably seen print before,
I've not seen it (heck maybe I did, but don't remember) it just
struck me as something someone might be able to use...I know I
will.........HAPPY HOLIDAZE....tabman...
Would be interested in history and variations, besides,
since I learned how to pull a rubber band through my thumb I
sorta like those stretchy little buggers...
Msg #3776 Dated 15:34:47 12-10-90 3394 <-
From: HARRISON CARROLL
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: CHECKING IT OUT
OK, and many thanks!
Msg #3777 Dated 15:35:46 12-10-90 3417 <-
From: HARRISON CARROLL
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SWAPPING SHIRTZ
ok tabby, and I'll let Ray know
Msg #3778 Dated 15:40:55 12-10-90 3556 <-
From: HARRISON CARROLL
To: JOE RYAN
Re: COLD READING
Yes, Joe it's me. Who else? I was thinking of you the other night as I
watched Tyson take out Stewart.
Boy I'm amazed to see you on here. Was it you that asked about cold
reading?
Msg #3779 Dated 15:42:29 12-10-90 -> 3866
From: HARRISON CARROLL
To: JEFF BUSBY (X)
Re: JUST A HI
Jeff: I saw your name on here and thought I'd say hello. I remember the
enjoyable evening I spent with you at Bill Bradford's house out in
Concord. Anyway, I hope you are well. Say Hi to Bill Okal for me, if
you see him..
Harry
Msg #3780 Dated 19:09:34 12-10-90 3773 <--> 3792
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: RED SNAPPERZ
Hear, Hear from a CARPENTER. When learning an effect it's nice to know
about it's history but I wish magic authors would learn to use
FOOTNOTES! When I'm reading and learning the "moves" step by step I
hate to have to re-read the history each time I go over the page. I
don't plan to recite geneology when I'm performing. The lay audience
doesn't care who invented the "saw" or who decided how many inches or
rise each stair in a stairway should have, or whose variation of
railing weare using. They just care that it WORKS.
Msg #3781 Dated 19:31:04 12-10-90 -> 3787
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: MESSAGE EDITING
At the end of each message the prompt line says I can edit the message.
When I have tried I'm told to select the line number that part is ok
What do I do after that?
What is meant by the prompts Insert,List, and Margin?
Msg #3782 Dated 19:46:58 12-10-90 -> 3793
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: GOLLIWOG BALL
Reading tonite in 1920 UP HIS SLEEVE by Charles Waller and he made
reference to an old effect called GOLLIWOG BALL...would like any info
I can find about the effect....where can I find a description of the
effect and perhaps its working....thanks...tabman
Msg #3783 Dated 19:48:29 12-10-90 -> 3806
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: PARRALAX
I probably spelled it wrong, but recently ordered an effect using a
jumbo card where the "card changes from from=nt to back in the
spectators hand.....PARRALAX..anyway, my favorite dealer said was out
of print and no longer available...am interested in a copy of
manuscript if there is one available...thanks again...tabman..
Msg #3784 Dated 22:11:03 12-10-90 3769 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID LUTHER (X)
Re: LOOKING FOR BOOK
I don't know if he still has it or not, but David Meyer had a copy of
Elliott's "The Best In Magic" (NY, 1956, 246 p., "Fine in dust jacket")
for LESS than H&R! He also had a copy of Elliott's "Classic Secrets of
Magic" (NY, 1953, 210 p.). List was mailed Nov. 8th, so who knows? He
can be reached at (708) 757-4950 - David Mayer Magic Books, P. O. Box
427, Glenwood, IL 60425. Shipping is $3.00 for first book ordered and
$ .50 for each additional book. The catalog number for Best is Catalog
#15, Book #C34 and Classic is #C35.
Msg #3786 Dated 22:24:42 12-10-90 3775 <--> 3803
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: IMPOSSIBLE SPREAD
That does sound great, Tabman! A floating fan! Now, if you can keep
the rubber band and position it right, you are all set up to have their
card fly out of the deck.
Msg #3787 Dated 22:27:01 12-10-90 3781 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: MESSAGE EDITING
Some good questions about the menu line that appears after you enter a
message. Let's see...
Edit - This one is a little tricky, although it does display an example
as . Here's what you do to edit a message
you have just entered. Let's say that on line 3 I have mistyped
the word CARD and I have written CRAD . OK. I type
E for Edit and press the ENTER key. I'm prompted for the
line number. My error is on line 3, so I type 3 and press
ENTER. Now I'm shown the line and prompted for the change.
I type in the ERROR, followed by a semi-colon [;] followed by
the correction. So I would type CRAD;CARD and press the
ENTER key. I'm given a chance to correct a second error, but
I don't have any, so I just press the ENTER key again.
That's how Edit works.
Insert-This gives you the opportunity to insert either a blank line
or lines of text. You type I for Insert and press the
ENTER key. You will be asked for the line number of the
line below the one you want to begin the insert at. You enter
that number and press the ENTER key. Now you are given a
chance to insert lines of text. Just like a message, you can
type several lines. To end the insert you press the ENTER
key TWICE. If you just want a blank line, you can select
Insert, give the line number of the line below where you want
the blank, and then just press the ENTER key.
List - If you type L and press the ENTER key your message will
be redisplayed with line numbers. This allows you to see the
message, along with any changes you have made, etc. At the end
of the List, the same Menu will appear again and you can
continue to Edit, etc.
Margin-Allows you to change the right margin on a message.
REMEMBER -- when you have finished entering a message or using any of
the above commands, you must still SAVE the message if you want it to
remain on the system!
Hope that helps. Now I'm going to look at this message again, using
List, make any changes, using Edit, and Save it.
Msg #3790 Dated 23:48:02 12-10-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MULLHOLLAND LIBRARY
Burt Carpenter has provided the following information.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here is an article that should be of interest to all. It concerns
one of the greatest magic libraries in the world. I had heard
rumors that the collection had been sold, or was about to be sold
and that Ricky Jay was to be appointed as curator. Has anyone
else heard about this? Sorry about the length but I felt this was
that important.
MAGIC: GOVERNMENT WANTS S&L'S LIBRARY TO DO DISAPEARING ACT
by James Bates, Times Staff Writer
The Trick Is To Turn Magic Into Money.
The federal government is trying to make hundreds of billions of
dollars in assets disappear-assets that are the legacy of the
nation's savings and loan debacle. But it has never faced as
strange a dilemma as it does now in trying to rid itself of one
of the world's great libraries of magic.
Inherited from a defunct Century City thrift once headed by an
amatuer magician, the library includes thousands of posters and
handbills, 16th century books of magic and private letters of
such well known magicians as Harry Houdini. The collection now
awaits its fate on the fifth floor of a highrise, where for
protection it is locked in four dark rooms kept at 70 degrees.
Events during the past month have left government officials
with a difficult choice: sell the collection to recover money for
taxpayers or emply a bureaucratic sleight of hand that would give
the collection to Library of Congress Officials, who have no
money to buy it but who fear that selling the collection may
endanger its value to scholars.
This isn't the kind of predicament anyone ever imagined last
year when Congress formed the Resolution Trust Corp. to mop up
the savings-and-loan mess.
At that time the RTC's policy was clearly stated: Sell as
quickly as possible the billions of dollars in bad loans, fore-
closed real estate, junk bonds and other assets collected by
failed savings and loans using taxpayer insured deposits. No one
said anything then about what to do with posters advertising an
80-foot fall from a building by "The Great Desperado," 135-year
old handbills advertising "Professor Savre, The Great Modern
Magician" or personal letters from Houdini with the words "King
of Handcuffs" on the letterhead.
"It is an unusual asset to say the least for a savings and loan
to have. If this were an apartment building, it would be an easy
decision'" sighs John F. Penrose, the RTC executive overseeing
the closing of the thrift, First Network Savings. Penrose says
the agency is undecided on what it will do.
The library is called the Mulholland Library of Conjuring and
the Allied Arts after John Mulholland, an early 20th century
magician whose personal collections make up much of the library.
It had a curator until earlier this year, and an arts advisory
board that listed such well known celebrities as comedian-actor
Steve Martin, producer-director Tony Bill and playwright and
filmmaker David Mamet.
The collection was assembled by Carl M. Rheuban, a magic devotee
who ran First Network until it was seized by regulators in Janu-
ary and closed last month at a cost to taxpayers of $139 million.
Rheuban, under investigation by federal authorities for possible
criminal violations at First Network spent at least $1.5 million
of the thrift's money on it. In addition to the manuscripts and
books, Rheuban also added to his collection wind-up automatons
from the 1800's that show puppet-like figures performing magic,
including one built by Frenchman Jean Eugene Robert-Houdin, The
father of modern magic from whom Houdini took his name.
Auction experts and others said determining the value of Rheu-
ban's collection is difficult because it is so unusual and no one
knows what a wealthy investor would pay. But they believe it
could easily be three to four times what Rheuban spent. No one
disputes the library is as rare a magic collection as there is,
which is why the RTC finds itself in such a delicate position.
"After our collection here, I don't think there are any others
in the United States that woulds compare to it. These aren't just
card tricks we are talking about," said Larry Sullivan, chief of
the rare books collection at the Library of Congress.
The RTC's Penrose said he was talking to auction houses about
selling the collection when Library of Congress officials made it
clear about three weeks ago that they would like the collection.
Lacking money to buy it outright, they dug up an obscure feder-
al law that suggests the library can get it. The law reads that
when one federal agency is selling property other than data
processing equipment, it should solicit agencies known to use
that equipment and arrange to transfer the asset to that agency.
"The biggest creditor is the federal government, and we are a
government agency. The government should benefit from what is an
unfortunate situation. The public should gain by it," Sullivan
said.
RTC officials said the law is news to them.
"Generally, we are supposed to sell an asset at the best possi-
ble price to recoup some of the losses taxpayers will incur. That
is our basic mission and goal," spokesman Kevin Sheilds said.
But if the law applies, he adds the RTC may have to follow it.
The prospect of an auction worries those who have been involved
with the library. They fear that the library will be broken up
forever, or that an investor may buy it and make it off limits to
scholars.
One hope has been that the RTC can sell it to a buyer, perhaps
a museum or library, that will make it available. Penrose said he
has made some preliminary calls, but found no interest yet.
(This article appears temporarily without the permission of the L.A.
Times. Permission is being applied for).
Msg #3792 Dated 0:47:19 12-11-90 3780 <--> 3831
From: T A WATERS
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: RED SNAPPERZ
Usually when I write up an effect I put the info on its background down
in a CREDITS section at the end -- but there are other times when I
want to make damn sure the reader knows where something came from
(particularly when claims are being made about an item) -- and in those
cases I put it into the body of the description so they HAVE to read
it. As I have oft said, I think it is only a short step from not
caring who invented something to not caring how you get it -- and that
way lies ethical disaster...
Msg #3793 Dated 0:54:11 12-11-90 3782 <--> 3797
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: GOLLIWOG BALL
The GOLLIWOG BALL was invented by David Devant, after a similar but far
more mechanically complex effect was shown to him by Harry Kellar.
Devant asked Kellar if he could perform the effect in England if he
could come up with a simplified method, and Kellar agreed. The Devant
method for the effect, which was simply that of a large ball rolling up
a plank, was accomplished with a thread and a thin slit around the
vertical equator of the ball. I believe (but am not sure) that it is
described in Devant's SECRETS OF MY MAGIC.
Msg #3794 Dated 5:48:28 12-11-90 3523 <-
From: EMORY KIMBROUGH
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SIXTH FINGER
Nested thumb tips? Well, Joe DeLion had a variation of that years ago.
He stuffed a thumb tip into a plastic Cyrano nose. Vanished a scarf
by putting it into the nose/tip held in his hand, sticking the nose
on his face, and showing his hands empty. He then repeated the trick
to "explain" it, but this time stole back out with the thumbtip.
He actually fooled some people at a convention with this, but I doubt
that they were the most experienced magi at the convention. Funny
gag the way he presented it.
Msg #3795 Dated 6:35:00 12-11-90 3705 <--> 3796
From: EMORY KIMBROUGH
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DON'T GET ME ON
I once ordered a Long Card from Tannens. It arrived - folded.
I once ordered The Immaculate Connection from Tannens.
It arrived - folded twice.
Msg #3796 Dated 8:12:17 12-11-90 3795 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: EMORY KIMBROUGH
Re: DON'T GET ME ON
ARRRGGGHHHHHHH!!!
Msg #3797 Dated 8:58:40 12-11-90 3793 <--> 3816
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: GOLLIWOG BALL
I appreciate your taking time to share your knowledge of
all facets of magic. You know, after I put that question about
Mr. Golliwog and his Ball up on the bbs, I thought to myself,
"I'll bet T A Waters knows the answer" and I looked up and to the
right where my reference books reside and saw Waters on the top
of the spine rightmost on the upper shelf...so I looked it up and
learned, not only what the effect was, but three modus operendi,
and who got it from who.
Charles Waller's presentation as outlined in UP HIS
SLEEVE is comedic as the ball operates behind his back as he
lectures on the gravety of gravity always returning to its
lowermost rest just as the lecturer turns to illustrate the
principle using the slanted board and ball.
I have nothing detailing Keller here other than broad
history - You, Dawes, Christopher, Gibson - so I went to Our
Magic to read Devant and was referred to My Magic (which I must
get). My library is general generally with areas of detail being
accumulated because I wanted to research a particular idea. The
historical monographs coming out today by several publishers have
been helpful. I must get the Gus Rapp book from Meyer soon after
reading about him from Newman, The Pioneer Mentalist by the same
publisher.
I have particular respect for the totally committed
writers like Jarrett and Annemann as well as both Theo. and David
Bamberg. I read Bruce Elliott often, rereading both Phoenix and
his books because I like his style of writing and have studied it
to the degree allowed by limited reference.
Am appreciating more and more the geneology of
methodology as time goes by. Could such a reference as I
suggested in my last message be possible. Perhaps if it were
limited to a certain field such as card magic or top 1000 effects
or something like that....don't know, rather see an all inclusive
compendium...who could undertake such an enormous task ???
I'm rambling on and I appologize, but we had some good
news today. My best friend (and father of my God-daughter) just
took over as head of studio production for a most major player in
the recording industry. He's about my age and has starved for
decades most always keeping a good attitude and doing excellent
work. I'm so proud of him for sticking to his guns and it puts a
glow on my day....CHEERS to you as well......tabman...
.
Msg #3798 Dated 11:29:23 12-11-90 3720 <-
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: JONATHAN KAUFTHAL
Re: IBM SIGNATURE
We have our Ring meeting on 13 Nov so I should be able to get it signed
then and hopefully in the mail by Friday.
Msg #3800 Dated 14:54:06 12-11-90 3678 <-
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: STEVE KUCERA (X)
Re: BOOKS
The best book for the technical side of theater is "Scenery For The
Theatre" by Harold Burris-Meyer and Edward C. Cole. Published by Brown,
Little, and Co., Inc. This is THE text used by professional stage
designers, production shops and stage managers. It is over 500 pages.
It is organized into several sections with several chapters in each.
Following are the section titles:
1. Organization
2. Production Planning
3. Planning Scenery
4. Types of Scenery
5. Materials
6. Scene Shop
7. Tools and Equipment for Scene Shop
8. Scene Construction
9. Stage and Equipment
10.Hanging, Joining, Stiffening & Bracing Scenery
11.Properties (includes making them, special effects)
12.Assembling & Running the Show, Post Productin Techniques
13.Processes and Techniques (includes metalwork, thermoplastics,
fiberglas etc)
.
This book will teach you everything you need to know to stage up to a
full broadway production, as far as Staging, scenery, organization etc.
It does not cover lighting or sound.
.
Another text that is used by many colleges is "Scene Design and Stage
Lighting" by W. Orem Parker. It is published by Holt, Rhinehart, and
Winston, Inc. This book is a good overview and teaches the basics of
scenery and set design and construction. It also includes lighting
basics for a theater. This book is easier to read than "Scenery For The
Theatre" but is not nearly as complete. This book is also 500+ pages.
It also does not cover sound.
.
The only books I know of that discuss sound for a theater are meant for
engineers designing the facility prior to construction. The only
references I have for this type of book are "Sound In The Theatre" and
"Acoustics For The Architect" both by Harold Burris-Meyer. I have not
read either of these but havebeen told they are very good. (Tabby, you
might want to check them out if some of your recording experience has
been in engineering)
.
Hope this helps point you in the right direction. Sometimes I think
most magicians don't realize that stage magic is just one small branch
of THEATER.
.
Burt C.
Msg #3802 Dated 18:05:18 12-11-90 3526 <--> 3804
From: MAC KING
To: TED EGGERS (X)
Re: PRACTICE AND PATTER
The question of where ideas come from is, to me, one of the most
interesting in magic. I have done a lot of thinking and reading on that
subject, and Gary Larsen (The Far Side cartoonist) has what I believe
is the truest and most complete answer. He feels that all creativity
comes from an overabundance of caffeine.
Msg #3803 Dated 18:52:46 12-11-90 3786 <--> 3805
From: RICHARD HART
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: IMPOSSIBLE SPREAD
Been fooling with the rubberband card spread idea. It's so perverse,
I like it. Been having trouble getting the spread long enough, seems
the cards don't slip once they connect with the band. So, I took some
black stretch elastic, tied a long loop of black silk thread to one
end, and ran the other end up my sleeve. No problem now, the cards
will slip over the thread and I can get a real long spread now. Plus,
release the loop of thread, and it disappears up the sleeve, leaving no
one the wiser. Balancing the cards on the thread is tricky, but if you
slip two fingers into the loop, you can manage to balance without too
much trouble. Imagine working the close-up room at the castle, having
a spectator take a card from this elongated, mid-air spread, and as
soon as they do, the cards fall out of the air to the table below.
Hmmmm... !
Msg #3804 Dated 19:34:12 12-11-90 3802 <--> 3814
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAC KING (X)
Re: PRACTICE AND PATTER
That explains it.
Msg #3805 Dated 19:34:57 12-11-90 3803 <--> 3812
From: TABBY CRABB
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: IMPOSSIBLE SPREAD
If you keep the cards in the "air" until the hands are far enough apart
it works. I'll have to try the thread. Glad you like it...tabman..
Msg #3806 Dated 20:01:00 12-11-90 3783 <--> 3815
From: JIM SISTI
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PARRALAX
Tabby...I have a copy of PARALLAX if you're interested. I must warn
you though...it's kind of stupid, but interesting if you like
topological type things like CARD WARP and STARGATE. Let me know if
you want it... Best, Jim
Msg #3808 Dated 20:48:36 12-11-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: I FORGET
Tabbo my man... Impossible Spread. Has been done with a dual REEL
(I have one somewhere) the thread is better as the cards slide
better. I see David has done the set up with the thread and a
pull. That is good too.
I have Manfred Thum's FAX nr. at home (will send to you when
I get there, either Sunday or Tuesday next?
Msg #3809 Dated 20:49:25 12-11-90 -> 3813
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: MAGIC?
David: I am in town (well Santa Paula!) and will be swapping cars
(I hope with no trouble) Wednesday. Will stay here at my pals
house at least thru Wed. nite. PLAN A IS TO GO TO CASTLE FRI
LUNCH AND MAYBE FRI NITE. Then I have decided to DRIVE HOME
SATURDAY morning. Rather than hang about L.A. until the following
Tuesday, as I have to raise $60.000 to put down on a house.
Anybody wanno made 10-percent for 4 months when I get the 60K due
then to me? I just need to get this house bought so I don't lose
it!!! Will get my magic! brain back in gear next week, meanwhile
gang, am reading messages, saving 'em and will do some replies
later when I get home. For now, just being brief.
Don't worry about schedule for Seminar not showing MAGIC!
Joe printed those a long time ago. I go to Wichita to visit Joe
next couple of weeks and will demonstrate this to him and work on
the schedule with him.
Go with the "Bongers" release on 15th as you planned. Note
secred word? that is "secret" word (name?)
Msg #3812 Dated 23:31:29 12-11-90 3803 <--> 3824
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: IMPOSSIBLE SPREAD
Interesting! I haven't had a chance to try it yet. I wonder if it
could be worked into a routine with a horizontal spring flourish. Do
the flourish first, shooting cards from right hand to left, then pull
them back into the Tabman Spread. You could maybe say something about
how if you hold them just right they will support one another.
Msg #3813 Dated 23:39:55 12-11-90 3809 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC?
Will reveal the "Bongers" secret on the 15th. Hope everyone on MAGIC!
is ready for this one!
If you want to come into L.A. on Wed. night you can certainly stay
here. Just call and let me know (818-899-8812). I will be out all day
Wed., but Sam, the voice mail system, will take the message and will
page me to return a call. Otherwise, I will be back at my place at
around 6 p.m. and will be going out to dinner at 6:30. On Thursday
night I'm planning to attend the Ring 21 meeting and you might enjoy
joining me for that. Friday I can't be at lunch, but could meet you at
the Castle for the evening. Look forward to hearing from you.
Keep on Joe! The MAGIC! members want to know when our session is.
Msg #3814 Dated 23:45:11 12-11-90 3802 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAC KING (X)
Re: PRACTICE AND PATTER
Gary Larsen (Hmmm... Interesting name...) has part of the answer!
There are two other sources of creativity...
1) There is a secret, as yet undiscovered, vitamin in CHOCOLATE.
It is NECESSARY for proper brain function. In order to be
creative one must have at least one serving of chocolate EVERY
DAY.
2) There is also a secret, as yet undiscovered, vitamin in PASTA.
Also NECESSARY for proper brain funtion, but it is not required
in doses as large as the Chocolate one. One or two servings of
pasta a week will provide the necessary amount.
The three elements - caffeine, the chocolate vitamin and the pasta one
are NOT discrete - it is the COMBINATION of the three that results in
creativity. You will notice, for example, that the Swiss take
chocolate in quantities out of proportion to the other two elements and
have ended up being bankers and watchmakers, not innovators and
creators. The French rely on caffeine and chocolate and... well...
they have developed highly refined sexual habits, but, alas, not much
else. The Italians in former centuries had a balance and the results
were Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Machiavelli. In later years they have
placed too high a value on only the pasta and coffee and the results
have been... well... the results have been disappointing. The English,
of course, eschew all three and have only produced Margaret Thatcher.
Msg #3815 Dated 0:39:00 12-12-90 3806 <-
From: MAX MAVEN
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: PARRALAX
Background on this trick: starting point was Robert Neale's "Trapdoor
Card," which begat both Terri Rogers' "Stargate" and David Britland's
"Parallax." Can't agree with the comment that "it's kind of stupid."
Rather, I think it's kind of brilliant.
Msg #3816 Dated 1:22:23 12-12-90 3797 <-
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: GOLLIWOG BALL
One thing I don't mention in the entry is that Kellar's original
version apparently used a complicated system of electromagnets. I
suppose if you wanted to do it these days you could do a larger version
of a David Hoy pingpong ball effect -- and have a rat or some such
inside the ball (Hoy used a bug).
What would the subtitle for this hypothetical book on credits be? A
Hundred Ways Of Making Enemies...? As one who has gone through that
mill to some degree, lemme tell you, for some tricks you would need a
whole book just to discuss one genealogy.
Msg #3817 Dated 4:58:47 12-12-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: OFFLINE
I'll be in NYC til tomorrow night at which time I will respond to
messages. If you're in the city and wanna say hey be at Comfort Inn
on W57 or at Woodys corner 2nd and 4th around 9pm for an hour.
See you tomorrow night.....
Msg #3818 Dated 5:00:46 12-12-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: PARALLAX
I'll take it. Thanks....
Msg #3819 Dated 9:41:20 12-12-90 -> 3827
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: CASTLE LECTURE
As those of you who were there know, last Sunday's Castle lecture was
cancelled and replaced by a "Round Table" discussion with Bill ("The
Prez") Larsen, Billy McComb, Dr. John Booth and moderated by Peter Pit.
There was lots of mostly interesting discussion of general topics
magical. The real "gold" of the session came when the participants
digressed and told stories and anecdotes. The combined experience
of those fellows is certainly not to be sneezed at!
Afterward I chatted with Billy
McComb and Dr. Booth about many of the more colorful characters of our
magical heritage, many of whom one or both knew well.
Having recently re-read Steinmeyer's wonderful reissue of JARRETT, it
was great and fascinating fun to discuss Thurston with Dr. Booth.
Why I go on like this I don't really know, except that these are the
moments that make up for any and all of the shortcomings of living in
Los Angeles!
Msg #3820 Dated 15:33:01 12-12-90 -> 3833
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: ALL
Re: BALTIMORE TRIP
Regarding my trip to Baltimore, I had a great time. (I even got
some of my "real work" done!) It was really great to meet Tabby and
Howie in person. Regarding Tabby's comments about me, I don't know if
I'd call myself a "computer maven for NASA". After all, there is only
one maven! Tabby's a great guy - a good ole boy just about like you
would imagine. He seems like the kind of friend you can really depend
upon and he's so unassuming. Magic does seem to attract some of the
best people. Tabby picked me up and we went over to Howie's house,
where Howie's wife stuffed us with lots of pasta - good stuff.
Afterwards, Howie took to us dungeon, basement/workshop (I love these
kind of places). He demo'ed tons of tricks, of which I bought more
than I should have - but I couldn't help myself. Howie also showed us
his collection and other stuff. He does have a flight trainer in his
office! (I used to work for Link Flight Simulation, so I've seen a few
of these, including some of the first ones ever made many years ago by
Ed Link.) My visit was the highlight of my trip to Baltimore, although
some of the restaurants were pretty nice too (and then there's the
story of my running into an old girlfriend...). If you are in
Baltimore give these guys a call.
I'm sorry it took me so long to get this message out but I've been
super busy since I got back. And we had Michael Ammar in last night
for a lecture and seminar. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Charlie
Msg #3822 Dated 15:34:19 12-12-90 -> 3834
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TWINS
Tabby says I look like a "younger, moustached PETE BIRO"? Hey Pete,
have I been insulted or complemented? Actually I looked like this 13
years before Pete evey did!
Charlie
Msg #3824 Dated 17:45:22 12-12-90 3812 <--> 3828
From: RICHARD HART
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: IMPOSSIBLE SPREAD
How about the Tabman Spread in a Card on finger stabbing effect. Have
a duplicate card with center hole vested. Force duplicate on
spectator. Replace spectator's card in deck and diagonal palm steal
while handing them the deck to shuffle going south with palmed card.
Take the deck back, do the spread, and toss the cards upward. Right
hand comes back, retrieves vested "hole" card, and stabs into the
falling spread. Voila, Lance Burton in close up...
Just a thought. Might be a bit tricky getting to the vested card
quickly. I'm sure our members will have easier (and more sure)
methods. How about it guys?
Msg #3825 Dated 18:18:21 12-12-90 3657 <-
From: GENO MUNARI
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: WHERE IS YOU??
The closeup session was great! I wish all could have been there. We
will do it again in 1991, and will post the info soon. I will soon
report on the event . Burt, thanks so much for your interest.
l
Msg #3827 Dated 18:37:36 12-12-90 3819 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: CASTLE LECTURE
Thanks for the "Round Table" report. I missed it! Seems I was at the
opera.....
Msg #3828 Dated 18:40:28 12-12-90 3824 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: IMPOSSIBLE SPREAD
An interesting idea! Biro has a nice effect with a center hole card.
Maybe, if he is in a good mood, he'll explain it.
Msg #3830 Dated 19:08:45 12-12-90 3670 <--> 3838
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: BOOK REVIEWS
Impossibilia sounds like a good one. I'm no card mechanic, but am
fairly competent at most close-up including some card magic. My most
performed card effects are "Cutting the Aces" by Vernon as appears in
STARS OF MAGIC, George Sands version of "Twisting the Aces", and Harry
Lorayne's "Aces and Tens". It seems that many of the new books deal
mostly with card magic. It's nice to get one that utilizes other
items. Thanks for the recommendation.
Msg #3831 Dated 19:10:09 12-12-90 3792 <--> 3836
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: RED SNAPPERZ
I am one of those who WANTS to know where an effect came from. Many
people may not make the effort to look in a credits section, but if
there were a footnote at the end of the page or a box insert describing
the originator or other notes it would be a lot easier to deal with.
Msg #3833 Dated 20:27:23 12-12-90 3820 <--> 3840
From: PETE BIRO
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: BALTIMORE TRIP
Don't forget the IBM is in Baltimore June 29-July 2. See everyone
there? P. Biro.
Msg #3834 Dated 20:28:26 12-12-90 3822 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: TWINS
Stay tuned the SYSOP will be making a major anouncement here about
somethng EXCLUSIVE to MAGIC! From (believe me this is going to be
incredible) KAPS.
The Hofzinser effect was cards "flying" out of a pocket onto the floor.
The box was an item I had fabricated to make it work mechanically that
is. More some day.
Msg #3836 Dated 20:30:44 12-12-90 3831 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: RED SNAPPERZ
Anybody know the "red snapper" made of Aluminum? It had a hook on the
end with rubber bands across one open end of the aluminum tube. You
made it SNAP BACK. The customer tries it and the hook comes loose and
is left in the tube hanging from rubber band, the ROD comes out of the
tube. Heheheheheheh.... the best version I have ever had.
Msg #3838 Dated 21:11:41 12-12-90 3830 <--> 3968
From: RICHARD HART
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: BOOK REVIEWS
If you're really INTO cards, I can highly (now that I've worked my way
through it) recommend FOCUS by our own Max Maven. To be sure, I wasn't
very impressed with it at first, but, having worked my way through it
(oh my aching fingers!) and trying many of the effects on my friends,
my opinion has changed. I think what got to me first was the almost
abbreviated descriptions of handlings for each effect. Of course, I'd
just finished IMPOSSIBILIA, and am somewhat more used to the Richard
Kaufman style. So it did strike me differently. Perhaps if I had read
FOCUS first, I wouldn't have been so put off. But make no
mistake--rarely has there been a tome so chock full of good stuff!
Don't get me wrong, perhaps "abbreviated" was a poor choice of word.
The style seems abbreviated, but the moves and routines ARE described
completely. I guess that's due in part to the wealth of information
included. If Kaufman had written it, I'm sure the book would have
rivaled the Stewart James book in length...
And Max (I'm sure you're reading this--if not, at least reading my
mind...), THANKS for including the very first effect. You WERE right.
I've obtained more puzzled looks from that little quickie than anything
else I do....
Msg #3840 Dated 23:43:36 12-12-90 3833 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BALTIMORE TRIP
Yes! IBM in Baltimore June 29 - July 2. Great magic! Great food in
that area! Close to Tabman & Schwarzman (sounds like a law firm!).
AND -- MOST IMPORTANT -- the MAGIC! seminar! Tips, hints, techniques
on how to get more out of MAGIC! -- BUT WAIT! -- there's MORE -- the
CHANCE TO MEET EACH OTHER!
Msg #3843 Dated 0:12:22 12-13-90 -> 3869
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: VEGAS JUNKET INFO
That master of gaming info - Geno Munari - has done it again! He's
uploaded a file - GAME25.TXT - about how to qualify for Vegas junkets.
For some reason, he hasn't put his name on this one - wonder why...
Msg #3844 Dated 1:50:44 12-13-90 -> 3846
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: I NEED SOME HELP HERE...
Does anyone know the address and/or phone number of Ken Brooke's in
London?
PLEASE FOLKS: While I would greatly appreciate your help on this,
let's not turn this into another "Abbott's Address Saga," okay?
Many thanks!
Msg #3846 Dated 16:31:17 12-13-90 3844 <--> 3855
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: I NEED SOME HELP HERE...
Ken Brooke passed away some years ago. His magic line is now sold
exclusevely by Joe Stevens.
Ken's "studio" used to be on Wardour St. in London, near the centre.
I used to go there all the time. It was a nice area, but crowded with
offices of the major English Movie and Entertainment people. J. Arthur
Rank, etc. Ken's was up one flight from the street. The shared bathroom
was up one more flight--and the Office door next to the "Loo" was of
the most famous music industry Brit, sincethe Beattles... Andrew Lloyd
Weber, who wrote, among other things, Jesus Christ Superstar, Hair,
the Phantom of the Opera, etc. etc.
Ken's place was THE place... small, intimate and lots of fun. To see
him demonstrate was a show in itstelf.
One night a good friend from New York was in visiting with his wife.
She commented to Ken that she had never seen him do a show. He
disappared inthe back room for 15 minutes, then came out (Changedinto
his Tux) and did his full act for the three of us, complete with his
falling gags, EVERYTHING as if there were 300 in the room.
So, there was and is not ever another place like "THE PLACE"... from
time to time I will post Ken Brooke anecdotes here on MAGIC!
But sorry, the place is just a memory....
Msg #3848 Dated 19:00:13 12-13-90 -> 3851
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: CARD TRICK WITH FORCE DEC
Now that I have figured out how to use the "capture mode" on my
communications software, I would like to download a few messages. One
of them was that trick you invented using the forcing deck. I can't
seem to find it. Could you please tell me what message number that is?
Thanks!
Msg #3851 Dated 0:19:38 12-14-90 3848 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CARD TRICK WITH FORCE DEC
Gee, someone wants "DAVID'S IMPOSSIBLE SELECT"!!! I'm flattered.
Really. And I think you'll have fun with it.
BUT... It has been sent to the files along with messages 3000 to 3499.
The file is MAGIC-07.TXT (or MAGIC-07.ZIP if you know how to use Zip).
The files are in the MAGIC! Files area...
To list the MAGIC! files from the Main Menu...
o Type F for Files and press the ENTER key.
o Type L;13 (that's the letter L followed by a semi-colon [;]
followed by the MAGIC! number 13) and press the ENTER key.
Msg #3855 Dated 1:52:29 12-14-90 3846 <--> 3859
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: I NEED SOME HELP HERE...
Yes, Pete, I was aware that Ken is no longer with us, but wow...what a
great story! I knew I could count on you or T.A. for some great
historical stuff on K.B.
And, yes, I do know that Joe Stevens is sole U.S. supplier of the K.B
magic range....but I was looking for some info (original instruction
book and subsequent routining) for the Nemo Jumbo card rise. Joe has
some bastardized hodgepodge of xerox that comes with the version he
offers. Somebody must be supplying the range in the U.K., hmmm?
Msg #3856 Dated 2:01:49 12-14-90
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: POSTERS SALE LIST
Okay, I've just uploaded the first installment of magic posters for
sale...a total of 26 items with prices ranging from $7.50 to over
$1000. These are all originals...NO REPRODUCTIONS.
I HAVE NOT SENT THIS LIST OUT...MAGIC! MEMBERS ARE GETTING THE FIRST
CRACK AT ALL OF 'EM. Always glad to hear your comments or answer any
questions.
Best to all,
'Wayne.
Msg #3857 Dated 6:57:05 12-14-90 -> 3858
From: RICK RUHL
To: ALL
Re: MYSTERY MAGICIAN
Someone wrote about this is a previous message. Well, I go to the
library and WHAM, there is the video, availbale for checkout.
I checked it out and watched it. Amazing how he could give away so man
many stage illusions. Did anyone ever find out who this guys was?
Msg #3858 Dated 7:36:31 12-14-90 3857 <--> 3860
From: TABBY CRABB
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: MYSTERY MAGICIAN
He was named in GENII SPEAKS about a year or so ago, but I forget what
his name was....
Msg #3859 Dated 9:18:43 12-14-90 3855 <--> 3863
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: I NEED SOME HELP HERE...
Paul Stone has the original instructions (I would assume) as he is the
one "making" the stuff for Joe Stevens. I am going to Joe's in Wichita
in a couple of weeks and will look see what insructions he has. Ken did
not have fabulous instructions on the NEMO, as there wasn't much to
know, but if I know what you got (xerox me a copy to Box 1009,
Gualala, CA 95445) and I will see if it is the right stuff. I would
send you mine (a copy) if I knew where they were.
The NEMO is one of the best rising card routines in the world if you
have guts to just do it once... you will see how easy it is.
There are some critical things to know, such as body language, etc.
that make the THREAD WORK totally "covered" as far as your physical
movments, etc. Ken had everything worked out beautifully. He taught me
the handling one on one, which is even better. I also have some work on
PRE-setting so you can just have it all in the bottom of a case and go
with it.
Msg #3860 Dated 9:23:23 12-14-90 3858 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MYSTERY MAGICIAN
Just shows you how little impact exposures really have. The guy is
already forgotten by the ENTHUSIASTS. I know, if you walk down to the
streetcorner in front of the public library and ask layment, they will
all know who he was, what tricks he gave away, then tell you they no
longer have to watch magic shows. And seeing him was one of the thrills
of thier lives.
Msg #3861 Dated 9:26:22 12-14-90 -> 3864
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: POSTER LIST
OK where is the Poster list? There was not a file name with the message
and I did a search, no luck. HELP.
Msg #3862 Dated 9:27:06 12-14-90 -> 3882
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: JAPAN
Max, can you file a brief review of the Tenkai et al parties?
Msg #3863 Dated 10:14:35 12-14-90 3859 <--> 3960
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: I NEED SOME HELP HERE...
Thanks, Pete. I do appreciate it. I'll xerox the stuff in a few days
(as time permits).
Msg #3864 Dated 10:18:40 12-14-90 3861 <--> 3865
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: POSTER LIST
Hmmm...I just tried and couldn't find it either. I uploaded it at
about 2:30 this morning as "Poster.lst" Perhaps it has to be cleared
by sysop before it shows up and is available for download? I dunno.
Just in case, I'll try to upload it again now.
Msg #3865 Dated 10:28:13 12-14-90 3864 <--> 3871
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: POSTER LIST
Yup...just tried again and it STILL doesn't show up on the list of
files. Either I've done something wrong, or David has to clear it
before it's available.
Msg #3866 Dated 12:40:44 12-14-90 3779 <-
From: JEFF BUSBY
To: HARRISON CARROLL (X)
Re: JUST A HI
Thanks, Harry. Talked to Bill the other day, but he's so busy with his
show playing in San Francisco that it's hard to get together. We mail
stuff back and forth and chat very occasionally on the phone, but I
haven't seen Bill in months. The Bradfords are great people but I
haven't seen them since we all met. Best wishes to you.
Msg #3867 Dated 13:47:30 12-14-90 -> 3872
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: GOLLIWOGS AGAIN
The idea behind the GOLLIWOG BALL is interesting. I'd
like to see what KELLER did with the electromagnetics, though
DEVANT's thread method was probably just as effective. I'm going
to put one together using fine thread, an electric motor and a
remote control. WALLER's presentation calls for the ball to
retreat just before he turns around each time during his lecture.
For this I'll have to rig some sort of flywheel brake release
which resets itself at the bottom. I'll keep you posted. I think
I'll use a striped billiard ball so the rolling effect of the
ball will be more visible. I guess I'll see it on the market in a
couple of months now that I've pulled the tab on this particular
can of worms. Haven't seen the new GENII yet with your ad in it.
Best wishes and much success for your new project....
As far as the book of effect geneology is concerned you
could call it "How To Make Enemies" like you suggest as I see
your point, but wouldn't a scholorly work based in fact transcend
this level of mentality? Like you said though, it would be an
almost impossible task with entire volumes being devoted to one
trick. Just an idea...........tabman...
Msg #3868 Dated 13:53:48 12-14-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: POSTER.LST
I'm pretty sure the sysop has to set it up for download and place it
into the directory before it becomes available. Probably be up tonight
or by in the morning at latest. I tried to find it this am myself...
Msg #3869 Dated 15:38:14 12-14-90 3843 <-
From: GENO MUNARI
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: VEGAS JUNKET INFO
I overlooked the fact that I used my pen name on this article Dave,
sorry, but If you would please change it I would appreciate it. I hope
you enjoy it.
Msg #3871 Dated 16:37:28 12-14-90 3864 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: POSTER LIST
Wayne, you are right, the SYSOP has to "open" the file or sumpin like
that, and I know he is out of town until about right now and I will be
talking to him on the phone. Looking forward to the list.
Msg #3872 Dated 16:39:21 12-14-90 3867 <--> 3895
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: GOLLIWOGS AGAIN
Ken Brooke had a version of the Golliwog Ball in his shop one year and
kept promising to show it to me, but never did. I would like to see it
done. I am crazy bout the vesion done in a French Circus that had a man
(acrobat) inside. The Ball climbed a spiral and when it got to the top,
it popped open and the guy jumped out. there is an old tin toy of this
and a poster. I would die for each of these items. Some day!!!
Msg #3873 Dated 16:41:29 12-14-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: GOSHMAN!!!!!
I had one of the greatest magical, or otherwise, experiences
today.
Al Goshman showed up, carrying his case. (This was Friday at the
Castle for lunch)... He said, "Biro... I need some rehearsal, can
I do some magic for your friends?" I was with three laymen.
So, GOSH sat down and proceeded to work. He has only tried to do
any magic three times in the last nine months... Since he was
stricken with Cancer.
He said it is in remission. His hair has grown back, better than
before. He has a great bushy, curly, head of hair. He has lost
weight (but like he said, I needed too!)
He kept saying, "I can't rememer all the routines like I
used to know them". I told him SHUT UP AND KEEP WORKING!
He was as good as need be with the coins, the salt shakers kept
producing them to the delight of the "suckers" that sat alongside
him. He continued, doing the CHINK-A-CHINK (he even had a new
twist on it), Cards thru Newspaper (one of my favorites), The big
bowl routine with sponge balls, finishing with the classic Bagel
under the bowl.
His copper/silver and chinese coin routines are still
trademark effects.
A couple of missed cues, and typically Goshman, any dropped
coin just became the vehicle for another surprise.
It was a real treat not only see him, but he has decided
that he can't GIVE UP... he wants to work, his attitude is there
and the twinkle in his eye is nearly fully recovered.
I was kidding him when he had to bring out a cue sheet (He
said, "I can't remember all the tricks I know, so I have to look
on my cue sheet!" He added, "I didn't realize I did so many
tricks in 20 minutes. Some guys do four tricks and drag them out
with fill, but I do this many (he held up the sheet and there
must have been over a dozen routines on the list).
Even at half speed, half normal quality, Goshman still
prsents the best magic any table top has ever seen.
Msg #3875 Dated 16:43:10 12-14-90 -> 3878
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: STUFF
Had good time in my first visit to Castlein some time. Lunch today
(FRI) saw several MAGIC! folk, Max the Maven, T A Waters, both chatted
about their use of MAGIC! and the pleasure they derive. Also, Bruce
Cervon told him his Ultra Cervon has become the best selling book of
the publisher. There were several people around and I was going to
needle him about the RIGHTS clause, but didn't get the opportunity.
Msg #3876 Dated 16:45:11 12-14-90 -> 3892
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: MULHOLLAND COLLECTION
After reading the story from the L A Times (posted here) I thought to
do a little digging about the fate of the collection.
It turns out there is a BIGGER problem!! Jim Stienmeyer, John Gaughan
and Ricky Jay had just hosted a "COllector's Seminar" and had several
of their most prized possessions on display. AND before they could take
the stuff down, pack it and take it home, THE FEDS LOCKED THE PLACE UP.
THIER OWN PERSONAL STUFF IS LOCKED UP!!!! The Feds -- in typical --
beaurocratic form don't know what they are going to be able to do
about it. They don't believe the guys. They want to see logs, records,
receipts of the sale on these items. Which, in most cases don't exist.
HOw many times do you SWAP collectors items? Nearly all the time. How
often do you just buy thesekinds of things from other collectors and
who makes out receipts????
Now is the time to think about this. Make an inventory of your stuff,
date it, put it somewhere with some kind of date, notary stamp,
something on it to use in case of loss, or dispute.
Rumor has it that David Copperfield was interested in purchase, but no
one can verify. Will try to find out more and keep you posted.
Msg #3878 Dated 17:09:49 12-14-90 3875 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: STUFF
Wish I'd known you were there today, Pete. I was at my usual Houdini
Room Luncheon there. I saw TA at the "landing" bar on the way out and
saw Al Goshman coming in with his case as I was leaving. Would've
liked to have metcha! Gonna take my wife and children tomorrow to
"Kids' Day"...(I HATE that expression...I have CHILDREN not GOATS!)
If you're going to be around, have me paged or something.
Msg #3880 Dated 18:28:21 12-14-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: POSTERS
Sheesh! Give a poor sysop a break! Yes, I do clear all uploaded
files. Yes, I was away and not able to sign on to MAGIC! And, YES,
the file IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD. It is in the Files section as
POSTERS.LST The file is a list of posters, many apparently rare, that
are being offered for sale and are here on MAGIC! before being listed
anywhere else!!! OK, guys, go at it!!!
Msg #3881 Dated 18:30:57 12-14-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MESSAGES
Just got in and will be replying to today's messages a bit later in the
evening. AND, if I can stay up 'til 12:01 A.M. on the 15th (Pacific
Time) I will be uploading the ANNOUNCEMENT of a MAJOR MAGIC! first!
This is something Pete Biro and I have been working on for months. If
I can't stay up, I will make the announcement later in the day...
Msg #3882 Dated 19:23:25 12-14-90 3862 <--> 3890
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: JAPAN
Pete: I wrote an article for Genii reporting the events in Japan. I'll
upload it in the files section under the title "Tokyo."
Msg #3884 Dated 20:50:09 12-14-90 3305 <-
From: VINCENT HANCOCK
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: CARD IDEAS
Yep that's the book I have.
Msg #3885 Dated 20:51:24 12-14-90 3364 <-
From: VINCENT HANCOCK
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: HORSEAPPLES
I see.
Msg #3886 Dated 21:05:20 12-14-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: POSTERS
Wayne didn't put his full name in the POSTERS.LST file. If you want to
reach him via MAGIC! to place an order, you will want to address your
PERSONAL (PRIVATE) message to WAYNE POWERS. His phone number, to call
him direct, is in the file.
Msg #3890 Dated 22:55:30 12-14-90 3882 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: JAPAN
Transfer problems have temporarily held up Max's Tokyo file. Hopefully
we will have it fixed soon.
Msg #3892 Dated 23:05:13 12-14-90 3876 <--> 3905
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MULHOLLAND COLLECTION
That is the SCARIEST story I've read on MAGIC! yet! What are
Steinmeyer, Gaughan, and Jay going to do?
Msg #3895 Dated 0:15:15 12-15-90 3867 <-
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: GOLLIWOGS AGAIN
Well -- if such a book was only read by those whose mentalities would
transcend pettiness in this area -- you wouldn't have to publish it,
just xerox the dozen copies.
Msg #3897 Dated 0:21:41 12-15-90 -> 3904
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC! ANNOUNCEMENT
AN ELECTRONIC PUBLISHING FIRST!
PRIVATE FRED KAPS LETTERS TO APPEAR ON MAGIC!
Some of you have known that "something big" was about to
happen on MAGIC! -- Well, here's the story!
Pete Biro announced today that he will be publishing a set
of private letters from FRED KAPS. Covering the period May, 1972
to April, 1980, the letters will be published, in serial form, on
MAGIC!(tm), the magic community's electronic communications
system, starting in January, 1991. These personal letters have
been held by Pete for over ten years.
"These letters provide a real insight into Fred Kaps," said
Biro. "They let us see magic and magicians through his eyes."
Those who know and who loved Fred Kaps and those who are
familiar with his work will immediately appreciate the magnitude
of the contribution that Pete is making to magic history through
the publication of these letters.
Fred Kaps has been described by many as "The Best All-Around
Magical Performer Ever!" He was equally at home on stage in
front of magicians, for the lay public, or at the close up table.
Kaps was a THREE TIME FISM GRAND PRIX WINNER. Fred passed away
shortly after his last letter to Pete, in July of 1980.
"The letters from Fred will not teach you how to do magic,"
Pete Biro said, "They will give you an insight to his way of
thinking, and what he was doing in the period covered -- May of
1972 through April of 1980. In many cases I will add an Editorial
Comment to clarify something in the letter. Otherwise the let-
ters will be verbatim."
MAGIC! is extremely pleased to be the exclusive vehicle for
the release of these letters. Thank you, Pete!
Msg #3900 Dated 0:34:42 12-15-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC IN JAPAN
Max Maven has returned from his most recent trip to Japan and has
provided a great review of magic activities there. It is available in
the MAGIC! file area. The file is named TOKYO . Thanks Max!
Msg #3904 Dated 1:42:29 12-15-90 3897 <--> 3915
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MAGIC! ANNOUNCEMENT
YES INDEED! That ought to make a few magi run out and buy modems! In
fact, it might make a few run out and buy computers, too! (heh, heh)
That is truly exciting news. Looks like my phone bills won't be going
down any in 1991, after all!
Msg #3905 Dated 8:23:40 12-15-90 3892 <--> 4094
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MULHOLLAND COLLECTION
John said they don't know. YOU ARE RIGHT ON THE KAPS TIMING.
Gaughan also said NOBODY KNOWS WHAT IS GOING TOHAPPEN, THE MAN IN
CHARGE HAS NO IDEA WHAT THIS STUFF IS AND IF IT IS RARE or what!
Msg #3906 Dated 8:25:51 12-15-90 -> 3908
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: TRIP
Sorry none of the MAGIC! members and I were able to connect at the
Castle. I had put my sked on line, but maybe it was in the Comment area
to David and I didn't post public. I guess we need to figure out a
meeting time/place or put a secret message on the Library Bulletin
Board so we can page others??? That's it. If you are there and want
others to know it. Lets put a business card with MAGIC! written on it
and the time/date on the highest open spot on the board to the right?
Any othr ideas? I do know a secret compartment that is just inside th
doorway in the underpart of the main staircase. ???
Msg #3908 Dated 9:35:21 12-15-90 3906 <--> 3916
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TRIP
PETE! - Revealing the secret compartment? After all these years?
Where will Milt keep his lunch? How about, as soon as the MAGIC!
buttons are ready, people just wear those? True, they are a bit large,
but maybe we can figure out a way to make something smaller. Mensa
used to tell people to wear a yellow map tack on their lapel.
Msg #3911 Dated 13:38:23 12-15-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: GOLLIWOGERY
Hi Pete: Its been so busy here I haven't had a lot of
time to comment on your helpful info ina while. Hope your house
deal came together for you OK. I'm really hoping for the BIRO
SPEAKS book complete with photos.....your involvement with magic
has taken you to some places that most of us only dream of. The
crypt at Davenport story was excellent. I remember reading of it
on several occasions and wished I'd been able and privy to visit.
Your Ken Brooke experiences (I hope you took photos) are
priceless, I only wish you'd been able to see his Golliwog Ball
operate.
Wish I couldof joined ya'll at the castle on friday,
someday I'll be able to just fly out for lunch. When I get to
Nashville, maybe I will from time to time cuz I know a couple of
bands that fly (their planes) outa there regularly. Hope you got
hooked up with Dante.
Been working in my shop the past few days riding out the
wait for the right buyer for the property. Its a scarey time
right now, but I've got some great walnut and cherry wood and I'm
trying to turn a ball vase. How they turned that shell, I'm not
sure, but I'm working on it. Just about finished with a beautiful
walnut and leather close up table that I've been wanting to put
together for awhile. I plan to build 25 of them after the move
for people who appreciate this sort of thing. After that I'll be
putting some Hoffmannesque drawer boxes out. All my work features
antique oil rubbed finishes in the manner of the 19th century.
Your swami gimmik story about "I can't read it" was a
hoot. Lucky are we the MAGIC! bbsers who are privy to your tales.
I'm glad you've an effective medium to get this stuff down
especially since Dr. Lichtman is saving all this. You can draw on
it for your books someday.
I appreciate your hooking me up with Obie OBrien the
other day (month)...got a nice note from him today outlining how
to get on the waiting list for the 4F. Thanks again. Say, did you
get that Max Fax I sent out your way?...Best, tabman...
Msg #3912 Dated 15:14:12 12-15-90
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: RINGFLITE & HIMBER WALLET
I am interested in purchasing the Ringflite and a Himber type wallet.
I didn't want to buy something I will not be satisfied with in the
future. Those of you that already work with these items, who do you
think makes the best ones? Are there any types or brands that you
would recommend I stay away from? Thanks in advance!
Msg #3913 Dated 15:19:43 12-15-90 -> 3919
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: FORCING DECK
I showed my wife that impossible trick you designed with the forcing
deck and just as you said, she was sure I had screwed it up! In fact
she was so sure I had made a mistake, she thought I found the card by
pure luck and wanted me to repeat it! "No, no honey, you know the
rules. I never repeat a trick". (Whew!)
I only own one forcing deck and she did not realize she picked the same
card a few days before which I had her locate by sliding a knife blade
into the shuffled deck to locate her chosen card. From the look on her
face I could tell she thought that was one of the most wonderful
effects I have ever performed. No, no honey, I never repeat a trick!
Msg #3915 Dated 16:31:28 12-15-90 3897 <--> 3921
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MAGIC! ANNOUNCEMENT
I can't wait to read these letters. MAGIC! is not just a BBS, it's an
adventure!!!!
Msg #3916 Dated 16:36:10 12-15-90 3906 <--> 3922
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TRIP
I talked to our SYSOP on Thursday night at the RING 21 meeting and he
told me you were going to be at the castle for Friday lunch but I
didn't see anyone matching David discription. I would also like to meet
some of the MAGIC! members. I don't get to the Castle much for Friday
lunch but maybe we could set up a MAGIC! BBS get-togather some Friday
for those of us in the Los Angeles area. It would be great to put the
face with the messages.
Msg #3919 Dated 17:01:36 12-15-90 3913 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: FORCING DECK
Glad to hear that "David's Impossible Select" worked like it is
supposed to. I've had fun watching magi try to figure it out.
Msg #3921 Dated 17:05:51 12-15-90 3915 <--> 4093
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC! ANNOUNCEMENT
Just wait 'till you see some of our plans for 1991! The MAGIC!
seminars at Desert Magic and IBM are just a part of it!
Msg #3922 Dated 17:07:07 12-15-90 3916 <--> 3951
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: TRIP
You have a good idea there, Darrell. How about a MAGIC! get-together
at the Castle sometime after New Year's? Would you be willing to help
coordinate it?
Msg #3923 Dated 18:00:21 12-15-90 -> 3925
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: CELEBRITY MAGICIANS
You never know who you might bump into at the local magic shop. Just
today I ran into Michael Jackson who was looking at some new items.
I am not a particularly big fan of his musically but I have to admit I
was somewhat in awe over someone who can earn more in one hour than
most people do in three lifetimes! The manager of the store said he is
a big fan of magic (I heard Michael Ammar entertained at his home) and
that he frequents the magic store, usually in disguse.
Msg #3925 Dated 0:22:30 12-16-90 3923 <--> 3927
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CELEBRITY MAGICIANS
Gee... You should have done a signed card effect for him and kept the
card! Then you could use it next time -- "And here's your card...
Ooops! Sorry, that's the one from when I performed for Michael
Jackson... Here's your card."
Msg #3926 Dated 0:24:06 12-16-90 -> 3928
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: PHRASE
Heard someone use an interesting phrase recently -- sounded like
something we should expect in magic - "Wilful suspension of disbelief."
Anyone care to comment?
Msg #3927 Dated 8:17:16 12-16-90 3925 <--> 3930
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: CELEBRITY MAGICIANS
Now there is an interesting idea. Someone with enough luck and
persistance could eventually gather a complete deck of cards signed by
celebrities.
Msg #3928 Dated 8:21:31 12-16-90 3926 <--> 3938
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: PHRASE
Sounds like something an attorney-magician would say! You have to give
it a moments thought. It's sort of like, don't be such a skeptic, just
sit back and enjoy the show.
Msg #3929 Dated 8:24:19 12-16-90 -> 3931
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: MY FIRST SHOW
Thanks to all of you who have rendered opinions and helpful advice on
how and what to do at my first big show. Today is the day and good,
bad or indifferent I'll post a full report. Due to many of the
comments I have received here on the Magic! BBS I have made many
changes to what I had originally planned and I think if I don't
collapse from fright or forget my lines, we will all have a great time.
Wish me luck...
Msg #3930 Dated 11:13:22 12-16-90 3927 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CELEBRITY MAGICIANS
Great idea, Stan! Then you could turn it into a magic collectable and
sell it for bocou bucks!
Msg #3931 Dated 11:14:13 12-16-90 3929 <--> 3952
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MY FIRST SHOW
Break a leg, Stan!
Msg #3932 Dated 14:06:48 12-16-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: WALKAROUND MAGI
I may have a need for some walkaround magi to entertain at a reception,
in Los Angeles, for aproximately 1600 people. It will be on April 1
between the hours of 6:30 & 8:30. If you are interested, and
qualified, please leave a comment to the sysop. Thanks.
Msg #3933 Dated 14:46:05 12-16-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MY FIRST SHOW
Best of luck...looking forward to the after show report..
Msg #3934 Dated 18:39:19 12-16-90
From: KEN HENSLEY
To: ALL
Re: ROCCO'S BOOK
Just a quick note to let you all know that Roccos new book "If it
fits sleeve it" is a very good book for anyone interested in that kind
of thing.. It is available from Joe Stevens, or possibly your local
magic shop..
Msg #3936 Dated 19:29:00 12-16-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: PRIOR PARALLAX
In my search for the Britland Parallax manuscript
(hopefully being sent to me by Jim Sisti) I've uncovered another
miracle by the same name. Our own, Max Maven's alter ego Phil
Goldstein is too much a gentleman to mention that he had created
another effect by the same name prior to 1980 when he was living
in Boston USA. Goldstein's PARALLAX is in his THE RED BOOK OF
MENTALISM which was published around 1977. This is mentalism at
its best....a divination of three different spectators geometric
designs, letters, and numbers.
Msg #3937 Dated 19:54:17 12-16-90 -> 3944
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: MY FIRST BIG SHOW
Where should I start? Obviously I didn't die of fright as I feared I
might! The occassion was a Christmas party for letter carriers and
their kids. It was held in the backyard of a home in a very large
enclosed tent. About 100 or so adults and maybe a zillion or so kids.
I was introduced by a person with a very big voice and I wish I had the
same as there was no microphone available. The place was packed with
people standing in the entrance straining to see me. Not exactly a
quiet crowd so I did a lot of shouting. Actually, they were pretty
well behaved compared to the pandemonium before and after my show.
I started by producing a wand which was sleeved and I was surprised to
hear gasps from the crowd as I was very nonchalant about its
appearance. I asked them if they were ready to have some fun and they
nearly blew the roof off with a resounding YES! I started with the
Professors nightmare and said how the different lengths of rope could
represent different routes and how some are short, medium or long.
Then, how management thinks they are all the same at which time I pull
the ropes to show them all equal in length and then say it's just an
illusion as they really are all different. That got a very good
response from everyone. I had reservations about this next one but it
turned out all right. I held a Scotch and Soda set up showing one half
dollar and one centavo, pattering about how on my recent trip to Mexico
the shop keepers love American dollars but only gave me change in Pesos
and Centavos. I held them both in my closed left hand and had a
spectator choose either coin. They chose the Centavo which I vanished
clear back to Mexico. Well, not quite. While they were watching my
left hand I stole a real centavo with my right from a coin clip. I
told the boy who chose the centavo to tell the audience where it went.
When he said he didn't know, I produced it from his ear. That turned
out very well from the sound of the applause. Next, I did the Sucker
sliding die box trick which really got screams of laughter from the
kids and amazement from the parents who thought they knew what was
going on all along. Next, I had an imaginary Sam, the silk worm,
produce a white silk which was then initialed, vanished and reappeared
inside of a cored apple wrapped in a napkin. That one probably rated
highest on the Amazement meter. Then, I did a prediction effect where
I had differen dates written on the backs of all of the cards in the
deck. The card chosen by the spectator matched my prediction which was
December 25th. (Of course, after all, it's a Christmas show!)
Then came Don Alans Egg On Head routine. That one did not do as well
as I had hoped. The boy I chose practically went into shock the moment
I put the egg canister on top of his head. He was sure he was going to
be a mess but was quite happy when he got the glass full of candy. I
closed with having someone from the middle of the audience choose a
card. (Or so they thought!) They shuffled it into the deck which I
placed in my inside coat pocket. I was supposed to find it by sense of
touch alone but I failed the first two times and boy did they ever let
me know I was wrong! Finally I had them concentrate on the card and
name it whereupon I produced a jumbo card of the one chosen. As the
applause tapered off I unfolded a large pleated sign that said "THANK
YOU" and then flipped it over to read MERRY CHRISTMAS. All of the
comments I received were very good and they would like to have me back
again next year. On a scale from one to ten on how well I could have
done, I would give myself an eight. I forgot to mention a couple of
lines here and there but nobody knows that except me. I video taped it
and noticed I talked a lot faster in the show than during rehearsals.
I guess I wanted to keep their attention with a faster pace and I ended
up compressing a 20 minute show into 16 minutes. Before the show I
made balloon animals for most all of the kids and now my fingers are
pretty raw from all that twisting and tieing. I'm just glad I had the
foresight to take a handpump and not pass out using lung power!
All in all, it was a nice success for me and I wouldn't mind doing it
again. Thanks for all of you who gave me helpful advice, I appreciate
it very much!! Later...
Msg #3938 Dated 21:48:25 12-16-90 3926 <--> 3945
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: PHRASE
The actual wording is, "The willing suspension of disbelief." This is
a long established term used in the theater world, defining the
contractual frame of mind of an audience member when attending a play.
Msg #3940 Dated 22:10:14 12-16-90 -> 3946
From: HOWARD SCHWARZMAN
To: ALL
Re: FALSE COUNT
I've uploaded a text file with my handling of the less is more false
count that I use for the Edward Victor Jumping Card trick. Check file
COUNTING.TXT.
Msg #3941 Dated 22:12:14 12-16-90
From: HOWARD SCHWARZMAN
To: ALL
Re: HAPPY
SEASONS GREETINGS TO EVERY
Msg #3944 Dated 22:39:57 12-16-90 3937 <--> 3953
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MY FIRST BIG SHOW
Sounds like you did a TERRIFIC job, Stan! Great going! Can hardly
wait to catch your act at the Castle! Seriously, it sounds like "you
done good."
Msg #3945 Dated 22:40:48 12-16-90 3938 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: PHRASE
Thanks. I knew it had a familiar ring to it, but I couldn't place it.
I heard it out of context in a most unlikely circumstance. Well,
here's to Max Maven and to "The willing suspension of disbelief."
Msg #3946 Dated 22:42:16 12-16-90 3940 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: HOWARD SCHWARZMAN (X)
Re: FALSE COUNT
Howard's file, COUNTING.TXT, describing his handling of the less is
more false count he uses for the Edward Victor Jumping Card trick is
now available in the files area. Thanks, Howard!
Msg #3947 Dated 4:05:15 12-17-90
From: DAVE MAGNENAT
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: GOOD, EH?
Stan!
Congratulations on your debut! It was quite a rush, wans't it?
Clowns call it "Performance High"...Kinda like the sudden relaxation of
your entire body (brain included) when you dodge a fast moving train!
Again, congratulations.
Also, go back an look at your previous messages (I've just been reading
the mail I've collected over the last month or so)....It's an
interesting look at the development of an act. It shows thought,
inspiration, and that greatest of all entertainment talent: Pure
unadulterated FEAR!
Dave "Wobbles The Magical Clown" Magnenat
Msg #3951 Dated 8:12:24 12-17-90 3922 <--> 3981
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: TRIP
I would definitely be willing to HELP coordinate a MAGIC! get-togather
at the CASTLE. With the Holidays coming up I agree with doing it after
the New Year!!
Msg #3952 Dated 8:18:59 12-17-90 3929 <-
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MY FIRST SHOW
We are all behind you Stan!!!! Just go out there and give it your best
shot!!!!
Msg #3953 Dated 8:26:16 12-17-90 3937 <--> 4095
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MY FIRST BIG SHOW
Congratulations Stan!! We Knew you could do it!!!!
Msg #3954 Dated 8:29:22 12-17-90 -> 3955
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: ALL
Re: HECKLERS
I have a subject that I would like to get some discussion on. How do
you deal with Hecklers? One school of thought is to embarass them to
the point were they shut up and the second is to just ignore them. I
have heard several views on this subject but would like the MAGIC! view
since we have such a critical mass of magical brain power here on the
BBS. Give me your thoughts!!!!!
Msg #3955 Dated 10:31:17 12-17-90 3954 <--> 3958
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: HECKLERS
Way back when I used to be a nightclub performer in New York and New
Jersey we had a surefire way of dealing with hecklers...shoot them and
take their jewelry!
(Kinda gets you right into the Holiday Spirit, doesn't it?)
Msg #3956 Dated 11:21:38 12-17-90 -> 3983
From: RICK RUHL
To: ALL
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
That should be my Return to magic.
Tickets for David's show went on sale today for the Atlnata show, I was
1st in line and STILL only got 8 rows back. Who says magic is dead??
His show should be sold out by noon. If any of y'all speak to David,
tell him a MAGIC! member will be in the audience during his Atlanta
show.
My fisrt live performace in 5 years happens this coming Friday. I find
myself being excited about performing. I'm only doing a short show
with the Dancing Cane, What's next, Acatbatic silks, Square Circle and
Zomie. It's our company xmas party and YES, they are paying me for it.
Dante: I have a rough draft of the first article. I'll refine it a
little and upload it and let you take a peek.
Msg #3958 Dated 11:32:45 12-17-90 3954 <--> 3971
From PETE BIRO
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: HECKLERS
I try to semi ignore them if only a one shot. Then I comment on what
they say, or what they heckle about... trying to win them over. If
they continue and the rest of the audience is getting tired of the
heckler then you can nail them. At one club I worked at regularly the
host would often quietly walk to their table and tell the guy to knock
it off. That works best as you don't get involved and stay friends with
all. The basic thing is to be 'SO WELL LIKED BY YOUR AUDIENCE' that no
one heckles you!
Msg #3959 Dated 11:35:26 12-17-90 -> 3964
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: THIEVES EVERYWHERE
I guess I just don't understand the business. Or maybe the world.
I just picked up the latest copy of a major magic magazine and I
see two different advertisements.
Each advertising the same trick.
Each claiming "don't buy the other... because..."
Each advertising a trick that was devised and invented by
someone else. Someone that SOLD the rights to "BUILD FOR YOURSELF
AND PERFORM" -- NOT TO BUILD AND MARKET.
I happen to be one of those that purchased said rights. Now
there are going to be a zillion magicians out there snapping up
this great illusion.
All against the wishes of the inventor, Robert Harbin.
Harbin had a plan, an idea, one that, IN MY OPINION, made
more sense than any others.
He published a book with all the details, the jplans, the
PRESENTATIONS of his wonderfjul effects.
And, unlike the Cervon book (see his reply in Stan Alan's
Inside Magic) the Harbin Book had a PRE-PURCHASE agreement. You
promised not to sell the effects, but when you signed it and
received the book, YOU WERE GRANTED THE RIGHTS TO BUILD AND
PERFORM THESE EFFECTS. WORD FOR WORD if you wanted to!
And when I see all the Zig Zags being built and sold and
performed WITHOUT REGARD TO THE INVENTOR'S AND THE RIGHTS HOLDERS
it really underscores to me the GREEDY have won!
We are doomed.
It is time WE ALL STOP PLAYING BY THE RULES.
Buy the books that say " rights reserved " get booked on the
national TV shows, lectures anything you can do... AND DO THE
STUFF. (Providing it is any good!!!!) Has that area been
factored in? Is some of this stuff any good? Is it worth the
work? Is it entertainment? Each person will have to find this out
on their own. One's piece of non-commercial technical crap could
be another's ENTERTAINING HIT.
How do you find out?
That's up to you.
Msg #3960 Dated 12:08:00 12-17-90 3844 <-
From: MARVIN STERN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: I NEED SOME HELP HERE...
ok, I'll not make it an "Abbott Address Saga".
Rgds, Marv.
Msg #3961 Dated 13:48:23 12-17-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: HECKLERZ
Johnny Lee used to say "Hey, I don't come to your job and
kick the shovel out of your hand, do I?" I used " Hey bring that
guy (girl) another of what ever he/she's drinking on me!" this
usually worked or "Oh, hi mom/dad, when did you get into town/out
of jail?" usually gets a laugh then follow with the "buy a
drink", bit.
Msg #3964 Dated 15:59:06 12-17-90 3959 <--> 3966
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: THIEVES EVERYWHERE
Re: Msg 3959
Don't be discouraged, Pete, there are still plenty of
good people in the world......When I was with Johnny Lee and
Lookin For Love, before JL got famous we opened a show for Ray
Wiley Hubbard who wrote "Up Against The Wall Redneck Mother".
Johnny evidentally wasn't familiar with Ray's work and did Ray's
signature song as one of the tunes in his segment of the show. I
couldn't believe he did it and asked JL if he knew who'd written
the song, he said he didn't know....he was embarrased when I told
him it was Ray. We were on the bus and gone before Ray went on so
I never found out if Ray did it too.
Msg #3966 Dated 16:51:50 12-17-90 3964 <--> 3969
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: THIEVES EVERYWHERE
I'm sorry, I am going to kill myself anyway.
Msg #3968 Dated 18:58:40 12-17-90 3838 <-
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: BOOK REVIEWS
Thanks for the review. I like doing a FEW card tricks. With the books
on card magic I currently have I could practice for YEARS and not get
them all learned. If I tried I know I'd spend as much on analgesic for
my aching hands as I'd spent on the books.
Msg #3969 Dated 19:39:46 12-17-90 3966 <--> 3985
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: THIEVES EVERYWHERE
Let me have your Harbin book then......you better not though cause we
really need you Pete.....tabman...
Msg #3971 Dated 19:56:04 12-17-90 3954 <--> 3982
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: HECKLERS
I wrote an essay on this subject which appeared in _Magick_ in
September, 1977. You might want to look it up, as it contains some
thoughts on this subject usually not considered.
Msg #3972 Dated 19:57:16 12-17-90 -> 3974
From: MAX MAVEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: AUTOGRAPH
Book received, signed, and on its way back to you.
Msg #3973 Dated 20:35:58 12-17-90 -> 3987
From: DENNIS PIERCE
To: ALL
Re: SVENGALI DECKS
Can anyone give me information on the original Svengali Deck I
recently found one that is about 40 years old. Where were they
manufactured? Who made them? Etc.? Also does anyone or any shop rent
magic related videos via mail any help?
Here on the East Coast a local grocery chain (Stop and Shop) is
offering a one dollar bill with Santa Clause picture glued over
president, it is a real dollar bill, if you come across one try glueing
it
to a regular bill alla Ammar's bill change, nice for the
Holidays. Thanks alot. P.S Jim Sista ...don't forget a copy of your
newsletter.
Msg #3974 Dated 20:59:52 12-17-90 3972 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: AUTOGRAPH
Now I'm a believer!!! Check your mailbox on compuserve cause at the
same time you were sending me this message on MAGIC! I was sending you
one on CIS inquiring about the book. I was on CIS cause you were on
MAGIC!......this is great...you're a nice guy to boot...Happy
Holidaze...your friend...the tabman...
Msg #3981 Dated 23:16:28 12-17-90 3951 <--> 3998
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: TRIP
Great! I will leave the planning in your hands. I'd suggest that we
pick a date (I assume a Friday lunch) and give people at least 2 weeks
notice on here. Don't know if the MAGIC! buttons will be ready by
then, but maybe otherwise we can figure out some other way to identify
each other. Worse comes to worse, I have a big bright orange pin that
reads "OFF DUTY" and I could wear that and everyone could find me. Or,
if someone wants to loan me a bennie with a propeller on top, I could
wear that... Nah, might be mistaken for a run of the mill Castle
member.
Msg #3982 Dated 23:20:04 12-17-90 3971 <--> 3991
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: HECKLERS
Not everyone is going to have an easy time tracking down a September,
1977 copy of Magick, so maybe we can ask Max to post a couple of his
hints here...
Here's a little of my view -- first, prepare yourself... sooner or
later you are gonna be heckled. Second, consider your goals -- there
are two: A) to keep the audience on your side, and B) to silence the
heckler if possible. Usually, the first reply to pop into your head
only plays into the heckler's hands -- either because he's got all the
time and inclination to reply, while you are trying to figure out how
to go on from there (you just started playing straightman to his act),
or it is rude and the possibility exists that you just delivered the
audience to him.
Once in a while you can hit right with a fast rejoinder, but chances
are very against you. Once though, I was playing to a private club and
was doing something with a range of numbers between 1 and 10,000 (I
forget what) and the spectator picked 47. This guy, evidently their
chief heckler, yells, "Ten thousand numbers to pick from and the guy
picks 47???" I instantly said, "Only because he was trying to guess
your I.Q." Evidently, it was the PERFECT barb at the PERFECT guy, the
audience roared, broke into applause, and I had 'em in the palm of my
hand... (where I probably also had a card, making things crowded).
Anyway, the point is, it worked once and only that once -- it was a one
in a thousand shot, but it just felt right and I went with it.
OTHERWISE, I think your best bet is to stay in your character and do
whatever will keep the audience on your side. Without the audience,
the heckler has no one to play to.
Msg #3983 Dated 23:32:17 12-17-90 3956 <--> 4096
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
Great to hear that you are getting your hands back into magic, Rick!
Let us know how it went!
Msg #3985 Dated 23:34:18 12-17-90 3969 <--> 3986
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: THIEVES EVERYWHERE
If you hit B for back at the end of this message, you should get to
#3969, which is the one from Tabman about the Harbin book.
Msg #3986 Dated 23:37:16 12-17-90 3964 <--> 3993
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: THIEVES EVERYWHERE
Hey! "Up Against The Wall, Redneck Mothers" is still one of my
favorites! Right along with "Red Necks, White Socks, and Blue Ribbon
Beer," and "If You Don't Like Hank Williams, Honey..."
Er, we now return you to MAGIC!...
Msg #3987 Dated 0:41:47 12-18-90 3973 <-
From: T A WATERS
To: DENNIS PIERCE (X)
Re: SVENGALI DECKS
The Svengali deck is generally believed to have been invented by
Burling Hull -- it has been marketed for well over half a century; is
there any indication of manufacture on the case for the deck you have?
Msg #3991 Dated 8:49:39 12-18-90 3982 <--> 3995
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: HECKLERS
Great LINE>.... I thinki I will ask yoiur permission to use it. OK?
Msg #3993 Dated 8:50:45 12-18-90 3969 <--> 3994
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: THIEVES EVERYWHERE
Tabbo... this is a re-try at the message I tried to write to you last
night, but some guy named Dave interrupted and I got lost in the
navigational aspect of finger flinging on the keyboard, forgot to his
"S" and lost the 600 line reply I had written to you... forever.
I am now wide awake and I forgot what I had written to you.
I guess it was... NO WAY AM I GOING TO KILL MYSELF AND LET TABMAN HAVE
MY HARBIN, ALBO, FECHNER, GOLDSTON, JARRET AND 'SIGNED ERDNASE' BOOKS.
Msg #3994 Dated 8:52:53 12-18-90 3986 <--> 4021
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: THIEVES EVERYWHERE
Friend of mine is planning to open a series of Tanning Parlors in the
South that only do necks.
Msg #3995 Dated 9:21:06 12-18-90 3971 <--> 4010
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: HECKLERS
Is it in the CASTLE library?
Msg #3998 Dated 9:31:23 12-18-90 3981 <--> 4023
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: TRIP
Sounds good I'll get to work on it ASAP!!
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