MAGIC! - 24
The following was compiled from the magician's message section of
MAGIC!(tm). MAGIC! is an electronic communications system for
magicians. It may be accessed from any personal computer with a
modem by dialing US 818-896-7450. Access is free, except for
normal telephone company charges. New registrants must 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 by MAGIC!, All rights reserved.
Msg #1500 Dated 17:04:31 05-01-91 -> 1552
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: L.A.
Tabber...
How long are you planning to be in L.A.?
Whatcha gonna be doing for the remainder of your stay?
Msg #1501 Dated 17:05:55 05-01-91 -> 1538
From: JEFF BUSBY
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ERDNASE
You have one humming BBS here. Haven't been able to log on more than
three times in the last several weeks -- each time I've been amazed at
the hundreds of messages posted.
Don't be too worried about not getting the brochure for the Erdnase
book yet. Over 50 sacks of mail went out for distribution across the
U.S., but the delivery of Bulk Rate mail is admittedly uneven. For
instance, we're getting orders from the East Coast, but I haven't
received my test mailing locally. Yup, Tab is quoted and MAGIC!
credited. Why not?
Msg #1503 Dated 17:14:08 05-01-91
From: JEFF BUSBY
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HELP
You'll find the Linking Rings in the even earlier 1859 edition of the
_Boy's Own Conjuring Book_ too. But the passage you quoted and the
illustration appeared even earlier (in 1857) in _The Magician's Own
Book_, pages 31-32. It's not plagiarism; both were published by the
New York firm of Dick and Fitzgerald. _The Magician's Own Book_ is not
particularly rare. There were scads of editions. I think Charlie
Randall and Dick Hatch offered one on a recent list for a reasonable
price. Reportedly the book was written by H.L. Williams (according to
H. Adrian Smith, Williams was "a hack writer of the period") and John
Wyman, a leading professional of the time ("Wyman the Wizard").
There is no evidence that the effect deserves the Chinese monicker.
Cardano (the gambling scholar) first records watching street magicians
tossing rings in the air and linking them around 1530 in his _De
Subtilate_ (1550). Admittedly this MAY have been the precursor of
"Magical Chain Welding", but the effect is there. Philippe was
performing the trick by 1837 -- perhaps the first Westerner to do so,
and Kia Khan Khruse (a Moslem) was performing the effect by 1816.
Khruse was doing the effect with ten rings.
It seems the first in-print explanation is in that wonderful set of
books by Jean Nicholas Ponsin, _Nouvelle Magie Blanche Devoilee_ (sorry
no diacriticals!) published in 1854 in Reims, France. It is in the
second volume of the two volume set on pages 39-42.
The trick is called "Tour des grands anneaux que l'on fait voir
separement, fermes et bien soudes, et qu'on entrelace a la vue des
spectateurs." Ponsin gives a fairly comprehensive routine with patter.
The interesting thing is that he remarks that the routine is
"ordinarily done with SIX rings" and that's the routine he gives, long
predating Vernon.
One thing that you might not know is that the Vernon routine is
reportedly based heavily on Cardini's routine. This is substantiated
by a pencil written, heavily illustrated, description of the routine I
have in my files drafted by Faucett Ross. Vernon did make additions
and changes, and these were recorded by Ross at a later date. However,
the routine seems to belong mainly to Cardini.
I have been told by sources who knew BOTH that it was the publication
of this routine that lead to the break-up of the friendship between
Cardini and Vernon. They still weren't on speaking terms when Cardini
came to Hollywood to accept his fellowship from the Academy of Magical
Arts in the early 1970s.
Msg #1504 Dated 17:19:58 05-01-91
From: JEFF BUSBY
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: DYE TUBE
Probably the same local guy who phones or writes every few weeks asking
me to sell him one. Believe his first name is Brad, and he doesn't
seem to understand the word "No". The Paul Fox Dye Tube was not
commercially released. And, the few that were made were spun from
aluminum, which is not right. I won't sell him something that is
incorrectly made, but he still keeps asking. Vernon had one of the good
ones, I think.
Msg #1505 Dated 17:25:03 05-01-91 -> 1540
From: JEFF BUSBY
To: MANNY WELTMAN (X)
Re: HOUDINI SKILLS
Contemporary accounts of Houdini's prowess with cards were highly
complimentary. By contemporary, I mean accounts published of his work
between 1897 and 1914, by other well-respected magicians, NOT by
newspaper and magazine flacks and hacks. Even Camille Gaultier (who
seemingly loathed Houdini personally and roundly criticized him for his
attack on Robert-Houdin) complimented Houdini's card work in his _La
Prestidigitation San Appareils_ (1914, translated as _Magic Without
Apparatus_ in 1945 by Hugard). T. Nelson Downs -- a supreme egotist and
no slouch at cards himself -- allowed some very laudatory remarks on
Houdini's skill with cards into his _Art of Magic_ in 1909.
I don't see how I can say this without making it seem like a plug (and
our Sysop, Dr. L, is welcome to delete this if he wishes) but you might
be interested in some further comments on the subject of Houdini's
ability and a connection with Erdnase on pages 215-216 of _The Man Who
Was Erdnase_. Personally, I would be very interested in seeing any film
that exists of Houdini performing with cards. Years ago, I saw a short
clip of Houdini doing a few flourishes. At the time I was impressed --
they were very skillfully performed.
Msg #1506 Dated 17:28:31 05-01-91 -> 1514
From: JEFF BUSBY
To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X)
Re: THREE ACES
Hi Mike. Good to see you're finally on line. Referring back to your
message #1038, I'm in agreement that the Three Aces is an fine trick to
teach children. At least you're starting them out right . . . with a
trick from Erdnase. Gee, I hope Richard Hart won't want to burn _The
Expert at the Card Table_ now that he knows that! I mean, there are
more than a few versions of the Pass in that book. Seriously, as far as
I'm able to tell, that book contains the first appearance of the trick.
And, seemingly, the author was proud of the effect. If you or anyone
else knows of an earlier source, I'd appreciate learning of it.
Msg #1508 Dated 18:24:32 05-01-91 -> 1520
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAC ADVICE
Hey, great! Maybe they can help the mac dude who's trying to logon. Of
all the PD progs for communication, he should fin at least one program
that's right for him. Happy Mayday!
Msg #1509 Dated 18:26:32 05-01-91
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: ALL
Re: DAVID LETTERMAN
The other David L (Letterman) on his May 1st show (actually May 2nd,
VERY EARLY) is featuring the Amazing Kreskin as a guest! Now if only
David Letterman had a coherent mind he could read....
Msg #1510 Dated 18:38:30 05-01-91 -> 1513
From: JERRY BURTON
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
I think we all noticed the crappy lighting. Wonder whose fault that
was ?
You are right it did start him off on a shaky note. Maybe he wanted
them
that low so he could make his 'eye-contact' point later on. With the
lights
up you can't see past the second row.
Msg #1512 Dated 18:41:08 05-01-91 -> 1522
From: JERRY BURTON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
Has anyone received any info on the Day of Magic at UCLA this week-end
I registered and got a card saying they would send further info, but
nothing has arrived ?? I have another version of RDMAGIC ready I'll
upload it later tonight. This version automatically skips messages
you may have already read via a chain as you merely walk straight
through a file. I'll check later - Thanks. BB
Msg #1513 Dated 18:51:29 05-01-91 -> 1530
From: JERRY BURTON
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
By 'tough room' I meant that it is tough to have to
perform for 58+ magicians, who 'have seen it all' (whether
that's true or not is another question) and are WAITING
to be impressed.
..
As Mike Webber said, "It's like walking into Lion Country
Safari in a meat-loaf suit" (he was referring to doing doing
magic for kids, but I think the comment is applicable here also).
If you aren't dead-nuts on you can get killed, or make your
reputation. Whether they are in actual fact the toughest
audience is immaterial if the performer/lecturer thinks they
are. If you remember towards the end of the lecture Vito
mentioned he was quite nervous about giving a lecture at the
'Castle', and it showed.
..
I find your comment regarding the attitude of castle members
particuliarly interesting. You are absolutely right in that
many, project a superior know-it-all attitude but can be easily
'amazed' when a lecturer does something they are not familiar
with. They might also be 'pleased' to see something they
already 'know' done extremely well, and react with a similiar
outburst of appreciation (e.g. the golf ball color change).
..
The fact that many castle members perpetuate the idea that
the finest magic in the world is performed at the castle,
and only the finest magicians in the world are members,
borders on myth. It is true that many of the finest magicians
in the world perform there AND many of the finest magicians
in the world are members, but does merely being a member
automatically put each member in the finest category -
I think not. There seems to be a kind of automatic arrogance
built-in to being a member of the castle, that I don't feel
is justified.
..
Regarding experience, if you watch magicians every week for ten
years you have '10 years experience' in viewing magic.
Maybe you can't do everything you see, but you certainly are
an experienced viewer of magic. I may not be able to play the
violin, but if I listen to enough violinists I can certainly
tell the good from the bad, and eventually, through my
'experience' be able to recognize the best when I hear it.
The same principle applies to magic.
..
I, like Wayne Powers, don't agree with your comment regarding the
laugh over 'the best way to way to hide something is to put
in print' being a BRAND NEW observation for MOST. I would
rather believe that many people were already familiar with
the line, and were laughing in affirmation. For those that
never heard it before, maybe they will start to read and find
the hidden secrets for themselves.
..
Burton the Bizzare...
Msg #1514 Dated 19:28:20 05-01-91 1506 <-
From: MICHAEL AMMAR
To: JEFF BUSBY
Re: THREE ACES
Hi Jeff! I forgot that was in Erdnase! Great call!
Msg #1515 Dated 19:29:45 05-01-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: MIKE O'DOWD
Mike's concern was that it not be lost. He was trying to
show me everything. We spent two days sitting at a bar table
together but I was having trouble catching everything because of
the din and know I missed many finer points.
Msg #1517 Dated 19:35:03 05-01-91
From: MICHAEL AMMAR
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: BIRO LETTER #5
I enjoyed the letter with dDingle's handling of MacDonald's aces. Just
a Thought on the switch, which, as you pointed out, is so wonderfully
direct. Using everything as you described it, you could perform the
switch without the Biddle grip, which can be a tip to other magicians.
(I realize LAYMEN never elbow each other during Biddle grips, but
humor me...)
The left thumb just pushes over the cards, reverse counting them
into the right hand. Actually, it seems an equal action of the right
thumb pulling/dealing them over and the left thumb pushing.
When you get to the final Ace, which is actually a block of five,
the left little finger pulls way down, and the right hand comes
underneath the five cards, as the right thumb seems to pull the whole
block over onto the three aces as one. Just simulate the exact method
of counting four cards from the deck into the right hand.
As you do this, I don't think you should count the cards.
Everyone knows how many aces there are, and with numbers as low as
four, if you want them to know there are four, you'd just show them two
groups of two, or something similar. TOMMY WONDER told me that the
Elmsly count shouldn't be done as a count, because you wouldn' go One,
Two, Three, Four. An Elmsly count, I blieve he said, should have a
broken rhythm. In this case, I think the pacing should have metronome
precision, but you shouldn't be audibly counting. Something
like,E*<6 "For what I'm about to do, the Aces will serve as the leaders
of the pack...'
Returning them to the top of the left hand packet, the left thumb
then pushes them off one at a time, into their proper position.
Hope you don't mind that I pop in with comments such as this.
It's not meant as an improvement - I just enjoy thinking about magic!
Msg #1518 Dated 19:42:02 05-01-91 -> 1525
From: BRUCE SANDERCOCK
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: MAGIC LUNCH
Thanks for your help with the dee-zipping commands. Was able
to firm up my travel plans and it works out that I will be
able to attend the "MAGIC" luncheon at the Castle on the 17th.
Have not had time to scan messages this past week, so please
advise who I should confirm with?
Msg #1519 Dated 20:15:31 05-01-91 -> 1577
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: FLYER WUZ ERDNASE
Yes! It is quite a flyer - MAGIC! credit and all. Funny when the
flyers become collectables - hope Jeff printed it on acid-free paper.
Msg #1520 Dated 20:23:39 05-01-91 1508 <--> 1701
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: MAC ADVICE
Thanks for mentioning May Day - despite it's political significance in
the "Cold War" era (it belonged to the "other side"), it was a popular
American holiday in the early days of this country (did anyone on here
bother to dance around their May Pole?). And I believe that, like
Halloween, it is one of the OLDEST holidays - certainly, it was
celebrated by the Druids.
Msg #1522 Dated 20:29:22 05-01-91 1512 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
Sheesh! I finally found a few moments to download and look at the
current version! Really impressive! Lots of nice features. I've sent
a copy on to programming for them to look at (it won't go anywhere
else, they are under a non-disclosure). RDMAGIC is a GREAT
contribution!
Msg #1524 Dated 20:34:22 05-01-91 -> 1526
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
Good idea to videotape and watch what I'm doing or trying to do in
slo-mo. After looking through "Counts, Cuts, Moves and Subtlety" and
a few other references I would be REALLY surprised if I have come up
with anything new. Thanks for the idea!
Msg #1525 Dated 20:37:11 05-01-91 1518 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BRUCE SANDERCOCK (X)
Re: MAGIC LUNCH
Glad we got your problem de-zipped. Great news that you will be able
to attend the MAGIC! luncheon on the 17th (and, for everyone else, that
leaves even fewer seats remaining!). The confirm is to me, so you just
did - I'll put you on the list. See you at 11:30 on May 17th!
Msg #1526 Dated 20:38:55 05-01-91 1524 <--> 1535
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
Took a quick look at my notes and didn't see what I was looking for.
If I find it, I'll let you know. Meanwhile, have fun with Elmsley.
Msg #1527 Dated 20:51:04 05-01-91 -> 1541
From: DENNIS PIERCE
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: GENII MAGAZINES
Regarding the back issues of Genii, how far do they go back, and at
what cost? Whose attention should I address my query to? Oh yes, thanks
for the info.
Msg #1530 Dated 21:15:19 05-01-91 1510 <--> 1531
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
I dunno, Jerry. I don't want to beat this into the ground and I
certainly don't want to spend so much time and focus finding fault with
a very fine lecture. My opinion is that the ultimate responsibility
for such things must rest with the performer...and, let's speak here in
general terms, rather than specifically about Vito's lecture. The
performer must arrive in sufficient time to check out the stage and
setup...including lights, sound, etc. I realize that a lecture
per se might not always have such demanding requirements, but when a
performance is a part of the lecture, the performer MUST devote as much
preparation time as he or she would for a show.
I take the time to discuss this here because it's important to many of
us to be reminded periodically to guard against taking anything for
granted in our preparation. This is true in ANY performance medium...
ESPECIALLY MAGIC!
Msg #1531 Dated 22:13:57 05-01-91 1513 <--> 1533
From: MAX MAVEN
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Sorry, but I can't agree that ten years of hearing violin performances
would make you an expert on what constitutes good violin technique. I'd
hope that, assuming you weren't brain-dead, you'd develop a personal
aesthetic as to what appealed to you personally in the way of violin
music -- but that's not the same thing, is it.
As to whether it's a high-pressure situation to perform for an audience
of sixty magicians, I suppose for some it is. In my experience, it is
not. In fact, magicians are arguably the _easiest_ audience in the
world to fool.
Msg #1533 Dated 22:25:36 05-01-91 1530 <--> 1545
From: MAX MAVEN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Hold on. If you show up to tape a commercial, is it your responsibility
as the performer to know that there's videotape in the recorder?
I think that a performer, having made his/her requirements known to the
producer, has taken care of the professional responsibilities. By all
means, if circumstances permit there's nothing wrong in coming in with
back-up preparations, just in case. However, the delegation of
culpability is clear.
Msg #1535 Dated 22:29:31 05-01-91 -> 1573
From: MAX MAVEN
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
In the majority of cases, the two (or more) cards pushed off as a block
in the course of an Elmsley Count need not be perfectly squared.
From your description (and your wife's comments), my guess is that your
problem is a combination of basic discomfort with the sequence, plus a
tendency to move the hands apart and together symmetrically. If you try
leading forward with the hand that is ostensibly counting off the
cards, and keeping the other hand relatively stationary, I think you'll
find the counting looks more natural.
Can't agree with the suggestion that you learn to do this type of count
by practicing with a metronome. Such an exercise might be of help in
terms of getting comfortable with the sequence, but after that it's
likely to yield a stilted feel to the enterprise. In fact, there are
many cases wherein a deliberately staggered timing is of value.
Msg #1538 Dated 22:45:14 05-01-91 -> 1546
From: STEVE SILVERMAN
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: ERDNASE
Yes....spent a week in Ft. Lauderdale and a week in Orlando. I headed
down to KSC (Kennedy Space Center) on 4/23 to view a shuttle launch bu
it was scrubbed...had to catch it on the news last Sunday from home.
Ran into one humungous rain storm though.. Good old thunder and
lightning...don't see too much of that stuff out here. I'll be at the
M.C. manana eve.....see you soon?
Msg #1539 Dated 23:02:53 05-01-91
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: ERIC RONNE (X)
Re: VEGAS SHOWS
Pick up "Whats On" in Las Vegas. It's a freebie
in town and they list ALL the shows with prices
Msg #1540 Dated 23:10:58 05-01-91 1505 <-
From: MANNY WELTMAN
To: JEFF BUSBY
Re: HOUDINI SKILLS
I have a film of Houdini performing with cards. It's not very long, but
you are welcome to see it .. Give me a call: 818/786-7372. I have over
an hours worth of Houdini film. Most taken off 35mm prints, and very
sharp and clear. The one if him doing cards was taken of off a 9 1/2 mm
film. (One of the first home movie mm., long before 8mm.) so it goes
kind of fast , 9 1/2 mm ran at about 12 frames per second.
Msg #1541 Dated 23:41:25 05-01-91 1527 <-
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: DENNIS PIERCE (X)
Re: GENII MAGAZINES
At the moment back issues are all dealt with on
a "request" basis. You request it and we see if
we have it. anything to 1975 averages $3.50
each with volumes going considerably less.The
mid 60's are pretty much gone we have early
60's to 50's with prices varying. There should
be a list in a few months. The best prices are
through the free classifieds in Genii. Wer've
found some dandies.eg: Vol 1 - 25 at $5.00
each. pick & choose.
Msg #1542 Dated 0:12:11 05-02-91 -> 1543
From: T A WATERS
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: YOUR OPINION PLEASE.
Well -- I still disagree with you about mentalism being a branch of
magic; if anything it is an outgrowth of spiritualism -- but I will
agree that people used to believe that what magicians did was real, and
not all that long ago either.
Msg #1543 Dated 0:24:11 05-02-91 1542 <--> 1566
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: YOUR OPINION PLEASE.
One of Vito's good lines, as he held a match in one hand and lit a
cigarette three feet away in the other, was, "Hey, a thousand years ago
you folks would have called me Chief for that."
Msg #1544 Dated 0:35:20 05-02-91 -> 1614
From: PAT HOLCOMBE
To: MANNY WELTMAN (X)
Re: HOUDINI
Thank you for your offer to educate MAGIC! members regardingHoudini.
In October my group would like to put on the Houdiniseance in two
parts, 1st - what really happened at the lastseance ( where Bess
presided), and 2nd - what many would haveliked to have seen happen. I
would like to have any informationon the actual documented happenings
of the last seance so ourseance could be as close to documented history
as we can makeit. Thank you and I hope to converse with you again
soon. Pat
Msg #1545 Dated 0:16:18 05-02-91 1533 <--> 1571
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Designation of "culpability" is not something I care to concern myself
with, Max. I don't have any interest in pointing blaming fingers at
anyone and crying, "Nanner, Nanner!"
"Responsibility" is a different issue and the one to which I address
myself. As it is the performer alone who faces the audience and their
approval or disapproval, it is the performer who must bear the ultimate
responsibility for the needs of his or her performance. Misplaced
trust and misguided delegation of those responsibilities without proper
supervision is an invitation to disaster.
My point is NOT that there is, as you say, "nothing wrong with coming
in with back-up preparations," but rather that there is EVERYTHING
wrong in NOT coming in with such preparations!
It can and often does save the performer from needless embarrassment.
An audience doesn't care about "culpability." That's one for the
lawyers to buck heads about at a later date. An audience knows that
they either saw a good show or not...and, if not, they will most often
blame the performer...regardless of who might have been "culpable."
The illustrative argument you've set forth about showing up to tape a
commercial is a classic straw man and, as such, not pertinent to the
question at hand.
So, essentially, we may very well be talking about two different issues
here...culpability and responsiblity. If so, our disagreement just
might prove to be semantic rather than substantive. That would be
unfortunate, as I do enjoy our discussions.
'Wayne.
Msg #1546 Dated 1:00:27 05-02-91 -> 1568
From: EVAN KATZ
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ERDNASE
Yeah, it's been a while.
Msg #1547 Dated 1:42:38 05-02-91 -> 1551
From: JERRY BURTON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: RDMAGIC
I just uploaded the latest greastest version of RDMAGIC. It now has the
ability to skip over messages you have already read via scanning a
thread when you are moving through the files sequentially using return.
The reply portion should be ready next week sometime. I get so involved
just reading the old messages I don't work on the program.
Did you get my message regarding Saturday's Day of Magic ??
Talk to you later - I'm going to download some more of the old magic
files. I'm up to 774K with magic-01 thru 5.
Msg #1548 Dated 4:18:14 05-02-91 -> 1553
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: HAZZA BOUT SAT.?
Just when I thought it was safe to get back on the board...I have to go
to a three day course on advanced Lotus! imagine my surprise when I
found out it involved computers....I thought I was gonna learn some new
positions....at any rate I am gonna be too busy to get on the board
much and wanted to leave a quick one for ya....are you gonna break
loose anytime this Saturday while the Doctor is in town? I hope to get
up to his all day lecture sometime shortly after lunch. Let me know
what's happening.
Msg #1551 Dated 7:17:00 05-02-91 1547 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: RDMAGIC
Wow! Looks to me like you neither eat nor sleep, but you certainly
keep working on RDMAGIC! Will take a look at it asap.
I'm sorry, but I don't recall your "Day of Magic" message. Could you
recap it for me? I haven't had much sleep lately and I'm kinda
groggy...
Msg #1552 Dated 7:49:04 05-02-91 1500 <--> 1554
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: L.A.
Coming in to LAX May 14 and leaving same on 19th. Will be in
Torrence part of the time with Bone Pony (rock band with my
little company). Actually, I used it as a reason to come to LA to
visit. There was a time when I thought I would make my home
there, but LA lost out on the flip of a coin and I went to
Nashville instead. We still think about SoCal as a potential spot
to end as the weather is so agreeable there and close to family
and friends (my mom and sis, niece, nephew are in Napa Valley
area on Clear Lake in Steve Kucera country and Glo's family is in
Wash/Idaho). I was born here cuz of WWII situation in Pax River
Navy Hospitol in 1945. But....hey we were all born in some
fashion and we have less than zero control over that. At least we
all have that in common. No extrawoombical bornings that I know
of unless I'm the odd test tube baby. That could explain a lot of
things.
Will be coordinating with the Sysop. Will be at Raintree in
Torrence 14-15 and in Arleta on the 16-17 and back to rock and
roll on the 18-19. While I'm in Torrence I'll swing by The
Hermosa Bch Magic and Comedy Club to look for Pete Biro's
initials which must be carved in the plaster or woodwork
someplace. I'm on the countdown to retirement as my goal was 45
and I'm 546 months old. I don't know what retirement means to you
but to me it means freedom. Not freedom from worry as it's always
there (hey they could meltdown the whole planet at any minit) but
freedom to persue the varied persuable.
I'm staring at a pile of BP t-shirts to go out and a ton of bulk
mail to their mailing list and getting a note off to you so that
must tell you something. It tells me that music has given me the
heart to persue magic. Magic has given me an edge all the way
through, and though I misused it at one time (decades ago); the
more magic I put into my life, the more I get out of life all the
way around. I follow the rings of Saturn.
Well, I've blown off enuff steam. Maybe I better get this
psychoanalyzed and check into Leonardtown Hospitol. I'd be in
trouble then, for sure. Hope to see you soon.
Msg #1553 Dated 7:50:35 05-02-91 1548 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: HAZZA BOUT SAT.?
Yassuh,
Doesn't look like I'll make it to the Day of Doc on
Saturday. Gloria is in Columbus, GA shooting the qualifier for
the Nat'ls in LA later this summer.
Did spend last weekend with Doc Eason and Ray Mertz and
told Doc I prob wooden make the Virginia lecture. He's got
other friends so he'll be taken good care of. He's off to
Willmington, DE the next morning to lecture there. Its getting
where Doc spends more time on the east cosat than he does in
Colorado these days.
I'll track you down pretty soon and come over and have a
cup of coffee with you or something when Gloria gets home and I
can get outa here again.
Kent Cummins is in Alexandria for next two weeks or so
doing his summer duty and I told him I'd ride up next week in the
evening one day. I'm supposed to call him Sun or Mon and will do
likewise.
Glo promises BS in June soooooo.
Msg #1554 Dated 10:35:44 05-02-91 1552 <--> 1579
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: L.A.
I'm looking forward to it, Tabbo.
While you're at the Comedy & Magic Club in Hermosa Beach....if you get
backstage to the greenroom...check for my name on the wall...I used to
perform there many years ago...I think, since they reorganized the
place, the water cooler is smack in front of my moniker!!! What an
outrage!!! (Remind me to complain to Sparkletts about this!)
Msg #1556 Dated 10:44:01 05-02-91
From: MARVIN STERN
To: BRUCE SANDERCOCK (X)
Re: XXXXX
Welcome back. How was the trip?
You'll be there Monday night won't you? Chinese food before?
Msg #1559 Dated 14:16:44 05-02-91 -> 1561
From: RANDY LUND
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: THE MAGIC! LUNCHEON
GREAT.....I'll start checking air schedules tommorow and let you know!
Randy
Msg #1560 Dated 14:39:47 05-02-91
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: ALL
Re: "DAY-OF-MAGIC II"
:::::::::::::::: IT WAS AN EXPERIMENT LAST YEAR ::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::: THIS YEAR THE EXPERIMENT CONTINUES ::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ANNOUNCING :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> DAY-OF-MAGIC II <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
)))))))))))))))))))))) SPONSORED BY RING 21 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
.
WHEN: Saturday May 4, 1991
Registration begins at: 8:00 am
Lectures begin at: 9:00 am
.
WHERE: UCLA, SHOENBERG HALL/AUDITORIUM
.
COST:
Registration at the door is:....................$55.00 *
Parking in parking structure 5:.................$ 4.00
.
* Registration Includes: 4 sessions of lectures, workshops, and
admission to dealer area plus one ticket to evening show.
.
For more information call Will Chandler at: (818) 284-1776
.
=================================================================
TENTATIVE ITINERARY
=================================================================
09:00 to 10:15 First set of lecture sessions
10:30 to 12:00 Second set of lecture sessions
.
12:00 to 1:30 Lunch and dealers (Food will be available for purchase
from concession stands)
.
01:30 TO 02:45 Third set of lecture sessions
03:00 to 04:30 Forth set of lecture sessions
=================================================================
Lecturers booked thus far include:
.
Johnny Ace Palmer
Mitch Williams
Jeff Hobson
John Kennedy
Dale Salwak
Dennis Forel
Franz Harary
Billy McComb
Vito Lupo
Joycee Beck
Tony Clark
and more...........
.
There will also be a Dealers room and if you are a dealer and would
like to have a booth contact Will Chandler at: (818) 284-1776
(SPACE IS LIMITED)
.
The evening show will be at 6:00 pm with single tickets available to
the public thru Ticket-Master or at the UCLA Box Office
.
SHOW PROGRAM:
.
Jeff Hobson
Loren Michaels
Mitch Williams
Russell Lewis & Co
Malloy
Cyril Takayama
Yours Mime & Ours
PLUS SUPRISE GUESTS......
.
Available to all who are registered, there will be an evening party
after the evening show at UCLA.
.
MANY MORE SURPRISES TO COME!!!!! KEEP YOUR EYES POSTED TO THE NETWORK
FOR DAY-OF-MAGIC II UPDATE INFORMATION!!!!!
Msg #1561 Dated 14:56:51 05-02-91 1559 <--> 1677
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: THE MAGIC! LUNCHEON
Lookin' forward to it! Man, with you and Tabman in town, this is gonna
be _some_ MAGIC! luncheon!
Msg #1562 Dated 15:07:14 05-02-91
From: ERIC RONNE
To: ALL
Re: VEGAS SHOWS
Thanks to those who provided info on "the haps" in Vegas. In
particular, David Vanvranken, Jerry Burton and Dante Larsen.
Msg #1563 Dated 15:11:10 05-02-91
From: ERIC RONNE
To: JEFF BUSBY
Re: THAUMATURGIST
Jeff, after purchasing Bloom's Visible Monte, I received one copy of
the "Thaum." in the mail. I would love to get more! I know only
"active" customers receive it, but I was only given the chance of one
issue (a very good issue, but not one from which I wanted to order).
Can I get on the list once again? thanx.
Msg #1564 Dated 15:53:02 05-02-91 -> 1608
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X)
Re: STAMPS
OK, have arranged an introduction to the committee. Do I have to cut my
hair?
Msg #1565 Dated 15:56:00 05-02-91 -> 1612
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: BUTTON
Am not proud owner of MAGIC button and certificate. Am currently
studying your signature so I can forge a future supply of said buttons,
thereby... actually, I can't think of any amusing reason.
Tanks.
Msg #1566 Dated 16:34:26 05-02-91 -> 1567
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: YOUR OPINION PLEASE.
You bet. And I can't wait until 7 May to see how Steve does in his
lawsuit against Convention he is suing where he hurt himself. I am key
witness... guess I hve to be quiet! Tsk.
Msg #1567 Dated 16:35:37 05-02-91 1542 <--> 1629
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: YOUR OPINION PLEASE.
It is all MAGIC!
Msg #1568 Dated 16:36:16 05-02-91 -> 1569
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ERDNASE
How busby got Erdnase hissef to sign is the real magic!
Msg #1569 Dated 16:36:37 05-02-91 -> 1570
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ERDNASE
I got one and I got the limited edition... with rubbing of Erdnase's
grave dirt.
Msg #1570 Dated 16:37:25 05-02-91 1501 <--> 1595
From: PETE BIRO
To: JEFF BUSBY
Re: ERDNASE
Buzman.... need to get in touch with you about some IMPORTANT STUFF,
but travlin right now. Stay tuned
Msg #1571 Dated 16:39:11 05-02-91 1513 <--> 1572
From: PETE BIRO
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
You want nervous before y
your peers? First close up show I ever did for IBM convention in New
Orleans, walked out from behind the entry and Larry Jennings was
sitting front and center. As soon as I saw him I THREW UP.
Msg #1572 Dated 16:40:51 05-02-91 1531 <--> 1584
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Max, just back from Tahoe, saw show, will review later. Great stuff. Be
in touch...
Msg #1573 Dated 16:42:35 05-02-91 -> 1574
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
Almost more important than the count itself is the pacing. Tamariz says
pracatice with a metronome. I think you probably just need to work at
it more and one THING I STRESS is to get together with someone BETTER
than you are to work on things with. It is like golf, yoiu should
always play against better opponents to learn.
Msg #1574 Dated 16:44:22 05-02-91 1524 <--> 1576
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
I would also suggest NOT READING THE IMPROVED VERSIONS and go to the
Vernon Twisting the Aces for the first lesson.
Msg #1575 Dated 16:43:59 05-02-91
From: BRUCE SANDERCOCK
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: XXXXX
Thanks for the welcome back! I did leave a prior
message for you indicating that I would be there
Monday night. Chinese sounds good. Hope to see you
at the Castle tomorrow.
Msg #1576 Dated 16:45:29 05-02-91 1535 <--> 1588
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
Right MAX, once competant a staggered timing is better. But to get
going on new stuff, I follow Tamariz's thinking... Your point of one
hand staying still is WELL taken. I use Persi's mechanic grip count and
only one hand moves. It is like a 'TAKE' -- learned same thing from an
old hustler doing 2nds. Hand holding deck is ONLY one that moves.
Msg #1577 Dated 16:47:34 05-02-91 -> 1578
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FLYER WUZ ERDNASE
Disregard the Federal Express Collect package I sent you then.
Msg #1578 Dated 16:47:58 05-02-91 1519 <--> 1615
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FLYER WUZ ERDNASE
I hope he has some in big type. I just decided to go UP two sizes in my
book so old guys like me can read them without spy glasses.
Msg #1579 Dated 16:49:49 05-02-91 1554 <--> 1598
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: L.A.
I have inscribed my moniker on said wall too... the Houdini sig is mine
too, a fake, but don't tell anyone. It is a great wall.
Msg #1581 Dated 17:28:38 05-02-91 -> 1631
From: DREW SERNEKOS
To: ALL
Re: MENTALISM
What book(s) is considered the bible of mentalism? After reading the
latest edition of "The Magic Menu" (blatant plug for Jim's Journal) I
realized that my education is lacking in this field of magic.
* drew *
Msg #1584 Dated 17:43:57 05-02-91 1545 <--> 1585
From: MAX MAVEN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
I'll agree that there is a difference between responsibility and
culpability, so let's confine our discussion to the former.
I think a performer has a responsibility to know in advance what
technical requirements he/she will need, and also a responsibility to
convey that information to the producer (or whoever is in charge).
Of course, there are situations where essentially no one is in
charge, and the performer must shoulder all responsibilities. However,
in most professional situations there is indeed a specific person or
group who has that position.
In my own case, I have a contract rider which spells out just what
must be provided by the producer. For example, I contract for a
particular type of microphone. If I show up at the gig and they don't
have the right type of mike, I'll cope with it -- but I maintain it is
not my responsibility to bring my own microphone equipment to insure
against the producer's possible foul-up.
I've played both sides of this. As a producer, I have dealt with
performers who have been woefully unprepared, and who've made last-
minute requests for such items as masking tape, a raw egg, string, and
so on. In these cases, clearly the performer was irresponsible, as they
both neglected to bring what they needed _and_ didn't bother to ask the
producer to supply it until the last moment.
Such instances are annoying and unprofessional; a producer remembers
this type of thing, for future reference.
However, if a performer makes a reasonable tech request in advance
-- such as asking that a tape player be provided -- then as producer
the responsibility shifts to me.
Msg #1585 Dated 18:21:34 05-02-91 1584 <--> 1596
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Well said Max. I love your "No cameas or recording devices, but you can
commit the show to memory" line.... (paraphrased here, owing to my lack
of a recording device.) Note: I videotaped the 2nd show last night for
the cast.
Msg #1586 Dated 18:22:40 05-02-91
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: GREAT SHOW
When you drive across the state line on Hiway 50, within a foot
or two you know you you are in Nevada. Casinos are wall)to)wall,
when you see the sign at CAESARS it boasts "Grand Illusions"
starring Barclay Shaw. Guess I had better stop in and see this
one!Actually that is the reason for my trip. "Gee, its May and its
snowing. Haven't been in snow for years" I thought as I neared S.
Lake Tahoe......Back to "Grand Illusions"... it is produced by David
Belanzon,
directed by some fellow who's name has been here online, M.
Maven.Appearing with Barclay, and knocking them dead, are two great
acts, Goldfinger and Dove and the Magic of Jade. Jack
(Goldfinger) and Dove appear in three segments of the show
featuring their fast)paced magic reaping solid applause time and
time again. My favorite is their "more than HIP" rendition of the
classic 3)Card Monte. This time with their own music (on the CBS
special the TV people changed the music, for financial reasons)
which makes an incredible difference.The appearance of Jade onstage is
a clever illusion made by
Barclay where she is produced from the pages of a book. Page one
is Chung Ling Soo, "Who was really not Chinese, and named
Robinson" ) page two was Okito, "Who again was not Chinese and
was named Bamberg" ) page three "The only woman to ever win the
IBM Gold Medal, IS CHINESE and is here.... the Magic of Jade."Barclay
performs a number of magic items, three of his CLASSIC
Puppet effects, Toto, Clara Cluck and one I had not seen, an
Acrobatic Puppet that works on a high trapeze )) which is one of
the strongest puppet routines I have ever seen.The highlight is
Barclay's amazing LEVITATION... it seems totally
impossible, the girl literally FLOATS AROUND HIM, FULLY AROUND
HIM, right close to the foot lights... to me this is the
ultimate, yet Barclay told me, "It appears old fashioned to me
already... I'm already working on a newer, better one!"The show runs
twice nightly, (3 on Sat.) except Mondays, and
closes May 26... I suggest you make the trip up and see a very
professional, knock out cabaret show.Goldfinger and Dove will be out
for a week, startin this Monday
(replacement, my crazy buddy Mickey O'Connor and his outstanding
comedy juggling) while they fly over to Rome, Italy to appear on
a TV Special with Silvan.
Msg #1588 Dated 19:04:32 05-02-91 1535 <--> 1589
From: STAN LAKE
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
Thanks for the tips on Elmsley counting. Sometimes it's these little
details that help bring it all together.
Msg #1589 Dated 19:07:33 05-02-91 1573 <--> 1590
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
It shouldn't be too difficult to find someone who does a better Elmsley
count than me. I'll just practice on whomever happens to be standing
in line next to me at the Castle. Probably half or more are adept at
cards.
Msg #1590 Dated 19:11:50 05-02-91 1574 <--> 1599
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
Sorry, I made that mistake already of going on to the "new and
improved" version before learning the regular method provided by
Vernon. In which of his works will I find twisting the aces?
Msg #1591 Dated 19:13:34 05-02-91 -> 1617
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
Thank you very much for my Charter Supporter certificate and 2nd
button. Did you know you gave me a button at the first Magic! lunch?
Msg #1595 Dated 19:37:38 05-02-91 1568 <--> 1601
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ERDNASE
Erdnase signed it, too? I was hoping to have mine signed by Robert
Houdin!
Msg #1596 Dated 19:38:55 05-02-91 1571 <--> 1597
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
I guess, as it turned out, Jennings had a REALLY BAD seat!!!
Msg #1597 Dated 19:40:34 05-02-91 1584 <--> 1602
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Well, Max...we're in agreement, as it turns out.
The problems arise when we take for granted that those we deal with are
going to be as meticulous and responsible as we like to believe WE are!
There are inherent dangers in a "pass-the-buck-and-forget-about-it"
approach, which I know is not what you are suggesting.
The performer needs to make some general decisions ahead of time:
If management does not provide what was agreed upon, will the
performer still go on? If yes, then the performer needs to have backup
available for the reasons I've outlined in past messages. If the
performer is content NOT to go on in the event of a management mess-up,
then backup isn't something the performer needs to concern him or
herself with. Once again, (if you'll pardon the colloquialism), it's
the performer's ass out there...the audience doesn't really care who's
fault it is if the show stinks...they're too busy looking for the
nearest exit. Just as in many card effects involving percentages, the
magus always should have an "out."
Msg #1598 Dated 19:56:10 05-02-91 1579 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: L.A.
sure is...I was there about six months ago...and the memories came
flooding back! (fortunately, they were good ones!)
Msg #1599 Dated 20:00:09 05-02-91 1589 <--> 1600
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
I doubt if one in 10 at the Castle can hold a deck of cards properly.
Msg #1600 Dated 20:00:46 05-02-91 1590 <--> 1636
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
I forget, ask Max
Msg #1601 Dated 20:01:02 05-02-91 1595 <--> 1648
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ERDNASE
The Houdin signature is in invisible ink, you have to hold it up nexst
to a copy of Candle in the Dark (only three known copies, I think).
Msg #1602 Dated 20:01:41 05-02-91 1596 <--> 1604
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Actually, I held it in my mouth and swallowed it! First couple of
tricks were.... er.... Actually, I said, "Larry do a trick, I forgot
something" went back let it go into an ash tray, and composed myself.
Boy what an experience!
Msg #1604 Dated 20:26:30 05-02-91 1571 <--> 1605
From: JERRY BURTON
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Sounds like a great act. By the way in the Lupo lecture I was sitting
2 seats from Stan Lake and we were discussing MAGIC! and your name
came up as one of the major conributors to the board.
The guy sitting next to me said, "Oh yea, Pete Biro, very funny guy.
I once saw him produce cigarettes out of the air and throw them
into a bucket, that turned into coins, while on ROLLER SKATES".
Do you care to let the rest of us in on this caper ??
I meant to respond to your parlour car comment and let it slip by.
I was going to say, "Yea, the ultimate in parlour magic".
Burton the Bizzare.
Msg #1605 Dated 20:35:41 05-02-91 1531 <--> 1613
From: JERRY BURTON
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
You obviously chose to miss my point.
This discussion reminds me of a poem.
.
In matters controversial
my perceptions rather fine,
I always see BOTH points of view,
the one that's wrong and MINE.
.
It must be a great view from the Mt. Olympus of Magic.
Msg #1606 Dated 21:05:59 05-02-91
From: JERRY BURTON
To: ALL
Re: DAVID ABRAM
Does anyone know David Abram ? He wrote a very interesting preface
to Vito Lupo's notes, entitled "The Joker is Wild". He had some
good points on whether magic truly exists and I was wondering
who he is.
Msg #1607 Dated 21:43:46 05-02-91 -> 1626
From: JOHN JOLLY
To: ALL
Re: BICYCLES
Here's some info on the Bicycle Poker Rider Back (808)
quality subject. I recently purchased several decks and
have discovered what I think are cards approaching the
"old" quality. Here are some things to look for:
Both decks (good'uns and the not-so-good'uns) are sold in
cellophane wrapped pegboard packages. The good ones approach
the old "casino" USPC products. The other ones have a sticky
feel; not slick at all and appear to be a little thinner (I
think someone mentioned on MAGIC that they are now made with
fewer plys). They also warp from temperature changes like
crazy. Anyway, here's what I found. The packaging is
identical except that the red on the GOOD box is
darker than the other box; all numbers and markings on the boxes are
otherwise the same (UPC #73854 00808). The good decks have no
"zip strip"( what the heck do you call those plastic
"openers") under the cellophane. The BAD decks have a clear
opener strip with "Bicycle" in color on the strip. The BAD
boxes also have two small slits on the stamp side of the box
at the top, 10mm in from each side and about 2mm long;
probably from the machine that folds the boxes...the good deck
boxes do not have these marks.
Inside ....the bad decks have an "extra joker" advertising
card printed in one color (black) Good decks have this card
printed in three colors (blue, red, black). My bad decks have
an advertising card for a travel club membership B/W a list of
card playing books for sale. Good decks advertise Mike
Joseph's Video "Secrets of a Card Sharp"($24.95, comes with a
free deck, order today!)B/W the offer for the card books.
Got a hold of a couple of "good" decks today and will go back
and get a few more now that I know what to look for. $1.45 at
the BX (There are some privileges of being in the military!)
bye 'fer now
jj
.............................!poof!
Msg #1608 Dated 22:01:38 05-02-91 1564 <-
From: MICHAEL AMMAR
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
You'll get a package of stuff tomorrow, or Saturday at the latest.
Holy Moly! I'll be in touch...
Msg #1610 Dated 22:48:42 05-02-91 -> 1621
From: MICHAEL AMMAR
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: SURVEY
You asked whether or not a survey had been done on public opinions of
magic. A fascinating idea! I've been interested in conducting a
survey amonge magicians for years. I designed and convinced Adam to
survey the attendees of the New York Magic Symposiums years ago, and
they produced many revelations. Last year I wrote an eight (8) page
survey, which I passed out during my lectures in the Northeast. The
questions were designed to find out"
Where we performed most often
what styles most identified with
what is their source of industry information
what types of articles interest them in magazines
what roles they feel the SAM and the IBM are playing in the future of
magic.
Specifically what functions they value at conventions
What their personal motives are for attending conventions
What is their most influential source of performing material
Where they spend their magic dollar
How their spending has changed over the last 5 years
What they value in a mail order business
Hall of fame infor
Who we are, demographically
The source of inspiration for, and at what age, the current generation
became involved in magic
As you can see, it was pretty involved
I gathered about 250 completed - only about ha took the time. It needs
edited down about 25%, and I'm having it typeset and reformatted by a
local survey group. They are putting it into a format that can be
tabulated by a computer. I figure, if somebody can't put the info into
a pie chart, forget it!
My plan is to take advantage of the 1,000 people gathered at the SAM in
Vegas, and the 2,200 at FISM to start the ball rolling, but ultimately,
I'd like to survey the entire grass roots USA>
The idea started when trying to achieve Diplomatic Status for Cultural
Exchanges. You know, Official Ambassador of Goodwill, and all that!
Msg #1612 Dated 23:12:10 05-02-91 1565 <--> 1624
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: BUTTON
Glad to hear that your MAGIC! button and certificate arrived OK. I am
a reasonable expert at scanning and reworking signatures myself -
that's why you'll find that the REAL buttons contain devices designed
to react under certain types of treatments (won't say what).
Msg #1613 Dated 23:17:27 05-02-91 1571 <--> 1630
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
One would hope that your efluvia were not directed at either Jennings
or other members of the audience. I'm sure, however, that as an opener
this was quite an attention grabber.
Msg #1614 Dated 23:14:21 05-02-91 1544 <-
From: MANNY WELTMAN
To: PAT HOLCOMBE (X)
Re: HOUDINI
If you send me a self addressed stamped envelope (long one), I will
make you a copy of my article on her 1936 seance. It has all (well
nearly all) the information on it. What it does not tell you is that
the recording you hear of the seance was NOT taken at the time, but
recorded about a weel later in a Pasadena recording studio, from the
script that Saint had read from at the seance. Only what Bess said
was different on the record then what she said at the seance. My
address is: P.O. Box 2184 Van Nuys, Ca 91404. Looking forward to
hearing from you.
Msg #1615 Dated 23:27:26 05-02-91 1577 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: FLYER WUZ ERDNASE
Fed Ex arrived this morning. Rather than paying for it, I forwarded it
to MARVIN STERN. Sent him a fax telling him to expect it. Don't
worry, he's gonna accept it - somehow the fax got garbled and seemed to
indicate that the package contained some Pai-Gow secrets from Geno.
Msg #1617 Dated 23:39:39 05-02-91 1591 <--> 1665
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
Urp! A burp in my database! As I was assigning the new one to you I
kept thinking, "but he has one." Oh, well, now you have two...
P.S. - Just for the record, would you let me know the two numbers?
Msg #1621 Dated 23:56:40 05-02-91 1610 <--> 1662
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X)
Re: SURVEY
Wow! If you'd like to publish your results here, we'd be delighted!
Msg #1624 Dated 0:24:30 05-03-91 1612 <--> 1627
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BUTTON
You were telling the truth! I tried to run the button through my
scanner, and what did it do, but multiply! First it became two, then
four, then EIGHT buttons, all identical to the original but for one
subtle difference -- these cloned buttons had RAZOR SHARP EDGES!
They spotted me instantly, then gave immediate chase. I ran through
the apartment, outside, back in, out the fire stairs... Finally the
little buggers ran out of energy or something, and melded back into the
original button.
Or maybe I just had some bad fish.
Msg #1626 Dated 0:32:39 05-03-91 1607 <--> 1633
From: EVAN KATZ
To: JOHN JOLLY (X)
Re: BICYCLES
This is fascinating -- apparently indicating there are two distinct
levels of quality, exactly the opposite of what the company spokesman
told David Licthman!
Your observations confirm intuition and explain a lot. What I'm
wondering is if this is simply a differenc in AGE. Could the "good"
cards be older? This seems like a good explanation, except I remember
David's message saying that the company changed the plant and
manufacturing techniques MANY years ago.
Hm.
Msg #1627 Dated 0:34:56 05-03-91 1624 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: BUTTON
Yeah. You should only buy Mother's Whitefish and Pike.
Msg #1628 Dated 0:37:02 05-03-91 -> 1632
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: CARDZ
David--
What's your reaction to msg #1607. Is the U.S. Playing Card
Company bald-faced LYING to you, or what?
Frankly, that message confirms all of our intuitions, but is in
DIRECT contradiction to everything we've been told.
What's the truth! Have we discovered conspiracy in our midsts!
WHAT GIVES!
Msg #1629 Dated 0:53:26 05-03-91 1567 <--> 1643
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: YOUR OPINION PLEASE.
Depends on what you define as magic -- which is, of course, the subject
of this thread. Again -- I disagree.
Msg #1630 Dated 0:55:32 05-03-91 1545 <--> 1635
From: T A WATERS
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
I dunno -- if I ask for equipment from a venue and am told it will be
available, it is then THEIR responsibility to provide the equipment. I
should not have to be doing other people's job for them or, for that
matter, have to worry about it. When I was doing stage work in NYC,
not only did we have someone to do the makeup for each actor, but in at
least a couple of cases we were FORBIDDEN to bring our own makeup,
because the producer/director wanted to retain that control.
Msg #1631 Dated 1:07:10 05-03-91 1581 <--> 1659
From: T A WATERS
To: DREW SERNEKOS (X)
Re: MENTALISM
On mentalism: try THIRTEEN STEPS TO MENTALISM by Corinda -- THE MENTAL
MYSTERIES OF WILLIAM W. LARSEN SR., edited by WWL Jr. -- and ANNEMANN'S
PRACTICAL MENTAL EFFECTS edited by Crimmins. (This last is also
available from Dover as PRACTICAL MENTAL MAGIC. I'd also give you a
list of books to avoid -- but it would be too long...
Msg #1632 Dated 1:15:16 05-03-91 1628 <--> 1642
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARDZ
R-r-r-r-r... Mummble, mummble... All I can say for certain is that so
far U.S.P.C. hasn't even returned/replaced the decks I sent 'em. I
tried to do voice stress analysis on the phone with their guy and, for
the most, part he appeared to be telling the genuine story. And it
held up, pretty much the same, over the various phone calls. But I
always did feel that he didn't reveal anything he wasn't asked. So we
spent a lot of time discussing the various colors/types of zip tapes,
but he never said there were any with NO tapes. My personal suspicion
is that the deck described in message # 1607 is, indeed, an OLD deck.
Msg #1633 Dated 1:19:19 05-03-91 1607 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JOHN JOLLY (X)
Re: BICYCLES
John - I'm curious. Could you tell us the letter/number code that
appears at the bottom of the Ace of Spades of each deck?
Msg #1635 Dated 2:08:07 05-03-91 1585 <--> 1637
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Glad you liked the line -- a gift from Tony Andruzzi. Hope the video
came out well; I'll look forward -to seeing it.
Msg #1636 Dated 2:22:44 05-03-91 1600 <--> 1651
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
"More Inner Secrets" by Ganson.
Msg #1637 Dated 2:23:05 05-03-91 1605 <--> 1639
From: MAX MAVEN
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Cute.
Msg #1639 Dated 2:43:19 05-03-91 1637 <--> 1641
From: MAX MAVEN
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
No, not cute. I wasn't going to respond beyond a one-word
acknowledgement, but I'm leaving Hollywood this morning, and would
rather not be irritated this weekend thinking about your comment
regarding Mt. Olympus.
You seem to be chafing at what you perceive as elitism. I think the
situation is somewhat different. I've made comments concerning how I
assess the general level of knowledge among magicians, and I believe
those observations have been objective. Sorry if it bothers you that
there's reason for me to consider my own level of knowledge better than
average -- you may find it arrogant, but I've paid for it in the form
of thirty-three years of study and effort.
Mt. Olympus? Hardly. My store of knowledge is excellent in some
areas, lacking in others. For instance, I'll gladly defer to David
Lichtman when it comes to computers. He knows far, far more about that
subject than I, and there's nothing wrong with him stating so. Given
his background and experience, he should be able to proclaim that
simple fact without being considered an elitist.
And, in my own field, so should I.
Msg #1640 Dated 5:55:23 05-03-91
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: JEFF BUSBY
Re: DYTE TUPE
That explains a lot concerning the Paul Fox Dye Tube. I've been on the
lookout for many years looking for that Dye Tube (ever since seeing it
the Vernon Revelations tape), but with absolutely no luck.
Interesting!
Charlie
Msg #1641 Dated 8:38:23 05-03-91 1604 <--> 1649
From: PETE BIRO
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
You gotta watch out who you sit next to. Yep, I used to (30-years ago)
be a fairly decent free style roller skater... Did magic act several
times on big stages wearing the wheels! Got to get back into that.
Msg #1642 Dated 8:42:35 05-03-91 1632 <--> 1644
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARDZ
Pai Gow secrets? I would like that recipe. I am getting tired of Almond
Chicken. Friend promised to teach me to make pot stickers when show
closes!
Msg #1643 Dated 8:43:29 05-03-91 1629 <--> 1714
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: YOUR OPINION PLEASE.
Based on that, the only person in our lifetime doing magic must be Uri
Geller.
Msg #1644 Dated 8:47:22 05-03-91 1642 <--> 1646
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CARDZ
Try substituting Cashew Nuts and Turkey. Who do you think I am? Julia
Childs?
Msg #1646 Dated 9:35:39 05-03-91 1632 <--> 1647
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CARDZ
But didn't he say that the old plant closed down like EIGHT years ago?
I remember something like that.
Msg #1647 Dated 9:55:04 05-03-91 1646 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CARDZ
I believe that he indicated that the plant that closed was the one in
Nevada and that the closing had occurred a couple of years ago. I
suspect that decks can get caught in the distribution pipeline and can
wander aimlessly about for years. It would not surprise me to learn
that an eight or ten year old deck could still be found in a store.
USPC has very close to a monopoly on playing cards in the U.S. Like
any monopoly, they are pretty complacent about their product, shipping,
etc.
Msg #1648 Dated 10:37:21 05-03-91 1601 <--> 1687
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ERDNASE
I wasn't aware of any copies with a Houdin signature, Pete! I was
talking about a Houdini signature....the "i" must have escaped!
Msg #1649 Dated 10:38:24 05-03-91 1602 <--> 1650
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Thanx for sharing that, Pete........and just before lunch, too!
Msg #1650 Dated 10:40:47 05-03-91 1630 <--> 1653
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
When I am taping or filming, I ALWAYS bring along a small "emergency"
makeup kit. If the makeup person isn't qualified, I will "fix" it in
the privacy of my dressing room. Once, when I showed up on location
for a shoot, I was informed that there was NO makeup artist...he failed
to show up. Of course, they were going to shoot my closeups anyway...I
retired to my trailer and was ready when camera was!
The point is...NO, it's NOT my job to do these things, but YES, it IS
to my benefit to be prepared, so that the negligence of others doesn't
screw up MY work!
Msg #1652 Dated 11:28:55 05-03-91 -> 1678
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: MUSIC CITY CONCLAVE
Am back at work on the Music City Conclave as adv
deadline is coming up soon. Still waiting to hear from a couple
of lecturers, but it's pretty much in place. You gotta fax
number?
There will be a computer there with Burton The Bizarre's
software and a disk full of the message base, plus uploads
and downloads regularly. I intend to have the first convention in
which MAGIC! plays an intergral part. Hopefully the Sysop will be
able to attend as well. There will be a symposium Saturday nite
at 8pm with a panel of experts moderated tentatively by non other
than Pete Biro.
The Vandy Holiday Inn is excited about hosting a
Magician's gathering and my music friends think it's a cool idea.
The reason I chose Nashville, outside the obvious, is simple.
After having attended Close Encounters (a small well run conclave
of about 70), Desert Magic Seminar (a large well run convention
of more than I felt like counting) and 21st FFFF (an intimate
meeting of about 150 friends) I realized that Nashville was the
hub of a population of Magicians who would enjoy events of this
type, but within driving distance - after work Friday and home by
supper Sunday - who because of family obligations might otherwise
miss this opportunity for fun, most of it good and most of it
clean.
I'll be happy to involve anyone on MAGIC! in some way,
even if it's invite you to attend. My intention is to have 150
participants, most of whom will hopefully be from the Atlanta,
Birmingham, Memphis, Louisville, Knoxville circle. The weather
might be bad that time of year and we could be starting as late
as midnight Friday, but hopefully the sun will shine and we can
get going at 10p.
My specialty is promoting one day - all day - events, but
the past few "parties" had a group still here the next day, so I
guess you could say I've moved into the two day catagory, though
not by design. On Sunday, Jan 12, the event will close with a
brunch featuring Richard Hatch's interesting slide presentation
of his work involving the translation of The Magic of J.N.
Hofzinser before hand. Richard still has copies of the
translation, though it is now out of print. One of the most read
books on my shelf.
Since I've got food allergies the meals included in the
ticked at FFFF and CEMK got to me and others (no afront on their
grub as I saw many magi eating tons of it), so, no; there are
dozens of great restaurants near the hotel plus one inside. It's
right next to Vanderbilt University and close to Price's Egyptian
Hall. Mr. Price is getting up in years and I don't want to ask
him if I can bring 150 of my friends by to see his stuff so I
won't do it. As for me, I enjoy just being close and knowing
about the great magic in Nashville.
I will post the schedule, line up, etc the day I mail the
adv to Genii.
*************
ONE QUESTION THOUGH.
Thoughts on pricing the seats would be welcome. The budget of the
Conclave is exactly 150 times the ticket price. Have seen one day
stuff from 25 to 65. Two day 65 to 75. Three day 125. I was
thinking 65. Does that sound about right?
Msg #1653 Dated 11:54:53 05-03-91 1641 <--> 1657
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Are you crazy?
Msg #1654 Dated 13:45:00 05-03-91 -> 1669
From: MARVIN STERN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: FRI
Did you see that?!!!
Msg #1655 Dated 13:46:45 05-03-91 -> 1690
From: MARVIN STERN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: PETE BIRO
Tell me more -- On top of a table, in 30 mile per hour winds, at
Terminal Island ?
Msg #1656 Dated 13:49:56 05-03-91 -> 1670
From: MARVIN STERN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: JR.
Almost forgot. I was right. $595 less 10% w/o case.
Msg #1657 Dated 13:52:08 05-03-91 1650 <--> 1688
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Amen.
Msg #1659 Dated 14:00:29 05-03-91 1631 <--> 1691
From: DREW SERNEKOS
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: MENTALISM
Thanks for the book recommendations. I will be making a trip to
Tannen's Magic next week to pick up some reading material.
* drew *
Msg #1660 Dated 14:36:42 05-03-91 1574 <--> 1664
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
Amazing! I was going to suggest the same trick, but for some
reason it sounds better coming from you. I agree that it should
be used as lesson one but for some reason, I don't have much luck
with it with a spectator (victim?). There doesn't seem to be much
logic behind why I would want to turn over the Aces that way in
the first place! However it is still a great solitaire exercise
for the Elmsley Count (my personal favorite move). I've had
excellent response with what I would recommend as Lesson Two,
(only after Lesson one is 100% PERFECT!) also from Vernon's Book.
It includes audience participation (as many as are willing), has
built in misdirection, and emphasizes the importance of rythym in
the count.
It goes something like this:
Offer to "teach" everyone a trick (this is my third trick in a
set). Hand four cards to each participant and keep four for
yourself. Emphasize that the values don't matter, just that they
ar all facing the same way (face down). "Neatness counts!"
(excuse for keeping packet squared during the counts).
"Turn the first card over and place it on the bottom."
"Take the next card and just place it on the bottom."
"Turn the packet over"
"Take the bottom card, turn it over and put it back on the
bottom, turn the top card over and place it back on top."
This sets you up for an Elmsley count (third card face up) and
confuses the daylights out of the others. If done right, they
don't know which way is up!
The odd Elmsley fingertip grip from Vernon is explained by trying
to be "open and fair, with no funny moves" as if you don't even
want to handle them in the first place.
Continue: " Count your cards, you should have one, two, three,
four face down cards." this sets the stage for your Elmsley,
timed to the spoken count while they are counting their own, only
casually observing yours. ( the built in misdirection is GREAT!)
Of course they must have "messed up somewhere, lets's try again"
Don't change the position of your cards! After the count, you
should have face up card on bottom. Have them straighten their
cards and repeat the sequence SLOWLY and CAREFULLY emphasizing
the fairness. On the counting sequence, their cards will still
have one face up while yours are ALL (legitimately) face down!
Repeat as necessary! (but not too long please!)
Actually I've kept a table going for nearly two hours with this
one alone but that was the exception. I even remember the pilot
once coming on the speaker pleading with everyone to return to
their seats after stewardess and passengers blocked the aisles
for quite a while!
This gets everyone involved and you can have a lot of fun with it.
I'll try to find the name of the book it's in unless someone
beats me to it.
There are many variations that can be thrown in. I've been shown
some by Geno Munari and Mike Skinner. Steve Dacri's video has a
gaffed version using a double backer that demonstrates the
audience involvement quite well.
Have Fun!
David
Msg #1662 Dated 15:34:57 05-03-91 1621 <--> 1672
From: MICHAEL AMMAR
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: SURVEY
There will certainly be something of interest, I would think, but I
don't expect to be done for about a year. I want to personally conduct
the survey in as many cities as possible - not just at one convention
or from one mailing. But I'll certainly keep you posted!
Msg #1665 Dated 15:52:54 05-03-91 1617 <--> 1674
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
The first one you gave me was #26. I thougt it would have been a lower
number but I was just happy to have one. The second one I just
received was #5. I'm even happier!
Msg #1666 Dated 16:10:16 05-03-91
From: EVAN KATZ
To: ALL
Re: P&T APPEARANCE
Just say Penn & Teller on the Joan Rivers show.
First, they discussed why the expose tricks -- to distance themselves,
Penn said, from magicians who condescend to the audience. I found this
interesting in that much of Penn's humor consists of insult humor
directed at the audience, but oh well...
For their first effect, they each took a dry, uncooked bean, put it in
their mouths, made wild gyrations, then plucked a bean from their eyes.
Yes, they really did secret beans in under the lower lid of their
eyes. Next they did the chair leviation with Joan Rivers. Gimmick was
hid in a blanket they strapped on her.
Dat's all!
s
Msg #1667 Dated 16:12:46 05-03-91
From: EVAN KATZ
To: ALL
Re: D-O-M
Looking forward to seeing whoever's going to be at Day of Magic
tomorrow.
Msg #1669 Dated 16:26:22 05-03-91 1654 <--> 1675
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: FRI
Did I see what?
Msg #1670 Dated 16:27:13 05-03-91 1656 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: JR.
OK, thanks. Don't really think I'm ready for one yet, but I appreciate
your looking into it for me.
Msg #1672 Dated 16:30:08 05-03-91 1662 <--> 1680
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X)
Re: SURVEY
Great! Any survey results you decide to share along the way will be
appreciated. I'd like to get some input from folks on a survery/focus
group of CONSUMERS related to magic. I'll be that "on the outside,
it's a whole different story..."
Msg #1674 Dated 16:36:06 05-03-91 1665 <--> 1724
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
The first one (#26) is a number assigned by pre-reservation for the
original MAGIC! luncheon. The second one (#5) is the one assigned to
you as a financial supporter of MAGIC! Five is actually the FIRST
button assigned to a contributor - meaning that you were the FIRST
person to make a financial contribution to MAGIC! The numbers below it
were assigned as follows:
# 1 - Assigned to contest winner who entered the winning slogan
# 2 - Assigned to Sysop (me).
# 3/4 - Assigned to members of the MAGIC! Advisory Board.
Msg #1675 Dated 16:43:34 05-03-91 1669 <--> 1682
From: MARVIN STERN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FRI
Forget it. It was when we left the Castle today. If you saw it, you
would know what I was referring to, as one could not forget it.
Msg #1677 Dated 17:37:26 05-03-91 1561 <--> 1718
From: RANDY LUND
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: THE MAGIC! LUNCHEON
David, I'll be arriving Thurs eve at 9:28 on Northwest Flight 305 from Minneapo
lis
and will be leaving Saturday Morning at 8:20. COuld you please,
.
* Recommend a good motel/hotel in an appropriate location and
.
* give me some directions to the Magic Castle (I have never been in LA
before)
.
* Suggest something, preferably magical to do fri eve.
.
I got the fri off today and when I told my manager that I was plannig
on going to LA for lunch I got this rather strange look. The dutch who
inhabit this area are very conservative and doing soething like this is
not much different to them than taking a ride on the shuttle. See you
soon, Randy L
Msg #1678 Dated 17:50:05 05-03-91 1652 <--> 1684
From: JERRY BURTON
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MUSIC CITY CONCLAVE
Sounds like a real blast.
.
Have you had a chance to play around with RDMAGIC yet ?
.
As I get the entire database together I keep coming up
with more goodies I want the program to do for me and
would like to have some input from anyone else using it.
.
What is user friendly for me, may be a total disaster
for someone else. I'm going to check with David
regarding the MAGIC! luncheon, and if my schedule
permits and there is still space, I'll bring a disk
of the MAGIC.TXT file (which has all 21 volumes as
one file) and the MAGIC.IDX (which is just the msg
headers, from, to, and subject,) and the latest-greatest
version of RDMAGIC (since it changes daily - will probably
have to freeze it soon for general release).
.
Hope to see you there,
.
Regards - Burton the Bizzare
Msg #1680 Dated 18:06:09 05-03-91 1621 <-
From: RANDY LUND
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: SURVEY
Why doesn't Micheal load is survey form onto MAGIC! and get that group
as well?
Msg #1682 Dated 19:52:45 05-03-91 1675 <--> 1689
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: FRI
Oh! You mean the fantastic looking lady in the skin-tight mini, high
heels, and gloves? Yeah! I saw her.
Msg #1684 Dated 20:31:09 05-03-91 1678 <--> 1896
From: TABBY CRABB
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: MUSIC CITY CONCLAVE
Send me a copy when you get a beta test. My modem commando
tactics do not allow me the time to download large files. I have
been following your thread with the Sysop with interest as what
you're doing sounds like just the ticket and something we had
discussed in the past.
RDMAGIC! sounds like it will be TAPMAGIC! by the time of the
Conclave and will allow for interactive reply off line. The
computer is the illusion of intelligence anyway requiring little
in the way of personality to satisfy its' binary soul - assuming,
as I do, that they do have a soul.
Msg #1687 Dated 21:29:35 05-03-91 1648 <--> 1704
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ERDNASE
Right! (Pronounced ala Jim Healey -- the one guy in L.A. I miss!)
Msg #1688 Dated 21:30:42 05-03-91 1653 <--> 1702
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
What does Vito Lupo have to do with this thread?
Msg #1689 Dated 21:32:58 05-03-91 1682 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FRI
I saw here and I'm 569 miles North!
Msg #1690 Dated 21:33:30 05-03-91 1655 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: PETE BIRO
I forget what we were talking about. Termnal Island? I did a show once
in the wind for the Budweiser distributor on a table in the wind?
Msg #1691 Dated 21:34:25 05-03-91 1659 <--> 1703
From: PETE BIRO
To: DREW SERNEKOS (X)
Re: MENTALISM
Try the Library. Tannens? Ech... send to Abbott's first.
Msg #1692 Dated 21:36:05 05-03-91 1660 <--> 1723
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
Sounds great. Good idea concept wise too. I have in my collection the
actual Elmsley Four Card Trick... I learned the mechanic's grip
version years back from a gambler/magician pal. I can still remember
seeing Twisting The Aces for the first time, and being totally baffled,
even though I thought I knew magic!
Msg #1695 Dated 21:57:23 05-03-91 -> 1700
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: RENUMBERING
Didn't want you to feel unapreciated. Thanks for the party I'm having
a great time. Without you this wouldn't be here. Uh, by the way, could
you pass an hors d'oeuvre?....
Msg #1696 Dated 21:57:59 05-03-91
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: HAUNTINGS
Thanks for the refferal.
Msg #1699 Dated 22:27:31 05-03-91 -> 1775
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC! SPECIAL
I am please to announce that second specially autographed magic book to
be offered as to MAGIC! members I am now taking orders for _THE MAGIC
OF MICHAEL AMMAR_. Michael has graciously consented to participate by
signing a personalized autograph to those who purchase his book through
me here on MAGIC! 10% of all proceeds are donated to the operational
expenses of MAGIC! It is fundraisers like these that help make it
possible that there are no dues to belong to MAGIC!
This new book is 8 1/2 x 11, Hardbound with 328 Acid Free pages with
over 500 high quality illustrations. This is so good I've got to
reprint some of the quotes from the Promo Piece here:
David Copperfield: "In the chapter on Classic Renditions, you can learn
the "how's" and "why's" behind two of the closeup effects which have
earned tremendous results for me. They've held their own in the company
of the most grand illusions, yet both effects can be carried along with
your spare change in a single pocket, ready in an instant under the
most demanding conditions. It's hard to imagine that any student of
magic wouldn't consider them required reading in Magic 101. The end
result is a book that doesn't just teach, but also inspires. In the
magic industry, Michaerl is truly a magician's magician. Fortunately he
is also one of magic's best teachers."
Louis Falanga, Publisher: "...His flawless technique, his professional
standards, and his teaching ability are near legendary, but Michael's
influence goes far beyond his record of awards. I believe Ammar has
literally lead the industry in shaping the thinking and performing of
this generation of magicians. L&L Publishing is proud to present the
definitive work of the magic, psycology, and self management of this
master magician."
Michael Ammar: "I've never worked harder, or longer on anything I've
ever done. I wanted to go beyond just 'telling how things are done.'
When people ask what I do, I wanted to be able to say 'I'm a Magician
and a Writer.' not 'I'm a Magician and a Tell'er How'er.' Good writing
teaches and inspires, and I confess to those aspirations...I approached
this book with the attitude that this book, probably more than anything
else, will be what I proudly hand my grandchildren, someday in the
distant future, to show 'em what I did with my life."
In _The Magic Of Michael Ammar_ you'll find concise explanations of:
6 commercial stand up routines, 12 powerful utility devices, 4 routines
specifically designed for making reputations, classic renditions of two
of the most significant close-up effects of our time, 8 thought
provoking philosophical essays, 6 practical effects for casual
situations, Michaels Stand Up Cups and Balls Routine, 13 entertaining
routines for restaurant performances, 12 bonus items, Plus!-making your
magic memorable, AND How you can negotiate higher performance fees.
PLUS!,PLUS! 6 profitable self management forms ready for immediate use!
If you are considering magic as a career _this is probably the most
complete magic book ever written._
To get your special AUTOGRAPHED copy send $39.95 plus $2.50 postage and
handling to:Burt Carpenter
23900 Ironwood Ave. #B-126
Moreno Valley, CA 92387
by May 20, 1991. That gives me time to get the books in stock before
Michael arrives here to visit the first week in June. He will autograph
the books at that time and then I will ship you yours. Don't miss out
on this Once In a Lifetime Opportunity. All orders received after May
20 will not be autographed but the 10% will still be donated to help
support MAGIC! If you have not yet done so I also recommend you
download the file BOOKSALE.TXT to see all the other titles available
that will help support MAGIC!
Msg #1700 Dated 22:28:45 05-03-91 1695 <--> 1726
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: RENUMBERING
Alas, my problem is that I CAN'T pass an hors d'oeuvre. This, of
course, has two results:
1) I'm having GOODYEAR tatooed on my sides this weekend.
2) I don't get invited to parties given by others - seems
I'm too expensive to have around.
Msg #1701 Dated 22:57:32 05-03-91 -> 1805
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: MAC ADVICE
DITTO !
Msg #1702 Dated 23:29:29 05-03-91 1688 <--> 1713
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
It's obvious, Pete...he's the only one who hasn't thrown in his
two-cents worth!
Msg #1703 Dated 23:31:04 05-03-91 1691 <--> 1716
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MENTALISM
Abbott's?
Hmmm...do you have their...awwww....nevermind!
Msg #1704 Dated 23:34:33 05-03-91 1687 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ERDNASE
Nice thing to say to someone who lives in L.A.!
(Kidding...Lord knows I'm not THAT thin-skinned!)
Msg #1705 Dated 23:38:42 05-03-91 -> 1715
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: GENII
I had lunch with Tony Giorgio at the Castle today...and we talked
about, among other things, his series of letters being published in the
"Intermission" section of Genii, thanks to Jim Patton.
Tony is a legendary cardman and he is certainly opinionated about most
everything...and, whether you agree with Tony or not, you've got to
give his opinions a serious look because of his incredible background
and expertise. He's been there and is an expert on the "real work,"
especially in gambling with cards...and the application of the work in
magic. He's got some strong thoughts about Erdnase that he'll be
sharing with Genii readers in the coming months...the first
"introductory" letter just having been published. Stay tuned and watch
out for the sparks!
Msg #1706 Dated 0:17:57 05-04-91 -> 1707
From: JOHN JOLLY
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: BICYCLES
David, to answer your question of the # on the Aces of Spades... its
N1601 in each case, hope this helps. I wen't back to buy a bunch more
of the "non zip tape" decks
and found that my statement about the small slits was false.
good and bad decks seem to have the slits...oh well. Best of luck!
jj
...........................!poof!
Msg #1707 Dated 0:23:17 05-04-91 1706 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JOHN JOLLY (X)
Re: BICYCLES
VERY INTERESTING! N 1601 is a RECENT number (from what I understand of
the numbering system). As a matter of fact, it MAY be the same number
on my "bad" decks! Hmmmmm...... no tear strip and they have recent
numbers - maybe the good decks are the counterfeits!
Msg #1709 Dated 0:32:08 05-04-91 -> 1712
From: JOHN JOLLY
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: BICYCLES
David, You and Evan like the theory that the good decks are older but
they are the ones with the ad card for the Mike Joseph Card Sharp
Video...Would these be EIGHT years old???
jj
....................!poof!
Msg #1711 Dated 0:34:48 05-04-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: INSIDE MAGIC
From the News page of Inside Magic (May, 1991):
------------------------------------------------------------------
MAGIC!, the computer communications system for magicians, made a
bit of history at Joe Steven's Desert Magic Seminar on March 22.
More precisely, 34,816 "bits" of history when Johnny Ace Palmer
became the first known magician to have a live performance picture
"captured" via computer and transmitted internationally. Images
of Palmer performing were recorded by electronic cameras, then fed
into a computer at the Tropicana and reformatted for transmission
to MAGIC!'s own host computer in Los Angeles. Within minutes the
image was retransmitted to MAGIC-NL, the European affiliate
located in the Netherlands. Once stored on these two systems, the
"picture" could be viewed on computer screens by computer-using
magicians around the world. The following day, winners of the
competition were also transmitted. To join MAGIC!, use your
computer's communications package to dial U.S. (818) 896-7450.
Once connected, follow the on-screen instructions to register.
MAGIC-NL in the Netherlands can be accessed by dialing country
code 31, city code 23 and the phone number 38-8725.
------------------------------------------------------------------
Inside Magic is an excellent source of information about magical
activites. This issue, for example, in addition to the regular
information on live shows, cruises, television programs, book
reviews, etc. also features a special report on magic in amusement
parks across the U.S. and around the World.
A year's subscription to Inside Magic, mailed first class every
month, is $24 within the U.S. and $34 overseas. If you mention
that you are a MAGIC! member and that you want MAGIC!'s Special
Subscription Offer your subscription will include (while supplies
last) a very nice Doug Henning Souvenir Booklet.
To subscribe to Inside Magic, contact Stan Allen at (213)
531-0953, fax (213) 408-2588, or write to him at 4067 Hardwick
Street, Suite 322, Lakewood, Ca 90712.
Msg #1712 Dated 0:50:14 05-04-91 1709 <--> 1748
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JOHN JOLLY (X)
Re: BICYCLES
What's wrong with eight-year old card sharps? I've got a 2-1/2 year
old who is pretty good with a miniature deck. OK, so he can't do a
great Elmsley yet.
Msg #1713 Dated 0:58:07 05-04-91 1650 <--> 1742
From: T A WATERS
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Indeed it is always best to be prepared -- but that shouldn't mean you
should be criticized if you are not prepared to do someone else's job
because they didn't.
Msg #1714 Dated 0:59:28 05-04-91 1643 <-
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: YOUR OPINION PLEASE.
Certainly Geller has been considered by much of the populace to be a
true magician -- not an imitation one, like most...
Msg #1715 Dated 1:04:50 05-04-91 1705 <--> 1728
From: T A WATERS
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: GENII
Tony Giorgio's show in the Closeup room, many years ago, was one of the
strongest I have ever seen.
Msg #1716 Dated 1:19:01 05-04-91 1691 <--> 1727
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MENTALISM
Actually, Pete, I DID check out the library today. The one at
Cal. State Northridge. Found listings for two books that might
interest you:
AUTHOR: Del Rio, Martin Antoine, 1551-1608.
TITLE: Disqvisitionvm magicarvm libri sex. Qvibvs continetvr accvrata
cvriosarvm artivm, & vanarvm svperstitionum confutatio vtilis
theologis, iurisconsultis, medicis, philologis. Auctore
Martino Del Rio. Prodit opus vltimis curis longe & auctius
& castigatius.
IMPRINT: Lvgdvni, Apud I. Pillehotte, 1608.
PHYSICAL FEATURES: 12 p. ., 553 p. 36 cm.
SUBJECTS: Magic --Early works to 1800. * Witchcraft --Early work to
1800.
Location Type Number # Status
SPCOLL NOCIRC BF1600 .D5 1608 1 In Library
(The above means, "Sorry, it doesn't leave the library. You have to go
down to the basement and read it under the watchful eyes of a guard."
AUTHOR: Legeza, Ireneus Laszlo.
TITLE: Tao magic : the Chinese art of the occult / Laszlo Legeza.
EDITION: 1st American ed.
IMPRINT: New York : Pantheon Books, c1975.
PHYSICAL FEATURES: 125, [3] p. : chiefly ill. ; 28 cm.
NOTES: Bibliography: p. [128].
SUBJECTS: Magic, Chinese. * Calligraphy, Chinese. * Taoism.
The rest of the books categorized under "Magic" were pretty bleak.
Here's a list of all 73 of 'em...
Author Title Date
Abraham ben Simeon, of Wor> The book of the sacred magic of Abr> 1975
Agrippa von Nettesheim, He> The philosophy of natural magic : a> 1974
Bonewits, Philip Emmons Is> Real magic : an introductory treati> 1979
Bosc, Ernest, 1837- Traite theorique et pratique du has> 1907
Briggs, Katharine Mary. Pale Hecate's team; an examination > 1962
Briggs, Katharine Mary. Pale Hecate's team; an examination > 1962
Briggs, Katharine Mary. The Witch figure; 1973
Brooks, Richard Martin, 19> The psychological and cultural base> 1974
Buck, Peter Henry, Sir, 18> Regional diversity in the elaborati> 1936
Butler, Eliza Marian, 1885> Ritual magic. 1949
Cabot, Laurie. Power of the witch / 1989
Caro Baroja, Julio. The world of the witches. 1964
Castiglioni, Arturo, 1874-> Adventures of the mind. 1946
Christopher, Milbourne. Panorama of magic. 1962
Clodd, Edward, 1840-1930. > Magic in names, and in other things> 1968
Conway, David. Ritual magic : an occult primer / 1978
Crowley, Aleister, 1875-19> The magical record of the Beast 666> 1972
Crowley, Aleister, 1875-19> Magick in theory and practice / 1976
Crowley, Aleister, 1875-19> Portable darkness : an Aleister Cro> 1989
Culianu, Ioan P. Eros and magic in the Renaissance /> 1987
D'Oberoff, Terry Witchcraft-magic / sound recording > 1969
Defoe, Daniel, 1661?-1731.> A system of magick. 1973
Drury, Nevill, 1947- Don Juan, Mescalito, and modern mag> 1978
Drury, Nevill, 1947- Don Juan, Mescalito, and modern mag> 1985
Drury, Nevill, 1947- Inner visions : explorations in mag> 1979
Drury, Nevill, 1947- The shaman and magician / 1982
Elliott, Robert C., 1914- > The power of satire: magic, ritual,> 1960
Ennemoser, Joseph, 1787-18> The history of magic. 1854
Evans, Joan, 1893- Magical jewels of the Middle Ages a> 1976
Evans-Pritchard, E. E. (Ed> Witchcraft, oracles and magic among> 1937
Farren, David. Living with magic. 1974
Farren, David. The return of magic. 1972
Fraser, Robert. The making of the Golden bough : th> 1990
Frazer, James George, Sir,> Aftermath; a supplement to The gold> 1937
Frazer, James George, Sir,> Aftermath : a supplement to The gol> 1976
Frazer, James George, Sir,> The golden bough; a study in magic > 1935
Frazer, James George, Sir,> The golden bough; a study in magic > 1956
Frazer, James George, Sir,> The golden bough : a study in magic> 1980
Frazer, James George, Sir,> The illustrated golden bough / 1978
Frazer, James George, Sir,> The new Golden bough : a new abridg> 1959
Frazer, James George, Sir,> The new Golden bough: a new abridgm> 1959
Gluckman, Max, 1911-1975, > The Allocation of responsibility. 1972
Godwin, William, 1756-1836> Lives of the necromancers. microfor> 1971
Godwin, William, 1756-1836> Lives of the necromancers: or, An a> 1834
Goodman, Frederick. Magic symbols / 1989
Holroyd, Stuart. Magic, words, and numbers / 1976
James I, King of England, > Dmonologie, 1597 1966
Malinowski, Bronislaw, 188> Argonauts of the western Pacific : > 1978
Malinowski, Bronislaw, 188> Coral gardens and their magic; a st> 1935
Mauss, Marcel, 1872-1950. > A general theory of magic; 1972
Middleton, John, 1921- Magic, witchcraft, and curing. 1967
Murray, Margaret Alice. The God of the witches / 1970
O'Keefe, Daniel Lawrence, > Stolen lightning : the social theor> 1982
Perry, William James. The origin of magic and religion, 1967
Planer, Felix E. Superstition / 1988
Redgrove, Herbert Stanley.> Bygone beliefs, being a series of e> 1969
Riley, Olive L. (Olive Las> Masks and magic. 1955
Rivers, W. H. R. (William > Medicine, magic, and religion; the > 1924
Roheim, Geza, 1891-1953. Animism, magic, and the divine king> 1972
Rony, Jerome-Antoine. A history of magic. 1962
Scot, Reginald, 1538?-1599> The discoverie of witchcraft. 1965
Scott, Gini Graham. The magicians : a study of the use > 1983
Shah, Idries, 1924- Oriental magic; 1968
Solomon, King of Israel. The Key of Solomon the King / 1989
Tavenner, Eugene, 1878- Studies in magic from Latin literat> 1966
Valiente, Doreen. Natural magic / 1975
Vaughan, Thomas, 1622-1666> The works of Thomas Vaughan, mystic> 1968
Vetter, George B. Magic and religion: their psycholog> 1959
Waite, Arthur Edward, 1857> The book of ceremonial magic includ> 1987
Webster, Hutton, 1875-1955> Magic: a sociological study. 1973
Weyer, Johann, 1515-1588. > Histoires, disputes et discours des> 1885
Wilson, Bryan R. Magic and the millennium; a sociolo> 1973
Wilson, Bryan R. Magic and the millennium; a sociolo> 1973
Like I said, pretty bleak...
Msg #1718 Dated 1:48:53 05-04-91 1677 <--> 1721
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: THE MAGIC! LUNCHEON
I NEED HELP FROM L.A. MEMBERS - We have a MAGIC! star - RANDY LUND -
author of MAGIC2DB - arriving in L.A. for the FIRST TIME. Please add
some suggestions on where we should take him besides the La Brea Tar
Pits and the Rodia Towers in Watts.
Randy -
It is gonna be GREAT to have you joining us! I can give you a couple
of choices for where to stay for the two nights. 1) You are welcome to
come up to our place and stay in our motorhome (sorry, Tabby's got dibs
on the guest suite) - it is not too neat, but it is right here and
free. 2) You might consider the "Magic Hotel" practically under the
Castle! (At the foot of the hill) - $45 for a single per night. A lot
of magi performing at the Castle seem to stay at the Hotel, but,
otherwise I know little about it. Right in the heart of Hollywood, the
neighborhood is, er, "unusual." (Contrast: I'm 20 minutes away and
they raise horses on the lots surrounding the Arleta post-office).
The big "crunch" you are gonna face is arriving late on Thurs. night.
Will try to determine what sorts of transportation are available,
perhaps to take you direct to the Castle (coat and tie required for
evening, casual for Friday lunch) since it is very likely Tabman, I and
others will be there until it closes. Your other "crunch" is gonna be
getting out on an 8:20 a.m. flight on Saturday since we will all
probably howl Friday night. Hope you got a lot of stamina!
I know it is VERY TOUGH, but is there any chance you can get in earlier
on Thursday and leave later on Saturday?
Msg #1719 Dated 1:59:08 05-04-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: ROM-ANY
Just installed a new ROM in one of the MAGIC! modems. There should be
no discernable effect. But over the next few days, if anyone does
notice anything better or worse in communications quality or speed, I'd
appreciate a message about it. If you do leave a message, please let
me know if the message is being left during the session you are
commenting on, or on another call. Thanks.
Msg #1721 Dated 4:36:59 05-04-91 1718 <--> 1736
From: RANDY LUND
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: THE MAGIC! LUNCHEON
Thanks for the offer of the trailer, I'll take you up on it. Country
and horses sound much better than an "unusual" neighborhood. I can't
make it earlier flights leave either first thing in the morning or 5:20
for LA (that's the flight that gets in at 9:30) and I have meetings at
work that I must be at on thurs. Kalamazoo is a great place to live
but it has three drawbacks. 1 - you can't get there from here, all
airline service is via somewhere else so you always have connections
and this free ticket limits me to North West. 2 - the seafood is
horrible and 3 - my conservative dutch friends. Anyway getting in
earlier will be tough, but I will rent a car so ground transport is no
problem. I could leave later, as late as 12:20 but that flight gets in
after 11 where the 8:20 gets me home in time for supper so I guess I'll
have use my stamina and sleep on the plane. I do that all the time
when I go to Europe, it seems that we are out every night till 1-2 am
and at it the next morning. I think I can change these later if I
want.
.
See you soon, Randy
Msg #1724 Dated 7:25:29 05-04-91 1674 <--> 1738
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
WOW! I DO have a collectors item!
Msg #1726 Dated 8:07:29 05-04-91 1700 <--> 1739
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: RENUMBERING
Glad you didn't say MICHELIN...
Msg #1727 Dated 8:10:19 05-04-91 1716 <--> 1740
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MENTALISM
Did you type that just for me?
Msg #1728 Dated 8:11:11 05-04-91 1705 <--> 1729
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: GENII
Why don't you talk Tony Georgio INTO going to Joe Stevens and doing a
video of his stuff... HONEST... His three card monte act is priceless
and should be recorded for posterity. Tell him I said that. If you
see him.
Msg #1729 Dated 8:12:16 05-04-91 1715 <--> 1743
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: GENII
No question.... Georgio really knows his stuff and his shows were
outstanding. I forgive him... tell if you see... you rememeber the
scuffle he and I had at the Castle many moons ago?
Msg #1734 Dated 9:21:20 05-04-91 -> 1753
From: MICHAEL AMMAR
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: SURVEY
I'll be happy to load the survey into a side file, or whatever. As I
mentioned, it is pretty involved. My real interest would be in making
certain I am asking the right questions in the right way, because I
really don't want to do this twice.
It shouldn't be too long before I can do this - maybe in the next
couple of days. But right now, I don't know how to load files in. I
just type things in, real time.
One of the really great things I read here was the Tommy Wonder
piece on the Zombie. =a Inspirational! I immediately sat down and
wrote a 2 page reply, but only to myself, as I don't know how to load
it in!
The same thing happened when I read Pete Biro's write up of Judd
Cole's egg bag routine! Very interesting, naturally drawing out
comment, but basically, just to myself!
Msg #1735 Dated 9:26:37 05-04-91
From: MICHAEL AMMAR
To: ALL
Re: JOE PORPER
I've been trying to get hold of Joe for several months, but no one
seems to know how to contact him! I've asked several L.A. friends, as
well as the Castle, but no luck.
Then I was given the obvious idea - which I was going to think of
eventually, someday, maybe - whAich was, ask the guys on MAGIC!.
So, if anyone can give me his #, either publicly or privately, I'd
like to get Joe a large sum of money! Any help?
Msg #1736 Dated 10:19:20 05-04-91 1721 <--> 1754
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: THE MAGIC! LUNCHEON
Sounds good! My concern was that you will miss some of the Thursday
night show. But will plan a route to get you to the Castle from the
airport by the most direct route. Will see if we can arrange a Highway
Patrol escort (right now you don't want an L.A.P.D. one). OR, better
yet, you could rent a helicopter and have it land right on a certain
statue at the Castle. Will try to put some details together.
Msg #1737 Dated 10:22:40 05-04-91 -> 1745
From: DAVID WILLIAMSON
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FFFF
Tabby,
Good to meet you too. I didn't mention how much trouble you can
Msg #1738 Dated 10:25:54 05-04-91 1724 <--> 1819
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
Yep! Someday, when we are all famous. Hand signed, even.
Msg #1739 Dated 10:27:19 05-04-91 1726 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RENUMBERING
Yeah, I figured you'd like the plug. Besides, "M" doesn't have a
blimp, do they?
Msg #1740 Dated 10:28:01 05-04-91 1727 <--> 1749
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MENTALISM
Actually, I figured it might be of interest to folks in the San
Fernando Valley. And I hoped it would generate some discussion on that
idea that was once kicking around here of making sure that school
libraries had some real magic books. Obviously, CSUN doesn't.
Msg #1742 Dated 11:29:38 05-04-91 1713 <--> 1878
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Take a break, T A!
I wasn't CRITICIZING Vito Lupo...
...I was a making an observation of the things that probably threw him
off in his opening segment. I think the lesson is obvious...
Msg #1743 Dated 11:38:29 05-04-91 1728 <--> 1744
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: GENII
Pete...you should know...NOBODY talks Tony Georgio into ANYTHING!
I will pass on your message and suggest that he consider recording his
stuff, though...I see him pretty often and I agree wholeheartedly!
Msg #1744 Dated 11:43:20 05-04-91 1715 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: GENII
You should tell him that, T A! I agree...is magical, dramatic and
comedic senses are all very finely tuned.
Msg #1745 Dated 12:51:59 05-04-91 1737 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID WILLIAMSON (X)
Re: FFFF
Great,
You're still at it. Sending me an incomplete message just
to torture me. Diabolical. I can't wait to catch up with Bone
Pony next week in LA and try it on Scotty (lead singer). I'm
working on a handling with me having an empty and putting a half
in the top bottle. They're examining it while their beer runs all
over the bar. Maybe the Williamson way is better cuz you were
long gone before we got the full effect. Maybe with the top
bottle empty it will break and besides beer there will be glass,
etc. Killer.
Msg #1748 Dated 15:57:50 05-04-91 1709 <-
From: EVAN KATZ
To: JOHN JOLLY (X)
Re: BICYCLES
Lemme get this straight. NO ZIP TAPE = good deck. This means the
cellophane wrapper is still present, just without a helpful tape to pen
it?
Msg #1749 Dated 16:00:42 05-04-91 1716 <--> 1752
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MENTALISM
What, no Walter Gibson books?!
Msg #1752 Dated 16:30:51 05-04-91 1749 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: MENTALISM
Nope! Not even one small Phil Goldstein book.
Msg #1753 Dated 16:31:13 05-04-91 1734 <-
From: RANDY LUND
To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X)
Re: SURVEY
I don't know how to upload messages to this section. Uploading files,
ASCII for your survey I imagine is real easy in the files secton
especially if your commumications program allows for XMODEM protocol
file transfers. David Litchman can probably help you with uploading
prewritten files to this section.
Randy
Msg #1754 Dated 16:33:54 05-04-91 1736 <-
From: RANDY LUND
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: THE MAGIC! LUNCHEON
OK, Look forward to hearing from you.
Msg #1755 Dated 20:25:57 05-04-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: ?
A coupla things maybe ya'll can help me with.
Msg #1756 Dated 20:26:15 05-04-91 -> 1769
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: ??
First I'm looking for a source for HUSTON'S YUKON GOLD
playing cards. Somebody at FFFF told me they were Canadian, but
I don't know. I just like the backs and would like to pick up a
dozen decks.
Msg #1757 Dated 20:26:42 05-04-91 -> 1759
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: ???
Second, I'm interested in finding a dollar coin sized OKITO
BOX and BOSTON box in brass. Has anyone ever seen such a
contrivance? I have never seen (or heard of) this sized box,
though it would surprise me if one had never been made. I guess I
could have one (or more) made up by the machinist down the road
as he's made me a coupla simple things lately. Any info from the
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD would be appreciated.
Msg #1758 Dated 20:27:12 05-04-91 -> 1820
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: PS
Am most looking forward to my trip west May 14-19 and to the
MAGIC! get together at lunchtime in Hollywood. I guess I haven't
been as vocal lately, but with so many new voices contributing so
much these past months since The Desert Seminar I have been
following the threads and enjoying the 24 Hour a Day Magic
Convention like so many of us do by reading and enjoying, getting
inspiration and information.
I understand many of you are reading "real time" and would
like information on how to use the system more effectively. I've
got a coupla things I've written up and will mail you if you send
me a stamped envelope in care of MAGIC!'s mailing address. You
may end up confused more than ever, but maybe not. Send me your
fax number here online and I'll fax if you want.
Also, if I can't find a source for the dollar sized Okito
boxes and have some made up would anybody else want one. No rush
as I'm up to my elbows right now and they might be expensive. If
I actually have to do it will probably have Okito box, Boston
box, and solid box made up.
Some dealer will start on them tomorrow to beat me to it, so
I might as well wait for them to come out. If Johnson Products
has one in their line, that's exactly what I'm looking for. Seems
like I saw one once that held four coins, but I'd like to go for
six. The lids have to be the hardest part to mill, but again I
don't really know. Any machinists online?
See you on top of the mountain.
sg #1761 Dated 21:21:00 05-04-91
From: STEVE BRYANT
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FFFF
Tabby --
Loved your FFFF reviews. Wish I could have been there,
especially at your side soaking up the card technique.
Your mention of URBAN COWBOY prompted me to watch it
again. You and Travolta were great, but those little
tank tops of Debra Winger made the movie. And she
looked so young!
Msg #1762 Dated 21:21:52 05-04-91 -> 1777
From: STEVE BRYANT
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: IBM
Bill --
Thanks for your lengthy and well-considered reply. I
think, after all this discussion, that we have always
been quite close in our thinking, and that our
differences are only reflections of our experiences --
with mine being quite limited re fraternal groups. I
AM a member of the Magic Castle, and I found it amusing
that the Castle membership was recently criticized here
for the same sort of things I have accused "other"
groups of. All best wishes.
-- Steve
Msg #1763 Dated 21:22:49 05-04-91 -> 1778
From: STEVE BRYANT
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SKATES
Pete --
Speaking of roller skating, have you tried roller
blades? I did so recently, while my daughter was
purchasing a pair. BEWARE: They have no toe stops.
If you try to stop in the normal manner, you roll right
over onto your face. Good thing the salesman made me
wear wrist guards, or I wouldn't be doing any card
tricks for a long time. Otherwise -- great fun.
Msg #1764 Dated 21:23:32 05-04-91 -> 1766
From: STEVE BRYANT
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: CASSADEGA
David --
I think my Cassadaga piece is at the office. I'll
upload it next week. Feel free to digitize the figures
I sent you. I'll send the photos, but they are
probably too small to digitize. I had enlarged the
xeroxes.
Msg #1765 Dated 21:24:15 05-04-91 -> 1770
From: STEVE BRYANT
To: ALL
Re: GENII
I seldom buy video tapes. I love to watch them, and
think Joe Stevens' are the best on the market, but they
are just too expensive for me, especially relative to
the price of books. BUT . . . get Tony Giorgio to do
one, and include his 3 card monte, and I will buy it.
It is definitely the best I've ever seen.
Msg #1766 Dated 23:07:02 05-04-91 1764 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STEVE BRYANT (X)
Re: CASSADEGA
Will look forward to the Cassadaga piece. Actually, I've found that
small photos digitize better than large ones! I think it has something
to do with my running the scanner at too many dots per inch.
Msg #1769 Dated 0:19:52 05-05-91 1756 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ??
I just picked up a Canadian deck of TEXAN "Palmetto Back"
cards...great! I'll keep a lookout for the Yukon Gold...don't recall
having seen them, though.
Msg #1770 Dated 0:23:40 05-05-91 1765 <--> 1779
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: STEVE BRYANT (X)
Re: GENII
I'm sure Tony will be pleased to hear the very mention of the thought
of his doing a tape has brought such positive response!
Msg #1772 Dated 1:03:11 05-05-91 -> 1773
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
Hey, folks! I've stayed up all night waiting for the "Day of Magic"
reports - where are they?
Msg #1773 Dated 1:26:31 05-05-91 1772 <--> 1796
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
Partial info -- Johnny Ace Palmer gave an excellent two-part lecture.
the first part consisted of his act, then much discussion therein,
and questions and answers. The second part concentrated on making
points with specific effect not in the act, Palmer's thoughts on
misdirection, structure...
John Kennedy's lecture was supposed to take place in time period "3"
(there were four lecture time slots), but he got caught in traffic or
something, and was late. They decided to move him into period 4, and
as there was no other lecture I wanted to see at that time, and period
4 was two hours away, I left, a mite disgusted.
But Johnny Ace Palmer was great! Someone asked if ever intended on
making major changes to his (award-winning) act. Basically, he said
no!
Msg #1774 Dated 1:53:58 05-05-91 1692 <--> 1782
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
I found it! Ultimate card secrets under Vernon's Variant.
Twisting the Aces baffled me too the first time. Saw it done by Looy
Simonoff. He added a humorous angle in the beginning in a way only he
could do. Saw Geno Munari do "Variant" for a table at a party and
baffled everyone (entertained may explain it better). BTW. how did you
like Chelman's Gypsy Curse? If I remember he uses Elmsley and Jordan
counts in that one.
Msg #1775 Dated 2:03:42 05-05-91 1699 <--> 1840
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: MAGIC! SPECIAL
Let me be one of the first to accept your offer! I'v always enloyed
Ammar ever since watching him at a CES convention in Vegas.
Check to follow.
Msg #1777 Dated 7:37:57 05-05-91 1762 <--> 1898
From: PETE BIRO
To: STEVE BRYANT (X)
Re: IBM
That doesn't mean you can participate in their events. You just need
your own close-knit group of friends, you don't have to agree with
everything, politically, but where else do you get to see such a
diversified group of performers?
Msg #1778 Dated 7:39:19 05-05-91 1763 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: STEVE BRYANT (X)
Re: SKATES
No, roller blades do not look like they are more than a toy. I roller
skated 6 nights a week, 8 hours every Saturday for years and years...
then one day I decided to learn to Ice Skate (My dad was a pro on both,
in show business). I spent over $100 (this was in the 50s!!!!) for
lessons and COULD NOT SKATE ON THE NARROW ICE SKATES.... had to do with
my ankle's inability to keep straight. I also cannot operate ski's due
to a muscle stiffness situation. So one's legs/ankles/muscles etc. have
to be flexible (mine are not) and have certain strength characteristics
as well to use various devices.
The Blade (roller) concept "looks fashionable" but you can't do much
with them.
My dad, in the 1920s worked out a pair of "ICE SKATES" that had tiny
rollers in the blades and he skated on a steel floor with them. He and
Harley Davidson (yep, motorcycle man) were going to go into business
and my dad decided not too. So he blew that one!!!!!
Msg #1779 Dated 7:44:14 05-05-91 1765 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: STEVE BRYANT (X)
Re: GENII
Hope we can get Georgio on tape, by ANYBODY!
Msg #1782 Dated 7:51:02 05-05-91 1774 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: ELSMSLEY COUNT
Chelman's stuff is great. I have the original Elmsley Four Card trick
somewhere. If I get time will look it up. I have been working on the
Gypsy Curse, trying all the different routines. So far like the Dingle
handling (except for the first count) I think the original Hamman Count
fits better, in that you can do it without screwing up 100-percent of
the time. The video of Fred Kaps' version still has me fooled and I
cannot figure it out. Altho one reason is he does not use the same set
of cards, so I don't know where the what cards are....
Msg #1785 Dated 10:59:19 05-05-91 -> 1787
From: BRUCE SANDERCOCK
To: TABBY CRAB
Re: PS
Would like to take you up on your offer on method for
"real time". Even though I'm fairly close to Sysop number
my first phone bill was over the top! My fax number is
714-871-1209. Looking forward to seeing you at the luncheon.
Msg #1786 Dated 11:44:22 05-05-91 -> 1790
From: HOWARD SCHWARZMAN
To: ALL
Re: FUN
Perhaps some one might be interested in the following
which appeared in the Baltimore Sunday Sun May 5th.
Msg #1787 Dated 11:59:21 05-05-91 1785 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BRUCE SANDERCOCK (X)
Re: PS
Fax away. Don't let Hotel De Carlo throw you as I live in a fantasy
world.
Msg #1789 Dated 12:52:17 05-05-91 -> 1795
From: BRUCE SANDERCOCK
To: TABBY CRAB
Re: SPEED
The speed of your response on "SPEED" was overwhelming! Hotel
DeCarlo sounds ver exotic.......do you do a check on the window
when paying your bill?
y
Re your method......I utilize Microsoft"Works"
communications, and have been able to down-load files, even
in the zipped format. No success however in using the RC;*
command. Tried opening the Receive File command on "Works",
then enetering the RC;*, but nothing happens. In the meantime
have spent the last half hour trying to record an automatic
sign on and all I've succeeded in doing was to foul up my
automatic dial in program. Oh well, new to the BB and new to
computors. Will pick your brain on the 17th!
Msg #1790 Dated 13:18:19 05-05-91 1786 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: HOWARD SCHWARZMAN (X)
Re: FUN
Howie -
We got the part that said you were going to entr the article, but we
didn't get the article itself. I suspect that you had a blank line in
the text. A really blank like will throw the system off - remember how
you use two presses of the enter key to end a message? Well, a blank
line is the equivalent. To make it work, you have to employ a bit of
electronic black art and put something on the "blank" line - can be a
couple of spaces if your wordprocessor will let you. Otherwise, a
period or other small mark will hold the "blank" line.
Msg #1791 Dated 13:18:54 05-05-91
From: DENNIS PIERCE
To: ALL
Re: DENVER
I will be visiting Denver for a conference over the 4th of July
week and would like any info on shops or local ring activities in the
area. Any help? Thanks Dante for the info I'll be in touch via mail.
Msg #1795 Dated 14:55:14 05-05-91 1789 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BRUCE SANDERCOCK (X)
Re: SPEED
Check yo fax for reply. The RC;* must be entered at the MAGIC! command
line = Function : Hang in. It'll come
easy soon.
Msg #1796 Dated 16:40:43 05-05-91 1772 <--> 1800
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
I saw Johnny Ace Palmer also, parts one and two. Although he said he
was new to lecturing it was very well thought out, very enjoyable and
very informative. My wife attended the Jeff Hobson lecture which was
all about working comedy clubs. She said that was very good also as he
had a lot of hard won information to give us. While I was in Johnny
Ace's part two lecture the wife attended Billy McCombs which may or may
not have been good as she fell asleep! From what I understand, he did
some card tricks and silk tricks and explained their workings.
As you have heard, John Kennedy did not make it in time to lecture in
either the third or the last slot. He was present afterwards selling
his lecture notes. Both my wife and I attended Mitch Williams lecture
which was a bit abstract. Talking about magic as an art form and being
creative. Hints on developing a character and points to remember when
putting a show together. I liked it but noticed several people nodding
off. Lastly my wife attended Tony Clark's lecture on Dove magic which
she said he was very knowledgable about and explained the work involved
with doves. Care and feeding and treatment etc. as well as how to use
them in the show. I attended Joycee Becks lecture which was originally
supposed to have covered some card manipulations but it ended up being
more of a lecture from a positive thinkers book. about a third of the
audience walked out and many people including myself only stayed out of
respect for Joycee as she was doing her best as a last minute inclusion
as a lecturer.
Jeff Hobson did a wonderful job MCeeing the big show after the
lectures. It seemed most of the performers had gremlins creeping into
their show making things go wrong. Hobson was about to perform the
card in mouth routine and realized when he took the deck out of it's
case it was a Brainwave deck! He borrowed one from the audience who
apparently didn't realize they were going to be spat all over the stage
and one of them being folded and soaked with saliva!
Loren Michaels did a nice job with his act but it seemed like he had to
"ask" for the applause a bit too much. I don't have time on line to
review all of the shows as I'm sure you're familiar with all of them
but judging by the amount of applause the audience gave they were very
pleased with most of the performances. The closing act, Russel Lewis,
I don't know about. Many people made the same observation. He seemed
to be a rich person who wants to be a magician. He has hired fine
dancers, choreographers, directors, bought expensive effects, but he
just doesn't look like he belongs out there. There were many technical
difficulties between sets making the audience wait for several minutes
in the dark. I felt badly for them but even worse for the folks who
paid $16 to see the show. If he wants to be suave, he needs to lose
some weight and do a lot more work on his act. We finally got to eat
after 8:30 and mingle with some of the performers and lecturers.
Overall I had a good day and would look forward to another one.
Msg #1800 Dated 19:19:38 05-05-91 1796 <--> 1803
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
Nice to read what appears to be A
TELL IT LIKE IT IS REPORT. THAT IS WHAT WE MUST DO ONLINE. Hey, save
money, write offline and upload the messages. Easy to do.
Msg #1803 Dated 20:29:33 05-05-91 1796 <--> 1810
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
Thanks for the Day of Magic report. Appreciate the info and the time
it took to compose it. Maybe I'll get to next year's.
Msg #1805 Dated 21:01:46 05-05-91 1520 <--> 1808
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAC ADVICE
That's the perfect thing about April. It begins with shouts of "April
Fools", then we pay our taxes, and end with "May Day!". I just
mentioned it (May Day) for fun. Of course, now it's Cinco de Mayo. If
May Day belongs to "the other side", then Cinco de Mayo must belong to
our underside. I, for one, didn't dance the May pole. Bummer!
Msg #1807 Dated 21:10:55 05-05-91 -> 1849
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: GENII SUBSCRIPTION
Dante, I'm getting nervous! Haven't seen hide nor hare (Magician
humor!) of either the May or April issues. May I assume the
subscription order got there? I'm probably just whining nervously, but
most of the guys I know who subscribe to Genii get their issues around
this time. By the way, the magazine has improved so much since you took
over! Good going. I was glad to see the old "standard cover" go. (No
offense to the cover's artist). Keep up the good work!
Msg #1808 Dated 21:15:07 05-05-91 1805 <--> 1919
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: MAC ADVICE
Personally, I think Cinco de Mayo needs a better name - at least in
English. Sounds too much like either Cinco de Titanic or Pass de Mayo.
Msg #1809 Dated 21:18:06 05-05-91
From: JOHN JOLLY
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: BICYCLES
Evan, you got it, pal. If 'ya gotta' fight your way into the deck,
it'll be worth the wait!
I dunno' could Midwest City, Oklahoma be the poker test market of
the..........nah!
jj
.............................!poof!
Msg #1810 Dated 22:58:19 05-05-91 1796 <--> 1811
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
As I wasn't able to attend the "Day of Magic," it was certainly nice
reading your "BBS-Verite" report! Thanks, Stan.
Msg #1811 Dated 22:56:12 05-05-91 1803 <--> 1813
From: JERRY BURTON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
The guys at ring 21 are to be congratulated on putting on
such an event. It was well done. Unfortunately they had
4 lecture sessions with 12 lecturers, so you had to make
some tough choices.
.
I had seen Johnnie Ace's lecture twice before, so I chose
to go see Hobsen and Billy McComb in the morning and
Mitch Williams and Joycee Beck in the afternoon.
.
Hobsen just cracks me up, he is arguably one of the
funniest guys around. He gave a lot of good info on
working comedy clubs, (which is a venue not many
of us in the room would fit into), but I
thoroughly enjoyed it.
.
Billy's lecture was put together from little bits
of business he has acquired over his career, I picked-up
several bits that are going to be useful. I'll put
together a write-up on a deck set-up that he called
rounds, sharps, & flats. It's not a complete routine,
but more of a set-up that you could use to devlop
a trick. I will probably incorporate his intro to
the sucker egg trick (if anyone out there does this
particuliar effect I'll give you a write-up on it.)
.
Mitch's lecture was very thought provoking. It was
oriented more to stage performance, but could be
adapted to stand-up. His discussion on the development
of a 'personna' hit a chord with me.
.
I was hoping to go to John Kennedy's lecture, but he
didn't show up. I had seen Vito's lecture at the castle
so I sat in on the Joycee Beck lecture. It sounded
like she had pulled all the 'one-liners' from every
motivational lecture ever printed. I must admit that
I,m one of the ones that ducked out the back door.
.
The dealers room was packed most of the time, with
about nine tables full of all sorts of goodies. As
usual I bought more stuff than I had planned to.
.
I was amazed at the quality of the evening show.
Since, I'm a Hobsen fan he got me started right
away. Loren Michaels did his stage act, which
includes fire eating. Hobsen came back with his
own version which is very funny. Yours-Mime-and-
Ours with what I think was a talking Mime's
version of a card trick - it was different to
say the least - something P & T would do.
.
The Malloy's - her ballon to bowling ball is quite
good.
.
Mitch William's with a top-notch manipulation act
(after having seen his lecture it was interesting
to watch his steals, related to his theory of
'Balanced Movements'), if I hadn't just come from
an hour of seeing him do & explain them they would
have been imperceptable.
.
Billy McComb did his classic half-and-half silk
routine, which is always a joy to watch and listen
to. His timing is suberb.
.
Franz Harary used the entire stage to do a rope trick
that he had done at the castle in the parlour. It uses
2 scantily clad assistants for mis-direction and
rope winding - it is too small for the large stage
and too large for the parlour - sometimes Franz
doesn't choose his material to fit the space he works.
.
I agree with Stan that this guy Russel Lewis must be
rich. A David Copperfield he ain't. Pretty good dancers
though.
.
Finally, they put on a big buffet with a monster sandwich
and salads etc. All this for $ 45 - what a deal !!
.
Burton the Bizarre.
.
PS- Its Sunday night and the TV is going on in the
background, and Sunday Night Comics has The Amazing
Jonathan on. He did the goriest bill-in-lemon routine
I've ever seen. Hobsen had mentioned that Jonathan
was into blood and guts, but I had no idea how far
he had taken it. I thought it was disgusting but
the comedy club audience loved it.
Msg #1813 Dated 23:41:36 05-05-91 1811 <--> 1821
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
Thank you for your report, Jerry. It really adds dimension to the "Day
of Magic." And yes, the Ring 21 folks are very much to be
congratulated for mounting such a massive activity.
As to comedy clubs, I think that most here are aquainted with my point
of view. Simply put: they aren't funny.
Msg #1817 Dated 10:07:18 05-06-91
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: ALL
Re: DAY-OF-MAGIC REVIEW
SUBJECT: "DAY-OF-MAGIC" Through the eyes of MURF
.
Well it's two days after the "DAY-OF-MAGIC" and all I have to
say is three things, GREAT, FANTASTIC, and OUTSTANDING!!!!! If you
didn't attend you missed a great opportunity to learn from some of
the true Masters of Magic.
The "DAY-OF-MAGIC" was on Saturday on the beautiful campus of
UCLA in Los Angeles. There were four sets of lecture sessions and
each lecture session had three choices from which you could choose
from depending on your particular style of magic.
Being a Close-up Magician myself I attended the Johnny "Ace"
Palmer lecture "EXPRESSIONS OF A WORLD CHAMPION MAGICIAN"; Part I
and Part II, the Mitch Williams lecture "MAGIC AS AN ART FORM", and
the Joycee Beck lecture "DISCUSSIONS FROM THE DUCHESS".
In Johnny "Ace" Palmer's lecture, in Part I, Johnny began by
performing his show, which many of you may have seen in the close-up
room at the Magic Castle. Then, after a brief intermission, he went
into the first portion of his lecture, "DEVELOPING AN AWARD WINNING
ACT". In this first part of the lecture Johnny shared his thoughts
on developing an award winning act and how he went about winning the
IBM "Gold Cups", the SAM "Gold Medal Award of Honor", and then going
on to FISM and winning the "GRAND PRIX" to become a "WORLD CHAMPION
MAGICIAN".
Part II of Johnny's lecture consisted of the remainder of his
lecture, "PRINCIPLES & CONCEPTS and ORIGINAL & FAVORITE EFFECTS",
followed by a brief question and answer session.
At this time we had about and hour and a half for lunch during
which time the Dealer's room was open. Dealer's present included,
Magic Palace, Brad Burt's Magic Shop, Bill Pearce, John Pooley,
Axtell Products, John Kennedy, Rabbit Magic, Loren Michaels, Larry
Chaffers, Tony Clark, and Joyce Basch.
The third lecture that I went to was the Mitch Williams lecture
"MAGIC AS AN ART FORM". Mitch lectured on approaching magic as an
art form. Topics included: THE CHARACTER AS THE FOUNDATION,
NATURALNESS THROUGH RELAXATION & MOTIVATION, and FOCUS &
MISDIRECTION including practical applications. Mitch started his
lecture by asking for a show of hands on how many magicians in the
room thought Magic was an art form, from which about three quarters
of the room raised there hands. Mitch then asked by a show of hands
how many magicians in the room considered themselves artists, to
which only a couple of people raised their hands. Interesting
HUH?!?!?!?!?!?
The final lecture that I attended was the Joycee Beck lecture
"DISCUSSIONS FROM THE DUCHESS". Joycee discussed building a winning
image and improving your performance by learning how to project
credibility and authority; to perform with impact confidence and
proficiency. Other topics Joycee covered included personal hygiene,
clothing, and positive thinking.
"THE-DAY-OF-MAGIC" was followed then by "THE-NIGHT-OF-MAGIC".
The evening magic show was hosted by Jeff Hobson and was very well
put together and a good time was had by all.
As I sit here reading this, I CAN'T WAIT UNTIL NEXT YEAR!!!!
There were a few other members of MAGIC! present and hopefully
they can report on some of the other lectures that I didn't see.
Darrell "MURF"
Msg #1818 Dated 10:20:08 05-06-91 -> 1845
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: OKITO ET AL
When Gunther Nash made his first list up of stuff he was
selling (he bought out The Kramien Show about 10 years ago) I
spotted a promo photo of Okito complete with his (Okito) official
seal. Two were listed but one was gone when I called but I got
it. That was well over a month ago and the photo complete in old
frame came in today.
I haven't started looking in my books yet, but it is a
photo, not only of Okito in business suit, but of nine other men
standing around him at a large round table covered by a white
table cloth.
So far, I've identified Jack Gwynne, Walter B. Gibson,
Bert Allerton for sure. I can partially read some of the name
tags with my magnfier and have tentively identified Jean Hugard -
did he smoke a cigar?
The S.A.M. logo is on the badges. There is another Walter
besides Gibson and a gentleman with no name tag resembles Harlan
Tarbell. This looks like a photo that probably made the rounds
and perhaps ended up in a book someplace so I'll be on the
lookout. Two others I have seen photos of and will trace though
one guy looks like Stewart James now but this was at least 40
years ago.
Gunther has promised to join us here online after this
next tour is over. I'll remind him. He's got another list coming
out later this year. There are still a number of books he'll be
sending after he gets off the road as well.
sg #1819 Dated 10:22:54 05-06-91 1674 <--> 1831
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
Stan has two buttons and he forgot to wear either one to the
"DAY-OF-MAGIC"!!!!!
Msg #1820 Dated 10:33:50 05-06-91 1758 <--> 1830
From: MARVIN STERN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PS
Yes, please fax dthe info on reel time. My fax # is (213)466-7049.
I have a souvenir of Hollywood for you. As you are a movie star, and
my business is professional mot pic eq., I have a slate/clapboard lapel
pin. Cute pin, and if you don't like it, you can always give it to one
of your kids or whoever. Or is it whomever?
Also have a magic souvenir pin, but you'll have to wait till Fri lunch
to find about it. I know, you can hardly wait.
Thanks in advance, for sending the information.
Msg #1821 Dated 10:41:47 05-06-91 1772 <-
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
I just uploaded one David!!
Msg #1823 Dated 10:51:10 05-06-91
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: SESSIONS IBM
David - hope I can remember your message on the IBM MAGIC! sessions
- I did a dumb thing and copied my last capture of messages onto
the previous capture and therefore wiped out my record of your
messages, biros and others to me....tried briefly at lunch to
recapture the message buffer but RC;* seems to only allow dumping
everything the FIRST time you call...guess I need to know how to
reset my message pointers or something! Anyhow...when you pack
MAGIC!-23, I should be able to see what I lost!
First of all, the cork/chalk boards are probably standard hotel
type boards on wheels...I would say that any poster should be a
standard size type (whats a standard size poster???) We have never
imposed a limit on the size of stuff going onto the board!
I will be happy to have the flyer done on this end if we can
prevail on the biroone to lay it out and put the file up on the
board so I can print it out on a lazer here and then get it
reproduced. I can handle anything in WP5.1. If we can't find
anything else...I will pack up my AT and either the EGA or VGA
monitor and 2400 baud modem and truck the lot to Baltimore as I
understand fully the problems of your transporting stuff via air.
too bad we can't use either the IBM's NEC prospeed 386 portable or
my Compaq laptop but neither would handle the digital card.
Yes...I have typed the two sessions into the schedule with rooms,
etc. As soon as I get a chance I will reload the revised lecture
which also includes a chance in when Carney lectures. Did I cover
all the questions???
Msg #1827 Dated 10:54:19 05-06-91 -> 1836
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ILL OF YOU JUST IN CASE Y
Tabbo the Great!
I managed to get over about 2 p.m. and catch the last half of
Doc's lecture and also see him do the bill in lemon on stage
(unfortunately done with a hot dog bun since no lemon was available
at the moment). The Doctor is a great credit to the world of magic!!
Msg #1830 Dated 12:11:37 05-06-91 1758 <--> 1835
From: MARVIN STERN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PS
Received fax. Thanks.
Msg #1831 Dated 12:58:32 05-06-91 1819 <--> 1843
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
Probably didn't want to risk wearing something that valuable in the
midst of a crowd of magi. Still think everyone should have written
MAGIC! on a 3x5 file card and worn that. Watched a tourbus full of
people arrive at the Castle last Friday - each had a little "key tag"
with their name on it tied to them - sorta looked like an animated
version of the luggage check room at Paddington Station.
Msg #1833 Dated 13:38:31 05-06-91 -> 1862
From: ANDREW T OAKDEN
To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X)
Re: WELCOME
HOW'S IT GOING? I WOULD JUST LIKE TO WELCOME YOU PERSONALLY AND HOPE
TO TALK TO YOU AGAIN. I AM 15 YEARS OLD AND HAVE BEEN IN MAGIC FOR 3
YEARS NOW. MY PARENTS BOUGHT ME YOUR "LIVE AT MAGIC CASTLE" VIDEO
. I REALLY LOVE THE ELASTIC THREAD, I WANT OUT AND BOUGHT SOME. IS
THERE ANY MORE SUGGESTIONS THAT YOU HAVE ABOUT THE LIGHTING CONDITIONS.
WELL HOPE TO TALK TO YOU AGAIN SOON.
Msg #1835 Dated 15:10:07 05-06-91 1820 <--> 1916
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MARVIN STERN (X)
Re: PS
Yes, definately looking forward to the luncheon and will be
looking forward to the clapper pin too. I've got a full sized one
which somehow ended up in my stuff out in the studio. Hope Fax
enlightens you some. Have another one which I'll send over when I
find.
Msg #1836 Dated 15:10:38 05-06-91 1827 <--> 1894
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: ILL OF YOU JUST IN CASE Y
Glad you got to see part of Doc. You've seen something I haven't
which is the bill in the bun trick. No lemons in Arlington? I
agree that Doc is good for Magic as a whole. I talked to him the
day before he flew over and let him know I'd not be in
attendance, but wish I could of seen him again. His presentation
is the result of much, much thoughtful practice.
Msg #1839 Dated 15:20:31 05-06-91
From: MARVIN STERN
To: ROBERT BENNETT
Re: 1ST TIME
Come-on. The first time can be exciting, if it works.
Msg #1840 Dated 15:21:57 05-06-91 1775 <--> 1844
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: MAGIC! SPECIAL
Thanks for the order, I hope many more will follow this is really a
once in a lifetime opportunity.
Msg #1843 Dated 16:33:42 05-06-91 1831 <--> 1857
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
I have to admit I was a bit ashamed to have forgotten my Magic!
buttons. I was at the Castle the night before which only gave me a bit
under five hours sleep. I don't have the stamina I used to- I wasn't
awake until Johnny Ace Palmer showed up for the first lecture!
Msg #1844 Dated 16:39:58 05-06-91 1699 <--> 1873
From: STAN LAKE
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: MAGIC! SPECIAL
Sounds great Burt. I'll be sending you a check for one tomorrow.
Msg #1845 Dated 17:05:19 05-06-91 1818 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: OKITO ET AL
Hope you let me look at it when i hit town.
Msg #1849 Dated 19:28:52 05-06-91 1807 <--> 1920
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: SCOTT CRAM (X)
Re: GENII SUBSCRIPTION
The issues in the mail. really.
Msg #1857 Dated 20:47:49 05-06-91 1738 <--> 1858
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
David,
Thought that I should let you know that I received my certificate and
button tooooo! Thanks, It came just in time to wear it to Day of Magic.
I gave out the number to a few people so we'll see who shows up.
Msg #1858 Dated 20:50:23 05-06-91 1857 <--> 1860
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DOUGLAS LARSON (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
Glad to hear that your Certificate and Signed, Numbered, Limited
Edition MAGIC! Button arrived on time for Day of Magic. We're always
on the lookout for a few good members...
Msg #1859 Dated 21:01:57 05-06-91
From: DENNIS PIERCE
To: ALL
Re: STILL SEARCHING...
Can anyone tell me if Ammar's Video Lecture produced by
Videonics and distributed by Robbins is still available or if there are
any on the shelf of your local shops? I'm particularly interested in
all other Volumes other then Vol. one.
Also in what book of Paul Harris does he list a sandwich move
with two cards and a spectator's card where the spectator's card
vanishes only to show up reversed back in the deck? Still searching...
Msg #1860 Dated 21:10:39 05-06-91 1858 <-
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CERTIFICATE AND BUTTON
Instantaneous response! Wow I like it.
Thanks again
Msg #1861 Dated 21:16:10 05-06-91 -> 1865
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
Some of the people that were involved in Day-O-Magic were talking about
putting together a survey or questionaire to rate the seminar and show
and were looking for some suggestions and ideas for the things that
should be included in such a project.
My thought was that there must be a hunert or more people here that
have paid money for such things and YOU would be able to give some
input into the things that should be asked. How about a few ideas for
a rating of Magic Seminars or Lectures? Who knows maybe we can start
the "Standardized MAGIC! Seminar Rating Guide" , another Magic! first.
Msg #1862 Dated 21:57:49 05-06-91 1833 <-
From: MICHAEL AMMAR
To: ANDREW T OAKDEN (X)
Re: WELCOME
Hi Andrew! I thought the elastic thread was the neatest stuff I'd ever
seen, but, as it turns out, everyone else seems to see it too! At
least, that's the way it is if there is any direct light at all. Like
I wrote in the ASPEN issue, (can't recall if I mentioned on the tape),
reflection is the problem with the elastic thread. Since it is a
synthetic, the more it stretchs, the more dense the strand becomes, and
the more it reflects the light. I would say bar lighting, but you'd
get arrested. Maybe very nice, dark restaurant lighting.
The main problem may be the horizontal hook up itself. Just too
much thread is stretched out too far. I don't use the Finn Jon hook
up, with the elastic loops, but that sounds like the best use of the
elastic. The strand is never too exposed, and once it's flush against
the skin, you'll never see it.
Another problem with the elastic thread is the control over the
bill is sacrificed because of the elasticity itself. The bill wobbles,
which is difficult to control. You can minimize it by working near the
limits of the strands stretching capacity, but that's pretty if'fy.
It isn't as practical, but the best thread for the floating bill,
as I perform it, is the non-elastic thread. The brand of thread I use
is Mettler Metroflock #100. Stretchy Wool, I believe. It costs about
$4 per 1000 meters, from such places as Clothworld, etc... The reason
I say it isn't as practical, is because SLACK is your greatest enemy
when performing the floating bill. You need something to take up the
loose, floating thread during the time you aren't actually floating the
bill. The elastic thread shrinks into itself, becoming it's own
gimmick. A lovely concept, as Max would say.
Anytime that thread is free floating, it will attract to itself,
tangling into a knot, or it will hook on a button, or any of a hundred
things. It takes premeditated, cordinated movements to occupy the
thread at all times. Sometimes, when having the primary anchor on your
body, such as the mouth, and the external anchor is something like the
deck of cards or a drinking glass, you have to move around in a sort of
circle - moving around the external anchor in a circle, the radius of
which is determined by the length of your thread.
So it takes a lot of thought to work with the non-elastic, but I
feel the effort is very much worth it. As far as the elastic is
concerned, you might consider going over it with a permanent marker
before testing it. Be real carful of the lighting - remember!
Finally, you can never really change the color of the thread by dying
or coating it, because of the nature of the substance. You can COAT
it, but you can't color it. So, whatever you use will eventually wipe
off. Just be thoughtful of it.
Msg #1864 Dated 22:26:59 05-06-91 -> 1867
From: JIM SISTI
To: ALL
Re: TRIVIA
Here's an interesting trivia question: What famous magician was the
technical advisor to the "Houdini" film from the Fifties starring Tony
Curtis and Janet Leigh? (It surprised me when I saw the credit. It
was just recently released on video.)
Msg #1865 Dated 22:27:57 05-06-91 1861 <--> 1871
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DOUGLAS LARSON (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
Sounds like a good idea, Douglas - a MAGIC! Seminar Rating Guide. How
about it folks? Anyone have some suggestions on this?
Msg #1867 Dated 22:35:00 05-06-91 1864 <--> 1868
From: STEVE KUCERA
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: TRIVIA
I had a schoolteacher named Herb Maclellan who claimed to be the
technical advisor in that film. Also went as the Amazing
Mister Mac.
He was a substitue teacher in my high school drama class and kinda
took me under his wing when he found out I was interested in magic. He
gave me my first Genii magazine and some good inspiration.
I dont know if that is the person who's name appeared on the credits
but Maclellan told me he did it. He seemed very honest ( was also a
minister) so I believed him.
Msg #1868 Dated 22:53:31 05-06-91 1864 <--> 1885
From: PETE BIRO
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: TRIVIA
George Boston was involved. Also, when Curtis and Leigh were in San
Francisco promoting the film, Sammy Davis Jr. was hanging out with them
and we taught Sammy how to do some card tricks. He was an incredibly
quick study.
Msg #1870 Dated 23:30:56 05-06-91 -> 1892
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: ALL
Re: DAY O MAGIC
Here are some thoughts I had on Day of Magic.
I must admit I had a GREAT time at Day of Magic! This was
the first all day magic event that I have attended and I got
something from each of the lectures I attended.
I went to Johnny Ace Palmers first session and discovered
that at this point in life I have NO desire to win all the
awards he has attained...Boy does he like punishment. He
raised the question about timing your act and how to get it
to a consistent time. Controlling the audience reaction
with applause and laughter and building them up for the
ultimate release of appreciation...A standing O. He also
gave some good ideas about practice and polish on your
performance.
Second session was spent with Billy McComb. He gave us some
tips on using some of the "stuff" we have all collected in
our magic closet. He also talked some about putting an
object that you want to develop into an effect where you can
look at it each night before you go to bed so that your
subconscious mind can think while you sleep... I really
liked the idea. He developed an idea using margarine tubs
for the Chinese rice bowl effect. The final thoughts he
left us with concerned what kind of questions to ask when
you are booking your performances. Included in his lecture
notes is a copy of all the pertinent things you should ask
before you give your client a price for the booking. He
related one gig he did where they announced the buffet lunch
was open just as he began his show. Guess it pays to find
out what you may be up against before you go.
Third session was with Mitch Williams. His lecture spun
around the theme of magic as an art form. He stressed the
development of your character around which the rest of your
act should be formed (i.e. effects that are not in sync with
your character leave your performance missing something.)
When you know who your character is you can eliminate those
things that are not you. His discussion of movement and
relationship to the misdirection was very good. I saw many
things during the course of the evening show that could have
been helped by the application of some of his thoughts. Boy
does it ever help cover his "puts and takes" during his act.
He also covered some ideas about how to solve problems or
come up with new ideas. He takes the concept of
brainstorming and applies it to magic and the working of
effects.
I spent the last session with Joycee Beck. She had many
good things to say but most were not new or special. I wish
that she could have tied more of what she said to magic and
left out some of the numbers and percentages. She certainly
must apply the things she talked about. She continued
through the people walking out in the middle and didn't even
break a sweat.
The dealers room was packed and seemed to be doing a brisk
business. I got out with only a small purchase, but had to
talk my self out of three or for things to do it.
General comments that I have are that the Day of Magic was
well worth the money. I did think that the lecture notes
were a little over priced at ten bucks. It seems that the
lecturers were together on the prices. I find this is a bit
high when you can buy a hard bound book with pictures and
300 or more pages for 39.95. I think that a lot of credit
has to go to the handfull of people in Ring 21 that put
this show on. Contrary to what you might think this event
was the work of about 6 or 8 very dedicated people. Kudos
to JS, WC, LM.
The Night of Magic Show was A GREAT SHOW! It had something
for every one. Comedy, Intrigue, Mystery, Skill, Color,
Dancing girls, Lights, Smoke, and Fire. Hobson did a
fantastic job as MC and really filled the stretch time
during the performance of Russell Lewis. This act needs
lots more work. I enjoyed watching Mitch Williams perform
after hearing his lecturer, he made a believer out of me!
When you consider that this show came together with the Day
of Magic I think that those of you that couldn't be there
really missed a great treat. Make plans to be there next
year if you can.
Hope that some of the other people that attended can leave us their
impressions on Day of Magic.
Msg #1871 Dated 23:48:15 05-06-91 1865 <--> 1874
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
A Seminar Ratings Guide is a good idea -- except to honestly rate
something, people have to be willing to say less than positive things.
And, to be honest, it does seem a lot of times that when people are
bold enough to state negative opinions, they get jumped on.
Msg #1872 Dated 23:51:27 05-06-91 -> 1877
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: TV THING
That TV show I mentioned to you a few weeks ago...? Well, it WOULD
have been on this Wednesday, but the ratings were so bad the first two
weeks that ABC is pulling it and putting "Anything But Love" back on.
Supposedly they're going to reschedule it, so they'll probably dump the
remaining five episodes during the summer. Depression at not seeing my
show on is slightly buoyed by knowing the guy I worked for must be
REALLY miserable at having the show pulled!
Msg #1873 Dated 0:03:27 05-07-91 1699 <-
From: JERRY BURTON
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: MAGIC! SPECIAL
Count me in on the Ammar book deal, check is in
tomorrow's mail.
.
Burton the Bizarre.
Msg #1874 Dated 23:58:13 05-06-91 1871 <--> 1879
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
Seems to me that around here people have had to defend positive
opinions as well as negative ones. Personally, I think that each can
be distortions of reality - look at many newspaper and magazine critics
who seem to feel that if they don't write a negative review they aren't
doing their job. Or perhaps that they have to appear so "world weary"
that only a negative review will show how smart they are.
MAGIC! is an interactive gathering. As such, any opinion is bound to
become the topic of question and sometimes even heated debate. In my
mind, that helps keep all of us "honest." I've taken some heat for my
comments on occassion, so have others. And we all get a better view as
a result.
I personally like the idea of a MAGIC! Seminar Rating Guide.
Msg #1875 Dated 0:03:52 05-07-91 -> 1880
From: JERRY BURTON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: RDMAGIC
Just uploading another version of RDMAGIC this one is
ready to go. Still trying to figure out how to get
out of the ASCII upload automatically. When I upload a
response I have to manually end the dialogue. Need
to be able to get out automatically do the save and
get back into ER;xxxx for the next response, for
automating the reply process.
.
Suggestion on naming old txt files. I use m-01-000.txt,
m-02-005.txt, etc. the 01,02,..21 are the numbers you
assigned. The 000 means msg # 0-499, 005 means 500-999,
010 means 1000-1499 etc. this way I can figure out
which text file to go to if I know what msg range a subject
is in, or I can use the IDX file to look up what file it
is in - just a thought. It makes sense to me, maybe no
one else.
.
Did I mention that Card on Aiplane Window is actually in
a thread called 'Card Ideas' started as Msg # 2782 by
Jonathan Kaufthal. It is in file magic-06 (my file
m-06-025.txt).
.
I now have one monster file magic0.txt which contains
your file 01-20. It is about 3.9 megaBytes. It is a
real education to walk the threads and see history
in the making. This is like an on-line interactive
novel that you can control the order of reading.
Fun stuff.
.
Will try to get to the castle for lunch Friday, will
bring some disks - as this is too much data to upload.
.
Burton the Bizarre.
Msg #1876 Dated 0:06:57 05-07-91 -> 1893
From: JERRY BURTON
To: ALL
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
I forgot to mention Cyril Takayama, a 17 year old,
who did a suberb classic maniplualation act in the
DOM show. He showed a great deal of poise for one
of his (or any) age.
.
I'm sure we will be seeing him in the future as one
of the new stars of magic.
.
BB
Msg #1877 Dated 0:06:21 05-07-91 1872 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: TV THING
Oooops! Sorry to hear about your show's posponement, Evan. Believe
me, I know the feeling when stuff like that happens. I've worked like
H_ll on projects only to have 'em "dumped" for reasons that had nothing
to to with my efforts. You gotta mourn for no more than 24 hours and
then pick up the phone and start seeing what's out there.
Msg #1878 Dated 0:07:58 05-07-91 -> 1902
From: JERRY BURTON
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Went down to Magic Island to see Vito Lupo & Becky Blaney
last Friday night. After the show had a chance to ask Vito
about the recorder and the lights.
.
The lights were too bright as he likes to 'see' his
audience (that fact they can't see him is another issue).
.
He had asked for a 'boombox' and was there 2 1/2 hours
before the lecture - someone at the castle dropped the ball
on that one.
.
Regarding his act, fast paced manipulation, very oral. He
does linking razor blades and an incredibly long streamer
coming out of his mouth as a finale. He doesn't do the
color changing golf balls in the act (a shame that is one
of the prettiest and most artful switches I have ever seen).
Very original work and good stage presence, all in all
about an 8+.
.
Becky Blaney has come a long way, she is really funny.
The running gag of Miss Weed-whacker, Miss ... really
kills. She is definitely comedy club in terms of language
and material choice. It went over well at the Island,
but would not be acceptable at the Castle. She pulls
the shirt off a guy from audience that blows everyone
away. I have no idea how it was done unless the guy
was a stooge. Didn't seem so.
.
Regards - Burton the Bizarre
Msg #1879 Dated 0:10:32 05-07-91 1874 <--> 1881
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
Heated debate is good, I agree. I am merely objecting to the knee-jerk
puffery that often presents itself as a review -- film, theatre, TV and
critics of all kinds engage in this kind of thing.
And in terms of encouraging heated debate on the board, do you ever see
any debate generated off a GOOD review of something? Not usually...
It's when someone's got the guts to say something negative that a
debate starts!
Msg #1880 Dated 0:10:19 05-07-91 1875 <--> 1943
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: RDMAGIC
To automatically end an ASCII message upload, just end the message with
a really blank line. That will send two carriage return/line feed
characters in a row and will trigger the end of message on MAGIC! BUT
you still have to type S to Save it.
Your message scheme m-01-001, etc. is interesting, but it is also easy
to figure out the files - effectively, MAGIC-01 is messages 0 to 499,
MAGIC-02 is 500 to 999, etc. until MAGIC-20 which is 9500 to 9999.
Mathematical precision. Of course, after 20 the renumbering starts,
but again, the "1" in 21 indicates 0 to 499, etc.
Can't wait to look at the new RDMAGIC! You are working on something
truly significant here!
Msg #1881 Dated 0:15:54 05-07-91 1879 <--> 1883
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
That's an "instant" reply, Evan! Personally, I think there is
"puffery" and there is "puffery." If you get to know a person's style
you will quickly determine which is which.
I, for example, was raised in a Southern tradition that says that you
don't blow your own horn too loudly and that if "you haven't got
something good to say, don't say it." (Thumper, in Bambi, also espouses
this view).
Seems to me that it was my "good" review that generated the Vito Lupo
debate!
Msg #1883 Dated 0:35:08 05-07-91 1881 <--> 1886
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOZZK!
That was me blowing my horn.
I guess I was raised in the "New York" tradition that says, "if you
haven't got something good to say, say it loudly and repeat it four
times.
Msg #1884 Dated 0:36:43 05-07-91 -> 1887
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: T_WINDOW.PCX
David--
Would you please refresh my memory? I downloaded T_WINDOW.PCX,
viewed it, can SORT of see something... But I'm wondering what "proof"
I'm looking at. I guess I missed the specific message which led up to
the inclusion of this file. I sense it has great significance. Please
elaborate...
Msg #1885 Dated 0:51:29 05-07-91 1864 <--> 1922
From: MANNY WELTMAN
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: TRIVIA
Although it says Dunninger, I don't know how much advise he gave. They
may have only used his name.. George Boston was the real technical
advisor.
Msg #1886 Dated 1:03:23 05-07-91 1883 <--> 1895
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
That's how we knew you'z guys were comin' during the "Late
Unpleasantness." Alas, we lacked the weaponry to do much about it.
In a way, the relative lack of a horn button did leave me a bit
ill-equipped for the United States of the 1980's. I'm hoping that the
1990's will be a bit more civilized.
Msg #1887 Dated 1:07:23 05-07-91 1884 <--> 1907
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: T_WINDOW.PCX
I'm told that what you are seeing is David Copperfield's hand as it is
about to spring the cards at the window. It is the "breaching whale"
looking thing at the bottom center of the screen. In the center of the
window is the "flyswatter," re-ascending to the top of the car after
slapping the card on to the window.
Msg #1888 Dated 1:09:52 05-07-91 -> 1906
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: ON MAGIC! A LOT!
Just thought I'd mention, for the record, that this is my 2,001st time on
MAGIC!
Msg #1889 Dated 1:13:23 05-07-91
From: RICHARD HART
To: ALL
Re: UP THE FLAGPOLE, AND...
A few ideas from my notebook that I've been toying with:
1. Take a white Fantasio Vanishing cane. Open it and
holding it vertically, drop a small chunk of dry ice
down to the bottom of the tip end. Then, immerse the
tip end in a glass of warm water. When the vapor has
reached the top, put on the cap. If the cane is then
vanished, will the "mist" make it look like the cane
has vanished into a cylindrical plume of smoke? I
haven't tried this, but think it would look spiffy.
Question is, how long would the enclosed mist last?
Would it be visible enough on stage? Next time I get
ahold of some dry ice, I've GOT to experiment! Come
to think of it, could you couple this with a white
cane production by using one of Jay Scott Berry's
hand-held dry ice foggers? Left hand holding the
fogger draws a vertical smoke line in the air, and
right hand reaches into the mist, producing a white
cane. Hmm.
2. I've always liked David Ginn's Kansas Twister ribbon
idea (a three foot piece of string tied in a loop for
your finger, and the other end tied to a small lead
weight attached to a 3-6 foot ribbon or crepe paper
streamer--when spun around, looks magical.) Try
taking a 24-36 inch silk and attaching a small fishing
sinker to one corner, and a loop of fishing line to an
adjacent corner. To use as silks in a doves from silks
routine, make up two of these silks. Place line loops
over each index finger, tucking the remaining silk and
lead weight up each sleeve, the weight being closest
to the cuff. Hands are shown empty, chest high, palms
toward audience, fingers pointing toward ceiling.
Thumbs and index fingers make an "OK" sign then hands
are rapidly moved downward with a snapping motion
(as if throwing something straight down) causing the
weights in the silks to exit the sleeves, pulling the
silks into view. In a continuing motion BOTH hands
are rotated clockwise (performer's P.O.V.) spinning
the silks. Care must be taken to allow enough
clearance so as to prevent the silks from colliding,
and timing the spins so that the weight on the left
hand silk is passing in front of the body in a downward
arc at the same time the weight on the right hand silk
is passing in front of the body in an upward arc.
After a few spins are made, the hands are brought
close enough together to cause the weighted ends of the
silks to collide and become entangled. At the instant
the collision occurs the thumbs are raised and
inserted into the loop(s) of a double dove production
gimmick. The 2nd, 3rd, and 4th fingers grab each end
of the silks, and the tangled silks are pulled taut,
at the same time producing the doves. Voila!
Msg #1890 Dated 1:56:22 05-07-91 -> 1891
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: ISLAND MAGIC
Here's a thread that was inspired by a post a couple of days ago. I
think that it could actually lead to some interesting things...
Suppose you were about to be shipwrecked on an island inhabited by
natives with no contact with the outside world. Suppose further that
if you can't convince them that you are "magical," it is likely that
you will be killed.
What ONE effect would you choose to perform for this group?
What ONE prop/gaff/item would you like to have on your person?
Note: Cannibal Cards is NOT eligible for consideration!
Msg #1891 Dated 2:04:21 05-07-91 1890 <-
From: RICHARD HART
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ISLAND MAGIC
Good question. I assume a Copperfield "Appearing squad of Green
Berets" would be out of the question?
What is most magical? Christ's (sorry, no disrespect intended here)
Bread and Fishes? Moses' and Aeron's Staff to Snake? Twain's Solar
eclipse prediction? Guffaw, guffaw.
Drown a comely looking lass and bring her back to life a la artificial
respiration? Hmmm, what WOULD impress the natives?
Get three half coconut shells and do cups and balls. Follow it up with
Cut and restored vine. Finish up with the Invisible Deck. After all,
if the Invisible Deck don't get 'em, life just ain't worth living!
Msg #1892 Dated 8:10:55 05-07-91 1870 <--> 1942
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: DOUGLAS LARSON (X)
Re: DAY O MAGIC
I have to agree with you on Russell Lewis. The show has potential but it
is not ready to put on the stage. Money cannot buy experience or
practice, which is what I believe is needed.
Msg #1893 Dated 8:17:29 05-07-91 1876 <-
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: DAY OF MAGIC
I also enjoyed Cyril'magic. I think he will be someone to keep your
eyes on in the future!!!!
Msg #1894 Dated 8:26:47 05-07-91 1836 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ILL OF YOU JUST IN CASE Y
For some reason about half of my message didn't get thru....the rest
was about my putting pressure on El Petro to book this man for the
I.B.M. in SLC next year! However, I want to work on trying to create
a proper venue for him...maybe put him in the hotel bar every night and
cycle the crowd thru (but the number are still too big...will have to
work on this). He seems to be a very good person. I sensed a solid
foundation in magic and an excellent ability to select the correct
material. I got a tape from him but the damn thing went blank just as
he was about to reveal old Dexter's card about 25 minutes into the
action....have mailed it off to the Doctor for a
replacement...meanwhile Dexter's card will stay on my mind.! Somehow
he knew who I was....no doubt a plot of yours! At any rate, we spoke
ill of you since you were not there.
Msg #1895 Dated 8:32:59 05-07-91 1865 <--> 1900
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
and just how ....dear heart....does a "rating guide" of any sort reduce
the human judgement element....???
I fear beauty will always be in the eye of the beholder regardless of
his being a magician or a gardner.
Msg #1896 Dated 8:38:34 05-07-91 1652 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MUSIC CITY CONCLAVE
T.C. -
This may seem an obvious question...but wouldn't you set your
"ticket price" based on your costs? Although we have quite a few
years of data, the basic approach is to add up all known costs,
estimate the unknowns (based on historic data or "best" educated
guess) and then take a WAG (Wild Assed Guess) at your anticipated
attendance. Somehow you got to know what size the "nut" is that you
will need to crack. Unless you got a sponsor, then you have to
charge enough to cover the nut. How much margin over the nut you
charge is up to you and whatever other factors are at play. Are
there any other sources of income such as public ticket sales,
program ads, or dealer booth fees?
We (IBM) are $60 for four days, but anticipate having to
increase in the near future because of airfares, etc. However, it is
very difficult to compare other convention fees without knowing
what's covered. For example some have meals, etc.
Is Genii your only advertising effort? Why not bring a pile of
flyers with registration blank at bottom to the IBM in Balama next
month? We should be attracting the same market in the Eastern half
of the country that you will in Nashville. We had a great draw in
Nashville in 1987. We didn't anticipate the volume at all. Ever go
to Helma's Soup Kettle downtown? She played the harmonica with Paul
Daniel's on one of the shows.
Feel free to ask any questions about convention planning...I
will be glad to help if I can.
W. A. W.
Msg #1897 Dated 8:39:31 05-07-91 1757 <--> 1905
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ???
Dear King of Koins -
I have seen many dollar size OKITO Boxes over the years, but
don't own any for some reason (I use silver dollars in a number of
effects). I am sure Johnson Products would make them up for you. I
would also suggest that you check with Al Cohen down on Vermont
(right on McPherson Square Metro stop). Al had a guy that was making
pretty decent boxes for him awhile ago and Al is a very honest guy if
you don't already know him. If you don't already know him, you
should! Might also check used magic lists.
- M.O.B.
Msg #1898 Dated 8:40:00 05-07-91 1762 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: STEVE BRYANT (X)
Re: IBM
Steve -
I trust the final two parts of my reply got through the
ether...I would agree that to a large extent, a group is a group is a
group....I think we can agree to agree and get on with more wonderful
and perhaps stranger phenomena of the universe!
- Bill
Msg #1899 Dated 8:40:21 05-07-91 -> 1903
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ELMSLEY COUNT
Pete and other interested parties...
Regarding the Ghost Count (as it is called in that original
effect of Elmsley's that you can't find) or what has become known as
the "Elmsley Count" and the comments on the position of the cards in
Vernon's Twisting the Aces: It has always been my understanding that
the positioning of the cards at the fingertips and execution of the
"Elmsley Count" while in that position was ONLY done by Vernon in
this particularly effect! The reason being that this is where the
cards end up after the twist! To do a normal "count" one would have
to reposition the cards - an unnatural action if you aren't doing
something innocent. Therefore Vernon keep the cards at the
fingertips and executed the count without repositioning. I don't
remember for certain why I know this, but I think the Professor told
me. I know I didn't dream it up. I have always been amazed at how
many people do the "count" at the fingertips a la Twisting the Aces
when it looks so unnatural outside the context of "Twisting".
Msg #1900 Dated 8:45:03 05-07-91 1895 <--> 1912
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
Ideally, a rating guide does NOT reduce the "human judgement element."
But the proper items on such a guide could make the judgement more
comparable with the judgements of others. Also, a good rating guide
would provide a pool of information that is non-judgemental - for
example: "Are lecture notes available?"
I didn't say it would be easy to develop such a guide. I didn't say it
would be infallible. I didn't say that I would develop such a guide,
I merely said that it was a worthy idea and that I would support it.
Msg #1901 Dated 9:20:39 05-07-91
From: BRUCE SANDERCOCK
To: TABBY CRAB
Re: SPEED
Eureka! Now able to capture RC;*. Thanks again.
Msg #1902 Dated 9:32:29 05-07-91 1878 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: VITO LUPO
Interesting...
...I guess the lack of lighting for an OPENING, SILENT routine was a
choice, albeit an unfortunate one, that Vito himself made. I
understand that he likes to "see" his audience...but why can't he
adjust the lights after his opening sequence?---or not do a silent
opener? These are questions that I guess only Vito can answer...and by
asking them I certainly run the risk of being accused of "criticizing"
him again. Gee.
Msg #1903 Dated 11:24:46 05-07-91 1899 <--> 1917
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: ELMSLEY COUNT
Bill,
I actually prefer the fingertip count. If you can find my message
about Vernon's Variant, The fingertip grip, to me, actually improves
the effect by making it all look "clean" as if I don't even want to
handle them in the first place. For some reason, the Mechanics grip and
pulling cards off with the hand that holds the cards seems very
unnatural to me in the first
place
Until I can find a count that looks as if I'm actually counting the
cards off the stack into my other hand, I'll stick to Vernon's grip.
David (the other one)
Msg #1905 Dated 11:48:35 05-07-91 1897 <--> 1976
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: ???
Yes, Doc is a good person. Tried to call him a few minits ago but
he's still on the road and due in tonight. Thanks for the info on
ticket price for Nashville. It's kinda working out where the nut
is around 10k for the conclave. I'm not concerned about making a
profit, but I am concerned about not making a loss since there
are no sponsors (outside of tabman). I'm more or less doing this
for ME. I'm pretty hard to satisfy, so I know if I like it it
should be a good one. The only meal we'll (me'll) furnish is
brunch on Sunday. I appreciate the offer of bringing flyers up to
Balto and will do it. I may advertise some other than Genii
(Linking Ring) but don't want to have to turn anybody away as 150
seems to be a managable number. Mark your calandar for June 27 to
come down to Spring Hill for a little R&R BBQ with Pete and
Dave. A small get together, but quality people for sure. Spring
Hill will be The Hotel DeCarlo for a coupla days
Msg #1906 Dated 12:02:19 05-07-91 1888 <-
From: MARVIN STERN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ON MAGIC! A LOT!
That's a lot of talking.
Msg #1907 Dated 12:22:42 05-07-91 1887 <--> 1910
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: T_WINDOW.PCX
For sure? That's AMAZING!
Msg #1910 Dated 15:41:23 05-07-91 1907 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: T_WINDOW.PCX
If you believe the hypothesis it is!
Msg #1912 Dated 15:43:55 05-07-91 1861 <--> 1941
From: STAN LAKE
To: DOUGLAS LARSON (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
I have a couple of ideas right off. A rating guide should have more
than just a 1 to 10 rating on how well we liked something. There
should be room for actual opinions, comments, criticisms and ataboys.
Some obvious rating criteria that come to mind would be...
Was it useful information, was it what I thought it would be, was it
complete enough by itself or was it a teaser to buy the notes and
books, was the speaker well informed on the subject and able to clearly
answer questions, was the lecture well thought out and structured so
that it came across clearly, and last but not least, did I think it was
worth it?
Obviously, different people go to lectures to learn different things.
I thought Mitch Williams lecture at the Day of Magic was very helpful
to me yet others found it pointless to them and a few others nodded
off!
During the evening show, I watched a brave young (17) Cyril Takayama
having much trouble with his show. I was cringing inside and feeling
sorry for the young man as he did his best to put on a good show.
After he was done I was happily surprised to hear the biggest applause
for the evening went his way. I don't think it was just sympathy, they
really enjoyed it, so everyone has a different point of view on what
they do and don't like. That's why I think a survey needs more than
just a numbering system to find out not just what but why people liked
what they like.
As far as someone jumping on me because they don't agree with my
opinions- so what- who cares? I'm not a professional critic or writer
or even a professional magician. But I do have some experiences and a
point of view to communicate to anyone who wants to know what it is.
Take it or leave it, it won't hurt my feelings. The more of us who do
take the time to talk about what we thought about these seminars etc.
the more complete the picture is of how well it did or didn't go.
Msg #1914 Dated 16:34:34 05-07-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC-23
The twenty-third set of MAGIC! messages - #1000 (April 25, 1991) to
#1499 (May 1, 1991) - has been transferred to a downloadable
file. The file is named MAGIC-23.TXT. This means that you can
now go to the file area, download this file, and read the twenty-
third volume of messages off-line. For those who know how to
use the PKUNZIP system for uncompressing files, there is a
compressed version of this same file. It is called MAGIC-23.ZIP
and is less than 1/2 the size of the full-text version.
Keen insight into the mind of a truly great performer can be
gained from reading Tommy Wonder's message regarding Zombie Balls
(# 1347, relayed from the Netherlands via MAGIC-NL).
This volume includes a number of recommendations for magic for
young performers, including Pete Biro's version of Stab a Deck
(# 1006), Richard Hart's double deal with queens (# 1028),
Michael Ammar's Disguised Aces (# 1038), David Lichtman's
suggestions for non-card tricks along with some recommended
books and videos (# 1039), Max Maven's suggestions for children's
tricks (# 1051), and Richard Hart's book and trick suggestions
(# 1054). David Lichtman describes some toy store props in # 1187.
In message # 1584, Pete Biro traces the publication of ring tricks
(linking rings, ring from cheek to stick) back to 1584 and Scot's
Discovery of Witchcraft. In the later parts of the file, there is
a very active discussion concerning the inclusion of escapology and
mentalism in magic. And, in message # 1487, Stan Lake begins a
discussion of the Elmsley Count.
Tabby Crabb's on-the-scene reports on FFFF begin with message # 1083.
MAGIC-NL (Netherlands) provides two more of the historic letters from
Pete Biro to Fred Kaps (# 1243 and 1244). Reviews of Vito Lupo's
lecture at the Magic Castle, and a resulting discussion of the role
of preparation begin at message # 1261. Some hints on getting
quality promotional pictures start with message # 1036. Steve Kucera
begins a thread on humor in different cultures in message # 1091.
David VanVranken provides the last word on Copperfield's Card on Train
Window in message # 1098, complete with a photo in the files
(T_WINDOW.PCX). Scott Cram suggests the idea of magic trading cards
(# 1017). A series of questions and answers about Houdini spreads
throughout the set of messages, involving Houdini expert Manny Weltman.
The conversation on the quality of magic books, began in MAGIC-22,
continues with Bill Wells message, # 1387.
There is, of course, the usual MAGIC! gossip, chit-chat and banter.
Not only will transferring these messages to a file make it easier
for you to obtain a complete set of them, but it will make the
search for new messages easier and faster.
Msg #1917 Dated 17:18:01 05-07-91 1899 <--> 1950
From: MAX MAVEN
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: ELMSLEY COUNT
Actually, you've got it backwards: Dai devised the twisting action as
a means of getting directly into the Pinch Grip position which, at that
time, was the established way of holding cards for this type of count.
Can't agree that the Pinch Grip is inherently unnatural; it can be
made to look very good, while conversely the so-called "pro" version
(in which the cards are taken into a dealing grip) most often yields a
very confusing visual.
Msg #1919 Dated 18:10:35 05-07-91 1808 <--> 1931
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAC ADVICE
How about Pass de Titanic?
Or better yet, Mexican Independence Day! Just saw a report on American
vs. Mexican pay. Get this-the average worker here earns $10.47/hr. In
mexico, it's only $.57/hr. Yikes!
Msg #1920 Dated 18:13:09 05-07-91 1849 <--> 1926
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: GENII SUBSCRIPTION
I figured it was, but when you send $55 thru the mail, you get nervous.
If anyone else ever asks you a question about their subscription
similar to mine, try and avoid "The issue is in the mail". It sounds
too much like "The check is in the mail". Thanks for calming a worried
subscriber!
Msg #1921 Dated 18:19:19 05-07-91 -> 1953
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: ALL
Re: STUFF
Well, let's see. Tomorrow being the 2nd wednesday of the month, our
local SAM assembly is meeting. The theme is Flea Market. This should be
fun! Actually, tonight there is an Oakland Magic Circle Magic Auction,
but it's at night, and i'm not about to go into Oakland at night. Maybe
I'll get rid of some of my old magic, and maybe pick up other effects.
One of our potential members was recently extolling the virtues (ooh!
classy talk!) of the Jumping Gems effect. He wants to know if there's
anyone out there who could make a matching set of sticks with all
"diamonds" on one side (about 6), and all "rubies" on the other. Any
takers? Or will he have to contact the manufacturer?
This same guy is practicing the linking rings, and is blowing people to
whom he shows it away. Even fellow magi! Once he gets going on an
effect - Geeeeeeeeez!
Will report later on how the actual SAM went. (Like you're really
interested, ha, ha).
Just got a letter from "Tarbell Treasures" author Dean Montalbano. He
got accepted by the Oreo people, and has a summer job! Also, he sent
along a picture of his work in prostetics. You should see him with a
bald head wig! It's hilarious!
Speaking of Oreos, I'd like to thank the people from Nabisco for
sending a letter of who to call for the dates, and for sending the info
2 days AFTER the auditions took place! Good Joob guys!
Later!
Keebler Devotee Scott Cram
Msg #1922 Dated 19:22:04 05-07-91 1867 <--> 1923
From: JIM SISTI
To: STEVE KUCERA (X)
Re: TRIVIA
That may be true, but he wasn't credited. Stay tuned for the answer.
Msg #1923 Dated 19:22:48 05-07-91 1868 <--> 1924
From: JIM SISTI
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TRIVIA
He might have been involved but wasn't themagician who showed up in the
credits.
Msg #1924 Dated 19:23:43 05-07-91 1885 <-
From: JIM SISTI
To: MANNY WELTMAN (X)
Re: TRIVIA
OK...you got it! Dunninger was the name that was credited. I agree
with you in wondering exactly how much help he lent to the film (whihc
was historically riddled with errors...)
Msg #1926 Dated 20:29:40 05-07-91 1920 <-
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: SCOTT CRAM
Re: GENII SUBSCRIPTION
It's Genii humor.
Msg #1927 Dated 20:31:52 05-07-91 -> 1933
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: ALL
Re: BLACK & TELLER
F.Y.I. Harry Blackstone and Penn & Teller
are scheduled to appear on the show "Closer
Look" with Faith Daniels on N.B.C. - Wednesday
- 10.00 A.M pacific time so I assume 1.00 p.m.
eastern time. They are going to have a nice
little chat about magic. watch it!
Msg #1928 Dated 20:38:40 05-07-91
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X)
Re: YOUR BOOK
I talked with Louis Falanga today. He is extremely exited about your
book. Louis thinks that it will be the best seller he's ever
published. There has already been good reaction from his mailing and he
expects to be deluged with orders when the ads hit the magazines.
Sounds like this will be another "classic" or "must have" book for
every magicians library. I hope you get RICH!
Msg #1931 Dated 20:55:34 05-07-91 1919 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: SCOTT CRAM
Re: MAC ADVICE
Yeah! I know! We pay people too darn much!
Msg #1933 Dated 21:01:35 05-07-91 1927 <--> 1936
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: BLACK & TELLER
It is my understanding that the Blackstone and Penn & Teller appearance
on "Closer Look" is being taped tomorrow rather than shown live. BUT
I could be wrong, so it probably pays to check it out at 10:00 a.m.
Pacific, 1:00 Eastern on NBC. Those of you in between those cities
should check your local listings for time and channel...
Msg #1936 Dated 21:34:53 05-07-91 1933 <--> 1951
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BLACK & TELLER
Yes, it's being TAPED tomorrow for airing at a date yet T.B.A.
Usually the show is live, but this one is not scheduled to be...
...unless something has changed. Hmmm..
Msg #1938 Dated 21:58:29 05-07-91 -> 1944
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: NUTTIN
Just got to my hotel (Holiday Inn Airport, L.A.) and am whipped going
to hit the sack and fly to Indiana in the morning. But wanted to say We
went to the courthouse and for the second time the sue-ing party was a
NO SHOW! Crum. Now a trial instead of Arbitration set for Oct. Can't
say who is sueing but when it is over you will be first to know.
Glad to see lots of messages online. Enjoyed reading, but dumb phone
connectin here lots of line noise, etc. and my battery died... in the
middle of it all... Now on AC but no replies just good readin'
Adios, be n late in the week. I will lecture end of month back in
Indiana... adios.
Msg #1941 Dated 22:41:56 05-07-91 1871 <--> 1949
From: JERRY BURTON
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
Honest criticism does not have to be negative.
If you state your honest opinion, and you have
rational reasons for such opinions, they don't
have to be negative.
.
For example, if you see an act that you don't
think works, and you state the reasons that it
doesn't work FOR YOU, and can state what WOULD
have made it more enjoyable. The criticism can
be used as a positive comment to improve the act.
To merely say the guy was a 'jerk' or his act
'stunk' without stating what would have made it
work for YOU, serves no useful purpose.
.
We have a Magic Workshop down here in Orange County
where a bunch of us get together and try out new
stuff at least once a month. The criticism can
be brutal, if you are off target. It doesn't help
a bit to have people play 'Emperor's Clothes'
or delude you into thinking what you are doing
is great, when in fact it doesn't really work.
Rarely do you have an opportunity to poll an
audience on what they thought of your act. But
it is extremely valuable to have a 'peer review'
in the form of an evaluation form.
.
A Magic Review done in a positive manner, should
include criticism, as well as praise (when deserved),
if done in the proper spirit.
.
Constructive criticism can be a powerful force
to improve the art of magic for everyone, both
performer and spectator, alike.
.
Don't be afraid to speak your mind. If you think
something 'stinks', say why. If other people
don't agree, then maybe they see something you
don't or have different tastes. Getting jumped
on can be instructive as well, youe opinion is
as valuable as anyone elses, hang in there !
.
Burton the Bizarre.
Msg #1942 Dated 22:42:37 05-07-91 1870 <--> 1982
From: JERRY BURTON
To: DOUGLAS LARSON (X)
Re: DAY O MAGIC
Consider that the lecturer has produced a limited
number of lecture notes AT HIS OWN expense and
does not have the large market that a book does.
.
I sometimes buy lecture notes from lecturers
that I know I will never use. It's my way of
thanking them for all the hard work it took to
put together an enjoyable lecture.
.
I bought Hobson's tape and lecture notes, even
though I am absolutely certain I'll never set
foot in a comedy club. I just like to support
the PROs, and make it worth their while to
come and share their ideas with us.
.
I have gone to lectures, given by people that
probably should not be lecturering, and have
not bought their notes. By voting with your
dollars you let them know in a meaningful
way how their lecture is being received.
.
Just a thought - Burton the Bizarre.
s
Msg #1943 Dated 23:14:23 05-07-91 1880 <--> 1946
From: JERRY BURTON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: RDMAGIC
Sorry to hear I have to intervene with an S to save, this means the
reply portion of RDMAGIC will have to create individual replies and
you will have to use multiple ASCII uploads - bummer.
It also means you will have to manually keep track of the individual
file names for the replies ypu want uploaded (e.g. procomm asks for
a file name for EACH file you upload).
I'll go a head & write it with that restriction. Each reply is a
separate file - ecchh !
BB
Msg #1944 Dated 23:30:25 05-07-91 1938 <--> 2001
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: NUTTIN
We're thinkin' of you, Pete. And trying to keep MAGIC! alive until you
can be vocal - er, whatever it is on a keyboard - again. Keep up the
good work!
Msg #1946 Dated 23:35:31 05-07-91 1943 <--> 2042
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: RDMAGIC
We MAY be able to straighten it out in the Comm program. Let a script
do the uploads. If you have a better idea for uploading and still
keeping the individual replies/appends straight, let me know and I'll
pass it on to programming. They are willing to make worthwhile
changes.
Msg #1947 Dated 23:36:53 05-07-91 -> 2002
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGIC WORK...
GGGGG EEEEE TTTTTTTT '' EEEEE MMMM MMMM
GG E TT '' E MMMM MMMM
GG GG EEE TT EEE MM MMM MM
GG G E TT E MM M MM ,,
GGGGG EEEEE TT EEEEE MM MM ,,
TTTTTTTT II GGGGG EEEEE RRRRR !!
TT II GG E R R !!
TT II GG GG EEE RRRRR !!
TT II GG G E R R
TT II GGGGG EEEEE R R !!
Msg #1949 Dated 23:45:11 05-07-91 1941 <--> 1962
From: EVAN KATZ
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
Jerry, I didn't say criticism HAD to be negative. I said an honest
critic has to be unafraid of being negative. Which I don't think is
true of many people who review magical events. Their enthusiasm
becomes more important (perhaps for good reasons) then a critical eye.
Also, nobody likes a critic!
Msg #1950 Dated 23:47:46 05-07-91 1917 <--> 1969
From: EVAN KATZ
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: ELMSLEY COUNT
Would love to hear your thoughts on making the Pinch Grip more natural.
This is motivated by my greater ease with this grip -- hard as I try,
I just can't get as good with the dealing grip approach. I know
attitudinal approach to the Pinch Grip is to act like -- look, I'm
being so fair here I'm keeping the cards as out in the open as
possible...
Any other thoughts you'd care to share?
Msg #1951 Dated 23:51:43 05-07-91 1933 <--> 1952
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BLACK & TELLER
Generally network shows are not in different times in different zones.
"Live" shows like "Nightline" and "Saturday Night..." are live in New
York, and shown on tape out West. Not sure if this is true of the
"Today" show and the like.
Msg #1952 Dated 23:52:51 05-07-91 1936 <--> 1972
From: EVAN KATZ
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: BLACK & TELLER
Would appreciate any info when people discover when the show will be
aired!
Msg #1953 Dated 23:55:48 05-07-91 1921 <-
From: EVAN KATZ
To: SCOTT CRAM
Re: STUFF
Try Hydrox.
Msg #1961 Dated 0:13:19 05-08-91 -> 2005
From: EVAN KATZ
To: ALL
Re: QUOTATION MARKS
It was very late last night, and I was reading the latest APOCALYPSE,
and something suddenly struck me. Something that's been bothering me
for years and years, buried beneath the surface, just waiting for the
right spark of realization...
I decided that Harry Lorayne uses too many quotation marks.
The closer I examined the text, the clearer it seemed. The average
paragraph has FOUR quotation marks not relating to patter or dialogue. Four
quotation marks that enclosed words Harry wishes to indicate were somehow
"special." Some of the words Harry saw fit to denote as fitting of
special attention by enclosing in quotes: return, travels, separates,
glide, set, empty, best...
The list goes on. It began to drive me crazy. I pulled out old books.
No, this was not the style of a man who had to make a deadline. This
perceived overuse of commas peppers his entire published oeuvre. Or
whatever that word is.
I simmered. I boiled. I pulled out a popular College Handbook on
Grammer. And all my hopes were spilled. Under the allowable use of
quotation marks, is listed:
Use quoation marks to show someone else has used a word
in a special way, one that you or the general public may
not use of agree with completely...
I was crushed. Though the rules are not with me, I still find his use
of the quotation mark egregious. If others of you agree, after reading
Harry's writing with this information in mind, perhaps we can start a
letter writing campaign. "FREE THE QUOTATION MARKS" "SAVE INK" or
something like that.
All constructive suggestions are welcome.
Msg #1962 Dated 0:24:39 05-08-91 1912 <--> 1973
From: EVAN KATZ
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
Here's an idea for magic reviews. I really think it'll take off. No
longer will we have to worry about being critical or hurting anyone's
feelings, or for even THINKING! All we have to do is use the text
below, and fill in the appropriate blanks. It's sort of "Mad Libs" for
magicians!
REVIEW OF (name of performer, show) on (date) at (venue).
(Name of Performer) was in fine form tonight. This was one of the best
shows I've seen! His/her performance of the ( effect) was the
best handling of this classic since I saw (select respected magician)
do it in (appropriate year)!
(Performer) started his fine set with a performance of (effect). The
audience was completely baffled. The he/she followed with a flawless
(linking rings; cups and balls; other standard), to which (performer)
supplied a special twist. Luckily the audience didn't seem to
have seen Penn & Teller's expose of (effect) on their last television
special. Can you believe those guys?
The show progressed nicely with (performer)'s rendition of (classic
effect, followed by (classic effect), then topped off with a really
breathtaking, completely original (classic effect.)
What a show! I can't wait until next year! Five stars!!!!
sg #1969 Dated 1:02:45 05-08-91 1950 <--> 1974
From: MAX MAVEN
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: ELMSLEY COUNT
You're on the right track in terms of attitude being the key. What is,
I think, most often missed concerning counting operations such as the
Elmsley Count is that the very idea of displaying a small number of
cards by counting them one-by-one is illogical.
Human beings, in general, take in information of this type in a
cluster. For example, when we actively perceive a few coins lying on a
table, we do it by mentally arranging them in numbered patterns -- we
view a set of three coins simply as three; four as four; five is
usually viewed as a three-set and a two-set. It's only when we wish to
consider a larger number (generally above seven) and are concerned
about the individual units that we begin actively counting.
Thus, the most logical way to display four cards is, almost without
exception, to simply spread them.
Unfortunately, this does not allow us to hide a surface, while the
counting procedure does. Therefore, the psychological means by which an
Elmsley (or similar) count is justified is that of conveying through
attitude, timing and body language that the cards are being counted
one-by-one in order to be excrutiatingly fair.
Hence, counting at the fingertips can be made to seem a logical part of
this supposed intent -- as if to preclude any sleight-of-hand during
this effort at deliberate fairness. And that is why I've maintained for
years the general preference for the Pinch Grip.
Msg #1972 Dated 8:44:45 05-08-91 1927 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: BLACK & TELLER
This morning's (Wednesday, May 8, 1991) promo for "Closer Look" does
NOT indicate that today's show includes any magic. We may know more in
a few hours.
Msg #1973 Dated 9:06:52 05-08-91 1900 <--> 1981
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
Gadzooks! I hope I didn't say the wrong thing! I am not sure that
rating guides offer much in themselves unless one is familiar with the
person using the guide. Insofar as reviews and guides are concerned,
I would suggest a panel of multiple (at least 3) reviewers and taking
an average of the ratings from the three of them. The resulting
ratings might be more reflective of the actual situation and not so
indicative of one person's opinion.
(but hey...frog...I was just trying to kid you a little!)
Msg #1974 Dated 9:11:57 05-08-91 1903 <--> 1975
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: ELMSLEY COUNT
There is no question that you should always make the "comfort" of using
a move one of the factors in it's selection. The fact that you like
the "fingertip version" of the count probably results in your doing the
count better using that version. I just don't feel one would normally
hold the cards that way if counting four cards. During the "twisting"
routine there is a logical reason for the cards to be in that position.
By all means stay with what you like...a helluva lot of people have
been fooled with the finger tip method of the count.
Msg #1975 Dated 9:15:24 05-08-91 1917 <--> 1990
From: BILL WELLS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: ELMSLEY COUNT
After years of arguing with the late Larry West that the fingertip
method wasn't that natural and watching him teach the fingertip method
to hordes of magicians, I ain't about to continue the argument with
you. What is natural of course has a lot to do with what the person
feels is natural and I would certainly admit that I have seen the
fingertip version done in a very naturaly manner. However, I have also
seen the "grip" version done very well and very poorly. I knew there
was a definite connection between the pinch grip and the twist...thanks
for turning me around.
Msg #1976 Dated 9:20:59 05-08-91 1905 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ???
You are certainly welcome any help on your conclave that I am willing
to provide...I guess all your hotel negotiations are finished or I
could make some suggestions there. I will send you another message re
Spring Hill and related events since I had already typed it up. I will
mark the 27th for Spring Hill. Thanks.
Msg #1980 Dated 9:29:16 05-08-91 -> 2006
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VISIT
I understand that not only are we gonna be blessed by a
preconvention visit from Count Zamora but that the Frog is gonna be
on the same plane!! Wunderful!! We need to decide on a day to go to
Middleburg so I can contact Nick and get us invited. They may have
other preconvention visitors out there and I don't want us to get
crowded out in the rush. Please let me know if you need help meeting
people at thY
₯ΙΑ½ΙΡor whatever. You can't put too many city
slickers in the back of a pick 'em up truck without getting the truck
messed up and I got a van so let me know if you need help. Only
trouble is that if we start having too good a time, we may never get
up to Baltimore for the convention.
Msg #1981 Dated 9:58:10 05-08-91 1912 <--> 1984
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
You make some good points. I wonder how many people will take the time
to answer the questions honestly and completely if it requires more
than a 1-10 rating...ie arn't most people a little lazy with regards to
this? possibly a combination of number rating and a space large enough
to speak if you have something to say. Also I think you need to
understand that not everyone will value the same things in a lecture.
Each person perceives what they think is the most important differently
from the people around them. BTW I also noticed the large applause that
Cyril got during the show...He really held it together when he had a
few problems.
Msg #1982 Dated 10:16:54 05-08-91 1942 <-
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: JERRY BURTON (X)
Re: DAY O MAGIC
Burton,
I like the idea that it supports the effort they have put forward.
I still think that 10 bucks is a little steep. If every one in the
lecture paid 5 they would have done just as well as if half the people
bought it at 10. I also heard in the halls "you buy his notes and I can
get a copy from you later" this does nothing for the magicians
pocket! If the price were lower more people would get the notes just
to have the original with an autograph on them.
Msg #1983 Dated 10:28:34 05-08-91 -> 1986
From: DOUGLAS LARSON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: RDMAGIC
Was I asleep? What is RDMagic? and where is it at? I saw you talking
about it but don't have a clue as to what it is
thanks
Msg #1984 Dated 11:03:42 05-08-91 1973 <--> 2035
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: MAGIC REVIEW
A reasonable rating guide can be developed. It is a matter of
technique and there are "experts" at it. Unfortunately, most of the
ones we ordinarily see are poorly put together. If this is something
MAGIC! members really want, then we first need to determine what
information it is important to collect. After that, a format can be
determined.
As to kidding me, Bill, thanks, no. I have one 2-1/2 year old now and
the C-section was murder! 'Course you know I'm not being serious,
Frogs don't do it that way.
Msg #1986 Dated 11:12:09 05-08-91 1983 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DOUGLAS LARSON (X)
Re: RDMAGIC
RDMAGIC is a super new program for IBM's and compatibles that Jerry
Burton is working on. With it you can take one of the MAGIC! messages
files (which are stored in numeric order) and review it in topic order!
RDMAGIC is likely to become a piece of an advanced MAGIC!
communications program that we are trying - long range - to construct.
Jerry is releasing test versions and doing updates to it pretty much on
a daily basis - giving people a chance to download it and comment on
it. It is always uploaded as a ZIP file and always as RDMAGIC.ZIP.
Msg #1988 Dated 11:31:15 05-08-91 -> 1989
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: PENN AND TABMAN CANCELLED
Crapola, I was on the set and five minits before the
satellite feed from Washington to New York the satellite went
down. I was set to get yelled at by Penn while Teller was trying
to escape from a bucket of water.
NBC sent a limo down to tabman hall early this morning and I
languished in the "green room" waiting while they were taping
Blackstone's part of the show. I had painted my left index finger
nail black and moussed my hair back in a Penn slick wearing
traditional New York black.
They offered to buy me lunch (they haven't seen my bill) and
sent me off with Ray the limo driver, but I chose to skeedadle
back to the country where the tabman tables await.
Also, I had wired myself with a micro recorder so I could
(hopefully) get the unedited audio version for laughs.
Thanks to David Lichtman and Wayne Powers who stayed up with
me the past two nights on confrence calls helping me do my
homework.
Fellows, I tried.
Msg #1989 Dated 11:41:57 05-08-91 1988 <--> 1993
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PENN AND TABMAN CANCELLED
Well, I guess that clears up one recent mystery! Through the efforts
of one of our SUPER members (who shall remain anonymous unless they
wish to reveal themself [admittedly an odd construction, but certainly
free of gender reference]) NBC contacted MAGIC! concerning this
project. After learning of their requirements, we recommended a couple
of people and Tabman got the nod.
I'm told that the show, "Closer Look" with Blackstone and Penn and
Teller, but without the Tabman, IS scheduled to air on Thursday or
Friday of this week.
Msg #1990 Dated 11:51:45 05-08-91 1969 <--> 2003
From: EVAN KATZ
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: ELMSLEY COUNT
Thanks for your thoughts.
Msg #1993 Dated 14:16:22 05-08-91 1988 <--> 1994
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PENN AND TABMAN CANCELLED
Penn got off easy, Tab...I wouldn't be surprised if they got wind of
what was in store for 'em and ol' Teller snipped the sattelite cable!!!
Msg #1994 Dated 15:31:08 05-08-91 1993 <--> 1996
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: PENN AND TABMAN CANCELLED
Maybe, but I think it was feeds were busy with Gen Schwarzkopv's
address to Congress today. Oh well. Feel let down, but can't take that
stuff personally as you know. One reason I chose to forsake the
limelight and do my thing behind the scenes for others. Being "up
front" is awful hard on the ego sometimes (though it has its' rewards).
I was ready for him though thanks to all the late night help I got from
my friends. Thanks.
Msg #1996 Dated 15:58:41 05-08-91 1993 <--> 1997
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PENN AND TABMAN CANCELLED
Clear and simple, Tabman. It was a case of TOO MUCH MOJO... You were
supposed to fry Penn's end of the link.
Msg #1997 Dated 16:45:42 05-08-91 1996 <--> 1998
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: PENN AND TABMAN CANCELLED
It was weird. I said a little prayer just before I went out and poof.
Msg #1998 Dated 17:17:30 05-08-91 1997 <--> 1999
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PENN AND TABMAN CANCELLED
NBC Washington probably just wasn't ready to _dish_ out Crabb.
Msg #1999 Dated 18:12:40 05-08-91 1998 <--> 2016
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: PENN AND TABMAN CANCELLED
Sorta bummed me out, but I'll get over it.
--- END OF MAGIC-24 ---