MAGIC! - 14
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 #6500 Dated 16:56:28 02-05-91
From: STAN LAKE
To: DOUG LARSEN
Re: FORCE DECKS
Attention Doug Larson wherever you are. I have four force decks for
you if you still want them. If not, please leave a note and I will
give them to someone else if I do not hear from you by 2-9-91. Thanks.
Msg #6501 Dated 17:18:55 02-05-91 -> 6505
From: MARVIN STERN
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
I see by this message to David that you are a cameraman. Correct?
Film cameraman, I trust. Let me know. I'm in the motion picture
equipment field, selling and renting professional motion picture
equipment in Hollywood.
Msg #6504 Dated 20:43:31 02-05-91 -> 6529
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: ALL
Re: RING 21 NEWSLETTER
The following articles are excerpts from February 1991 edition of
"THE FLEMING FLASHPAPER" which is the official newsletter of the IBM
Caryl Fleming Ring 21 in Hollywood California.
===================================================================
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> OUR NEXT MEETING <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
===================================================================
Our next meeting will be held on THURSDAY FEBRUARY 7, 1991 at the
Wattles Mansion located at 1834 N. Curson in Hollywood. The doors
will open at 7:00 pm for an hour of comraderie and fellowship. A
short business meeting will be held at 8:00 pm followed by a special
presentation and then our competitions. Our February meeting will
feature CLOSE-UP COMPETITION NIGHT. This competition is open to any
Ring 21 member in good standing. Competition is limited to a
maximum 5 minute routine or effect. Those going over the allotted
time will be disqualified. All performances are to be videotaped for
use by the awards committee in determining this years award winners.
All awards will be presented at our Annual Awards Banquet in
October.
Non-Members may participate in the competition on a space
available basis. However, they are not eligible to receive any
performance awards. All entrants must be prepared to perform twice
as we expect a large turnout of members and guests and will probably
set up two areas for performances. This way everyone attending will
be able to see all performances without being crammed into one room.
If you would like to participate in our Close-Up Competition,
please contact Joe Selph at (213) 660-2998 to register your name as
a performer.
====================================================================
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> OUR NEWEST MEMBER <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
====================================================================
The Caryl Fleming Ring 21 extends a big welcome to MEL STEIN,
our newest member!!! Mel had his second reading and was voted in at
our January meeting. Mel is in the printing business as well as
movie and television production! His specialty in magic is cards,
coins and comedy! He is also a member of S.A.M. and The Magic
Castle. Welcome to Ring 21.
====================================================================
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> DAY OF MAGIC UPDATE <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
====================================================================
As you know, plans are well underway for the 1991 "DAY-OF-MAGIC"
on May 4th at UCLA's Schoenberg Hall. Registrations are already
starting to come in for this unique one-day convention sponsored by
Ring 21. Best of all, this year's line-up of talent is even better
than last years. The "DAY-OF-MAGIC" features 12 lectures and
workshops on everything from Close-Up to Stage Theory &
Presentation, all under one roof in one day!! There is also a
dealer's area twice the size of last year, a spectacular stage show
and a party after the show! All this for the low price of $55.00 per
person. Don't let this year's "DAY-OF-MAGIC" pass you by like last
year. There will be something for everyone, regardless of the type
of magic that you do! So don't miss out on this opportunity and send
you check before April 15th!!! For more information about the
"DAY-OF-MAGIC", please contact Will Chandler at (818) 286-1937. .
====================================================================
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> GOOD AND WELFARE <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
====================================================================
As most of you have probably heard, Michael Ammar broke his
wrist mid-January, causing him to cancel his lecture tour to the
West Coast. Doctors say he will have to be in a cast for 3-4 months
due to the location of the fracture. But, pending no further
complications, Michael plans to back to normal in no time and
hopefully will be able to join us for our "DAY-OF-MAGIC" in May! An
we hope to see him then, too!!!
====================================================================
Apparently Rick Rasmussen is back in the hospital again. I'm sure he
would appreciate hearing from you. His address is P.O. Box 42755,
Los Angeles, CA. 90050. For more details, contact Bill Cosko at the
Magic Castle in Hollywood. Get well soon, Rick!!!!
====================================================================
Bob Coleberd is "up & running" again after his multiple by-pass
surgery. A phone call to him found him in a chipper mood. He says he
hopes to be at our February meeting and also says "Hello" to
everyone.
====================================================================
On a sad note, the magical fraternity has suffered a great loss with
the passing of SLYDINI in New York early in January. He had been in
ill health for quite some time. Ring 21 extends it's sympathy to his
family.
====================================================================
This message was posted to this board by: Darrell Murphy
For more information about Ring 21 contact Darrell Murphy on this
network or contact President Joe Selph at (213) 660-2988.
Msg #6505 Dated 20:53:31 02-05-91 6501 <--> 6507
From: PETE BIRO
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
Marvin, you don't rent still equipment do you? I need a 300 mm 2.8
Nikon Autofocus for a job in San Diego in a couple of weeks.
Msg #6507 Dated 21:12:31 02-05-91 -> 6508
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
Thanks. I enjoy the "Flashpaper" when you "put it up." Wish I lived
closer. Ya'll come.
Msg #6508 Dated 22:31:43 02-05-91 -> 6509
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
I was merely making the point that in the case of some materials the
copyright needs to be assigned. That it may not automatically belong
to someone.
Msg #6509 Dated 22:34:02 02-05-91 -> 6510
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
Don't worry, Pete. I know a guy who teaches dove work and zombie
balls. He can have you earning big bucks as a performer in no time
flat.
Msg #6510 Dated 22:34:54 02-05-91 -> 6542
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
Will do! He'll probably know I'm a friend of yours -- I'll be carrying
a camera myself.
Msg #6512 Dated 22:39:38 02-05-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LARGE CARD
Yeah! With a magic wand/bar code reader! Great idea, Pete!
Personally, I've always loved that gag prediction trick where the magi
says, "Think of any item in a grocery store. Now picture the price.
OK, would you believe that I have it right here in this large sealed
envelope." Lotsa buildup. Tears open envelope and produces large bar
code.
Msg #6513 Dated 22:42:23 02-05-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC! SYSTEM
I was in Vegas a couple of weeks ago. I suspect that ALL the hotels
have changed their tune. The place looked very empty (didn't get to
the Mirage, but the Trop and the what-cha-macallit new castle across
the street were about as busy as Grant's tomb). I suspect that when
you are hungry you suddenly decide that television ain't all that bad.
Msg #6515 Dated 22:47:23 02-05-91 -> 6535
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BELLS AND WHISTLES
OK, Pete, we'll work on some whistles. Technically, you aren't hearing
bells, you are hearing "feeps." According to the Hacker's Dictionary
(which was compiled from a file on ARPANET that was composed over many
years), feep, as a noun, describes "the soft electronic 'bell' of a
display terminal (except for a DEC VT-52). By contrast, the feeper on
a DEC VT-52 terminal has been compared to the sound of a '52 Chevy
stripping its gears."
The effect you described reminded me of Jim Kahlert's variation on
"Scarne's Lie Speller" which Scarne says came from "an idea suggested
by Martin Gardner." In the Kahlert version you attach a pseudo-"lie
detector" (made out of a matchbox, as I recall) to the spectator and
pretend to read the strip that comes out of it. Guess a clever
magician could work out a variation of this to be done while standing
next to the fax machine in a client's office.
Msg #6516 Dated 23:02:57 02-05-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMA STUFF
Now THAT is an incredible piece of magic (and MAGIC!) history! An
actual check from Joe Berg to Theo. Bamberg, written in 1949! AND hand
framed by Tabby Crabb! Somebody is really going to get something
fantastic here!
This is the sort of thing your kids fight about when it comes time to
read the will!
MAGIC! is grateful to Tabby and to the anonymous donor. Sometime
Tabman is gonna drop out to the left coast and we're gonna put a Magic
Castle banquet together for him! As to the donor -- I know who you are
and I'm awed.
Msg #6518 Dated 23:18:15 02-05-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CARD BOX
GOOD GRIEF, TABMAN! That is the phone number of the "Directorate for
Public Communications for the Secretary of Defense"!!! And I thought
I was hot stuff, walking around with the number for the Senate
Republican Cloakroom (202-224-8601). Notice any unmarked vans with
extra antennas in your neighborhood? Good thing you are moving!
I wish I had your talent for building stuff with wood. Always dreamed
of doing it, but knew that even if I had all the gear I'd never have
the time. Oh, well, if you ever need any programming for the chips,
let me know.
Msg #6519 Dated 23:22:33 02-05-91 -> 6543
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: S.A.M.
What time are the meetings, Marv? I've been spending some time in
Alhambra lately.
Msg #6523 Dated 23:58:15 02-05-91
From: JIM SISTI
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGIC MENU/MERTZ
Just to let you know, the July/August issue of "The Magic Menu" will be
a Ray Mertz/Forks Hotel issue. Ray contributed an entire issue of
stuff, so we decided to put it out at once rather than space it out a
piece at a time. BTW, the issue with "Torn" in it will be in your
hands in twoeeks. Thanks again...
Jim
Msg #6529 Dated 1:26:56 02-06-91 6504 <--> 6541
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: RING 21 NEWSLETTER
Thanks for the electronic "Flashpaper" and the Ring 21 news, Darrell.
I hope to be at the Day of Magic.
Msg #6531 Dated 8:07:48 02-06-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: GINZA
Seeing it all there in one spot would be almost like
going into the crypt at Davenport's. Even five minits would make
for some great memories. I'd love to scope in on some antique
drawer boxes. I bought a little cigarette box someplace in the
Ginza dist of Tokyo just before Siagon. It was made in China.
Guess it must be in the five boxes (ten years there) in the Black
Sombrerro's barn at Sky High Farm where I used to have my horse
Three Weeks (appaloosa-his name).
The Chinese drawer box cost but a few cents. Diabolical
in construction and operation it requires minimal movement to
lock and unlock the drawer. Also brought a friend a larger box
which is more like a puzzle and requiring several linear
movements to accomplish opening the drawer.
BTW - I'm going to put you on to someone who might be
able to stear you to that lens you need. He and I grew up
together (yes, still friends after 40 years) in Americus, GA. He
is unit photo for Lucas Films, etc....Star Wars, Raiders Lost
Ark, Back To Future....he shoots Nikon and has a pal with Nikon
who arranges for him to get whatever he needs. Also pilot with
the birddog stunt team out of Chino Apt. Nelson lives in Santa
Monica with girlfriend who is publicity at Fox Films. Phone ##
coming over private next message. Call him as he's a super guy.
Tell him I sed call. I'll call him today and tell him he may be
hearing from you. He's home right now having just finished film
and doing other stuff. Nelson's dad produced "Lillies Of The
Field" and "Charlie" and was a flyer (as was my dad) during WWII.
Also directed Twilight Zone for a while. Don't believe anything
he says about me though as it isn't true. He only thinks he saw
me do that.
Got a card from Obie Obrien today and it looks like I
made the FFFF list (Harrison, tell Ray). Longest bass solo in the
history of primitive music that night. Nice hotel ya'll picked
out for the IBM Convention. Should be an excellent affair. That
5th floor bar should make for a super hangout area. Very
comfortable, good parking lot, excl restaurants, bay water and
even the Balto Aquarium if anybodys got a hanker to view fish.
Well, I've wasted enough of your time (as if anybody had
enuf).
Call Nelson.
Msg #6535 Dated 9:57:47 02-06-91 6515 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: BELLS AND WHISTLES
Remind me to tell the Karrell Fox/Henry Ford story (am late for an
appoiintment rigtht now!!!)
Msg #6537 Dated 10:47:03 02-06-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: SLATE BOOK
Am looking for Billy Robinson's Slate Book....(he was later Chung Ling
Soo)....
Msg #6541 Dated 13:02:11 02-06-91 6529 <--> 6545
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: RING 21 NEWSLETTER
Your Welcome. I upload excerpts from "THE FLEMING FLASHPAPER" as a
service to RING 21. I know there are alot of MAGIC!itte's out there who
don't live in Los Angeles/Hollywood but I figured there might be some
information that they might enjoy reading about. I would like to
encourge other IBM/SAM members to post there own club newsletter to
MAGIC! as I know I would enjoy reading about what is happening in magic
in other areas of the country. After all as the Tabman has said in many
of his profound writings, we are a community unto ourselves with no
boundrys (except the phone bill).
Msg #6542 Dated 14:23:36 02-06-91 6505 <--> 6554
From: MARVIN STERN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
Sorry. We no longer rent still equip. At one time we had about
everything in 35mm, 2 1/4, 4x5 and 8x10. If Tabby's friend can't come
through, there is a good still rental house in L.A., and I can give you
their phone, if you want. If you deceide to use them, it's necessary
to make arraignments enough in advance. If you happen to bump into my
son in San Diego, saw hello for me. But no lawyer jokes, as he is an
attorney. Good shooting.
Msg #6543 Dated 14:34:26 02-06-91 6519 <--> 6546
From: MARVIN STERN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: S.A.M.
The SAM meetings start at 8 PM. I've added you to the mailing list so
you will receive notice. Usually The Wand arrives just a few days
before the meeting. Should it go to 900 or 1000? I know I asked this
before, but remember that the memory is the 2nd thing to go.
Msg #6545 Dated 15:43:58 02-06-91 6541 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: RING 21 NEWSLETTER
We will be glad to carry info from other IBM Rings, from SAM Chapters,
and from other local clubs. Thanks for regularly posting the Ring 21
Flashpaper.
Msg #6546 Dated 15:47:01 02-06-91 6543 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: S.A.M.
Thanks for the SAM info. If I'm in the area on the first Monday of
March, I'll try to be there. Thanks for getting the Wand to me so that
I'll remember.
As to addresses, we have several. Here are two:
David Lichtman, ECA Inc., P. O. Box 900, Arleta, Ca. 91334
David Lichtman, ECA Inc., P. O. Box 1000, Arleta, Ca. 91334
Both work equally well. Generally I prefer the 900 one, but it really
doesn't matter.
Msg #6549 Dated 15:53:49 02-06-91
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 #6550 Dated 16:48:47 02-06-91 -> 6570
From: MARVIN STERN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: SAM
If you are able to make the March 4th Assembly 22 meeting, remind me
and you can make an announcement about MAGIC. Also, you can bring
sheets with phone number, etc., and we'll put them out for whomever
might want one. Or is it for whoever wants one?
Msg #6552 Dated 17:58:44 02-06-91 -> 6569
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: PETER PIT
(5) 06 Feb 91 15:27:00
By: Arnaud Van.Rietschoten
To: Magic-Us
Re: Letter for Pete Pit
St:
------------------------------------------------------------
Message for the attention of Dante Larsen.
.
Dante,
.
I assume you regularly meet and see Peter Pit. Would you be so kind to
ask
him if you would write an article/message for MAGIC!-NL.
I think our members would really appreciate to to be informed about his
business at the moment. How's he doing, what's new in Hollywood, etc.
By no means it should be a kind of regular column, although we
certainly
should not forbid it......
.
Of course he can write it in Dutch. The message can reach NL if posted
on
the US MAGIC! BBS to the destination of MAGIC-NL.
.
Many thanks in advance,
Arnaud van Rietschoten, Sysop MAGIC!-NL.
Msg #6553 Dated 18:02:28 02-06-91 -> 6572
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: ALL
Re: HELLO FROM ARNOUD
(2) 05 Feb 91 22:19:00
By: Arnoud Van Delden
To: Magic-Us
Re: hi there! This is me!
St:
------------------------------------------------------------
Hi U.S.Amigo's
.
As you could have guessed from my logname, my name is Arnoud
vanDelden. 'Arnoud' is not a common name around here so it's a
total coincidence that Arnaud's (Your sysop) and my name (Not
ArnAud but ArnOud) are so look alike. Maybe another magical
coincidence is that our prime magical interests are in the same
field, and that we studied at the same college. I was there after
he finished it, we met later through magic. We are both interes-
ted in video and computers al well, maybe that's the reason we
end up mixed up by some people every now-and-then. Apart from a
good friendship, I serve Arnaud as your help SYSOP as well: Guess
some people will get us mixed up even more now...
.
Who am I? I'm a 25 years old male magic devotee, with deep
interests in the close-up field of our wonderful craft. Although
sleight of hand with cards has my love, I like all sorts of
commercial magic; especially odd themes. Recently I became inter-
ested more in comedy stage magic. Began thinking about and
performing (must be awfull but charming then) magic at the age of
5 (five, that is!) years. Nobody in my neighbourhood or family
did any magic and good books were not available for me then. At
age 9, I started visiting (my mother brought me by car) Henk
Vermeydens TRIKS studio (Amsterdam). There I found out that quite
a lot of people were performing magic and that clubs and
magazines were available, up to then I never thought this was
possible. I became a member of a club in 1985 and since then
developed more than in all years before because I saw the pro's
performing at the convention gala's. I've never been a big roller
for the dealers because books have my main interest, and a fresh
deck now and then.
.
1989 was the first year I entered the Dutch Anual Magic
convention in the Close-Up category. I won 1st prize in Close-Up,
and was overall convention winner (Grand Prix was not given that
year). Last year (1990) I entered again with something different,
and again made it to the highest prize in Close-Up. Because I
moved and started living on my own, I didn't found the time to
prepare for this years' Dutch convention or Lausanne. Maybe next
time? Lots of ideas, to less time...
.
Although some months proved to be exeptions, my main income is
not from magic; I work as a systems analist (and occasional
magical PR member) at AT&T Network Systems The Netherlands.
Perform as much magic as I can in the week-ends and evenings so I
sometimes end up with just to less sleep. (Something we all know
eh?) I am also interested in synthesizers and other MIDI stuff. I
have a small MIDI audio recording studio, and some electronical
instruments (Roland MT-32, Yamaha DX-11, Yamaha REX-50, Cheetah
keyboard...) but my musical efforts are overtaken by my magic (I
hope...) I also like to play around with electronics (I have my
own 'Muppet-Lab'), do some drawing and painting and was a Disk
Jockey on a (small) local radio station for some years. Again to
less time.
.
Well, very short, that's it! Any questions, ask! See ya around
here on the Big BBS.
.
Arnoud vanDelden (The one with the 'O')
Msg #6554 Dated 18:01:23 02-06-91 6501 <--> 6555
From: STAN LAKE
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
No, that was just a bit of a joke about Stan the Cameraman. (Hope this
comes out ok with all of this line noise) You see, I took a class in
magic last weekend and while some people were scrawling notes on paper
I had my video equipment set up to record the whole thing! Muc-h more
precise than mere notes. That's the only experience I have wOth camera
stuff.
Msg #6555 Dated 18:30:20 02-06-91 6542 <--> 6566
From: PETE BIRO
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
Thanks Marvin. No need to get a lens now, just had a slight change in
the assignment and the 180 will be fine. talk atcha
Msg #6556 Dated 18:34:06 02-06-91 -> 6573
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: MOVIN'
Tomorrow is it. The truck cometh. And in a few days will be opening
boxes labeled "MAGIC STUFF" that have been in storage for over two
years. I sure hope I find my Egg Bag soon!
Ripped all the wires out, unplugged the phones, etc. and am boxing up
the computers/printers/faxes/scanners etc. BUT TRUSTY NEC LAPTOP is in
action. By Friday the truck will unload and I'll start hookin up agian.
Got to say the inerest and activity here on MAGIC! has kept me from
going nuts under all this stress: Divorce, packin' and movin! But as
the rock 'n roll song says, "My future's so bright I gotta wear
shades!"
Be in touch, gang... keep shufflin!
Msg #6560 Dated 21:03:15 02-06-91 -> 6586
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: THE LUCKIEST...
Ok...
Saddam Hussein is now being sought for membership in Alchoholics
Anonymous....Hussein was reportedly last seen somewhere in Baghdad
getting "bombed!"
Msg #6561 Dated 21:19:33 02-06-91 -> 6567
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: CASTLE AWARDS
Was at the Castle last night and Bill Larson mentioned that he had
lined up an emcee for the upcoming Awards Banquet...Robert Hayes, actor
from the recent TV series, "FM"...also from the movie "Airplane" and
many others. Bob was there at the Castle last night, in fact, and we
got to chat about the "good ol' days" when he was playing Donna
Pescow's husband on the sitcom, "ANGIE" and I was performing the
audience warmups for the show on off weeks. That was back in the
seventies...How come he still looks the same??? I'll wager he's got a
portrait in the closet that looks like hell!!!
Well, gotta get to Thrifty for some Grecian Formula before they close!
Msg #6562 Dated 21:24:31 02-06-91 -> 6578
From: HOWARD SCHWARZMAN
To: ALL
Re: MINI #3
Hi gang, I've just uploaded my mini magic catalogue #3. I' still
having problems doing the UL stuff and hope it got there intact.
Laura and I flew over to Atlantic City, NJ again last Saturday to
visit -Z* - John and Tami Calvert. Tami made us an oriental
lunch aboard the yacht Magic Castle II. Great. After lunch I let
John fly my airplane. He did good. After all, it was he in 1946
that inspired me to become a pilot as well as a magician. I hope
you folks get to see him at the Seminar or the IBM conventions. His
show is a classic as is John. Regards, Howie.
Msg #6563 Dated 22:37:39 02-06-91 -> 6564
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: LOOKING FORWARD TO HEARIN
Thanks. I find it a bit odd that Paul doesn't call it an "adaptation"
or even "new - improved" just zig zag. This does seem a bit bold to say
the least.
Msg #6564 Dated 22:40:41 02-06-91 -> 6568
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LOOKING FORWARD TO HEARIN
Please allow 4 to six weeks ...... actually, books at the mailers so
the Feb issue will go to Guala.
Msg #6566 Dated 22:54:15 02-06-91 -> 6577
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
Suppose a club owns a tape, like the Magic Castle, Is a member gonna
have to write a letter to Joe Stevens everytime he wants to watch a
tape? Magic video tapes are not the cheapest videos on the market. Does
the "Library" have to be registered with Washington? It is not a
"public" library. I often thought that someone could sell twice as many
tapes if that person cut the price in half thus eliminating the pirate
or a*****e as he/she is affectionately known. just a thought.
Msg #6567 Dated 23:07:29 02-06-91 6561 <--> 6575
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: CASTLE AWARDS
Hayes did some MC type interviewing stuff for us at the Long Beach
Grand Prix and he was terrific. Maybe this is his son?
Msg #6568 Dated 23:08:57 02-06-91 6564 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: LOOKING FORWARD TO HEARIN
Thanks Dante... I still haven't read the last seven issues (just
kidding) but I have a lot of catching up to do with the move. Have
cartons of books, tricks, etc. that have not been opened for over two
years.
Msg #6569 Dated 23:21:02 02-06-91 6552 <-
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: PETER PIT
I will forward the kind offer to the peter pit. I just saw him
yesterday. shoot. Next time he's at the Genii office I'll have him post
a letter direct om MAGIC! and freak all the U.S. members into thinking
they have line noise. (letter would be in Dutch) as the pete biro would
say: heh heh.
Msg #6570 Dated 23:51:10 02-06-91 6550 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: SAM
Of course, you could make an announcement about MAGIC! and even
distribute the phone number and sign on instructions (remember - new
users MUST leave a comment with address, phone and a resume of their
magical background in order to be allowed into MAGIC!) without me being
present. But I will try to attend anyway. Or is it any way?
Msg #6571 Dated 23:54:35 02-06-91 -> 6585
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MUSIC COPYRIGHT
Hi Tabby,
Since you have some knowledge of copyright law and mucho knowledge of
the recording industry I was a wonderin' if oyou could post the rules
and regs concerning using recorded music in a public magic performance.
In other woids, who do I pay and how much for the rights to use said
music. THanks
Msg #6572 Dated 23:57:44 02-06-91 6553 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: HELLO FROM ARNOUD
To: Arnoud vanDelden
Welcome to MAGIC-NL and to MAGIC! (U.S.) I read your message with a
great deal of interest. In addition to magic, I am also interested in
MIDI music (but at a very amatuer level). I use an Amiga with a Yamaha
PSS-480. Once upon a time I was also a disk jockey. But while some of
those interests come and go, magic has always been my longest running
activity.
We look forward to your comments both on MAGIC-NL and on MAGIC!
Msg #6573 Dated 0:01:59 02-07-91 6556 <--> 6623
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MOVIN'
I sure hope you don't find out that you left an egg in that egg bag.
Even Malini wouldn't work with that.
You're damn right your future is as near as tomorrow, Pete. There is
a clean sunny world beyond Gualala.
Msg #6575 Dated 0:05:25 02-07-91 6561 <--> 6604
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: CASTLE AWARDS
Gee, I was at the Castle tonite and I don't think anybody that famous
was there. My how times change.
I was sheparding a group of about 18 people around. Most of 'em new to
the Castle. It was great fun to see the place through their eyes.
Due to all the tracking I had to do (I had thought of tying 'em
together like kindergarten kids, but only had three short pieces of
rope [where is Mac King when you need him?]). Anyway, I only got to the
Palace and one Close-up Show.
But let me tell you, both were great. Brad Cummings did an incredible
vent performance. This guy is a must see. And Larry Wilson & Co. did
Larry Wilson and Co. -- very funny, effective stuff.
But the mindblower of the evening was Whit Haydn. That guy is
something else! Incredible to watch (speaking of watches, he glomed
mine and sent it back in an envelope in a wallet). His real secret is
not technical expertise - although he is terrific. It is the stuff
that Biro is always after us about - timing, presentation, and a solid
sense of personal style.
Msg #6577 Dated 0:10:19 02-07-91 6566 <--> 6652
From: T A WATERS
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
No -- he wouldn't have to check with Joe Stevens to view a tape at the
Castle any more than someone who checks a novel of mine out of the
public library has to check with me. The point all this is revolving
around is using copyrighted material in a resale fashion for profit; it
is possible to interpret what the instructor was doing as trying to
give his class added value and thus commercial appeal by showing
copyrighted videos. If he learned stuff from the videos and taught it
there would be no problem, because he would not then be in at least
technical violation of copyright.
By the way -- in recent years courts have been more liberal in the
way they interpret copyright violation in favor of the writer, which is
quite a change. In a recent case involving a screenplay about a robot
cop the writers won -- not because they had invented the idea of the
robot cop (they hadn't), but because they had used the idea in a
particular way, and this was taken by the studio -- and the studio lost
big. It'd certainly be nice if this could be established for magical
presentations.
Msg #6578 Dated 0:17:28 02-07-91 6562 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: HOWARD SCHWARZMAN (X)
Re: MINI #3
Er, Howie, whatever you did didn't work! We ended up with a file of 0
bytes. Even for a mini-catalog, that's a little small. Please try it
again. Thanks.
Msg #6581 Dated 0:37:44 02-07-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: BIRO'S LETTERS
As promised, the letters from Pete Biro to Fred Kaps have started
arriving from the Netherlands. There are two files now in the MAGIC!
files area:
BIRO#0 - (that's BIR-the letter O-Pound sign [#]-the number 0)
An introduction to the letters by Dick Koornwinder.
BIRO#1 - A letter from Pete to Fred, dated September 16, 1970.
Msg #6582 Dated 0:45:33 02-07-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: CASTLE SCHEDULE
Here is the Castle list of scheduled performers for the week of
February 11th - 14th:
Close-up Early - Mal Cross
Close-up Late - Steve Valenti
Parlour Early - James Spenser
Parlour Late - Billy McComb
Palace of Mystery - Robert Baxt
Jonathan Neal Brown
Liane
Msg #6585 Dated 7:42:01 02-07-91 6571 <--> 6622
From: TABBY CRABB
To: STEVE KUCERA (X)
Re: MUSIC COPYRIGHT
I just got off the phone with my girl at BMI New York
calling as me (TC Roberts of Ancient Springs Music BMI). I told
her that this sob magician named Steve Kucera (just kidding) was
using some of our recorded material in his show and wasn't paying
us any royalty. She told me that if he's working auds and
convention centers or large clubs that the venue would probably
be a signatory and pay direct. I told her he was working birthday
parties and she almost choked. Now she thinks I'm an a******e
(Dante's wordage) blood sucker cause I told her I didn't care if
it was a dime or a dollar I wanted my money.
It all boils down to this:
Write the publisher of each song and ask permission to
use the work. Tell them that you want to comply with the
copyright laws and will pay direct. This will only amount to a
few centavos per play. Keep a log write them a check quarterly
just like the rest of the industry.
At the end of the name of most pub listed on records,
tapes, etc there will be some letters after the name like BMI,
ASCAP or SESAC. You can track any publishing company down by
calling the collection agency (me, I belong to BMI) - they callem
performing rights societies - and asking for either "clearance"
or "publisher relations" and telling them you want to license a
work from a certain publisher (ancient springs ???) and request
the address. Don't mind that the person you're talking to sounds
bothered and bored. Just sound bothered and bored yourself and
she or he will help you just fine. Tell em you're david
copperfield if you want to it'd probably make their day since
most of the people they talk to are bored and bothered publishing
types in the computer room.
Since they're your records and the law allows you to make
one copy for your personal use (always make your copies from the
original to stay within the letter of the law and don't have more
than one copy). If you start distributing them the music police
will nail you and they have a platinum hammer. They're like
retired drummers and bass players in double breasted suits armed
with lawyers and stop orders.
If you keep within this format and work strictly small
time you'll be in good shape and the music publishing industry
will respect you for your compliance with the letter of the law.
When you get into the larger venues you'll already be using
material you have permission to use and they'll like you even
more. Music people love magic. It's the live visual frontier that
the music biz spends millions (videos, lazer lites, etc, etc) to
conquer and you can do it right there on their desk top. License
some music from Warner/Chappell. Drop by their offices (LA at
least) and do it in person. You'd probably have a blast. Go by
BMI and ASCAP in LA. You could probably get some good publicity
that way and maybe (if you can make a friend) end up with a photo
in one of their house organs.
What kind of stuff are you looking for?
Msg #6586 Dated 8:52:27 02-07-91 6560 <--> 6589
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: THE LUCKIEST...
Boooooooooo!!! I don't believe you said that.
Msg #6589 Dated 14:02:05 02-07-91 6560 <--> 6603
From: MARVIN STERN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: THE LUCKIEST...
There's always the 40 year old joke about "Mr. Lucky" or maybe it's
"Lucky-Lucky". But it will have to wait for an eye-ball meeting.
Msg #6590 Dated 14:04:03 02-07-91 -> 6597
From: MARVIN STERN
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: SAM
The SAM meeting is probably not more than 15 minutes from you. Hope
you can make it. Several meetings ago we had Harry Blackstone Jr. as
the guest speaker.
Msg #6591 Dated 15:59:01 02-07-91 -> 6627
From: TABBY CRABB
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: PALLBEARERS
Pallbearer's etc arrived yesterday. many thanks....
Msg #6592 Dated 15:59:34 02-07-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: RAY MERTZ
Glad it worked out...
Msg #6593 Dated 15:59:55 02-07-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: NEW PAD
Welcome home!
Msg #6597 Dated 18:12:51 02-07-91 6590 <-
From: STAN LAKE
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: SAM
If the SAM meeting is only 15 minutes from me I will certainly try to
make it to one soon. If I remember correctly, do the meetings start at
8:00 pm? I'll be sure to look it up first!
Msg #6598 Dated 18:16:03 02-07-91 -> 6601
From: STAN LAKE
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: FUNDRAISER ANNOUNCEMENT
OK Burt, I'll take a copy of Focus too. I can send a check out in
tomorrows mail, (the 8th) or I can wait until Saturday and send you two
checks or a check and three decks of cards. Let me know.
Msg #6599 Dated 18:37:07 02-07-91 -> 6629
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: FLASH
The FLASH tonite has a magic theme...so, so....you can still catch it
Mt and Pacific time if you want. See what became of "Luke Skywalker".
Msg #6601 Dated 19:22:22 02-07-91 6598 <--> 6608
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: FUNDRAISER ANNOUNCEMENT
Send whatever. I'd like to get the $$ in for the _FOCUS_ so I can get
them all at once from my supplier and then take them up to Max's place
for the sig's. Max are you planning any road trips soon?
Msg #6602 Dated 19:24:29 02-07-91 -> 6630
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: WELCOME HOME
Welcome to your new digs. I hope you got the postcard I sent to the new
address. It's always fun to get the first mail that is not labeled
"occupant". Kinda makes it official that you live there if ya know what
I mean. I look forward to reading about things here on MAGIC! that you
rediscover as you open them mystic boxes. (Hope none of 'em have
Pandora's name on them) Good luck getting settled.
Msg #6603 Dated 21:52:48 02-07-91 6589 <--> 6637
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: THE LUCKIEST...
Just goes to show you how quick an audience can turn on you!
It doesn't take that much to turn even a nice guy like Darrell into
Roger-Ebert-With-An-Attitude!
Msg #6604 Dated 21:55:40 02-07-91 6567 <--> 6605
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CASTLE AWARDS
Yeah!!!
(why didn't I think of that?)
THAT'S IT!!!
THAT *MUST* BE IT...
...IT WAS BOB JR.!!!!
whew!!!
Gotta go now...I'm gonna peel off this facial mask and try to shampoo
out the shoe polish from my hair! (You guessed it...Thrifty was closed
last night when I raced over there on a Grecian Formula run!)
Msg #6605 Dated 22:00:33 02-07-91 6575 <--> 6611
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: CASTLE AWARDS
Glad it hear that, David.
I was there on Tuesday night and the Palace show really stunk!
Brad Cummings was hit and miss...mostly miss...some clever stuff,
though...
Larry Wilson was a major disappointment...
He spent most of his stage time making caustic comments about what he
considered to be a lousy audience...well, it made the audience worse
than it ever would have been it he had just done his show...it seemed
to take him FOREVER before he did his first genuine magic effect...to
me and a few others I spoke with, it was a strictly masturbatory
exercise. I'll try to catch the show again over the weekend, but the
second show on Tuesday night was a total waste to both me and my guest.
Glad you got to see Whit. I didn't get into the closeup gallery at all
Tuesday night. Whit is very entertaining in any size setting and I'm
looking forward to seeing him over the weekend.
Msg #6606 Dated 22:13:07 02-07-91 -> 6703
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: I.B.M. MEETING
Sorry I couldn't attend the meeting tonight, Darrell. I just got home
from an exhausting 13-hour recording session and I'm pooped. I've got
your blank tape and I'll get it to you at the next meeting, ok?
Thanks.
Msg #6608 Dated 23:23:01 02-07-91 6601 <--> 6609
From: STAN LAKE
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: FUNDRAISER ANNOUNCEMENT
I will write the check as soon as I log off and get it in tomorrows
mail.
Msg #6609 Dated 23:25:30 02-07-91 6601 <--> 6610
From: MAX MAVEN
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: FUNDRAISER ANNOUNCEMENT
I will be in L.A. until the end of February; after that, touch & go.
Msg #6610 Dated 0:26:18 02-08-91 6598 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: FUNDRAISER ANNOUNCEMENT
Please put me on the list too, Burt. I want that autographed Focus.
Thanks.
Msg #6611 Dated 0:29:20 02-08-91 6605 <--> 6624
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: CASTLE AWARDS
Brad Cummings did very well on Wednesday night. A bit long, but
otherwise there were some really good lines and his delivery was very,
very good.
As I said about Larry Wilson and Co., they did Larry Wilson and Co.
Could that mean that NEITHER of the magic bits that they did were bad?
Whit was GREAT! (And he was complaining afterwards that he hadn't done
well because he was using a new deck). Amazing, by the way, how many
of the bicycle decks with yellow $1 rebate notices were around.
Msg #6613 Dated 5:56:11 02-08-91 -> 6631
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: ALL
Re: CAP AND PENCE
Sorry it has taken me so long to get this information onto the BBS, but
I've been busy (list #3 will be ready in a few weeks). Regarding the
Cap and Pence, it is mentioned in Hocus Pocus Junior. So the idea is
at least that old - 1634. It is described with a great story for
patter. Basically the gentleman presenting it is using the trick to
get some lass to lay down with him. Besides being funny to read an old
English, almost formal description of such, the description also has
some good ideas for presentation. If anyone is interested and I can
find the time I'll type in the exact text.
Charlie
Msg #6614 Dated 5:57:05 02-08-91 -> 6647
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: MAGIC MENU
Jim, I'm thinking of ordering your magazine. Any special rate for a 2
year subscription. I'd like to order the very first 8 issues (2
years). Thanks.
Charlie
Msg #6615 Dated 8:55:23 02-08-91 -> 6666
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: PULLS
In going through some stuff I ran across a western jacket
I used to wear when I played steel in country bands. The interest
here when I tried it on (four sizes too small, oh well) is that I
had made up three utility pulls and had one in each sleeve and
one pinned in the back.
One of my first tricks was a handkerchief pull when I was
a kid and the wonderment (??) on peoples faces as that
handkerchief vanished with no suspicious moves stuck with me a
long time. I tried all manner of clips (even paper clips to get
rid of a bill or card - not too reliable -, suction cups,
magnets, etc).
The clip pulls are simple to make up. Get some alligator
clips from an electronic store. The kind with the soft plastic
sleeve over the thumb push. The plastic cover keeps it from
snagging on your sleeve when it flys so is important.
I found the pulls hard to use at first. They were
difficult to retreive, etc. The sleeved pulls were the hardest to
get to and could not be used unless ample misdirection was
manufactured or taken advantage of.
I once got a coat back from the cleaners with my P&L
cigarette pull neatly enclosed in a plastic bag pinned to the
inside of the jacket and some funny stares from the counter
person, as I'd forgotten to remove it before taking it in. I like
the pull for cigs better than a thumb tip, plus if you're slick
and use a pull that lets the smoke breathe you can retreive it
five minits later still burning. Use a freshly lit one and as
you're pushing it into your hand you can let fly while you're
pushing your finger into your hand. A few cigs into a plastic
thumb tip the tip gets so black it is unusable in my opinion.
I looked for references as to who first was credited with
the pull idea but came up dry. There are a coupla exclellent
illistrations of handkerchief pulls in More Magic pps 210 & 220.
Briefly scanned Les Secrets but missed it if its in there.
Msg #6616 Dated 8:57:57 02-08-91 -> 6632
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: ALL
Re: KOZAK
I would like to get in touch with Paul Kozak. I have a friend who owns
a comedy club in Albuquerque who wants to talk with him. Anyone out
there knows his number or address?? Thanks. Dave
Msg #6618 Dated 9:06:27 02-08-91 -> 6633
From: PATRICE MOORE
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: KROQ
Max, I'm rushing out the door to Stan's, but had to be a little
late so I could tell you I caught you on KROQ this morning.
I thought it was a VERY GOOD spot. They were receptive and you
came off great! All in all, very positive. Kevin & Bean
could have potentially been a pain. But, as I said, it came
off great!
Msg #6619 Dated 10:28:55 02-08-91 -> 6620
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: ALL
Re: HOFZINSER
I just received a nice gift from a collector friend I would like to
share with everybody. It is a quote from a letter written by Dr.
Johann Nepomuk Hofzinser to Carlo Marchini, 15 March 1872, Vienna
"Card effects are the poetry of conjuring.
Without poetry, there could be no poets.
Without card effects, no conjurers, even had one the power to cast
spells.
printed by: Abracadabra Press 1990
This looks like it came from a book. Does anyone know Abracadabra,
or have any idea where this came from? It seems that this sheet is
available for sale and I would like to hear more.
Msg #6620 Dated 12:11:33 02-08-91 6619 <--> 6672
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: HOFZINSER
The quote if from the letter published in THE MAGIC OF
J.N. HOFZINSER translated by RICHARD HATCH. Richard's partner,
Charlie Randall is on here and I think you can still get the book
from them.
The is another quote in an earlier letter to same (who
was a student of Hofz) relating to the same subject:
"You see dear friend, what poetry is to literature,
"cards" are to conjuring. I can think of no performer in our
field who does not skillfully manipulate cards."
Hofzinser was "obsessed with cards" and sold
sets" of gaffed cards to his students.
tabman
Msg #6621 Dated 14:22:13 02-08-91 -> 6673
From: MARVIN STERN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: NEW MEMBER
At today's Fri lunch at the Castle, I think we're going to have a new
sign-up for MAGIC. He'll be contacting you, don't know his name other
than Bob. He's usually at the Fri lunchs, as I am, but haven't really
talked to him much.
Msg #6622 Dated 14:48:48 02-08-91 6585 <--> 6636
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MUSIC COPYRIGHT
The previous message is a good reason why most pro acts get their own
music written for their acts. They hire a writer/composer, he plays it
for them on his keyboard, etc. then if it is finally right they go into
a studio and record it.
You pay him for all rights. That is the best way.
I know a top guy (Frankie Avalon's conductor) who lives in Moreno
Valley (near Riverside Calif.) that is into magic (fan) and has written
the music for Johnny Thompson (Great Tomsoni) and Norm Nielsen. He also
"owes" me a set for my new act. Name: Kieth Droste.
Msg #6623 Dated 14:51:34 02-08-91 6573 <--> 6676
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MOVIN'
YO! I just conted 153 cartons marked either "Books, Videotapes, or
Magic stuff" -- So it will be like Christmas areound this new abode for
some time!! Hah. Already had two dates and turned another one down for
tonight! Ho! Only thing wrong with the place is the phone lines aren't
into the office and am on the kitchen table right now.
No food, no cups or dishes... but what the hey... just eat right out of
the can of Spam and/or Chile (cold, how else?)
Msg #6624 Dated 14:54:15 02-08-91 6575 <--> 6677
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: CASTLE AWARDS
Lary Wilson and Whit Haydn are a couple of my faves as well.
Msg #6627 Dated 14:57:46 02-08-91 6591 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PALLBEARERS
Tamomander! My musical magical joke tellin' amigo from Indiana (Mike
Close) just informed me that Violas and Violins are the same size. It's
just that Violin playrs have larger heads.
Msg #6628 Dated 14:55:22 02-08-91 -> 6653
From: STEVE BRYANT
To: GENO MUNARI
Re: MELINDA
Ever since I first saw her perform, Melinda has become my all-time
favorite magician. I'm looking forward to her new act at the Sands
during the Desert Magic Seminar. Are you still helping with her show?
I hope so. I thoroughly enjoyed your part in her act at the Landmark.
Any comments on her act at the Sands?
Msg #6629 Dated 14:59:07 02-08-91 6599 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FLASH
The FLASH IS MY FAVORITE NEW SHOW... AND HERE I IS WITH NO TV SET.
Msg #6630 Dated 14:59:48 02-08-91 6602 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: WELCOME HOME
Thanks. No mail from you yet, but will chck. Did get note from Busby
that the Erdnase book is being shipped!
Msg #6631 Dated 15:00:28 02-08-91 6613 <--> 6665
From: PETE BIRO
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: CAP AND PENCE
I invented the cap and pence. Altho I did see it a few times before I
invented it.
Msg #6632 Dated 15:01:28 02-08-91 6616 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: KOZAK
His Manager works at the Comedy and Magic Club in Hermosa Beach, Calif.
I don't have access to my files,numbers etc. but you can call info.
Msg #6633 Dated 17:10:46 02-08-91 6618 <--> 6635
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PATRICE MOORE (X)
Re: KROQ
How come we didn't get any advance notice of the KROQ appearance?
Would've liked to tune in.
Msg #6635 Dated 17:20:17 02-08-91 6633 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: KROQ
Me too (I wish)!
Msg #6636 Dated 17:20:37 02-08-91 6622 <--> 6667
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MUSIC COPYRIGHT
Definately best to hire it out and own the copyright
yourself. Be sure to file a copyright both forms SR and PA and
check the box "Work done for hire" on both forms. SR copyrights
the sound recording (arrangement) and PA copyrights the actual
melody (and words if any).
I heard Dr. Lichtman does midi music. A good midi setup
and you've got it all. No need to sweep ashes up off the studio
floor and carry out loads of beer bottles. One intellect (with
soul hopefully) and his keys.
Be sure and get that music done by your friend. Would
love to get a copy when its finished.
Burned the motor out on my shaper today. These beautiful
blue sparks were flying and gray smoke swirled from the housing.
It was so cool, I plugged it in an hour later and watched it
smoke again.
Sorry you missed FLASH last night. Mark, the guy who
played Luke Skywalker, Hamill played the part of a joker type
character who started the show off as a magician about to saw a
girl detective in half. He had an interesting workshop/wearhouse
he was operating out of.
Glad to hear Jeff Busby Publishing's new book is about to
be mailed. Guess notice will come in here on east coast ina
coupla daze. Am looking forward to reading it as it promises to
be good. Also late is the Phil Temple DANTE book, but tabmen are
patient (to a point) and this also promises to be worth having.
Did you get notice of K&G's new offering? A two volume
reprint of the Houdini Conjurer's Monthly for a cool hundred and
seventy five bucks. That's the ticket and bet that Conjurer's
Monthly is in public domain and they picked up the stuff for
nothing. Remember what Peter, Paul and Mary did with all those
old folk songs they pulled out of pd and did a copyright of
arrangement on.
There's a book I want to reprint if I can ever find a
copy. It's quite old and I know all the copyrights have expired.
It was actually published before the copyright reform of 1909 so
just about anything done before then is fair game. Let's see,
Houdini died in October, 1926 so the copyrights ran out in 1976.
I wonder why they waited so long. I've already signed up for a
copy as steep as it is cause there will only be 500? copies done
and I don't have any of the original magazines here in the
library.
Guess I've bent your ear enuf. Hang onto Nelson's number
cuz you never know.
your friend,
the tabman
Msg #6637 Dated 17:25:30 02-08-91 6603 <--> 6702
From: MARVIN STERN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: THE LUCKIEST...
How do we know that he's a nice guy?
Msg #6638 Dated 17:26:27 02-08-91
From: MARVIN STERN
To: GREG
Re: ABOUT TIME
Stop thinking about girls and get active on MAGIC. There are more
important things than girls, booze and working.
Msg #6644 Dated 20:10:21 02-08-91
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: ALL
Re: FUNDRAISER UPDATE
You asked for it, You got it.
The MAGIC! Fundraiser book and Video sale has added several NEW titles.
Among them the following:
Aspen Bar Magic $20.00
Complete Works of Alex Elmsley 40.00
Conjurors Monthly (Limited Edition) 175.00
Great Wizard of The North 50.00
Imagication 35.00
and many others too numerous to mention. There are also copies of books
and tapes available that are now out of print but there is a limited
supply of those. To get the complete list download the new BOOKLIST.TXT
file in a few days after David has had a chance to review it. This will
replace BOOKSALE.TXT
Msg #6646 Dated 20:15:52 02-08-91 -> 6834
From: TABBY CRABB
To: KEN HENSLEY (X)
Re: OKITO BOOK
Hoping QUALITY MAGIC arrived ok and it is what you expected.
Msg #6647 Dated 20:45:03 02-08-91 6614 <-
From: JIM SISTI
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: MAGIC MENU
Charlie...it's $15.00 yearly for 6 issues...we're bi-monthly. But, for
you...such a deal! $25.00 for two years. Let me know if and when you
subscribe if you want the first three issues included. Issue 4 is
about to be released. If you want the first three, you'll get the next
9 to balance out the 2 year subscription. Let me know...we'd love you
to be on board!
Msg #6648 Dated 21:38:10 02-08-91 -> 6654
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: SKULLS
Anybody know a source for lifelike human skulls (real?)??
Msg #6649 Dated 21:38:41 02-08-91 -> 6655
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: GRYMWYR
Checking to see if your booklet GRYMWYR might still be available.
Msg #6652 Dated 22:41:14 02-08-91 6577 <--> 6656
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
All it would probably take is a FIRST stab at it. ie haul the mother
into court and get the point across. Win or lose, a lot of hacks would
think twice.
Msg #6653 Dated 22:49:27 02-08-91 6628 <--> 6681
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: STEVE BRYANT (X)
Re: MELINDA
Geno, while your at it. I have heard Melindas act changed a lot with
her move. I had been anxious to see it and was a bit dissapointed to
say the least. I take it I waited to long?
Msg #6654 Dated 22:52:57 02-08-91 6648 <--> 6670
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SKULLS
Edmund Scientific has some great body parts. Any horror mag on the
stands is filled with skulls. Plain or decomposed flesh. Yer choice.
Msg #6655 Dated 23:28:35 02-08-91 6649 <-
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: GRYMWYR
No -- I am out of all the books right now; still have a few copies of
the video and that's it.
Msg #6656 Dated 23:29:53 02-08-91 6652 <-
From: T A WATERS
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: MAGIC CLASS
The problem has always been that there really isn't enough mouney in
magic lawsuits to make it worth pursuing -- so people get away with it,
like the two guys who are both selling the Harbin Chair Suspension --
and accusing each other of stealing it!
Msg #6657 Dated 23:43:54 02-08-91
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGIC!-NL
Tabby,
.
thanks for trying to call MAGIC-NL.
I had some initial startup problems, causing my modem to hang after
some had called. This has been solved.
While working on this problem I saw you tried to login, but at that
time my BBS was not yet connected. My communication program hang was
running on the computer. Think it was last sunday at ca. 3:00 hrs pm
Dutch time (=+6 for Eastern and +9 for Western US time..)
.
At this moment still have problems to serve 1200bps users, but am
working onit right now.
.
Hope to see you on MAGIC-NL......
.
Arnaud
Msg #6658 Dated 23:44:29 02-08-91 -> 6662
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: NL
Pete,
.
Just a short note to tell you I have kept your previous file on
MAGIC-NL so you do not have to go to the complete questonnaire
again (have still the same questions......).
Once you have moved give me a short note with your new address
and telephone number, dick is also interested init.
.
Arnaud
.
P.S.
How did you like the first letter, and Dick's introduction?????
Msg #6660 Dated 23:48:15 02-08-91 -> 6675
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: ALL
Re: PAUL DANIELS SHOW #4
>From : Arnaud Van.Rietschoten
To : All
.
Subj : Paul Daniels show 2 feb 91
.
------------------------------------------------------------------
This is a review of the Pauj Daniels show as broadcasted Saturday
February 2nd 1991, on BBC I.
.
Opening effect : On Glen Miller Music, Paul does a production of
Debby from a Music box.
.
Card effect : A Quadruple coincidence effect. 2 decks, the spectator
selects one deck, shuffles it and selects a card. Paul does the same
with the other deck.
Both exchange decks, and take out their selection, then they cut the
deck.
Coincidence 1: Both have cut to the same number of cards.
Coincedence 2: Both have selected the same card.
Coincidence 3: Both have cut to the mate card of the selection.
Coincidence 4: The both bottom cards are the same.
.
Public effect: Topped with a Dick Tracy Hat, Paul does 3 prediction
effects, where he predicts a number on a piece of paper. 6 specta-
tors have written numbers 1 to 6, on a piece of paper. Each time
one piece of paper is selected and that selection matches a predic-
ion. This is repeated 2 more times with little variations.
.
Bullet catch effect is done in a comedy sketch. Not a lot of magic
performed but many comedy gags.
.
Guest: Salvano from Poland with his liquid act. Very good show by
Salvano, in elegance, style as you do not not see often anymore.
.
Final effect: In Russian setting Paul is a prisoner, and 3 escapes
and person transformations to Paul are done. Clever and nice
settings.
.
Best regards,
Arnaud
Msg #6661 Dated 23:49:30 02-08-91 -> 6684
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: ALL
Re: FARO SHUFFLE
>From : Arnaud Van.Rietschoten
To : All
Subj : Faro shuffle
--------------------------------------------------------------------
At the moment I am enjoying myself with the effect 'unshuffled' by
Paul Gertner.
This requires some perfect Faro shuffles to be done.
While torturing myself with this, I wondered about the origin of
this move. Who invented it??? (fred Faro...), and if not by Mr. Faro,
why is it called the Faro shuffle.
Which knowledgable MAGIC! member can help out of the terrible problem.
Arnaud
Msg #6662 Dated 23:51:40 02-08-91 -> 6674
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: NL
Pete,
.
Just a short note to tell you I have kept your previous file on
MAGIC-NL so you do not have to go to the complete questonnaire
again (have still the same questions......).
Once you have moved give me a short note with your new address
and telephone number, dick is also interested init.
.
Arnaud
.
P.S.
How did you like the first letter, and Dick's introduction?????
Msg #6663 Dated 23:56:04 02-08-91
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: ALL
Re: THUMBTIP....
>From : Arnoud Van Delden 2:1/1
To : All
Subj : Thumbtip
------------------------------------------------------------------
Just found out one of the drawbacks of written conversation;
things may escalate when you're not able to give direct guiding
response. Better to log on every day after asking feedback....
.
Anyway; thank you, Arnaud for the reply on my Dutch note.
Because our US amigo's may not follow this; I had better translate
the core of my note in english, because now you're asking
something completely different in my name, and actualy something
I already know the answer to: Ofcourse; there are a lot of magicians
wordwide using the thumbtip in Close-Up performances.
.
I do agree with you that it's better to let an effect be the
inspiration to your creative possesions than it is to pick a prop
from your cupboard and sit thinking what to do with it. To say
something like that amongst magicians seems like an open door to
me, although some people sure need the advice. I did found out
myself long ago. It's true it's a bad thing to think that thumb-
tips are only good for poking holes in handkerchiefs and vanishing
cigarettes, or to change money billets to other dominations.
Such thinking is similar to using stock patter for classic routines,
and doesn't display any inner creativeness.
.
The list of examples that show that there's a lot to be disco-
vered is endless. Geatan Bloom also pops into my mind..
Remember the thing he did at the last FISM? With both hands
wrapped in small transparent plastic bags, he vanished a (signed)
handkerchief from one hand and produced at the other hand (on the
other hand... Hahaha). Or how about Finn John's spongeball routine?
About the fingertip; Eugene Burger also prefers it and wrote some
useful things about it in some of his priceless books.
.
To return to the subject: What I was curious about is if there
are any people here using the Roger Klause bilswitch (or
a variation) in a surrounded or semi-surrounded Close-Up
situation. I was just curious to get some conversation about
this going because if think there are severe angle problems.
This may make the thing quite weak from a commercial point
of view, although at some tables (during your 'hopping') you
may have a miracle.
.
See ya! Arnoud van Delden....
Msg #6664 Dated 0:12:00 02-09-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: NEW FILES
Two new files have been placed in the MAGIC! files area:
BOOKLIST.TXT - Burt's new list of books for sale. This file
replaces BOOKSALE.TXT. Burt is donating 10%
of sales to MAGIC!
MSG1 - Steve Bryant's report on Invocational '90.
Very interesting!
Uh, yeah, before anyone comments on the way the files lists suddenly
look, er, uh, well, there is a slight bug in the MAGIC! system that
caused it. Everything is there, just in very strange order. We
already have programming working on it.
Msg #6665 Dated 0:18:53 02-09-91 6631 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CAP AND PENCE
Have you kept the copyright on it up to date? I mean, if you listed
all the guys who have done it since you created it in 1634 you could
probably make a fortune!
And if you get to this message tonite, yes, we are on simultaneously.
I'm actually logged on from a remote terminal at the moment.
Msg #6666 Dated 0:20:45 02-09-91 6615 <--> 6679
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PULLS
Thanks for mentioning pulls and for the suggestions you made. I've
never felt comfortable with them. Have a few, but don't really use
them. Maybe I'll dig 'em out and work on 'em a bit.
Msg #6667 Dated 0:21:48 02-09-91 6636 <--> 6687
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MUSIC COPYRIGHT
Ijust opened the first two book boxes and found Jarret, Golston
Lockedand a few others... I have the originals Conjurers Mnthlys, LLoyd
Jones used to OWN THE RIGHTS but after he died??????? He had several
full sets. I think hegave em tome.Man, am tired just hadtoomuch vodka
again.... gnite
Msg #6670 Dated 0:23:59 02-09-91 6648 <--> 6671
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SKULLS
Not sure. But temember one night at Abbotts (wherever that is) a guy
was selling real human skulls, hands, etc. out of the trunk of his car.
HONEST! I wanted to buy a LEFT hand and give it to Jay Marshall tellin
hm it was Lefty's Grandfather, but price was to high for a gag!
Msg #6671 Dated 0:25:23 02-09-91 6654 <--> 6685
From: PETE BIRO
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: SKULLS
Somehow I knew Dante would have an answer on this one!
Msg #6672 Dated 0:25:05 02-09-91 6620 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: HOFZINSER
I predict that Richard Hatch will appear in Los Angeles sometime in
April. Probably a couple of days after the ides of April.
Msg #6673 Dated 0:26:36 02-09-91 6621 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: NEW MEMBER
Thanks for keeping the word about MAGIC! alive and well at the Castle,
Marvin. Will look forward to the new member.
Msg #6674 Dated 0:26:49 02-09-91 6658 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: NL
I have quickly downloaded the messages from Koorn, but not read them
yet. It is late at night and I must get some sleep. I have finaly moved
all my thousands of books and props and am a wreck.
New mailing address: 16 Los Banos Ct., Walnut Creek, CA 94598.
Msg #6675 Dated 0:28:43 02-09-91 6660 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: PAUL DANIELS SHOW #4
If you can, I would like an address for Salvano. I have lost track of
how to reach him. Thanks.
Msg #6676 Dated 0:28:23 02-09-91 6623 <--> 6680
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MOVIN'
Sounds like you are starting on the good life, Pete. By the way, did
you know that there is NO Spam for the troops in the Gulf? First war
in generations without Spam. The stuff's got pork in it and the
Saudi's banned it on the sacred soil.
Anyway, with 153 cartons of books, videotapes, and magic stuff, who
needs food or sleep?
Msg #6677 Dated 0:30:08 02-09-91 6624 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CASTLE AWARDS
Haydn is pretty incredible. Does things very nicely. I had three
laypeople in the room and they spent the entire next day raving about
his act.
Msg #6679 Dated 0:31:49 02-09-91 6666 <--> 6689
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: PULLS
I had made up a pull for the vanishing birdcage and put it on
backwards. Son of a gun, if my sleeves didn't wind up INSIDE the cage.
Msg #6680 Dated 0:32:49 02-09-91 6676 <--> 6690
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MOVIN'
Spam spelled backwards is Maps. So they fooled the Saudis again.
Msg #6681 Dated 0:32:33 02-09-91 6628 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STEVE BRYANT (X)
Re: MELINDA
I have three cocktail napkins worth of notes on her new show. Just
haven't had time to get my act about her act together. Overall summary
is that it was very good and there were some truly superb parts of it.
I'm a fan of hers too.
Msg #6684 Dated 0:34:35 02-09-91 6661 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: FARO SHUFFLE
The Faro shuffle comes from the card game Faro (Pharoah in some
countries) The odds on the dealer winning are increased if PAIRS are
dealt. Somehow, I don't rally know why, but if the cards are Faro
Shuffled (weave shuffled) pairs can be put togeher with somekind of
stack. This is where the shuffle came from and got the name.
Most shufflers (magicians) hold the cards off the table and weave them
openly. Gamblers do it on the table making it look like a normal
shuffle. This is very difficult. I only knew of one that could to it
perfectly like that, and that was the late English card man Fred
robinson. There might have been others, as if one does it perfectly you
never know it!!! Will now exit and read what Koornwinder has sent.
Adios.\
Msg #6685 Dated 0:37:38 02-09-91 6648 <--> 6688
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SKULLS
I think there is an English outfit that does a good job with skulls.
Goes under the name of Burke and Hare. Don't have an address, but I
think you can get it from Abbots.
Msg #6687 Dated 1:24:43 02-09-91 6585 <-
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MUSIC COPYRIGHT
Hey Tabby,
Thanks for the info on the music copyrights. I am just tying
up some loose ends and that was one of them. When the subject
of copyrights came up, it reminded me to ask you about them.
Went to a nice lecture the other day. Boy were they shocked
when I walked in with twin VCR's and a portable Xerox machine
shouting " Hey, you guys got any books or videos I can
"Borrow" for a few minutes?".
But the boys really lit up when I started selling the whole
Joe Stevens line of videos, three to a tape on K-Mart quality
video.
Just kidding. But thanks again for the post. How much is it
gonna cost me to print your post up and show it to my wife?
Do ya take checks?
Msg #6688 Dated 1:26:14 02-09-91 6648 <--> 6695
From: MAX MAVEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SKULLS
Maxilla & Mandible, Ltd.
451-5 Columbus Avenue
New York, NY 10024
(212)-724-6173
fax: (212)-721-1073
Msg #6689 Dated 1:31:36 02-09-91 6679 <--> 6696
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: PULLS
I've heard of things like that happening to magi. One guy wound up
with his head in the birdcage. Similar things have happened with
ringflights - the ring ends up in the audience and the magi's left
eyebrow is neatly clipped to the keycase.
Msg #6690 Dated 1:33:43 02-09-91 6680 <--> 6697
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MOVIN'
And Sip spelled backwards is...? You know about the dyslexic agnostic
who said, "Was there a dog?"
Msg #6692 Dated 2:51:13 02-09-91 -> 6698
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MESSAGE PROBLEM
Due to a small problem, message 6669 was irretrievably lost. Evidence
is that it was a message from myself or from Pete Biro. It is likely
that it was a reply to something. So, if you asked either Pete or
myself a question in the last day or so and you never get an answer,
please try again.
Pete: If you have a capture of stuff, you might see if you can find
message 6669.
Sorry for the inconvenience.
Msg #6695 Dated 7:47:26 02-09-91 6688 <--> 6699
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SKULLS
Make sure you get one with clean teeth.
Whilst online, just thought I would pass on a household hint for the
newly moved. If you (like me) can't find that darn box marked "Kitchen
Stuff" you CAN eat breakfast cereal with a shoe horn.
Msg #6696 Dated 7:49:20 02-09-91 6689 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: PULLS
Jay Marshal does a line about a guy vanishing up his own sleeve and
hasn't been heard from since. I think he also gets his pull hooked to
his bicycle chain somehow.
You have just seen ONE reason I don't steal material. I can never
remember the stuff!
Msg #6697 Dated 7:50:34 02-09-91 6690 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MOVIN'
No but I heard aboutthe guy lost between the twin citiesk St. Paul and
Minneapolis and didn't know which way to go? Argggg.
Msg #6698 Dated 7:51:18 02-09-91 6692 <--> 6700
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MESSAGE PROBLEM
I can't remember my own material either, that's why I always do new
stuff. And to rmember a message from last night? Cheeeesh.
Msg #6699 Dated 10:24:27 02-09-91 6695 <--> 6725
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
Now we all know why Biro is such a great mage. He's got 153 boxes of
books, videos, and "magic stuff," and only ONE box labeled kitchen
equipment!
Actually, it doesn't sound too different than my place. I remember the
real estate agent telling us that there was a kitchen, but we've never
found it since.
Which has made me wonder - are there very few resturant magi in Los
Angeles? Or do we just eat in the wrong places?
Msg #6700 Dated 10:28:46 02-09-91 6698 <--> 6726
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MESSAGE PROBLEM
Well, if you are the guy who wrote it, at least you can be happy that
you got to read it.
What worries me is that I was the other possible guy and if I wrote it,
I'd done so within 10 minutes. Talk about short term memory. If I
have two audience members join me at the close-up table I have to write
their names down.
Msg #6701 Dated 11:37:01 02-09-91 -> 6704
From: JIM SISTI
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC GAME
I was hoping someone with EGA/VGA capabilities would d/l the mahjongg
game I sent up a few days ago. I designed the tiles myself with a
magic theme. Was just wondering what everyone thought of them. It
took me a long time to get Max's widow's peak just right...
Msg #6702 Dated 13:08:52 02-09-91 6603 <--> 6719
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: THE LUCKIEST...
Darrell Who??????
Msg #6703 Dated 13:15:13 02-09-91 6606 <--> 6720
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: I.B.M. MEETING
You missed A GREEEEEAT CLOSE-UP COMPETITION NIGHT!!!!!!!
Msg #6704 Dated 13:51:27 02-09-91 6701 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: MAGIC GAME
I'm working on restoring my VGA capabilities right now - a simple
procedure - I'm building a new 386/25. I want to see that Mahjongg
game!
Msg #6708 Dated 15:38:04 02-09-91 5818 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SHOW
T.A. - It looks like you somehow missed a message addressed to you
(#5818). You can read it by typing B for Back on the menu that
appears below this message.
Msg #6709 Dated 16:01:08 02-09-91
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: BAR ROOM BET
Here is a bar room bet that you might enjoy. It is not original with
me but I do it differently than the way I remember seeing it. You
start with a stack of coins- two half dollars and a dime. A tails up
half, and a heads up dime sandwiched in between the other tails up
half. Your victim or spectator is only aware of the two halves held in
your palm down right hand between the thumb and fingertips. There will
be a slight gap between the halves which you can cover with your
fingertips. You hold your left hand approximately 10 inches below the
coins and keep it SLIGHTLY cupped. If you have a ring on, so much the
better. You direct there attention to your left hand and say "watch".
By slightly releasing pressure from your right fingertips, allow the
bottom most half dollar to fall. It will do a half somersault onto
your left hand carrying the dime with it and both coins landing with
the dime now lowermost. Aim to land on or near your ring as sometimes
there is a slight clink. Quickly release the second half dollar to
land on top of them. What the spectator sees are two heads up half
dollars, one overlapping the other. Push the top one flush with the
bottom one and say "I'll bet you a (drink, $, your girlfriend) that the
bottom coin is heads up. Now they just saw that it was heads up so
they so "no". Say, "OK, I'll bet (drinks, $$, girlfriend and wife) the
bottom coin is TAILS up. Now your going to have to assure them that yu
(you) will not do anything funny to the coins, turn your hand over etc.
Just as the coins lay on your hand you are betting the bottom coin is
tails up. If they accept the wager you show the top coin as you know
is heads up, slide it or lift it off revealing the MIDDLE coin to also
be heads up, quickly lifting it away to show the BOTTOM coin is tails
up. I also call this "How to make a lot of money and lose a lot of
friends". Of course, much to the relief of my friends, I have never
tried to collect on my "winnings", this is strictly for amusement
purposes only! This takes some practice to get the rotation and height
down just right but it's worth it. Have fun with it!
Msg #6712 Dated 16:27:39 02-09-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC-13
The thirteenth set of MAGIC! messages - #6000 (Jan. 25, 1991) to
#6499 (Feb. 5, 1991) - has been transfered to a downloadable
file. The file is named MAGIC-13.TXT. This means that you can
now go to the file area, download this file, and read the
thirteenth 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-13.ZIP
and it is less than 1/2 the size of the full-text version.
This set of messages includes the fifth Kaps letter, a discussion
of performing for children, the announcement of the winner of the
first MAGIC! button contest and a great deal of magic news and
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 #6715 Dated 16:39:56 02-09-91 -> 6721
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Hi Burt...
Wanted to tell you how much I appreciate your efforts to
make MAGIC! self sustaining. I downloaded your book list and will
order books that I missed as needed. Hope you get orders for the
Conjurer's Monthly reprints. They should go fast all over the
world. I had already arranged to buy a set a month or so ago with
some fellows over here (to get a discount).
I can vouch for your mail service and followthrough and
hope you sell lots of books and can send MAGIC! much dollars. I
picked up FOCUS the hour it came out and Max was kind enough to
autograph my copy by mail. Everyone on here should have that
book. It's that good. His attention to usability is among the
best I've ever seen and the sleights index an excellent feature
and one I think more writers and publishers should adopt and he
doesn't weigh the reader down with a lot of unnecessary verbage.
I notice you're carrying The Vernon Chronicles. I have
vol 1,2,3 but am wondering when the next volume is coming out.
Have you heard anything? Also I see that L&L is doing The Ammar
Book. Do they have a publication date as of yet, or is Michael
taking advantage of four months in a cast to write it? That's one
book you can count me in on, for sure. Michael is tops. It's that
disarming smile and he gets you every time.
One of my groups, "Bone Pony" just called and they're
booked four nights at a Redondo Beach club mid May. Their
producer and I plan on cashing in some frequent flyer miles and
hanging out with the boys. They've got major label interest out
of Hollywood and it should be about time to do some serious
hanging out so if all goes well might see you at that time.
I've been playing drums the past two days in the studio
on a country project but since I played Hammond on it it's coming
out sounding more like Three Dog Night meets Waylon Jennings. My
hands are so sore I can hardly type. Like hammered steak.
Did Al Mann ever put out the book on slate work? I read
about it recently in a Pallbearer's Review dated eight years or
so ago. I want to make a great slate and want to read everything
thatz ever been written that I can get my hands on. Eugene Burger
gives some excellent references in SPIRIT THEATER.
Good talking to you. Catch you later.
tabman
Msg #6717 Dated 16:43:18 02-09-91 -> 6718
From: PATRICE MOORE
To: DAVID VANFRANKEN
Re: PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
David, I obviously didn't hear your name right on my answer machine -
hope you get this message!
You SHOULD be ok with your March tickets for Phantom. When I asked
at the box office before Christmas, they said Michael Crawford was
set to be there until the end of March.
Now, for my sob story...
I saw Michael Crawford as the Phantom over a year ago and really
enjoyed his performance. When we heard rumors he was returning to
the play, my friends immediately ordered tickets (this was December,
maybe November). My friends are such big fans they had me go
back to the box office to see if I could get them another set. But by
Christmas time, the box office didn't have orchestra until June. So
we passed. So we had our tickets for January 31st. My goofy friends
then decided they had run into a good deal. They bought through
the paper tickets for themselves for January 30th, fifth row center -
at $150 each! So between the three of us, over those two days, we've
invested $450 to see Michael Crawford...
Guess who catches the flu!!
For that ENTIRE week!
My friends were devastated! I was REALLY frustrated, thinking of all
the ways I would have rather spent my $50. Michael's stand-in had a
stand-in, two or three other significant members of the cast were
also out.
So... that's my story. You should be fine. Might want to send Crawford
some vitamins!
Glad you enjoy Inside Magic - it always pleases me hear that our work
is appreciated!
Msg #6718 Dated 16:58:27 02-09-91 6717 <--> 6810
From: PATRICE MOORE
To: DAVID VANFRANKEN
Re: PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
David, sometimes I REALLY don't understand this computer! I thought it
was telling me I didn't have your name right, but I guess I did - I'm
so confused sometimes!
Msg #6719 Dated 17:04:50 02-09-91 6702 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: THE LUCKIEST...
heh heh.
Msg #6720 Dated 17:11:48 02-09-91 6703 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: I.B.M. MEETING
Well....tell me more!
I don't just want to hear that I missed a "great" close-up competition!
What was so great about it? Who competed? Who won with what routines?
Glad to hear it was great, but let loose with some specifics, eh?
Msg #6721 Dated 17:47:52 02-09-91 6715 <--> 6728
From: MAX MAVEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
In the 1970's, following the Pallbearers material, Al Mann put out a
series of books on slate work -- four volumes. As usual with Al, the
material is a mixture of wildly varying quality, but there are some
very interesting ideas there.
Msg #6725 Dated 19:56:58 02-09-91 6699 <--> 6735
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
I came home this afternoon with NEW: VCR, WOK, RICE COOKER, POPCORN
MAKER, TV, BLENDER, A SPOON!!!! AND SOME FOOD.
Had really knocked myself out WOK-ing up some Lemon Chicken, it was
ready but I FORGOT to plug in the rice maker. Finally got all cooked
and discovered that I didn't have any place to sit and eat.
So I used the Army method. Standing around shoveling it in.
Msg #6726 Dated 19:59:06 02-09-91 6700 <--> 6736
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MESSAGE PROBLEM
I used to write their names on their coat lapels in soft chalk. When I
mc I write them on the floor with chalk. It's OK until a dance group
works wearing rubber soles.
Msg #6728 Dated 20:02:48 02-09-91 6715 <--> 6738
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
When in Redondo, its only a stone's throw to the Comedy/Magic club in
Hermosa. Lemme know and I'll set up comp for you.
Msg #6730 Dated 20:40:31 02-09-91 -> 6732
From: KEVIN MEADOR
To: ALL
Re: NEED HELP
I after just thinking about getting into an
illusion based show am now more than likely
going to start up an illusion show. However
I am in need of some help, I need to find
out what most ILLUSIONIST suggest when looking
for their assistant(s). Also where do you
costumes from, etc. I'm planning on getting
3 or 4 major illusions, new or used.
I have the following in mind, does anyone offer
any other suggestions?
Indian Basket, Twister, Geometric Tubes, and
Stretching a Girl (Cabinet type, not to be
confused with the Elastic Lady)
I really could use lots of imput here since
I'm new at the illusion business.
Thanks! Kevin
Msg #6731 Dated 23:33:27 02-09-91 6048 <--> 6733
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC/WAR
Thank you for clearing that up. I might bring that fact up at next
Wednesday's SAM meeting, so more of us can get our letters to our
friends in Saudi Arabia. --Scott
Msg #6732 Dated 23:37:50 02-09-91 6730 <--> 6843
From: PETE BIRO
To: KEVIN MEADOR (X)
Re: NEED HELP
Before you run out and buy TRICKS (big or small) -- Do you have a
concept? What kind of person are you going to be on stage? Hip? Olde
Style? Talk or Silent? Do you have enough money to go to a professional
choreographer? Is there a top dancing school you have access to? Do you
have any idea of where you will work? Big stages, small, surrounded?
Where do you live? Have you access to a fashion conslultant? Musical
director?
It ain't easy (unless you just want to be average)! Keep us posted.
Msg #6733 Dated 23:40:18 02-09-91 6731 <--> 6741
From: PETE BIRO
To: SCOTT CRAM
Re: MAGIC/WAR
Are there any upcoming Magic Club meetings in San
Francisco/Oakland/Walnut Creek area?
Msg #6735 Dated 0:45:23 02-10-91 6725 <--> 6742
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
No imagination, Biro. You could have stacked the rice cooker on the
VCR, the blender on the rice cooker, the wok on the blender and made a
chair.
Actually, the lemon chicken sounds pretty good. I had pepperoni,
sausage, anchovie, onion pizza at a resturant. I think it is called
sleight of stomach.
Msg #6736 Dated 0:47:44 02-10-91 6726 <--> 6746
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MESSAGE PROBLEM
E-gads! The man has invented the toe-nail writer!
Msg #6738 Dated 0:52:21 02-10-91 6728 <--> 6747
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
So Biro will comp you into the Comedy/Magic Club, huh? Tabman - if you
are in town I will personally comp you into the Magic Castle!
Msg #6741 Dated 0:57:21 02-10-91 6731 <--> 6802
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: SCOTT CRAM
Re: MAGIC/WAR
Please remember, and bring up at magic meetings, that we are eager to
get the names and addresses of magi serving in the Gulf. If listed on
MAGIC! they will be published both here and in Inside Magic so that
folks can send them some support. I'd like to see everyone join in on
this.
Msg #6742 Dated 1:30:30 02-10-91 6685 <--> 6744
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
I believe Messrs. Burke and Hare can be reached through a Dr. Knox in
Edinburgh...
Msg #6743 Dated 7:30:10 02-10-91 -> 6748
From: SKIP SANSOUCIE
To: ALL
Re: HELLO
Hi I`m new to the board and wanted to say Hi I`m a semi-pro close-up
magician . My love is coins so if theres some coin workers out there
I`d like to hear from you. I have been a magician for about 8 years now
and work the bars in CT. I`m also the the line drawing for the
MAGIC\MENU.
Type at you later.
Skip....
Msg #6744 Dated 7:55:17 02-10-91 6735 <--> 6745
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
Where I really blew it was there was enough for TWO and I didn't have
anybody nearby to call to join in.
Msg #6745 Dated 7:55:51 02-10-91 6742 <--> 6750
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SKULLS
Burke and Hare sounds too much like Marks and Spencer. (If you know who
the latter are this is really funny. If not go to next message).
Msg #6746 Dated 7:56:27 02-10-91 6736 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MESSAGE PROBLEM
Sleight of foot and big enuf lead so it can be read (BY ME).
Msg #6747 Dated 7:57:20 02-10-91 6738 <--> 6764
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Comp does not mean FREE. It means (gee I can't think of a punchline).
Better make some real coffee.
Msg #6748 Dated 7:58:31 02-10-91 6743 <--> 6756
From: PETE BIRO
To: SKIP SANSOUCIE (X)
Re: HELLO
Welcome. If you like coins, check the Video review coming in a few
mnutes on Dave Williamson Video. If you haven't seen it get it. Best
handling ideas I HAVE SEEN since David Roth.
Msg #6749 Dated 7:59:20 02-10-91 -> 6752
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: VIDEO REVIEWS
Still unpackin' )) to those of you with patience... this story
will continue for years... Discovered one thing. While doing
something as this, requiring little skill, I can have the VCR
going and studio the vast collection of instructional videotapes
that I have. I must review these. Hey, why not... good Idea for an
informative, fun, series. Last night I watched Billy McComb demonstrate
his sure)fire,
simplified way of doing things. I have for longer than he knows,
done the 1/2)dyed silk. He put it in print some time back and
even markets the effect. However!!!! Before this, there was a
different version in Rice's Encyclopedia of Silk Magic, by Loyd
Enochs, wherein you stop during a color changing silk routine
(the thru the hand version) and show the silk "partially dyed"
with one third of the silk red with two thirds white (or yellow
in my case). When McComb's version came out )) it was a comlete
routine,
a wonderful combination of the Sucker Silk with the Enochs
climax. McComb's version has been in my act from the moment it went
into print. Matter of fact McComb had LOST his props and I gave
him a couple of sets of the properly dyed 1/2 red 1/2 white
silks. I had found the very silks in a silk shop in Tokyo. I
don't know what THEY used them for (probably some kind of
maratime signal)? But I bought a dozen! Additionally on McCombs Video
was the BEST handling I have
ever seen for the linking finger rings. Attributed to Richard
Himber, and erronenously called the Himber Ring )) the actual
inventor of the prop is Persi, who, as a youth worked for Himber.
The original rings were manfactured by Willy Schneider, a N.Y.
jeweler friend of Persi and Himber. FYI, Diaconis is a math prof.
at Harvard (formerly Stanford) and one of the finest, most
knowledgable card men on this planet. He lived with Dai Vernon
for years and was instrumental in the creation of the Malini Egg
bag with Charlie Miller and Harry Riser (another story for
another day). The next tape was "Sleight of Dave" (Dave Williamson).
This
tape is one of the most entertaining I have ever seen. He has
funny commercials between effects )) one of the greatest opening
introductions you can immagine )) but yet )) as FUNNY as David
is, he is the MOST instructional I have ever seen on HOW TO DO A
PASS. The psychology, the WHY you transfer something from one
hand to another to make it vanish. How to do several passes ))
that are SO CONVINCING and NATURAL you will not believe it. Watch the
tape through first to enjoyh it for the Laffs.
Rocky Racoon will put you on the floor with tears running down
your leg. Then use this tape as the STANDARD to learn how to make
coins and small balls (cups and balls) vanish! I mean Vanish ))
AND APPEAR. His way of showing and telling is the finest example
of good teaching I have ever seen. His explanation of using the wand is
great. This is much the
same theory of Roy Benson when he vanished the balls for his bowl
routine (many credit the bowl to Don Alan, as he was the one that\j
Maven or Busby can probably tell us where Benson first put
it in print (I am guessing Hugards Monthly in the 30s). Two great
tapes, and while unpacking this session I FOUND
THE BOX MARKED **KITCHEN STUFF** Adios. (Oh, Williamson produced HIS
tape, Joe Stevens did
the McComb video). Goodbye again.
NOTE: I see a couple of funny line breaks in the above, but it is
all intact. Bye bye. Enjoy. Oh, just thought of somehting.
When the waitress (or anybody) says, "Have a nice day" REPLY IS:
"Thanks, but I HAVE OTHER PLANS!"
sg #6750 Dated 11:32:43 02-10-91 6654 <--> 6753
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: SKULLS
I bought a lot of stuff from Edmund Scientific when I was
a kid and am not surprised to hear they have the stuff. Just sent
away for their catalog after looking up the address in Popular
Science. Thanks.
How are things at The Genii? Any chance for a Max Maven
or Eugene Burger issue? How about a MAGIC! issue?
Msg #6751 Dated 11:54:41 02-10-91 -> 6772
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MOVING
I heard from the grapevine that when you started unpacking, you spent
nearly six hours unpacking nested Bekins boxes!!!
Msg #6752 Dated 12:09:04 02-10-91 6749 <--> 6759
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEO REVIEWS
Thanks for the video review. On your recommendation I will be
purchasing the "Sleight of Dave" video. I didn't catch the name of the
Billy McComb video or its availability. I'm looking forward to any
other reviews you come out with in the future. Thanks again!
Msg #6753 Dated 12:16:29 02-10-91 6742 <--> 6754
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SKULLS
Ah! I'd heard that they'd moved so that they would be closer to
Abbotts.
Msg #6754 Dated 12:17:38 02-10-91 6744 <--> 6755
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
Don't worry, Pete. Once the women in the neighborhood discover your
wok, you'll have plenty of company.
Msg #6755 Dated 12:18:32 02-10-91 6745 <--> 6767
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
Spend a lot of time at Fortnum and Mason, Pete?
Msg #6756 Dated 12:19:14 02-10-91 6743 <--> 7071
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: SKIP SANSOUCIE (X)
Re: HELLO
Welcome to MAGIC!, Skip. As I was reading your message I saw the part
about working bars in CT and was immediately going to refer you to Jim
Sisti. Then I read the next line - I guess you already know him.
My open question of a couple of messages ago has still gone unansered.
I don't seen to run into many resturant magicians in L.A. It could be
that I just go to the wrong resturants. But is there a geographic
difference in the popularity of resturant work? Is it more common in
the northeast?
Msg #6759 Dated 14:31:45 02-10-91 6749 <--> 6773
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEO REVIEWS
The Roy Benson Bowl Routine first appeared somewhat later than you
think -- it wasn't until the late 1940's, in the Phoenix. (This is off
the top of my head, so I don't know the issue offhand.)
Msg #6760 Dated 14:34:25 02-10-91 -> 6775
From: MAX MAVEN
To: ALL
Re: MORTALITY
Two more well known magicians have passed away: Tommy Tucker, early
last week, and Heba Haba Al this weekend. No further details at
present.
Msg #6763 Dated 15:24:21 02-10-91
From: GREGO WILMOTH
To: ALL
Re: DO YOU KNOW?
Is Martin registered on this board?
Msg #6764 Dated 19:45:02 02-10-91 6721 <--> 6776
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Yes, the year (after I figured out the Roman Numerals)
was 1975. It seems the book(s) I'm referring to is Mann's
"Master Slate Secrets" which I just found a reference to in fall
1990 "Seance" mag in an article by Jim Magus. I put a call in to
Charlie to see if he knew anything about it. Do you have any info
as to publisher, etc?
That photo of Burger with his Owen (!) slates got me
going. Must be those handmade mahogany frames. Are you familiar
with the Dorbin slate?
Msg #6766 Dated 19:46:07 02-10-91 -> 6777
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: FORKS
Was gonna fedex a knife and fork out to you til I read you found a box
of kitchen stuff.
Msg #6767 Dated 21:09:48 02-10-91 6750 <--> 6768
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SKULLS
Look for a Eugene Burger issue in the near future.
Msg #6768 Dated 21:19:05 02-10-91 6750 <--> 6769
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SKULLS
Skulls. I got a bunch of them out of a cabinet I just opened. Only
trouble they are RAT skulls.
And RAT Feces/Wee Wee (cleaned that up).
They may have ruined about a dozen videos of OLD shows... GRRRRR...
And chewed up about 40 copies of ABRA (less of a loss)... but the
smell. I don't know what to do with the tapes. Maybe air them out for
two years. Arrrrrggggg.
Msg #6769 Dated 21:20:49 02-10-91 6753 <--> 6770
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
I understand NO ONE has been able to find Abbotts -- hence all thier
employees now supply the skulls. EEEEGGGG
Msg #6770 Dated 21:21:33 02-10-91 6754 <--> 6771
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
I want to write a cook book, entitles WOK THIS WAY.
Msg #6771 Dated 21:21:59 02-10-91 6755 <--> 6778
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
Yep, and if you don't order a Nickerbocker Surprise -- YOU haven't been
to Fortnum and Masons. I set my clock by theirs too.
Msg #6772 Dated 21:22:47 02-10-91 6751 <--> 6808
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: MOVING
Yep, and in the small box at the finish was a spoon so I could finally
quit eating with the shoe horn.
Msg #6773 Dated 21:23:22 02-10-91 6752 <--> 6774
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: VIDEO REVIEWS
The McComb Video is a Joe Stevens issue.
Note, Nex| Runday on CBS starts the series "Best of Ed Sullivan" and I
am sure soon we will see the Beatles show with Fred Kaps.
Did you know the inaugural Sullivan show had a dance act on it and I
once dated the daughter of that act? She married the Dr. on Love Boat
and is now woth Millions in L.A. real estate.
Msg #6774 Dated 21:25:01 02-10-91 6759 <--> 6786
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEO REVIEWS
Thanks Maven-san. How ya doin?
Msg #6775 Dated 21:25:32 02-10-91 6760 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: MORTALITY
Two classic guys. Nobody, nobody was stronger behind the Bar than Heba
Haba Al -- and I wonder if the younger magi know Tucker invented the
Six Card repeat? Thanks for the info, tho sad, Max....
Msg #6776 Dated 21:26:53 02-10-91 6764 <--> 6785
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Isn't it Dobrin? Tabbo... I have some wild slates here if I can ever
find them... Got your Mail... Gracias... YOU WERE FIRST!!!
Msg #6777 Dated 21:27:36 02-10-91 6766 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FORKS
Actually, today I put a fork in my back pocket, forgot about it and sat
on it. No Punch Line, tired again... er, I found a set of my Lecture
notes that I said I would mail toyou. Now all I got to do is find a
pencil and an Enveloppie (Seabrooke pronunciation).
Msg #6778 Dated 23:09:12 02-10-91 6753 <--> 6779
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
And someday -- if you're good -- I will tell you the story of Herman
Mudgett, alias H.H. Holmes...
Msg #6779 Dated 23:14:23 02-10-91 6745 <--> 6780
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
Of course I know who Marks & Spencer are -- they sell apparatus that
has to work -- otherwise the buyers get sued...
Msg #6780 Dated 23:49:44 02-10-91 6769 <--> 6781
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
Heard they were a bunch of NUMB-skulls anyway. You know, all this talk
about rats and skulls is making me hungry.
Msg #6781 Dated 23:50:57 02-10-91 6770 <--> 6782
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
ARRRRRGGGGGHHHHH! In the 12 years you have been a member of MAGIC!,
that is the WORST pun you have ever done -- sure wish I'd thought of it
first.
Msg #6782 Dated 23:53:38 02-10-91 6771 <--> 6783
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
Speaking of which, rumor has it that Sir Terry Seabrooke will be in
town around February 18th.
Msg #6783 Dated 23:55:04 02-10-91 6778 <--> 6793
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SKULLS
Would it help if I told you that I used to know Leslie Charteris?
Msg #6784 Dated 1:32:14 02-11-91 -> 6796
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: MAHJONGG
Alright, Jim. Thanks to you it is 1:25 a.m. and I have portions of a
386/25 spread all over the floor. BUT the 1025 x 768 16-color .28 dot
pitch VGA monitor is working (unlike the 90 Meg. hard drive) and THE
MAHJONGG TILES LOOK TERRIFIC!
Max Maven, the Magic Castle, Genii, AND, YES, the MAGIC! BBS are all
represented.
Took me a while to figure out that I had to change tile sets, using F3,
but it works!
(Aside to others - Jim's file is MAHJONGG.ZIP in the files area. I
don't play mahjongg, so I don't know what the program does, but the
magic tiles are great).
Now, how am I ever gonna get the whole system together? (Don't worry,
I didn't connect it to MAGIC!).
Msg #6785 Dated 3:17:39 02-11-91 6764 <--> 6797
From: MAX MAVEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Al Mann publishes his own books. There's a slew of them. They tend to
be poorly written, cheaply produced and expensively priced.The four
slate books are among his better offerings.
Sorry, I don't have his current address at hand, but it shouldn't be
too hard to track down. I know that Micky Hades handles some of the
Mann books; perhaps he has the slate stuff, if it's still in print.
In answer to your second question, it's "Dobrin" -- and yes, I'm
familiar with it. A fascinating idea, which seems to be relatively
little known.
Msg #6786 Dated 3:24:02 02-11-91 6774 <--> 6790
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEO REVIEWS
Tired. This past week was hectic. Flew to Chicago on Monday, went to
see Lance Burton do a club date at a hotel that night, spent Tuesday
with Eugene et al, then did a club date of my own Wednesday night. Up
at dawn on Thursday to return to L.A., 80-minute show at the Comedy
Store that night. Up at dawn again Friday to do an hour and a half
radio stint on KROQ, another C.S. performance that night. Saturday
mid-day another radio thing for KLAC (LA's top C&W station, so they
probably play Tabby's product), then another C.S. show that night.
...Thanks for asking.
Msg #6787 Dated 3:28:01 02-11-91 -> 6835
From: MAX MAVEN
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: TILES
I downloaded the game program last night. Actually, I already had the
Mahjongg program, but it's certainly more fun (and more flattering)
with your tile set. By the way, although there are several versions of
this tile solitaire game floating around in software form, it is not
really Mahjongg, although the distribution of tiles is the same.
Msg #6788 Dated 6:00:47 02-11-91
From: RICK RUHL
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PHONE CALL
Thanks for the call voice last night, and the info. It was nice to talk
to you after typing to you so long.
Guess I better get to work, so much to do, so little time..
Rick
Msg #6789 Dated 6:01:37 02-11-91 -> 6799
From: RICK RUHL
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DISH STUFF
Hope you don't go through a
'dish withdrawl'. I know if I had to go back to cable, I'd end up
screaming and yelling.
Rikker
Msg #6790 Dated 6:54:00 02-11-91 6786 <--> 6798
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEO REVIEWS
Gee, and all I've been doing is sitting here and pondering your
questions about life, the Universe, and magic. No report yet - still
pondering.
Msg #6791 Dated 6:53:50 02-11-91 -> 6792
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: SPOON BENDERS
Catch Geraldo today if you can. he's got spoon bending, firewalking,
needles through the arm, and a guy who levitates?? Fairly interesting,
was fun.
Msg #6792 Dated 6:55:57 02-11-91 6791 <--> 6800
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SPOON BENDERS
Thanks for the Geraldo tip, Tabman. Will try to ask one of the VCR's
to watch it for me.
Msg #6793 Dated 7:44:16 02-11-91 6779 <--> 6794
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SKULLS
And the Magic Words Ken Brooke used to use...
I also think he had a packet trick with two rabbits named Marks and
Spencer.
Msg #6794 Dated 7:45:11 02-11-91 6780 <--> 6795
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
Not if you looked into THIS CABINET!!!!!!!!!
Msg #6795 Dated 7:45:55 02-11-91 6782 <--> 6801
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
When was Seagoone Knighted?
Do you know who the character Neddy Seagoone is? (From the Goon Show)
Msg #6796 Dated 7:47:15 02-11-91 6784 <--> 6804
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MAHJONGG
My uncle once had all the components of a high-voltage spread about the
floor connected with Aligator Clips _- too see if it would work. It
did, so when he started to disconnect the clips... there still was
probably 10,000 Volts in something. He found himself laying in a far
corner of the room, a lamp knocked over and a "piereced" thumb!
Msg #6797 Dated 7:49:09 02-11-91 6785 <--> 6874
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Yeah, thot it Was Dobrin. Is that the slate with the flap that slides
out and back in onto the opposite surface? I think I have a couple of
them. Also I have the one Ken Brooke marketed that transfers a drawing
in a "different" color chalk from one side to the other? A cloth flap
that moves. I haven't seen it yet, here, but SOME DAY.
Msg #6798 Dated 7:51:06 02-11-91 6786 <--> 6805
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEO REVIEWS
Take the rest of the day off.
Msg #6799 Dated 7:51:52 02-11-91 6789 <--> 6811
From: PETE BIRO
To: RICK RUHL (X)
Re: DISH STUFF
Right now (cable co. screw up) I am limited to a 1.5-inch Sony Watchman
PPPthat barely works!!! I think the war is still on, right?
Msg #6800 Dated 7:53:01 02-11-91 6792 <--> 6815
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB
Re: SPOON BENDERS
Tab... what's new abou those effects. Any all night restaurant on
Hollywood Blvd., WILL HAVE THE SAME CONTENT!!!
Msg #6801 Dated 8:50:11 02-11-91 6794 <--> 6803
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
Go get G. Gordon Liddy - he's supposed to be pretty good with rats. I
take it that the thing looks even worse than the Cabinet of Dr.
Caligari?
Msg #6802 Dated 8:46:41 02-11-91 6731 <--> 6818
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: SCOTT CRAM
Re: MAGIC/WAR
If you havc a modem and suscribe to CompuServe you can send Electronic
Mail to Serviceman in the Gulf FOR FREE!!!
The message is sent by CompuServe to Saudia and is printed out
in Saudia and mailed to the serviceman.
Msg #6803 Dated 8:51:13 02-11-91 6795 <--> 6812
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
You know, I wondered myself when Seabrooke was knighted. But the
literature read "Sir Terry Seabrooke." Perhaps I should have put the
"Sir" in quotes? Maybe it's an honorary knighthood?
'Fraid I don't know Neddy Seagoone.
Msg #6804 Dated 8:55:45 02-11-91 6796 <--> 6819
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAHJONGG
Fortunately, most computer components are low voltage - so if you make
a mistake you can only blow out a $1,000 device and not your own
brains.
As a kid I did a "magic" act that included shocking the audience.
Placed tinfoil on the arms of a couch and told all the kids to hold
hands and the end ones to hold onto the arms of the couch. Then used
a reversed speaker transformer to pump a couple of thousand volts (at
VERY LOW amperage) through 'em. Nowadays I guess their parents would
have sued my parents. Also used to get a lot of milage out of
capacitors (probably what did the deed in your uncle's case). Would
charge 'em up and tie 'em to stuff like doorknobs.
Now you know why my parents appreciated it when I moved on to card
tricks.
Msg #6805 Dated 9:01:31 02-11-91 6786 <--> 6814
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEO REVIEWS
I see your point as I got the "Dorbin" spelling from Al
Mann. Shouldn't be too hard to track down. His articles in
Pallbearer's were informative and got my interest up and for that
I am grateful, however much of the real work, I'm convinced,
probably goes unpublished (or very limited at the least).
KLAC played some of our records a few years ago, don't
know about these days though. Is Kathy Hahn still the music
director over there? They broke my first record on the west coast
and really helped us out. I was with Urban Cowboy Band during
heyday and got to know a coupla radio folks out there cause we
were in and out of H'wood a lot at the Palamino Club. Becky
Blaney and Gigi Richard (Smith) joined me there for the Urban
Cowboy premier party with Sean Connery, John Travolta, Scott
Glenn, Lou Rawls, and probably others. A country boy gone wild
with the Hollywood pig farmers. That's what those guys told me
anyway.
Can you post notice next time you're gonna be on radio
out there? Can maybe get Nelson to record it for me if he's not
on location.
I was enthralled with Dunninger on tv as kid and know he
cut his broadcast teeth on radio. I produced a weekly half hour
satellite show for public radio a few years back featuring Capt.
Jerry (with voice modulated) and his Way Way Back Machine where
we would turn the dial and "send" him back to crutial points in
history where he would get trampled by horses, almost run over by
stage coaches, etc. Creating the "visual" with sound effects
(which we manufactured), vocal inflection, etc was the most
exciting part of the mostly musical broadcast.
Keep up the good work!
tabman
sg #6808 Dated 12:31:30 02-11-91 6772 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MOVING
Yessirree....and I heard that the spoon was signed and wrapped in a
sheet of directions to your cornflakes!
Msg #6810 Dated 13:31:08 02-11-91 6718 <-
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: PATRICE MOORE (X)
Re: PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
It almost had my name right (a common mistake).
Thanks for the info on the Phantom. The friend that called you was
deathly afraid he spent 300 dollars NOT to see Michael, so you can see
his concern. Type you later, David
Msg #6811 Dated 14:03:29 02-11-91 6799 <-
From: RICK RUHL
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DISH STUFF
Oh goodness, just wait until you wnat to see the feeds on G6..eheh.
BTW, I THINK this weekend is the Ed Sullivan wekend, Ill let you know
for sure soon.
Msg #6812 Dated 15:19:27 02-11-91 6770 <--> 6816
From: MARVIN STERN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
If I could wok this way, I wouldn't need the talcum powder.
Msg #6813 Dated 15:21:04 02-11-91 -> 6825
From: MARVIN STERN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: BOARD
Couldn't believe that amount of messages entered between Fri PM and Mon
AM. Will have to start downloading these and reading them at home.
Takes too much time at the office. Although I can get away with it,
the boss is never around. At least my wife says she's the boss.
I trust you are through with the SKUll and rat thing.
Msg #6814 Dated 16:08:49 02-11-91 6773 <--> 6820
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEO REVIEWS
I also heard about the best of Ed Sullivan being shown but I wonder if
it will be various clips from over the years or entire shows? If they
are just showing clips then there is not much chance of seeing Fred
Kaps performance. Was it a really memorable show he did?
No, I don't think it is common knowledge that you dated someone who
appeared on the first Sullivan show, married the Love Boat Dr. and is
now worth millions in real estate. But if she is a name dropper I'm
sure she brags that she once dated you!
Msg #6815 Dated 16:21:41 02-11-91 6800 <--> 6821
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SPOON BENDERS
I didn't get to see the Geraldo special but I was wondering about it.
I have heard of Uri Geller and how he was supposed to be able to bend
spoons etc. and I also heard that James Randi debunked it as nothing
paranormal whatsoever. Does anyone know if Geller could do anything he
claimed he could? I think a past issue of Genii had a picture of
Geller and Lance Burton together. It said Geller could do some hard
core card tricks or sleight of hand. So unless someone knows otherwise
I guess Geller is just a clever magician and not what he claims to be.
Any comments?
Msg #6816 Dated 17:14:22 02-11-91 6801 <--> 6817
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
Isn'st Caligari like Squid? I know it tastes like Chicken.
Msg #6817 Dated 17:15:00 02-11-91 6812 <--> 6824
From: PETE BIRO
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: SKULLS
Most people don't understand that joke. The kids don't get it. One of
my all time favorite lines!
Msg #6818 Dated 17:15:36 02-11-91 6802 <--> 6877
From: PETE BIRO
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC/WAR
How to we access? I know how to access CIS, but how to or what forum?
Msg #6819 Dated 17:16:20 02-11-91 6804 <--> 6822
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MAHJONGG
The late Mickey Thompson's dad had a wooden leg. Kids would be over
playing and the old "my dad is tougher than your dad would ensue" soooo
Mickey would say watch This! And poke an Ice Pick into his dad's leg
thru the trousers... His dad would be reading the paper, thus not see
what was going on (but he was rehearsed) and say, "Mickey, would you
quit that, you know it stings a little!" Needless the say the other
kids would be out the door like rocket ships!
Joe Stevens has a wooden (looking -- maybe it is wooden) chair that you
use for a routine whre the spectator jumps up from a shock. The comics
"cue" the spec, but this chair hits 'em with some voltage. Don't know
a lot about it, but would love to have one.
Did you read the article a while back in Genii about the exploding
suitcases? I used to use one on a show I was in. Greatest bit of all
time. Will explain later. Bye for now.
Oh, this is first time log on with the main computer. Got four phonej
cords strung together through hall and into kitchen. Got to go to RS
and buy one long cord and put it ujp along the ceiling molding. Heheh.
Msg #6820 Dated 17:21:24 02-11-91 6814 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: VIDEO REVIEWS
yeah!
Msg #6821 Dated 17:22:34 02-11-91 6815 <--> 6863
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: SPOON BENDERS
Yes Stan. I have seen Geller. I have friends in the U.S. Fed. Govt.
undercover Paranormal checkers (If someone can really read minds, we
(the U.S. Govt.) want them NOT THE RUSSIANS) (That WAS the old line)...
anyway my friend, as well as Prof. Ray Hyman, have all checked out old
Urine Geller and he is a BRILLIANT con Magician. When he fails it is
sometimes even better, evoking emotions and feelings to him from "so
called" believers.
When I saw him bend keys he was using several "opportunistic" methods,
all in print.
The famous Stanford Research Institute (which IS NOT affiliated with
the University) (they like you to think they are) was so bluffed it was
unbelievable. They had built a solid metal sealed no way in our out
without the one door, room to put him in for the tests. But didn't tell
anybody that the room WAS NOT FINISHED when he was in it AND THERE WAS
A LARGE OPENING FOR A VENT that was just OPEN, so his Pal Shepi could
slip info to him!!!!
Scientists have always been the easiest guys to fool.
They have no belief that yoiu would LIE to them, or do they know that
misdirection exists!
Msg #6822 Dated 18:08:41 02-11-91 6819 <--> 6826
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAHJONGG
The chair Joe Stevens sells is manufactured by Mephisto Huis in
Belgium. It produces a _very_ unpleasant shock, and I can't imagine why
any performer would actually use this; it's going to be the centerpiece
of a court case some day.
Msg #6824 Dated 18:24:15 02-11-91 6816 <--> 6829
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
Yes, Caligari is a potent Italian beverage made from squid. Long
praised for its presumed health benefits. Hence the joy in receiving
a "Cabinet of Dr. Caligari."
Msg #6825 Dated 18:26:02 02-11-91 6813 <--> 6864
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: BOARD
Yes, MAGIC! has been cookin' of late. But the messages have tended to
drift away from the basic theme a bit. I mean, after all, how many
people do effects with squid?
Msg #6826 Dated 18:29:01 02-11-91 6819 <--> 6827
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAHJONGG
I don't recall the exploding suitcase. I must have read it more than
15 minutes ago.
Would like to read your explaination though.
Msg #6827 Dated 18:57:09 02-11-91 6822 <--> 6828
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: MAHJONGG
That's what I figure. I have a stupid looking chair put out by someone
in England (actually it looks more like a small square stool) that has
legs that fall off as you move it, somewhat like the "legs table". And
the patter(?) that came with it suggested using the "cue" method of
electric chair as well. Hmmmmmm
Oh, just got 2 U-Matic tapes from David B. Are these the "unedited" Vod
2000? No note enclosed. Later... Oh, just got "Man Whow Was Erdnase" --
whew, what a load of work!!!!!
Msg #6828 Dated 18:59:45 02-11-91 6826 <--> 6839
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: MAHJONGG
Briefly. Small briefcase has in it a Ford Coil, Battery and the old CAR
BOMB. (In metal container with large vent holes in end of case). It had
a "safety switch" -- I would bring two suitcases onstage and set one by
each spectator that Arthur Bull (FRANCISCO MIDNIGHT SPOOK SHOW) had on
stage. He told them to go to a case, open it and put on whatever
clothingthey found inside. Well, there were stupid flowery dresses and
funny ladies hats inside.Maybe panties, I forget... BUT ONE CASE HAD
THE BOMB RIGGED WITH A SWITCH ACTIVATED WHEN THE CASE WAS PICKED UP.
The audiences went berzerk. It was a dumb, but at the time, VERY
COMERCIAL routine.
The winner would get a "drink" -- and we used the old RAT Bottle with
unsweetened Cool Aid.... great stuff and done today in contemporary
style would KILL.
Msg #6829 Dated 19:03:17 02-11-91 6824 <--> 6840
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
A Cabinet. Whew, that's 144 Six Pack. A Gross.
Msg #6830 Dated 19:03:51 02-11-91
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: OH YOU SQUID!
Just finished SKIMMING through "The Man Whoe Was ERDNASE" published by
Jeff Busby. A killer book. 434 PAGES!!!! Holy Cow. I don't know
howJeff comes up with so much information. He notes, and comments are
incredible. A real piece of HISTORY -- I don't know if it is true or
not, and I don't think it is false... but that isn't important... the
volumnuis amount of work the comments, info. on Vernon, Ross,
Dicaconis, Jay Marshall, all those mentioned, with dates and places
really IS A HISTORY OF THE VERNON PERIOD OF CARD MAGIC AS WELL.
I wish I had ordered a dozen of the "Limited, autographed,
leather-bound editions" -- they will soon be collector's pieces.
Hat's off to you Jeff!!!!
Msg #6832 Dated 20:39:44 02-11-91 6099 <-
From: KEN HENSLEY
To: PATRICE MOORE (X)
Re: RUSSELYF LEWIS
Devino performed the entire run, half was his old standard show, but
the last week he did a new act with a levitation in it.. Liked his old
act better
Msg #6833 Dated 20:39:55 02-11-91 -> 6841
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: GERALDO DEBUNKED
Don't know if you were able to tape the Geraldo show or
not. I should of taken names etc off the tube (didn't tape it,
but watched with my mouth hanging wide) but basically here tis:
The spoon bender was the wildest. Using "soft spot" or
hidden strength to get a bunch of folks to bend spoons, she had
built a pseudo religion out of the kitchen spoon using "white
light" to give the benders power.
A yogi from Chicago crawled into a box and proceeded to
bounce around the floor ("levitation??"). Then he did the same
jerking motion without the box. Oh, well!
Geraldo did walk the coals which the leader stated were
about 1200 degrees F but a crewman stuck a digital thermometer
into the glow and came out around 165 (still pretty hot). A woman
who claimed to be experienced coal walker from audience appeared
to have burned her feet as she was jumping around from foot to
foot after her walk. Geraldo offered to let her go backstage to
stand in a tub of cold water. She declined grimacingly.
The guy (wish I'd caught his name) with the needle
through his hand looked authentic (through the fatty part between
thumb and first finger) was hoping somebody else caught it and
would comment. He said he used the exercise to control pain and
otherwise gain control over his body (life).
They had a scientist on who attested to have seen the
yogi actually levitate (not in the box) and a debunker who
debunked (no name here again so I guess I'm fired).
I'm still trying to call about Gen. Schwarzkoff's
interest in magic. Still busy. Still watching the news and still
waiting.
Look forward to seeing you on any coast. Almost ready to
auction off the Berg/Bamberg piece. Trying to match up an Okito
green for the mat...tabman
Msg #6834 Dated 20:57:58 02-11-91 6646 <-
From: KEN HENSLEY
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: OKITO BOOK
Sorry Tabby, I've been verry busy and have not had time to sit and
write.. Yes the book arrived as promised and was everything I
expected.. Hope to stay more current with the board but running the
shop and performing have me running constantly..
ken
Msg #6835 Dated 21:24:24 02-11-91 6787 <--> 6854
From: JIM SISTI
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: TILES
You're right. The Nels Anderson "Mah Jongg" is really just a solitaire
puzzle game with similarities to the actual game in the "dragon" layout
of the tiles and the oriental look of the original set. I was actually
a bit apprehensive about your tile...I thought you might be offended.
I'm glad you weren't because it was really meant as a compliment. It
took me several weeks to design the tiles...just something to do at the
end of the day. I don't paint or draw...but I figured this was the
next best thing. Thanks for the kind words. How was Eugene when you
were in Chicago? I just received a post card from him the other day
which reminded me that I must get in touch with him soon.
Msg #6836 Dated 21:31:54 02-11-91 -> 6866
From: JIM SISTI
To: TA WATERS
Re: HEBA HABA AL
If possible, could you (or Pete Biro or Max Maven)) supply some bio information
on
Heba Haba Al? As many of the pioneers in the bar/restaurant magic
field (Don Alan, J.C. Wagner, Mullica, etc.) cite him as being a big
influence on them, I would like to run a piece about him in "The Magic
Menu." There was no listing in "The Encyclopedia of Magic & Magicians"
so I thought you guys could help. Thanks!
Msg #6839 Dated 22:45:37 02-11-91 6828 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAHJONGG
Hmmmm..... Don't know, Pete. I think you'd definitely need the right
person/character to do it. The younger set doesn't know what hard
sided luggage looks like - they either use sports sacs or in the case
of one young computer programer I knew, he would take all his stuff,
jeans, books, computer hard disks, you name it and throw it in a
trashbag. He would then haul the trashbag to the airline counter and
stuff it into one of their cardboard boxes. "Unpacking" consisted of
upending the thing onto the other bed in the motel room.
Also, I don't know if exploding suitcases are exactly in vogue these
days. Then again, it seems that even travelling isn't in vogue.
Outside of that, you are right, it is a great sight gag.
Msg #6840 Dated 22:49:41 02-11-91 6829 <--> 6852
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKULLS
Now you are doing straighman? OK - Here goes: YEP, IT SURE IS GROSS!
Msg #6841 Dated 22:50:29 02-11-91 6833 <--> 6853
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: GERALDO DEBUNKED
I think I've got it on tape! At least I ran in and saw the last two
minutes and the VCR was running. Will now try to get a chance to watch
it and gather the names. Personally, I think Geraldo has all the
brains of a piece of dry toast. But this did look like a show to catch
and I thank you very much for the instant alert.
Msg #6843 Dated 22:57:46 02-11-91 6730 <--> 6867
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: KEVIN MEADOR (X)
Re: NEED HELP
Hey Kevin,
Listen to what Pete has to say. I wish I could get back
all the wasted time that I spent looking for the perfect
tricks. The key is in the performance, not the trick.
I can give you some words of advice though, based on my own
personal experience. If you are going to be working in a
variety of situations where your control is limited, stick
with material that is angle proof, wind proof and does not
require special lighting. If not, you might find venues
difficult to locate.
I establish a set of criteria when it comes to selecting
material for my act. For instance in my act I work only with
ordinary ( by appearance) objects such as newspapers, ropes,
and of course wine, wine bottles and glasses. I have
permanently abandoned all boxes, tubes and other things that
look "tricky" in nature. You may find it helpful to establish
your own personal set of standards in this respect.
And never forget the single most important element to success
in this field ; Hair styling mousse, and lots of it. I tried
some before a show the other day and I'll be damned if my
star is not on the rise as a result.
Steve Kucera.
"the Wine Country Wizard"
Msg #6844 Dated 0:43:29 02-12-91 -> 6868
From: ANTHONY BLAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BEST OF..
Biroman...
I think the "Best of Ed Sullivan" show will be a one time only
shot. It looks to me from the promos and from preview screenings
(gained from watching satellite feeds) that this will be a
compilation of all the Sullivan shows with pieces from the best.
It looks like the show will have things such as appearances by
Senor Wences, Topo Gigio, The Beatles, etc...
Wonder if they'll have a Jackie Mason piece...ie: the finger...
As always.........
THE GEEKMAN!
Msg #6845 Dated 0:44:10 02-12-91 -> 6908
From: ANTHONY BLAKE
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SLATES...
Yo Taboo...
Thought I'd just let you know that I am a proud possesor of a
set of original Thayer Dr. Q slates. I bought them a few years
back at a Castle swapmeet from Paul Green. It included the
original instruction sheets and all...
Oh, and I also have a an original first edition copy of Greater
Magic which I bought from Eugene Burger a few years ago...
THE GEEKMAN!
Msg #6846 Dated 0:44:46 02-12-91
From: ANTHONY BLAKE
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: BENDER SCHMENDER....
Saw the Geraldo show today...I've decided to become a
levitating, spoonbending, body pierced magi that breaks bricks
with his bare hands and firewalks as a hobby...
By the way, tried to levitate myself like the yogi did on the
show...did much better that he did, actually got 15 ft. off the
ground...but now I have a bad case of hemorrhoids...
As always, the one, the only,
THE GEEKMAN!
Msg #6847 Dated 0:45:28 02-12-91 -> 6848
From: ANTHONY BLAKE
To: ALL
Re: BORED...
Boy am I glad for Magic!...before I logged on I was slowly being
entranced by Pia Zadora in "The Lonely Lady" !!!!!!
THE GEEKMAN!
Msg #6848 Dated 0:56:26 02-12-91 6847 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ANTHONY BLAKE (X)
Re: BORED...
We'll place that tribute in our hall of memorabilia, Geek.
Msg #6852 Dated 1:13:59 02-12-91 6783 <--> 6857
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SKULLS
And did Mr. Yin drive a Hirondel?
Msg #6853 Dated 1:23:06 02-12-91 6833 <--> 6858
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: GERALDO DEBUNKED
The supposed debunker on Geraldo was Ford Kross, a member of the
Psychic Entertainer's Association.
Msg #6854 Dated 3:25:53 02-12-91 6835 <-
From: MAX MAVEN
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: TILES
Eugene is just fine, keeping busy with shows. He just finished the
final chapter on his new book, which will be released soon.
Msg #6855 Dated 9:31:39 02-12-91 -> 6859
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Jim Sisti's admission that he too is computer conversant
just brings home again the fact successful magi since the dawn of
history have understood, embraced and utilized the latest
technologies available to them. I suspect that many of the older
magi (my age and up, I'm 45) were among the first in the general
population to buy and learn to use personal computers.
How many TRS-80s are sitting in magic closets out there?
Early on I saw magic ads for ZX80 stuff (first really el cheapo
from Timex). I'll bet someone is on this system using a C-64.
Taking up room around here are C-64, TI, Sanyo SBX, Roland, TSR,
Watson (early telephone voice digitizer), etc. Among the first
stuff to come up to the MAGIC! files area were effects using the
computer as foil which I had some fun with out in the studio
control room.
As I read messages from the screen, each contributor
takes on a different aura, as if the personality of the sender
somehow comes down the wire into my cubbyhole in the cold east
wing. Thoughts do have wings. I laugh out loud heartily as if the
teller of some absurd story were sitting before me in the
shadows. I contemplate each thought (some longer than others) and
look forward to each exchange. I see the mahogany walls, the
contributors seated in their leather chairs contemplating things
magical and the ready punch lines from people who aren't
apprehensive of frivolity nor laughter.
The lives and thoughts of magicians are the magic. We all
know that the real magic isn't in the trixs but in the trixter. I
want to see you as you are and know what you are doing. The lives
of the magicians are significant. Do we hunger more for Robert-
Houdin's tricks or the life of the man? Do we exhault the
transparent card more than the inventor?
I want to be allowed see Biro in his kitchen table typing
madly at his laptop, cooking in his wok, and eating with his only
spoon. I understand a person who would unpack Jarrett and eschew
locating the box with mere kitchen appartus. When Gloria is away,
I rarely cook or even take the time heat my food. I'd rather work
or read (not that I don't relish any good homecooked meal). I
know my friend is having a blast unpacking his magic. I spent
days unpacking boxes just a year ago of magic stuff I had stored
in a studio basement in Nashville for five years and lost track
of the world for days (years?? decades??).
Do we have a "mad" scientist who could run a comparative
analysis on DNA of great, near great, not so near great, and
other magicians to find the common ground on which we all stand?
Magicians have some excellent characteristics generally and some
of the best minds on the planet choose to spend their time both
individually and collectively pursuing the secrets and
presentation of conjuring. What could be accomplished should
these minds resolve to take on any cause?
Just spent the morning cutting birch ply preparing to
build a new close up table for a friend who's original was stolen
backstage (of all places) at the Magic Castle. It is irreplaceable
as the builder (his friend) has since passed on. Frustrated today
cuz the ply is warped and hence not usable. Frustrated because
while I seek the unobtainable, the world generally is satisfied
with mediocrity in the marketplace. It was the best piece I could
find.
Thanks for letting me bend your eye. I just had an idea
using a more space aged material that should by its' very nature
prove to be "perfectly" flat (like the world). Thanks.
Your friend,
tabman
Msg #6856 Dated 9:34:07 02-12-91 -> 6860
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: MEN WHO SHAVE
Don't ever interrupt me again!! (just kidding!!!)..
Msg #6857 Dated 9:47:32 02-12-91 6852 <--> 6873
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SKULLS
You know your stuff, Mr. T. A. I always thought that the most
interesting thing was his I.D. bracelet - no name, just the "logo."
Guess that it would work all over the World.
Msg #6858 Dated 9:48:55 02-12-91 6853 <--> 6865
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: GERALDO DEBUNKED
Who attempted to be entertaining even when he didn't know what he was
talking about... Yelling "Bend," according to Mr. Kross, creates a 7
Hz. sound wave which magnetically/electronically (I forget which he
said) causes the metal of the spoon to melt. Yeah, sure. 7 Hz., not
6 or 8 or nuthin' like that.
Msg #6859 Dated 9:55:11 02-12-91 6855 <--> 6869
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Ah, Tabman, we can always depend on you to make the day profound. I
read your stuff and thoughts start to fly. You make vivid mind
pictures.
>From the sublime to the rediculous -- yep, here in Techy Heaven we have
a Sinclair WITH add-on memory (I'm tempted to tell you we run MAGIC! on
it, but we don't). Got one before Timex put their stamp on it. Always
have loved the line in the manual that goes something like this: "For
your computer to operate properly it will require a monitor. Actually,
it will operate properly without a monitor, you just won't be able to
see what it is doing." Somehow I never got a TI-64, but I think most
everything else is represented here (oops, come to think on it, we
never got the original TRS either - but we are storing up stuff for a
museum of technology if someone wants to send us one). Got a couple of
other Radio Shacks, including a few variants on the CoCo. Also have an
Honeywell 6-33 and a Xerox 820.
As to chairs, I like the idea of the leather in a book filled library.
Alas, when working at the master console (yeah, I have one hardwired
straight into MAGIC!) I'm currently sitting on a closed portable
overhead projector.
But there is something that is always after me. A thought that I
ponder and ponder. Somehow, somewhere, there must be a simple,
Einsteinian "breakthrough" that will come. Here's the pieces. There
is a thread of magic that runs all through humanity. From the origins
that go as far back as the begining of humans. Along the way, there
have been offshoots from magic - science and medicine, just to name
two. And then we get to today and Max's magic as a performing art
concept. Where does it all fit? What are the things that are within
us that make us want magic? Where does it go from here? I don't know,
but I keep trying to see it. Here, sitting on my portable projector.
Msg #6860 Dated 10:08:18 02-12-91 6856 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MEN WHO SHAVE
You just wait! Some dark night you will be sitting in that leather
chair, working intently at your end of MAGIC!, and a glow will begin to
form... the glow of the sysop interrupting you.
Msg #6861 Dated 12:29:47 02-12-91 -> 6870
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN
Re: D MODAL THEORY
The answer is simple yet usually just out of grasp across
the hidden valley in the dusky veil on the other side. It is
those perchance glances through the shadows that we watch for
while waiting for the end of a long awakening. Much of the world
has forgotten the real power of magic. They sleep while we ponder
at our keys trying to remember lest we forget once again and
slink, broken back into the darkness.
For many years I've been aware that much of nature
vibrates in a polytonal modal musical chord based on notes D and
A vibrating simultaneously while man in disharmony bases his
electrical energy on 60Hz. You can tune a guitar in open D modal
by listening to crickets chirp or songbirds sing. This is the
major reason loud rock is so big as it (with guitar) drowns out
nature with its' 60 cycle buzz. It is the music of the city which
churns at 60 cycles.
An astronomer (magician?) from UMass (I used to teach a
continuing ed course there in mid 70s) in confidence showed me
the formula for 1/f noise which sometimes comes in from space on
the radio telescope. Skywatchers when listening to 1/f noise for
prolonged periods of time experienced a feeling of "peace" or
contentment. I found that it is an algorithm of the D modal or
1/5. Most rock music is based on E modal which produces an
emotional "dischord" and must be listened to loudly to create the
desired effect which is to override the discord created by a 60
cycle civilization. My music following that disclosure was based
on the D modal and its' relationship to the rest of the Western
scale which is based on the number 2. Shortly after that night I
left UMass and played my way into the top band in country music
at that time. Close your eyes and imagine you see a white 7khz
light. Picture if you will a magician playing the part of a
musician. It worked. The subtle use of a little known scientific
principal.
I suspect 1/f noise is in use today behind the scenes.
When I first learned of it, it was being whispered. I felt the
power of the thought and immediately saw the potential. As I
experimented night after night on the lonely bandstands of New
England the way became clear and this is my first disclosure of
these facts which have become part of my way of life.
The injudicious use of 1/f noise could theoretically
induce a false sense of security in entire groups of people
through listening to television and radio. I advise discretion
in and am against the indiscriminate use of any mass media.
Remember sublims are legal only if they knock the competition.
Negativity kills.
I've sed enuf, you get the picture and I'm outa here.
Msg #6862 Dated 14:00:11 02-12-91
From: MARVIN STERN
To: ALL
Re: ED SULLIVAN
Time magazine - - "With Carol Burnett as host and fond reminiscences by
Alan King, Carol Lawrence, Joan Rivers and others, this visual
anthology features many highlights that have not been seen since they
were first broadcast."
No mention of others , but did say it should be:
A r-r-really big shew.
Msg #6863 Dated 17:22:11 02-12-91 6821 <--> 6871
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SPOON BENDERS
That's why a team of magicians and not scientists should be checking
out peoples claims and performances of paranormal activities. It's
just like all of those thousands of people who were fooled by mediums
until Houdini came along and blew the horn on their methods. Still, to
this day it amazes me to see all of these Madam so-and-so's doing a
thriving business. Back in P.T. Barnums time he reckoned a sucker was
born every minute. With the population explosion since then we
apparently have them born every second!
Msg #6864 Dated 17:28:15 02-12-91 6825 <--> 6887
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: BOARD
I entered the message about the bar room bet which is sort of a magical
effect although it is more of a gag. Was it an old worn out effect or
what, I didn't get any comments on it? I always get a laugh out of it
and I have never found anyone who had seen it before. As a matter of
fact I did it twice today! One of my friends asked when I went from
being a magician to being a con artist. (She bet me $100 but as always
I let them off the hook!)
Msg #6865 Dated 17:57:31 02-12-91 6841 <--> 6888
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: GERALDO DEBUNKED
Friend of mine phoned from Akron this AM. Said the local morning men on
the radio had been on trip to L.A. and saw a show at the Magic Castle
and described the act as 50-ish and Faggy-ish and was TERRIBLE and then
they went on and knocked magic -- having not seen much else. My friend
didn't rememberthename of the performer they saw. Just as well, I
probably would have ut it on line!
Msg #6866 Dated 18:00:08 02-12-91 6836 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: HEBA HABA AL
Phone Jay Marshall in Chicago 312 EDI BULL. He knows all about Heba.
Msg #6867 Dated 18:01:52 02-12-91 6843 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: STEVE KUCERA (X)
Re: NEED HELP
One other format for an act I have used is "Packs Flat"....
Msg #6868 Dated 18:02:30 02-12-91 6844 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: ANTHONY BLAKE (X)
Re: BEST OF..
I don't know, all I know is the person that produced the Ricky Jay
special bought the rights to ALL THE SULLIVAN shows and I was told
itmightbe a series. HOpe so.
Msg #6869 Dated 18:05:38 02-12-91 6855 <--> 6872
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
That was one of the best Bass Solos in moons.... YO!
Msg #6870 Dated 18:07:14 02-12-91 6861 <--> 6884
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: D MODAL THEORY
Will you guys knock of this kind of writing!!! I know I went to the
Evelyn Wood School of 2400 baud reading, but....
Msg #6871 Dated 18:08:25 02-12-91 6863 <--> 6886
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: SPOON BENDERS
I always wanted to start Franchise Palmistry Studios. You know,
sellthem theneon sign,the tea, the cards, wardrobeand a cadillac
parkedout side. (sometheing is wrong withmy space bar). Bye
Msg #6872 Dated 18:41:30 02-12-91 6869 <--> 6878
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
I guess this means that violin players have smaller heads.
Msg #6873 Dated 19:19:09 02-12-91 6812 <-
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: SKULLS
Maybe you should try some ointment.......
Msg #6874 Dated 19:20:06 02-12-91 6715 <-
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Sorry Tabby, no news about upcoming books. I usually buy from a
distributor and am not notified about new releases until they have them
in stock.
What kind of group is Bone Pony? Another Thrash band? Is that a type
of music you enjoy or have you been attracted to it/ It attraced to you
because of business contacts.?
Hope the hands don't stay sore too long. I enjoy yer typin'
Msg #6877 Dated 20:24:27 02-12-91 6818 <--> 6924
From: RYAN WILSON
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC/WAR
=|
Msg #6878 Dated 21:14:32 02-12-91 6872 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
OK, I WILL NOW MAKE YOU SICK!!! Guess what I unpacked tonight? My
Martin Rising Card deck, Martin Vanishing Birdcage, my "pair" of Himber
Rings, the Wallet Fred Kaps gave me (still have not found the Ivory
Skull--gaffed for Skull-O-Cation Fred gave me) the Kaps Coins and...
the Himber Passe Bottles (with the 3rd bottle) and... and... the
"signed" Cardini-custom made wristwatch reel!!!!
But, but... the Piece du Risistance was the very, very old, Pre printed
envelope from Abbott's -- with the address, 'er Non Address???? on it.
I will Mail this to Lichtman for verification... Better yet, tomorrow
will scan it to a PCX file so anybody can see it. You will not believe
this envelope... But, upon seeing it you will understand the confusion
regarding their address!!! this morsel of paper, I will frame!!!
Msg #6881 Dated 21:41:59 02-12-91
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: ABBOTT'S REAL ADDRESS
Ok, gang... here for those of you to see is a PCX file (in the F>iles
area) called: ABBOTTS.PCX
It is an ACTUAL scanned image from an Abbott's Order envelope I found
in some olde stuff tonight!!! Yo!
Msg #6884 Dated 23:11:51 02-12-91 6861 <--> 6885
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: D MODAL THEORY
Tabman - there was more in your first paragraph than a quick reader
would see. You described it to a "T" (for Tabman?).
As to the rest, yup, that 60 Hz. is ubiquitous. Have often thought on
it. In reading about the 1/f I was going to comment on precisely what
you did comment on in the last two paragraphs.
Scary, ain't it?
Msg #6885 Dated 23:16:32 02-12-91 6870 <--> 6907
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: D MODAL THEORY
Hey, Pete! Max and Tabman and I are working on a unified field theory
of magic. Seriously. Max said that not a lot had been done, and here
we are with some of magic's brightest and best, so it's natural we are
going to get into the real stuff from time to time.
But I do admit that it is time for a good, solid effect or two to
appear on these screens. I've got an idea I'm working on and hope to
post soon, but others are welcome too. Let's get some good useful
creative effects up!
Msg #6886 Dated 23:20:29 02-12-91 6871 <--> 6896
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SPOON BENDERS
You could name it McPalmals.
Msg #6887 Dated 23:21:41 02-12-91 6864 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: BOARD
I thought it was good! I was waiting to see what others would say!
Hmmm... maybe they were too?
Msg #6888 Dated 23:22:43 02-12-91 6865 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: GERALDO DEBUNKED
Gee, I was in Akron a couple of days ago and heard a local morning man
on the radio. He was flat and stupid. Figured that was how he got
such a great job in such a top rank town.
Msg #6893 Dated 0:38:19 02-13-91 -> 6926
From: ANTHONY BLAKE
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: MAHJONGG...
Jim...YOU HAVE RUINED MY LIFE!!!!!!!
Ever since I downloaded the Mahjongg game down I have not been able to
stop playing it. Except for fleeting moments frozen in time used to
call MAGIC!, I have virtually been glued to the CRT! I guess I'm now
doomed to Computer Ga Addiction...I will never perform again...never
work a deck of cards...never watch TV...never enjoy the company of
women....never.........HELP!!!!!!
Pretty soon you'll see this pathetic creature stand in front of a group
of pastey faced people, wearing thick coke-bottle glasses, greasy hair
and blank expressions...he'll look out to the group and say:
"Hi, I'm Tony....and I'm a computer game addict..."
Well, back to the game....
The one, the only,
THE GEEKMAN!
Msg #6894 Dated 1:01:19 02-13-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: NEW FILES
Here's some new stuff to keep you busy.....
Letters from Biro to Kaps...
BIRO#2 - A letter from Pete Biro to Fred Kaps, 1970
BIRO#3 - A letter from Pete Biro to Fred Kaps, 1971
New catalog
HOWIE-3 - A "mini-catalog" from Howie Schwarzman. Wait 'til
Steve Kucera sees this one! He's gonna be saving
up his money.
New pictures
WIZ.PCX - A nice full color picture of a wizard uploaded by
David VanVranken (Thanks, Dave!).
ABBOTTS.PCX - Perhaps the ultimate Abbott's address file! Pete
Biro found an old, old Abbott's return address
envelope and SCANNED IT to prove how easy it is to
find your Colon. (Note to Marvin Stern: Better
learn how to view graphics files! And just when you
thought it was safe to make jokes about Abbotts!).
All of the above are available in the MAGIC! files area. And you
thought there was nothing to do!
Msg #6895 Dated 1:22:10 02-13-91 -> 6909
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: CASTLE WHISPERS!
What Magus performed a bill switch at the Magic Castle Tuesday night
and unknowingly GAVE AWAY a ONE HUNDRED DOLLAR BILL???!!!
After this nameless Magus was later questioned by a concerned Magus
who had been in the audience, the performing (and freshly poorer) Magus
embarked on a "missing person treasure hunt" throughout the Castle,
until finally finding the newly flush audience member having dinner in
the dining room! Fortunately, the masticating spectator was a good
enough sport to return the C-Note!
Msg #6896 Dated 2:38:30 02-13-91 6863 <-
From: T A WATERS
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: SPOON BENDERS
Of course it should be noted that Houdini was not above a bit of fraud
himself, as when he tried to frame Margery and got caught at it.
Msg #6898 Dated 3:03:48 02-13-91 -> 6911
From: MAX MAVEN
To: ALL
Re: ECCENTRIC
Avner the Eccentric's one-man show opened tonight (Tuesday) at the
Westwood Playhouse. He will be there for several weeks. This is truly
a brilliant performer, and well worth your attention.
Msg #6900 Dated 5:53:18 02-13-91 -> 6930
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: AL MANN
The Al Mann stuff is pretty much as Max described. Some of it is
really good, all of it is expensive. The last address I have for him
is P.O. Box 144, Freehold, NJ 07728, (201) 431-2429.
Charlie
Msg #6901 Dated 5:53:58 02-13-91 -> 6915
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: ALL
Re: CAP AND PENCE
As per an earlier message, the following is the text for the Cap and
Pence from Hocus Pocus Junior. I've tried to enter it exactly as it
appears in the book, thus the unusual spelling, etc.
How to make a pile of Counters seem to vanish thorow a Table
You must have for the performing of this feat divers Counters, having
holes cut out of the midst of them, then they must be glued together so
many of them as they may make a cast sufficient to contain a Die: then
glue one whole Counter upon the top of them, and have a box made of
white Tin to fit them, but let it be deeper than the glued pile of
counters, and make a cover for this box. First put into the box three
loose counters, then put in the glued pile of counters with the hole
uppermost, then put into the hole a Die, and lastly three other loose
counters, and say, Gentlemen here is a box of Barbary gold, left me as
a legacy by a deceased friend, upon condition I should employ it well
& honestly. Now Sirs, it was my fortune as I was traveling, to be
benighted, and so forced to seek for lodging, and as it happened, I
took into a house of entertainment, where calling for my Hostess, I
drew my flock, and said, what must I give you my Hostess, for my meat,
drink, and lodging this night? My friend quoth she, you must give me
three French Crowns; with that I uncovered my box and set it upon the
Table (it must be done with the mouth of the box downward) took my box
from off the Counters, and deliverd her three from the top, saying
there they are; and casting my eye aside, I spyed a pretty lasse coming
down the stairs; Sweet-heart, said I to her, what shall I give thee to
lye with thee this night? She replyed, Sir, for three French Crowns
you shall: then I thrust my box forward, and deliver her three from the
bottom, saying, there they are. But now said I to my Hostess, Hostess,
what will you say, if with a trick I have, I make these six Crowns to
fetch all the rest thorow the Table? Sir, quoth my Hostess, you shall
have your meat, drink, and lodging for nothing, & said the lass, thou
shalt lie with me for nothing: then I uncovered them, saying, but first
let me see whether they be here or no, and shew them, covering them
again. Then (taking to those six counters in my hand, other loose
Counters I have ready in my lap) I knocked my hand under the Table,
saying, Virtue lapidis miraculofi lapidis, Fubeo vade, celeritate vade.
Then I mingle my Counters, as if they came tumbling thorow the Table,
saying, there be the Counters, then I take the box up, pressing the
sides of it with my fore-finger and thumb (which will keep the glued
pile of Counters from slipping out) and let slip the glued Counters
into my lap, and say there is none but a Die casting the empty box unto
them, who shall have all now, my Hostess or I?
Charlie
Msg #6902 Dated 5:55:01 02-13-91
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: MAGIC MENU
Jim, $25 check is in the mail. Thanks.
Charlie
Msg #6903 Dated 5:56:42 02-13-91 -> 6906
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: MICHAEL OVERLY (X)
Re: IBIDEM
What's your address?
Charlie
Msg #6904 Dated 5:57:11 02-13-91
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: ALL
Re: TOMMY MARTIN
I'm sorry to report that Tommy Martin died Monday, Feb. 11th here in
Houston. He was a great magician and person.
Charlie
Msg #6905 Dated 7:15:31 02-13-91 -> 6912
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: CIG THRU QUARTER REVISITE
Just a bit of business for those who regularly perform
the cig through quarter (half). Borrow a quarter from a
spectator. Borrow a filter cig from another spectator and while
he/she are getting cig switch borrowed quarter for the gimmik.
Hold the gimmik in one hand between the thumb and 2nd finger palm
up, fingers extended. Place the index finger beneath the gimmik
pressing "up" against the gimmik holding it closed.
Here is the convincer. Tap the cigarette against the
quarter as in a "packing" action several times. This tapping will
give the effect that the quarter is solid especially if you don't
tell them what's going to happen.
I would get the spectators to get in close above the coin
and invite someone to "blow" on the coin while I hold the cig at
tobacco end and twist (like building a fire by twisting a stick
caveman style) while speaking of the "softspot" which can
sometimes be found in certain US coins.
Anyway, you know the rest of the routine. The borrowing
of quarter and cig give you the opportunity to switch in and out.
I would switch the gimmik back out while returning the cig to its
owner. During routine after getting the gimmik into play I would
keep the real quarter fingerpalmed with 2/3 in hand holding
cigarette.
At one time when I was with the same group of people on
the road all the time I kept two extra gimmiks in my compadres'
pockets and would actually "borrow" the gimmiked coin.
Oh, well. Still a great bit of work and there are still
lotz of laypersons who haven't seen it yet.
Msg #6906 Dated 8:39:08 02-13-91 6903 <-
From: MICHAEL OVERLY
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: IBIDEM
Glad to hear from you. My address is 461 Laurinda Avenue, Long Beach
California 90803. I would really appreciate your help in getting a
copy of the articles in this issue. Thanks again.
Msg #6907 Dated 8:52:23 02-13-91 6885 <--> 6917
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: D MODAL THEORY
OK, here's one. Not an effect, but a bit of biz. If you do the Egg Bag,
lightly stitch onto it a UNION LABEL. Then when showing the bag, sind
the song they do in the commercial... "Look for the Union Label" and
when you find it, have spectator hold it, pull bag and it rips off.
You read it and say, 'DO NOT REMOVE THIS TAG UNDER PENALTY OF LAW'....
Msg #6908 Dated 8:53:20 02-13-91 6845 <--> 6913
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ANTHONY BLAKE (X)
Re: SLATES...
Yo Tony...
Thayer Dr. Q Slates have been described as the Pierce
Arrow of all slate effects. I've been watching the lists of
used/rare stuff for years and have yet to have seen a set as you
describe. Would enjoy having a set around for awhile.
Why would Burger part with a first ed Greater Magic? I
guess it's as he sez in The Experience of Close Up Magic that
good books are to be shared. Man, I've gotta get another break
soon soz I can come out to the swap meets, etc and load up on
this stuff.
I'm hoping Biro adopts me so I'll inherit his Jarrett
book and the Cardini autographed wrist reel (assuming the good
die young I stand a chance).
This old mansion I live in would make an excellent spot
for a great "spook" show. Too bad we can't move the whole house
to Tennessee but the wife (me too) is tired of ffreezing in the
winter time and having no friends around (except for MAGIC!).
She's an "X" international athelete and just wants to stay home
these daze. My turn to start traveling again is coming up. We've
taken turns for the past few with me staying close to the fire.
Can you believe the spoon benders?
tabman
sg #6909 Dated 8:55:32 02-13-91 6895 <--> 6922
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: CASTLE WHISPERS!
Johnny Thompson and I were working a trade show once and took a break
to have lunch together. After about 45 minutes we went back to our
booths (to John's first actually) and right there on his close up pad
was at least FIVE ONE HUNDRED DOLLAR BILLS! He had finished the trick
he uses them in and went to lunch LEAVING THEM ON HIS PAD.
What an honest crowd. Thousands milling around a trade show and nobody
stole his dough!!!
Msg #6911 Dated 8:59:00 02-13-91 6898 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: ECCENTRIC
I am flying to San Diego but won't have time to see Avner (I don't
think) anyway, Maven, if you see him give him my regards.
Msg #6912 Dated 9:00:53 02-13-91 6905 <--> 6916
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CIG THRU QUARTER REVISITE
Now all I gotta do is find the quarter. Haven't been able to find the
wind up keys for the Martin card rise decks. Grrrrrr.
I have come up with a subtle handling for the Himber Ring based on
McComb's routine but eleminated a move with a nice Bluff. Will write
offline soon and load in.
Msg #6913 Dated 9:02:37 02-13-91 6908 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SLATES...
Who said I'm good? I know I'm not young.
You reminded me. When U. Geller was on TV in Norway, Finn Jon came on
later and the host said "Can you bend spoons?" To which Finn replied,
"Why should I do something so simple when I can THIS...." And the
spoon got up and walked across the table!
If you know Finn and his ability to string threads you understand. I
hve gone to lunch with him and watched him string aobut 3 threads "just
in case" an opportunity to do something came up!
Msg #6914 Dated 9:19:03 02-13-91 -> 6918
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: HIMBER MOVES
Himber Ring touches. Rather than a swizzle stick (ala McComb) I
have long used a New wooden pencil with rubber eraser on end --
and have experimented with a trailing thread (more on this
later). Might look for a swizzle and try it out, though.
If you have a "good size" jeweler's loupe you can load the
switched out (borrowed) ring into it like a cups and ball load.
This helps to conceal it in certain conditions. If the ring is
small enough you can set it on the table with the ring under it.
Rather than palm the "extra" ring, while the three rings are
on the stick -- you can "rock" the stick allowing the rings to
drop from one end to the other, while linked secretly, audience
can't tell if they are or are not linked...and you can let the
fourth ring go with them... just a touch to show hands empty,
etc. You don't hold stick with a fist -- but at your fingertips
doing this. A lot of the handlings depend on distance from
viewing spectators, etc.
I particularly think the McComb bit of showing the middle
spectator the "shank" only of the Himber Ring and his accomanying
patter IS SHEER GENIUS. Can't divulge here or you won't buy the
video from Joe.
Trailing Thread. This is an item I devised years ago and had
only given to Fred Kaps. It will show up in one of the letters.
If you take a new wooden pencil, the standard Yellow kind, with
eraser and using a razor blade make a cut in the middle of the
eraser from it's flat end down to the hilt (the metal rim). The
cut is straight in, parallel to the long dimension of the pencil.
OK, now you get a fine piece of invisible thread or hair and
put a knot on one end. Then you thread it through the slit with
the knot keeping it from slipping out. The length need only be a
bit longer than the pencil.
With a little experimenting you will figure out how to best
get into this IN YOUR OWN NATURAL HANDLING WAY, but the routine
is thus: You have unlinked ONE of the rings (actually they are
all unlinked) but you pretent only one is free.
You now tell the audience that two remain linked and you
slide the two rings onto the pencil getting the trailing thread
through one ring so you now have one ring ON the pencil, near the
end, the other hanging below APPARENTLY still linked -- but it is
the thread holding the ring.
The dramatic finish. You relax your grip on the thread and
the "hanging" ring VISIBLY unlinks itself and drops into your
waiting hand.
You will not believe how beautiful and magical this looks!
Adios.....
Msg #6915 Dated 9:19:32 02-13-91 6901 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: CAP AND PENCE
That's great, Charlie! Thanks for posting it. Now, if I can just
memorize the Latin, I can do the effect...
Msg #6916 Dated 9:23:26 02-13-91 6905 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CIG THRU QUARTER REVISITE
Thanks for the suggestions on Cig thru Quarter, Tabman! I've had the
gimmick around for a long time and haven't used it much. Your
suggestions for handling are quick, clean, and simple. Now where did
I leave that thing?...
Msg #6917 Dated 9:25:56 02-13-91 6907 <--> 6935
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: D MODAL THEORY
And, if you make the tag out of flash fabric...
Msg #6918 Dated 9:30:06 02-13-91 6914 <--> 6923
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
Now THAT is pretty spectacular, Pete! The beauty of it is mind
boggling!
Msg #6920 Dated 9:48:39 02-13-91 -> 6938
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: SPECTATOR'S DELIGHT
Here's one that works well as an encore, particularly if you have
an enthusiastic spectator in the audience. Throughout the effect
you get the spectator to repeat what you tell them to.
You take the deck of cards back out of your pocket, look at the
spectator and say, "I'm pretty tired. How about you be the
magician and I'll be the spectator?"
After you get agreement, you say, "This is one of those effects
where the magician makes the spectator do all the work. Tell me
to shuffle and cut the cards."
You shuffle and cut.
You then say, "OK, now tell me to pick a card." (Those who
do nice one-handed fans should love this part).
You pick a card, look at it, and show it to one or two spectators
other than the "magician."
You say, "OK, now tell me to put it back anywhere in the deck."
You put the card back in.
You say, "Now tell me to shuffle and cut the deck."
You shuffle and cut.
You say, "Now ask me if I'm satisfied or if I want to shuffle or
cut some more."
You say, "I'm satisfied. Now ask me if I'd be pretty impressed if
you could find my card."
You say, "I sure would be."
You say, "Now tell me to count down to the seventh card."
Count cards face down.
You say, "Now tell me to turn the card over."
Turn the card over.
You say, "WOW! YOU'RE PRETTY GOOD!"
Of course, the "how" is obvious. You're using a Stan Lake Force
Deck.
Msg #6921 Dated 9:54:12 02-13-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: FRED KAPS
For Kaps fans both here and on MAGIC-NL we have a set of Kaps pictures.
The file is KAPS.PCX and is in the file area. Thanks to Pete Biro.
Msg #6922 Dated 13:47:34 02-13-91 6909 <--> 6929
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CASTLE WHISPERS!
Wow!
One question, though, Pete...what kind of a trade show was it?
Obviously, with such demonstrable honesty and integrity, we can assume
it had nothing to do with the legal or medical professions!
Msg #6923 Dated 13:50:36 02-13-91 6914 <--> 6928
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
Really nice touch!
I saw Billy do his Himber linking rings routine with swizzle stick once
again last night at the Castle in the Parlour, (in fact, he used my
wedding band as one of the rings), and it really is a marvelous routine
just the way Billy performs it! Definately a real crowd pleaser...but,
then again, that is what we've all come to expect of every McCombical
performance! Billy is really a great treasure...both as a clever and
ENTERTAINING magician...and as a mentor and friend of a great number
of magicians, young and old, who benefit from his encouragement, help
and advice. Here's to Billy...It's always a treat to watch him work.
Msg #6924 Dated 15:14:48 02-13-91 6818 <--> 6925
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC/WAR
At the "!" prompt type : GO GULF
It is also available though the Electronic mail area. Actually when you
make your selection from the GO GULF menu it sends you to the
electronic mail menu anyway.
Msg #6925 Dated 15:17:51 02-13-91 6877 <--> 6940
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: RYAN WILSON
Re: MAGIC/WAR
Try again Ryan all I got on this end was: =|.
I don't really know what that means??
Msg #6926 Dated 15:40:50 02-13-91 6893 <-
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: ANTHONY BLAKE (X)
Re: MAHJONGG...
ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST..........
Msg #6927 Dated 16:02:57 02-13-91 -> 6941
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: JARRETT
I never said you were young!
Msg #6928 Dated 16:05:21 02-13-91 6923 <--> 6931
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
McComb is my most favorite book reviewer in Genii each month and I've
based many book purchases on his say so.
Msg #6929 Dated 16:43:32 02-13-91 6909 <--> 6939
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CASTLE WHISPERS!
I wonder what people must have thought that saw the $500? Is that real
money, am I on candid camera?
Msg #6930 Dated 19:04:28 02-13-91 6900 <-
From: MAX MAVEN
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: AL MANN
Al moved from New Jersey several years ago, somewhere further south.
Msg #6931 Dated 21:11:45 02-13-91 6928 <--> 6936
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
His book reviews tend to be overly kind sometimes, however, he does
make a concerted effort to include qualifiers to his praise which will
make the alert reader beware.
That's my criticism of the Magical Press in general...sparse if any
criticism...even when it's well deserved. INSIDE MAGIC is more in tune
with honest editorial opinion than GENII has been. I guess it's
difficult to be brutally honest with your opinions about products for
the magician when a significant portion of your income is derived from
advertising revenues from these very same products. It's
understandable, but I do think that it is the magician who is
shortchanged in the process. After all, newspapers give good, bad and
indifferent reviews to movies and the studios continue to advertise
their films in these very same newspapers, even if their film has been
panned. It should be the same with magic publications. I think the
value and, correspondingly, the readership of GENII would grow as a
result of a sharper editorial policy. Let's face it...not all
performances by all magicians are great...not all tricks and books are
worthwhile, either. When all things are praised, the value of such
praise is nil.
Msg #6933 Dated 21:48:03 02-13-91
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: HELLO
I spoke to George Schindler today and he said to say hello to you.
Msg #6935 Dated 23:07:25 02-13-91 6917 <--> 6946
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: D MODAL THEORY
Is that D Modal?
Msg #6936 Dated 23:07:44 02-13-91 6918 <--> 6937
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
You should see my "appearing" ring on the end of a wire in a flash!
Msg #6937 Dated 23:08:59 02-13-91 6931 <--> 6943
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
YO!
Msg #6938 Dated 23:09:45 02-13-91 6920 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: SPECTATOR'S DELIGHT
Didn't I upload the Twitch Trick? Where spectator has you take a card?
If not let me knw and I will.
Msg #6939 Dated 23:10:38 02-13-91 6922 <--> 6989
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: CASTLE WHISPERS!
I was doing the Permatex booth so it must have been automotive
related.
Msg #6940 Dated 23:11:18 02-13-91 6924 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DARRELL MURPHY
Re: MAGIC/WAR
Many Graciases. GO GULF IT IS.
Msg #6941 Dated 23:11:41 02-13-91 6927 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: JARRETT
BUT i DID.
Msg #6942 Dated 23:22:10 02-13-91 -> 6948
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: TWITCH
TWITCH CARD TRICK REVISITED: Here's one I love to do in the RIGHT
circumstances. (Since all here are very knowledgable I will only
outline the effect -- the method can be anything you want).
You are doing some card work and suddenly look at some guy
and say "It really is hard to see your twitch, but I think I
spotted it. You might not even be aware that you have one, but I
can prove it with a card trick".
Have a card selected and controlled to about 8th from the
top. Explain that as you deal the cards face up you will not look
at the cards, but study the subject's face and look for the
twitch. As small as it might be you can find it you say.
Deal past the selection so he thinks you missed. Stop and
then say, I saw the twitch. He will think you blew it but you
pull aside the actual selected card, which you had passed.
That is part one and only the set up for the great gag that
follows.
Tell him to see if he can spot your twitch. Hand him the
cards and say "OK, it's your turn have me choose a card --- etc."
What you do is curl your leg around one of the legs of the
chair you are sitting on. This will be obvious at the death
(death is a Ken Brooke saying for the "finish" or "punchline").
Card returned to deck anywhere in top 1/3rd. Tell him to
deal the cards one at a time face up, not to look at the cards
but to look for the twitch.
On about the 6th or 7th card, you REALLY TWITCH.... Like you
fly off your chair (your leg kicks the chair across the room) and
land on the floor about 3 feet away flat on your back!
If you have any timing skills, you will know when to say,
"Did you see the twitch?"
Like I said, method is unimportant. Where and when is all
that matters. If you hurt yourself doing this, sue Lichtman, its
his BBS!!!
Msg #6943 Dated 23:38:29 02-13-91 6923 <--> 6944
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
Billy McComb is indeed a treasure. Fun to watch on many levels.
Msg #6944 Dated 23:39:25 02-13-91 6936 <--> 6957
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
Wanna write up your ring on wire?
Msg #6946 Dated 23:43:00 02-13-91 6935 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: D MODAL THEORY
Nope. "D' modal" was a '57 Chevy. You know, someone once said that
Lee Iacoca missed the boat - Chrysler never had a youth following in
the '50's so there was no nostalgia for it. He could have turned
Crysler around overnight if he'd simply reissued the '57 Chevy under
one of his brands. Every yuppie in America would buy one.
Hmmmm... Funny thing, there could be a lesson for magicians in that!
Msg #6948 Dated 23:50:03 02-13-91 6942 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TWITCH
I don't think you've uploaded that one before, Pete. I would have
noticed. Actually, I think that any reasonable judge (ooops, isn't
that an oxymoron?) in the land would recognize you as the culprit.
Besides, what would a potential litigant win from me? The MAGIC!
system? After a couple of days, believe me, it would be like The
Randsom of Red Chief - I'd get paid to take it back.
Twitch does sound pretty funny tho.
Msg #6949 Dated 23:54:58 02-13-91 -> 6950
From: GREGO WILMOTH
To: ALL
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
Does anyone know if Martin Lewis is on this board or does anyone have
his address?
Msg #6950 Dated 23:57:12 02-13-91 6949 <--> 6958
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: GREGO WILMOTH (X)
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
Martin Lewis IS registered to MAGIC! He has not signed on in some
time, however. Why doesn't someone who knows him give him a call and
tell him we are waiting for him?
Msg #6952 Dated 0:33:06 02-14-91
From: FRANK ZAK
To: HARRISON CARROLL (X)
Re: HI HAR.
Hi Har.
How was Atlanta? Did you get my message regarding 5.1. I still need it.
School is hectic. I'll be glad when it is over. I got a call for a show
on mar. 16. 20 min for $500. I think I'm going to take it and hope that
I can get the day off. It's worth a shot. I'll talk to you soon. It's
12:30 am now and I'm tired.
Frank
Msg #6953 Dated 0:58:32 02-14-91
From: ANTHONY BLAKE
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: 1/F
Yo Taboo...
I read with great interest your piece on 1/f power
(frequencies?). I figure that if 1/f has so much power than I
must be super human...I was recently classified 4/f!
THE GEEKMAN!
Msg #6954 Dated 0:59:08 02-14-91 -> 6970
From: ANTHONY BLAKE
To: ALL
Re: OH, NOOOOO!!!
While I was reading the Sunday Calender section of the L.A.
Times earler today (yes I know it's Wednesday...so I'm slow), I
ran across something interesting. In the section listing what is
appearing in Vegas showrooms I found under Bally's that in the
Catch A Rising Star showroom a Hal Marquardt would be appearing
later this month. For those of you not familiar with the
name...he is the gentlemen (?) who several years ago created a
major controversy in magic....He was the one and only "Mystery
Magician". He quickly disappeared from the scene (gee, I wonder
why) after he had been dismissed from the Castle and from what I
understand several other magic organizations. Although a
somewhat able magi back then...his act was not great (mediocre
at best). Wonder if he's gotten any better? I'll post more info.
as I get it.
THE GEEKMAN!
Msg #6955 Dated 1:06:40 02-14-91
From: SHAWN FARQUHAR
To: ALL
Re: CONVENTIONS
I would like to know if anyone is aware of the full list of cometitors
for this years Desert Seminar. I have seen a seven person list and
would be interested in Knowing the rest. Thanks.
Msg #6957 Dated 7:56:58 02-14-91 6944 <--> 6960
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
OK. You have actually not awire, but a telescopic pointer (like car
antanea) and on the small end you put a small wire hook. Shaped like a
skinny "U" not roundish like a coffee cup hook.
In a routine that I have used Roy Roth's Ring Grinder to destroy a
borrowed ring turning it to "gold dust" I finish thusly.
Wrap the dust in 4x4 pc of flashpaper like Kankdy Kiss shape.
Lots of gags here but that's for each performer to develop. (Mike
Finney uses this in his pro comedy club act).
You have the borrowed ring finger palmed. You bring out the pointer and
"open" it up (the ring is loaded on like ring on wand move) AS YOU OPEN
the pointer. This covers any noise ofring against metal.
You hang the packet of flash paper on the hook.
Holding the pointer horizontal in front of you, you light the flash
paper (under the flash you lower end of pointer) and at same time let
the ring "slide" down the pointer. It will not be seen because of
the flash. The hook at the end keeps ring from falling off.
IT APPEARS FROM THE FLAMES. THIS IS FABULOUS MAGIC, EVEN IF I HAVE TO
SAY SO MYSELF.
Msg #6958 Dated 8:03:47 02-14-91 6949 <--> 6959
From: PETE BIRO
To: GREGO WILMOTH
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
Mike Caveney and Harry Anderson are Martin Lewis's closest friends, and
none of the above are on this board.
Msg #6959 Dated 8:04:32 02-14-91 6950 <--> 6961
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
OK I LIED. Actually Martin would have a tuff time loggin' on as
Iunderstand he is on a long cruise booking.
Msg #6960 Dated 8:21:50 02-14-91 6957 <--> 6966
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
That is pretty flashy magic, Pete! Really good. What happens to the
"gold dust"?
Msg #6961 Dated 8:23:38 02-14-91 6958 <--> 6962
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
Any chance you can send 'em (Caveney and Anderson) some info and get
'em on here? Martin IS a registered member, but maybe he lost the
phone number or something?
Msg #6962 Dated 8:25:13 02-14-91 6959 <--> 6976
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
So what's the excuse? They've got phones on ships. Somewhere, in an
old issue of Online there is a picture of me calling into ECANET from
my car.
Msg #6965 Dated 9:09:59 02-14-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CAVALCADE OF ACTS
Peteman,
You mustof ordered THE MAN WHO WAS ERDNASE in the leather
bound autographed version. I've been pacing the floors around
here waiting for the regular clothbound copies to be sent out.
434 pages. Thats about twice what was advertised. He promised it
would be worth the wait, plus like you say all the great history
to absorb. I hope it rains the day after it comes in cause I know
I'll wanna hole up and read. Sunny days get me up and atem as I
can't hardly stand being indoors on a nice day.
I heard there were still copies left that hadn't been
presold so you may still have a chance at getting a few more
books. Maybe you could get the clothbound autographed (saaay,
thatz an idea).
Got a letter from Ben Harris down Australia way. He
wanted to know what I meant when I said he was "out there". Told
him it meant "good" in a fringe sort of way. He is an example of
one of those minds I was referring to in my last tabman stuff
online.
Looking through the new Amusement Business CAVALCADE OF
ACTS AND ATTRACTIONS at the Magicians and Illusionists section
and find well over 200 magicians who had the good sense to get
listed. There are a lot of well known names who neglected to be
included in this valuable resource. "It's in the Cavalcade" which
is on most talent buyers and sellers desks.
In the Hypnotist and Mentalist catagory there are about
50 represented (Max is there). Several hundred are represented in
the Novelty/Variety group.
Copperman, Cervon, Mullican (sic) and Blackstone are
there (print or type carefully), but a number of other less
bright stars left themselves out by not paying attention to the
entertainment industry as a whole. Since inclusion is free and as
simple as letting them know you're out there there isn't any
excuse not to be listed.
Do you read Seance Quarterly? Most excellent publication
which is ceasing to print after Summer 1991. I offered to buy the
magazine from Scott, but he intends hanging on to it for the time
being. I don't know beans about publishing a magazine, but like
it so much that I just didn't want to see it stop publication. I
assume Scott will keep up with his other stuff. We're having
lunch ina coupla weeks so will know more then.
Your writings of late have been most excellent, Biro-san.
The emerging lifestyle must be good for you. Keep up the good
work and remember me in your will.
yo friend,
_|_ |_
| /-\ |_| |\/| /-\ |\|
PS. Go have some fun in La Jolla. I did.
Msg #6966 Dated 9:34:21 02-14-91 6957 <--> 6967
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
Fabulous, indeed. In a poof of gold dust. I like it.
Msg #6967 Dated 9:39:40 02-14-91 6957 <--> 6980
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
Wire the pointer and have a rocket igniter at the hook
end so the flash paper goes up with a wave of the finger. Have
the spectator wrap the gold dust in the flashpaper kiss or did
you say that? Sorry, just got my mind churning at the
possibilities. I don't normally act like this.
sg #6968 Dated 12:44:25 02-14-91 -> 6969
From: JEFF BUSBY
To: ALL
Re: ALBERT GOSHMAN DIES
A sad announcement: After a remarkable period of remission from cancer,
Albert Goshman suffered a relapse. He was hospitalized Friday and died
yesterday at home, February 13th. His wife Dorothy reports that there
are plans for a service on Sunday, and there might be a memorial
gathering at the Magic Castle. Another great joins the list of those
gone so recently.
Msg #6969 Dated 12:50:10 02-14-91 6968 <--> 6971
From: TABBY CRABB
To: JEFF BUSBY (X)
Re: ALBERT GOSHMAN DIES
Sad indeed!
Msg #6970 Dated 13:02:47 02-14-91 6954 <--> 7033
From: EVAN KATZ
To: ANTHONY BLAKE (X)
Re: OH, NOOOOO!!!
Will somone PLEASE once and for all explain the
Mystery Magician contreversy? Also, was there another,
separate "Magic Man" controversy? A few moments of someone's
time who's in the know would be greatly appreciated.
Msg #6971 Dated 13:51:27 02-14-91 6969 <--> 6972
From: JEFF BUSBY
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ALBERT GOSHMAN DIES
Been off-line for a couple of weeks and you must know why. The book
started shipping Thursday, Jan 31st. We didn't play favorites --
shipment in order of the receipt of orders -- with over 80 books
shipped every working day since publication. The final load just moved
today. Biro happens to be a local boy now, so delivery was a bit
faster to him than to the rest of the country (and elsewhere in the
world). By the way, the book is not 434 pages, it is 448 pages --
there are xiv pages before the numbering of the text starts -- which
does make it 250% larger than advertised. And, those pages contain
graphics and text too -- including a wonderful cabinet photograph of
Erdnase as a young man. It's gruesome, but when you get the book, also
check out the photo of Erdnase on p. 37, read the footnote, compare,
and cogitate. Pete didn't mention it, but there are four autographs in
the leather edition, not just the three you might expect. The guys who
ordered the cloth aren't left out of the puzzle, though.
So far the book has received outstanding comments from some pretty good
guys. But wait and see. The stuff stacks up when I don't log on to
MAGIC! regularly, so I'll have to sift through a couple of weeks of
back-and-forth before I can get back to you on the messages. Just
dropped in today to give the sad news of Albert's passing. I have
some great stories about him, and I'm sure Pete does too. Gotta run.
Type at you soon.
Msg #6972 Dated 14:14:29 02-14-91 6968 <--> 6973
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JEFF BUSBY (X)
Re: ALBERT GOSHMAN DIES
We are all very sorry to hear of the tragic passing of Albert Goshman.
I was thinking of him just this morning. If anyone learns details of
the funeral or the possbile memorial service, please pass them along as
soon as possible.
Msg #6973 Dated 14:35:52 02-14-91 6971 <--> 7023
From: TREVOR GRIFFITHS
To: JEFF BUSBY (X)
Re: ALBERT GOSHMAN DIES
Hi Jeff, Hope you got my phone order ok ?
Msg #6976 Dated 16:59:31 02-14-91 6962 <--> 6982
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
Martin recently cut his hand badly enough to keep him from being able
to perform; I believe he's currently in Long Beach, waiting to heal.
Msg #6978 Dated 17:03:27 02-14-91 -> 6984
From: MAX MAVEN
To: ALL
Re: MORE
A hell of a year; yet another death to report: Dick Jarrow passed away
yesterday in Chicago. No details.
Msg #6980 Dated 17:13:46 02-14-91 6960 <--> 6981
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
You sweep it under the rug.
Msg #6981 Dated 17:14:15 02-14-91 6967 <--> 6987
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
I'm glad.
Msg #6982 Dated 17:14:31 02-14-91 6961 <--> 6983
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
He's probably on cruise (Lewis, that is). I forget the original query.
Msg #6983 Dated 17:15:04 02-14-91 6962 <--> 6990
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
Not the little ships magicians work on....
Msg #6984 Dated 17:18:07 02-14-91 6978 <--> 6996
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: MORE
OH, no... Jarrow, another one of the "good guys"... thanks for info Max
Msg #6985 Dated 17:18:47 02-14-91 -> 6998
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: GOSHMAN IS GONE
I'm having a hard time writing this one.
One of my favorite people in the world has gone.
We knew he was not well. But we were told he was recovering. I
had asked him to come to the IBM Convention in Baltimore this
next July to work for us. He said he would be glad to.
But, Albert "The Baker that's a Faker" Goshman is no more.
I don't think ANYONE in magic contributed more in the way of
making the close up table into a theater.
You've all seen Goshiman (That's what I called him ever since we
spent countless nights eating Yakitori in a dark alley, under a
railroad bridge, just outside the Tokyo train station) do his
magic -- if you haven't you haven't seen all the magic.
Goshman was probably as well known for having dirty shirts and
neckties than he was for his magic.
It didn't matter if the shirt wasn't clean.
The magic of Albert Goshman was real. The Magic of Albert Goshman
was fun.
I don't think I will ever see a Salt Shaker for the rest of my
life that I won't pick up to see if Albert left something under
it.
His magic has been preserved in print and on video tape. In that
way, in addition to the memory of him--and the magic he created--
he will always be with us.
Msg #6987 Dated 18:48:02 02-14-91 6931 <--> 6988
From: JIM SISTI
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
Since you were discussing the "magical press," I thought I would put my
two cents in. The problem with reviews in magic publications in
general is that the reviewers own taste, skill level and field of
expertise (if any) may not suit him ideally to review that particular
book or effect. Take the recent review of "The Magic Menu" in GENII.
The reviewer made a self-serving comment about the price of our
newsletter versus GENII. He happened to mention that we were more
expensive than "the mag you are reading." He failed to mention that we
were almost a dollar cheaper per issue than Lorayne's "Apocalypse,"
which is also a 12-page newsletter. The problem is that the reviewer
is most definitely NOT a restaurant or bar worker. All of our
subscribers (the list of which is growing daily) feel that the
information they're getting from "The Magic Menu" is invaluable for
WHAT THEY DO FOR A LIVING! But if you're not in need of that
particular information, "The Magic Menu" is not worth even the paper
it's printed on to that particular reviewer. The other side of the
coin is that "The Magic Menu" also has reviews, some of which are quite
harsh. However, if we bomb something, it doesn't necessarily mean it's
a bad trick or book (though it may be!)...it just means that the
particular effect or tome is not suitable or particularly helpful to
restaurant and bar workers. Because our target demographic is so
specific, our readers can count on our reviews being from that
perspective. Consequently, the reviews found in the general magic mags
are unreliable because there is no frame of reference for the reviews.
Msg #6988 Dated 20:05:16 02-14-91 6987 <--> 6991
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
Point well taken. That's why reviewers should QUALIFY their remarks
with their expectations/reasoning/etc. They should also not be
intimidated by the advertising revenue needs of their publication into
giving unearned praise. Also---reviewers who spew unjustified praise
for books and tricks simply because they obtain FREE books and materials
for review.....these folks should be run out of town on a rail! There
is no service to the reader/magician privided by such printed bilge!
Msg #6989 Dated 20:13:09 02-14-91 6939 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CASTLE WHISPERS!
I shoulda known!
Msg #6990 Dated 20:15:06 02-14-91 6983 <--> 6993
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
I spoke to Martin about a month ago and his hand was not in great
shape, but healing. He indicated to me that he has the number for
MAGIC! and that he'd be signing on again soon....although, as I said,
that was about a month ago....kinda makes you want to look up the
Webster's definition of "soon."
Msg #6991 Dated 20:27:44 02-14-91 6988 <--> 6997
From: JIM SISTI
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
Once again, I agree. In fact, at a recent editorial staff meeting, we
all agreed not to accept any advertising in "The Magic Menu," something
we've been approached about three times already. We may enclose flyers
in with issues, but only for products that we feel are supportive of
the magazines objectives. It is our primarily goal at this stage in
our existance to gain the absolute trust of our readers.
Msg #6992 Dated 20:31:01 02-14-91 -> 7004
From: JIM SISTI
To: ALL
Re: THE NEW "MAGIC MENU"
The March/April issue of "The Magic Menu" is now available. It's 12
pages in length (as all future issues will be) and features an
interview with Eugene Burger and a trick from MAGIC!'s own Tabby Crabb.
In all fairness, it's the same trick that's available for d/l from
MAGIC!, but we added some illustrations, etc. Al the Only's Q & A
column continues, "Behind Bars" by Chris Hurlbert (advice for working
bars), reviews of the latest tricks and books (Harry Lorayne won't be
very happy, but Mike Ammar and Jay Sankey will be), and some great
original magic. If you want a copy, drop me $3.00. It says $4.00 on
the cover, but for MAGIC! folks...such a deal! The address is 40 Noe
Place, A-8, Beacon Falls, CT 06403.
Msg #6993 Dated 23:30:39 02-14-91 6976 <--> 6994
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
Sorry about the cut hand, but what a perfect time to get active on
MAGIC! again. Then again, Ammar is sitting in Texas with a broken hand
and hasn't made good on his joining us. Gee, you'd think a little
MAGIC! would come in handy during times like that.
Msg #6994 Dated 23:32:40 02-14-91 6983 <--> 7007
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DOES ANYBODY KNOW?
I don't know... I was out on a fairly small sailboat for a business
meeting once and the guy had a phone. Magi can't be working ships
smaller than that. Anyway, it appears that Martin is at home, but I'm
sure that someone is out working on a cruise.
Msg #6996 Dated 23:35:58 02-14-91 6978 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: MORE
You are right, Max, this year doesn't appear to have started well for
magi. But I suspect that some blockbuster magic superstars have also
been born this year - we just don't know who they are yet. Then again,
YOU may know who they are!
Msg #6997 Dated 23:39:04 02-14-91 6980 <--> 7003
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HIMBER MOVES
OK, thanks. I'll remember to bring a rug with me.
Msg #6998 Dated 23:42:33 02-14-91 6985 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: GOSHMAN IS GONE
Tough duty writing that piece, Pete. You said it well.
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