MAGIC! - 21
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.
NOTE: Between the creation of MAGIC-20 and MAGIC-21 the messages
were renumbered. Sixty-seven semi-permanent messages were left
on the system. Message # 68, below, under the "old" numbering
system, was message # 10001 (Message # 10000 was a private
message and does not appear in the files). Due to the semi-
permanent messages, MAGIC-21 does not represent a "full" 500
messages.
Msg #68 Dated 16:08:12 04-14-91 89 <--> 71
From: JERRY BURTON
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Regarding the method of getting the card to the outside of the window.
In reviewing the tape, it is exactly 3 seconds from when he moves the
lamp until he starts spraying the cards against the window, which lasts
for just over a second. This means he could have used a time delay
switch that was activated when he moved the lamp or he could have used
a foot switch to activate an external device that flipped up and
planted the card to the outside. The camera angle is perfect in that the area
of the window where the card appears is TOTALLY obscured by the cards
hitting the inside of the window. It was a killer effect !
Burton the Bizzare
Msg #71 Dated 18:58:33 04-14-91 68 <--> 72
From: EVAN KATZ
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I think discussion of a foot switch or any device that COPPERFIELD
himself operated is moot -- surely if you were doing a television
special on that scale, and you had a crew around you of, minimum,
twenty people, you'd just have someone else do the dirty work! I don't
think at all that Copperfield would have any moral objections, when he
accomplished the final effect (vanishing train car) with... how many
stooges was that?
Msg #72 Dated 19:35:21 04-14-91 71 <--> 75
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
It is possible that moving the furniture was a signal to indicate that
the cards were ready inside the train. There are two other things to
check - the fact that the deck moves off screen when he is moving the
furniture and the REFLECTION of the front card as he aims at the
window. Truly, it was a superb piece of business and the camera was
lined up perfectly with his hands and the cards blocking the window.
Msg #75 Dated 19:50:06 04-14-91 71 <--> 80
From: RICHARD HART
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
As to the vanishing train car. Didn't go down. Didn't go to the side,
so the only place it could have gone is up. If you look at the cover
when D.C. pulls it off, it becomes apparent that the entire back side
of the train car was uncovered and _visible_ to the "spectators"
ringing the rear area. What did they see? Did they see the car lifted
up, and then back over their heads? Hmm..
Msg #76 Dated 20:05:58 04-14-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC CASTLE
Richard Hatch, partner in H&R books with Charlie Randall, will be
performing late Parlour at the Castle April 15th to 21st, 1991. MAGIC!
members who have the opportunity should drop by to see Richard's work
and to say "Hi."
Msg #77 Dated 21:57:20 04-14-91 -> 78
From: GARY PLANTS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: WAX
David, the earplug wax you are looking for should be found in most Drug
Stores. The stuff I have is marketed under the name of MACKS EARPLUGS.
It comes two pair per plastic container and it works real good. I
have found that you don't use it as a small ball. Instead you rub it
on the card and it will then stick to another card real easily. If
you can't find it let me know and I will get some for you. Later.
Msg #78 Dated 22:33:27 04-14-91 77 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: GARY PLANTS (X)
Re: WAX
Wow!, Gary - Thanks for the wax info! Really appreciate it. Will look
for it in local stores or will ask a couple of California surfers to
bring it back from the beach.
Msg #80 Dated 23:14:15 04-14-91 75 <--> 81
From: EVAN KATZ
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Vanishing train car correction -- didn't go down, didn't go to the
side, BUT IT DIDN'T GO UP, EITHER!! It didn't go toward us either, so
I count only one more direction. Hmm.
Msg #81 Dated 23:17:12 04-14-91 72 <--> 84
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Think about it, David. Copperfield doesn't need to move the furniture
to signal the cards are ready -- he's got an entire crew armed with
walkie talkies and monitors! You're thinking about the effect like it
was a normal close-up or parlour arrangement, but this isn't! We
probably saw the tenth take! When the camera was lined up perfectly to
block the card hitting the window, I'm sure that didn't happen the
first time -- and I'm sure Copperfield had a "mark," like any
performer.
Don't get the idea I think anything's wrong with this -- the specials
clearly take the position that effect is more important than method --
hence the use of stooges in the final effect, etc. But in analyzing
things, let's not forget that Copperfield isn't REALLY in a train care
alone with Jane Seymour. He's in there with many other people around,
including two cameras, a sound guy, a couple lighting guys...
Msg #83 Dated 23:26:21 04-14-91 -> 121
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: JAMES LEWIS AT THE CASTLE
Yes, Stan. Lewis is a remarkable performer.
One of the particularly nice aspects of James Lewis' performances is
that they are always improving. Now, those who have not been fortunate
enough to have ever seen him perform must be informed that his level of
magical expertise and performance is of a very high calibre to begin
with. My point is that Lewis never seems content and is always adding
new touches to his older routines and altogether new routines as well!
You should try to catch him next time he performs in the Parlour, Stan.
You'll be treated to another completely different aspect of his magical
capabilities.
Msg #84 Dated 0:35:16 04-15-91 80 <--> 87
From: RICHARD HART
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Into the Twilight Zone???
Msg #85 Dated 5:57:06 04-15-91 -> 86
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC COLLECTORS' WEEKEND
The Magic Collectors' Weekend was held this past weekend, April
11-14, in Chicago. It was truly an amazing event. The speakers
included David Sigafus, Jim Magus, Mark Walker, Dr. Albo, William V.
Rauscher, Dom Dimento, Jim Steinmeyer, Byron Walker, Robert Olson,
David Meyer, Sid Radner, Jay Marshall, Ricky Jay, Robert Lund, and John
Gaughan. Of these my favorites were William Rauscher's talk about the
Houdini Code and Arthur Ford, Jim Steinmeyer's talk about Thurston's
Secret Work Book, Byron Walker's presentation about Samri S. Baldwin -
The Original White Mahatma, Ricky Jay on semantic subterfuge, and John
Gaughan's recreation of Maskelyne's Zoe.
The Thurston Secret Work Book is going to be made into a book by Jim
Steinmeyer. The work book itself is a book Thurston apparently put
together to record the illusions in his show should he ever need to
rebuild them. The book contains numerous photos showing every detail
of the illusions, including dimensions, actually written on the photos.
In many cases the patter is also included. Magical Publications is
releasing the book in June/July. (brief ad, H and R will carry it).
It looks like it will be a great book.
John Gaughan had perhaps the neatest thing at the convention with his
recreated Zoe. Zoe was a mechanical girl in Maskelyne's show. She
would draw audience requested items, add numbers, and play tic-tac-toe.
It was a beautiful thing to see. And to get to visit "backstage"
afterwards and see the inner workings was a treat for me. From an
engineering point-of-view it was a marvel to behold.
Other noteworthy attendees included Eugene Burger, Richard Kaufman,
Harry Blackstone, Mike Caveney, Bill Lewis, George Johnstone, Frances
Marshall, Simon Aronson, David Salomone, Steve Draun, Robert Parrish,
Mark Wilson, John Booth, Marshall Brodien, Stewart James, David Ben,
Stuart Cramer, Phil Temple, and many more. It was a real pleasure to
meet Eugene Burger. He seems to be a great guy and just a delightful
guy to talk to.
And then there was the dealer room. I bought way more than I should
have. What am I going to do with all these books and memorabilia?
Besides books I got some interesting letters and blank letterheads.
>From Mike Caveney, I bought a packet of Carter memorabilia including
two of the best-looking letterheads I've ever seen. They will be
framed and placed somewhere on my living room walls. Books, oh boy,
did I get some neat new things. Everywhere you looked there was just
the most incredible stuff, autographed items, rare one-of-a-kinds,
lovely posters, old and rare items, etc. Fortunately H and R sold a
few items to help offset my costs. Unfortunately we bought a whole
bunch of new inventory. Anyone need a set of Goldston locked books?
Or Eugene Burger's new book (I've already read it, it's really good but
oh so different).
On the side, Carl Williams showed me the niftiest "pocket trick"
that I've seen in sometime. It is a zig-zag half dollar that is so
clean. And the apparatus is a thing of beauty, real craftmanship.
It's not cheap, but I wouldn't mind having one!
Well I hope this makes some sense. I'm writing it late at night,
after only getting an hour and a half of sleep last night. THAT tells
you how good it was. I can't wait until next year.
Charlie
Msg #86 Dated 7:16:34 04-15-91 85 <--> 157
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: MAGIC COLLECTORS' WEEKEND
Thanks for the report, Charlie! Sounds like a really great event.
Msg #87 Dated 7:24:58 04-15-91 81 <--> 91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
OK, so why does he move the stuff around?
Msg #88 Dated 7:26:22 04-15-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: RENUMBERING
In the very near future, probably right after we pass message number
10100, I plan to RENUMBER the messages. Since there are a number of
messages that are required to remain behind the regular series, the new
numbers will not start with "1" - more likely around "200."
At the same time, I will probably be cleaning up the membership
records. So if you have friends who haven't signed on to MAGIC! in
more than a month or so, you might suggest that they do so in order to
avoid being "purged."
The renumbering should not present any problem to collectors, as the
Volume numbers (i.e. MAGIC-21) will still reflect the sequence.
Msg #89 Dated 8:36:18 04-15-91 76 <--> 246
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD-I-O-GRAMS
I was in and out so fast even the Chaparrals didn't see me. See my
message, however, about the missing pilot. OH I HVEN'T UPLOADED IT YET.
HERE IT COMES.
Msg #90 Dated 8:37:29 04-15-91 -> 110
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: DISH STUFF
AlI want to buy the system. I dEN.2 i sis only 40,00 forty t hou
getting akn *line noise?
Msg #91 Dated 8:39:47 04-15-91 68 <--> 93
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Gaeton Bloom has a marketed trick that tears the "matching" piece.
Actually matches a previous tear. diobolical. Got to go offline, back
in two minutes.
Msg #92 Dated 8:42:35 04-15-91 -> 113
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: TRAVEL TRICK
Well fellow MOJO MEN.... a first!!!! Here I sit, comfortably (?)
on my airplane, America West from Phoenix to Long Beach, with a
VERY TIGHT schedule to be at work in Long Beach at a particular
time... the voice comes on over the speaker, "Well folks, we're
all set, the passengers are all on board, the luggage is loaded,
we are ready. But we can't find the Pilot!!!!! We called for a
standby, and he can be here in twenty minutes!"
Jokes start. One guy in the back yells, "Hey, we have some Iraqi
pilots here in the back.... they can take off.... but they don't
know how to land!" Another says, "I bet he's here at the airport,
but it takes 20 minutes to get to the gate from the ticket
counter!!!" I have never been to an airport this confusing. It
not only big, clean, and modern... but the architect probably
never had to carry a bag anywhere.
The rental car garage is a half mile away, but they have "moving
walkways" only trouble is they have a break between them that is
about 50 yards long, then when they end you go into the doors
(which are another 50 yards from the end of the conveyor!!!) You
go to the rent car return counter for your bill and it is at the
far opposite end of the building. Then you come all the way back
to the doors you came in. A sign says "Passengers take elevator
to level 3" -- you go to level 3 and they say Gates A-B to the
left, Gates C to the right. Only they don't say which airlines
are at which gates.
Hay... one happy passenger. Just got on, was 12 minutes late.
Harumph!
Ok so I took the wrong route, got out to C gates and they said,
"Your airline is at gate A". Sounds simple. I go out there but
then I find you have to go down to level 2 to the ticket counter
to see the monitors to find out which gate is yours.
Puff, puff, puff... OK, so the job I did last night ran past
midnight and by the time I filed my story on Compuserve (covering
the off-road Stadium races in Phoenix) (Our team came in 2nd!
Boo!) it was 1:45 AM Sunday and my flight is -- er was -- set to
go at 8:19 AM. I won't go into how badly marked the road in is
(it is, like all other airport roads UNDER CONSTRUCTION).
Well, at least the co-pilot has the motor running! I hope the
standby guy they found wasn't a Northwest pilot (well it would be
easy to find one...just look in the bar!) Thank you Jay Leno.
What does this have to do with MAGIC! About as much as Goobers
do! Which is more important than packet tricks!!!! For sure!!!!
If we don't leave soon, there will be more text following this
line. I mean THIS LINE.
Msg #93 Dated 8:43:57 04-15-91 76 <--> 94
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Buy the Gaeton Bloome version.
Msg #94 Dated 8:44:19 04-15-91 79 <--> 95
From: PETE BIRO
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I think you guys are all weaklings if you can't tear a card. Cheesh.
Have you practice it for more than seven minutes?
Msg #95 Dated 8:45:36 04-15-91 89 <--> 96
From: PETE BIRO
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
You're getting close!
Msg #96 Dated 8:46:11 04-15-91 92 <--> 97
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
That was too obvious!
Msg #97 Dated 8:46:35 04-15-91 94 <--> 98
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
No comment
Msg #98 Dated 8:47:17 04-15-91 68 <--> 99
From: PETE BIRO
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
As in MY "Card on Airplane Window" (where -- I wasn't going to tip
this) the ASSISTANT rides on the
wing)
ERROR reads: this -- the ASSISTANT RIDES ON THE WING) I think DC had to
time it so when the train went by either a Mail Pickup bracket (and it
hits the train at the same time every trip) or he had HIS ASSISTANT
riding the rail? If this makes no sense, the computer is screwin
up the
lines and garbling what I see on the screen.
Msg #99 Dated 8:51:00 04-15-91 80 <--> 100
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Did anyone else hear the air letting out?
Msg #100 Dated 8:51:49 04-15-91 87 <--> 105
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
To fill time? Actually, I have not seen the tape yet. Will see it (if
my new VCR worked and the electricity didn't go out) tonight. At this
moment I am in Long Beach (on someone else's free phone!!!!)
Msg #101 Dated 8:53:00 04-15-91
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEO TAPE RENTAL
Let's design a VCR Virus!!!!
Msg #102 Dated 8:53:46 04-15-91 81 <--> 161
From: PETE BIRO
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: DMS
This is to Geno.... I have talked with M. Gaughan at the Gold Coast as
a site for the close up conventnion. Let me know if you like it.
Msg #103 Dated 8:54:35 04-15-91
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ROCKY MT MAGIC
Next trip to Vegas TAB and I will be running a FARO Bank.
Msg #104 Dated 8:55:04 04-15-91 -> 131
From: PETE BIRO
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: OPENING DAY
I am travlling, can you re-post the phone nr? I will be home late
Monday nite (tonite).
Msg #105 Dated 10:50:49 04-15-91 87 <--> 106
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Probably just to clear things for the final camera angle!
Msg #106 Dated 10:52:17 04-15-91 94 <--> 107
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
What name is the Bloom effect marketed under?
Msg #107 Dated 10:56:18 04-15-91 84 <--> 111
From: EVAN KATZ
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
No.
Msg #109 Dated 13:27:50 04-15-91 -> 114
From: GENO MUNARI
To: ALL
Re: OSE MUNARI'S PASSING
April 14, 1991
For immediate release:
ROSE MUNARI DIES - MOTHER OF GENO MUNARI
ONE OF THE ORIGINAL ROSIE THE RIVETERS
(LAS VEGAS) - Rose Munari, son of Las Vegas writer/producer Geno
Munari, died of a heart attack on Saturday, at age 72.
Rose Munari was born in Van Nuys, California and played a part of
history during World War II, as one of the original "Rosie the
Riveters", of the famed Lockheed Aircraft Company, in Burbank,
Calif. At 102 lbs., and 5' 2", Rose Munari was the ideal size to
slink into aircraft wings during the construction process, which
garnered her a great deal of publicity for Lockheed.
In Rose Munari's early employment, she was an usher at the famous
Pantages Theater, in Hollywood, where she became close friends to
many Hollywood movie stars and celebrities. There she met the
famous Burt Wheeler and Louie St. Pierre, owners of Hollywood
Magic. Rose joined St. Pierre, in the manufacturing division,
managing the magic-and novelty division.
Rose gave birth to Geno Munari, in 1946, and because of her close
association in magic and entertainment, she encouraged her son to
write, learn film-making and perform magic.
"My career is all because of my mom's encouragement and belief in
me," says her son. "She opened all the right doors."
Rose is survived by her son Geno, grandson Matthew, sisters
Matilda and Josephine. Services will be held at Palm Mortuary on
Tuesday.
-30-
Msg #110 Dated 14:30:56 04-15-91 90 <--> 130
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DISH STUFF
Your message was an outstanding example of line noise - er, "thank you
for sharing that." As to the $40,000 for the Kodak system, now you
know why we used the Canon A1 Digitals at Desert Magic! Not nearly as
nice, but about 1/15th the price.
Msg #111 Dated 14:32:36 04-15-91 91 <--> 112
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I've gone over the tape yet again, and there are some moves that make
it look like he DIDN'T switch the corner and some that DEFINITELY look
like he DID. Sure wish I'd remembered to set the machine to Beta I
instead of Beta III.
Msg #112 Dated 14:35:22 04-15-91 105 <--> 119
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Maybe. But most magi don't touch anything if they haven't got a good
reason to do so. The scene was set with a wider shot, so the stuff
coulda' been out of the way to start with.
Msg #113 Dated 14:36:36 04-15-91 92 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TRAVEL TRICK
Surprising they admited it! Usually, when the pilot gets lost, they
use a bit of misdirection and blame a jammed baggage cart.
Msg #114 Dated 14:38:10 04-15-91 109 <--> 118
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: GENO MUNARI (X)
Re: OSE MUNARI'S PASSING
Geno - very sorry to hear of your mother's passing. Our thoughts are
with you.
Msg #115 Dated 14:39:39 04-15-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MATT MATSUYAMA
Re: MAGIC! IN JAPAN
Matt -
I spent some time on the telephone today with KDD (the phone
company) in Japan. They quoted some rates to call the United
States to me that are very much lower than those you reported
paying. You might want to check with them to find out why you are
paying so much more.
Here's what they told me:
Standard rate - 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
340 Yen ($2.61) for the first minute
170 Yen ($1.31) for each additional minute
Discount rate - 11 p.m. to 8 a.m.
200 Yen ($1.54) for the first minute
110 Yen (85 cents) for each additional minute
The discount rate is probably VERY CLOSE to what you are paying
now with Nifty-Serve charges and access to the United States.
In addition, I found out that there is something called a "public
packet switching network" that is designed for computer calls to
the United States. It was not exactly clear to me how you could
access this, but the cost could be as low as 30 Yen (23 cents) per
minute! To find out more about this, you should try to call
Koichi Tanagi at 81-3-240-8447. This data network may be called
DDX-P or VSP. The same office at KDD may have other advice on how
to access MAGIC! on an inexpensive basis.
Msg #116 Dated 15:17:43 04-15-91 -> 308
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: SWIMMER'S WAX INFO
- Tricks, ideas and effects ------------------------- LOCAL001 -
Msg : 34 of 35 Loc
From : Tommy Wonder 14 Apr 91 17:57:00
To : David Lichtman
Subj : swimmer's wax
----------------------------------------------------------------
The swimmers wax is sold in England under the trade name
"Muffles". The main thing is you need a wax which is sticky under
normal temperature and does not stain the card too much.
So you should be able to find a suitable wax.
Kind regards, Tommy..
Msg #117 Dated 15:18:20 04-15-91 -> 165
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: ALL
Re: BRUCE RUDOLPH
- Tricks, ideas and effects -------------------------- LOCAL001 -
Msg : 35 of 35 Loc
From : Tommy Wonder 14 Apr 91 18:09:00
To : All
Subj : Bruce Rudolph
-----------------------------------------------------------------
I have not read the article of Bruce Rudolph so I cannot comment
on that, and I do not know wether I would agree with his article
or not. But rergarding this business if people believe in magic
or not, it depends on how you look at it.
No, most people do not believe in magic, do not believe cards can
change colour or coins can vanish. But I am convinced that when
you perform magic, and it is done correctly, people DO BELIEVE at
the moment they experience it. At the very moment the card
changes or the coin vanishes, the audience is hit with the magic,
and what they experience is very real indeed. This is because it
is an emotional experience. Later, when they think about it they
will know, o.k. this is a trick, it is not real. But at the moment
it happens it is real, and so at that moment itself people do
believe the magic, because it is experienced as reality.
If the magic is not experienced as a reality, the magician is
doing something wrong. The difference between magic and mentalism
is after the performance. When magic is analysed, people realise
it must be trickery, when mentalism is analysed after the
performance, many people will still believe it to be genuine. I
think during the performance of the effect both are believed just
as much, and in that sense there is no difference.
Kind regards, Tommy..
Msg #118 Dated 15:41:50 04-15-91 109 <--> 129
From: TABBY CRABB
To: GENO MUNARI (X)
Re: OSE MUNARI'S PASSING
Geno,
So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and those of my family
are with you at this time.
tabman
Msg #119 Dated 15:51:58 04-15-91 80 <--> 120
From: STAN LAKE
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
When I reviewed the tape just after the train was covered I could see
the p of the train under the tarp rise up a bit. This would allow the
train itself to be moved while appearing to be stationary.
Msg #120 Dated 15:56:46 04-15-91 94 <--> 126
From: RICHARD HART
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Heck, I spent a thousand time that just practicing tearing the centers
out of three cards to do the linking card effect. You get calloused in
the strangest places...
Msg #121 Dated 15:59:20 04-15-91 83 <-
From: STAN LAKE
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: JAMES LEWIS AT THE CASTLE
I save my copies of the Castle newsletter that contains the lineup of
shows for the coming months. When I see new performers I rate them
according to how much I enjoyed them so the next time they are
scheduled I know whether or not I should go out of my way to see them
again. James Lewis rates a definite 10 with me and I'll be sure to see
him whenever he returns!
Msg #124 Dated 16:37:35 04-15-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAGIC-NL
Re: BELIEF
-----------------------------------------------------------------
TO: TOMMY WONDER
SUBJ: BELIEF IN MAGIC
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Read your thoughts on belief and agree that at the moment
the magic actually happens disbelief in the spectator is
suspended and for that one or perhaps two moments they do believe
that you can change a red card to a blue, etc.
A problem comes up with some mentalists and bizarre magick
workers when they get taken in by their own press and persona
that they start believing it themselves. If this happens as in
the case of Uri Geller intellectual communities can get taken.
And in the case of Conan Doyle believing that Houdini actually
dematerialized to accomplish his escapes. Good press, but I guess
Conan Doyle's ghost must feel pretty stupid by now.
Most people know it isn't real, but they enjoy the feeling
of momentary belief. Perhaps it's a way to recapture in part the
childlike feeling of wonder.
tabman
Msg #125 Dated 16:38:48 04-15-91 -> 132
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: BECKY BLANEY ON NATL TV
Wanted to let everybody know that BECKY BLANEY, daughter
of Walter Zaney Blaney, will be working RICK DEE's INTO THE NIGHT
tomorrow night - Tuesday Apr 16. Becky just called me from Bill
Smith's and I didn't get a chance to ask him what stuff he built
for Copperfield. Next time, maybe.
Watch Beck on tv tomorrow night. She has worked hard to
get to this point in her career and luck has nothing to do with
it.
Msg #126 Dated 18:13:20 04-15-91 106 <--> 127
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I'll hve to look it up. But the routine is a KILLER. The set up is
you enter and note the table is not steady.... you bring out a
carpenter's level and level the table by stuffing a folded up playing
card under one leg. Then you do some magic, and one trick is a torn
card with corner... you can't find it.... suddenly you say "The last
place to look is under the table leg.... etc. etc. IT IS THE CARD ADN
THE CORNER MATCHES. I just forget the name of the effect as marketed.
It my be in a Joe Stevens' Genii ad. Will look later.
Msg #127 Dated 18:13:26 04-15-91 95 <--> 128
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I've watched the tape several times. I believe he switched it b
very cleverly and very fast. He forced the $D
4D by sliding it to the position where she had here finger. I seem to
remeber seeing this force somewhere.
Then the card was set up outside with a variation of the TV card frame.
It could happen...
Msg #128 Dated 18:15:43 04-15-91 111 <--> 134
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I just walked in the door and turned jon the computer. Have not got to
the VCR yet. Also the answering machine. Two messages of IMPORTANCE.
One, I have a pic coming out on a magazine cover. Other message, EX
WIFE ROLLED MY GOOD CAR!
Msg #129 Dated 18:18:03 04-15-91 109 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: GENO MUNARI (X)
Re: OSE MUNARI'S PASSING
My condolences Geno. Thank you for the information... she must have
been a terrific lady!!!!
Msg #130 Dated 18:18:58 04-15-91 110 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: DISH STUFF
I have to check out all the systems. Kodak seems to be the best
quality. Sony has a video imager. The difference is Kodak uses a Nikon
F3 camera and IS NOT VIDEO. Mac II computer is used to recieve and
Adobe Photoshop for retouching, etc. The 40K is for all the stuff,
scanners, both end sending and receiving equipment, computer, printer.
Msg #131 Dated 18:21:12 04-15-91 104 <--> 133
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: OPENING DAY
I will be phoning later tonight (Monday). Happy taxes! By the way, i've
already managed to cash my refund check...
Msg #132 Dated 18:21:56 04-15-91 125 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: BECKY BLANEY ON NATL TV
Hope I am here and TV works. Oh, tabb... got the floppy disk. Tanks.
I have a tv project to work on, let you know more when I get the reply
from the producer.
Msg #133 Dated 18:23:05 04-15-91 131 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: OPENING DAY
What's a refund? They didn't raise taxes, they just lowered the bridge!
Msg #134 Dated 19:31:03 04-15-91 112 <--> 135
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I think he moved the furniture for BLOCKING purposes. Either for
practical blocking, because a train compartment is tiny and there's not
much room for a camera to maneuver, OR it was simply an artistic
blocking, keeping the people and the things in the frame moving as much
as possible.
The real thinking that leads me to this conclusion is the same -- if
you were David Copperfield, and were shooting a network special
surrounded by a crew of twenty to thirty high-paid professionals,
would you ask one of them to observe his actions on a monitor, or would
you insist on moving the furniture as a signal?
Msg #135 Dated 19:34:15 04-15-91 119 <--> 136
From: EVAN KATZ
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Well, clearly the train was moved before the tarp was raised. The
train has to have been moved some point between the time the tarp
obscured it completely, and before it raised up. I'll bet if you look
at the tape, you'll notice there's a good period of time between those
two events.
I retierate (and also don't claim originality for the solution) There
are six directions the train can go. or down, left or right, forward
or back. Nothing but the wire frame inside the tarp went up; it didn't
go n; it didn't go left or right; and it didn't come forward at us.
The leaves one direction and one direction only. Got it?
Msg #136 Dated 19:37:47 04-15-91 127 <--> 137
From: EVAN KATZ
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I don't think he forced the card AND switched the corner. Too much
work, and if you're forcing a card anyway, why not gaff it up to make
your work easier?
I agree with the TV card frame analogy. I think the effect is
basically simple -- he forced a gaffed card, and had some techinical
aparatus which put the corner on the window. Whatch think?
Msg #137 Dated 20:00:41 04-15-91 128 <--> 138
From: RICHARD HART
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Better than your good wife rolling your ex-car!
Msg #138 Dated 20:02:09 04-15-91 135 <--> 140
From: RICHARD HART
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
This assumes that the audience circle was broken to let the car out.
I think the car was raised up beneath the form, and was then drawn back
over the heads of the audience in the rear while the form was moved
over the heads of the spectators in the front of the circle. I have to
believe that the reason the car wasn't covered in the rear, was to
leave an escape route open for the car. The reason I believe it went
up, is that the ceiling provided a great "black art" area to cover the
removal of the car... Just a guess. Do you think the car really
weighed 140,000 lbs?
Msg #140 Dated 20:49:21 04-15-91 135 <--> 141
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
See a message I am posting shortly.
Msg #141 Dated 20:50:08 04-15-91 136 <--> 142
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
How else? The handling (his hand positions) were stiff, and gave it
away to me. The hand covered the corner that he ripped off (pre torn
and re-glued on) and the position of his hand springing the cards
covered the gaff -- probably someone outside slapping the card with
spray glue onto the window watching on a monitor outside. Hey, it was
his train car!
Msg #142 Dated 20:52:08 04-15-91 137 <--> 143
From: PETE BIRO
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
YO!
Msg #143 Dated 20:52:38 04-15-91 138 <--> 145
From: PETE BIRO
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
No... the car went out on the tracks. When he did the jet plane they
just rolled it straigt out.h
The ceiling design and location of all the lights was to hide the form.
Do you have any idea how big a crane set up would be required to lift
a train car!!!!!!!!!!! So why lift it when it is designed to roll!!
You had to lift the cloth and it was IN THE WAY "up, forward, backward
and to the left -- and OPEN -- to the right (as viewed) the right
direction, actually to the rear of the train aimed right out at a black
hole with bright lights to maske it. Only a handfull of the audience
had to be stooges. What is more important than the method is the
presentation and the idea to do it in the first place!
Msg #144 Dated 20:55:54 04-15-91 -> 148
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: COPPERFIELD
OK... finally had a moment to view the David Copperfield special
with the VANISH of the hugemongous rail car!
What I can't figure is why so much speculation about the card on
the outside of the Train Window. It is obviously not a catalog
item and it isn't likely to find its way into any of OUR shows!
After all, those of us here on MAGIC! prefer the airline version,
right!
I particularly liked the routine with the card and the balloon.
David has taken the old squeeker routine to the limit too.
His handling with people shows just how good a performer he has
become. The tissue to rose sequence was fabulous. Premise,
handling, etc. All Great. The Whit Haydn (linking ring) premise
in a rope routine certainly plays well.
The levitation over water has to be the best PRESENTED floating
lady ever. I really liked Andre Kole's "beheading" -- well done.
Don't know where the card in balloon comes from but it reeks
either Sankey or Weber. Anyone know?
The rail car was incredibly produced and executed. No problem on
the method.
Didn't those of you guessing see the "deceptive steps" at the far
end of the car? You see they held (internally) the parts of one
of Anverdi's electronic tables. Push of a button and off the car
rolls down the track!
I know, you think it was a pull. It was!
Doesn't matter. One of (if not THE) best shows yet. Great stuff,
great set design, costuming, props, balance of big vs. small
magic.
DC is a star performer for sure!
Msg #145 Dated 21:07:18 04-15-91 138 <--> 146
From: EVAN KATZ
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I think the car weighed quite a bit -- but I know from reading (maybe
here) that it wasn't a genuine Orient Express car. In which case they
probably made it weigh as little as possible.
Re the method -- why have it go back over the audience's heads? Why
assume that there would be any problem with having the circle of people
broken?
Msg #146 Dated 21:09:40 04-15-91 141 <--> 147
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I agree completely. It's easy to over-think these things. In fact,
Copperfield thinks like everyone else -- he wants to do it in the
easiest manner possible.
Msg #147 Dated 21:10:54 04-15-91 143 <--> 152
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I thought it went straight back. And in either case, all the audience
members would have to be stooges -- I'm sure the trick was done in a
number of takes, and that the angles would not have been good at all
for anyone standing there. I'm sure all the people there were made to
sign strict disclosure forms, etc...
Msg #148 Dated 21:13:14 04-15-91 144 <--> 181
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
Ballon effect by Sankey. In his first book.
Msg #149 Dated 21:13:29 04-15-91
From: EVAN KATZ
To: ALL
Re: GARRETT TAPE
Just viewed the Dan Garrett videotape, "Close-up Connivery." It's got
many excellent things on it. Highlights for me were an excellent
linking safety pin routine. After viewing the performance part of the
routine, and are then told it is not gaffed, you'll be bowled over. No
key pin is used. A example of superior routining is his "Hand
Sandwich," a neat effect that starts out with a few ambitious card
moves, then segues into a signed card penetrating a spectator's hand!
A really neat and not ridiculously difficult SPELLBOUND is my third
favorite, and Garrett's ring and rope routine is a fine finale.
Great tape!
Msg #152 Dated 21:58:19 04-15-91 143 <--> 153
From: RICHARD HART
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
To be sure, rolling the car out the hole, would require 1/2 the
spectators to be stooges. Those on the back (uncovered) side of the
car would also see it leave. I'm not so sure about this method.
Firstly, if the car HAD been rolled off the tracks, the wake would have
rippled the cover significantly. Also, I don't believe there would
have been enough _time_ to accelerate the car down the track before the
cover lifted in the air. I'd like to know what building they shot this
in. How do we know there weren't overhead crane units (like for
lifting cargo OFF flatcars, that could've been used to haul the car up?
Puzzling, no?
Msg #153 Dated 22:05:49 04-15-91 145 <--> 155
From: RICHARD HART
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
You have a point there, Evan. I'd just like to believe that the circle
WAS unbroken. Damn, somebody get D.C. on this board!
Msg #155 Dated 23:12:19 04-15-91 71 <--> 158
From: JERRY BURTON
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Good point, except I think the timing was critical enough that he would
have to have some control over the planting of the card. There was a
one second window of opportuniy. Of course if the switch operator were
looking at a monitor he would know the proper time to hit the button.
In any case it wasn't your standard parlour trick.
Burton the Bizarre
Msg #157 Dated 23:44:14 04-15-91 85 <-
From: JERRY BURTON
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: MAGIC COLLECTORS' WEEKEND
How much for the Burger book, I'm a real fan of his work.
Burton the Bizzare
Msg #158 Dated 23:45:20 04-15-91 95 <--> 163
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
There is evidence for either theory. The "windows" between David's
fingers support the pre-scored idea. The movement of his thumb behind
the card, at exactly the right moment, supports the switch. Either
way, it was BEAUTIFULLY done.
By the way, a slightly different version of the force he used can be
found as the fourth card force in Annemann's "202 Methods of Forcing"
(New York: Max Holden, 1933).
Msg #159 Dated 23:48:47 04-15-91 -> 263
From: KEVIN MEADOR
To: ALL
Re: HENNING COLLECTABLES
I'm looking for some Doug Henning Video Tapes of his TV Specials,
especially his last two or three. Need some help guys let me know if
you would be interested in trading or selling a copy, THANKS!
Msg #161 Dated 23:52:07 04-15-91 102 <-
From: JERRY BURTON
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DMS
Anytime, anyplace in Vegas is great with me. Hopefully, we can make the
closeup event as good for those of us that prefer closeup over stage,
as the DMS does for the stage guys (does that make any sense ??). I
plan to tell as many people as possible about the Closeup Conjuring
event and hope we can make it an annual affair (hopefully it will stay
small and intimate as that was what made it so much fun).
Burton the Bizzare
Msg #163 Dated 0:05:56 04-16-91 143 <--> 164
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Actually, the car had foam rubber wheels and was counterweighted...
Oops, wrong special! BUT I do think that the vanish WAS a parody on
the Penn & Teller bit - after all, wouldn't one keep JELLY DONUTS in
the DINING car? And "140,000 lbs." is EXACTLY DOUBLE the weight of
their truck!
Msg #164 Dated 0:09:01 04-16-91 153 <--> 166
From: EVAN KATZ
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I really doubt the car went up -- mostly because we would have_seen_ it
if it had -- we had a good view of the roof of the hangar.
Everyone seems to not want to admit that Copperfield isn't playing by
the same rules we all are -- that he wouldn't accomplish an effect with
the use of stooges, that he would not want to use the help of an
assistant in triggering the card on window... This thinking all strikes
me as wrong. Is it such a far throw from using lighting and stage
subterfuge in the water leviation, to using other kind of lighting and
camera tricks?
The reason we have all been so FOOLED is the inclusion of a lot of
genuine audience footage. I'm talking about the illusions that were
filmed as part of his normal show. But the rest of the show was NOT
done in front of an audience. And why in the world would someone who
was NOT shooting in front of a live audience want to impose the same
kind of strickt conditions on themselves that they would face if the
audience were there? The OPPORTUNE thing to do, if not the most
elegant, is to take advantage of every opportunity! Hire a hundred
stooges for the big illusion! Have a crew of five make sure the card
gets on the window! Do it in five or ten or fifteen takes!
Don't get me wrong, I don't think there's anything unethical about it.
It's just that in analyzing his effects, we have to realize that a
Copperfield special is an inherently different medium than any other
performing situation most of us are used to.
I wish there were more big specials on television like the Copperfield
extravaganzas. More big specials with less disco crap, though.
Msg #165 Dated 0:07:49 04-16-91 117 <-
From: JERRY BURTON
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: BRUCE RUDOLPH
I agree with you, you can see it in their eyes. They experience what
the psychologists call 'cognitive disonance'. They just witnessed
something that CAN'T happen - but did ! They will go to great lengths
to explain how it happened (note the dialogue on Copperfields 'Card on
Window', we are all going nuts trying to explain how he did it). Many
people will be content with 'it was just a trick' and leave it at that,
others can't stand not knowing how it was done and become magicians
themselves.
Thanks for sending the match boxes. If you remember I met you at the
castle and mentioned that European boxes must be larger, since I was
having trouble making the 'lighter to match box' effect you showed at
DMS in 89. I really appreciate your kindness - I owe you a drink next
time you are in town.
Burton the Bizzare
Msg #166 Dated 0:17:10 04-16-91 155 <--> 177
From: EVAN KATZ
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
IF an operator were looking at a monitor? I've been on a bunch of
sets, and there are NORMALLY a dozen people studying the action froma
monitor, live, etc... The only reason Copperfield would have hit the
switch himself wold be if he had a desire to do so simply BECAUSE...
And if he wanted to hit the switch himself, he has the budget and
expertise to make that switch COMPLETELY indetectable.
Msg #177 Dated 11:26:55 04-16-91 158 <--> 178
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
The selection control looked like Hofsinzer's spread control. The most
recent
write up I've seen is in Mike Ammar's ARCANE issue of MAJ. Also it's
worth
a look at Allan Ackerman's "Here's my card".
Didn't it look like David tried to cover the torn piece until it was
revealed?
I vote for the pre-torn method discussed here with the real match on
the
outside. How it got there I haven't a clue.
Actually, I thoroughly enjoyed the entire show especially his use of
THREE volunteers. Everyone seemed to enjoy his interaction with them.
One nice touch he could have used with the train car(d)s might have
been
to bring up the lights on the Dining Car in the background of the
window
when the card was revealed. But then, that might look like a prediction
instead of a "free" choice. Any opinions?
David (the other one)
Msg #178 Dated 12:11:58 04-16-91 152 <--> 179
From: PETE BIRO
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
How do you lift ANYTHING through the cloth and the form? No way. Rail
cars are so well balanced that a man can get one rolling if it is
level. don't make it complicated.
Msg #179 Dated 12:12:46 04-16-91 153 <--> 180
From: PETE BIRO
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Why get DC on the board? He won't tip his methods. He don't gots to.
We can speculate and have all the fun we want. But think SIMPLE. The
train is on a track. The track leads to a black shape with bright
lights shining. The spectators are hired hands. It doesn't matter. It
is promotable, it is entertaining and it is good TV. And David does it
better than anyone else PERIOD.
Msg #180 Dated 12:14:41 04-16-91 155 <--> 184
From: PETE BIRO
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
It was a parlour car. I understand you can order the whole trick, train
car, fake moving background (less Jane Seymour) from Abbotts. How many
of you saw Abbott's factory out the window of the train as it went
through Colon, Michigan?
Msg #181 Dated 12:17:45 04-16-91 148 <--> 188
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
What is the title ofankey's first book? Thanks in advance.
Msg #184 Dated 13:16:30 04-16-91 177 <--> 189
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Hows Vegas. Try turning your margins on your word processor dorwn to
about 68-70 char wide since the MAGIC! messages are less than 80 col
wide and see if it doesn't make a difference. Hope to see you at the
Close-up Conclave there in late fall or winter.
Msg #186 Dated 14:07:34 04-16-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: COLLECTOR'S WEEKEND
Charlie,
Don't forget me next year. That sounds like a great
weekend. All those books and bookmen in one spot. Several really
good conventions around the USA and thats one of them. Thanks for
giving me a call from the "floor" and checking on me. Am excited
about the book. I've got all the editions (that I know about) but
that one, and signed by Okito too.
Thanks for the write up on the event. Put me on H&R's
list next year if you can.
tabman
Msg #188 Dated 15:17:15 04-16-91 181 <--> 195
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
"Sankey Pankey," and it was published by Kaufmann and Greenberg in
1986. The routine, "Airtight," is on pg 106, and is move for move the
same to the Copperfield performance, as far as I can tell.
Not sure if the book is in print or not, as a bunch of Kaufmann
books just fell out of print. The flyer he sent around for Eugene
Berger's new book lists what's in and what's not. Should be possible
to find a copy either way.
EK
Msg #189 Dated 16:16:55 04-16-91 184 <--> 201
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Sorry about the margins. I'm using a laptop without an editor rithg
now and it doesn't set margins the same. I hope to be at the Closeup
conv. as soon as I hear where and when.
I'm in Tucson now and plan to attend their IBM meeting later tonight.
Can't wait to get home on my usual machine.
Later,
David
Msg #190 Dated 16:26:08 04-16-91
From: BRUCE SANDERCOCK
To: ALL
Re: DALLAS VISIT
I will be in the Dallas area this coming April 24th thru 29th, and
would appreciate being made aware of any Magical happenings taking
place in the Metroplex. Any I.B.M. or S.A.M. meetings?
Msg #195 Dated 18:12:04 04-16-91 188 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
Thanks a ton. I don't need a book to know the modus operandi, like all
the other stuff on the TV show, I have 'em figured out. Just wanted to
know if it was in print. Since it is I might work on doing it.
Can't find the book in my library, so will scout for one. Altho I might
have ordered it recently. Been starting to lose my, er, ah, memory of
late. Tanks!
Msg #197 Dated 18:14:33 04-16-91
From: PETE BIRO
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: BOOX FOR BUX?
Chaas.... I have lost my messages. I must owe you some money? Yoiu must
owe me some boox? Let me know. Tanks.
Msg #200 Dated 18:50:10 04-16-91 -> 212
From: STEVE BRYANT
To: ALL
Re: CARD ON WINDOW
OK, I've been holding this idea back, but here is my
thought on the card on the window. My theory is that
the card is already stuck to the glass, and the glass
slides up (from the base or sill area). Something like
the sliding glass or mirror in a penetration frame.
Supporting this theory is how David opens the window
after the card's appearance. This is a WIDE window,
probably heavy. He merely touches it with his
flattened hand and the thing GLIDES up at his touch.
* *
Three great magazines arrived yesterday -- GENII, Jim
Sisti's MAGIC MENU (super issue, Jim), and SEANCE.
Sorry to report, to those I had promised, that my
Cassadega piece didn't appear. Don't know why yet.
BUT . . . this was one of the best issues of SEANCE
yet, especially with the lowdown on Leo Kostka's in-
home seance routine. He does this as a KID SHOW as
well as for adults. If you are at all interested in
this sort of thing, I recommend you send Scott Davis 6
bucks and ask for the Spring 1991 issue (19 Clovelly
Street, Suite 1308, Pikesville, MD 21208).
Msg #201 Dated 18:55:28 04-16-91 177 <--> 207
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I've been watching that tape and I could almost swear I
see a hand and part of an arm behind the window as DC is
springing the cards toward the glass. There's a little shadow off
to the left just as he finishes the card spring. Maybe thatz why
he pushes the lamp over I don't know. I do know that train ain't
moving while they were having before dinner card magic. Black
Art on the outside? Pretorn card with some super glue or possibly
small dots of card still attached?
Pete's right about the train car if balanced and
lubricated could be easily set into motion by everybody behind
the car or maybe a pull (seriously) like he said. An old P&L,
only this time it stands for Penna and Lakawanna RR. He's right,
thats the only place it coulda gone. It looked great on tv, boy.
When that drape started rising I had to laugh. He really took the
Asrah into a new dimension.
Trick I've heard the most comment on from liety is
Maven's Mind Games. He makes a 60 jillion train car float and
vanish into thin, probably polluted air and all they talk about
is the RR Car Cards. Where do you get a pack of those things
anyway?
Msg #202 Dated 18:56:56 04-16-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: STEVE BRYANT (X)
Re: MAGIC MENU
Well, I got the Genii but no Magic Menu yet. I'm gonna have to move
someplace where they get their mail sooner.
Msg #204 Dated 19:20:46 04-16-91
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: ALL
Re: TRAIN TRICKERY
- Messages to/from US ------------------------------ LOCAL008 -
Msg : 151 of 151 Loc
From : Arnaud Van.Rietschoten 16 Apr 91 19:36:00
To : Magic-Us
Subj : Train Magic
----------------------------------------------------------------
I read that Train Magic is a new trend in magic.
.
A few years ago an English Magic show, hosted by Geremy Beadle,
also showed a very interested train illusion.
A train with, say, 12 wagons drove into a tunnel. And only 11
wagons came out of it.
The whole happening was shown in ONE camera shot. A camera was
mounted at the back of the train, and that picture was
continuously show in a corner of the TV screen. The
disappearing wagon was marked, and when the train came out of the
tunnel that wagon was gone.
.
The effect came over very impressive to me. Really look forward
to see Copperfield's TrainTrickery.
.
Arnaud
Msg #207 Dated 21:03:20 04-16-91 201 <--> 211
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
What you see in the window, if you freeze frame and study are the
reflections of DCs cards in hand and his white sleeve cuff. NOTHING is
given away in the shot. It could be several ways, including the old
CHROMAKEY.... the outside terrain, etc. can be keyed in, and the card
can be masked w/blue and the mask pulled away. That would be the
easiest. All via computer!!!! Think about that modus op.
Wonder how many people have had to wipe greasy fingerprints off their
tv screens!
Msg #211 Dated 22:39:26 04-16-91 207 <--> 215
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Almost 100% percent positive the window in the train car was not
chromakeyed or matted in any way. Both processes have a "look," no
matter how well executed.
Msg #212 Dated 22:43:32 04-16-91 200 <-
From: EVAN KATZ
To: STEVE BRYANT (X)
Re: CARD ON WINDOW
I think the sliding glass theory is as good as any -- certainly it's
COMPLETELY indetectable, as opposed to some of the other options
discussed, which are merely mosty indetectable. The window opening
easily, I think, however, is indicative of nothing more than a good
lubricating job. With a million dollar plus budget, a TV crew doesn't
want to waste takes on Copperfield having trouble with the window!
Msg #213 Dated 22:45:27 04-16-91 -> 222
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
David--
Do you plan to have any MAGIC! presence at the one day convention
in Los Angeles, "Day of Magic?" Also would be curious to poll who's
gonna be among the illustrious BBS'ers.
Msg #214 Dated 22:44:46 04-16-91
From: BRUCE SANDERCOCK
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: MAGIC OF POLYNESIA
Arrived back earlt this
morningly
1. Arrived back early thus
2. from Waikiki. Had the pleasure of seeing the above show at the
Hilton dome where Don Ho holds fort for all the elderly ladies.
Unfortunately , Ho holds prime time for his antics while forcing the
Magic Show to perform at 6:30PM. Excellent presentations with unique
and personal twists to most of the standards. This show could be picked
up as is, dropped into a Vegas Hotel, and sell out every night. The
beach also has it's attractions. Will I see you at the Castle on
Friday?
Msg #215 Dated 0:41:25 04-17-91 177 <--> 217
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Is David left handed? The spread is a reverse - that is, he fans the
bottom from his left hand to his right. Not really all that easy
(initially) for a right handed person. Will have to check the
references you mentioned. Guess I was with a Hofzinser expert all of
this evening - Richard Hatch - but we never got to that particular
spread. The force described in Annemann uses a more conventional
spread from the top, but it leaves the "dirty work" to be done at the
end. David's version with a reverse spread is harder to do, but the
"dirty work" is much cleaner.
I notice that no-one has commented on the card-case bit. Too easy?
Msg #217 Dated 0:48:30 04-17-91 207 <--> 231
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Whatever he did, it was absolutely superb! Here are some of the finest
minds in magic watching the tape frame by frame and it still looks
good! OK, OK, so maybe there were ten takes - the guy did a GREAT job
on this special.
Msg #222 Dated 1:13:20 04-17-91 213 <--> 265
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
I plan to TRY to be there - but right now have a very busy schedule.
Would also be interested in knowing if others will attend - I'm sure
that Darrell Murphy will.
Msg #223 Dated 1:14:46 04-17-91 -> 224
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC CASTLE
If you want to see some magic beautifully done, go see RICHARD HATCH
perform this week in the Early Parlour show at the Castle. Richard is
the "H" in "H&R Books." Not only a nice guy, Richard is a GREAT
performer. At several points in his show there were audible gasps from
the audience - and more than once, 'cause I stayed to see it twice and
it happened both times.
My notes are more cryptic than I thought, but among other things,
Richard did a "coins from atmosphere" production similar to a Miner's
Dream. Very, very nice and clean. He then passed a coin star through
his body. As a set-up for his cups and balls routine, he produced the
balls and the wand from a small purse - very nice! The cups and balls,
done standing, was extremely well executed (a number of the audience
gasps were here) and ended with the production of 4 lemons. It was
flawless. He followed this with a Malini egg bag. Then did
Hofzinger's "Everywhere and Nowhere." He concluded with a broken and
restored thread (a la Burger).
His effects were PERFECT. But the really great thing was his
performance and his brilliant patter.
---------------------
Alas, from the sublime, we descend to the rediculous. Who booked T. C.
Tahoe for the Palace? Apparently a last minute idea as his name did
not appear on the original schedule. Are we THAT despirate? He did a
passable linking rings and delivered one good line about the "Big
Flying Pig," but otherwise it was pathetic comedy. When is someone
gonna remember that the place is named the MAGIC Castle? Not the
Museum of Contemporary Art and NOT the Comedy Club??? If I want to
hang out with bozzos, there are plenty of places in L.A. to do that.
CHERI SOLEIL did a VERY GOOD mentalism act. Good effects and very good
delivery. She handed a rubber-banded deck around the entire audience
and let about six people select cards by looking at them. She then
promptly named all the cards. Then she selected an audience member by
throwing a wad of paper over her shoulder. Whoever caught it joined
her on stage. She asked them their favorite color and then had them
open the wad of paper - yep, written on it was the same color. She
then did a three-book effect that was very nice. The audience seemed
to really enjoy her. The curtain closed and out came Dum-dum again
with some remark about mentalism. Yeah, thanks, Dum-dum.
CHRIS BROUGHTON is a young magician trying hard. He did a "homeboy"
act, and some other bits, along with some large illusions. A bit of
promise, but needs work.
Still wish they served late night sandwiches.
Msg #224 Dated 1:42:59 04-17-91 223 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC CASTLE
In addition to the scheduled performers this evening, MARTIN NASH was
doing a few things at one of the corner tables. Rumor has it he is
working on a book - due out in about a year. And JAMES LEWIS was
entertaining visitors downstairs. Glad Richard Hatch got a chance to
see him even if he didn't have his glass table with him.
Msg #229 Dated 6:01:08 04-17-91
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: ALL
Re: RICHARD HATCH
Richard ask me to pass on the message that any of you LA guys (or
ladies) introduce yourself to him at the Castle. He's looking forward
to meeting ALL of you. He's a real nice guy and I think you'll enjoy
his show.
Charlie
Msg #231 Dated 7:20:30 04-17-91 211 <--> 232
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
OK, just a suggested train of thought.... ACTUALLY METHOD MEANS NOTHING
HERE there are SO MANY WAYS to do it on a TV show.
Msg #232 Dated 7:21:34 04-17-91 215 <--> 233
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
It was a Who Cares effect. I think the force is easier when you use a
hired actress to take a card. I did note, however, the quality of the
cards was the 99-cent variety! I kept looking for the torn card laying
on the table. Hah.
Msg #233 Dated 7:22:53 04-17-91 217 <--> 240
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
No question... GREAT! But had he hired US it wuld be grater.
Msg #235 Dated 8:05:27 04-17-91 -> 267
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: 2400 B
Just installed new modem and wanted to test it out. OK.
Msg #236 Dated 8:15:45 04-17-91
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: WHAT YOU SED
All I know about the weekend was that it was in Maryland, it was wet,
and it was cold!
It was beyond upper Marlboro next Coom Airfield (I think!). I don't
believe I was anywhere near you. It was a good training program but
horrible conditions to learn anything.
I should have known that you also did scouting....even OA. I notice
you didn't mention your rank. Scouting is great for kids, all three of
mine are in either cubs or girl scouts, but it takes a lot of time to
be an adult leader. However, I do enjoy working with them and having
a chance to get 'em outside.
Msg #237 Dated 8:21:44 04-17-91 93 <--> 238
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: REGIONAL MAGIC
Well...the late great Slydini started the fast magic with sugar
packets, etc. (grin)
With regard to the MAGIC! session at Baltimore...yes...that is when I
have it scheduled...mainly because it was one of the few open slots
left. As a matter of fact, I am about to upload the entire Baltimore
schedule for MAGIC! users. This will not appear in the Linking Ring
until the June issue so all you guys are getting an early look. The
file will be named IBM91. Look it over and if you see an open slot you
like better than the one are in let me know and we will talk it over.
Msg #238 Dated 8:26:21 04-17-91 80 <--> 256
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: OREO AUDITIONS
They don't use Faxes anymore...they use bag that are scented. The
hounds don't know the difference.
Msg #239 Dated 8:28:14 04-17-91 94 <--> 241
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC/TRAINS/PEANUTS
Exactly! In so many cases, success hinges on how successfully all the
details are dealt with.
Msg #240 Dated 8:26:07 04-17-91 215 <--> 253
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Yes I think he is left handed. I also nboticed the spread was
accomplished off camera, almost as if someone set it up for him and
handed him the spread.
The card case bit is nice! Also from Ammar. He shows it in his lecture
and on some of his videos.
Thanks for replying, I thought I was talking to myself as sometimes I
never get any response!
David (the other one)
Msg #241 Dated 8:30:39 04-17-91 83 <--> 268
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC/TRAINS/PEANUTS
Maybe we can look forward to Kim's Boiled Goobers.
Msg #242 Dated 8:32:45 04-17-91 95 <--> 257
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC IN BRUNSWICK
But just think how well those scholars will eat!
Msg #243 Dated 8:36:59 04-17-91 -> 274
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGIC
Dear Taberius -
Just remember where the first peanuts were grown in this here
country!! As a matter of fact...just remember where this whole thing
started! IN fact...at one time the whole place was Virginia! (grin)
I figured I might get a little rise outa some others with my boiled
peanuts remark....but note that I didn't include Virginia in the loci
of roadside stands!
While I am addressing myself to food items...let me tell you that when
it comes to "putting things to rest" you might have a promising career
as a motivational epitaph writter....
...or I could say your epistles epitomize efficacious epithets...
...but I won't.
I got to go digest the rest of your message and get back to you later
or the telephone company is gonna own me....how the hell did you know
about me and VMI??
WAW
Msg #244 Dated 8:43:36 04-17-91 101 <--> 245
From: BILL WELLS
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: OUR MAGIC GOVERNMENT
I haven't specifically asked, but I believe it is about where getting
a magic stamp has been for the past many years....lost at the bottom of
a highly political and big group backed stack of stamp proposals. This
was probably the best effort ever conducted but I don't believe that
success is yet in sight.
Msg #245 Dated 8:45:45 04-17-91 79 <--> 459
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: OUR MAGIC GOVERNMENT
Where do these strange messages (voices) come from?? They keep popping
up out of the Biro.
Msg #246 Dated 8:47:14 04-17-91 77 <--> 275
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
I await with some degree of interest!
Msg #247 Dated 8:48:05 04-17-91 59 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BRUCE RUDOLPH
I am feeling for you, but I can't quite reach you!
Msg #249 Dated 8:53:50 04-17-91 79 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MO BS
Sorry....I thought my monitor was blurring the messages sideways...I
guess it was the time of day....or maybe I read it during the annual
bloodletting when everything looked blurred!
(I really did miss it!!!)
Msg #253 Dated 11:38:16 04-17-91 232 <--> 254
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Hey, maybe a guy like you, who can perform 203 forces, doesn't care,
but I thought it was a neat force for use in real life. Properly done
it appears pretty clean. Some of us need stuff like that!
Msg #254 Dated 11:40:41 04-17-91 233 <--> 255
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Hmmmm... "Grater..." - "a device to cause irritation that [grates] on
the nerves..." (modified from Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary). Is
that from your forthcoming book "Son of Grater Magic"?
Speaking of which, Stan Allen has a nice ring grater effect called
"Clean Sweep" that appeared in his "Inside Allen" lecture notes. His
description starts with "A spectator's ring is rubbed between the
performer's fingertips until only a pile of gold dust remains on the
table." But it could also be done with a ring grater.
Msg #255 Dated 11:55:39 04-17-91 240 <--> 264
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Damn! Everytime I think I have the whole effect memorized, you hit me
with something! Still, he DID do the actual force, and it was a
perfectly fair force that could be done anywhere by anyone.
Msg #256 Dated 11:58:37 04-17-91 237 <--> 335
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: REGIONAL MAGIC
OK. And THANKS for uploading the schedule! Really great idea. Will
be looking at it in a few moments.
Msg #257 Dated 12:00:32 04-17-91 242 <--> 262
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC IN BRUNSWICK
Good point! I hadn't worried about the health and well-being of the
scholars. Imagine how that recipe will enhance their diets!
Msg #261 Dated 13:01:05 04-17-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: IBM '91 SCHEDULE
Bill Wells has been kind enough to upload the schedule for the IBM
Convention in Baltimore. As a result, MAGIC! members are able to look
at it MONTHS before it will appear in print.
The schedule is in the files area as IBM91.TXT
Thanks Bill!
Msg #262 Dated 13:24:06 04-17-91 88 <--> 273
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC IN BRUNSWICK
I like it Pete. Keep them coming!!!!
Msg #263 Dated 13:48:40 04-17-91 159 <--> 411
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: KEVIN MEADOR (X)
Re: HENNING COLLECTABLES
I have most of the Henning TV specials as well as the Cooperfield
specials with the exception of THE LAST ONE. I DON'T BELIEVE I MISSED
IT!!!!!!!!! To add insult to injury I have to read 10,000 messages
about how GREEEEEAT the show was!!!!
Maybe we can work out a deal
Msg #264 Dated 13:55:45 04-17-91 180 <--> 269
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Did you by any chance happen to catch the address Pete??
Msg #265 Dated 13:59:01 04-17-91 213 <--> 278
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
I will be at the "DAY-OF-MAGIC". In fact I just mailed my check off the
other day to secure my spot.
Msg #267 Dated 15:01:17 04-17-91 235 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: 2400 B
I did not get your new modem message. HONEST!
Msg #268 Dated 15:02:46 04-17-91 241 <--> 338
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC/TRAINS/PEANUTS
Boil 'em up Bwana. Working on my travel sked maybe to Balt 6/24?
To go to Fism (or europe) is it easy to get to DC to fly over? What is
best way?
Msg #269 Dated 15:03:58 04-17-91 253 <--> 270
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I dig. Best force I use (when I don't want to miss) is the cut force.
Or the Koran force. (Actually a one way deck is best, or a rough/smooth
svengali.
Msg #270 Dated 15:04:58 04-17-91 254 <--> 271
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I have a ring grater (honest)! Part of my act and lecture! Also the gat
goes, You think that is great this is grater (and you hold up a cheese
grater)arrrrrrgggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhh.
Msg #271 Dated 15:05:54 04-17-91 255 <--> 272
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
The Force be with you.
Msg #272 Dated 15:06:17 04-17-91 180 <--> 279
From: PETE BIRO
To: PETE BIRO
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
You suckered me in... I went B to see what my question was. RAT!!!!
Msg #273 Dated 15:07:05 04-17-91 262 <--> 336
From: PETE BIRO
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC IN BRUNSWICK
CREDIT MIKE ROGERS FOR THAT ONE
Msg #274 Dated 15:07:45 04-17-91 243 <--> 339
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC
Will you guys knock off the food stuff. I gained 10 lbs this year just
reading about it!
Msg #275 Dated 15:08:49 04-17-91 246 <--> 340
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
Got the tape, great show. Also taped , er taped the performance last
night of Becky Blaney on Rick Dees.
Msg #277 Dated 15:11:36 04-17-91 -> 283
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: JOKE FOR TABBY
What is the difference between an accordian and an onion?
I have never heard anyone cry when you chop up an accordian.
OR......
The difference between a French Horn Player and a Scud Missile?
They're both deadly, but the Scud is more accurate.
I don't get it, but the musicians I was with laffed for seven minutes.
Msg #278 Dated 15:54:28 04-17-91 222 <--> 284
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
My wife and I will both be there. As you may know, there will be 12
lectures but we only have time to see four of them. So we will
probably go to different lectures all day and compile our notes later.
I'm really looking forward to it and I hope to see some of our members
on Magic!
Msg #279 Dated 16:09:59 04-17-91 231 <--> 280
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Basically agree. But if the actual method _really_ means nothing, then
why are we all so interested!
Msg #280 Dated 16:17:35 04-17-91 269 <--> 281
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
By the "cut force," do you mean the "cross-cut" force? Jus' curious.
Msg #281 Dated 16:50:59 04-17-91 269 <--> 282
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I'm a fan (er, guess that could be a pun) of both the one-way deck and
the cut force. But the one Copperfield used is nice! The force I HATE
to use or see is the "I'll go thru the deck with my thumb and you say,
'Stop'" one - especially when the gag business about going thru fast
the first time and making the spectator look dumb bit is used. The
whole thing looks too hokey.
Msg #282 Dated 16:55:03 04-17-91 270 <--> 288
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Actually, I rather like that line! Recently I was thinking of a stage
illusion wherein the magician's assistant is lowered into a gigantic
meat grinder, the crank is turned by additional assistants in little
green elf suits, and a red pulpy mass comes out the front... But I
decided the world wasn't ready for it.
Msg #283 Dated 16:59:32 04-17-91 277 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: JOKE FOR TABBY
Heard last night at the Castle (No, NOT from T. C. Tahoe):
Did you hear that "Buckwheat" has become a Moslem? Yep, changed his
name to "Karem of Wheat."
Msg #284 Dated 17:00:51 04-17-91 278 <--> 409
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
I hope to be at Day of Magic - but schedule is still up in air.
Msg #285 Dated 17:01:12 04-17-91 -> 295
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: JUMBO CARD PRODUCTION
OK, here are some "lessons learned" on the production of jumbo cards:
1) Custom jumbo cards CAN be produced on a laser printer, but it is a
lot of work and a lot of time unjamming the printer.
2) You can start with either blank jumbos OR regular ones - either
way, you have to roughen the surface with 00 steelwool.
3) Clean steelwool from a hardware store works better than the stuff
with detergent built-in.
4) You should protect your hands with gloves, otherwise you may finish
the cards but it will be six weeks before you can stand the pain of
performing the effect. You should protect your eyes with safety
glasses of some type or wear a diving mask. You can protect your lungs
and nasal passages with a surgical mask OR, if you are a smoker, you
can jam a couple of filter tips up your nostrils (one per nostril).
The sanding process should be done OUTDOORS, away from plants, pets,
and small children. It should be done on a surface you don't care to
preserve (I used paper towels).
5) Steelwool the entire surface of the card in ONE direction (I did it
longitudinally, but you may prefer the other way) otherwise you will
get some weird reflective surfaces.
6) After steelwooling, carefully wipe the card VERY clean - the
steelwool bits will NOT help your laser printer.
7) If you have a HP LaserJet with a little door for a straight path on
the back, open it! The cards WILL not do the bend required to come up
to the top tray.
8) If it doesn't succeed, unjam the printer and try again - unless you
have a real thing about not ruining your printer, in which case you
probably should sit down with India Ink and draw the darn things by
hand.
Providing the above information does NOT suggest in any way, shape, or
form that you should ever try this!!! I will NOT be responsible for
damaged cards, damaged paper trays, or damaged printers. No liability
is expressed or implied by the posting of this message. Laws in your
state may vary regarding the use of steelwool.
Msg #288 Dated 18:50:42 04-17-91 128 <--> 289
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Haven't been able to contact Doug Clark yet anout the Vito Lupo
lecture. Now that you're back in town, maybe you can reach him at
415-933-DOUG. Congratulation on being on a magazine cover! Dean
"Tarbell Treasures" Montalbano has one coming up too! As to your car,
buy a new one and use it to roll your ex-wife!
Msg #289 Dated 18:54:42 04-17-91 136 <--> 290
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I agree with the technical apparatus putting the card on the window, or
possibly CBS got the Flash to secretly guest star...
The force I THINK was used was that the four of diamonds was slid under
to where the cards were divided. If you watch the tape, after he shows
the 4D and tears it, it's not visible for a moment. This leads me to be
lieve that the corner was switched. Admittedly, I could be wrong. But
it IS possible. Whatcha think?
Msg #290 Dated 19:20:42 04-17-91 279 <--> 291
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I think we are interested in the wrong things.
Msg #291 Dated 19:20:57 04-17-91 280 <--> 292
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
YEP.... it works so good, when done in the correct, casual manner.
Msg #292 Dated 19:21:32 04-17-91 281 <--> 293
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
You don't like what I use in my ACT! It never makes the spectator look
dumb or hokey when done correctly. It is all part of a sequence of
having a card chosen for my closing routine that seems like a gag down
the garden path. The force I use is I ask them to say stop, then after
the bits, ACTUALLY STOP at the spot they ask (JUMBO DECK SO ALL CAN
SEE) and then step forward and TRIP .... and I just hand them the top
card off the deck. The line is "Well he would have gotten that one
anyway...." (In context of the routine the setup is needed as I find
the wrong card AFTER an obvious FORCE! When I change it to the correct
card, the tension is releived and the applause is stronger than
anything else I do... so I moved it to the closer of my comedy club
act.
Msg #293 Dated 19:25:09 04-17-91 288 <--> 294
From: PETE BIRO
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Send me the money to buy the car!
Msg #294 Dated 19:25:41 04-17-91 289 <--> 299
From: PETE BIRO
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
No need to switch corners. It is pre-torn. Torn off the card outside
the window and then glued onto the selected card. See him hide that
with his fingers. It doesn't matter, really. I just talked to John
Gaughan -- he built the water levitation.
Any one see Becky Blaney on Rick Dees last night? Was good.
Msg #295 Dated 19:28:15 04-17-91 285 <--> 300
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: JUMBO CARD PRODUCTION
What trick do you need to make cards for?
Msg #296 Dated 19:32:47 04-17-91 -> 301
From: TABBY CRABB
To: AMIGOS
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Been kinda quiet lately but you guys won't let me get a
word in edgewise. SYSOP dice rolling your way. That'll be 40,000
dollars please.
I haven't been working or anything like that and have
been involved in learning how to use the publishing program a
friend of mine sent me. I've got a back ache and my eyes are so
blurred I'm typing from memory.
Saw where Richard Hart was trying to be funny a few days
ago, and speaking of funny: That french horn joke is a riot. I
laughed for five minits. I'm still laffing.
It is good to see the great discussions that DC inspired
through his recent special.
Whats been going on with the Castle library lately? Is TA
Waters the new librarian or what? I hope the library is open when
I come out to Torrence in May. Thats 14-19 for anyone interested
and will be at or near The Raintree on Torrence Blvd. Bring your
own earplugs.
Whats the Castle sked during that week? Anybody know?
Also somebody wanna take a ride to Vegas Wed or Thus night to see
if we can find a 21 game? Its only a coupla hours away, right?
Had a discussion with a younger (28) magician friend (TA
Waters fan, Rudy from down the road). He likes card tricks and
was showing me a few. We started talking and I started to show
him some pictures of old card gambling equipment in books and
catalogs. He couldn't see the tie in. Each trick he showed me
which he'd learned from video tapes I pulled a book from the 30s,
40s, 50s from shelf and showed the trick to him. He's never heard
of Erdnase's book "Subtrafuge..." He's a great guy. He used magic
to help him recover from MD. His coin work was respectful too.
I explained to him the connection between cheating at
cards and the magician's work. He caught on quick and knowing
that he relaxed and had a good time. He loaned me the Doc Eason
video as well as a Steve Spill and the Impossibilia, all store
bought copies I was glad to see. He says he has 70+ and has been
into magic for three years. I loaned him Garcia's Super Subtle...
and a bound 1-50 of The Phoenix. He had never heard of The Sphinx
or Pallbearers Review. He's got a lot of fun ahead of him as he
reads through this stuff. Lets see, he's got 70 videos. I've
watched one...thats many to go......
Dogs have been setting me crazy all day. Guy with #1
Metal band calls this am about Bone Pony. The dogs go off, rip
the phone right off the desk. Click......I call back. Dogs go off
and rip phone outa the wall......I call back.....he just went to
lunch. Thats when I was wishing tabman lived in the Maui Hilton
and had a free pass (I do) on the Pineapple Train.
I get up this morning and there's this 5 foot long fax
from Pete Biro hanging across Grandma's face. I fax him back and
he faxes me right back with the same stuff I just sent him only
he'd written some stuff on it in magic marker. It set me crazy
for a minit wondering what the hey was going on with my machine.
Biro stays on the cutting edge and right after I was trying stuff
from MAD FAX, Biro's got one of his own. Like me stuff went in
and it just started coming back at me. Great!!
Whats worse, David Lichtman sent me this 15 foot monster.
Luckily my fax machine hung up on him halfway through. I went
crazy trying to decypher it and had to call just to find out.
You know you've been had then.
These guys are smart and don't turn their machines on all
the time like I do. This is more fun than sending joke faxes to
Ben Harris and a lot cheaper too I guess.
Have been doing some behind the scenes stuff with Pete
and he and I may have a neat idea going which we'll make known at
just the right time. Wish us luck. Trying to find time too get
get in the shop and finish work at hand. Got a bunch of stuff
done today so maybe finish by the weekend.
Thanks Charlie Randall for telling us about the Magic
Collector's get together.
You guys with your discussion on the card on window have
got me thinking about what you pointed out about the window going
up so easily. I recall thinking at the time, "Great window, works
great" and letting it slide. Would love to have been behind the
scenes on that one.
Lance Burton did an illusion that he'd put together with
tape, cardboard and furing strips. It demonstrates that it's what
you don't see that doesn't matter out front. You never saw the
junk only the effect which was tremendous. Their timing on stage
was flawless from my vantage - back of hall full stage view -.
Packs light I'd bet. Major effect. Girl appears in cape and hood.
Lance dances with girl. Cape goes limp and Lance is now girl in
Lance's outfit. Lance appears standing on a table occupied with
spectators in mid audience. He played it well. I am impressed.
The big Michael Ammar book is coming out in less than a
month if all goes well I hear. That's one I'll read. Speaking of
big books, when is the Vol 2 of Stewart James sked to be
released. Probably no date as of yet. I've yet to get Vol 1 but
am so many books behind now I hate to compound the problem
preferring research on a generally forgotten subject which I'm
avidly following right now. It will be fun when we spill the
beans if you can see the connection.
This message might be getting too long, but nobody can
top Pete Biro for long messages though Steve Bryant might be
getting close. Some great stuff. Was sorry to see Steve's article
on Cassedega didn't make this issue of Seance, but editor Davis
had warned me he was planning to make issue #11 more personal
than the rest and take the issue himself and save the best for
last so to speak for #12 which is Seance final issue. High praise
from Steve Bryant on Seance #11. He should know.
Still no Magic Menu. Man, I'm gonna have to move to get
my mail on time. I even get Seance late and its right up the road
from here.
Don't forget about me. I sure won't forget about you and
been wanting to write everyday. I'll try to do better in the not
so near future.
tabwood
Msg #297 Dated 19:48:08 04-17-91 -> 324
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BECKY BLANEY
Thanks for reminding me. I did see Becky Blaney last
night on Rick Dees. She did good considering he had her cut her
12 minit act down to three minits. I think he liked the bit about
baton twirling college best. He said she'd be back I'm glad to
say. She's worked hard - I know I've said it before, but its true
and is a good example of dedication. Guess she inherited that
from her dad, Walter.
Am a big Blaney fan from way back. I got to know Becky
when she was in high school so I could meet her dad. I was
playing in a band in Houston. They've always been great to me and
I admire Becky for the comedy club circuit has gotta be tough but
she's always looking for a joke of a new trick. She does the most
fool proof bill in grapefruit there is. She learned it from
Walter, who to me is a vastly underrated magician and comedian.
He has her rehersing the shirt trick, but I don't know if she's
started using it or not yet. She works coast to coast coming up
from many, many opening spots. Best wishes to her. She looked
good and natural. Had to have been a tough spot opening on Rick
Dees. Gave her a good plug though and invited her back. She'll
get there I'll be willing to bet.
Msg #299 Dated 19:58:35 04-17-91 292 <--> 307
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
What you are describing is a funny parody on the force. And I don't
have a problem with that.
I was reading "Inside Allen" today and he does a cut and restored rope
-- backwards! That could be funny too.
Msg #300 Dated 20:01:37 04-17-91 295 <--> 328
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: JUMBO CARD PRODUCTION
I'm doing a show for a bunch of computer types - plan to do a Three
Card Monte with a mainframe, a minicomputer and a PC.
Msg #301 Dated 20:08:10 04-17-91 296 <--> 309
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Thanks for the dice, Tabman. Really appreciate that. 'Specially since
I know it meant an extra trip into town, which meant feeding the mule
all over again.
The Castle library is still closed - you'll have to ask T A when it
will reopen. And, yep, he is the official new librarian.
Don't have the May schedule yet, but will Telex you when it arrives.
The "bad news" is Vegas is 5 hours away, not 2.
Phoned the Castle today to dig a bit more about Super Pig, but got a
staunch "no comment." Meanwhile, also spoke to "our man" at U.S.
Playing Cards - will summarize the info as soon as I get a chance -
tonite is "Daddy and boy night," Mom is at a meeting.
Msg #303 Dated 21:08:11 04-17-91
From: MARTY SHAPIRO
To: ALL
Re: LECTURER WANTED
Greenville South Carolina IBm Ring 63 is looking for a good lecturer.
If you are going to be in our area and want to enjoy some southern
hospitality give me a call or write me a letter to show us your
lecture.
We are a very appreciative audience with some money to spend we usually
have 2 or 3 lectures a year and hadn't booked one yet. If you are
interested drop me a line here or call 803-297-0289 or write Marty
Shapiro, 201 Sturbridge Dr. Greenvie, S.C. 29615. Thanks in advance.
Msg #305 Dated 22:00:39 04-17-91 -> 317
From: JIM SISTI
To: ALL
Re: VARIOUS & SUNDRY
Just got back from New York City, where I've been since Monday AM. Had
some business at Tannen's (they might be handling THE MAGIC MENU) to
take care of. I ran into Peter Samelson there, who some of you might
know from his book "Theatrical Close-Up" (which contains the ultimate
patter theme for "Wild Card"..."The Invasion of the Body Snatchers."
) Anyway, Peter has a Mac and will probably be joining us on MAGIC! It
certainly would be a welcome addition, as Peter is one of the few
performers who can involve spectators with close-up magic on an
emotional level. I had dinner with Frank Garcia on Monday night.
Frank continues to be "The Man With The Million Dollar Hands," aand
his stories of the old Max Holden shop in NYC and magicians past and
present made the evening fly by. I managed to catch Penn & Teller on
Broadway and was suitably impressed. As their custom is to help hawk
T-Shirts and other paraphernalia after the show, I got a chance to chat
briefly with each of them. Really nice guys! OK...personal
notes--Pete.."Sankey Pankey," which contains the card-in-balloon that
Copperfield did is definitely out of print but shouldn't be too hard t
find. Tabby...you don't have the new MAGIC MENU because I haven't sent
them out yet. Steve isn't a subscriber...he bought a single issue.
It'll be on the way next week. To everyone else...is anyone interested
in a set of cups? I have a set of brass cups (just about new) about
the size of Paul Fox cups. Forty dollars or best offer. Let me
know... Ciao!
Msg #307 Dated 22:35:50 04-17-91 289 <--> 310
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
The force had the 4D in his left hand. When he closed the pack it
became the bottom card. VERY neat and clean, but you have to be able
to fan the pack from the bottom to the right while keeping the force
card in place.
The version in Annemann used a traditional fan (top to right). But
then you have to slide the bottom card along under the selected card.
Maybe easier to do, but more "dirty work" to hide.
Msg #308 Dated 22:40:53 04-17-91 116 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: SWIMMER'S WAX INFO
To: Tommy Wonder
Fr: David Lichtman
Su: Swimmer's Wax
________________________________________________________________________
Thanks to you and GARY PLANTS I have found the "swimmer's wax" here in
the U.S. under the name of MACK'S EARPLUGS. It is great! I really
appreciate your help along with Gary's. It is a great pleasure to have
you on-line with us here in the U.S. Arnaud is doing a very dedicated
job of transfering messages back and forth.
Msg #309 Dated 23:35:36 04-17-91 301 <--> 314
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Am extra-curious about dope on U.S. Playing Cards. Let us know when
you get the chance!
Msg #310 Dated 23:37:01 04-17-91 290 <--> 311
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I think people are so interested for a lot of obvious reasons, but also
because we're not used to thinking about magic the way Copperfield
presents it. With all the latitude of television and a big network
budget. I do, however, think there would be a point past which none of
us would be interested, and that would be if Copperfield's use of the
television medium (including stooges) became so important to his
presentation that is eclipsed thereal" magic. I'm not at all
suggesting that this is likely to happen, but I think it's interesting
to note that people are fascinated by the different possibilities this
kind of thing opens for the language of magic. But Copperfield is only
speaking with an accent -- if he were speaking another language, there
would be much less fascination.
One thought -- using stooges like that seems to open you up to
exposure, disclosure agreements or not. It's interesting he's willing
to take the risk. Probably because the general public doesn't care
about the train trick quite enough to make it's exposure genuine news.
Msg #311 Dated 23:43:21 04-17-91 289 <--> 316
From: EVAN KATZ
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I'm almost positive he didn't switch the corner out. The tear just
doesn't look natural. I'm also positive that the window opening
easily doesn't mean anything.
Pretty interesting that this one trick caused all this talk, no?
Msg #313 Dated 23:47:03 04-17-91 -> 318
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: BICYCLE SECRETS REVEALED
BICYCLE SECRETS REVEALED!
(C) Copyright 1991 by MAGIC!
I spoke with our man at Bicycle today. He had received my cards
and had carefully measured them and had determined that they WERE
WITHIN USPC TOLERANCE. According to him, their standard allows
for a 1/16" discrepancy from side to side between the width of
either the white outline on the back or the distance from the edge
to the pips. Frankly, I think my cards were beyond that, but he
had 'em and I didn't.
He said that there are no longer two plants. The one in Nevada
has been shut down. He also said that they never printed cards
there, only slotted and punched them. Apparently, there are three
major steps in their form of playing card production - Printing,
Slotting, and Punching.
He said that the 1/16" discrepancy is also the tolerance for
casino quality cards. The major difference in casino cards is the
higher quality paper stock from which they are produced (although
some casinos buy cards made from the Bicycle quality stock).
Apparently, one of the reasons (we know some others) that the Bee
back design (with no white borders) is prefered for casinos is
that the 1/16" discrepancy is less noticable that way.
Actually, the whole thing got pretty interesting - we discussed
stuff like the "worm back" Bee cards that Whaley/Busby/Martin
believe that Erdnase prefered, the museum of cards that USPC has
in Cincinnati, etc.
AND I got some insight into how to tell grey market and
counterfeit cards from the real thing. Up until now, I'd had a
suspicion that my cards were "grey" - that they had been intended
for export as seconds to third world countries, but that they had
found their way back. The reason for this suspicion was that most
of my decks had WHITE tear stips and these had CLEAR tearstrips
with the word Bicycle printed backwards (sometimes forwards).
According to our well placed source, this is simply an indication
that the ones with the clear strips are newer. Seems that the
marketing folks didn't like the white strip running thru the word
Bicycle on the pack, so they changed to a clear strip placed
higher on the wrapper.
He said that the genuine seconds that are shipped out of the U.S.
are controlled to the extent that they are containerized and
consigned by USPC and are (according to him) never delivered to
the buyer inside the U.S. In addition, they have a different tear
strip - he indicated RED and I suspect that, from time to time,
other colors as well.
We discussed the possibility of "magician's quality" Bicycle
cards, and he said that he had, as a result of our conversations,
brought it up to marketing and that it was under consideration,
but that they were concerned that such cards wouldn't sell in
sufficient volume to justify production. I'd like some opinons on
this and maybe we can pass the info back to USPC. Assume that
these cards will NOT be cheap!
FINALLY, I got SOME of the MOJO on the real counterfeits. Stuff
that USPC DIDN'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT because it could give the
counterfeiters clues... So keep it HERE inside the family - to do
otherwise only does us as "consumers" a disservice. He said that
real Bicycle decks have paper seals (although it is my experience
that these can vary in print size and color) while some
counterfeits have mylar seals. He said that if you are
suspicious, check for the "squiglies" around the words "Rider
Back" - the counterfeiters sometimes forget to put them in. Look
at the picture of the Viking lady on the front and check for
missing dots in the border and for missing stars in the field
surrounding her. Lastly, he said to turn the pack over and look
at the sky behind the rider - there should be four birds above the
clouds to the left (your left, not the rider's) and seven on the
right.
That's it, folks. You have the complete story on Bicycle cards.
Msg #314 Dated 23:49:02 04-17-91 309 <--> 315
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
You missed it by nanoseconds, Evan! I started to upload the Bicycle
info just before you logged off!
Msg #315 Dated 0:22:07 04-18-91 301 <--> 322
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
We're in the process of moving books now -- some cases still to be
built and other stuff installed, and a lot of that is out of my hands
-- but I will keep you all informed of opening date for the library.
Msg #316 Dated 0:25:54 04-18-91 292 <--> 325
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Pete, that gag is fine if it seems like YOU are the one that made the
mistake, riffled the cards too fast -- but nearly all of the hundreds
of magicians that do that bit make the spectator out to be the goon.
I remember one time last year at the Castle when performers in Parlor,
CloseUp, and Palace ALL used the gag, practically word for word; the
laypeople who hadn't liked it the first time didn't much care for the
encores...
Msg #317 Dated 8:02:38 04-18-91 305 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: VARIOUS & SUNDRY
Yo Jim.....
At least thats one magazine that isn't late. My post
office is a 2nd class (USPS designation, not mine) and I guess
they get mail whenever, don't know. Got SEANCE the day after
Steve Bryant did and I'm only a few miles away and he's about
1000 (a guess).
I'm glad you're keeping a dialog with Frank Garcia as
he's one of my all time favorite lecturers and card trick
writers. I've sed many times that his Super Subtle book is enuf
to make a great reputation with. At one time I knew most of the
stuff in there at one time and had a ball with it. Also have an
autographed Garcia Sponge Ball (hardbound) book which I
understand is hard to find these days. I bought it from him at a
lecture years back when these little red balls fascinated me. I
do know the girls liked them.
tabluck
Msg #318 Dated 8:03:22 04-18-91 313 <--> 329
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BICYCLE SECRETS REVEALED
Thanks for the USPC story. Gives me an idea. Thanks. Was
interesting to note that their 1/16 inch error margin on the
backs is in effect and for general home use who cares right. But
for multiple lifts, etc it could get sticky especially if you're
an astute spectator.
I bought several decks of USPC double backed cards and
noticed that the blue backs were a lighter shade than the regular
decks. Not only that I decided to test it out and Gloria (who has
seen a lot of card tricks but doesn't care how they're done as
she enjoys the mystery, noted right off the color shift.
I am dissapointed that the blues don't match. The reds
are perfect though, but since I mostly like blue backs, well I
feel screwed. Don't know if a normal spectator would notice, but
I don't get out too much. Would appreciate hearing if anyone else
has noticed this malady also. I understand the DB cards were
printed at the Nevada plant which you now tell me didn't print
cards. Would imagine that USPC gave you the straight story (hope
so anyway).
Letter from Bill Coomer who is sec of 52 PLUS JOKER which
is the American Antique Deck Collectors Club. Their 1991
convention (about 100 playing card collectors) will be held in
Cincinatti and the highlight is a tour of the USPC Museum. I am
thinking about joining so I can get on their auction lists of
rare decks as there are a couple of particular ones I'm searching
for.
JACK DANIELS
Msg #321 Dated 10:06:56 04-18-91 -> 332
From: ERIC RONNE
To: LICHTMAN
Re: KICKING A DEAD HORSE
I don't think DC is a lefty, since he uses his RH with scissors. The
reverse spread probably helped avoid a flash of the "four-ced" card to
the camera.
Msg #322 Dated 10:48:55 04-18-91 296 <--> 323
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
Better than what?
Msg #323 Dated 10:49:22 04-18-91 301 <--> 346
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
WE WANT KAPS LETTERS WE WANT KAPS LETTERS WE WANT KAPS LETTERS
Msg #324 Dated 10:50:39 04-18-91 297 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: BECKY BLANEY
DITTO
Msg #325 Dated 10:51:49 04-18-91 310 <--> 326
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I really believe the general public could care less about the exposure
aspect. Matter of fact weren't we all LAYMEN first?
I actually (and some of you can get mad at me for this) feel that about
70-percent of those that call themselves magicians (attendees at
conventions, meetings, lectures) are still much LAYMEN. They make up
the ENTHUSIASTIC audiences. And because they read and know how the
stuff is done does not stop them from coming to watch the performers.
What I hope the card on the train window DOES is set some of MAGIC!'S
MEMBERS to setting up the same effect at home, say on the dining room
window! A sound actuated system, a little brother outside, or use the
original HUMMER version where the card is there all the time and you
are going to throw the deck to the wall, but miss and hit the window.
No one notices the card there ahead of time because it is dimly lit at
first and YOU DON'T CALL ATTENTION TO IT.
Msg #326 Dated 10:55:50 04-18-91 311 <--> 327
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
The other tricks are getting more talk. But not among magicians!
Msg #327 Dated 10:56:31 04-18-91 316 <--> 334
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
You got it. I AM THE VICTIM. Same psychology I use on the BRA trick.
Bill Larsen once commented, after seeing me do the BRA trick about how
I did it like it WAS MY FAULT and NO BLAME on girl. It is ALWAYS
attitude tht makes things right. Thanks for your observation.
Re all guys doing same lines at Castle! There really should be an
editor there! Hah!
Msg #328 Dated 10:58:06 04-18-91 300 <--> 348
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: JUMBO CARD PRODUCTION
Do you have the work on the BENT CORNER?
Msg #329 Dated 11:01:52 04-18-91 313 <--> 330
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BICYCLE SECRETS REVEALED
What we need (after the Kaps letters) are Bicycle cards printed on the
Casino BEE quality paper. Suggest that.
You realize, of course the 1/16 edge discrepancy on BEE cards is super
noticable by hustlers and they SORT decks so the High Cards have a
different EDGE look owing to their printing/trim difference! Beats a
PUNCH as is not noticable as a hole in a card! I have an undercover guy
(friend that used to be a cheat) in Vegas that sorts BEE cards by the
"difference in texture/feel" and can deal indetactable seconds IN A
REAL BLACKJACK GAME. I have seen him do this in a casino!
Msg #330 Dated 11:05:04 04-18-91 318 <--> 345
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: BICYCLE SECRETS REVEALED
I bought some double facers and had the dealer confused when I said "I
always use Red Backs" -- heeh hehh ho -- yes I can be a sicko!
I was doing the ambitious card for one of the world's top race drivers
(they are noted for the great vision) and after I was done and chatting
he commented, "I have no idea how you do that stuff, but can I ask you
WHY DID THE CARD SEEM TO CHANGE THICKNESS FROM TIME TO TIME!"
Now I always keep the cards 90-degrees the the veiwer!
Msg #332 Dated 11:07:59 04-18-91 321 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: ERIC RONNE (X)
Re: KICKING A DEAD HORSE
It was probably based on whre he sat, what looked best on camera. AND
(not that I am a great example) some things a righty can do better in
left hand. Like one handed cuts, certain manipulations etc.
Msg #334 Dated 11:23:42 04-18-91 311 <--> 347
From: BILL WELLS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Guys...and Pete also....ever think of the possibility that SHE could
have switched the corner? I don't think she did in this case...but why
not...she is an actress and could easily fake surprise or whatever.
Msg #335 Dated 11:25:25 04-18-91 256 <--> 350
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: REGIONAL MAGIC
You are most welcome! I have briefly looked it over since I sensed you
were not thrilled about the 11 pm scheduling of the MAGIC! session. (I
thought hackers never slept!). The blocks I see that are still free
are 11 pm the next night or possibly something in the 4 to 6 pm
timeframe on the the first three days. There are some board meetings
and TVP meeting will would pull out a few people but you wouldn't be
opposed by anything major. I avoided this block out of personal
involvement in having to go to the board meetings and wanting to attend
the session...howsomever we could do it from 4 - 6 on Sunday and I
wouldn't have a conflict. Let me know what ya think.
Msg #336 Dated 11:29:13 04-18-91 257 <--> 352
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC IN BRUNSWICK
Certainly better than digging up a bunch of old bones!
Msg #338 Dated 11:30:14 04-18-91 268 <--> 386
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC/TRAINS/PEANUTS
Man...DC is only 45 minutes from Ballamo. I can get you to an airport
with no sweat. Dulles from the DC area, BWI from the Baltimore
area...or National (DCA) with a connect thru Kennedy in New Yawk. Do
it!
Msg #339 Dated 11:31:49 04-18-91 274 <--> 342
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC
I think you need glasses....if you read fast enough you won't gain any
weight!
Msg #340 Dated 11:32:15 04-18-91 275 <--> 390
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
I didn't tape it...and all these discussion of the tricks has me
wanting to see it again on tape...howzabout bringing the tape with you
this summer so I can make a copy. I am interested to see how
complicated everyone is trying to make the methods on the effects. The
card on the window has many easy explainations, but the railroad car
and the inertia problem has me really thinking.
Msg #342 Dated 11:40:23 04-18-91 100 <--> 344
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGIC
I am trying this business of answering off line and the
uploading. While I prefer the spontaneous response and consider
that to be one of the virtues of bulletin boards, trying to
function at long distance does impose certain sacrifices...
Imagine my absolute surprise at seeing your mention of VMI!
I thought you had discovered some hitherto little fact about my
background. Upon reading the hardcopy of your message #9916, I
believe you were merely relaying some of your family history
without the benefit of any knowledge of mine. Anyhow, it is
remarkable that your grandfather was an instructor at VMI and I
graduated from VMI in the class of '63. I grew up in the
foothills of the Blue Ridge and went to High School in a small
town about six miles from Lexington. What was your grandfather's
name?
You continue to be a source of amazement of one sort or
another!
Of course model making (and most other things) have a great
deal to do with magic. The more well rounded a person, the
greater the potential to do most anything better...including
magic! In the case of modeling, its like I was trying to tell
Frog...attention to the small details gives the illusion of
making the final product look better. You may not be able to see
the individual details, but the overall illusion is much greater
than the sum of the parts. This betterment exists on a number of
levels. I find using a prop I have made gives a special sense of
comfort and well being. I suspect I may even perform better as a
result. Maybe one imparts a bit of their personal "power" into
an object while creating it. Anyhow, "weathering" is definitely
a bit of magic and one only has to see a master railroad layout
or contest level models at a modeling show to understand whereof
we speak.
Goober Peas are also magic...just imagine someone in period
costume during Claude Rix's handling of the "Beggar's Pearls",
except using the Frog's concept of regional magic and using
Goober Peas. Just think of the delightful "clean up" at the
conclusion.
You would enjoy the Collector's Weekend. I went once and it
was wonderful...it is too hard for me to get away to magic
conventions in April or I would go back. Bob Parrish is as
gentle as his writings and one of the nicer people in magic. You
are correct...it is the few really nice folks that make magic
worthwhile. Hope this upload works! Until the next coincidence!
Msg #343 Dated 11:41:55 04-18-91
From: BILL WELLS
To: STEVE BRYANT (X)
Re: BRYANT
Steve -
My regrets for taking so long to respond to your message
regarding my comments on your review of the DMS. The annual
April bloodletting and other commitments have had me on the go.
First of all...you have some excellent suggestions which I
am in the process of passing on to Joe. Let me comment on a few
things you said.
I missed any ads on the Amazing Jonathan...when was that? I
don't recall any mention of him by Joe or in any ads. I would
like to see him work as well.
Please be assured I am not in the least offended by any of
your remarks nor do I feel that you are knocking the convention
shows in any way. In fact, I agree with what I think you were
saying, namely - keep the crap off the shows and concentrate on
entertainment!. I am MOST interested (as is Pete Biro) in
hearing more about why you don't wish to attend an IBM convention
and what it is about the "environment" that offends you.
Frankly, I find them very similar to the DMS except that the
Vegas location does heavily influence the DMS and the IBM
convention will differ each year due to site. I don't find that
the fraternal sponsorship colors the convention that much.
However, I am very interested in hearing why you feel as you do
since it is very easy to overlook things when you are too close.
Interesting point in that we probably should have considered
the performers personalities and appeal as well as subject matter
in the case of the opposing lecture scheduling.
We are aware of the 8:30 unannounced early start of the
Thursday contest show. It was a last minute decision that even I
did not know about much in advance. As I understand, the
decision was made to avoid going into overtime on the Trop stage
crew. The mistake was an assumption made by all that everyone
would be at the preshow party and therefore would not miss
anything with an early start. An incorrect assumption! Now we
know. A better job could also have been done with announcement
of the change.
GREAT set of comments on the voting! I never thought of it
this way!! Super!! I can assure you this will be discussed at
length in the next DMS directors meeting. I love the "minority
of the individuals who have already demonstrated poor
judgement...". Again, we were just too close to things to think
about the voting in this way. Thanks!!
Your comments are MOST constructive...don't sweat what you
might feel is negative...I don't take it that way. The input is
great!
I will check out your Invocational Review file. I haven't
seen Jon Brunelle work in quite a few years and haven't seen
Brian DeWitt but will read what you have to say.
Thanks again....do tell us more about "hoopla" and what
bothers you about the "fraternal environment", but keep those
comments coming in!! If not Baltimore, then howza 'bout Salt
Lake City in '92....or Quebec City in '93? ...or suggest a city
you WILL go to and I will try to take the convention there!
Bill
Msg #344 Dated 12:27:30 04-18-91 342 <--> 387
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC
My grandfather was Benj. Franklin Crowson, Pres. Class of
1910 VMI. He wrote their English text during the early 20s when
he came back as an instructor. He received a Va. State commission
at that time as Lt. Colonel. His VMI nickname was Bulldog. If I
have your home address I'll send you a sheet of music he wrote
and had published on a VMI theme - called Toast To V.M.I.. My mom
was born in Lexington 1922. My granddad from Crowsontown, Va, ES.
I was offered a scholorship to VMI in 1963 (year you grad) in
name of Col. Ballinger who was also 1910, but I was a hippy in
those days and went to GA Military to be close to mama. A career
private.
Did not know you're a V.M.I. man but not surprised as it
is the most elite, much more than the Point or NA school in US.
Life is full of wonderful surprises like that. Am working on a
screen play about a V.M.I. cadet who.....well, never mind. It's
not really about V.M.I., but this fact makes a statement about
what kind of man he is (he's interrupted during Sr. year and
never goes back. He faces many perils and confusions and
prevails.
I know this is a magicians bbs and this movie if of
course very magical. I bounced my treatment off a guy working
close to the top of the industry and he said write it and if they
like it they'll get somebody to write it right, so. Gotten bogged
down on it lately as my mom is editor and she's in California
last few months. I didn't teach Gloria how to read til after we
were married so I'm ahead of her - just kidding actually, she's
been proofreading for me past two days and she's fierce. Had me
crying a coupla times. But a magic movie if they see the point. I
tipped the name once on here and won't do that again. I get to
talking to myself and forget I'm broadcasting.
BTW this 2400 baud is great. So fast on the curves I slid
outa control a coupla times and almost crashed into the wall. Had
to drop back to 300bps for a coupla seconds. Been on here five
tiumes 2day alredy each time under a minit and 3 times under 30
sec. Cool. Gotta watch it though, just wrote the phone company
almost a thousand in back MCI and 800 stuff. Several months
though.
When Joe Frank Harris was Gov. of GA a friend of mine
from Troop 21, in fact asst patrol leader in my Indian Patrol,
Tom Purdue was his asst and they felt sorry for me cause I was a
40 year old Private and made me a Lt. Col. in the Georgia
Militia. I'm an Aide De Camp assigned to the Governor, that means
I deal first in camp, right? I taught em all how to do card
tricks, funny thing is I'm the only one who turned out a
magician (or at least will admit it).
Its not often I think about this stuff and appreciate
looking back at it all. My life has changed so much I'm happy to
remember where I came from, but I'd appreciate it if you'd keep
it a secret.
Gen. A. Cramp
Msg #345 Dated 12:52:09 04-18-91 329 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BICYCLE SECRETS REVEALED
Hmmmm... The Bee back is SUPPOSED to prevent that very sort (pun?) of
thing. But certainly, what you suggest is possible - and probable!
After Geno's articles on electronic cheating, I guess the next step
will be "smart cards" - like the ones used for charge cards in Europe
(slow to get here). A microprocessor imbedded RIGHT IN THE CARD.
Msg #346 Dated 12:56:01 04-18-91 323 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TABMAN STUFF
OK, OK! BUT somehow I gotta make a living too! And I've got a show
tonite. Seriously, they ARE on the priority list -- stop making me
feel guilty.
Msg #347 Dated 13:02:00 04-18-91 334 <--> 351
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Bill - You shoulda heard me scream when I read your message! What
great thinking - and after about 150 messages on the topic. Great
mind!
But I agree - it doesn't appear that she did that in this case.
Msg #348 Dated 13:03:44 04-18-91 328 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: JUMBO CARD PRODUCTION
Doesn't sound familiar - Bent Corner, Hmmm? Wanna tell us about it?
Msg #350 Dated 13:09:34 04-18-91 335 <--> 383
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: REGIONAL MAGIC
Hackers indeed never sleep; and they only eat cold pizza. But we are
concerned with general everyday magi who want all the news, sports, and
weather that MAGIC! furnishes. Personally, I think that you are the
guy who knows the convention and magi like the back of his hand and I
would trust to your judgement to pick the most auspicious time slot.
Besides, I'm fresh out of chickens and have no entrails to examine.
Seriously, given the available times, I'd appreciate it if you'd pick
the slot where you think we would have the most impact.
Msg #351 Dated 13:10:56 04-18-91 294 <--> 361
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
There is some talk around that the rail-workers' strike has some direct
relation to THEIR inability to figure out the "Card On The Train
Window" effect!
Msg #352 Dated 13:12:33 04-18-91 336 <--> 384
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC IN BRUNSWICK
And you think hackers have weird habits!
Msg #354 Dated 13:51:20 04-18-91 -> 392
From: ERIC RONNE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DEAD HORSE
Upon further reflection, I think the primary reason for the fan's
direction was to make covering up the pre-torn corner easier. You'll
ice that the pip cornerwas well-shielded in natural way with his RH
RH.
Msg #355 Dated 14:25:06 04-18-91
From: DREW SERNEKOS
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: HELLO AND THANKS
Hi Jim! It was nice meeting you at Tannen's this week. As you can
tell I was glad to find out about a BBS devoted to magic (I called as
soon as I got home).
How was Penn and Teller? Did you get to perform the national magic
trick ? :)
Type to you latter,
* drew *
P.S. Can't wait to receive my first copy of The Magic Menu.
Msg #356 Dated 14:27:27 04-18-91
From: DREW SERNEKOS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: BIO??
Hmmm... So you want a brief summary of my magic background.
I consider myself an amateur in the best sense of the word. I use
magic professionally to make my business presentations memorable ones.
For me magic is a sales tool (and a fun one at that).
I'm a management consultant specializing in information systems.
While I enjoy playing with all kinds of magical "stuff", over the last
year my magical interests have started to change. When I started
playing around with magic (about 20 years ago --- I'm 34 now) I used to
do mostly card tricks (I probably haven't done a real card trick in 5
years) and all the normal pocket tricks (paddles, coin boxes...).
Lately I have tried to only perform with natural (at least in the
spectator's eyes) props.
I believe it is more fun if magic seems to happen around the
magician. So if I'm at a meeting and I want to pick up a pointer to
emphasize a point I'll levitate it to me. If later on at lunch I am
asked to "perform" I'll use borrowed items and my surroundings (yes,
sometimes well planted) as props. That way the magic looks very
unrehearsed and "real".
I am trying to use more items which I can borrow (ever try to borrow
a HOT ROD from a spectator??), which has led to one big change in my
magic. My favorites have always been coin routines --- did you ever
try to borrow a half-dollar?? Besides magicians, who carries these
coins around?? I have seen fights break out if a cashier at a grocery
tries to "pawn one off" on a unsuspecting customer. So out went the
half-dollars and in came the quarters.
Currently I am trying to figure out if there is a way to take the
"puzzle" aspect out of magic. I would rather have a spectator involved
in the experience and less challenged by the need to solve the puzzle.
Any ideas??? All help is appreciated!
Hope that was brief enough.
* drew *
Msg #357 Dated 15:18:05 04-18-91 -> 358
From: ERIC RONNE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: JUMBO CARD PRODUCTION
To add some nice color to "home-made" cards from a laser printer,
Letraset's Color Tag is a great tool. It runs around $100. You lay down
strips of color and use a special iron which makes it adhere
(permanently) to spots where toner lies. Metallics and mattes are
possible (metallics lay down much easier). Check it out.
Msg #358 Dated 15:43:29 04-18-91 357 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ERIC RONNE (X)
Re: JUMBO CARD PRODUCTION
GADS!!! You can't even keep your own secrets around here! Someone will
just go right ahead and reveal 'em.
Uh, yeah - one of my cards is metallic red... BUT I didn't pay $100!
I use "LaserColor" - package of 7 letter size sheets for about $20-25.
You lay a piece down and run it back thru the laser printer as a blank
page and - PRESTO - COLOR!
PHOOEY! Now that my secrets been revealed, what the heck am I gonna do
at IBM?
Msg #360 Dated 15:49:16 04-18-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: DICE
"Got the dice..."
"Dots nice."
Seriously, thank you. Had someone in the car with me when I picked 'em
up and told him the story. He said, "MAGIC! sounds like more than
colleagues, it sounds like family."
Msg #361 Dated 18:21:40 04-18-91 294 <--> 362
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Becky Blaney? I didn't see her on Rick Dees last night, but I did see
her perform the rabbit pan on an old special called "Houdini Never
Died...He just vanished!" She was only performing to get through
college then. Didn't know she went pro!
Msg #362 Dated 18:23:31 04-18-91 307 <--> 363
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I figured it was something like that. Now, anybody out there who can
explain the "outside the window" part of it? Also, does anybody know
how the levitation in the middle of the audience was done. Flash paper
to rose I understand, but the levitation, no!
Msg #363 Dated 18:25:36 04-18-91 311 <--> 365
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Try reading message 10240, from Dr. L. He had a good explanation.
Msg #364 Dated 18:26:23 04-18-91 -> 366
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: GENII SUBSCRIPTION
On the 16th, I sent of a letter w/ money order to subscribe to Genii
(Yes! finally!), and I have a question. Will the first issue I get be
the May issue, or the April issue? Someone told me my "Magical Chairs"
effect was in the April issue, and my local store sold out of it!
Msg #365 Dated 18:30:16 04-18-91 215 <--> 367
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Many stores have appearing (and even vanishing) card case effects, it
could any one of a hundred methods! Yes, too easy!
Msg #366 Dated 18:50:51 04-18-91 364 <--> 851
From: TABBY CRABB
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: GENII SUBSCRIPTION
In April Issue, Scott. Call Genii office will bet Dante will send you
out copy by post.
Msg #367 Dated 18:54:06 04-18-91 361 <--> 370
From: TABBY CRABB
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
She was on Tuesday night. She's been working Comedy Circuit around USA
for several years now. She does the Castle about twice (once?) a year.
Msg #370 Dated 19:17:48 04-18-91 233 <--> 373
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Yeah, Pete but if he had hired us it would have taken another five
minutes to roll all the credits!
Msg #373 Dated 20:31:54 04-18-91 334 <--> 374
From: EVAN KATZ
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
She could fake anything and I'd be happy about it.
Msg #374 Dated 20:42:21 04-18-91 325 <--> 376
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I don't get it, Pete. Are you saying that anyone who doesn't perform
magic for a living is a layman? Isn't that a little (cough-cough),
um... snobby?
Of one thing I'm sure -- the economics driving the publishing of all
these great, high-quality hardcovers in the last few years (Kaufmann,m
L&L, etc) is a direct result ofamateurs. I guarantee you there aren't
enough "real magicians" ithis world to make producinthose books
affordable
That aside, I'm wondering why you're going out on a limb to ke what I
consider a needless and aliating distinction?=+W-
EK
Msg #376 Dated 21:20:32 04-18-91 334 <--> 377
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Actually when we looked at her they switched Copperfield out and
brought Mike Weber in!
Msg #377 Dated 21:21:08 04-18-91 347 <--> 378
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Who?
Msg #378 Dated 21:21:22 04-18-91 351 <--> 379
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
You are the first one to get it! A picket walking by slammed that card
in place. It was actually a Union Card!
Msg #379 Dated 21:22:10 04-18-91 361 <--> 380
From: PETE BIRO
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Becky is full time doing comedy clubs, and according to my friend Lisa
Menna (who just came back from Australia) is DOING REALLY WELL!
Msg #380 Dated 21:22:59 04-18-91 362 <--> 381
From: PETE BIRO
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Levitation of What? The paper rose? It is advertised for sale, marketed
by the creator Kevin James. I hope it comes with the mike stand
(without which DC couldnta done it. Hint. Finn Jon are you listening?
Msg #381 Dated 21:24:25 04-18-91 370 <--> 382
From: PETE BIRO
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Not at 9600 Baud!
Msg #382 Dated 21:25:01 04-18-91 374 <--> 393
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: LAYPERSONS
No, NOT ALL, but a Majority are what I call MAGILAYMEN. They love
magic, read about it, know how the stuff is done, but just don't
perform. No snobbery inteneded, it is just a category that exists and
without we wouldn't have sold out conventions, etc. and a market place
for a great many performers/lecturers/writers without them. Maybe there
are two sub sections... like in sports a FAN CLUB sort of person.
Msg #383 Dated 21:27:54 04-18-91 350 <--> 404
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC! AT IBM
I think the first 11 pm is too soon into the convention to geet the
word out.
Msg #384 Dated 21:28:19 04-18-91 336 <--> 430
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC IN BRUNSWICK
How about burying OLD bones?
Msg #386 Dated 21:29:48 04-18-91 338 <--> 432
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC/TRAINS/PEANUTS
Do wha?
Msg #387 Dated 21:30:01 04-18-91 339 <--> 388
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC
I have completed the Evelyn Wood school of 2400 baud reading and hope
to sign up for the 9600 baud course this fall.
Msg #388 Dated 21:31:27 04-18-91 342 <--> 389
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC
What's an upload? Anything like an uplift? I hope George Forman wins.
Msg #389 Dated 21:32:57 04-18-91 344 <--> 416
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGIC
Do you sleep?
Msg #390 Dated 21:33:18 04-18-91 340 <--> 433
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
You a railroad man can't believe a train gets moving with little
difficulty? It was the deceptive steps that has them allj fooled.
I should send you the tape right away. Send me back the Sullivan tape,
when you can... OH, JUST FOUND A KAPS TAPE FROM A SHOW IN ENGLAND WHERE
HE DOES MY RING ON GLASS EFFECT... BEST VERSION EVER.
Kaps (hey FROG where are the letters???????????????) also does the
trick he left me in his will, THAT I HAD NEVER SEEN HIM USE ON A SHOW,
ONLY IN HIS LIVING ROOM. NOW I KNOW THE PRESENTATION!!!!!!
Msg #392 Dated 21:39:10 04-18-91 354 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: ERIC RONNE (X)
Re: DEAD HORSE
Yep.
Msg #393 Dated 21:39:33 04-18-91 380 <--> 396
From: RICHARD HART
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Wait a minute there, Sir Pete! Aren't you just stringing him along?
Msg #394 Dated 22:08:14 04-18-91 -> 405
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: CHOO CHOO CARD
OK... here is what I have figgered after about 10 more instant
replays and finally single frame slo mo's on the card on the
outside of the choo choo window.
First. There is no switch of the corners. Ms. Seymour holds it in
full view alla time. So the glued on torn corner is the only way.
FINALLY.... the position of the camera to the cards held by DC is
critical. Not a difficult chore with todays TV viewfinder
technology. And besides. If it misses they do it again. And
again. And again.
So... finally, using masking tape on my tv screen!! The kid was
curious!! I found that in single frame slo mo the playing card on
the window is seen for a fraction of a second between his fingers
as the cards are flying from his hand to the window. But when all
the cards are done flying and the selected card is seen in all
its glory on the window... it is about ONE INCH HIGHER THAN WHEN
I FIRST SPOTTED IT AS THE CARDS BEGIN THEIR SPRAY!
So, it has to be a sliding window.
It didn't relate at first, but a sliding window gaff was in a
recent Abbott catalog -- most haven't seen it because they don't
have the address. Again, the train is seen going past their new
showroom!
Msg #395 Dated 22:35:52 04-18-91 -> 406
From: MAX MAVEN
To: ALL
Re: TRAIN WINDOW
Just back in the country. Having quickly scanned the messages, I gather
there is a notion being passed around that the inspiration for David
Copperfield's card-on-train-window was the discussion of a card-on-
airplane-window on this bbs. Sorry to burst anyone's bubble, but such
is not the case. David was working on this idea well in advance of that
discussion.
Pete, regarding your theory about a "glued corner," try again. By
the way, it's worth recording the actual source of the card-on-window
effect: Bob Hummer, who used to do it in hotel rooms. He'd generally
pick a room on a very high floor. In those days, the windows of many
hotels were permanently shut. His work on vanishing the card from the
pack is established (it's in the _Jinx_), but his method for getting
the card on the outside of a sealed window is little known.
Msg #396 Dated 23:00:38 04-18-91 325 <--> 399
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LAYPERSONS
Trust me on this -- Melinda was never a layman.
Msg #397 Dated 23:14:30 04-18-91 -> 412
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON... YES, THE TRAIN
Maven, in mssg #10328, seems to indicate the glued-on corner is not the
way. Do you think he's eliminating the pre-_scored_ corner, or is he
implying it was a switch.
Msg #399 Dated 23:18:53 04-18-91 382 <--> 400
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LAYPERSONS
Does performing strictly for family and friends (otherwise known as
"victims") comdemn one to this category of being a member of a "FAN
CLUB?"
I think a lot of people fall at the fringes of this category, including
me. I'll purchase, read, study ten or twenty times more material than
I will ever perform. Partially of course that's because not all the
material you read is appropriate for everyone (or is the seven thousandth
variation on "The Collectors.") But mostly it's because the demands of
life prohibit anything more for some.
Anyway, an intense interest in magic, but one that does not translate
into a strictly professional pursuit, does not make one a member of a
"Fan Club." There is a hierarchy of leaders, mentors, and their
followings in any clubish pursuit. Magic fans of all levels bring the
most important elements to the art -- energy, enthusiasm, economic
support, and an audience for long, bothersome effects that have no
purpose that to fool other magicians.
EK
Msg #400 Dated 0:17:41 04-19-91 365 <--> 401
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Yes, but I thought his version was particularly nice - although very
bold. And it can be done with just a slightly modified regular card
case and regular cards - don't need to buy it in a magic store.
Msg #401 Dated 0:20:16 04-19-91 377 <--> 423
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
You gotta learn to go B (Back) more than once - but I'll save you the
trouble - the "who" was Jayne.
Msg #404 Dated 0:40:57 04-19-91 383 <--> 427
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC! AT IBM
Thanks. I just don't know enough about it to figure out the best time.
I've asked Bill to see if he can come up with something a bit better.
If not, heck, I'm sure that MAGIC! members will convene - we just won't
get to see some new people.
Msg #405 Dated 0:45:04 04-19-91 394 <--> 478
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CHOO CHOO CARD
OK - a sliding window - not too far from the MAGIC! Card to Airplane
Window discussion. But the top of the glass is OUTSIDE the camera
frames, right?
Msg #406 Dated 0:46:38 04-19-91 395 <--> 420
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: TRAIN WINDOW
Glad to see you back with us on MAGIC!, Max. But let me dispel the
"rumor" right away - at NO TIME has anyone suggested that the
discussion on MAGIC! inspired Copperfield's effect. Yes, because there
was a similarity with the previous discussion, it has been a popular
topic on here (and also because there is a LOT that can be learned from
it - it was VERY WELL DONE). BUT the fact that he was working on it
was hinted at (I believe, perhaps, even by you) in the previous
discussion. Furthermore, he is the type of person who very clearly
gives credit and had it come from here (and had he known that) I'm sure
he would not have simply "appropriated" it.
So, there was no "bubble" to be burst.
I'm glad to hear that it wasn't a glued corner - I've pretty much been
one of the holdouts against that idea, although under the onslaught of
the "glue group" I have been tempering my opinion.
Msg #409 Dated 1:27:48 04-19-91 213 <--> 410
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
Evan,
I plan to be at the Day of Magic...hope to see you there.
Msg #410 Dated 1:28:57 04-19-91 284 <--> 417
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
Just a reminder... Were your Magic! buttons so we know who you all are.
Did most of the people get buttons? What about it Dr. L???
Msg #412 Dated 2:26:01 04-19-91 397 <--> 442
From: MAX MAVEN
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON... YES, THE TRAIN
Neither.
Msg #416 Dated 6:15:30 04-19-91 389 <--> 421
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC
Why run when you can walk. Why walk when you can ride. Why stay awake
when you can sleep. Guy sed this to me one time. What does it mean?
Msg #417 Dated 7:11:56 04-19-91 410 <--> 439
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DOUGLAS LARSON (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
I think most folks have 'em. If not, they could write the word MAGIC!
on a 3 x 5 file card and pin it on.
Msg #420 Dated 7:37:00 04-19-91 395 <--> 436
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: TRAIN WINDOW
Hi Max,
Glad to have you back in the country with us again. Where
have you been or is it a secret.
Thanks for the Bob Hummer info. More impressive sounding
was his card on sealed shut hotel window which I would like to
see sometime.
You know, I don't think anyone thought that DC was
influenced by our card on plane window discussion. There has been
a lot of fun in the discussion at any rate.
That card on plane window thread was started by PB when
he posed it as a fun question. Michael Ammar did pick up on it
and include it on a coupla Christmas cards last year.
The engineer in the studio here and his girl friend
called me from his parents home on LI after seeing DC do your
"Mind Games" trick. This is the one that the kids who work the
studio liked. Most magicians would pass that one by as its one of
"just one of the many math trix" and would require the use real
memory.
My memory is so bad I have to check the name tag my
underwear to see who I am in the mornings, but I was right there
with my finger on the tv too. He said it was a first, but don't
remember if he was referring to nat'l tv or tv in general.
Things got so wired on the road one month that I thought
my name was Mr. Haines. Its a good thing cause they're still
looking for him.
tabman
Msg #421 Dated 8:32:35 04-19-91 387 <--> 422
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC
Man...don't go to skin and bones!
9600 baud is fab city....but not standardized as is 2400...before you
buy one make sure the places you call can handle what you get!
meanwhile be fat and happy....
Msg #422 Dated 8:33:56 04-19-91 388 <--> 479
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC
uploads can be most uplifting....
and vice versa....
everyone over 50 hopes that George Foreman wins!!
Msg #423 Dated 8:35:37 04-19-91 347 <--> 424
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Magicians always seem to look for the most elaborate methods...they
also want to believe it is really magic!
On a show like this...I suspect the easiest and most direct and safe
methods were used!
That car still has me going....unless that really wasn't a car on the
set and they went through the real car on another set.
I don't tape 'em...cause I really enjoy being fooled and I don't really
want to sit around and overanalysize em...
see...I want to believe in magic too!
Msg #424 Dated 8:38:22 04-19-91 351 <--> 425
From: BILL WELLS
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Apparently Congress had an Ace in the Hole!
Msg #425 Dated 8:39:21 04-19-91 373 <--> 426
From: BILL WELLS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
The same thought went through my mind....a number of times!
One of the best ceb assistants DC has ever had!
Msg #426 Dated 8:40:26 04-19-91 376 <--> 443
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
But whose hands did they use?
I thought I saw DC fold back into the wall just before the cards
were sprung!
Msg #427 Dated 8:42:29 04-19-91 350 <--> 428
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: REGIONAL MAGIC
...and I thought Sysops were all powerful decision makers....
Gadzooks!!
I will discuss it with de Count (as in Zamora) and get back to
you!!
Msg #428 Dated 8:43:41 04-19-91 383 <--> 429
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC! AT IBM
I see de Count is already on top of this!
Msg #429 Dated 8:44:05 04-19-91 404 <--> 444
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC! AT IBM
Maybe we shoud have session I at 4:30 on either Saturday or Sunday and
have session II at 11 pm on Sunday night if the interest seems to
warrant doing so....the hard core users will want to get together more
than once anyhow. Your main competition at 11 to 12 pm is the dealers
room...which may be closed the first night (I will check on this).
Msg #430 Dated 8:46:37 04-19-91 352 <--> 431
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC IN BRUNSWICK
I always wondered what future archeologists would have to say if they
dug up the country around Lexington, Kentucky in the far future after
a volcanic eruption had buried the area.
Msg #431 Dated 8:47:43 04-19-91 384 <--> 481
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC IN BRUNSWICK
whose?
Msg #432 Dated 8:49:09 04-19-91 386 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC/TRAINS/PEANUTS
Hey man....I don't know if you are in the mood or what....
do whatever whenever...
Msg #433 Dated 8:50:17 04-19-91 390 <--> 482
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
Are you talking the skull? I saw him do that once in a living room as
well....you have him doing that on tape?
Will send the Sullivan tape...sorry I forgot. You don't have to rush
on the DC tape....I just know how heavy a railroad car is and roller
bearings and all...you got to have considerable energy and time to
overcome that inertia....unless the real car wasn't sitting on those
tracks! There is only ONE place the real car could go and it seemed to
me that it had to go awfully quickly! I figured the steps were there
for more than just steps but I don't tape em cause I want to think
about em first.
Great on the Kaps tape! I want to hear about it later.
Msg #436 Dated 9:00:48 04-19-91 395 <--> 453
From: BILL WELLS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: TRAIN WINDOW
Hi Max...Bob Hummer and his card outside hotel windows was the first
thing that went through my mind when I saw DC do it on the train. I
remember someone else doing it at a Columbus Magifest many years
ago...maybe Ken Klostermann...but I am not sure.
I agree with you 100 % on the glued corner....I think Pete is just
stringing everyone along on that anyhow.
Anyhow...welcome back!
Msg #439 Dated 12:03:26 04-19-91 409 <--> 440
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DOUGLAS LARSON (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
Looking forward to meeting you.
Msg #440 Dated 12:03:53 04-19-91 410 <--> 441
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DOUGLAS LARSON (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
I, for one, have no button.
Msg #441 Dated 12:04:09 04-19-91 417 <--> 445
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
Square root signs back. And I believe that writing MAGIC! on an index
card and pinning it to my body is a POOR substitute for a MAGIC!
butto
l
Msg #442 Dated 12:05:23 04-19-91 412 <--> 454
From: EVAN KATZ
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: CARD ON... YES, THE TRAIN
This is a long shotbut it wouldn't have anything to do with the device
John Kennedy mkets?
Msg #443 Dated 12:29:58 04-19-91 423 <--> 455
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: REAL MAGIC
WHAT DO YOU MEAN -- "WANT TO BELIEVE IT IS REALLY MAGIC"??? Sounds
like you are casting asparagus at the FACT that there is real magic.
Sheesh - worst thing I've read since I discovered that there was no
Easter Bunny (which is really weird 'cause I'm Jewish). Real magicians
do real magic. Then they think up gaffs and gimmicks to cover that
fact so that they won't get burned at the stake, even if it might mean
that their picture would be placed on a postage stamp posthumously.
As to "easy magic," I've had a theory for a while, based on
observations at lectures, conferences, etc., that American magicians
tend to like to do things with sleights and European magicians tend to
like to invent gaffs and gimmicks. Maybe a discussion topic for
consideration between here and MAGIC-NL.
Msg #444 Dated 12:45:40 04-19-91 429 <--> 475
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC! AT IBM
One of the things that I noticed at Desert Magic was that we really had
too many agendas for the MAGIC! Breakfast -- letting MAGIC! members
meet each other, introducing MAGIC! to new people, and providing
advanced tips and techniques for MAGIC! members.
If we could do two sessions, as you are suggesting, that would be
GREAT. We could have session I at 11:15 p.m. as originally planned -
that one could be the "MAGIC! Members Reception" and, because of the
time, could run as long as members wanted it to. The second one, at
4:30 on either Saturday or Sunday could be the MAGIC! orientation (we
GOTTA come up with a better title!) for new people, more formal and
with overhead transparencies, etc.
Let me know what you think.
Msg #445 Dated 12:54:04 04-19-91 441 <--> 515
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
OK, OK, we'll try to figure some way to remedy the MAGIC! button
crisis. 'Course, if you sent in a CASH DONATION you could still
receive one of the LIMITED EDITION SIGNED and NUMBERED MAGIC! buttons
along with a frameable certificate identifying you as a CHARTER
SUPPORTER of MAGIC!
Msg #447 Dated 16:44:01 04-19-91 -> 516
From: MICHAEL AMMAR
To: GARY PLANTS (X)
Re: HELLO
When I logged on my first time, the first message I saw was your wax
message to Lichtman. How's Ann? O I miss you guys!
Msg #448 Dated 16:46:29 04-19-91
From: MICHAEL AMMAR
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TABLE
Hope the FAX arrived - I'll be putting some table stuff on paper soon,
and I'll get it off to you!
Msg #449 Dated 17:11:47 04-19-91 -> 484
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X)
Re: HI FROM HOLLAND
Michael,
.
Just a note from Holland to show you how International Oriented
the world of BBS's is. We have here a small MAGIC! office located
in an old Mill, and in fact I am typing this message while
wearing my wooden shoes, and do have some tulips in a vase on
the table.
.
Although still in startup phase we do have some very active
participants, with Tommy Wonder among them.
.
Do you have plans to come the FISM?? If not, no problem as MAGIC!-NL
will keep you up to date of all the happenings overthere. A well
equiped reporter group will report on all the latest from Lausanne.
.
Nice to have you online.
.
Arnaud
.
P.S.
If you feel the need top send a message to a MAGIC!-NL user, either
send your message to my attention or to the account 'MAGIC-NL'.
Msg #452 Dated 18:07:46 04-19-91 -> 458
From: EVAN KATZ
To: SYSOP
Re: GREETIN'S
Are you planning on greeting Michael Ammar's presence with a message or
something? Just wondering, since this guy is, like, one of THE best
performers and thinkers around and, like I think we should be like
rilly, rilly happy to have him. Dontcha think?
Msg #453 Dated 18:11:58 04-19-91 420 <--> 471
From: MAX MAVEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TRAIN WINDOW
No secret: I was in Japan.
Regarding the Copperfield promo stating that this interactive mindgame
was a first for national television, it's not so. I've presented such
on network broadcasts in this country as well as England and Japan. On
the other hand, there's a long tradition of such overstatement on the
part of publicists, so it was not a surprise.
Msg #454 Dated 18:17:36 04-19-91 442 <--> 469
From: MAX MAVEN
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARD ON... YES, THE TRAIN
Sorry, but I don't feel I'm in a position to provide information on the
card-on-window routine. I was privy to the planning -- had some input
-- and thus, I think you'll agree, it would be out of line for me to
discuss it further.
Msg #455 Dated 18:17:58 04-19-91 380 <--> 457
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
What name is it marketed under? Actually, to anybody listening, it's a
good rule (at least i've found it to be good) not to do stuff Just
shown on a major show like copperfield's. Making effects up is more fun
anyways...
Msg #456 Dated 18:21:03 04-19-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X)
Re: ABOUT TIME
Michael,
Welcome to MAGIC!. Thanks for the info on fax this morning. I've
already taken it to heart and made changes. When I get it to a new
point will fax more stuff.
Hope the arm is better soon. Will talk to you later as my egg
rolls just arrived from the Good View Restaurant - Chinese humor I
guessd as the place has one small window.
tabman
Msg #457 Dated 18:20:41 04-19-91 400 <--> 460
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Do you know how to make it, or where I can get the info on how to make
it? I have a routine that it might work with. As a sidebar, I thoght it
would have been better to start with the card case there, and make it
vanish. Why make a card case appear, only to take the cards out again
for the effect?
Just saw an effect at the local magic store, speaking of card cases.
The magi screws two have of a card case together, only to screw it with
opposite sides together. The cards are taken out, and the deck is
half-backs, and half fronts! A quick twist, and the deck is normal!
Anyone know where this idea originated, and how old (or new) it is?
Msg #458 Dated 18:27:08 04-19-91 452 <--> 493
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: GREETIN'S
Thrilled is a word for it and I agree that Michael is one of the
smartest guys around. Funny guy too. We'll have to cut all the lies
we were telling about him now that he's on here too.
Msg #459 Dated 19:41:00 04-19-91 244 <--> 632
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: OUR MAGIC GOVERNMENT
Perhaps the effort for a Houdini Stamp is lost on the bureaucrats.
Usually they do not like the honor the same man TWICE. You may remember
that several years ago there was a Houdini postcard.
Msg #460 Dated 19:41:59 04-19-91 326 <--> 472
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
It would be interesting if everyone here would poll the general public
to see which effects THEY were most impressed with. After all isn't
that who WE will be doing magic for? My short poll finds the most
talked about trick being the Mindgames train car location. Guess I'll
have to dust off my Room For Doubt by Tony Spina.
Msg #461 Dated 19:42:41 04-19-91
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: ALL
Re: BOOKS
Thanks to Evan Katz and Trevor Griffiths for supporting the booksale
that helps MAGIC! operate by donating 10% of the proceeds to MAGIC!'s
operational costs. (for more info download the file BOOKSALE.TXT) I
hope you guys will write a review here as it looks like you got some
GREAT titles that I havn't had a chance to read yet myself
There are now a few more titles that are available but not yet on the
list. They are: _The Very Best Yet, The Commercial Close-up and
Stand-up Magic of Dan Fleshman_ Priced at $16.50 It is fully
illustrated and easy to read. The effects contained have been performed
in trade shows, restaurants and comedy clubs around the country.
Effects listed are Dan's ring and string routine,Kiss Me You Fool, The
Card to Fly, Momma in My Wallett, Maxi Twist Twist, In Hands Triumph by
Steve Payton, Cop Sandwich, Four The Easy Way,Coin Through Hand, C/B/S
True and Thru by Richard Bartram, and the Rub Away Vanish in a
spectators hand.
_Workers #1_ by Mike Close Eugene Burger describes Michael Close as
"..The star of Illusions restaurant, his work is characterized by
intelligence, wit, and devilishly clever methods which fool me.
Michael Weber says he is "..One of Magic's last undiscovered creative
treasures Dr. Strangetrick leaves the others in the dust". This is a
manuscript of thirty six pages containing seventy fve illustrations.
Four items are explained including Dr. Strangetrick regarded by many as
the definitive handling of Card Warp. None of these requires difficult
sleight of hand. $20.00
_Card in Wallet Book_by Jerry Mentzer $39.50 This illustrated book has
nine chapters entirely devoted to this one effect using all types of
wallets. methods and ideas by over 40 contributors including ALL the
big names you would expect.
Video _1986 New York Symposium_ $39.50 This video has the CARD THROUGH
BALLOON EFFECT by Jay Sankey as performed on the COPPERFIELD SPECIAL.
If you missed the book _Sankey Pankey_ don't miss out on what may be
your last opportunity to learn this great trick.
Don't forget the April specials described in a previous message. I'd
like to see some more participation. In the last two months only 5
volumes have been ordered.
Msg #462 Dated 19:43:09 04-19-91 -> 486
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DON-JUAN
Re: SPOONERISTICS
Been some talk lately about Amateur and Professional
magicians and the fact that they're a breed apart.
I've been reading stuff about that same subject in the
literature I have around the place - a pretty good bit of pre
baby boom stuuf..old Sphinx, Hugard's Mo., Magic Wand, Phoenix,
Jinx and it's come up at least once a generation. So it seems to
be nothing new under the sun again.
The fact that history repeats itself should give some
comfort to the more rational of us as it gives us a peek at the
future and maybe some time to prepare for it when it presents
itself.
I have a sneaky feeling that those who have chosen to
follow magic as a profession do so because they are driven much
in the same way the that the rest of us are driven to study such
an unusual hobby. Dare I call it love.
A deviation, but a pointed one please. At the grammy
awards last year I was in an auditorium - Becky Blaney was there
too, we went to the Castle for a late drink after pigging out on
owl ear sandwiches - with entertainerslike Stevie Wonder, Ray
Charles, Paul McCartney, Bette Midler, et al. I had a pivotal
experience that night and I think it applies here. When I
remembered why we were all in that room (all 2000 of us) It
changed the way I look at things. We were all in that room
because we loved basically the same things. It wasn't the gig or
the money, cause you never have enuff - it was the big WHY.
WhatI am is a professional tabman which is like a giant
hobbit, though thank the chief magi I don't have one of those
rings, only handsomerr with no fur on the back of my hands. We
tend to view a professional in this country as someone who
actually makes his or her living doing something or another, but
to me a professional is somebody who has all the bases covered.
Certain top pros are some of the most knowledgable people
around on any subject magic. They sure wouldn't have to do that
to be a money maker. They do it because of opportunity. They love
it and got into it. They're init so they really get into it.
I wonder how many of the professionals working around the
world today set out to become a magician. Maybe they did after
they got into it at 13 or so, but before that. It's something you
do because you love to do it. You can't get enuf.
If it seems like I'm browning up to the pros, then think
again. I just think its a stupid arguement, but one somebody
starts everyonce ina while cause they're bored I guess. If you're
on this board once a week then I'd say you're borderline and
could maybe kick the magic habit if you went into Betty Ford. If
you're on 4-5 times a week or so, then you're probably doing
something with magic every day and that puts you into one
catagory with the professionals cause they too do something with
magic every day.
One thing sets me off is people fighting it out with each
other over not much. Any time somebody wants to start this again
for the thousandth time this century send me your address instead
and I'll start mailing you tractor parts catalogs. If that don't
calm you down then call Daavid Litchman, he's an amateur brain
surgeon and sometimes he lets me hold the flashlight.
flash gooberman
Msg #466 Dated 19:51:12 04-19-91
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X)
Re: WELCOME
It's been a long time since I talked with you and Hanna in the Castle
library about joining us here. Glad you finally made it. Have you
recovered from your injuries? Say hello to Hanna. Type at you soon.
Burt C.
Msg #467 Dated 20:24:27 04-19-91 -> 487
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: OKITO BOXES ET AL
I found your bookmark in the Magic Wand at the Cup and
Ball Table. What a great idea. Did you mark this on purpose for
me, or was it marked from some forgotten read a decade or more
ago?
Can I clean my trick coins in an ultrasonic cleaner
solution? Seems like I remember coin dealers used these things
for rare coins, but my memory was one of the first things to
start getting shorter and I can't fer the life of me recall.
Called a rare coin shop in DC today and made the mistake
of telling him I was a magician (never do that unless you're
Copperfield) trying to find some prices to get ungaffed dupes of
some Walking Liberty stuff I've got, quarters too as I wanna make
a pivoting stack outa some of them to go with my WL half stack,
folder, etc. The trick coins you sent to me got me inspired to
pull the Bobo off the shelf and take a trip down memory lane.
Oh yeah, I remember what it was ---ANYBODY------->
The Question-->
My Johnson Okito boxes hold six halves. My antique half
stack is 7 high. Are there (were there) any nice brass Okito
turnovers mfg to hold seven coins? I hope so......
Catch you on the flip flop.
Oh yeah, why did the magician cross the road?
Msg #468 Dated 20:26:02 04-19-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: MAGIC! FAMILY
A family, yes. Getting to be much like a great extended family with
Msg #469 Dated 20:41:08 04-19-91 454 <--> 514
From: EVAN KATZ
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: CARD ON... YES, THE TRAIN
I agree.
Msg #470 Dated 20:41:47 04-19-91 -> 491
From: EVAN KATZ
To: ALL
Re: NOTHING TO DO WITH MAGIC
Tonight, I got engaged. Seriously!
Msg #471 Dated 22:06:54 04-19-91 395 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: TRAIN WINDOW
Hummer really had made a great rep with that stunt! The card on
airplane window was a complete put on!
Msg #472 Dated 22:09:03 04-19-91 396 <--> 473
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: LAYPERSONS
You right Kemosabe!!
Msg #473 Dated 22:09:39 04-19-91 399 <--> 474
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: LAYPERSONS
one is, in fact, in any category that person chooses actually. I wish
I could call myself a PRO, but having stopped performing for a living
takes me outa that catagory... however as a producer of shows I feel I
am in the PROFESSION. It all changes reather often, and in fact mostly
has to do with ones ATTITUDE. Most convention attendees really don't do
much or know the real inside stuff. This is not meant as a knock, it
is just that access to the real stuff is hard to come by.
Msg #474 Dated 22:12:34 04-19-91 455 <--> 489
From: PETE BIRO
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
I forget, but Maven will know. It was marketed by someone for Gaeton
Bloome. Gaeton's version(s) are very entertaining as well.
Msg #475 Dated 22:15:00 04-19-91 427 <--> 476
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: REGIONAL MAGIC
How did you know I USED to perform as Count Zamora in the early days of
midnight spook shows? Did I tell you whe I was drunk?
Msg #476 Dated 22:16:12 04-19-91 429 <--> 477
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC! AT IBM
Zounds better to ze (no-a) Count! Get mo folks interested via talk.
Msg #477 Dated 22:16:54 04-19-91 444 <--> 629
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC! AT IBM
Fight for it.,
Msg #478 Dated 22:17:15 04-19-91 405 <--> 492
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CHOO CHOO CARD
YUP
Msg #479 Dated 22:18:56 04-19-91 421 <--> 480
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC
jUST KIDDIN
Msg #480 Dated 22:19:10 04-19-91 422 <--> 633
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC
George had better win!
Msg #481 Dated 22:19:37 04-19-91 431 <--> 635
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC IN BRUNSWICK
Anybody you cand finds.
Msg #482 Dated 22:20:29 04-19-91 433 <--> 636
From: PETE BIRO
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: COPPERFIELD
You just have a donkey engine down the track with a long cable.
Msg #484 Dated 22:22:56 04-19-91 449 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: HI FROM HOLLAND
Any news on the video tapes we discussed? One inch master? I hope to be
at FISM but will travel light and leave my computer home, so you will
inform our members... great! Best to Koornwinder and Tommy W (we had
dinner when he was here last month!)
Msg #486 Dated 22:26:49 04-19-91 462 <--> 494
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SPOONERISTICS
You da Flash? My favorite comic character (after Cap'n Marvel and the
SNIFFER) Actually I have yet to find anyone else that remembers the
Sniffer! He could smell crime as it happened miles away. Great comic.
Pro/Amat....ALL ONE'S ATTITUDE, NUTTIN TO TO WITH MAKIN SCRATCH.
Msg #487 Dated 22:29:15 04-19-91 467 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: OKITO BOXES ET AL
He was a Priest? My antique slot jpays off less coins now than in old
days. Why? Coins are thicker now days. I have some standing liberty
half dollar coins with shell and some folding one (I THINK?).
SURE IT PUT THE BOOKMARK IN THERE? WHERE? WHAT BOOK? HUH? REMEMBER ME,
EARLY ALZHEIMERS?
Msg #489 Dated 23:02:59 04-19-91 457 <--> 490
From: GENO MUNARI
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Jimmy Grippo performed the card on window for Winston Churchill,
however it was raining on the outside window. According to Grippo,
this was about 1941 or so, of course the date may be different. Even
so, I have known, and have heard of the effect for at least 20 years by
Jimmy Grippo, and I taking nothing away from David Copperfield, Jimmy
and He and myself, sat many times in the Baccanal or the Palace Court
of Caesars Palace, discussing this effect and many others.
Jimmy also used to pass out literature that told of this effect and
Churchill. The method......simple.......a fly swatter.....you figure
out the rest.....
Msg #490 Dated 23:08:37 04-19-91 457 <--> 497
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
There is a card case reduction - poker to mini - that is marketed by
Christian, among others. Know I've seen it advertised around by
several dealers - Joe Stevens, I'm pretty sure. Also might be
something Howard Schwarzman might have.
A card case vanish that you can make for yourself is, I believe,
described in Curtis Kam's & Harry Lorayne's "Best of Friends II."
There is an add-on by Ken Krenzel in which he has the case come back,
but I don't have the source - perhaps someone else does.
Msg #491 Dated 23:23:03 04-19-91 470 <--> 511
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: NOTHING TO DO WITH MAGIC
CONGRATULATIONS, EVAN! How long is the gig? Oh! You mean engaged as
in engaged to be married! GREAT! Hope she likes magic and large phone
bills.
Msg #492 Dated 23:24:57 04-19-91 478 <--> 506
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CHOO CHOO CARD
And why doesn't the bottom of the extra glass fall on his hand when he
opens the window? Or at least prevent him from getting to the card?
Msg #493 Dated 23:28:02 04-19-91 452 <--> 507
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: GREETIN'S
I think you just did provide the greetings! Actually, for some strange
reason, it has felt like Michael has always been here...
Certainly he has been referenced MANY times on MAGIC! and has, behind
the scenes, done a GREAT DEAL of work on MAGIC!'s behalf (there is a
MAGIC! project that, for the moment, must remain undisclosed that
Michael has been working on).
Personally, I think that having Michael and Hanna "live" here is one of
the best things that has happened to MAGIC! - Heck, getting to know
them has been one of the highlights of my magical experience.
How's that for an official welcome?
__ _
/ ) / _// / _/_
/ / __. , __o __/ / o _. /_ / ______ __. ____
/__/_(_/|_\/ <__(_/ /___ <_(__/ /_<__/ / / <_(_/|_/ / <_
Msg #497 Dated 0:29:18 04-20-91 460 <--> 499
From: RICHARD HART
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
My unofficial poll of laymen on D.C.'s show.
Most liked: Mindgames train car location
Dancing tissue to rose
Least liked: Card from balloon (several had correct solution, in fact)
Msg #498 Dated 1:45:56 04-20-91
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X)
Re: "THE BOOK"
Hiya, Michael. Good to finally see you on here.
I received the promo material today from L&L on the new book and, yes
indeed, it looks great!
Msg #499 Dated 2:05:59 04-20-91 457 <--> 500
From: MAX MAVEN
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: CARD ON TRAIN WINDOW...
Paul Harris.
-- END OF MAGIC-21 --