MAGIC! - 09
The following was compiled from the magician's message section of
MAGIC!(tm). 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 1991, 1997 by MAGIC!, All rights reserved.
Msg #4002 Dated 14:21:50 12-18-90 -> 4005
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LOBOTOMIZED RABBITZ
Wait just a minute.....you've got my attention now.......
Signed ERDNASE...Still wondering if you got my MAX FAX...went to
a lot of trouble finding just the right picture of Malini in an
old Sphinx magazine.....got a great Christmas card from Michael
The Great Ammar a few days ago and its been leaned up against one
o the candle sticks I keep on my desk for after dark (got eight
of em and they give off a great light)....computers by candle
light....my wife calls me Tabman Franklin cause I've got my great
grandaddys gold wire rimmed glasses with my perscripts in em on..
Life at Springhill...looking forward to a nice managable bungalow
in the forest.....anyway, this card from Michael had an airliner
running into Santa and the sleigh, etc on the front. It took me
four days (today) to notice the small playing card drawn in the
corner of the pilots window....then it hit me...he's been
watching us again.....I guess he noticed I looked a little down
and out when I saw him in West Webster (CEMK) cause he sent me a
copy o his NEGOTIATING HIGHER PERFORMANCE FEES cassette and gave
me some sage advice.....I love this guy. Out of Bluefield, West
Virginia comes the Secret Service. Turns out the tape is great
and I'm gonna recommend to my bands that they buy a copy. This
stuff is so good it transcends Magic Performance and should be
listened to anyone who sells their services in any artistic
endeavor........I finally got a few hundred double facers and am
putting together a Ray Mertz card in wallet effect. Gotta figure
out how to get their signature off the double facer and onto the
card in the wallet.....Ray hasem initial the back of a pay
envelope in a Himber type which is good though....Richard Hart
suggested I contact magic hands for info on the dart gun effect
which I'e done and am waiting for transatlantic mail....got some
record biz in Germany and may be hitting Nurnburg and Berlin in a
coupla months.......still interested in trix w/ double facers..
theres not a lot of em in print.......anyway. lest I ramble off
the edge its nice hearing from you, I've been depressed lately
but your message cheered me up.....thanx......tabman...
Msg #4003 Dated 14:23:39 12-18-90 -> 4006
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: IMAGICATION
Anyone seen (read/studied) the IMAGICATION book being advertized by T
G Murphy...my book club just sent notice and I don't know whether to
buy the book or not....makes some bold claims and I'm hopping (sorry
hoping) for some feedback so I can decide whether to get it or not..
Msg #4004 Dated 14:25:34 12-18-90 -> 4025
From: TABBY CRABB
To: SYSOP
Re: REDNECK RABBITZ
Theres also "I'm A Redneck" by Vernon Oxford from Hermitage, TN to
consider........thats it I'm outa here......tabman
Msg #4005 Dated 14:47:32 12-18-90 4002 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: LOBOTOMIZED RABBITZ
I had writ you as giant message and it got garbled and David said it
was lost forever in the crax of the keyboard. Tsk.
Malini art was great... is the onluy Xmas greeting I have hung on the
wall. No Candles here, rough wood cabin is too flamable.
I have cheered up. "the money" is coming so I can buy my own joint and
move. Like a dummy, I fell in love with the 2nd house I looked at and
I refuse to look at other property. But, you pays your money and takes
yer choice, as they say in my country.
If you need FAX for the German dealer at Magic Hands lemme know, I
thimnk I got it somewhere around here.
Just viewd a video tape from a German act. He had this Illusion box,
put his lady assistant init and did the usual. Her hand was sticking
out holding a silk. He walks off. Batman music plays, he walks back
on IN JUST A QUICK MOMENT and is dressed ala Batman. Hand hlding silk
is waving madly. He grabs it, opens up and it say: "HELP", he takes out
the viscious stuff sticking in th4 box, opens door and GAL HAS CHANGED
TO TINI TURNER LOOKALIKE (big wig, etc.) and starts singing Tina's
signature "Big Wheels Keep Turnin" song.... I loved it. The guy had
some other great stuff. Thassal fo' now amigo.
Msg #4006 Dated 14:52:44 12-18-90 4003 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: IMAGICATION
I just read Mike Weber's review in Inside Magic and he had mixed
feelings but thot there wuz enuf good stuff.
Msg #4010 Dated 17:46:43 12-18-90 -> 4018
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: HECKLERS
Yes; it was published as a "Bonus Insert" as part of the standard run
of the magazine, so it will be in the Castle library.
The essay was written before home computers were common, so I do
not have it on disk. If someone wants to take the effort of re-typing
it in ASCII and uploading it here, that's fine with me.
Msg #4015 Dated 21:06:45 12-18-90
From: JIM SISTI
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: "PARALLAX" & MORE
I put "Parallax" in the mail this morning. You should have it before
Xmas. Also, if you're interested in unique ideas with double facers,
download my "Jazzy Transposition" (JAZZY.ZIP) and tell me what you
think (if you get "Apocalypse," it was in the Oct. issue). It's "Jazza
Aces" basically, but the double facer makes some really magical
sequences possible. Take care... Jim
Msg #4018 Dated 23:10:37 12-18-90 -> 4019
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HECKLERS
No problem, Pete. But remember, use it ENTIRELY at your own risk.
Msg #4019 Dated 23:12:14 12-18-90 4010 <--> 4037
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: HECKLERS
Max, if you could send me a clean photocopy I could try scanning it in.
Thanks - David Lichtman, P. O. Box 900, Arleta, Ca 91334.
Msg #4021 Dated 23:17:29 12-18-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: THIEVES EVERYWHERE
Hope your friend speaks Southern. Carpetbagging tanners ain't welcome!
Msg #4023 Dated 23:20:50 12-18-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: TRIP
I'm looking forward to this first MAGIC! luncheon at the Castle. Local
MAGIC! members should keep an eye on messages from Darrell for the plan
and schedule. Thanks Darrell!
Msg #4025 Dated 23:33:23 12-18-90 4004 <--> 4046
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: REDNECK RABBITZ
We've gotta get together, Tabman! Out here we've only got one CW
station and it hardly ever plays Red Sovine or "Bonny Fingers" or
nuthin good.
Msg #4034 Dated 0:23:59 12-19-90 -> 4097
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 #4036 Dated 2:00:33 12-19-90 -> 4047
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: RICHARD DIAMOND
Has anyone here seen Richard Diamond (Palace show at the Castle) this
week?
He played the Palace at the Castle a few months ago, and during his
act, my wife excused herself quietly and politely and walked out.
She feels very strongly that his act is very demeaning to women and
portrays excessive violence toward women.
I must admit that I was mostly paying attention to the technical
aspects of his illusions and, while I felt that his act was an
uncomfortable one to watch, I didn't really focus on much more than the
effects and how they were done.
Watching his act again tonight, (without my wife), I was amazed at how
sexist the entire concept seemed. That was it. For example, is sawing
a woman in half sexist and violent toward women. I don't think so
necessarily. But, conceptually, Richard's act sets himself up to be
a leering master over his scantily clad female assistant. He dominates
her from the very beginning...then impales her on a long sword...and
finally burns her in a coffin, producing her burning corpse.
Maybe it's just not my taste, but I do find it uncomfortable and
sleazily offensive.
I'm curious and would be interested in your opinions about this. The
two women in our party tonight both agreed with my absent wife.
Perhaps the sensitivities of magicians need to do some catching up
before the twenty-first century dawns.
Msg #4037 Dated 3:26:01 12-19-90 4019 <--> 4039
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: HECKLERS
Bascom Jones publishes his "Bonus Inserts" on yellow paper, so I don't
know if a scanable copy is viable. I'll give it a try, and if a clean
copy results, I'll mail it to you.
Msg #4038 Dated 7:57:48 12-19-90 -> 4048
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: KAPS ON VIDEO
Pete,
Same chill hit me when I read your message. Wish I lived next to you so
I could hop in tonight and see it myself.
How about our 'old' arrangement for a Kaps exchange??? Are you more or
less unpacked by now???
You have my list, tell me if you are interested.....
Regards,
Arnaud
Msg #4039 Dated 8:33:19 12-19-90 4010 <--> 4064
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: HECKLERS
Thanks Max I'll have to look it up next time I'm at the Castle.
Msg #4041 Dated 9:19:29 12-19-90 -> 4042
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC! BBS LUNCHEON
******* ATTENTION **** **** ATTENTION **** ATTENTION *******
I have been asked by our SYSOP to set up a Friday luncheon at THE
MAGIC CASTLE for MAGIC! BBS Members. First of all I need to know: IS
THERE ANY INTEREST?? If you live in the Los Angeles area or are
planning on being in the Los Angeles area and would be interested in
getting together for a MAGIC! BBS luncheon please let me know. Please
only respond if you are going to be there!! I would like to plan on
Friday January 25, 1991 but I need numbers so I can coordinate with
the Castle Staff!!!
In past luncheons that I have coordinated I have even got them to open
up the downstairs museum for our group and if we can get some people
to volunteer to perform, maybe we can even schedule our own
entertainment for that day.
Who knows maybe this will even become an annual event and years from
now you can say, "AH YES I REMEMBER BACK IN 1991 WHEN VERY FEW
MAGICIANS EVEN HAD COMPUTERS, I ATTENDED THE FIRST ANNUAL MAGIC! BBS
LUNCHEON AT THE MAGIC CASTLE".
Msg #4042 Dated 9:23:59 12-19-90 4041 <--> 4055
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC! BBS LUNCHEON
Barring some unforseen conflict, count me in, Darrell.
Msg #4043 Dated 9:39:31 12-19-90 -> 4067
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: LUNCH
Tabman might come too....
Msg #4044 Dated 9:40:20 12-19-90 -> 4049
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: MUCH SAP
Things are kinda quiet on MAGIC! cuz of the Holidaze. Its
a family time of the year and to those fortunate magicians! with
good families I know you will be enjoying the next coupla weeks
til things settle down again and MAGIC! gets rolling through the
coming decade (1991-2000) and into the 21st century.
For many of us, MAGIC! has quickly become a major part of
our lives, and we are indeed fortunate that our friends David and
Pete have spent so much time keeping us on line and outa trouble.
Thanks guys, you already know how I feel.
As an intellectual medium, MAGIC! is unsurpassed. Where
else can we be part of history as it happens......
For some of us, the holidays can be a lonely time,
especially if we are or feel alone. That doesn't have to be since
there is MAGIC!....
We, MAGIC! as a group, have done some good things in
1990. Remember our uplifting messages to Al Goshman. Pete saw him
at the Castle getting back into performing again. Perhaps we all
played a small part in putting the smile back onto "the bakers"
face. Laughter and friendship are big medicine.
Some of us have made new friends which we will keep for
life because our friends made MAGIC! possible. No price can be
put on this, as it is priceless.
We've openly shared our secrets, opinions, prejudices,
jokes and knowledge with each other sight unseen and for this I'm
thankful. We know each other even before we meet face to face.
Magicians have, through the ages, been good correspondents as is
evidenced here online.
I'm especially thankful for the magicians here who have
taken the trouble to get to know me personally, either by MAGIC!
messages, telephone, letter, or in person. Thanks again, its
great meeting you all.......
BEST WISHES TO MAGICIANS EVERYWHERE, the performers,
thinkers, writers, photographers, mindreaders, programmers,
clowns, sysops, editors, dealers, publishers, collectors,
comedians, deadheads, and politicians....EVERYONE...thanks for
enriching my life.
May I repay you all tenfold............tabman.....
Msg #4046 Dated 10:04:42 12-19-90 4025 <--> 4070
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: REDNECK RABBITZ
DAVID Why not try to do something like they did in NY years ago. There
was a "table" for magicians ever 4th Wednesday for lunch. You could set
up a monthly (or more often) table at the Castle Fri or Sundays?
Msg #4047 Dated 10:07:07 12-19-90 4036 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: RICHARD DIAMOND
Read the Letter to Editor in Inside Magic a few months back about
Diamond from Kevin James' wife!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Msg #4048 Dated 10:08:00 12-19-90 4038 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: KAPS ON VIDEO
Arnaud... I don't know if I can find my Kaps stuff until I MOVE to my
own place. This is only a couple of months away. Keep in touch.
Msg #4049 Dated 10:09:52 12-19-90 4044 <--> 4068
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MUCH SAP
Doggone it Tabb... that's what I was gonna say...
NICE MESSAGE OL BEAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Msg #4050 Dated 11:09:33 12-19-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: SON OF PARALLAX
Hi Jim....thanks for the info, glad it worked out..had me
on edge there for a few days, actually being 40lbs overweight
(Gloria is a great, great cook - come to dinner sometime and see
for yourself) I don't have many edges, but you found one...
Looking forward to receiving the mail from you. I love
playing with folding, bending, tearing, tossing, and twisting
playing cards. I've gotten inspired and am working on a new
"twist" to the Busby 4th Dimension/Card Warp thing.....yawn..I
know...and what I have in mind may be impossible except for the
experts (I'm not one) at this stage and am working to bring it
into reality for the simple minded, like me...if I ever get it
I'll let you know.........thanks again.....tabman....
Msg #4051 Dated 11:10:22 12-19-90 -> 4052
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MUCH MORE SAP
Same to ya....You're one of the greatest writers in magicMAGIC! and I
like reading your stuff......its the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Msg #4052 Dated 14:16:44 12-19-90 4051 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MUCH MORE SAP
i'LL SECOND DAT!, SERIOUSLY FOLKS.... ER, UH, EASY PAL, YOU HAS LEFT ME
SPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEECHLESS
Msg #4054 Dated 15:34:03 12-19-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: BOOKS?
Charlie: I just found a note to myself to see if the following
books on your list No. 2 are still available:
113 - Crandall Bartender Dice Routine
665 - Winchell, the Key to Vent
240 - Guest, Comp. Course of Vent
And what is the Hofzinser book you have at $39.95? I have the
small blue "Card Book" is this different?
Am also looking for the Turk Pipkin book on Clown Juggling Bits.
Msg #4055 Dated 16:01:06 12-19-90 4041 <--> 4058
From: MARVIN STERN
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC! BBS LUNCHEON
Darrell:
Count me in. My office is just down the street from the Castle, and I
make about every Fri lunch. If I'm in town on the 25th, I'll be there,
if it happens. j My office phone is (213) 466-8211.
Rgds, Marv.
Msg #4058 Dated 18:18:35 12-19-90 4041 <--> 4059
From: RICHARD HART
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC! BBS LUNCHEON
I, for one, would enjoy the comraderie of a special Magic! luncheon.
However, those of us with day jobs (GASP!) will probably have a hard
time making a Friday lunch. Perhaps the same could be arranged on
Sunday brunch? That way more of us could make it?
Msg #4059 Dated 20:00:50 12-19-90 4041 <--> 4066
From: STAN LAKE
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC! BBS LUNCHEON
Is January 25th going to be the date for certain? I have two weeks of
vacation I will be available for from the end of December throught
January 13th. Unfortunately, I have to work nearly every Friday. Is
anyone interested in a Sunday get-together? I can always make it on a
Sunday. Later...
Msg #4060 Dated 20:23:26 12-19-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: COIN TRIX
Here's a nice easy to do Copper to Silver routine I have had in
the old notebook for a couple of hundred years.
Set up: Two Copper Coins, One Silver. English or Irish
Pennies work best as they match the size of the Kennedy Half.
One copper coin in your right sleeve. A silver coin in your
right hand a copper in your left.
Openly place the copper coin into a spectators right hand.
Your right hand drops allowing the copper coin in your sleeve to
drop into your right hand. Be careful it does not click against
the Half in your right hand.
Apparently toss the Silver from right hand into your left. I
use a Pinch Vanish move with the Silver, letting the copper go
into the left hand. The Pinch move is simple. You hold the coin
between your first finger and thumb, horizontally. If you just do
a Pinch, the coin goes vertical, the finger and thumb move
together hiding the coin. You have to have the coin just far
enough toward the crotch of your thumb so it does not stick out
at the front "end" of the fingertip and thumb. Hard to describe
without art.
You can use any switch, such as the Bobo, in Modern Coin
Magic as well. I just feel the Pinch vanish as a switch is very
convincing (in my hands) and I am used to it.
Place the coin (they think it is Silver (it is Copper) into
their Left hand.
Say, "Open your right hand" and take the Copper coin. "See
how easy I got it out of your hand!"
Switch it for the Silver, repeating move, keep hand closed.
"I bet I can get the Silver coin out of your left hand easier...
without you even opening that hand!"
Show Silver coin in your hand. They open hand to find it is
Copper!!!!
A second routine I really like uses a Regular Penny, a Giant
Penny and a Silver Dollar.
Palm the Giant Penny and openly show the real Penny and the
Silver Dollar. Ask spectator to open both hands. Toss the two
coins into their hands.
Ask, "can you tell the coins apart?" They will think you are
nuts, as they are different sizes. But you don't comment about
the sizes, you say, "It is easy... One is made of Copper, the
other is made of Silver!" Duh!!!!!
Take the Silver Dollar and switch it for the Giant Copper
placing it into their hand, closing the hand and turning it over.
Immediately pick up the small penny and place onto the back of
their hand (this keeps them from turning hand over and opening it
to see what is in it).
"Actually, this is great, because the size is different too.
I don't know if you noticed. But SHOULD THERE BE A POWER FAILURE
and the lights go out, you can still tell the Dollar from the
Penny!
"I'll bet I can get the dollar out of your hand without you
opening it." As you say this, casually pick up the penny and toss
into left hand (actually switch tossing in the silver dollar).
"All I have to do is touch your hand like this" (left closed
hand just touches, slightly, against their hand).
"It's done! See, I have the Silver Dollar..." Pause, they
will wonder, then open their hand to find the Giant Penny.
This is by far the most commercial effect. The Giant Penny
is very intriguing, as most spectators have never seen anything
like it. And there is no suspicion of a switch, as they aren't
looking for it.
When switching the small penny out, the Pinch move really
works great, owing to its size.
Msg #4063 Dated 21:08:16 12-19-90 -> 4076
From: DENNIS PIERCE
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SVENGALI DECKS
Thanks for the response, the packaging is a off white board w/ stars
"SVENGALI" Magic Cards, (all four suits, as graphics),Complete
Instructions Included.....Easy to Use.
Inside instructions are from Arlane Mfg.Co.,4462 Germantown Ave.
,Philadelphia, PA.. Cards are blue backed, common card is Joker.
Any info would help.
Still looking for shop / individual that rents videos via mail
does this exist ?
I hope this will perpetuate some input. From CT......Thanks.
Msg #4064 Dated 22:15:33 12-19-90 4037 <--> 4114
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: HECKLERS
OK, give it a try and let me know. Thanks.
Msg #4066 Dated 22:18:25 12-19-90 4041 <--> 4165
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC! BBS LUNCHEON
Wow! Sounds good to me! I've put it on my calendar and look forward
to being at the First Annual MAGIC! Luncheon. By the way, MAGIC! is
NOT a "BBS," it is a "24-hour a day, 365-day a year magic convention!"
Msg #4067 Dated 22:20:55 12-19-90 4043 <--> 4078
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: LUNCH
Hey! If Tabman is coming to the lunch you can DEFINITELY count on me
being there!
Msg #4068 Dated 22:25:38 12-19-90 4044 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MUCH SAP
Tabman, that is SOME testimonial! Seriously, I'm going to print it off
and post it. Next time I'm grumbling about a few hours of work on
MAGIC! I'm going to read it again.
You are right about the priorities. When I look back at MAGIC!'s first
year I'm proud of a number of firsts that our members created, but
primary among them is the first of bringing people together. The
Goshman letters, the meetings that people like you and Pete and others
have had. Those are the real creations that MAGIC! has led to.
And we've had our share of other firsts too -- Pete Biro's live
coverage of the I.B.M. is just one example. What I like is that the
really good stuff - from tricks and tips to the soon to begin series of
Fred Kaps letters to the idea of the Castle luncheon - have originated
from the MAGIC! members.
For 1991 we've got some super plans to make MAGIC! even better and more
exciting, but I also know that together we will create things I never
dreamed of. That's the REAL MAGIC of MAGIC! And yes, I do think that
years from now people will look at MAGIC! as the start of something
significant.
It's people like you, Tabman, people with vision and belief and the
willingness to invest in phone calls that have made it happen. So you
aren't alone out there in Charlotte Hall, Tabman, you are a member of
a frontierless community.
Msg #4070 Dated 22:40:26 12-19-90 4046 <--> 4080
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: REDNECK RABBITZ
Darrell Murphy is working on creating a MAGIC! luncheon here in L.A.
'Course, we could all just bring our lunch over to our computers and do
it by modem!
Msg #4076 Dated 0:44:39 12-20-90 4063 <--> 4113
From: T A WATERS
To: DENNIS PIERCE (X)
Re: SVENGALI DECKS
Only thing I know about Arlane is that when I was a kid going to the
Magi-Fests in Columbus Ohio, they always had a dealer room -- sold a
lot of pyro stuff and novelties.
Msg #4078 Dated 12:50:33 12-20-90 4067 <--> 4100
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: LUNCH
Not me. I don't like the food there.
Msg #4080 Dated 12:52:27 12-20-90 4070 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: REDNECK RABBITZ
Now there's a plan!
Msg #4082 Dated 14:51:48 12-20-90 -> 4083
From: TABBY CRABB
To: JEFF BUSBY (X)
Re: CARTOONZ
YOU'RE TOO COOL!
Msg #4083 Dated 16:55:00 12-20-90 4082 <--> 4088
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CARTOONZ
Busby is not TOO COOL. I am... cause it is snowing here, not where the
Buzzer lives!
Msg #4084 Dated 16:55:32 12-20-90 -> 4116
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: KAPS ACE TRICK
More from my 1972 Notebook, entitled "Simplified Kaps Aces".
This is straight from notes, if there are details left
out...sorry...but the knowledgeable cardiste will be able to
figure this out. I just found it, have a little time and thought
to upload as a message just for fun!
Aces are face up in this order: Club, Red, Red, Spade.
On top of the deck 3 Queens, bottom of deck the remaining
Queen.
Hold break under top two cards of deck, drop the Aces on,
face up, thumb off, (your right hand has the Aces and 2 Queens)
Black, Red, Red -- then drop the rest on top saying, "and the Ace
of Spades".
Deal from right to left, 3 cards face down, saying, "an Ace
here, one ace here, another ace here (accidentally drop the Ace
of Spades FACE UP) and the last one here (turn back face down).
"I put 3 cards on the "Big Ace" -- turn 3 cards face up
showing a Queen. Now (here is where I am not sure what you do,
but the word for word is): Bottom Type Turnover Deal, face down
onto the Ace of Spades.
Pick up deck, "riffle it" and do bottom of deck switch with
Left Hand Aces on Table. And at the same time turn up the other
cards, THEY ARE QUEENS. Pick up the Ace of Spades and drop onto
the other three, turn all over and Elmsley Count to show they are
all Aces.
Now, if any of you experts out there can re-construct this
and post the full details, would be great... as I recall seeing
this as a tremendous effect.
Msg #4085 Dated 16:56:26 12-20-90 -> 4103
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: KAPS LAYMAN ACT
An evening at the "Dutch Club" with Fred Kaps. Here was Kaps at
his best, entertaining in his own language. Part of the Review
Show Fred worked with for so many years travelled to various
parts of the world to entertain Dutch people that formed social
clubs. One such club was in Oakland California. I was privileged
to attend with him in 1972.
Fred Kaps entered the stage in evening dress with acane,
reading a newspaper. He then rolled the cane into the newspaper,
took a salt shaker from his pocket, "salted" the packet and
vanished the salt shaker with a toss into the air.
Newspaper unrolls, cane has vanished and he is seen reading
the newspaper, by the light of a large lit candle. He places the
lit candle into his breast pocket.
A sequence of card manipulations follows, with appearances
of canes throughout. He throws the canes off stage.
During card work a candle appears, he puts it away.
He places a card in his mouth, held by his teeth, boomerangs
a card in the air and catches it on the one held in his teeth.
Takes out a wallet... it is shown, casually and
disgustingly, empty. A wave, he opens it back up and produces a
handful of paper money. With these bills, he does a diminishing
card type routine, the smallest bills suddenly turn into a stack
of coins.
He follows with the Vernon Coins in Handkerchief routine. (I
have never seen this in print).
Next is his wonderfully acted out version of the Homing Card
(published by Hugard and Braue).
The Classic Chinese sticks, with the 3rd stick is next and
he closes with the Salt trick -- a steady stream of salt pouring
from his hand as he walks offstage. Kaps gets a lot out of this
as there is wonderful byplay with the band, the music stops, the
salt keeps coming and he has to get the band to pick up the music
again.
Other acts, singers, etc. work, then Kaps is brought back
for a second spot. The first was all done silent to music, the
second spot is all talking -- in Dutch, so I have no idea what he
said... EXCEPT HE WAS GETTING SOLID LAUGHS THROUGHOUT. Note: The
Chinese Sticks in the first segment did use patter...again solid
laughs.
Second spot: Kaps opens with the Spot Card. I do know that
he says something like, "to make the card you need a shoe box.
You removed the sides, throw them away, you don't need them. Then
you glue the top to the bottom, to make a single card." (I know
this because I asked him what he was saying during this trick).
His patter was really strong, mostly attitude, rather than
crazy comedic patter. It was his style and seemingly being fooled
by himself that made the audiences like him so much and laugh at
the simplest of comments.
Next was the Slydini Cut and Restored rope trick, where he
winds up with Slydini's handling of the Professor's Nightmare.
One sequence with the rope finds him taking a red silk
handkerchief from his pocket, tieing it around the rope (held
vertically with his foot on the bottom) and as he slides the silk
up and down the rope, he stops at one point and pulls it to the
right and it comes off, penetrating the rope. The know is still
in the handkerchief.
Following the rope routine he does the "Sucker Explanation"
color changing silks (the Ken Brooke SUCKER SILK version) and he
closes with the Pat Page Cards to Pocket. A great version of the
trick, which I would suggest anyone look up in one of the Ganson
Routined Manipulation books. Believe me this is a miracle
version. Page's genius is shown as -- to get rid of extra cards,
instead of palming off -- breaks into a short version of the six
card repeat!!!!!
So there you have it... the magic of Fred Kaps for laymen.
I might note for historic reasons that two of his tricks were
actually "taken" from Roy Benson's wonderful comedy act. At the
time (Kaps was a teen-ager) he didn't know this. He was given
these effects (the 3-stick Chinese Sticks and the Salt pour) by
his teacher of the time, Henk Vermeyden. Vermeyden had seen these
done on a trip to the U.S. "stole 'em" and taught the routines to
his students in Holland.
By the time Kaps was a full-time pro, even though the
effects were from someone else (Benson) Fred had changed them and
added so many of his own touches, they were -- by then -- really
his.
error line 55, Know should be KNOT
Msg #4087 Dated 18:52:52 12-20-90 -> 4106
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
I was thinking about going to the dessert seminar this March. I was
trying to come up with a rough guesstimate of costs and it seems that
if my wife and I flew there from L.A. and stayed for three days that it
would run about $1000. That seems like quite a bit. I have never been
to a magic seminar or convention before. Is this really worth it? I
would like to hear from anyone else who has attended conventions to
give me their comments. Thanks!
Msg #4088 Dated 20:05:21 12-20-90 4083 <--> 4231
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARTOONZ
You can have it, I don't want it, its too cool for me!
Msg #4090 Dated 20:08:10 12-20-90 -> 4091
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: PYRO
I've been having fun with the matchboxes you made up for
me from the Magic Castle and wanted to say thanks again. Since
I'm sorta sitting around waiting this one out, I've gotta little
time on my hands and am enjoying magic. The programme from Le
Grand David's show was most appreciated.....I read the story of
how they started it in Genii a while back and am impressed with
their dream and the implementation of such, so the programme is
especially meaningful.....if the money flows again after the
first of the year I'm gonna try to make it to the MAGIC! luncheon
at the Castle....right now its dry, but promising after the 7th
of Jan 1991.....
Msg #4091 Dated 20:30:44 12-20-90 4090 <-
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PYRO
Glad you like 'em. It sure gets the laymen especially when you
seperate them.
Msg #4092 Dated 20:32:32 12-20-90 -> 4107
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: ALL
Re: HAPPY HOLIDAZE
HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL!
May all your wishes appear
and your worries vanish.
My best to all,
Burt
Msg #4093 Dated 20:36:19 12-20-90 -> 4108
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MAGIC! ANNOUNCEMENT
I think the Kaps letters are very exiting. Thanks Pete for making them
available. Fred was a great personality and this is very valuable in
terms of magic history.
Msg #4094 Dated 20:38:34 12-20-90 -> 4098
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MULHOLLAND COLLECTION
Maybe we can get someone who is a friend of magic to buy the collection
from the RTC and put it somewhere accessable. Before I posted the
newspaper article I had seen in another article that was exactly what
was intended. Ricky Jay was to be the curator. Then the Feds stepped
in. Does anyone know how to contact Johnny Carson, Steven Spielberg or
some other mega-buck type? I'd hate to see the collection sold to an
investor outside this country. It would be an absolute crime for the
collection to be broken up.
Everyone should contact their Congressman and Senators. Perhaps we
could get the collection designated as a national treasure. That might
give the Library of Congress or the Smithsonian the clout they need to
keep the collection intact.
Msg #4095 Dated 20:47:06 12-20-90 -> 4136
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MY FIRST BIG SHOW
Sounds like a good time was had by all. Congratulations. How does it
feel to be famous among your peers? It's amazing how the time flies on
stage as compared to rehearsal isn't it? It sounds like you worked well
with the audience, and you did good by trying to make the effects
relate to something they were familiar with- like the story you made up
to go with the Professor's Nightmare. I'm sure they'll be booking you
again next year.
Msg #4096 Dated 20:52:30 12-20-90 -> 4109
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
Have a great time at the Copperfield show. Atlanta is one of my
favorite cities. Most folks out here in California have never heard of
Stone Mountain(Awesome), The great train race,or the Cyclorama. They
just don't know what they are missing!
Msg #4097 Dated 21:00:03 12-20-90 4034 <--> 4110
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: READING MESSAGES
David, Why don't you post this as a bulletin? New users see that menu
first and could read it there andif needed would know where to find it
later.
Msg #4098 Dated 21:17:27 12-20-90 4094 <--> 4121
From: RICHARD HART
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: MULHOLLAND COLLECTION
With his penchant for things magical, and collecting this and that,
I'll bet Michael Jackson would be a good bet for buying the collection.
Tabby, you got a line to ol' slew-foot hidden in that tour bus?
Msg #4100 Dated 22:19:38 12-20-90 4078 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LUNCH
Oh, well if you don't like the food "there," then I guess we could have
it "here." Or, as someone told me on the phone today about a call they
were going to arrange with a third party - "I'll have him call you if
he wants to talk to you, or have him call me if he doesn't want to talk
to you." I told them, "No, have him call me if he doesn't want to talk
to me." Must be time for excerpts from Alice in Wonderland...
Msg #4103 Dated 22:28:51 12-20-90 4085 <--> 4115
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: KAPS LAYMAN ACT
Thank you for the Kaps information, Pete. It is a good lead in to your
Kaps letters that we will be publishing starting in January.
Msg #4106 Dated 22:34:08 12-20-90 4087 <--> 4137
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
I've been going to Desert Magic for several years and have always loved
it. Since I don't go to many magic seminars it is hard for me to
evaluate it against any others, but I have a great time and I learn a
lot. I also figure that the value of a single good idea is $100, so
even at your estimated prices (which I think may be a bit high, unless
you are including your gambling budget), your "payback" would be ten
things. I think you could get that.
Msg #4107 Dated 22:38:07 12-20-90 4092 <--> 4505
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: HAPPY HOLIDAZE
Let me add my wishes to the list --
May you and yours have a wonderful Holiday Season
and a terrific New Year!
Msg #4108 Dated 22:39:05 12-20-90 4093 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: MAGIC! ANNOUNCEMENT
The Kaps letters are indeed a part of magic (and MAGIC!) history. I
too am grateful that Pete decided to make this their home.
Msg #4109 Dated 22:40:53 12-20-90 4096 <--> 4118
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
Never mind Stone Mountain, Cyclorama, etc... there is the FOOD,
glorious Southern FOOD. Hmmmm... Maybe we should hold a MAGIC!
luncheon there!
Msg #4110 Dated 22:42:25 12-20-90 4097 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: READING MESSAGES
Actually, I DO plan to post the "How to Read Messages" as a Bulletin.
But you'd be surprised how many people DON'T ever look at the
bulletins. So I've been trying to drop it in as a message every 500
messages. T'was a good idea when it took months to have 500 messages,
but now it appears every few days...
Msg #4113 Dated 0:24:29 12-21-90 4076 <-
From: MAX MAVEN
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SVENGALI DECKS
The owner of Arlane was named Ed something. He carried mostly gag
props, as well as being one of the first to offer a varied line of pyro
work. I vaguely recall a carny background.
Msg #4114 Dated 0:25:42 12-21-90 4064 <--> 4141
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: HECKLERS
It's in the mail.
Msg #4115 Dated 0:28:01 12-21-90 4085 <-
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: KAPS LAYMAN ACT
Pete, with all due respect to Fred, who was a friend and one I greatly
admired, I'll differ with your comment that the versions of the Chinese
Sticks and the Long Salt Pour were "really his." He certainly added his
own fine personality to those two routines, but they were still his
versions of Roy Benson's routines, and the lion's share of credit must
still go to Benson, without whom the two Kaps routines would not have
existed.
Msg #4116 Dated 0:35:52 12-21-90 4084 <-
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: KAPS ACE TRICK
Fred had a favorite routine, a bit more complicated that the effect you
have described, which might be what you saw, or related to it. It's one
which was claimed by several inventors, with minute variations; the
version I used to do (almost identical to the one Fred did) was devised
by Irv Weiner. Can't remember where he published it -- it might have
been one of his early marketed "Manu-Secrets."
At any rate, the effect is this: four aces and four kings are shown,
and tabled in separate piles. One card in each pile is turned face-up
as a "leader." The leader-cards are exchanged, and the three face-down
cards in the aces pile are turned up to show that they have changed
(transposed) into kings to match their new leader card.
The magician starts to turn up the face-down cards in the other
pile, but stops, saying, "Wait, let's take this a step further." A
spectator was asked to cut the pack, and four cards at the cut point
were dealt into a tabled group. One of those cards was turned over; it
was, say, a ten.
The leader ten was now exchanged with the leader ace. Sure enough,
the three cards now beneath the leader ace were found to be the
remaining three aces. The three cards now beneath the leader ten were
turned up -- and found to be the other three tens.
The method combines a couple of Braue Add-Ons with an X-ing The Cut
procedure; what makes the trick work is the acting which must come into
play -- particularly important, or the effect can get confusing to the
viewer. Fred's presentational ability with this was superb.
Msg #4118 Dated 5:32:19 12-21-90 4096 <--> 4119
From: RICK RUHL
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
Oh yeah, The moutain is great. Then again, I'm from california too, and
a lot of people here have never heard of Mt. Baldy.
Magic is fairly big here in Atlanta. We have 5 magic shops (3 owned by
one person and the other two owned by another).
Rick
Msg #4119 Dated 5:34:31 12-21-90 4109 <--> 4143
From: RICK RUHL
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
YES,YES COME TO ATLANTA! The food is good down here, and I wouldn't
mind having the entire MAGIC! users in town, it would be a blast!
Rick
Msg #4120 Dated 5:35:45 12-21-90 -> 4122
From: RICK RUHL
To: DAVID AND EVERYONE ELSE
Re: TODAY IS THE DAY
Well gang, today is the day I return to 'the stage'. I don't feel
nervous at all, more a tingle all over of excitment.
I'
I'll let you guys know how it went.
BTW, does anyone know the address or phone for a RING here in Atlanta?
Merry Christmas everyone!!!!!!!!
Rick
Msg #4121 Dated 8:13:44 12-21-90 4098 <--> 4132
From: TABBY CRABB
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: MULHOLLAND COLLECTION
Coupla things....thanks for the advice about the dart gun
from Magic Hands...we've written them and await a reply...this
would absolutely kill (pun) the other shooters at an
international shooting match.....gonna get it for my wife (maybe,
unless I like it too much - them we'll share)....also, tried the
ideas about the "brain wave" but used mat finish polyurithane
spray and it works too....thanks again....
Re: Michael Jackson...you can get in touch with Michael
through his agent Creative Artists, 9830 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly
Hills, CA 90212 - 213-288-4545 FAX -288-4800. Thats a great idea
about Michael...if he knew, he'd probably buy it and put it in
his back yard.....saaaaay...I'll bet we could get Michael on here
if we tried.....maybe he'd buy us an 800 number to call in on.
I'll get on it...no better yet, maybe one of you Hollywood boys
could give the agency a call.....MAX could do it. How could
anybody say no to him....Happy Holidaze......tabman...
Msg #4122 Dated 8:14:43 12-21-90 4120 <--> 4138
From: TABBY CRABB
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: TODAY IS THE DAY
Hi Rick...tabman here....best wishes for your show
today...My oldest son (Rob IV - I'm really Rob III) lives there
in Atlanta...he just graduated UnivGA in finance....he was a kid
magician and may get back into it as time goes on...last time I
saw him he was still adept at the french drop and Charlier pass.
Is Pitty Pat's Porch Restaurant still going? Rob IV lives over on
Moores Mill Road with some of his Sigma Nu brothers.
Back in the old days (1952 when I was 7) there was an old
man in Atlanta - Homer R. Hulse - who used to own Atlanta Magic,
I think in the 40s....anyway, he sent me a sliding die box and it
was my first "real" magic trick...It was made of metal with
wooden doors and a 2.5" wooden die...to this day, I hold a very
fond place in my heart for the effect and Homer who died in 53 or
54 (I still have it someplace - never throw that magic stuff
away)...my mom who lives in Americus, GA sez...hey, what about
this dresser with all those tricks and magazines inem...."DON'T
THROW EM AWAY"...I'll be back to getem someday........Happy
Holidaze...
Msg #4123 Dated 9:53:50 12-21-90
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: ALL
Re: SEASONS GREETINGS
I just wanted to send each of you my wishes for a very happy holiday
season. I really enjoy the MAGIC! Bbs and find that it fills a need I
have to spend time with two of my favorite things, magic and computers.
I look forward to meeting more of you in person during the coming
year.
May all your wishes be Magical
and all your Dreams come true
Have a Merry Christmas
and a Happy New Year Too !
Seasons Greetings to You and Yours
From: Me and Mine
Doug and Pam Larson
Msg #4124 Dated 11:12:59 12-21-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: KAPS INFO.
Max... Thanks for your replies re Kaps. I will have to print out
the card one and see if I can work it out.
Regarding the Sticks and Salt... I thought I was crediting
Benson. Just by mentioning same. The real point was that
Vermeyden didn't tell Fred where the stuff came from and by the
time Fred found out he had really personalized the presentation.
But yes, there is no doubt as to the source, which I feel
very, very few people realized.
Benson, I would have to say, is probably one of the highest
people on my list of all time favorites. He's right up there with
Jay Marshall, Ballantine, Kaps, Flosso, Harbin and Richiardi as
those I admired most.
Msg #4125 Dated 11:13:54 12-21-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CULT
Tabbbbbbbbbbbbbb... As Jay Marshall has said about the "cult"
called "Le Grand David" --- "Don't drink the Cool Aid!"
Happppyyyy DAAAZEE (BRRRRRRRRRRRRRR UPHERE)
Msg #4126 Dated 11:14:30 12-21-90 -> 4139
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MAAGICCC
Stan: I would definitely consider the Desert Seminar. Just cause
I am on the Board has nothing to do with it.
Joe Packs more good stuff into a convention than anyone.
And... to me the whole trip will be worth it to see the
DEBUT OF LANCE BURTON'S NEW STUFF.
You read it here on MAGIC! first... Lance has some new
illusions that will blow us away... I saw rehearsal tapes, I
know.
Don't forget, if it cost you $1000 to come, bring a second
Thou, put it on RED and in one spin of the roulette wheel you
will have a FREE TRIP.
You just watch. If you don't do it... you will see RED come
up on the first spin of the wheel you decide to check out.
And by not betting you will kick yourself for years to come.
Msg #4127 Dated 11:15:13 12-21-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: MULLHOLLAND
BURTMAN: Re: Mullholland Collection. The curren Sports
Illustrated has a story about a similar problem with an S&L that
was locked up with a Multi Million Dollar Maritime collection,
models, plans, aritfacts, etc.
It this case a Museum WAS ABLE TO RESCUE and buy the
collection -=- at a reasonable amount as they PROVED it WAS
IMPORTANT to keep the collection INTACT.
I have just heard Milt Larsen is working on a plan to save
the Mullholland Collection. I know Harry Anderson has rescued the
Variety Arts club, Steve Martin is a board member of the M
Collection and Ricky Jay, who is the curator, often works with
Francis Ford Copolla... so RJ "is" connected with the main $$
types in Hollywood.
My guess it is more a decision to be made by the feds more
than finding the $$.
Msg #4129 Dated 13:51:35 12-21-90 -> 4130
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CULTZ
I'm writing a book and its got this guy in it named Mr. Byro (good
guy). You're not gonna sue me are you?
Msg #4130 Dated 16:03:03 12-21-90 4129 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CULTZ
No but Fred Byro will. Matter of fact, my Dad's showbiz name (he and
his partner played the Palace Theater in N.Y. in Vodvil... Was Byron.
The act was called "Gaynor and Byron--a fast pace in a small space".
They were acrobatic stunt rollerskaters and originated the act of
skating up on a platform. Theirs was 4 feet up, 8x8 feet.
However, my Grandfather, when he hit these shores, had a name that was
different... it Was 'BAFIA' and the immigration guys said it sounded
like MAFIA.... So he changed it (in Hungarian, Biro means JUDGE, THE
OPPOSITE OF MAFIA?) to Biro.
Msg #4131 Dated 16:52:15 12-21-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: HISTORIC MATERIAL
Since Roy Benson's name has emerged here on MAGIC! I thought it
might be a good idea to mention some of his material here, for
historic reasons. This review is from a 1970 TV talk show.
Benson was a very original and very funny performer. He
appeared on all the major TV shows in the early days (before
color!). Shows like The Gary Moore Specials, Milbourne
Christopher's One Hour Magic Specials and the Ed Sullivan Show.
He often appeared on talk shows doing simple comedic magic
and some comedy without the magic.
I remember one of his "entrances" -- a wonderful way to come
on stage. He is announced and a Sedan Chair with Four Slaves
carrying it enters. They stop, the door of the sedan chair opens
and out steps Benson wearing a plaid sport coat with a Fez on his
head. He lifts the Fez - there is a bottle of coke on his head,
he takes a sip and throws the bottle offstage.
An assistant bring out his table -- the props are covered
with a black cloth.
He patters: "You know what this is? (Takes off cover) It's a
magician's act. Three years ago I met a Senator. He got his hand
caught -- in a campaign fund. He sold me the whole thing here,
Table, Props, Jokes, everything. For $15.00!
"If you car to examine anything, its out of the Question.
"That's the first joke!
He picks up a candle, lights it, covers it with a tattered
cloth, uncovers and there is in its place is a Flower. As he does
this he says, "Oh see the Pretty Thing!"
He tosses aside the silk and CLANK!!! The candle, a white
Pipe hits the floor. He says, "Isn't that Lovely!"
"No applause... please... it antagonizes the other
performers.
Benson then does the Chinese Sticks. He starts pulling the
strings, as the usual routine. He gets to a point where he asks
the audience if they think they know how its done. Someone says
the string comes out the back. He holds the sticks apart and SURE
ENOUGH there IS a string connecting them. He cuts the string and
continues to do the trick. He gets to a point where the two
tassels are both down, he brings out a third stick and goes right
on with a very funny routine.
He also had a line that only in his style did it work.
"Thank you Dr. I call you Dr. but I call myself A MAGICIAN!"
Another one of his original lines was with music. He is
doing a bit and the drummer just hits the Bass Drum in a
continuous, monotonous beat. He comments: "I wrote the music
myself!"
Another of his lines was; "It's just mind over matter. You
don't mind, I don't matter."
Following the sticks, they went to commercial. When they
came back he was lying on the floor. He did some chat with the
host (I can't remember if it was Jack Paar or Gary Moore) and
said things like: "I'm very paranoid. I can't go to football
games at all, because when they huddle I KNOW THEY'RE TALKING
ABOUT ME!"
And, "People ask me how I got into magic. Well you see I had
no childhood at all!" He then took out a Cigarette lighter and
while talking roasted a marshmallow. And then he took out a fly
swatter and swatted at the floor, saying, "Got him! You know in
June and July I get two at a time!"
There you have a taste of Benson. A very funny attitude
comedy performer and one that I think was the most original of
his day.
Msg #4132 Dated 18:01:47 12-21-90 4121 <-
From: RICHARD HART
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MULHOLLAND COLLECTION
Great idea Tabman! MAX, oh MAXre you listening? Work a little
of your juju on him....
Of course, mebbe we could convince Unka Sam to let the Castle be
caretakers for it. I'm sure Milt & Bill could make a nice home for
it. (Probably just take-over Yamashiro...)
Msg #4133 Dated 19:08:47 12-21-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: FOCUS REVISITED
What a nice surprise! Saaay, is that MCA video of yours still
available?.......Happy Holidaze...tabman..
Msg #4134 Dated 19:09:43 12-21-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: FANTASY
Fred Byro it is. Thanx.....
Msg #4135 Dated 19:32:56 12-21-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: PHRED BYRO
Oh, now I get it. Fred Byro will sue me.....Thats good!!!!!
Msg #4136 Dated 19:41:52 12-21-90 4095 <--> 4146
From: STAN LAKE
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: MY FIRST BIG SHOW
Well, I am still elated over it all. They are still talking about it
and are coming out with a feature article about me on the front page of
their paper! And yes, they have already requested me for next year!
Although I told them I would do the show for free, they voted to
reimburse me for all of the new tricks and props I bought so that was
a nice surprise. You're right about weaving the stories to fit the
audience and how much they enjoyed that. Since the crowd was made up
of all union people and knowing their antipathy for management, I told
them how an apple I was holding could represent the head of a postal
worker. Then I took an apple corer and "cored his little brains out".
Showing the now hollowed out apple to the audience I asked them if they
knew what it was now? I answered for them "A management trainee!" I
thought it might be an amusing little line but you should have heard
them howl with laughter! I had to stop for a minute to let them get
control of themselves. They're still talking about it today! When I
rewatched the video I made you could definitely tell the most audience
reaction came from the magic and humor that had been customized for the
occassion and for them. I'll remember to try and do that as much as
possible any time I am working for a specialized group.
Msg #4137 Dated 19:56:52 12-21-90 4106 <--> 4152
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
Thanks for the answer, Dave. I will discuss with the wife and see how
it might fit into the budget. The way I figured the $1000 was $300
round trip airfare for both of us, $200 for the seminar, $130 for the
S&R show at the Mirage, $150 for meals, $50-100 for taxis, plus they
will undoubtedly be books, tapes, other shows, etc. to purchase.
Do you normally fly or drive there? I have spoken to friends who say
it is roughly a five hour drive. I have only been once and I flew in
about 45 minutes. For me that's the only way to go!
Msg #4138 Dated 20:06:42 12-21-90 4122 <--> 4144
From: STAN LAKE
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TODAY IS THE DAY
Tabman: At least your mom asked you about that dresser drawer full of
tricks and magazines before she did anything with them. My folks
chucked out wooden hand turned ball and vases and other hand made
items. My antique handcuff collection and a set of cuff keys to fit
nearly every known make and model in the world. All of my back issues
of Genii, all my books and all my props! ARRRGH!! I was in the
service at the time and she thought I had "Out grown that stage".
They sold my '67 Mustang too. Guess I outgrew that also!
Msg #4139 Dated 20:15:22 12-21-90 4126 <--> 4154
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAAGICCC
Thanks for the answer, Pete. Would you mind lending me a few thousand
bucks for a few minutes to put on red? Really, the whole Vegas
seminar and trip sounds very enticing. I will be giving it some
serious consideration.
I have been trying to work on the Esoteric trick for a while now but I
am having a bit of trouble with the thread. Mine is fairly kinky and
does not want to drop with the lead weight. I have to pretty much
shake it loose. Have you had any similar difficulties? Once it's set
up it is an astounding effect but I can't show it to anyone until I get
these "kinks" ironed out. Thanks for recommending it. Later...
Msg #4141 Dated 20:37:07 12-21-90 4114 <--> 4168
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: HECKLERS
It's here! The copy you sent was a bit light, but mostly readable by
the scanner. I did some fixes and will be uploading it as a file in a
few moments. Thanks!
Msg #4143 Dated 20:44:41 12-21-90 4119 <--> 4150
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
I may be in Atlanta for an hour or two in late March or early April.
Maybe we can hold a quick MAGIC! lunch! Give my regards to Aunt
Pittypat.
Msg #4144 Dated 20:46:46 12-21-90 4138 <--> 4153
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: TODAY IS THE DAY
Yetch! A lot of my early stuff drifted off in moves and things, but I
still have my original Deland's Automatic Deck and a few other things.
Not too long ago Pete Biro took me to visit someone who has a large
collection of hand turned wooden ball and vases, not to mention some of
the most incredible automata in the World. It was quite a day!
Msg #4146 Dated 20:57:38 12-21-90 4136 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MY FIRST BIG SHOW
It continues to sound like you did a killer job, Stan. Great going!
Msg #4147 Dated 21:02:03 12-21-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: HECKLERS
Max Maven's article on how to deal with hecklers is now in the files
area. It is named HACKLER.TXT It is a republication, with Max's
permission, of his article that originally appeared in Magick in
September, 1977. Good stuff!
Msg #4150 Dated 21:50:25 12-21-90 4143 <--> 4157
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
Yeah...I've taken in a few million calories on Aunt Pittypat's Porch,
myself...(urp!)....Excuse me.
Msg #4151 Dated 22:03:05 12-21-90
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: YULE TIDINGS...
I remember one of my first Christmas Days in Los Angeles...
...90 degrees outside...
I had the air conditioner up full blast...
...A heavy sweater on...
...canned frost on the windows...
...a roaring fire in the fireplace...
...and Christmas lights in the palm tree out front!
Boy, am I enjoying this cold spell we're having this year!
To my old and new friends here on MAGIC!...
...wherever you're spending the holidays...
I wish you the best and most magical season ever!
'Wayne.
Msg #4152 Dated 22:16:27 12-21-90 4137 <--> 4158
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
If you drive to LV from LA stop at the In and Out Burger just before
Barstow. It takes five hours at the speed limit.
Msg #4153 Dated 22:17:53 12-21-90 4144 <--> 4159
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: TODAY IS THE DAY
I lost a $1000 Antique Chair to Suitcase that belonged to Horace Goldin
when I once moved. Got it from Al Flosso and was going to have it
restored by John Gaughan.
Msg #4154 Dated 22:19:26 12-21-90 4139 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MAAGICCC
I don't know why it would Kink. If you get to Seminar we can go over
it. I'll be at Joe Stevens' shop in a week or two and look over the
curent stuff.
Msg #4157 Dated 23:17:04 12-21-90 4150 <--> 4235
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
I know that a lot of locals think the place is just a tourist trap, but
I've always liked Aunt Pitty's. Anyway, I'm glad to hear that magic
(and MAGIC!) is (are) alive and well in Atlanta. It isn't quite your
part of the South, but one of my long range goals is to get back to New
Orleans to get a magic wand. They have some incredible ones there,
like nowhere else in the country. Originally intended for the other
branch of magic, they are REAL MAGIC WANDS for the Voodoo folk.
Msg #4158 Dated 23:21:20 12-21-90 4152 <--> 4178
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
I printed off your message, Stan and will check over your budget. I
did notice that you didn't plan to sleep anywhere - interesting
strategy! In the past I've sworn by flying to L.V., but did drive a
couple of years ago and found that it wasn't bad. I will be driving in
for C.E.S. in January, so will let you know how it goes.
Msg #4159 Dated 23:24:27 12-21-90 4153 <--> 4169
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TODAY IS THE DAY
Sorry to hear about the Chair to Suitcase. But, as someone taught me
recently, "at least you had it for a while."
Msg #4161 Dated 23:30:25 12-21-90 -> 4232
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: HOLIDAY CARDS
Certainly seems that some magi have some wild thoughts around this time
of year...
Michael Amar sent Tabman a Gary Larson holiday card -- shows the front
of a plane flattening Santa and his sleigh. Drawn in on the corner of
the windshield was a small playing card... Couldn't quite tell if it
was on the inside or outside of the windshield, or whether, perhaps, it
had flown off Santa's sleigh.
Busby sends a three panel cartoon. I'd love to quote from it, but he
copyrighted it! Hey, Jeff -- can we tell 'em about it?
Msg #4165 Dated 3:47:18 12-22-90 4041 <--> 4504
From: MIMI HERTZOG
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC! BBS LUNCHEON
Hi Darrell! I am definitely interested in attending the Magic!
luncheon at the Castle. Jan. 25 sounds fine. Please count me in!!!
Msg #4167 Dated 4:35:58 12-22-90
From: RANDY LUND
To: ALL
Re: TANNENS
I just got around to reading a number of messages I have downloaded
over the past couple of weeks and I seen a number of quite negative
comments about Tannens and Tony Spina. Along those lines Marilyn and
I have our own story.
.
Last spring we were just getting into Magic (at least I was). We also
took a long weekend vacation to NYC (frequent flyer tickets and all
that) to see cats and generally bum around the big apple. We decided
on the spur of the moment to visit a magic shop and Tannes was selected
at random from the several in NY. Whene we got there we explained we
were just getting into magic, knew next to nothing, and could they
help. The salesman was a super gentleman and spent almot an hour with
us demonstrating tricks such as Scotch and Soda, Spooky and a number of
others, recommended some good books (he even sent us to Flosso's for a
book he didn't have) and made us feel welcome in the magic fraternity.
This in the big apple where rudeness seems to be a way of life. We
were impressed and that single incident more than any other launched
our magic career. It wasn't until we got home and started to read some
magazines that he gave (free) us that we found out this saleman was
TONY SPINA cheif honcho of Tannens.
.
Since then we have ordered several items from Tannens with no problems,
quick delivery and prompt and courteous phone service. I guess we must
be just lucky........
.
At any rate Happy holidays to one and all.
Msg #4168 Dated 8:01:11 12-22-90 -> 4174
From: GENO MUNARI
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: HECKLERS
There is a great new novelty item on the market called the "Final
Word", and was recently mentioned inNewsweek. I think it is great for
the heckler. There is a "G" rated version and an "X" rated version.
When a heckler gives you a few jabs, simply and slowly, ala Johnny
Carson style, reach into your pocket and hold it up to the mike, and
push the button. It is sure to get laughs and who can argue with a
voice box! Hence the final word. It is about $15.
Msg #4169 Dated 11:08:12 12-22-90 4159 <--> 4175
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: TODAY IS THE DAY
RAT!
Msg #4170 Dated 16:50:05 12-22-90 -> 4180
From: JACK TAVES
To: ALL
Re: MICHAEL AMMAR
FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO LOVE THE MAGIC OF MICHAEL AMMAR. HE WILL BE BACK
IN CALIF. JAN 22ND AND WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THAT HE WILL BE
DOING HIS SECOND WORKSHOP AT THE MAGICAL ARTS GUILD IN CUCAMONGA aka.
THE BEAR GULCH MYSTICS. THIS WORKSHOP IS FOR ADVANCED ONLY AS MIKE HAS
ALREADY HAD ONE WORKSHOP WE WANTED A MORE DEEPER LOOK INTO HIS MAGIC
IF YOUR INTEREST TEDIN JOINING LEAVE ME A NOTE THIS IS FOR ALL IN THE
L.A. AREA SAN BERNADINO. ORANGE CO. AND SO ON THE COST IS $25.00
FOR THE WORKSHOP AND IF YOUR NOT A MEMBER OF THE CLUB THE LECTURE
IS $15.00... MEMBERS FREE OUR DUES ARE ONLY $15 PER YEAR AND WE HAVE
THE GREATEST NAMES IN MAGIC COME TO CUCAMONGA. THE MEETING IS ON THE
FOURTH TUESDAY JAN 22 6PM SHARP TO GET THERE TAKE THE I-10 FWY TO
ARCHIBALD EXIT THAT'S ONE MILE FROM THE ONTARIO AIRPORT. THAN GO NORTH
TO ARROW RT. THE ADDRESS IS 9791 ARROW RTE. YOU MUST HAVE YOUR NAME ON
THE LIST AS THEIR WILL ONLY BE 15 PEOPLE ADMITTED IF WE GET MORE
WE WILL SET UP ANOTHER WORKSHOP LATER.
JACK TAVES PRESIDENT.....
Msg #4171 Dated 18:47:28 12-22-90
From: MAX MAVEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEO
The "Mindgames" video is still in MCA's active catalog, although as it
is no longer new they're not particularly pushing. At any rate, your
local video store can order it for you without any problem. I believe
Joe Stevens also carries it.
Msg #4174 Dated 19:34:46 12-22-90 4168 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: GENO MUNARI (X)
Re: HECKLERS
That could be a near perfect solution, Geno! It gets rid of the me vs.
you status of heckling and totally demeans the heckler. Where can we
get these things?
Msg #4175 Dated 19:36:01 12-22-90 4169 <--> 4177
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TODAY IS THE DAY
No, I don't recall that those were his initials. But what was it the
dyslexic agnostic pessimist said? Something like "Was there a dog?"
Msg #4176 Dated 19:37:59 12-22-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC IN THE COLD...
Brr-r-r-r-r-r! It is around 33 degrees and windy in Los Angeles. And
after trying to use my car keys while wearing gloves, I've developed a
whole new appreciation for you northern magi. I have no idea how you
can do a double lift or a pass with gloves on.
Msg #4177 Dated 19:59:46 12-22-90 4144 <--> 4185
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: TODAY IS THE DAY
Something that I have noticed about many of us magicians is that we
love to collect magic things. I am already filling up shelves with
goodies and I have only been seriously back into it for less than a
year. I am going to build more shelves in anticipation of the next
Castle swap meet!
Msg #4178 Dated 20:04:56 12-22-90 4152 <--> 4179
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
Do you mean it takes 5 hours to get to Vegas or it takes 5 hours to get
through In and Out Burger? We have one here locally and it doesn't
matter whether it is 10:00 am or 2:00 am there is always a long line.
What a cash cow!
Msg #4179 Dated 20:07:44 12-22-90 4158 <--> 4182
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
Sleep? What for?! As I recall the room rates at the Tropicana were
about $85 a night, so for three nights that would be about $255. I
think I will ask to work some overtime!
Msg #4180 Dated 20:15:11 12-22-90 4170 <-
From: STAN LAKE
To: JACK TAVES (X)
Re: MICHAEL AMMAR
I am interested but I do not know if I qualify as "Advanced". Could you
be a little more specific? If you can give me a call my number is
(818) 768-6181. Thanks!
Msg #4181 Dated 20:18:30 12-22-90
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: MERRY CHRISTMAS
I just wanted to wish each and everyone of our Magi members a very
merry Christmas and a terrific and prosperous New Year. It has been a
pleasure to hear from everyone of you and I am looking forward to much
more in the future. I will be gone for several days and I am already
looking forward to getting back on line here! Keep warm and take care.
Msg #4182 Dated 22:19:54 12-22-90 4179 <--> 4186
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
Stay across the street at the Excalibur for aboaut 30 bucks a nite
Msg #4183 Dated 22:20:37 12-22-90 -> 4187
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: MAGICK!
Just noticed nex time I log on will by Nr. 500. Wow, what am I doing
wrong? Actually, I have logged on to the Compuserve Forum and for the
last three days I think there are less than two messages! THis
forummust be INTERESTING.... thanks to all, Tabman and David Especially
for providing lotsa good talk. And to Maven and T.A. for thier
knowledge, etc. etc. Merry Xmas to all and to all a G'nite
Msg #4185 Dated 22:42:45 12-22-90 4177 <--> 4191
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: WHAT MAKES A MAGICIAN?
You know, you've hit an interesting line of thought here. One I would
like to see others join in on. Yes, a lot of magi seem to be
collectors. It seems to be one of the "traits" that cluster around
someone who is interested in and involved in magic.
So here's the topic... What are the characteristics that get someone
started in magic? Love to perform? Ego trip? Fascination with props?
How about it, group?
Msg #4186 Dated 22:48:03 12-22-90 4182 <--> 4193
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
Can you really stay at the Excalibur for about $30? That sounds pretty
good!
Also, of course, there may be some bargain airfares available.
Msg #4187 Dated 22:49:40 12-22-90 4183 <--> 4194
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGICK!
Congratulations on your 500th sign on to MAGIC!, Pete! I think that
next to myself (at 1,116) you hold the record -- although I'm not
sure... Tabman is probably pretty close on your heels. Here's to you
and Tabman, and Maven, and T.A. and... geez, if I keep this up I'm
gonna have to name the whole several hundred magi who make MAGIC!
happen! I just realized something -- if everyone on MAGIC! signed on
and left a holiday (I like Tabman's "Holidaze") greeting MAGIC-08 would
consist of nothing but greetings! Now wouldn't that make an
interesting file for future magic historians?
Msg #4189 Dated 23:01:31 12-22-90 -> 4198
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: STUDIO BURN
No I ain't dead, just putting in some overtime in the studio with a new
group - Nobody's Kidz - be back in full force in a few daze
(definately in a daze)...tabman...
Msg #4191 Dated 9:08:51 12-23-90 4185 <--> 4192
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: WHAT MAKES A MAGICIAN?
Don't know if I have an answear but I've been thinking
about it since I read the msg last night. I've always believed in
magic. Magic is all around us (hopefully) as children and maybe
we simply let it continue. I could tell you about specific
instances that brought me closer, but thats when, not why. I
guess I really don't know.
In daze of yore the magi were the most, most powerful
folk here on the planet. As technology has usurped the charlton's
power it has developed into an art/craft/entertainment form. Its
like music for the eyes ina way. An answear for which no question
has been asked.
An escape from reality...magic has saved my sanity when
external pressures would have crushed me, I could grab a long
forgotten book and always find a friend in the pages and soon
become lost in some quest for magical or historical information.
I guess thats how I became a magic librarian.
You could say that I'm a book colector, though I don't
view myself in that manner. However I do have a coupla
books...nuthin like Bill Miesel (over 5000) or Pete's pal, By
Walker...but give me time....however, each book here is here as a
reference and is used. Books are not some object simply to be
collected, but living (well some were dead from the start) words
from some of the best minds on the planet who chose magic as a
way of using that mind. Most came to me because I was following
some thread of information and from some artists I admire -
Okito, Maven, Devant, Harris, Hofsinser, Annemann, Billy
Robinson, Ammar, Fu Manchu, Mullholland, Vernon, Richardi,
Elliott, Ponsin, Busby, Thayer, Larsens, etc.... Also I see the
common thread that binds these and others like them (besides the
obvious interest in magic) is that for them (and me) magic is
survial....
Hope everyone on MAGIC! responds to this question. As for
me....
Love for the heart;
Music for the soul;
Magic for the mind.
It's no wonder they keep me locked away here in the west
wing......I could be dangerous.....watch out and keep yer head
down.....your friend....tabman...
Msg #4192 Dated 10:39:26 12-23-90 4185 <--> 4200
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: WHAT MAKES A MAGICIAN?
Cheap thrills? Need to be recognized and get attention? They turn to
collectors by accident. You see most of the stuff you buy is worthless
and ends up in a box or drawer. One's spouse might say, "What is all
that stuff?" You say, "I quit collecting butterflies and am collecting
rare secret magic stuff!" Suddenly you have a collection.
Here's another one for you all.... Write down all the tricks you see
performed. See how many are the same. I have just reviewed a dozen
video tapes and I doubt if there are more than 5 tricks anyone does
that none of the others did. When I go to Joe Stevens' first week of
January to look over about 30 acts on tape I will do the same and
report it here.
Msg #4193 Dated 10:43:15 12-23-90 4186 <--> 4202
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
The Excaliber has over 4,000 rooms and I know the rate is in the 30
range and it is EXACTLY ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE TROPICANA. A good
friend of mine is a VP at Circus Circus (they own the Excaliber) and
always gives me a bad time for not staying there as he would comp me.
Msg #4194 Dated 10:44:50 12-23-90 4187 <--> 4203
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MAGICK!
NO
Msg #4196 Dated 10:47:09 12-23-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: MILLI VANILLI
I understand they were "nailed for not singing" but I just heard they
didn't do thier dancing on the video either!
Msg #4197 Dated 10:47:41 12-23-90 -> 4205
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: BEING FUNNY ISN'T
Being the Funny One, the Cut Up -- or Court Jester of the group -
- is not always what people think. It can get you into serious
trouble sometimes, and also lead to a "mis-read" by others.
Here are three examples: Two of mine, one of England's
Funniest Ever comedy magical performers -- the Late Tommy Cooper.
Cooper was doing a stage performance in London, and all the
magicians (whenever he was working they would go because they
never knew what great new stuff he was going to do) were there.
Near the end of his performance Cooper fell to the stage and
was squirming about. Everybody Laughed and Roared at his actions.
Even the back stage crew just laughed. Later someone who was
there said it was "one of the funniest bits they had ever seen
him do".
What he had DONE was die! He had a heart attack and fell to
floor. As everyone laughed he just plain died.
His friends said "He wouldn't have wanted it any other way!"
Wanna bet! My bet is he would have rather lived.
That is one of the extremes. I don't want to go into the
dummies that got killed trying to catch bullets or bury
themselves alive -- I have another whole theory there, this is
just about what can happen to you 'cause you are the funny one of
the group.
About 20 years ago I devised a very simple method of
catching a selected playing card in a real Rat Trap. I had
constructed it much along the same principle as a card sword, if
you can believe that! It used an elastic to release the card from
the back, which, Rube Goldberg-like, came around to the front and
released the spring, the trap catching the card in the process.
Interestingly, I had a letter from someone who made this up
from the Genii article it appeared in, who thrusted the trap into
the shower of cards, AND ACTUALLY CAUGHT (BY ACCIDENT) THE REAL
SELECTED CARD which showed up alongside the Duplicate!!!
Anyway, I was performing this at a meeting of the Oakland
Magic Circle, in Oakland, California (where else?) and while
setting the trap (remember the trap part was ungaffed!!) it went
off catching one of my fingers!
My screaming, wrenching, hopping around was REAL. But the
audience didn't think so and they were laughing like crazy,
saying later, "Biro, that was the best acting job we have ever
seen. How do you "cry" on command like that?"
Oh, if they only knew.
That wasn't too serious, but the following was NEAR FATAL.
Mike Caveney, on an annual basis, throws one great party
around the swimming pool. All his pals are there, which includes
members of the Left Handed League (which includes Harry
Anderson). I mention Harry as he plays a major part of the story.
At the time, I was doing my act on roller skates and was
skating around the pool. It was a typical hot summer day and so,
since most everyone was in the pool at one time or another, I
decided to take off the wheels and hit the pool. BUT, and this is
important, due to a childhood situation I am deadly afraid of
water, I do not swim. But I like to stand in the water, hold onto
the edge and cool down. Seldom ever getting in water any deeper
than my shoulders.
Here I was in the "kids" end of the pool. Harry was down a
little toward the other end. I worked my way over to talk to him,
holding the edge of the pool.
I forgot where I was and stepped back, IMMEDIATELY SINKING
TO THE BOTTOM! I was at the Deep End!
For the next minute or two I was flailing about UNDER water,
occasionally popping into view screaming HELP!!! Everyone was
roaring with laughter. Later they said, "boy you really had some
great, funny moves under water."
About the third time I came up, BLOOD was coming out of my
mouth! And I was sinking fast.
All of a sudden someone had hold of me and pulled me out. It
was my wife Bobbi. She had been at the other end of the pool and
after hearing all the commotion asked someone what was going on.
I think it was Harry that said "Pete is under water doing some
GREAT COMEDY!" Bobbi said, "He can't swim, he's drowning" --
leaped in and that is why today whenever I see Harry Anderson I
ask him if he is still a lousy life guard!
Note: A following message will give you an idea of the
content of a Tommy Cooper show. I took notes as fast as I could,
come make sense, some don't but the amount of stuff he packed
into a show was incredible. Watch for this message sooooooon
Msg #4198 Dated 10:51:31 12-23-90 4189 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STUDIO BURN
We've been missing you around here, Tabman. Hope the new group goes
platnum.
Msg #4200 Dated 10:55:36 12-23-90 4191 <--> 4201
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: WHAT MAKES A MAGICIAN?
Thanks for your thoughtful reply. It would be unfair of me to jump
into an on-line comment on it right now -- gotta think on it.
Msg #4201 Dated 10:57:38 12-23-90 4192 <--> 4206
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: WHAT MAKES A MAGICIAN?
Kinda sounds like how I started collecting cameras, Pete. I had one or
two cherished ones from my childhood. Went to a collector's camera
show and cut a deal with a guy. Suddenly I owned 85 old cameras.
Decided I was a collector.
I'm getting a tape next week that you might be interested in. Guy does
fire eating while balancing a ball on his nose. How's that for
different?
Msg #4202 Dated 10:59:53 12-23-90 4193 <--> 4207
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
Hmmmmm... Hate to short the Tropicanna or hurt Joe's chances of keeping
the Seminar there, but the Excaliber does sound mighty appealing.
Msg #4203 Dated 11:00:59 12-23-90 4194 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGICK!
Yeah, I guess you're right -- it wouldn't.
Msg #4205 Dated 11:05:01 12-23-90 4197 <--> 4208
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BEING FUNNY ISN'T
Certainly some good points there, Pete. I guess it is a good idea to
have someone who knows what is in your act and what isn't. I was at
the Custer Battlefield one time for a restaging of the battle. About
300 troops and Indians on the field. Suddenly a grass fire started
sweeping across and the troops and Indians joined forces to put it out.
Everyone in the audience thought it was a great part of the show, BUT
it WASN'T! It was a REAL grass fire! The audience realized that when
the contemporary fire trucks started pulling up.
Msg #4206 Dated 13:00:11 12-23-90 4201 <--> 4211
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: WHAT MAKES A MAGICIAN?
As long as he doesn't set fire to his balls. Inkadentally... I though
Penn's routine of Fire Eating with his DATE was one of the best things
I have seen in many moons.
Msg #4207 Dated 13:01:02 12-23-90 4202 <--> 4212
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
Don't worry 'bout joe
Msg #4208 Dated 13:01:48 12-23-90 4205 <--> 4213
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: BEING FUNNY ISN'T
I was photographing a Civil War re-enctment in South Carolina once in
conjunction with a NASCAR race. You HAD TO HEVE A VERY HARD TO GET
CREDENTIAL TO COVER THE RACE AND THEY ONCE LOST CANNOT BE RE ISSUED.
So as soon as the War was over and they were getting ready to start the
race I discovered I had LOST MY CREDENTIAL and was going to be gtossed
out of the property! and an Ad agency had paid me thousands in fee and
travel to be there!!! One of the Rebel army guys saw me looking very
upset and asked what was wrong. I expplained. He called ALL THE TROOPS
INTO FORMATION and they walked side by side through this enourmous
field and YES THEY FOUND IT!!! Boy what nice gjuys and what help for a
Yankee from the Left Coast!!!
Msg #4209 Dated 13:04:24 12-23-90 -> 4210
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: COMEDY ACT
NOTES, HASTILY TAKEN DURING A PERFORMANCE BY TOMMY COOPER ON A
SHOW HOSTED BY DAVID FROST..........
Some of the following might not make sense, as it is nearly
20 years ago when I scribbled these notes out.
The point I want to make is twofold: One -- to let the new
members of the fraternity know about Tommy Cooper, and two -- to
show you how much material can be packed into one performance.
Cooper was a very tall man, probably as big as Richard Moll,
who plays Bull on Harry Anderson's Night Court. However, Cooper's
face was almost square, much the shape of a Frankenstein, and he
had an enormous bush of thick, black hair.
He performed wearing a Fez. It was his trademark.
He was as well-known in England as a comedian as, for
example, Jay Leno is here in the U.S. The only difference, Cooper
was a prop comedian. He was funny all the time. He even looked
funny.
He opened the show with the Mongoose Box. (A box you claim
has a mongoose in it, someone is asked to reach in and pet it --
you throw a release and a giant spring Mongoose flies out).
Cooper then brings out a FLAT coke bottle, throws it away saying
"Just had the suit pressed!"
Did a gag with dice in a box.
Performed (very quickly) Ali Bongo's Bongo Bloom.
Picked up a stack of dinner plates, starts to juggle breaks
most of them. Picks up a wine bottle. Can't get the cork out.
Struggles. Give up, turns bottle over cork falls out.
A guy walks onstage, balances an object high on top of a
pole balanced on his chin. Cooper walks over shakes the guys
hand. Picks up a stick to try to balance and knocks the stuff
over the other guy has balanced.
Picks up a vase, takes flowers out, looks for a place to put
flowers...hands to the other guy who drops stuff he was juggling.
One item was an egg, which hits the guy on his own head and
breaks.
Cooper brings out a ladder, juggler climbs ladder, Cooper
gets his finger stuck under guys foot. Guy juggles 3 clubs,
Cooper pulls finger out and guy drops the clubs on Cooper, he
falls to floor.
String Quartet walks on starts to play. Cooper lights cigar
and puts ashes in one's hat. Cooper walks around and one of his
shoes SQUEAKS very loud. Tries to accompany group. Whole sequence
ends up with tea being spilled and seltzer water in his face?
Brick wall is rolled on. He does "detective" mime bit,
sneaking around wall looking for someone. He peeks around corner
and someone hits him in the face with a pie.
Climbs up onto a raised platform to do something but the
floor gives way and he falls through it. Walks over to a table
and it falls over in pieces. Goes to another table that has the
Passe Bottles on it. Starts to do Passe Passe bottles.
Does it quickly a couple of times as huge orchestra plays
accompaniment, he shouts, "That's enough!" They stop.
Waters a flower pot, throws match in pan (flash paper) "Ha a
Flash In the Pan!" he exclaims.
Does Spots off silk trick. Follows this with the Squaring
Circle (metal frame that changes from square to circle) then
picks up rope to try to cut, but it is the Dodging Rope (an old
gag with a thread in rope that when scissors come to it the rope
"dodges" out of the way).
Finally cuts a rope into four pieces, throws into a hat.
Notices thumb is caught in scissors, says, "Anyone have some
soap?" Does the "They're getting close" gag (I believe this was
Ballantine's first).
Picks up two Linking Rings. They won't link. Sets aside
picks up two other rings. "These are the ones!" They link. Does
the George Blake bit with the ring unlinking itself, falling to
floor.
Picks up a bucket. Shows empty. "No water!" Picks up a towel
and says he will put into bucket and it will come out ringing.
Brings it right out and RINGS it, there is a bell inside.
Explains next trick is dangerous, asks audience to be quiet.
Places a chair up on a table. Climbs up onto chair. Says, "This
trick is so dangerous I could break my neck if I don't make it...
so would you please applaud now!" Audience applauds. He says,
"Not enough applause for me to break MY neck!"
Goes back over to Passe Bottles says words in Swahili
bottles change once.
Puts white handkerchief in his pocket and says "I will
change it to black" brings out black handkerchief, tosses aside.
Picks up Vent Dummy, says "Watch HIS lips" does some quick
chatter. Puts hand over his mouth, mumbles "Are you there?" Dummy
says "Yes?" Goes over to suitcase opens it dummy says "That's not
my case!" Throws dummy and case aside.
Picks up the toy with a cone you catch a ball in. Ball is
on a string. He tosses it out it comes back hits him on the head,
he staggers about.
Picks up the 3 Juggling clubs the other guy left on floor.
Does a couple of minutes of gag patter as he False Starts juggle
a number of times. Much like Henny Youngman and his violin.
Drops one club and can't get it picked up, keeps dropping
other as he picks up one. All sight gags.
(Following stuff happened so fast and my note taking was
suffering, so briefly): Hit himself on head trying to balance a
club, throws aside. Does Spring chair (chair flies up he catches
it) asks someone to Think of a Card "this duck will find your
card" You've never seen this before (he blindfolds duck). Well
you're not going to see it now. Throws all away.
Finally does the Passe Bottles at lightning speed.
Produces Rubber Dove and FOLDS IT UP.
Brings up two spectators with hats. One each side of him. He
does a crazy routine with eggs. Putting them into and taking them
out of hats. They get broken and are a mess during the byplay.
Finally says "All the eggs will disappear" say the magic words
"Bridgitte Bardot" -- "Forget Bridgitte" -- does bits with wand
"Remember the Eggs" -- Looks into hats, "I've been doing this for
20 years, this is the first time I've failed" runs off stage
crying. Two guys look into hats, mug, etc. Cooper comes back
holding his Fez. Guys pour eggs into Coopers Fez and leave.
Cooper gets set to toss all out into audience but puts his Fez on
and walks off.
In a later sequence on the show he came out and with
chapeaugraphy loop does several impressions, Uncle Sam, King of
Norway, etc. etc. very obscure references to American audiences.
A very very funny man, worked a breakneck speed.
Msg #4210 Dated 19:08:55 12-23-90 4209 <--> 4214
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: COMEDY ACT
It's worth noting that the inspiration for Tommy Cooper's act was Carl
Ballantine. Also, regarding your story of Cooper dying on stage -- did
you know that this took place during a live television broadcast...?
Msg #4211 Dated 19:22:43 12-23-90 4206 <--> 4218
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: WHAT MAKES A MAGICIAN?
Yeah, Penn fire eating with his date was very good. I thought the most
magical part was how a zhlub like him got a girl like that!
Msg #4212 Dated 19:23:57 12-23-90 4207 <--> 4237
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
OK, in that case I may check into reservations at the other place.
Thanks for the suggestion!
Msg #4213 Dated 19:24:32 12-23-90 4208 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BEING FUNNY ISN'T
Yeah, it was that sort of chivalry that cost us the war. The Yankees
would drop bullets and cannonballs and stuff and we'd be polite enough
to go look for 'em.
Msg #4214 Dated 19:25:58 12-23-90 4209 <--> 4216
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: COMEDY ACT
That was certainly one heck of an act! I guess that there is no
surviving video of Cooper?
Msg #4215 Dated 20:37:02 12-23-90 -> 4219
From: HOWARD SCHWARZMAN
To: ALL
Re: HOLIDAYS
Merry Christmas and Happy New year to all from sunny Fort Myers,
Florida. Laur and I will be away from home 'till after the first.
Howie.
Msg #4216 Dated 21:12:03 12-23-90 4210 <--> 4217
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: COMEDY ACT
Max: Yep, but I forgot what show it was. Ken Brooke was there and told
me about it. See a message I am sending you re: ace trick/Tokyo/NHK
Msg #4217 Dated 21:12:49 12-23-90 4214 <--> 4222
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: COMEDY ACT
I bet there is video. Check the Castle library. The show I saw was in
the USA and I know Bill Larsen used to tape all magic acts on TV.
Msg #4218 Dated 21:13:37 12-23-90 4211 <--> 4223
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: WHAT MAKES A MAGICIAN?
Money.
Msg #4219 Dated 21:14:06 12-23-90 4215 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: HOWARD SCHWARZMAN
Re: HOLIDAYS
Did you bring your bondwell?
Msg #4220 Dated 21:14:21 12-23-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: ACES
Max: Just went over your description of the 4 Ace routine you
thought was the one I was referring to. It's a good one, but not
the one I am trying to recall.
One thing I now remember is that it was a very quick, direct
routine -- over with before you realize it was underway. And that
it was worked out by Fred and Channing Pollock.
What made it so quick and direct was that you really only
had three aces in the final packet but with the Elmsley Count
bluffed it to be four.
Enjoyed your review of the Japan Trip. Looking forward to
getting the final tape of the NHK St. Louis shows.
Have some surprises set for Baltimore -- and will have some
good shows with a TV-less budget.
I think we can start pretty soon to plan some things for
Salt Lake that will go well with NHK. I also see the '93 IBM a
killer as it will be in Quebec.
Msg #4221 Dated 21:43:02 12-23-90
From: TED EGGERS
To: ALL
Re: THANKS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Thanks to all those who responded to my questions about practice and
patter. Some good ideas and suggestions.
Happy Holidays and best wishes to all for the coming year.
Ted Eggers
Msg #4222 Dated 23:13:34 12-23-90 4217 <--> 4229
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: COMEDY ACT
Thanks. It sounds like a great act and I'm glad to hear that there is
a good chance that it has been preserved.
Msg #4223 Dated 23:14:39 12-23-90 4218 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: WHAT MAKES A MAGICIAN?
Score: Biro - 1, Sysop - 0
Msg #4224 Dated 23:48:09 12-23-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC-08
The eighth set of MAGIC! messages - #3500 (Dec. 4, 1990) to
#3999 (Dec. 18, 1990) have been transfered to a downloadable
file. The file is named MAGIC-08.TXT. This means that you can
now go to the file area, download that file, and read the eighth
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-08.ZIP and is about
1/2 the size of the full-text version.
This set of messages includes several interesting effects as well
as book reviews, the first announcement of MAGIC!'s publication of
the Fred Kaps letters, and a number of historical anecdotes, along
with a lot of magic chit-chat.
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 #4226 Dated 7:44:22 12-24-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DESERT??/BALLENTINE
Hi Pete:: I there any cutoff date for registering for the
Desert Seminar?? I note you're on the board over there so
probably know these things..An interesting note, last Feb when in
LA I was over at Bill Smith's shop and we were talking about his
Thurston stuff when I looked over in a corner and saw this beat
up old fibre suitcase with BALLENTINE stenciled on the side. In
asking, it seems it was the case he (Bal) had been using for oh
these many years, but had decided to retire it. Bill was building
him a custom case for his act. Bill has a great shop and is set
up to build just about anything there. He was about half finished
with a HANGMAN illusion for (I think he said) the Kramien Show
and he and Gigi would be going over to work the show (Japan) with
him.................
Msg #4227 Dated 8:19:36 12-24-90 -> 4247
From: TABBY CRABB
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: PARALLAX RECEIVED
Hi Jim:::::Parallax received in fine condition. THANX
again for thinking of me. Hope you and yours and The Magic Menu
have a great holiday and a bright new year. I downloaded Jazzy
Aces and am working on it. I'll let you know what I think when I
try it out sometime next week. Did you ever get in touch with Ray
Mertz re: Magic Menu contributors?...bye......
Msg #4228 Dated 8:21:49 12-24-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DANTE LARSEN
Re: SAY HEY
Just checking on you and to say hello....hadn't seen you on here in a
coupla weeks and came looking for you........Happy Holidaze....tabman
Msg #4229 Dated 9:15:22 12-24-90 4216 <--> 4233
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: COMEDY ACT
Pete,
Tommy Cooper's unfortunate death took place during the yearly Royal
variety show. This very popular TV show is organized yearly, attended
by the complete Brittish royal family, and live broadcasted.
His death was a very strange thing, the audience was laughing very
much, when he collapsed, since they expected another comedy thing to
happen.
I remember the show was stopped immediatly.
I can supply you with many Tommy Cooper bits and pieces from the
Brittish TV, but of course we still have this terrible PAL/NTSC
problem.
Regards,
Arnaud
Msg #4230 Dated 10:45:32 12-24-90
From: HARRISON CARROLL
To: ALL
Re: HOLIDAYS
Happy Holidays to one and all!
Msg #4231 Dated 12:08:32 12-24-90 4082 <-
From: JEFF BUSBY
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CARTOONZ
Hey man, so are you. Always enjoy everything you write. Keep going
at it. Don't know what you're referring to, but glad it gave you some
fun. I'm off to catch a late flight, but thought I'd wish everyone
here a happy holiday season. Wll be back on-line and try to
participate more in the future. Just no time during the season.
Msg #4232 Dated 12:11:07 12-24-90 4161 <--> 4250
From: JEFF BUSBY
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: HOLIDAY CARDS
Sure David. No problem. A little late getting back to you -- just got
on taoday after a week off. Glad you liked it. Best to all.
Msg #4233 Dated 14:13:42 12-24-90 4210 <--> 4241
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: COMEDY ACT
Tommy Cooper was very funny and well loved. His magic shop is still
open...(Tommy Cooper's Joke Shop in Blackpool). It is run by Derek
Lever and his lovely wife, Anne. They were both in Los Angeles not too
long ago and gave an entertaining lecture at the Castle on antique
magic apparatus.
Msg #4234 Dated 14:56:32 12-24-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVE MAGNENAT (X)
Re: GENII
Caught you in GENII this month....Great job....are you still clowning
around?.....tabman...
Msg #4235 Dated 15:56:19 12-24-90 4109 <--> 4236
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
Amen on that southern FOOD! I was skinny 'till I went to the South.
Nuthin beats Southern hickory smoked BBQ.
Msg #4236 Dated 15:57:51 12-24-90 4119 <--> 4251
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
I'd be tempted to fly out from California just for the food. Two of my
favorite places to eat there in Atlanta are Sonny's BBQ and the
Original Pancake House. If you haven't been there give 'em a try. OPH
has this apple thing that is absolutely wonderful....
Msg #4237 Dated 16:00:35 12-24-90 4182 <--> 4238
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
The last ad I saw for the Excalibur was $45/night weekdays. Check the
LA Times Entertainment section for the really good deals. This summer
I got a room at the MGM Marina (also across the street from the
Tropicana, but not near as nice) for only $9.00/night per person double
occupancy.(Don't you just hate it when they quote the rates that way?)
Pete if you don't think it would hurt Joe, I could check into getting
group rates at one of these other places for MAGIC! members.
Msg #4238 Dated 16:07:30 12-24-90 4137 <--> 4243
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
My wife and I make the drive about twice a year. It's no problem at all
during that time of year. It's certainly a lot less expensive than
flying, you have your own car to get around in and you won't have to
pay exess luggage charges for all of the good stuff you'll buy there.
Msg #4240 Dated 16:48:12 12-24-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DANTE LARSEN
Re: DEC GENII
Well, I can see what you've been up to....the first Xmas issue of Genii
to arrive before the date ina while.....on Dec 24 no less...thanks...
Msg #4241 Dated 17:45:24 12-24-90 4233 <--> 4242
From: MAX MAVEN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: COMEDY ACT
Actually, "Tommy Cooper's Joke Shop" opened just this past year, long
after Cooper's death. The name is used with his widow's permission.
Msg #4242 Dated 18:23:35 12-24-90 4233 <--> 4294
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: COMEDY ACT
wayne, nice to hear that -- I didn't know there was a shop bearing
Cooper's name. Happy Xmas, etc
Msg #4243 Dated 18:25:08 12-24-90 4237 <--> 4244
From: PETE BIRO
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
It is better to stay at the HQ, as the hotel gives PERKS based on room
nights during an event.
Msg #4244 Dated 18:25:44 12-24-90 4238 <--> 4252
From: PETE BIRO
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
I'll remember you have a car if I need a lift!
Msg #4246 Dated 19:15:21 12-24-90 -> 4254
From: GENO MUNARI
To: ALL
Re: MERRY CHRISTMAS
X
XXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXX
Msg #4247 Dated 21:04:14 12-24-90 4227 <-
From: JIM SISTI
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PARALLAX RECEIVED
Glad to hear you got the book OK. I've had some real problems with the
mail lately, probably due to the holidays. Didn't get a chance to get
in touch with Ray yet, but am working on catching up on a lot of that
kind of stuff. Issue #4 is definitely a 12-pager! Anyway...Merry
Christmas and Happy New Year. Talk to you soon.
Msg #4248 Dated 21:07:54 12-24-90 -> 4255
From: JIM SISTI
To: ALL
Re: MERRY CHRISTMAS
Just a quick note to wish all of you (particularly David, Max, Tabby
and Pete) a happy holiday and prosperous 1991 from myself and the staff
of "The Magic Menu." Our "MAGIC!" connection has proven to be valuable
to us as we search for new and useful information for the professional
restaurant and bar worker. (Incidentally, just finished laying out
Issue #4 and it's definitely a 12-pager!)
Thanks and best wishes to one and all once again.
Msg #4249 Dated 21:29:46 12-24-90 -> 4256
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: ELVES
Hi fellows....its Christmas on the east coast....have a Merry Merry
....the tabman...
Msg #4250 Dated 0:07:07 12-25-90 4232 <--> 4258
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JEFF BUSBY
Re: HOLIDAY CARDS
Thanks. Will post the description of your card in a few minutes. Best
to you and yours and have a GREAT 1991!
Msg #4251 Dated 0:11:15 12-25-90 4235 <--> 4262
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
You are right! Nothin beats Southern Bar-B-Que! Of course, there are
different varieties. I prefer South Carolina style. And, as Louis
Grizzard once commented... "In North Carolina they use vinegar. But I
believe G-d will get them for that."
You know, what might be interesting would be a dialog on how magic is
performed differently in different regions of the country. Even in
this day of jet travel and traveling lecturers, there are still
regional differences. A couple of years ago I picked up some stuff in
New Orleans that I didn't see anywhere else until last year's Desert
Magic. One item was a routine with a springed stuffed animal, I think
it was called "Rocky the Racoon."
Msg #4252 Dated 0:16:40 12-25-90 4244 <--> 4292
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
Burt -- Remember what Biro did with Seabrooke's car! It is OK to give
him a lift, but DON'T let him anywhere NEAR the keys! And NEVER leave
the engine running! Remember -- this guy has a THING for cross country
racing! (By the way, I once had a cab driver in Vegas that took me
STRAIGHT to my destination -- through two hotel parking lots and the middle
of a vacant lot. The transit police or whatever they call them were
writting him up as we got out of the cab).
Msg #4254 Dated 0:26:19 12-25-90 4246 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: GENO MUNARI (X)
Re: MERRY CHRISTMAS
Geno! That was incredible! THANKS!
__ _
/ ) / _// / _/_
/ / __. , __o __/ / o _. /_ / ______ __. ____
/__/_(_/|_\/ <__(_/ /___ <_(__/ /_<__/ / / <_(_/|_/ / <_
Msg #4255 Dated 0:27:40 12-25-90 4248 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: MERRY CHRISTMAS
Glad to have you and "The Magic Menu" around here, Jim. Thanks for all
your contributions during the year.
P.S. - I do hope that you are "plugging" MAGIC! from time to time.
P.S.S. - When do I get to see a copy of the improved Menu?
Msg #4256 Dated 0:29:09 12-25-90 4249 <--> 4268
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ELVES
Christmas is moving west, Tabman. It turned into the 25th while I was
on-line. Out here we're thinking of you. All the best!
Msg #4258 Dated 0:48:34 12-25-90 4232 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: HOLIDAY CARDS
Here's a verbal description of Busby's three panel cartoon Xmas
card. Picture a boy sitting on Santa's lap.
SANTA: "And what do you want for Christmas, my boy?"
BOY: "A reader deck of end strippers with the face cards in
red Aviator backs and the rest in blue Tally Ho's. I
want the..."
SANTA: (Looking a combination of bewildered and like he's been
hit by a truck...)
BOY: "Aces, twos and tens in a rough/smooth set-up and all the
clubs and two eyed jacks have blank backs and all of this
in a jumbo deck, please."
WORDS: "Multiple choice for a gag ending"
SANTA: "(1) The U.S. Playing Card Company will cry like babies!"
"(2) Now you know why I'm gray!"
"(3) The Elves in the workshop are gonna CRAP!"
"(4) Don't hold your breath, Twerp!"
NOW, here's my (sysop's) FIFTH choice...
"(5) Oh, Crap! Tabman's working on a new trick!"
Msg #4262 Dated 5:54:09 12-25-90 4251 <--> 4263
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
Sorry to dispute your thesis, but the spring animal gag dates back many
years, and is hardly unique to New Orleans. Of course, the guy who has
kicked up interest in it of late is David Williamson (who lives in
Virginia), but he's not the first, although arguably the best.
Msg #4263 Dated 10:03:30 12-25-90 4262 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: DAVID COPPERFIED AND MY R
Max, you ARE incredible! I've been sitting here trying to figure out
how many mainframe hard disks we would need if we did a "core dump" of
everything you know! I think that Dialog Information Services might
have enough -- after all, the Library of Congress card catalog is one
SMALL part of what they have on-line.
Of course, the spring animals go back many years, and, of course, I was
refering to the most recent incarnation. The one I have is from "Magic
Masters" of Lithonia, Georgia. Its particular design is credited to
Jules Edelstein, who performed under the name Jules Kallen.
Msg #4264 Dated 10:42:52 12-25-90 -> 4270
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: GENO'S NEWEST FILE
Here's a real holiday present for you! Geno Munari, our own "expert at
the card table," has uploaded a 19 page report on blackjack and the
"Scams, Swindlers and Cheats" that can occur. You'll definitely want
to read this one before the MAGIC! meeting in Las Vegas!
"Of Scams, Swindlers and Cheats" is in the MAGIC! files area as
SCAMS.TXT. For those who can use ZIP, there is a zipped version
(saving approximately 60% in download time) as SCAMS.ZIP.
THANKS, GENO!
Msg #4268 Dated 11:05:28 12-25-90 4256 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: ELVES
Somehow it missed the upper Left Coast... well, maybe next year
Msg #4270 Dated 11:07:54 12-25-90 4264 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: GENO'S NEWEST FILE
thanks geno from me too
Msg #4276 Dated 17:19:13 12-25-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: NEW FILES
Geno Munari has added TWO MORE files today! The first, GOLFTAPE.TXT,
provides a preview of his new golf video, exposing gambits for winning
at golf, and starring Rich Little. Anyone who plays golf will want
this video, and you are reading about it first.
In addition, Geno has uploaded his "best questions and answers about
blackjack." A companion to his Scams file, BJQUES.TXT is chock full of
inside gaming information.
These two new files are in the MAGIC! files area. As a reminder, to
list the files from the Main Menu...
o Type F for Files and press the ENTER key.
o Type L;13 (the letter L followed by a semi-colon [;]
followed by the "MAGIC! number" 13) and press the ENTER key.
Msg #4278 Dated 18:32:03 12-25-90 -> 4280
From: TABBY CRABB
To: GENO MUNARI (X)
Re: GOLF TIPS
Hi Geno...I dropped you a msg a coupla months back but it must
gotten lost somewhere along the line. I enjoyed your swami gimmik
effect you put up in files a few months ago. I had asked you a
question about the usability of the BOON gimmik, but have since
found its mostly (for me) unusable. Howie Schwarzman gave me a
coupla tips onit so may try them out as I bought a lifetime supply
after reading about the thing. Have you ever used one in your
swami work???.....I'll be downloading your golf scams monologue
tonite or tomorrow as I do love Golf and scams too. I used to play
golf with Willie and the Boys at Prednales Golf Club in
Spicewood,Tx but noticed the IRS were gonna auction it off to the
highest bidder....Oh well, I'm glad I caught it while it was
happening....Thanks for all the good stuff you contribute here on
MAGIC!...maybe I'll get a chance to say Howdy when we all get
together at the Desert Seminar in March...........tabman...
Msg #4279 Dated 20:16:25 12-25-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: GRINCH
The Grinch was here this year... but thanks to MAGIC! the pain was
reduced somewhat.
Happy Holiday to all and to all a good night.
Msg #4280 Dated 20:39:38 12-25-90 4278 <-
From: GENO MUNARI
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: GOLF TIPS
Thanks very much Tabby. I just left Joe a couple of weeks ago. We
hosted the newest close-up convention in Las Vegas called Close-Up
Conjuring. It will be an annual, un-advertised event. Hope to see you
in Las Vegas. Thanks again.
Geno Munari
Msg #4283 Dated 22:33:50 12-25-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: NEW FILE
Geno Munari, MAGIC!'s own expert at the card table (and expert at many
other things as well), has added a BLOCKBUSTER file. In the MAGIC!
files area as BLACKBK.TXT the file describes the "Black Books" kept
by the Navada Gaming Control Board and others. These books are used to
identify the various folks who should be excluded from casinos!
Remember, Geno's INSIDER REPORTS should be treated as CONFIDENTIALLY as
any other magic information.
Msg #4284 Dated 23:35:55 12-25-90
From: GARY PLANTS
To: ALL
Re: CHRISTMAS
Merry Christmas to everyone on this BBS. It is a great way to keep in
touch with the West Coast action. Keep up the good work.
Msg #4285 Dated 0:35:15 12-26-90
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: THANKS
Charlie,
I just wanted to leave a note thanking you for getting the books that
my wife ordered from you. I had a very special and Magical Christmas
thanks to your help. She used the underlined book list I left laying
in a conspicuous place and ordered some of the books I wanted for my
collection. I only hope the other one arrives soon. You know I can
hardly wait to look it over. Thanks again and I only hope everyone was
treated by Santa Clause like I was.
Hope to be able to get more soon.
Doug Larson
Msg #4286 Dated 0:51:31 12-26-90
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: NEW FILES SECTIONS!
---> NEW FEATURE! <---
The MAGIC! Files List has been remodeled! Now, in addition to
listing ALL the available files by using L;13 (the letter L
followed by a semi-colon [;] followed by the "MAGIC! Number" 13),
you can list MAGIC! files by the following different categories:
1 - MESSAGES - Previous messages converted to files
2 - TEXT FILES - Information for reading
3 - PICTURE FILES - Pictures and programs for viewing
4 - CATALOGS - Items you can order
5 - AMIGA PROGRAMS - Programs designed for Amiga computers
6 - MS-DOS PROGRAMS - Programs for IBM's & clones
7 - MAC PROGRAMS - Programs for MacIntosh computers
8 - SPECIAL - Unique items
9 - NEW FILES - Files which have been received recently
Now, when you just type L at the File Menu (and press the
ENTER key) you will be shown a list of categories that actually
work!
We will still keep category 13 for those who like to see ALL
available files and for those who download the list to read later.
Please let me know what you think of this new feature, and let me
know if any files are miscategorized.
Msg #4287 Dated 6:20:15 12-26-90 -> 4300
From: RICK RUHL
To: ALL
Re: MY FRIDAY SHOW!
It was so much fun getting back on stage. I started off vanishing an
egg and pulled the rubber chicken out of the Presidents coat, got a
good laugh. Then I went into the Dancing Cane, what's next, acrobatic
silks, square circle and ended with Zombie. Got alot of applause. It
make me REAL happy. Yes, I am back to being a Magician again!!!!
BTW it was videotaped, so I can watch it over and over again.
Rick
Msg #4288 Dated 6:24:32 12-26-90 -> 4303
From: RICK RUHL
To: TABMAB DAVID AND BURT
Re: STUFF
Tabman: I live aboout 30 miles from Athens, in Suwanne, home of the
Atlana Falcons.
The only real magic dealers in Atlanta now are Eddie's trick shope,
owned by the McKinnon Clan. They are very good people.
David: Would love to meet you for lunch. Let me know some exact times
wehn it gets nearer and we'll '
'do lunch', as the Yuppies in Buckhead say.
Burt: Oh we go to Sonny's once a week or so. Great food and near my
current employers (gads, yes, I do have a real job).
Everyone: Do remeber though, I still love california, I was born in
Ontario and havent been back since 1972. Guess I need to make a trip,
huh?
Everyone have a safe holiday season.
Ricker
Msg #4289 Dated 8:41:04 12-26-90 -> 4304
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: CAFFINE THEORY
Dear Dr. Lichtman:
It does seem that I have a propensity for gimmiked
playing cards. And while the corner cut card oft times finds its
way into my deck, sometimes you will also find doublefacers and
at times even a doublebacker put to use.
Please don't come to the conclusion that I use these
convoluted cards to fool some innocent spectator; nay, though it
is possible that the use of such appliances can and do on
occasion fool the unwary, I use the aforementioned instruments to
fool myself.
Today, in my laboratory we are hard at work devising new
implements of cardial deception. As I write in my dusty, candle
lit corner of the west wing library, the gnomes are almost ready
to show me the latest of their inventions - the triple faced
card. Our use of the triple backed cards is now well known to
those infrequent visitors to the estate, and soon the triple
faced card will hopefully bring me closer to complete self
deception...the ultimate six card repeat using only two cards.
After many hours of late night study in the almost
forgotten tomes of Rob't Houdin and the brilliant works of J.
Hofsinser, we find that those masters of conjuring only briefly
mentioned the use of triple faced cards. However, they failed
miserably in their attempts to transmugify red pips into black.
We have, and I'm quite proud to admit, have devised a way to use
the blood of the common mole (we do not destroy these proud
animals, they willingly volunteered as donors after we promised
to keep the dogs from digging up their tunnels) as red/black ink.
In an attempt to set the record straight, the triple
facers were inspired after one P. Biro, of the left coast,
demonstrated to us that it is possible to split a match box
simply by pounding it on a table top. Unfortunately, I have been
unable to recreate the proper sequence of events, as I must
admit my brain was clouded by some potent he required us to sip
shortly before he began his demonstration. We have at least found
that it is somewhat like catching fish, where one must "hold your
mouth right".
I regret while writing this letter, that I must soon
cease to type and to attend to some new, and similarly,
undistinguished task in the laboratory, for while I am the genius
mind behind this and other soon to be revealed technologies, I
have been forced to sign an agreement not to use the Van de Graf
generator while others are present in the lab and to restrict my
moments and acts of genius to times early in the morning while no
others are present in the east wing of the mansion. Much to my
surprise I learned only yesterday that while I myself am present
here, I cannot operate the equipment under the agreement. Until
such time as I can reach a new, and less restricted agreement
with myself; we must occupy ourselves with wick trimming, staying
out from underfoot, devising new and different versions of card
warp, and attempting to tear a card into without actually
touching it.
While closing, please remember to send me those green
flyers when available as I must travel to Europe soon and am
desirous of some alternate means of conveyance. I am happy for
your upturn in events and am confident of likewise, mine, for as
evidenced by your efforts at sending the freezing temperatures to
the folks who live near the warm waters of the Chesapeake Bay, I
must soon depart this place and seek comfort in the green hills
and moist hollows of central Tennessee.
Your attempt at the partial changing color of my hands
has been effected, however it is fraught with many moves and
until you have devised a cleaner and more direct method of
accomplishing this same effect please try to turn the snows which
are to arrive sometime tomorrow back to the north where they
belong and return my hands from the blue color they now show to
their normal shade of green.
Respectfully,
___ |_
| /-\ |_| |\/| /-\ |\|
Ps...I have been experimenting with your theory and use of pasta,
chocolate, and caffine to induce the creative state....more to follow
as time permits.....
Msg #4290 Dated 9:47:41 12-26-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: GRINCH
Dear Mr. Byro:
I've been giving some thought (oh no!) to your reference
to the grinch and noted the date of your last transmission as
being December 25, 1990. Please describe this creature, as there
have been similar sightings coming in from other locations on the
planet.
According to my figures and revalations, the coming
decade promises to be a brighter one for magie and true lovers of
the art. Just moments before Dante destroyed those crystals at
the beginnings of Bagdad I was able to catch a glimpse of the
future.
MAGIC! binds us in a way that mere thought cannot and
with prudent and thoughtful use can unleash the secrets of the
Master Within. You are right about it's power and through its'
continued application I'm confidant that you can keep this
grinchlike creature from, not only your door, but that of your
brothers and sisters here online.
I must pause to re-light the last of my candles before I
begin the trip to the fourth floor to search for the candles my
grandmother stasched there in 1938, and will continue to write
til the last glow. Please, if you see our esteemed colleague
Burtman ask him if he would be so kind as to supply me with two
or three more boxes of matches from the Wizard's Castle up on
Franklin Hill as these bring me great comfort when the candles go
out.
I look forward to the exchange of message files from the
Dutch BBS and would imagine that others across the big pond will
hopefully follow. Is there any news on this front? In reference
to your revered Mr. Kaps, I have in this library a tiny monograph
on him by Henk V. His setups were sometimes elaborate, but the
classic miracles he seemingly effortlessly performed have brought
me much enjoyment and amazement through the pages of this little
book and look forward to your sharing of his private thoughts
with us when the Letters From Kaps series begins.
Again, "regards to you", may I quote my favorite Maven,
"from across the miles of the great computer network". Holiday
Greetings to you.......tabman.
Msg #4292 Dated 12:16:30 12-26-90 4243 <-
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VEGAS CONVENTION
What kind of perks? Is it really worth paying double what a nearby
hotel would charge on a per night basis?
Msg #4293 Dated 12:37:30 12-26-90 -> 4296
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: BURGER BURGER FRYS
I have recently seen advertisements regarding the 2nd
edition of Eugene Burger's THE PERFORMING OF CLOSE UP MAGIC and
since I did not buy this book the first time around would it be a
wise purchase for our library here ? With so many new books
coming out, it isn't possible to buy them all, and I hope to only
add significant books which will be used for years to come.
I found the aforementioned Mr. Burger's SPIRIT THEATER
significant especially because of the interviews with Max Maven
and Tony Andrusi. We bought his red paperback to see what a boy,
magician, and prositute would have to say to each other, and I
found, as anticipated...not much; though his presentations with
ordinary objects is quite exceptional and he has the commanding
presence necessary to perform in such an arena. All in all an
excellent writer and I suspect the Performance book is quite
good.
We would appreciate any comment on this subject offered
as I have a growing interest in spirit magic. The ghosts walk the
banks of the Coole Springs and the candles cast an pale glow on
the library walls even in day as I sit bundled against the cold
and gloom outside.
Would also utilize comments about his other K&G book The
Experience thereof. We are budgeted for only five books this
month (Jan 91) and are already awaiting Phil Temple's DANTE and
am considering Michael Jeffries currently advertised interview
book which looks quite interesting. Eventually all these minds
will be on MAGIC!. Marking my words.
Did you read Mark Tripp's column in GENII this month with
his cleft pallet joke and wondering why they thought he was
making fun of the handicapped....what a -----!
Don't forget to comment on the Burger Books if you will,
also considering adding Fulves to the library.....where do we
start???
Respectfully,
_|_ |_
| /-\ |_| |\/| /-\ |\|
tabman
Msg #4294 Dated 14:02:05 12-26-90 4241 <--> 4295
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: COMEDY ACT
Well I'm glad she gave her permission. Perhaps it will serve to keep
his fond memory aloft.
Actually, it's called "Tommy COOPER Joke Shop"---(no apostrophe-S).
Msg #4295 Dated 14:06:42 12-26-90 4242 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: COMEDY ACT
Thanx, Pete...My Christmas was very nice indeed...although a bit
bleary-eyed after spending much of the night putting together a Lionel
train set for the boys. Santa brought my older son, (age 5), his very
first Magic Set! If I could only find a way to bottle that wonderous
look they take on!
Msg #4296 Dated 16:26:42 12-26-90 4293 <-
From: JIM SISTI
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: BURGER BURGER FRYS
Both of the Burger books published by Kaufman are worth owning. "The
Performance of Close-Up Magic" contains excellent material on the real
work with a cigarette pull and "The Experience of Magic" features
Burger's wonderful versions of Brainwave and Card Warp. Both volumes
contain, more than tricks, Burger's unique and highly valuable
philosophies concerning our art. I would purchase these two books
before anything else you mentioned on your list. (BTW, Issue #4 has a
brief interview I did with Eugene a few months back. That's the same
issue that will have "Torn" in it. Best wishes for the new year... Jim)
Msg #4297 Dated 17:07:54 12-26-90 -> 4311
From: RANDY LUND
To: ALL
Re: RICE BOWLS
I received a set of rice bowls for christmas which work real nice, but
no patter was suggested nor have I seen any suggested patter in any
books. Does any one use this effect and if so any patter ideas. The
two we have come up with so far are the thrifty shopper who buys (can
only afford etc.) only 1/2 the rice needed but winds up not only with
all the rice but the water to cook it with as well. The other would
use a biblical reference to either my cup runneth over or feeding the
5000.
Thanks, any help would be appreiciated.
Msg #4299 Dated 17:57:47 12-26-90 -> 4301
From: MAX MAVEN
To: ALL
Re: L.A. ENGAGEMENT
For those in the L.A. area, I will be doing an extended run at the
Comedy Store from January 3 to February 23. I'll be doing an 80-minute
show upstairs in the "Belly Headliner Room" every Thursday, Friday and
Saturday. The club is at 8433 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. Showtime is
8:00 PM. For information: (213)-656-6225.
Msg #4300 Dated 20:28:59 12-26-90 4287 <--> 4302
From: STAN LAKE
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: MY FRIDAY SHOW!
All of that laughter and applause, it's music to your ears isn't it?
I'm glad all of that hard work paid off and here's to wishing you much
more fun and success!
Msg #4301 Dated 20:40:48 12-26-90 4299 <--> 4307
From: STAN LAKE
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: L.A. ENGAGEMENT
Thanks Max, I'll be sure to catch your show!
Msg #4302 Dated 22:50:47 12-26-90 4287 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: MY FRIDAY SHOW!
Congratulations, Rick! Sounds like you came back with a flourish!
Msg #4303 Dated 22:52:09 12-26-90 4288 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: STUFF
Hey, Rick, we'll see what we can do. Right now I'm only scheduled to
spend about an hour in Atlanta, sometime around end of March/front of
April. Will keep you informed as plans develop. Yeah, I've seen
Buckhead... Most of my friends live in Stone Mountain.
Msg #4304 Dated 22:53:51 12-26-90 4289 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CAFFINE THEORY
Oh, NO! Tabman! Do you know what you've done??? Centuries from now
magic historians will be trying to decypher all the references in that
message! Diabolical!
And more than that -- it tells us THE TABMAN IS BACK! In full swing!
"Cardial deception" indeed!
Well, we won't have to use candles here -- the "great computer network"
is pulsing with a strange green glow...
Msg #4307 Dated 23:02:13 12-26-90 4299 <--> 4309
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: L.A. ENGAGEMENT
Does this mean we can tell people that we now know someone who has a
real job? Seriously, congrats on the extended booking. It also means
that you will be in town for a while and, therefore, on MAGIC!
Msg #4309 Dated 23:42:09 12-26-90 4299 <-
From: RICHARD HART
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: L.A. ENGAGEMENT
Glad to hear of your extended run, Max. I, for one, will be sitting in
the front row several times!!!!
Msg #4311 Dated 9:01:11 12-27-90 4297 <--> 4354
From: TABBY CRABB
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: RICE BOWLS
Hi Randy......
I've been looking for references for the rice bowls here
and haven't found any patter suggestions...why not take the
obvious route and stress the fact that the effect is an ancient
oriental effect and do a story about a Hindu begger and some
cantankerous old Chinese Conjurer giving him a way to not only
feed himself, but also his friends or something along those
lines. You've probably already come up with something, but I've
always liked the rice bowls and did them when I was much younger,
not that 45 is that old.
What kind of bowls did you receive?? There are several
books that I haven't checked yet so if I find a patter reference
in one of them I'll be sure to let you know.......tabman...
Msg #4314 Dated 12:24:12 12-27-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: BURGER FRYS BURGER
Hi Jim.......
Thankx for the info on the Burger Books....I ordered
them both this morning.
If you want a good laugh when you're catching a buzz
with your magician friends do Card Warp using as the torn
card a double faced card so when it slides through it
changes value and suit instead of going inside out like
normal and watch their eyes bug out for an instant....Where
you go after that I'm not sure, but you'll be laughing so
hard it won't matter...yet am working on a way to make
several changes, finishing with the card completely back
showing before you tear them in half.....Walton's version
of Card Warp is also good also as a "You Do As I Do" effect,
but you already knew that...in 1985 or thenabout Ben Harris
of Australia came up with an idea based around sawing
(tearing) a lady (Queen) in half...I forget what its called,
The Lady Divided I think...there is an impromptu version but
it has a coupla impossible moves associated with it, still
an excellent premise and one that could be used following
Walton's Card Warp if you can avoid tearing the cards in
half at the end and use the gimmiked card as the Lady in
Harris' routine...then tear em in half after the climax...
give one half to the key spectator and you keep half...
premise being "...so neither of you will ever forget the
experience", or a momento of the event or some similar
opprobrium.
Fires burn,
Candles brook,
Image forming in the nook.
Display glowing,
Parsimonious owing,
Magi's rhyming in the book.
Chrystals shattered,
Dante's lathered,
Fogs the craven one's last look.
Anyhow, thanks for the counsel, it is tough making
these decisions by ourselfs. MAGIC! is worth the time
because of the thoughtful response to my questions from this
end........Thanks a Million...........tabman...
Msg #4315 Dated 12:44:53 12-27-90 -> 4324
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC! LUNCHEON
********** THE 1st ANNUAL MAGIC! LUNCHEON **********
Well it looks like January 25, 1991 will be the day for our first
annual MAGIC! Luncheon at the MAGIC CASTLE.
There were some suggestions for other dates like for Sunday Brunch
and so on but for right now we will stick with Friday the 25th of
January for our first endevour and if someone else would like to head
up a Sunday Brunch get-together for another time GO FOR IT.
At the current time I have a list of 3 maybe 4 attendees. If you plan
on attending and have not RSVP'd then please write me a message
NOW!!!! I need to make reservations and so I must have some figures
to give to the CASTLE coordinator.
REMEMBER
DATE: 25 JAN 91
PLACE: THE MAGIC CASTLE IN HOLLYWOOD
TIME: TO BE DETERMINED (GOING FOR 11:30am)
Msg #4316 Dated 13:26:25 12-27-90
From: RICK RUHL
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC VIDEOS
Do any of y'all have some of the old copperfield TV specials on tape,
and would be willing to copy it so I can see them?
Thanks
Rick
Msg #4317 Dated 16:11:25 12-27-90 -> 4325
From: MARVIN STERN
To: ALL
Re: BICYCLE PLAYING CARDS
Don't know if this is of intrerest to anyone, but I think it's a good
price. Thrifty's has a sale on Bicycle cards, poker or bridge,
regular or jumbo index, at $1.00 per deck. You are supposed to use a
coupon. However they didn,t ask me for it when I bought some. Anyhow
usually when you walk into the store, there are coupon books available,
in piles, just inside the entrence. If they're out of stock, they will
give you a rain-check. Am I right? Is this a good buy?
Msg #4319 Dated 17:23:14 12-27-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: YOU NAME IT
Tabman -- Your propensity for Gaffus ala Kardus has me wondering
if your knowledge encompases that which is known as a card with a
"Cridge"?
What it is (I was going to let you sweat a few days, but was
able to get a hit man to take care of the Grinch, JUST IN TIME!!)
Soooo... the Cridge is a card with a "self adjusting and moving
CRIMP" -- This was devised by the late Ken Brooke. He took me
into his confidence and described the full workings to me. I will
be pleased to show you this at the Las Vegas Desert Seminar.
Some day I will do a lecture on the Cridge, and hopefully
will be able to condense it into an hour.
Ooops nearly forgot. You, in order to be privvy to the
Cridge, MUST BRING THE VERMEYDEN BOOK ABOUT KAPS to Las Vegas.
Hopefully you are not on Geno's LIST and can come to Las
Vegas!!!
Msg #4320 Dated 17:23:57 12-27-90 -> 4337
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: CRIDGE
Are you familiar with Ken Brooke's Cridge card?
Hope to see you at the store I'll be there the week of the 20th for a
day or two (will miss the 25 Jan. Magic! lunch -- if Tabman is there
will he pick up the TAB?
Msg #4323 Dated 17:25:37 12-27-90 -> 4335
From: PETE BIRO
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: LICE BOWLS
Randy: I need to know which method of Rice Bowl you have. If it
is the copper type with the Water Loaded inside a double bowl, I
have a great bit of business that HELPS cover the removing of the
tape, or whatever you use, over the hole that lets the water run
into the other bowl.
Heck, I'll just put it here for all on MAGIC! to see anyway,
somene else might be able to use it.
The main problem is you have your rice bowls on the table,
one on the other and have to PEEL off this dumb piece of tape to
let the water begin to flow.
The real problem is there is not cover, misdirection, etc.
as you need to do it at a point in the trick that needs help.
So, I went the opposite route and not only do it openly, but
CALL ATTENTION TO IT!
WHY? HOW.... OK, here 'tis.
Use a piece of 3/4-inch wide WHITE adhesive or plastic tape.
With a black pen scribble a Price on the tape. Make a little
folded back section so you don't have to struggle to peel it off.
At the point where you need to remove this tag. Openly
comment in an "aside" to the audience, like you are letting them
in on something private.... say, "Can I tell you something? This
doesn't have anything to do with the trick I'm doing, but DO YOU
KNOW WHAT THIS TRICK COST? LOOK I'LL SHOW YOU!"
Openly peel the tape off, show the audience and read the
price, "Two Hundred Fifty Bucks..... of course they throw in the
rice..."
You have done it right under their noses... and openly...
which is most fun!!!!
Regarding Patter. Why not talk about airline food? Tell 'em
you took a flight on Air India and the Coach passenger's had to
roam first class and beg for rice? Once you got some, being
clever wizard that I am I was able to double it for the rest of
the passengers with me in stearage.
Then to celebrate, I turned it into Chinese White Wine and
we toasted one another, etc.... ??? Just another angle.
I remember all the lousy patter books when I was a kid
saying things like "When I was in India.....
You could take that approach only TONGUE IN CHEEK.
Jade, from San Francisco, used the standard rice bowls,
silent, to music, to win the Gold Medal at the St. Louis IBM,
remember the great interview Dr. Lichtman did then? Its still in
the files (plus a picture of this pretty lady).
Just had another thought.... use Leno's theme about the drinking of
Northwest Pilots??? Hmmmm. Whatever, use the Fred Kaps approach, Think
About it. Even after you think you got it think some more.
Msg #4324 Dated 17:28:19 12-27-90 4315 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC! LUNCHEON
If I haven't already said so -- count me in for the First MAGIC!
Luncheon at the Castle, January 25th!
Msg #4325 Dated 17:29:16 12-27-90 4317 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: BICYCLE PLAYING CARDS
$1.00 a deck for Bicycles is a VERY good price! Especially for bridge.
For some reason, they put poker and jumbo index on sale much more
frequently than bridge. Thanks!
Msg #4329 Dated 22:39:31 12-27-90 -> 4332
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: HOT HOT NEWS !!!!
FLASH!! YOU READ IT HERE FIRST... ETC. ETC. BLAH, BLAH, BLAH...
HEY WAIT A MINUTE THIS IS REAL NEWS AND IS A SCOOP!!!
Mike Caveney and Bill Smith have bought the CARTER SHOW. The
entire kit 'n kaboodle (if anybody knows a better spelling, let
me knw). All the illusions, the posters, the crap, the amazing
memorabelia, the TRUNKS full of letters to and from the like of
Houdini, photos, stuff, more stuff, and more stuff... OH WOULD I
LIKE TO HAVE SOME OF THE STUFF!!!
Cave will no doubt be able to do a GREAT BOOK on Carter. Smith,
we hope, will restore some of the illusions (but not to slick,
Bill, the old patina is what makes some of that stuff so great)
like the Spike Cabinet, the Davenport Spirit Cabinet... Oh, what
great stuff (you see I know this stuff, as I performed a Jillion
Shows at the Carter Magic Cellar and literaly lived within this
stuff) -- Oh, what a deal.
I know the money they were asking, and even if they paid
that amount it was a good deal. Hopefully (and I am sure they
did) they were able to negotiate it down 10 or 20 Gs....but what
the hey, you only get a shot like this once.
The way Turk Murhphy and Pete Clute found the stuff in the
first place was a killer story. If you don't know and want to
know ask me and ye shall recieve. But not tonight.
SCOOP NUMBER TWO!!!!!
David Copperfield made a bid of $2 Million for the
Mulholland collection.
But my secret sources tell me he U.S. FED. GOVT. TURNED IT
DOWN. And it looks like all the stuff will go to Swan Galleries
in New York City for auction.
The fear among those that don't want to see this collection
to go auction is that a rich Frenchman (theman that has been
buying tons of American Magic History) will snap up much of the
choice stuff.
If this does happen, I surely hope that John Gaughan, Ricky
Jay and James Steinmeyer are able to get their personal
possessions out of the lock up before things are moved away to
auction. I'll be checking on this in the next few days.
SCOOP NUMBER THREE!!!!!
The Grinch is Dead! Said Grinch nearly ruined Christmas in
these parts, but thanks to friends (many here on MAGIC!) and
others -- that came to my rescue -- the kid here had a very merry
Christmas after all. The commercial-ism the extravagence the B--
-S--- was gone. I figured out what this whole life is all about
in the last couple of days... and it is a great scene. Just think
about it. If you were created as a rock, or a lump of lead, you
wouldn't see anything, hear anything, feel anything, know
anything, etc. But you got a shot at being a thing called a
person. That's all you need, a shot at it. Take your best shot. I
plan to.
Msg #4332 Dated 23:15:37 12-27-90 4329 <--> 4356
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HOT HOT NEWS !!!!
Incredible, Pete! THANKS for the SCOOPS! Let's see... if your info
goes "public," some of the leading magic newsletters MIGHT be able to
get it in on time -- awfully close to their January deadlines, they
might be in print already... So those not on MAGIC! MAY hear about it
as early as Jan 4th or 5th, or maybe not 'til Feb. Of course, if they
do get it in under the wire for their deadlines, I hope they DON'T pull
the news about the Fred Kaps Letters starting on MAGIC! in January to
make room for these items...
Msg #4335 Dated 23:35:37 12-27-90 4323 <--> 4339
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LICE BOWLS
HeeeeHeeeeHeeeeeeee!!!
Peeling the PRICE TAG off the bottom of the rice bowl!!!
Heheheheheh! Pete....you are PRICELESS!
I love it!
Msg #4337 Dated 4:30:18 12-28-90 4320 <--> 4341
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CRIDGE
Not familiar with "cridge" -- any relationship to a Snap Crimp?
Msg #4338 Dated 8:10:33 12-28-90 -> 4342
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LE CRIDGE
Hiya Pete....
I'm glad you had the Grinch wasted. That SOB even showed
up here a coupla minutes the other day...glad to have seen the
last of him. We knew you could doit.
That book I was writin with Mr. Byro init is probably
gonna be a movie instead. My pal who works with those guys who do
all the great adventure/fantasy classics is gonna pitch it to his
bosses as soon as I get the treatment done...that is when they
finish treating me I'll work on the treatment...get it?
I'm sorry to hear that the Swan is gonna be auctioning
off the Mullholland Collection, but maybe I can bid on one of
Houdini's toothpicks or something like that. Will it be a mail
auction, or in person. If its in NYC, and I'm still here, I'll go
up and report onit if possible....Certainly your pals will be
able to get their stuff outa the lockup...this is still America,
or was last time I stuck my nose outa my sleeping bag....
Its getting heavy around here. The USArmyReserve
requested my wife, the Captain, to send in copies of her
passport, shot record, and dog tags a coupla weeks ago. Her dad,
ex head of the USA Marksmanship unit, told us they'd already
called the first 40 people from the unit a few daze ago...If my
baby hasta travel to the desert, I won't be able to go anywhere
til she getz back, unless I can find a qualified house, dog, cat,
bird sitter.....by the way, just cuz my name is tabman, doesn't
necessarily mean that I will be picking up the tab...maybe we'll
cut the cardz for it...here, use my deck...
Ref: CRIDGE.....am looking forward to seeing it. Not
familiar, but sounds cool. Saaaay...where are you getting your
mail these days...I'll send the Kaps monograph out so you can
take a look at it and won't have to worry about bringing it to
the Desert (if Gloria isn't in the Desert).......
Respectfully,
_|_ |_
| /-\ |_| |\/| /-\ |\|
tabman
Msg #4339 Dated 8:32:44 12-28-90 4335 <--> 4355
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: LICE BOWLS
Wrong season. Its HOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHO
Glad ya likeit. Now this is a perfect example of what Fred Kaps used to
say... THINK ABOUT IT. Then my "add" was, even if you have thought
about it... and feel it is all set.... every once in awhile THINK more
and change it.... keep thinking. More of this later.
Msg #4341 Dated 8:41:27 12-28-90 4337 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: CRIDGE
Max, the Cridge will be sent to you in a PRIVATE message. It is too
good to let out.
Msg #4342 Dated 8:43:18 12-28-90 4338 <--> 4363
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: LE CRIDGE
Same ol PO Box 1009, Gualala, CA 95445. Won't move til first part of
FEb at soonest. Waiting for the loan decider t cough up the 200K I
need. The Cridge, too good for general consumption, will be sent to you
privately later today. I hope you made up a Macro for your now sig, its
great...
Msg #4347 Dated 9:55:32 12-28-90
From: JOE RYAN
To: A
Re: WANTED
looking for compleat set of magick mag if you want to sell yours call
me after 4pm est 716-647-1180 thank you, joe
Msg #4354 Dated 18:52:22 12-28-90 4297 <--> 4367
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: RICE BOWLS
Why not use sand instead of rice and patter about the current mid-east
crisis. The sand seems to continually increase but hidden in the sands
is an oasis (the water)....
just a thought,
Burt C.
Msg #4355 Dated 18:58:07 12-28-90 4335 <--> 4365
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: LICE BOWLS
Or, you could do the Penn & Teller version and use real LICE!! Wouldn't
that make a great follow up to the bee production?
Msg #4356 Dated 19:57:40 12-28-90 4329 <--> 4358
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HOT HOT NEWS !!!!
I'm sure all of us would like to hear the full story on how that
collection was acquired! Where do you get all these great scoops?
Msg #4358 Dated 21:25:19 12-28-90 4356 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: HOT HOT NEWS !!!!
I have a nose for news.
Msg #4360 Dated 22:05:29 12-28-90 -> 4368
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: YOU ASKED!
Please don't get me started on Ken Brooke stories. OK, you did
ask.
One day Ken went to Woolworths, bought a cheap roll of
wallpaper. He then went to a bus stop. Got on the rear (you know
the English buses, with the spiral staircase going up the back!)
and as he got near the top of the steps, stopped and let the
wallpaper unroll down the stairs.
There was a big crowd trying to get on the bus. He just
shouted to them, "Come on, it's OK, I just wanted you all to see
the nice wallpaper I bought for my little boy's room. That's ok,
come on, don't worry, its ok to walk on the paper" etc. etc.
Next bit. He puts a couple of handfulls of coins up his
sleeves (the denomination I forget, but it was the coin that fit
a cigarette vending machine).
He walks up to a vending machine, pretends to put a coin in,
then starts to hit the machine. He lets all the coins fall out of
his sleeves to the floor, yelling... "I hit the jackpot, look,
look at all the money I won!"
The best bit was the Impressions of different levels of
magicians.
Ken said, (with a group hanging about in the studio) "Here's
my impression of three different magicians coming into a magic
shop. The first, the PRO. (Ken would go out the door, shut it and
then let everyone wait about a full minute - he loved bits like
this, sometimes just leaving and going home) -- after the wait
the door would open, just a crack, he would peek in, look at who
was there and then pull back and shut the door without coming in.
"The next is the Semi Pro" he would stick his head in and say.
Then out and a short wait, the door would open and he would walk
in very cocky, saying, "Is Genii here yet...MY PICTURE IS ON THE
COVER!"
Then the 3rd (my favorite), Ken would say, "Now the amateur"
and would go out the door and wait about half a minute.
Suddenly the door would BURST OPEN -- Ken would fly in,
stumble fall to the floor and money would fly in all directions
out of his hands.... and he was shouting "WHAT'S NEW, I'LL TAKE
IT, I'LL TAKE IT!!!"
One day I asked Ken (after he taught me his routine for the
Multiplying Bottles) "How do you walk off with the table full of
bottles, Ken?"
He said, "Like this, you pick up the table start to walk off
stage and just before you get out of sight behind the curtain you
trip and start to fall forward, out of sight. And you have
someone back there with a bunch of cans they drop for the sound
effects, so the audience thinks you have dropped the table and
all the bottles."
I said, "Great, but how do you do the stumble without
dropping the stuff?" He said, "You practice, come I'll show you
how." And HONEST fellow MAGIC! friends, this is true. Ken grabbed
a large tray (there was always one around with the cups etc. on
it for tea, which we would have half a dozen times a day) and on
the tray was a tea pot and maybe six or seven cups and saucers,
the cream and suger bowls.
He picked it up and said, "Lets go" and out we went, he
closed the shop. "Now watch everything I do." He proceeded to
walk down the street in a busy shopping area and would do a fake
stumble and start to fall forward, right at a group of ladies
walking toward us. Time after time he did this and never dropped
a thing. He scared the WIZ out of dozens of shoppers, but he made
his point.
Summing up, Ken always said, "It's the bits of business, the
LINKS between the tricks that are important. It's not the magic,
but the LINKS!" He always stressed the links, and pointing the
effect. I remember one night learning the routine he devised for
Chase the Ace when he grabbed the cards out of my hand and
started hitting me with them. "You know the bloody routine, but
nobody can follow it, you can't move the cards and expect anyone
in the audience to see them.... YOU HAVE TO POINT THEM UP, HOLD
THEM STILL."
I will do more later. Like how he taught me the Malini Egg
Bag, the Nemo Rising cards, etc.
Can't leave this out. Ken always felt that it wasn't right
to sell something that was too difficult to do to a beginner. I
saw him many times refuse to show a youngster a trick that Ken
didn't think he would be able to do properly.
Then at other times I would see him start to do a trick (the
Nemo was one of them) and then throw it across the room, saying,
"No that wouldn't be good for you... too hard to do!" By the end
of the day Ken would have the guy BEGGING him to sell him
everything in the place. And he would!
Msg #4363 Dated 23:04:33 12-28-90 4338 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: LE CRIDGE
When Pete did in that Grinch he must have splattered it all over the
place! I mean blewed it up or something! Sheesh! Small parts of it
even landed here yesterday, Tabman. Fortunately, the cleaning service
was also scheduled for yesterday and was able to mop up the mess and
take it with them. Really - there were small chunks of it here
yesterday, but they are GONE. Good work, Pete! Vaporize any remains,
Tabman!
Sorry to hear about the possibili:y that Gloria may have to make the
trip. Our thoughts are with you and her. Please keep us informed.
Msg #4365 Dated 23:08:56 12-28-90 4355 <--> 4376
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: LICE BOWLS
Penn & Teller ARE real lice!
Msg #4367 Dated 23:13:03 12-28-90 4354 <--> 4371
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: RICE BOWLS
Sand instead of rice is a GREAT timely idea, Burt! Nice touch!
Msg #4368 Dated 23:14:08 12-28-90 4360 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: YOU ASKED!
Your Ken Brooke message was fantastic, Pete! I love the idea of saying
"Be right back" and going home. H. Allen Smith, in a book named "The
Complete Practical Joker," had a story about a man (he names him, but
I forget who) who was returning home after a trip to the hardware store
to buy 100 feet of wire. On the way he saw a tuxedoed man standing
near a corner and said, "Excuse me, but I'm measuring this corner and
don't know where my assistant has gone off to. Would you mind holding
this for a moment?" He gave the man one end of the wire and started to
unroll the rest as he walked around the corner. He was trying to
figure out what to do with the other end, when, around the corner he
saw ANOTHER tuxedoed gentleman. Giving him the same story, and the
other end of the wire, he went home.
Msg #4370 Dated 0:29:27 12-29-90
From: GENO MUNARI
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CRIDGE
I really apreciate your cooments on Cridge. But PLEASE, and I mean
PLEASE, don't LET OUT TOO MUCH MATERIAL. I tis too close to the vest.
But I do agree that Xmas was the place for him to show up. I love you
Pete.
Your friend.... Geno Munari
s
Msg #4371 Dated 5:17:38 12-29-90 4311 <--> 4378
From: RANDY LUND
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: RICE BOWLS
They bowls are Brahmin bowls from Morrisey's of Toronto and the effect
is to first double the quantity of rice and then from the same bowls
produce a bowl of water. The patter needs to take 30-45 seconds during
the water production since the drain from the double wall bowl takes
at least 30 sec.
Thanks for the suggestion - Randy
Msg #4372 Dated 5:25:18 12-29-90
From: RANDY LUND
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: MINDGAMES
Max, I just rented your video Mindgames and watched it several times.
Marilyn and I are always on the look out for magic videos, especially
good ones as we think we are well on our way with the technique of
doing the magic, but being entertaining in a performance is something
else again (ie much much harder). Anyway, just wanted to let you know
we both enjoyed it.
.
PS who does do your hair?
.
Randy & Marilyn
Msg #4373 Dated 5:28:36 12-29-90
From: RANDY LUND
To: ALL
Re: RICE BOWLS
Thanks for the suggestions...we likes the one about the desert sands
and Pete's suggestion about the price sticker gets around a problem.
In our practice sessions it seems the heat is really on your hands and
the bowls when you need to remove the tape. As for P&T, in our opinion
they werent funny on TV and Lice or any live animal for that matter is
not and probablly will not be part of our act.
.
The only time I have ever tried anything with an animal was when I
produced a kitten from a square circle for my littles boys birthday.
That was a disaster of the first order. The kitten DID NOT want to
stay in the silks or in the SC. Once I got him there and called the
kids in he was hell bent for leather to get out and was rattling the
tube which I tried to cover with fast talking. Producing the silks
didn't help either because he still wiggled like mad and I had silks
that really did seem to have a life of their own. Opening the silks
produced the cat and praise the kids were more interested in the kitty
thatn in dad's magic.
.
THanks again, Randy
Msg #4376 Dated 9:09:37 12-29-90 4365 <--> 4398
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: LICE BOWLS
No that's NICE.
Msg #4378 Dated 9:10:49 12-29-90 4367 <--> 4384
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RICE BOWLS
I think Oat Bran in the rice bowls would be good. You could do an
impression of that HEALTHY LOOKING LARD, BRIMLEY!!!
Msg #4381 Dated 10:23:59 12-29-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: MULLHOLLAND COLLECTION
Just had a lengthy conversation with Ricky Jay, curator of the
Mulholland Collection.
Ricky says that so much of what hs been said is not wholly
correct. And some of what we have reported is in error as well.
However, the real fact is that NO ONE (FROM THE U.S. FED.
GOVT) has made any decisions in ANY direction.
And that as suggested here, writing letters, lobbying, etc.
will not really be of any benefit. I got the feeling that the
LESS said the better. Too much talk would make the Feds think it
was worth MORE.... etc. etc.
He said just hang in and HOPE for the best -- it might have
a Happy Ending anyhow.
He has been very busy, writing and acting, just finished
working on a movie, doing shows, etc. etc.
Msg #4383 Dated 10:35:22 12-29-90 -> 4390
From: TABBY CRABB
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: SAND BRAN
Hi Randy.....
No wonder you're excited, those are some fine rice bowls.
I like the sand idea too, its a winner...not sure how I feel
about doing patter associated with troops or not (personal) but
desert sands sure opens up a lot of possibilities. Too bad such
an *#%## lives in Baghdad, or you could call it the sands of
baghdad and do some sorta oasis bit with it....me, I'm not
opposed to playing on the antiquity of effects...found that
spectators enjoy a bit of history if presented in an entertaining
way, plus its hard to take a bunch of tricks seriously....
everybody knows its a trick, so you must suspend reality by doing
the impossible or the unexpected....or make em giggle. Laughter
is the best medicine....to cop a title from Readers Digest....the
only magazine we subscribe to (gift from my mom) that we don't
read.....now I'm feeling guilty, I guess I'll have to pull em out
and start reading....Thanks Mom!...tabman...
Just read Pete's message about oatbran and I like it much...what if
milk instead of water, or did he say that its scrolled off so I don't
see it anymore. Used to be this stuff called OOM (Oil Of Milk) that
Montandon-Waite usta put out.....see ya...
Msg #4384 Dated 10:41:28 12-29-90 4378 <--> 4391
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RICE BOWLS
This effect is begining to make me hungry. Randy, can you do anything
with duplicating a nice Prime Rib?
Msg #4390 Dated 13:30:11 12-29-90 4383 <--> 4507
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SAND BRAN
Milk is more visible than water and YES use OOM (Oil of Mile) it is
just a "soluble" oil and I think magicshops still sell it.
You could do the whole thing as a put on Commercial. Oat Bran, Goat
Bran, who know... keep thinkin'
Msg #4391 Dated 13:31:25 12-29-90 4384 <--> 4395
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RICE BOWLS
I used to use two flower pots as rice bowls.No gaff at all,just tuffed
stuffed a rubber chicken in one bowl. Put breakfast cereal in one tuned
over it doubled,etc. and then pulledthe chicken out sayink "A chicken
in Every Pot" (hey that was 40 years ago I did that it was hip then!)
Msg #4395 Dated 13:53:48 12-29-90 4391 <--> 4407
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RICE BOWLS
"A chicken in every pot," eh? Dam (Coolie) clever of you! Did you
also use a Hoover vacuum cleaner in the act? Let's see... We've gone
from "A chicken in every pot" to "Read my lips." Is that considered
progress? But here's a serious question -- We've had Presidents with
a lot of different hobbies and interests (I believe at least one was a
transvestite, but I can't remember which one) and who've come from a
lot of different backgrounds (surveyor, etc.) -- to the best of
anyone's knowledge, have we ever had a magician President?
Msg #4398 Dated 15:09:03 12-29-90 4376 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LICE BOWLS
Well...
ONLY if their slander-suit attorney is reading this!
(heh, heh)
Msg #4399 Dated 16:46:53 12-29-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: GREEN BOOK
Book came in today....thanx...see you soon...tabman...hello to Walter
for me next time see at magic club..
Msg #4400 Dated 17:04:30 12-29-90 -> 4418
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: POLITICS AND MAGIC
A historical note: Teddy Roosevelt had dkerchief pull I understand and
on occasion would vanish a hankey.
Msg #4401 Dated 17:07:18 12-29-90 -> 4419
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: MAVEN FOR PRESIDENT
MAX for president!
Msg #4404 Dated 20:28:46 12-29-90 -> 4408
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: P&L MFG CO.
Anybody know who owns P&L Mfg. Co. these daze???
Msg #4405 Dated 20:29:36 12-29-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: NEW ERA CARD TRIX
Looking for a reading copy of Roterberg's NEW ERA CARD TRICKS...
if anybody has such a thing and wants to trade - sell then I'm your
tabman...
Msg #4406 Dated 20:33:01 12-29-90 -> 4409
From: RICK RUHL
To: ALL
Re: DON WAYNES DANCING HANK
i FINALLY broke down and bought this effect and love it. Any tips on
starting or finishing the effect WITHOUT a jacket?
Also, I PLEAD again for videos of magician's that have been on TV. It
for my personal use. I'd especially like the Copperfiled special (I
think it was 3) where he did the dancing hank.
Thanks
Rick
Msg #4407 Dated 21:13:33 12-29-90 4395 <--> 4412
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RICE BOWLS
Tricky Dick is the closest I can recall
Msg #4408 Dated 21:14:46 12-29-90 4404 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: P&L MFG CO.
Penn and teLLer? Er, call 312-EDI-BULL and ask for Jay Marshall,he can
tellya
Msg #4409 Dated 21:15:52 12-29-90 4406 <--> 4460
From: PETE BIRO
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: DON WAYNES DANCING HANK
I don't know enuf about it, but just start working with it and don't
wear a jacket. Maybe take it our of some kind of container, a hat box,
a laundry bag.. ANYTHING just to get going.
Msg #4412 Dated 22:31:17 12-29-90 4407 <--> 4414
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RICE BOWLS
As it happens, George Bush is an amateur magician; he's a customer of
Al Cohen's.
Msg #4413 Dated 22:34:53 12-29-90 -> 4415
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CRIDGE
Pete: thanks for the information on Ken Brooke's cridge. It is not, as
I had hypothesized, related to the Snap Crimp (except in the generic
sense), and obviously has applications far beyond the obvious. By all
means, I'll keep this tight. Thanks again.
Msg #4414 Dated 23:02:11 12-29-90 4412 <--> 4420
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: RICE BOWLS
Bill Wells told me that Bush likes to eat in the same Chinese
Restaurant he does, and when GB is there it screws up the evening.
Msg #4415 Dated 23:03:03 12-29-90 4413 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: CRIDGE
Thanks Max, I know only the few, the creative will understand its true
applications. I am filing two killer effects, based on the Kato Card
Happening next. Hope you like 'em.
Msg #4416 Dated 23:04:05 12-29-90 -> 4425
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: CARD HAPPENING PLUS
Kato's Card Happening (published years ago in Genii Magazine) is
one of my favorite "visual" card tricks ever. The effect is
simple. You show your left hand empty, say it really has a card
inside its palm. But unless you UNZIP it, the card cannot be
seen.
Sounds weird, but you demonstrate. You slap your hand down,
and when you lift it there is nothing. But, after "miming" the
opening of an imaginary Zipper in your palm, when you slap the
hand on the table and lift it -- from nowhere -- THERE IS A CARD!
How? You have the deck on the table, near the edge, and
allow the top card to be offset to the right about 1/2-inch. And
at the very moment you slap the left hand onto the table, the
right hand has come to a rest position behind the deck so that
you can FLICK the top card off the deck and trap it with your
left hand. Hard to describe, but if you think out what is written
here, you should be able to figure it out. The card is flicked
with the forefinger, off your thumb.
I have had a lot of fun with this and devised two very
strong tricks using Kato's amazing move.
One I worked out was performed a few times at conventions
with the late Fred Kaps. Kaps was great at handling the
misdirection and his acting ability added greatly to it.
It is, as you guessed, a two person trick.
Picture the set up. You need to have about four people
sitting around a table, similar to a card game. If you are at
6:00 O'clock you would have your accomplice at, say 11:00, a non
participant at 12:00 and the person that selects the card at 2:00
O'clock. This is only approximate, but gives you an idea of the
positions needed to make it work best.
Ask the person at 2:00 to take the deck, shuffle it and to
keep between 6 and 8 cards. Then from this group, keep one card,
and give the remaining cards to the person at 11:00 O'clock. (In
my handling this was Fred Kaps).
Have them return the card to the balance of the deck, which
you have. Now here you must really use a KILLER card control. I
use the Koornwinder Resin control. You could use a crimp, salt,
anything that is foolproof and surefire, so there is no suspicion
or fancy moves, to get the card to the top of the deck.
Now you have to get them to lose interest in you and the
deck. So, you call attention to the person with the group of
cards (at 11:00) and say, "The idea of this trick is to make the
card you selected RE-APPEAR with the original group you gave to
Fred there. So I can do this, we need to know the name of the
card, so Fred can tell us if it is there now or not."
Spectator names the card. You set the deck down with the top
(selected) card jogged over to the right the slightest amount you
can get away with.
Fred looks over the cards in his hand and says, "No, your
card is not here."
Then you say to Fred, are you sure, he says, he is certain
and shows the cards, fanned to the other spectator.
You now do the MOJO... whatever fits your style, say Magic
Works, wave a wand, rattle some bones... whatever. Then you
declare, "Fred you now have the card."
Here is where Kaps was brilliant -- it is all acting and
timing here.
He would say, "No, its not possible" look at the cards he
has, held like a poker hand, then he would look surprised, and
say, "What!!! NO, Impossible, LOOK!" When he says LOOK, everyone
looks at him and he immediately slams the group of cards down
onto the table (with his fingers extended and the tips UP off the
table top) and AT THE SAME MOMENT -- I WOULD FLICK THE CARD
ACROSS THE TABLE INTO THE CARDS UNDER HIS HAND.
He would push the cards across the table to the spectator
that chose the card (with the card now added to the others) and
there it would be! A real miracle.
The success of this trick was Kaps' ability to attract all
the attention, while I did the dirty work, and to really be
convincing in his statements.
Give it a try with a friend, even if you don't do the full
bit, just try the flick across.
I'll BET Geno Munari gets this into a Poker Game scam!
The other effect I use with the Kato Move is a Card In
Balloon at the table that fooled Johnny Thompson so bad he nearly
broke his jaw when it dropped to the table.
Will file it in a few days. In the meantime, practice the
Kato Card Happening. You will have something that few others
even know about and literally no one does it.
Maybe a research type person online here, like our friends
Maven or Waters can tell us which issue of Genii it appeared in
so others might look it up.
The Cridge Card would be a very good control to use here. I
forgot to mention it above.
Msg #4417 Dated 23:06:00 12-29-90 -> 4423
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: CARD IN BALLOON ULTRA
Follow Up to Kato Card Happening.... The Biro Table Card In
Balloon....
Needed: One round balloon, a small hatpin stuck on your left
lapel area (under lapel or inside coat). The pin needs to be on
your upper left body area, easily gotten and in that locale to
afford proper body position and visual mis-direction.
Plus the ability to do the Flick as described in the Kato
Card Happening (posted earlier).
While doing some card work, bring out a balloon (regular
round type) and have someone blow it up and make certain there is
nothing hiding inside the balloon, like Bees, Rice, Lice or Oat
Bran!
Have someone across the table from you and just a bit to
your left (at 11:00 O'clock) select and if you wish, sign the
card. Have it returned to the deck and control same to the top.
You can do some fancy shuffles and flourishes here (but don't
over do it) just to get the mood set up right.
Place the deck down in a good position for you to do the
Kato Flick toward the person that chose the card.
You lose interested in the deck and have a couple of people
look into the balloon to see what might be hiding inside.
Now the placement, etc. is important.
Have the person that chose the card fold one arm, parallel
to their body and rest it on the table. Don't make a big thing of
this just say, "rest one arm on the table, and here, hold the
balloon like this."
You place the balloon on the table against their arm, then
put their free hand, palm down, on top of the balloon pushing
slightly downward on the balloon.
Say something like, "I want you to have a good grip on the
balloon so I can't get it away from you, OK?"
Important body positioning and misdirection follows.
Your left hand comes up to get the pin, at the same time you
look at your left shoulder, to where the left hand is trying to
find something (the pin). Left hand finds pin, say, "Ah, here it
is... the magic hat pin. WATCH!"
As you say watch raise left hand a bit, lean forward (at the
same time, your leaning forward places your right hand a the
precise spot to FLICK the top card forward.
Left hand comes down, POPS the balloon -- AND AT SAME TIME
YOU FLICK THE CARD INTO THE BURSTING BALLOON.
The spectator positioning becomes obvious now. The arm on
the table is to prevent the flicked card from going off the table
onto his/her lap and killing the finish, and the right hand
pushing down on the balloon somewhat drops and traps the card
when the balloon bursts.
Believe me, this one effect alone is worth a year online.
All rights reserved, Void where prohibited.
Permission to use on the Ed Sullivan show is granted, but
not on the Tonight Show on any night Jay Leno is hosting.
If you know Jay Marshall or Johnny Thompson, ask them
about John's reaction the night I did this for the two of them
on the Marshall family kitchen table.
I had time and couldn't wait to post this New Year gift to all online.
Msg #4418 Dated 0:27:56 12-30-90 4400 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: POLITICS AND MAGIC
Thanks, Tabby. Teddy Roosevelt seems the type to have done that.
Msg #4419 Dated 0:28:42 12-30-90 4401 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAVEN FOR PRESIDENT
OK, I agree - MAX for President! But of what? I mean, probably would
be OK for Prez of the U.S., but could make more money as Prez of
General Motors.
Gee, I just realized -- he could get a LOT more done in a day! They
bring the Ambassador of Pwazitstan in for a meeting to negotiate some
tricky deal and Max would just have to look at him and say, "Yes, and
I know what you're thinking, but we can resolve that with a special
clause in the contract. Thank you for dropping by."
Msg #4420 Dated 0:32:54 12-30-90 4407 <--> 4421
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RICE BOWLS
Is there any truth to the rumor that they are booking him for the
Parlour at the Magic Castle?
Msg #4421 Dated 0:34:03 12-30-90 4412 <--> 4435
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: RICE BOWLS
Er... How do we get George Bush on MAGIC!? I have a couple of the
White House numbers here, but not sure I can get past the third or
fourth secretary any more. Anyone want to take a shot at it?
Msg #4423 Dated 0:38:43 12-30-90 4417 <--> 4426
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD IN BALLOON ULTRA
Both of those effects based on Kato's Card Happening are terrific! I
particularly like the balloon one. And you are right, I can see where
the Cridge fits in perfectly!
Msg #4425 Dated 7:23:58 12-30-90 4416 <--> 4438
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD HAPPENING PLUS
Thanks for the great effect to work on. I can see where the
misdirection will have to be flawless. Will we ever learn the workings
of the Cridge Card now that our interests have been stirred up?
Msg #4426 Dated 7:30:36 12-30-90 4417 <-
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD IN BALLOON ULTRA
WOW! Thanks for ANOTHER terrific effect!
Msg #4427 Dated 7:31:43 12-30-90 -> 4449
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: BICYCLE DECKS
A belated thank you to whoever gave us the tip about buying bicycle
decks now on sale at Thrifty drug stores for $1.00 per pack. I picked
up 15 decks yesterday when I had an idea. I recently paid something
like $7.00 or so for a forcing deck to perform one of Dr. Lichtman's
effects he posted online. If there are enough people who are
interested, I will purchase say, 50 more decks and make up forcing
decks for all. Just for the sake of round numbers and to cover postage
do you all think it would be a good deal to pay $2.00 per deck for red
Bicycle, poker size forcing decks? I need to have interest in at least
20 decks to make this worthwhile so let me know soon. I believe the
sale is over in a week or so.
Msg #4428 Dated 7:39:54 12-30-90
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC CASTLE NEW YEARS
Is anyone here going to the Magic Castle for New Years? I'd like to
say hello to anyone that will be there from Magic!
Msg #4429 Dated 7:42:14 12-30-90 -> 4479
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: AMMAR SEMINAR
Is anyone going to the Michael Ammar seminar at the Magic Arts Guild?
I believe it is being held in Cucamonga (sp?) near the Ontario airport.
I am confirmed to be there if I can find out where "there" is! Hope to
see another Magic! member there. Leave me a message if you plan on
being at the seminar this January 26th.
Msg #4430 Dated 7:50:44 12-30-90 -> 4439
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: KAPS MONOGRAPH
It'll be in the mail tomorrow.....I've found another for myself..
Keep it and send me a coupla your lecture notes when you get settled.
Msg #4431 Dated 7:57:47 12-30-90
From: TABBY CRABB
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: DR. LICHTMANS FORCE
Dr. Lichtman's Forcing Deck.....you bet...I'll take two...
Msg #4432 Dated 7:58:23 12-30-90 -> 4440
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: BUSH LEAGUE MAGIC
Try sending him a letter and a green flyer...it works for me...
Msg #4433 Dated 8:50:36 12-30-90 -> 4452
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: COMEDY STORE
The Comedy Store does not take reservations. My show begins at 8:00,
and I doubt you'll have trouble getting in if you arrive at 7:30. Note
that I'm performing in the Belly Headliner Room, which is upstairs. The
cover charge is six dollars, plus drinks. For information call
(213)-656-6225. Hope to see you there.
Msg #4434 Dated 8:55:26 12-30-90 -> 4441
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: MAX FOR PRESIDENT
No More "Read My Lips".....It'll be "Read My Mind"....
Msg #4435 Dated 9:09:33 12-30-90 4420 <--> 4436
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RICE BOWLS
Booking who? I forget start of messages. Oh, Tricky Dick? Nah, Quail
would be better 'cause HE IS THE REAL MYSTERY!
Msg #4436 Dated 9:10:22 12-30-90 4421 <--> 4454
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RICE BOWLS
I tell you, its Quail, he's got all kinds of free time and according to
Leno he has finished his coloring book.
Msg #4438 Dated 9:12:05 12-30-90 4425 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CARD HAPPENING PLUS
There is nothing to LEARN. It may be the only move in magic that you
should do for a spectator without bothering to practice. Which, with
most magicians, is standard practice.
Msg #4439 Dated 9:13:34 12-30-90 4430 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: KAPS MONOGRAPH
You're a better man than I am Gunga Crabb
Msg #4440 Dated 9:14:09 12-30-90 4432 <--> 4451
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: BUSH LEAGUE MAGIC
I think it was Dr. Tarbell's Forcing Deck (just wanted to beat Maven
and/or Waters to the draw here.
Msg #4441 Dated 9:15:02 12-30-90 4434 <--> 4453
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAX FOR PRESIDENT
Or Read My Brain
Msg #4442 Dated 9:15:14 12-30-90 -> 4455
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: RISING CARDS UH HUH
I don't know what got me going here to start whacking out effects
from the old files/lecture notes, etc. but here is one that is so
easy to do and so good you will say. Huh?
This was marketed some time ago by the late Lloyd Jones as
the "Severn/Biro rising cards" -- inspiration for the principle
came from my good friend and prolific writer, Bill Severn.
Requirements: A svengali deck, a regular-size letter
envelope (not the big business No. 10) and a wooden pencil
prepared in the following manner. After it has been sharpened you
need to coat the lead end with either airplane glue, varnish,
anything that will make it so it does not mark. Then at the
center of the pencil itself you wrap a small rubber band tightly
around it.
You are set.
First you need to have a card chosen. Now don't do the usual
rifflling select like everyone does with a Svengali deck. I found
the relaxed "dribble" of cards onto the table and asking the
spectator to say STOP is the best and most convincing handling.
Once the card is selected, looked at, have them place it
back from where it came. Tell 'em, I want the card right where it
was, so I can memorize its position in the deck.
"But, to make it harder to find and to eliminate the
possibility of doing any thing tricky or resorting to sleight of
hand, I will seal the deck in this envelope." Bring out the
envelope and do so. Seal it well, but make sure there is slack,
ie: don't pull the flap around so tight to bind the cards. You
will, after you try this a few dozen times (YES try it before you
put it into a show!) understand what I mean and discover just how
much slack you need for the action required next.
Now, the baloney: You say, "Ok, I do need some help, with
my magic wand (bring out pencil) that looks something like a
plain old -- if you'll pardon the expression -- No. 2 Pencil.
Needless to say, keep the gimmick, the rubber band,
concealed. Poke the pencil into the envelope (like you are doing
a card stab with a knife) so the pencil goes into the deck in a
position just above center (again experience will tell you the
best balance point).
Note: What you have now is the pencil in the deck, being a
Svengali THE selected card is either in front or to the rear of
the pencil. The rubber band will act like a wheel/gear and if you
turn the pencil it will cause one card to rise, depending on the
direction you turn the pencil.
But I am ahead of the trick here.
Now you need to see inside the envelope. So, you are holding
the packet by the pencil at the finertips of one hand, out in
front of you. Move it up and down a little, saying, "I can tell
where the card is by weight! But it's not right, I need to remove
a little paper."
Tear off the upper end of the envelope so what remains is
just about 1/4 inch more than the height of the deck.
This is when you peek into the top and glimpse to see where
the force card is.
Now hold the pencil about eye level and SHAKE THE PACKAGE UP
AND DOWN VERY, VERY SLIGHTLY, and at the same time with your
fingers rotate the pencil to RAISE the WRONG CARD! This is the
beautiful part of the effect. When the card is up about 1 1/2-
inches say, "and here's your card!" they will say NO... "What,
its not the xx -- WAIT -- now reverse the rotation of the pencil
and the wrong card will slowly go back down and the correct AND
WINNING CARD will rise!!!
Viola, as they say in my country... another veritable
miracle among a cornucopia of wonderful effects.
Almost all rights reserved. Void where prohibited. Batteries
not included. Death before dishonor.
For an additional $50 we will show you how to take the
pencil out without anyone seeing the rubber band.
And for $100 we will suggest you have another deck (non
gaffed) in your pocket in an envelope that looks just like the
one you have used, so you can casually switch and leave laying
about and/or use for the next trick. And for the money back
guarantee we would tell you the smart guy would have that deck
stacked for the Vernon Poker deal, or any of 600 Max Maven
effects.
Actually, for no extra charge, if you wish, you can switch decks
at the beggining as you are bringing out the envelope, doing so when
looking through your pockets to find the envelope. Just put both hands
into your pockets at the same time, swap the decks, bringing the
envelope out first, tossing it on the table. You should have some kind
of funny return address on the envelope to read for a laff, such as
from the Prez, or Madonna, Andrew Dice Clay, anybody controversial.
Go for it, and send risiduals to P. Biro.
Msg #4445 Dated 9:34:13 12-30-90 2773 <--> 4586
From: DAVID SACKS
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: GREETINGS
Darrell,
Thanks for the invite. I hope to make the meetings at some point.
Have had plans in the past to join Arnold Furst and come to the
meeting, but for some reason or another things just didn't work out.
I did attend the day-of-magic. That was great. Can't wait for the
next one. Hope to meet you at thw Wattles mansion soon.
David.
Msg #4449 Dated 12:14:07 12-30-90 4427 <--> 4463
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: BICYCLE DECKS
Count me in for two decks. Would prefer non-face cards if it isn't too
difficult to keep track of the request. Let us know when/how to send
you the money for this project.
Msg #4451 Dated 12:17:30 12-30-90 4440 <--> 4465
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BUSH LEAGUE MAGIC
Thanks, I'm glad you cleared that up. I didn't invent the one way
force deck, just the DAVID'S IMPOSSIBLE SELECT effect that uses it.
You know, with Stan volunteering to make up sets of one-way decks I was
thinking - is there any effect that would work particularly well with
a force deck of Jokers? He's gonna have two sets of those left over.
Msg #4452 Dated 12:20:22 12-30-90 4433 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: COMEDY STORE
Thanks for the info. Look forward to seeing your show. Don't have a
date in mind yet, but it will probably be a Thursday night.
Msg #4453 Dated 12:21:20 12-30-90 4441 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAX FOR PRESIDENT
I can just see it now - Televised speach to Sadam Housein... "Don't try
it, Sadam. Don't even think about it."
Msg #4454 Dated 12:22:38 12-30-90 4436 <--> 4522
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RICE BOWLS
Maybe the two of them together? How about "CBS Presents Bush & Bird in
Don't Try This In The White House!"
Msg #4455 Dated 12:23:49 12-30-90 4442 <--> 4466
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RISING CARDS UH HUH
Biro! That is another KILLER effect! GREAT CONCEPT! I haven't tried
it, but there are pens/pencils available that have a RUBBER GRIP.
Standard office supply stuff. Might be able to eliminate the gaff.
Ooops, there goes your $50 for the "how to remove the gaff" part.
Msg #4459 Dated 12:39:03 12-30-90 -> 4468
From: TABBY CRABB
To: XRQ3
Re: MAGICAL MUTTERINGS
Bright upon a noontime cheery,
Dr. Lichtman made a query,
Assuming one can guess the way,
To affix a card to planes at bay.
Biro chided must'nt worry,
Here's the answer ina hurry.
Pages flowed from his quick typer,
Figure Biro's getting hyper.
tabman pondered at his cutter,
Make three panels; Biro muttered.
Then with ample time to matter
Maven stopped this idle chatter.
TA Waters for us all,
Typed to solve the Golly's Ball.
Devant's delusion came from Keller,
It rolled uphill; a simpler feller.
Threads, not magnets, in a new nation,
Hang the method, it's presentation.
From the keys of Richard Hart,
Came a brain wave; howto start.
Biro pondered, then retorted,
Powers thought and then reported,
Sisti's answer was the squeeler,
Just buy it from your magic dealer.
Burt the Builder saved my session
Pulled me from a great depression,
First the message came in batches,
Then a box with Castle matches.
Busby's quiet, but keeps the flow,
He's busy making lots of dough.
Taking scads of awful chances,
Writing books and checking answers.
Charlie Randall's detective elves
Find us books to fill our shelves.
Darrell Murphy took the hastle,
To plan a luncheon at the Castle,
The Database arrived in time,
Cause Atlanta Rick got on line.
Stan Lake hangs in with thoughts aplenty
Jon Lucke called us from Wine Country.
Deep in the desert on his safari,
Came some prose from G Munari.
My favorite one's his early limrick.
Conversations with Swami Gimmik.
Randy with his bowls of rice,
Penn and Teller with their lice,
Marvin Stern, I'm growing fond,
Arnaud's calling across the pond
Dante Larsen's getting stronger,
Hail the Genii, may he live longer.
And not forgetting my great ride,
In Howie Schwarzman's flying pride.
There've been some others who from time to time
Have signed on to MAGIC!'s message line,
But to the ones who've been true,
My hat's a tam and it's off to you.
To great magicians both now and past,
The Ken Brooke stories, and Kaps at last,
Pete's the man who keeps us guessing,
And David Lichtman has our blessing,
Without the great computer link,
We'd be alone and life would stink.
To those whose part I didn't mention,
I'm growing tired of this contention.
Your presence, too, has made the difference.
HAPPY NEW YEAR.......tabman
Msg #4460 Dated 13:26:44 12-30-90 4409 <-
From: RICK RUHL
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DON WAYNES DANCING HANK
Hehe, the laundry bag has possiblites (grin).
Msg #4461 Dated 13:31:05 12-30-90
From: RICK RUHL
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: POEM
That was GREAT!!! Fit perfectly and made me smile.
Ricker
Msg #4462 Dated 13:31:56 12-30-90 -> 4495
From: RICK RUHL
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: AND OTHERS
David:
Just looking back over the past two months that I've been on here.
I've noticed something.
The people on this bbs act like a bbs here in Atlanta I used to be on
called madhouse. It wasn't like any other bbs. The people joined
together in a family type atmosphere. This board, I beleive, has
reached a pinnacle near that. EVERYONE on here is friendly and helpful
and acts as a family unit. We had a slogan on Madhouse, it was
Madhouse, not just a bbs, a commitment.
For this bbs it could be:
Magic, not just a bbs, a magical experience. (or something to that
effect).
Anyway, happy new year to you and all the members of MAGIC!. Keep this
place up, it is needed and wanted!!!
Your friend
Ricker
Msg #4463 Dated 16:27:21 12-30-90 4449 <--> 4478
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: BICYCLE DECKS
The real tip on one way force decks is to only do half a deck. That way
you can spread them face up and who indifferent cards. You 'd be
indifferent to if you never got chosen.
Msg #4465 Dated 16:28:41 12-30-90 4451 <--> 4498
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: BUSH LEAGUE MAGIC
There is a great Ken Brooke item called "It's a Joker" but I forget the
make up. The effect is one card is selected and the deck changes to all
Jokers. Except the aud. sees indifferent cards at the beginning. I
htink half the deck is double facers, Jokers one side. But can't find
it in my stored stuff.
Msg #4466 Dated 16:30:30 12-30-90 4455 <--> 4476
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RISING CARDS UH HUH
No. You got to hide it, if the rubberizedness (new word) shows it tips
your mitt. There is a cheat way using a round pencil with rubber cement
that rubs off and you are clean. But not worth the trouble.
Msg #4468 Dated 16:34:38 12-30-90 4459 <--> 4494
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGICAL MUTTERINGS
I like the words, now we need the melody. (I know bass solo)!
Msg #4469 Dated 16:35:55 12-30-90 -> 4485
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: CRIDGE REVEALED!
Only because of death threats and as the year winds down AND THE
RAIDERS JUST WON THE AFC WEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Here is the REEL WORK! On! The gaffus of the Century.... The, one,
the ONLY>>>> $$$$$$ --- the CRIDGE CARD---->
The Cridge -- a secret card artifice devised for his personal
friends use only -- by Ken Brooke.
First I should preface this with Ken's set-up. He would have
a group of knowledgable guys in the studio. Card talk would
ensue. Now, Ken was not one of the clever finger-flinging type
card guys, but like another magic dealer, Al Flosso, had certain
knowledge handed down to him that could fool the so called "hot
guys" of the time.
Flosso would NAIL the best with card tricks using a bottom
deal, that he did indetectably, and he had some uncanny abilities
at forcing and estimation that you would not believe.
Ken, on the other hand, would get you off guard with his
presentations, not his skill. Many times he would fool so called
experts with his 6 card repeat. His method was a well concieved
usage of sleeving.
After he had them going he would talk of card controls. And
the "Cridge" would come up -- and as he knew, no one would know
what it was. So he would say, I'll dem it for you. He would go
into the backroom, wait awhile then come out and show them the
"Cridge" card.
What they saw. A card, held face down, in his left hand.
Without any obvious movement, suddenly the outer corner of the
card would MOVE down and up, sort of "self crimping" itself.
Of courseit was a typical Ken Brooke PUT ON and they loved
it. Ken showed me how to make the card and I have used it
similarly for some time.
Here's the work. From a scrap card cut a 1/4-inch wide strip
about 2 1/2-inches in length. Set aside.
Take any card and at the right outer corner (the opposite of
the bent corner for the 3 card monte) and bend it carefully back
and forth, just like the 3 card bent corner, softening the card
stock, but not breaking the surface, so when viewed it looks
"fair".
When finished, turn card face up, and with contact cement,
attach the 1/4-inch strip to the bent corner, with the strip
running diagonally from one corner to the other.
After it is firmly attached, if you hold the card in your
left hand, you can slide the strip with your fingers under the
card and it will cause the bent corner to animate and move up and
down, as you slide the strip back and forward just a little.
It is a funny visual. You could actually have this in a deck
and use it briefly as a locater then offer to "TIP" your new
locater card.
Its OK for you to use it this way, but please respect the
secret. Hope you like it, I love it!
OK HERE IS THE DEAL. DO NOT GIVE IT OUT. KEEP IT EXCLULSIVE TO THOSE
OF US HERE ON MAGIC! OK? IF NOT, WE WILL SCRAMBLE YOUR PASSWORD.
Msg #4471 Dated 16:40:45 12-30-90 -> 4472
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: YOU
Your stuff is too good. If I ever do the so called book, you got to let
me run some of your stuff! Without or without the sheet music.
Msg #4472 Dated 16:46:57 12-30-90 4471 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: YOU
You got it !
Msg #4473 Dated 16:59:19 12-30-90 -> 4501
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: ALL
Re: HEY THERE Y'ALL
Greetings one and all.
The life of the Wine Country Wizard has been hectic as of
late and filled with a combination of joy and tragedy. The
loss of my closest high school buddy to a bad weather car
accident forced me to leave the wine country briefly to
bury the body and comfort friends and family. It also has
renewed my gusto for living and made me realize ITS TIME TO
STOP WASTING TIME. There is precious little of it to spare.
I have also decided to start making plans for my 100th
birthday party and you are all invited. It will be held on
November 15th, 2062. The location is undecided but I am in
no rush as the event will not take place for another 70
years or so.
At any rate I made two round trips to Eureka and one trip
to Oroville for Christmas and funerals etc.. I was so
exhausted after all that traveling I decided to take
another trip, this time to Reno/Tahoe where I was fortunate
to see David Copperfield at Caesars Tahoe. I will post a
review of sorts in subsequent messages.
When in Reno check out The Magic Shop ( Catchy name eh? )
owned by Terry and Raili Wilson. Its a small shop and very
new but they have taken the time to stock some excellent
effects for pro magicians. I spent several pleasant hours
there discussing ideas and watching demonstrations.
Other magi besides Copperfield included recent
performances by Fielding West, Mark Kornhauser, Larry
Wilson , Valentino (?) and others ( If you haven't seen
others' act in a while you really should).
Unfortunatly I missed my all time favorite lounge act,
the Dae Hahn sisters, an all female Korean rock band. These
ladies have it all. Looks, talent, stage presence and
southeast asian heritage. Be still my beating heart.
Soon to follow, a review of Copperfields stuff and a
magic contribution from the Wine Country Wizard.
Ciao.
Msg #4474 Dated 17:00:33 12-30-90 -> 4477
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: ALL
Re: COPPERFIELD
David Copperfield at Caesers Tahoe
December 27th 1990
Ticket Price - $27.50
Approximate Running Time 1 hr. 40 mins.
The show opened with Copperfield appearing with and on his
Harley in a large shadow box as seen on T.V.
Next a new piece in which he put a girl in a box and sliced
off her head. The head box slid around on an adjacent table.
It was a neat piece and got a pretty good reaction.
Next was the Dancing Tie as seen on T.V.
Then he read a girls mind to find out her phone number. Also
seen on T.V.
The Origami Box illusion. One of the highlights of the show.
Rising card on tablet as seen previously.
Franz Harary's dividing a girl into nine pieces.
He did a neat comedy cut and restored rope with an assistant
from the audience. I haven't seen him do this on T.V. yet
but he may have. At any rate it was very funny.
Then he did the Camera Trick without the Penn and Teller
comedy ending.
Then we got to see a film of him escaping from the exploding
building. Seemed like a good time to head for the LBR (Little
Boys Room ) so I did. He got out alive. Nobody seemed
surprised since he was performing that night. The bathroom
was tidy and well kept up.
A new illusion called the Big Black Box that was a version
of Things That go Bump in the night. It had a surprising
climax that I wont describe as it will likely be on his next
special. I did think that his double's disguise wasn't very
convincing and that view was shared by several lay persons
in the audience. I felt the response was wYX--?than it
could have been because of that.
He did close-up magic on the big screen and it was neat. He
had girl sign a card and return it to the deck. The deck
instantly jumped into a deflated balloon. He then inflated
the balloon and visibly pulled the signed card out through
the wall of the balloon. The strength of this effect was
such that people in the back row were gasping out loud. ( If
anyone knows who markets this effect, please let me know).
Then he went into the audience and did a neat floating ball
of tissue. Very well done. At the climax he folded it into a
flower and lit it on fire. It visibly turned into a real
rose.
The next piece was the finest magic I have ever witnessed.
It was a levitation based on two previously used concepts. I
saw the first used by Richard Tutacko in the Night Magic
show. Tutacko floated a lady on a fountain of water. The
other I saw the Pendragons do where the woman floats up and
around the magician.
The setting was an Amazon rain forest complete with full
moon and a waterfall on stage. A scantily clad woman was
writhing on a high platform. Copperfield approached her and
after much fine theatrics the waterfall vanished and a
fountain appeared. The girl floated on the waterfall and
around Copperfield. It's hard to describe the effect because
the real beauty was the combination of lighting, music ,
stage setting, movement and a fair dose of eroticism. It was
breathtaking and I have to believe it will be in his next
special. It was, in my opinion, the highlight of the show.
This was followed by the Twister illusion.
Then he yanked the head off of a duck and a chicken and
switched them. So much for animal rights.
He closed the show with the vanishing Harley that appears
mid-audience. It was mucho effective live because of the
police sirens and lights that were placed around the
theatre.
It was the third time I had seen Copperfield live and
definitely the most satisfying. He didn't get a standing
ovation but that was more a result of casino audiences than
anything else I suspect.
I would love to see a discussion on what it is about
Copperfield that makes his shows so successful. I have a
number of thoughts. Maybe by tossing them about we can
improve our own shows without copying his style.
Msg #4475 Dated 17:02:11 12-30-90
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: ALL
Re: WINE TRICK
During last weeks travel I stopped into a touristy wine
shop and renewed a thought that I have had in the past.
Popular in these shops are miniature bottles of wine and
champagne. They stand about six inches high and hold
about two glasses of wine.
If one were to take this miniature bottle and a Norm
Nielsen Vanishing Bottle ( Duplicate of the miniature),
you could come up with a neat diminishing bottle routine.
Put the small bottle in the rubber bottle, place all in
paper bag, crush the bag and vanishing bottle around the
small bottle and remove it from a tear in the bottom of
the bag. You are left with a real small bottle of wine to
give to an audience member and increase you likeability.
Possible patter themes are as follows:
A demonstration of "Crushing Wine"
A challenge that someone " Drink the entire bottle and
drive home"
A speech on inflation and the value of money.
Instead of a small wine bottle use a soft drink for an
anti alchohol them for the kids.
Disclaimer: Hey folks duplication of thought happens. I
haven't seen this done nor have I seen it in print. I
thought it up myself and if you dont believe me just ask
me. Of course I don't want to step on any toes so I would
like to give full credit to every magician that I have
ever seen or even heard of. If thats not good enough then
sue me. Gosh its not that great of an idea anyways, so
what are you getting uptight about? Can we still be
friends?
Msg #4476 Dated 17:44:19 12-30-90 4442 <--> 4481
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RISING CARDS UH HUH
Wasn't it Rick Johnsson who came up with the nice version of this using
a "crank handle"?
Msg #4477 Dated 17:49:53 12-30-90 4474 <--> 4484
From: MAX MAVEN
To: STEVE KUCERA (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
In answer to your question, the deck in balloon trick in Copperfield's
show is a modification of a Jay Sankey origination which can be found
in the "Sankey Pankey" book. However, given that DC is using this in
his current touring show, and will be doing it on his next network
special, why would anyone want to add this to their repertoire? It
seems to me that the fact of David using this now would warrant
deliberately avoiding the trick. Otherwise, the public perception that
magicians are interchangeable is validated...
Msg #4478 Dated 21:07:19 12-30-90 4427 <--> 4490
From: KEN HENSLEY
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: BICYCLE DECKS
Just for the info, was contacted by a gentlman at the U.S. Playing Card
Co. and it seems that they are no longer producing racer or fan backs..
if you see any, better snap them up, if they are types you like, 'cause
no telling how much longer they will be available..
Msg #4479 Dated 21:10:33 12-30-90 4429 <--> 4602
From: KEN HENSLEY
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: AMMAR SEMINAR
Stan, I will be attending the seminar also, and will look forward to
meeting you.. The location (Jack where are you??) is at the community
center just east of the corner of Archibald and Arrow, just past the
center with Jack-in-the-box in it.. (it's on the south east) If my
directions are not clear enough, call Jack Taves at (818) 914-1288
Msg #4480 Dated 21:21:39 12-30-90
From: KEN HENSLEY
To: ALL
Re: 100% SANKEY
Just thought I would include my thoughts on Jay Sankey's new book, 100%
Sankey.. I think it is a fine work with some great bits, my favorite
of which is the first routine in the book "Definitaly Warped" The
effect is a card warp, but you only use ONE card.. You take a card,
fold it, then proced to turn it inside out.. One of the other fine
things in the book is "Tiro" a new version of Stapled in which two like
cards are stapled togeather, then a card is selected, then the two
stapled cards vanish, only to be found in the middle of the deck with
the signed selection between them.. If you like Sankey, this book is
a must!!
Msg #4481 Dated 21:31:39 12-30-90 4476 <--> 4483
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: RISING CARDS UH HUH
To be honest I felt the crank handle gave it away. Your rotation of a
pencil is not detected -- you DO NOT want them to think anything is
being "cranked" -- I really thought he blew it with that variant.
Msg #4483 Dated 21:39:06 12-30-90 4476 <--> 4499
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: RISING CARDS UH HUH
"Devil" also was promoting a crank handle...like a small manual
automobile window crank with a clear plastic suction cup at a recent
Castle Sunday lecture. Cute.
Msg #4484 Dated 21:46:36 12-30-90 4477 <--> 4486
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
hmmm...next thing ya know, someone else will be doing my "Linking
Rings" routine...or maybe my famous "Professor's Nightmare"...or my
"Needle Baloon Penetration"...Oh, well...
I guess I can always fall back on my trusty "Hippity Hop Rabbits"!!!
Msg #4485 Dated 21:51:48 12-30-90 4469 <--> 4487
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CRIDGE REVEALED!
Now here is the acid test of the MAGIC! code of ethics...
I'll tell you this much...
If, in the near future, I see the Cridge Card advertised by Tony Spina,
I'm gonna be pissed!
And I certainly hope NOT to see this in the next Abbott's catalogue!
(By the way, does anyone know their address?)
MUM's the word with me, Pete!
I will be curious to see if the flow of secrets really can stop here.
IF SO, WHAT A WONDERFUL TOOL THIS BBS COULD BE!
IMAGINE THE ABILITY TO SHARE, TRADE AND COMPARE WITHOUT THE FEAR OF
YOUR PET EFFECT SHOWING UP IN THE LATEST SIX DOLLAR KARL FULVES BOOK!
Msg #4486 Dated 22:35:12 12-30-90 4484 <--> 4517
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
What's "trusty" about Norman's Elusive Rabbitts? (The actual name).
Msg #4487 Dated 22:36:56 12-30-90 4485 <--> 4529
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: CRIDGE REVEALED!
Now you're asking for real magic.
OK, here's another one following... out of my real repertoire.
Msg #4488 Dated 22:37:34 12-30-90
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: CAGED
How many of you out there have a vanishing birdcage, but don't
like having a pull -- and the cage stuck up your sleeve for the
rest of the show after you have done the vanish?
None of you, right!
The first magician I ever recall seeing was a fellow
Hungarian named Steve Sheperd. And one of his features was the
vanishing birdcage. I can still remember his act. It was at a
Hungarian social club my parents brought me to see.
Sheperd finished the vanish by asking members of the
audience if they wanted to search him, to find the cage.
He took off his coat, they looked through it, no cage. He
took off his shirt. No cage. In the end he stood there in a pair
of polka dot shorts... no cage was ever found.
This really impressed me -- and bothered me for years.
I had no idea where or how he got rid of the cage.
So, for a long time I kept thinking about it and figured he
had to have some kind of release mechanism to get rid of the
pull, or some kind of mechanical set up that I didn't know of.
Consequently I tried all kinds of hookups, pulls, break-a-
way releases, you name it I tried it.
Then one day, after failing to come up with anything that
didn't have a couple-a-percent chance of failing, breaking, not
releasing, getting hung up... I hit on the perfect set up.
Probably the best, simplest hook up ever for doing the
vanishing birdcage.
Whats more the set up is instantaneous. You don't need to
tie any pull onto your wrist. There are NO parts to adjust,
nothing to catch, no clips, no hooks, or as they say, "No Srings,
Honest Weight".
What could it be? Simple as pie. All you need is a length of
heavy nylon fishing line. Very heavy.
You need to fiddle with the length to get it just right for
your body, arm length, etc. But once you have it... you have it.
And once you see what it is, there is no setting up, other than
putting the cage down your sleeve.
With the fishing line you make a large, single loop that
goes on the end of the cage, where there is usually a hold
drilled to attach whatever type pull you use. Now, the loop goes
up the sleeve that you will use for the cage, across your back
and down your other sleeve and simply LOOPS OVER YOUR THUMB.
Again, you have to work out the best length for yourself.
Now, to perform, as an opener, you have the cage already set
and between your hands. And, as you should know, when you
straighten the arms the cage collapses and flies up your sleeve.
You can also do this by reaching behind a table and
pretending to get the cage, but in reality you pull it from the
sleeve and set up.
There is also another method using a loop. The loop goes
from thumb to thumb and the cage is set up in a holder with a
Hook at the corner and you merely hook the loop to do the trick.
But that isn't the real point of this system.
The advantage here is you can get rid of the cage in a
fraction of a second and be CLEAN. Free to move and work, and
even be searched.
After the vanish, you get the loop OFF your thumb, and with
the right hand (assuming the cage went up your right sleeve) you
can reach into a suitcase, or behind a nightclub table, or into a
large paper bag and in a tossing action let the cage fly into the
table, case or bag and the nylon line pull will follow and
Viola... all is gone, done, you is clean, it is over.
You could even hang it on an assistant's back, leave it in a
batch of silks... all kinds of things.
One magician used to have a really deep rear trouser pocket,
and would unhook the cage and leave it in his back pocket.
Of course then there is the tall Texan, Walter Zaney Blaney,
he wears his cage day in and day out... he even sleeps with it
hooked up... So, this may not be for everyone, but what the
hey... someone might like it.
Billy McComb used to do the cage, regularly, with a Martin
Lightning Pull. And at Billy's first Royal Command Performance,
where he was set to do the cage, Al Koran sent him a telegram
congratulating his appearance before the Queen of England, and
finished the 'gram with "And I hope your pull doesn't break!"
Billy said it put the fear into him, he left it out and
hasn't done the cage since!
Msg #4490 Dated 23:05:02 12-30-90 4427 <--> 4496
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: BICYCLE DECKS
Stan,
I am interested in getting two from you. Let me know about getting you
the funds. I would prefer numbers under 9 for both. Thanks for the
offer of doing the work.
Doug
Msg #4491 Dated 23:19:31 12-30-90 -> 4539
From: VINCENT HANCOCK
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: FOCUS
I have your book, Focus, and I must say I think it is great! I
especially like the "Index of Sleights," as I have never been able to
find a book that has most (if not all) packet counts, spreads, etc. I
think the way you worded the instructions came out veru nice, easy to
follow and understand. Indeed, as Stephen Minch said in the
introduction, it is not a book just to browse rough. Anyways I wanted
you to know at I feel you produced an excellent book, and I am enjoying
it very much. I probably should have first read more than 5 pages before sayi
ng this much, but I am
enjoying it already so I thought I'd let you know.
Msg #4494 Dated 0:30:00 12-31-90 4459 <--> 4528
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGICAL MUTTERINGS
TABMAN -- That is an INCREDIBLE summary of MAGIC! in 1990! I think I'm
gonna frame it! Have a GREAT New Year! (And keep track, 'cause we'll
expect the same for the end of 1991!).
Msg #4495 Dated 0:31:56 12-31-90 4462 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: AND OTHERS
Thanks for your kind words, Rick. I like to think of MAGIC! as a
24-hour a day, 365-day a year magic convention. Not the kind where the
shows are all jammed, but the kind where you can get into discussions
with other magi and one of 'em says, "Let me show you something" and
the next thing you know it's 4 a.m.
Msg #4496 Dated 0:33:57 12-31-90 4463 <--> 4497
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BICYCLE DECKS
A half deck force deck? Gee, what will they think of next? Prob'ly
making one half the cards slightly shorter than the others... Or making
some rough and some smooth.
Msg #4497 Dated 0:35:36 12-31-90 4478 <--> 4527
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: KEN HENSLEY (X)
Re: BICYCLE DECKS
That is INCREDIBLE, Ken! I've never been too partial to racer or fan
backs, but now I'm gonna snap up any I see! (By the way, I got in on
that Thrify sale, thanks to the tip here on MAGIC!, and raided a couple
of Thrifty's. I now have 18 new decks. Should last a week or two.
Just think, in a few years you will see collector's ads for "U. S.
Playing Cards Fan Back, Blue, Unopened, $400.00 or best offer."
Msg #4498 Dated 0:38:18 12-31-90 4465 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BUSH LEAGUE MAGIC
Thanks. I knew there had to be something to do with all those jokers.
Msg #4499 Dated 0:38:48 12-31-90 4466 <--> 4500
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RISING CARDS UH HUH
Maybe. I don't think the audience would really glom on to the
rubberized pencil. By the way, there are some nice things that can be
done with those pens that change from blue to red, or the new ones that
change from a pen to a pencil. If the audience has seen you write with
the blue pen, you can almost use the red pen or the pencil in place of
a nail writer. (Tabman, you ponderin' that one?).
© 1997 QuestX Webs with All Rights Reserved.MAGIC! and this approved web site are protected under U.S. copyright law. MAGIC! ® and The Global Magicians Network ® are registered Service Marks and are the property of the registree. Licensed to questx Webs 1997. All Rights Reserved. Copyright violation includes the display of this page in a "frame" as part of another page. Content of this site cannot be used without prior permission.