MAGIC! - 37
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 #8000 Dated 0:02:45 07-03-91 7976 <--> 8002
From: EVAN KATZ
To: MICHAEL OVERLY (X)
Re: LONG BEACH MAGIC STORE
A worthy emporium, this?
Msg #8002 Dated 8:57:13 07-03-91 8000 <-
From: MICHAEL OVERLY
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: LONG BEACH MAGIC STORE
Very mediocre. Most everything is sold at a premium. Reasonable
selection of books. What can I say, it's the closest shop for me.
Msg #8003 Dated 12:33:03 07-03-91
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: ALL
Re: POP-OUT MOVE
MAGIC!-NL Wed 03 Jul 91 20:31
Heinz posted the following msg:
The pop-out move is described in the book "Cardfinesse" by
Racherbaumer and in one of the last issues of Epiloque by K. Fulves
in which also is stated that the basics are from Eddy Taytelbaum
---
* Origin: MAGIC!-NL, Home of the wizards, +31-23-388725 (2:0/0)
---
---
Msg #8004 Dated 12:36:28 07-03-91 7939 <--> 8019
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MORE PCAM
I just got back to Kraborgue and am checking in via MAGIC! to say
hello and thanks for everything. We'll be watching for you to show
up in Arnaud's reports from FISM. Have a great trip, and keep yer
head down.
Msg #8006 Dated 12:36:42 07-03-91 7951 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: HARRISON CARROLL
Re: MAIL
I caught some news on the Forks from a coupla guys at IBM. I heard
from Ray and he said you guys almost came down. Woulda been fun
with you guys there. A number of the Forks crowd hanging around the
bar late at night. Saw Keith Walker and Randy DiMarco from CEMK as
well. Tried some "Baltimore Wings", but nothing like Buffalo.
Msg #8008 Dated 12:36:55 07-03-91 7967 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: ?
It was an excellent convention from my vantage point and one you
would have enjoyed. The hotel, staff, etc was excellent and every-
thing was convenient. Good lecturers with Larry Becker, Darwin Ortiz,
Mike Close and others. Major dealer area with stuff from old letters
from Sphinx's A. Wilson to disposable thumb tips. Burton the Bizarre
was there but had to leave early to catch a train. Burton is a great
guy to hang out with and we missed him after he left. David Luther
and Gary Plants were prominent and helped David Lichtman out at his
lectures along with Burton. Pete, Bill Wells and Jim Nagel were
everywhere at the same time and did a great job of running the
event along with the rest of the convention committee.
Msg #8009 Dated 14:49:22 07-03-91
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: IBM?
IBM NOTES... Up in Lichtman's room nearly all night viewing a
video of the "COMEDY CLUB" show... Why, since I have seen every
performance of it? Well, David Williamson (one of the lads on the
Msg #8011 Dated 15:30:16 07-03-91 7978 <--> 8061
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM - DAY 3
I saw your mind REALLY MELT last evening... But I don't know
where the draino is to clean your mind.
Msg #8012 Dated 15:30:21 07-03-91 7987 <--> 8052
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: REGARDS
I don't want to be nasty Maven-san, you don't WAKARI MASU KA!!!!
I know, don't in line 1 is redundant! But I guess I should also
say O GENKI DESU KA.
Msg #8013 Dated 15:30:28 07-03-91 7990 <--> 8053
From: PETE BIRO
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: SAM CONVENTION
Sorry you had to settle for the "other" convention. But it will be
real easy on all youse guys, getting lots of sleep... durin gthe
oooops, during the shows and lectures! Jus' kiddin
'arrrrggghhhhhh?????
Msg #8014 Dated 15:30:35 07-03-91 7993 <--> 8022
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
I think the Magic Hands Fachcongress in Germany would be the ONE
AND ONLY if you can do ONE AND ONLY ONE... Tell Manfred I sent you.
Msg #8015 Dated 15:30:40 07-03-91 7994 <--> 8016
From: PETE BIRO
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
Call Gregg Bordner (call information in Colon MI and ask for
Abbott's -- if they have the address -- and they will set you up
with LOCAL housing. Last time I was there I shared a pair of rooms
with Mike Caldwell and Pat Page. Mike weighed 345 lbs., Page about
155 and when Pat sat on the edge of the bed the bed frame collapsed.
Mike jumped up and said, "YOU KNOW WHO THEY WILL BLAME!!" But I
saved the day, grabbing about 40 copies of National Geographic off
the shelf and piled under the bed. I'm sure the landlord never
missed them!
Msg #8016 Dated 15:30:52 07-03-91 7995 <--> 8038
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
Even if you wanted to go, how would you find the address.
Interestingly there was a message tacked on the bb here at IBM,
saying, "Anyone needing Abbott's address, log onto MAGIC!"
Msg #8017 Dated 15:30:58 07-03-91 7997 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID WILLIAMSON (X)
Re: IBM CONVENTION
David me Bucko! Nice to see you online...MANYMANYTHANKS for the
great job here at Balimor....
Msg #8018 Dated 15:31:04 07-03-91 7999 <--> 8027
From: PETE BIRO
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: POP-OUT MOVE
Hold cards in each hand. (1/2 and 1/2) oh, forget it, I can't
remember one part.... arrrrgggghhhh
Msg #8019 Dated 15:31:09 07-03-91 8004 <--> 8059
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MORE PCAM
El Maestro of the Monikers... where the hey is Kraborgue. I have
been having difficulty getting online and I am totally out of
control. Near death to be exact.... arrrrgggghhhhh is putting it
mildly. Adios CRABMANNNNN
Msg #8020 Dated 15:31:45 07-03-91
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: I DON'T REMEMBER
IBM NOTES... Up in Lichtman's room nearly all night viewing a
video of the "COMEDY CLUB" show... Why, since I have seen every
performance of it? Well, David Williamson (one of the lads on the
Msg #8022 Dated 15:36:46 07-03-91 8014 <--> 8024
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
The Magic Hands Fachcongress!? Wuzzat?? I never know if you are
kidding or not but assuming you are serious, why would you recommned it
over the others? Wouldn't most if not all of it be in German?
I no habla Deutch! I should have narrowed my practical choices down to
stateside. If I had as much money as I have a love for magic I would
be winging my way to the next FISM.
Msg #8023 Dated 15:57:24 07-03-91 -> 8031
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: IBM COMEDY CLUB
July 3, 199
IBM NOTES... Up in Lichtman's room nearly all night viewing a
video of the "COMEDY CLUB" show... Why, since I have seen every
performance of it? Well, David Williamson (one of the lads on the
show)
and Mike Close, working his close up miracles at the same time each
day
wanted to see it. And so did I!
The shows were taped by a guy in green pants, sometimes called
the FROG.
One with the show. MCd by Ron London, who was brilliant enuf to
tiptoe
quietly for brief spells between acts "just to get them
on" showed his droll sense of humor in contrast to the raving
lunatics that followed!
The foist, er First... was Bob Sheets. His 10-Card Poker Deal had the
crowd in stitches as he continually beat his opponent,
despite letting the poor guy literally call the DEAL. A 10-minute
foray
with the BRA trick must have had 300 laughs in it. A
completely DIFFERENT "handling" (if I can use that word!!) He
closed his set with the classic card stab of his creation that
leaves even the experts baffled as they are doubled over
with laughter.
Dave Williamson said, "A year ago when Biro booked me he
said he wanted me to do stand up, having done close up at St.
Louis. I told him I didn't have a stand up act. He said, 'you
have a year to get on ready' -- last night I had 24 hours. And
tonight now that you've seen it... I still don't have an act. I'm
sorry... I'm really sorry... I'm really, really sorry..." as he
walked
of.
So then, what did he do. God I don't know. I've seen him
both shows so far, watched the video and... I just don't know
what he does.... But the audience, for some reason roared with
laughter all during his 20-minute set. I do recall him CUTTING
THE HAIR of a volunteer kid, removing the back of his scalp, then
removing a brain to find a vanished silk. When he was done he
picked the kid, covered with the white barber cloth, chair and
all and carried the lot out into the audience.
His OREO schtick "did I get the job" can't be described in
words.
And oh, yah... he had 3 kids up for a spaghetti eating
contst which I can't remember anything about because I tears in my
eyes
laughing all the way thru. Even John Carney got a laugh during
David's
act when he grabbed him in the audience...
Yarrgghh in the funniest sense.
Oh yah, he had a girl sign the Jockey Shorts (while still on two
guys) and caused them to VISIBLY transpose. Their shorts
literally floating across the stage. (You close your eyes and
visualise this on your own... and like Copperfield's Card on
Train Window work out your own method). HARRRRRR.
If you think Williamson's act can't be describe SYLVESTER
THE JESTER defies description. He is like an animated cartoon
come alive off the screen. Sure he pulls a bugger out of his nose and
tries to give it to someone in the audience. Yep, he really takes a
staple gun and staples his teeth together in a a bit
doing a dentist applying braces. Not only does steam blow out of his
ears, but when he slows down a pair of jumper cables short
out and sparks fly off his ears (where the cables are attached) about
a
foot in each direction. Yep he swallows a couple of dozen tomatoes.
And
he does produce a 24 lb ANVIL from his SMALL HAT. No covering no way
to
describe the handling.
The blow off is his Public Service Message. "This is my
brain, this is drugs" as he holds a HUGE frying pan and zings the
audience when he smashes the frying pan into his face. The noise is
incredible and on the final blow he.... NO IT IS TOO GOOD... JUST
MAKE
SURE YOU SEE HIM FOR YOURSELF.
As Bob Sheets said, "I have never seen an audience JUST SIT THERE
HOLDING THEIR BREATH... THEY DON'T KNOW IF HE IS REAL, OR WHAT, IF HE
IS NUTS OR WHAT. And when done are relieved he didn't hurt them!
An unusual show to say the least. A KILLER show to say the
most!
Msg #8024 Dated 16:00:20 07-03-91 8022 <--> 8028
From: PETE BIRO
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
It is in German... but I figger you might want to try something diff
erent. In my fumble opinion you can't beat an IBM convention. No. 2 is
the Seminar in Las Vegas. I'm going back o my nap.
Msg #8025 Dated 16:01:45 07-03-91 -> 8029
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: YEP
We finally got this machine working (don't know who is paying the fone
bill) tanks to el froggie... When I get to la will hit you again.
Msg #8027 Dated 19:07:10 07-03-91 7999 <--> 8030
From: DAVID WILLIAMSON
To: JIM SISTI (X)
Re: POP-OUT MOVE
Check Daryl's Ambitious Card Omnibus or Fortons Lecture Notes for
a description.
Msg #8028 Dated 20:47:59 07-03-91 8024 <--> 8035
From: TABBY CRABB
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
I didn't get much of a chance to be a participant at IBM, but it
had much to offer and everyone I spoke with seemed to have an excl
time. I really enjoy Desert Magic Seminar and hope to make it again
next year. Either of these BIG events, I think you'd really enjoy
since they have "something for everyone." There are some smaller
events too which are more specific in their content. Close Encounters
of The Magic Kind in Rochester, NY (Nov) has a lot going for it, but
it focuses in on close-up only as does FFFF. Since this is the first
year for my Nashville Music City Conclave (any MAGIC! member would be
welcome) there isn't a history to draw from, however early response
indicates that it too will be good.
Msg #8029 Dated 20:48:11 07-03-91 8025 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO
Re: YEP
OK, ya'll have a good one. Get some sleep (I took a six hour nap when
I got home) and we'll check with Arnaud looking for you at FISM.
Msg #8030 Dated 20:48:16 07-03-91 8027 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID WILLIAMSON
Re: POP-OUT MOVE
Dave,
How bout giving me the address off that jazz tape I laid on ya in
Baltimore. Really enjoyed working with you at the convention. I
heard you'll be doing illusions next year so you won't be with us
in the Comedy Club, but am already looking 4ward to what you come up
with for the theatre show. The Spirit Underwear was a riot. Catch
you on the flip-flop.....
Msg #8031 Dated 20:48:25 07-03-91 8023 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: IBM COMEDY CLUB
Pete pretty much summed it up for the Comedy Club and there isn't
much I can add. The first day the show ran smoothly, but the second
day things started coming unglued. When BOB SHEETS Telex wireless
mic decided to short circuit about half way through his very con-
sistant set, BOB just banged on his chest and said, "What th'.."
and grabbed the MC's stand mic and kept the laffs rolling. He is off
to Europe to busk for a month and then to Nova Scotia for a festival.
DAVE WILLIAMSON's act has been described by Pete and after doing
sound, lights, etc for all performances I just about have everything
memorized. Second day, Dave's cassette with his Spirit Underwear
music got eaten by the tape deck (which is why I laid my fave tape
on him). The audience thought it was part of the show and never
stopped laffing. SYLVESTER THE JESTER (David Sylvester) does some
great magic (as described) and if you believe him to be a two
dimensional cartoon character really kills. Pete is right about
the audience holding their breath. You must see this performer if
you get a chance. I think he works So. Cal. somewhere and is orig
from Ohio.
.
All the performers - BOB SHEETS, DAVE WILLIAMSON, and SYLVESTER THE
JESTER - are all easy to work with and all professional in their
attitudes and performances. It was a pleasure working with these
gentlemen.
Msg #8032 Dated 22:18:53 07-03-91 7918 <-
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DANTE LARSEN
Re: WATSON
Checking the castle might be a little difficult. I'm up here in Biro
country, namely Walnut Creek in NORTHERN CALIFORNIA. Oh well, I know
someone I can ask at my local SAM meeting. Thanks for the info, though.
They're great performers and I hope to see more of their magic in the
future.
Msg #8034 Dated 22:57:38 07-03-91 -> 8040
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: ALL
Re: SAM DAY 1
Welcome to Las Vegas for the S.A.M. 63rd Annual Convention.
Registration opened 5:00 last night and the place was packed for
about an hour, then everyone vanished into the glitter and 113
degree heat of Las Vegas. Each registrant received an event book,
a B/W poster highlighting 30 of the featured performers, and a
Magic Hands color poster of the Barans.
The only thing I'm not too fond of is that they have 4 different
color badges allowing conventioneers limited access only to
certain competition rooms and lecture time slots. I know that
with this many people, not everyone can fit in one room at once,
but still....
I'm going to have to rely on other MAGIC! friends to fill in the
gaps in the competition lineup as it happens as they don't have
any listing of competitors.
Today's activities include:
10:30 AM to Noon David Goodsell lecture
1:30 AM to 3:30 PM "Las Vegas Review"
Sophisticated Sorcery
Starring the BARANS
Featuring the juggling artistry of
ANTHONY GATTO (this is the young man that
has been in Melinda's show for several
years with his rapid fire routine with at
least 7 clubs.(It's hard to count when
they move that fast!)
and the Comedy of STAN ALLEN
3:30 PM to 11:00 PM Dealers room opens for the first time
4:00 PM found us at the GEORGE JOHNSTONE lecture with a long
talk about working with Harry Blackstone
followed by several comedy and magic bits
from his and his wife's days on the road.
7:30 PM to 9:00 PM Close-up Contest in four different rooms
Good News! The different color badges are
due to limited room space, so the Close-up
competitors will travel through each room
repeating their routines for all to see!
This seems to be a good way to handle a
walk around or restaurant style act as it
forces repetition with different audiences.
9:00 PM to 10:00 PM Dealers Demo show
10:00 PM to 11:00 PM Magic Collectors Meeting
"Sophisticated Sorcery"
This was a very nice production show with four dancers, lavish
costumes, and the most large illusions I've ever seen in a single
show. One comment though, the lighting seemed to be a bit dim
considering they were wearing mostly black. Combining this with
fog and floor spotlights shining in the spectator's eyes made
several routines nearly invisible. They have a nice Disembodied
Princess routine that Jennifer (Baran) literally vanished into
due to the lights and costume. It was very difficult to see. for
all I know, she left the box completely, as her shackled legs
were lost in the fog.
Their finale was Metamorphosis with a twist. The box was
transparent! They used no cover whatsoever. All we saw was
Jennifer tied up in a red bag, inside the box. Jody climbed on
top, lifted a drape (without covering any of the box) and there
was Jennifer! The still visible bag had not even moved. Jody was
found inside the bag (of course).
Stan Allen performed his "Killer" rabbit routine, and acted as MC
for the show.
The hottest dealer item seemed to be Mike Ammar's new book. It
was seen on nearly every Dealer's table. Conspicuous by their
absence were Mike Weber's "Lifesavers" and David Harkey's "Simply
Harkey". It seems more than one person has had reservations about
the disclaimer, and not mentioning it in dealer ads may hurt more
than he realises. David's decision to market his book himself has
some wholesalers wondering. They agree that the people that
normally would order from him will still do so, but that hardly
makes up for the lack of visibility on dealer's shelves. This
will be a limited item only due to it's lack of distribution.
Anyone looking for it at your favorite dealers will have a long
wait.
As you can see, they're cramming a lot of stuff into this
Convention and with around 950 Magic conventioneers on the loose,
it promises to be a LONG weekend for all.
David (the other one)
Msg #8035 Dated 23:14:47 07-03-91 8024 <--> 8036
From: STAN LAKE
To: PETE BIRO
Re: CONVENTIONS
From informal surveys I have done it sounds like the IBM is indeed the
one convention to go to if I am only able to make it to one. Do you
know yet the when and where?
Msg #8036 Dated 23:17:03 07-03-91 8028 <--> 8041
From: STAN LAKE
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Was the IBM a "working" convention for you where you didn't have much
time to see the acts? It sounds like the Music City conclave will be
even more of a working convention for you but it should be a lot of fun
with the line up you have.
Msg #8038 Dated 23:44:13 07-03-91 8016 <--> 8154
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: PETE BIRO
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
Maybe we should have a high-tech, modem seance on here and ask Percy
Abbott's spirit the usual Iggy emcee patter question, "Hi, where ya
from?"
We've missed your usual lunacy on here lately, Senor Biro...welcome
back!
'W.
Msg #8040 Dated 7:34:02 07-04-91 8034 <--> 8062
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Hi David,
Just in from IBM myself and wish I coulda made it to Vegas to
join up with the SAMers for this one. Thank you taking time to put
the report up. I felt like I was there with you for a few minits.
Msg #8041 Dated 7:34:09 07-04-91 8036 <--> 8045
From: TABBY CRABB
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Hi Stan,
Yes, I was (lifted from the program) Hotel Shows Director and
spent much of my time in the Baltimore Ballroom where we had set up
an 18 x 24 foot stage with curtains, wings, traveler, etc, sound and
lights. The room sat 440 people and was full for most shows. I enjoy
working so it's not a problem. IBM next year is June 30 - July 5 in
Salt Lake City @ the Marriott Hotel. See you there?
Msg #8045 Dated 12:05:23 07-04-91 8041 <--> 8056
From: STAN LAKE
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
I will know for sure if I can make it to the next IBM convention by
this November-December when all of my co-workers and I make out our
vacation schedules. It goes by seniority and the 4th of July week is
pretty popular so I'll just have to wait and see. I may end up going
to a different convention after all which falls during a less popular
vacation week. Wherever I get to go I'm sure it will be great!
Msg #8046 Dated 12:09:08 07-04-91 -> 8064
From: STAN LAKE
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CASTLE RENDEZVOUS
It was great being able to see you last night. You attracted quite an
enthusiastic crowd performing down in the Hat and Hare room! We could
have passed a plate for tips!
We're looking forward to going to Dr. Hogly Wogly's and getting all
sloppy faced eating ribs. Name the time and date and we'll make it.
Thanks again for the fun evening and enjoy the rest of your vacation!
Msg #8052 Dated 22:57:36 07-04-91 7987 <--> 8068
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: REGARDS
Todah Rabah, Maven-san. You are quite correct, I did not have my
Japanese spell-checker with me in Baltimore. And, of course, most
Japanese spell-checkers are notoriously problematical at
transliteration anyway.
I might mention, in my defense, however, that a great many of my
Japanese friends live in Fukoka and speak Southern Japanese - you know,
"Arigato Gozaimasu, y'all."
Msg #8053 Dated 23:02:40 07-04-91 7990 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: SAM CONVENTION
We're looking forward to some great SAM reports from you and others.
Sorry I was not able to attend.
Msg #8054 Dated 23:03:24 07-04-91 7991 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MARVIN STERN
Re: GONE
Hope you had a wonderful trip, Marvin. Look forward to your report of
any magical events you attended.
Msg #8055 Dated 23:04:38 07-04-91 7992 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: BERG'S MAGIC STUDIO
Just returned to L.A. - interesting - all the things I would have
predicted to have fallen didn't. And things I never would have noticed
did fall. Guess that messes up my plans for a prediction act.
Msg #8056 Dated 23:07:54 07-04-91 7993 <--> 8057
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Looks like the thread has pretty much taken a direction. IBM was
great! And will certainly be great next year. It is the biggest
stateside convention - spectacular shows, lots of lectures and
sessions, lots of dealers, etc.
Music City Conclave, as Tab points out, is new but very promising.
And I always enjoy the Desert Magic Seminar - lots of great stuff
packed into a smaller setting. Less people in attendance, but very
good shows, lots of intimate stuff.
Hope that helps.
Msg #8057 Dated 23:10:45 07-04-91 8022 <--> 8072
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
He isn't kidding - the Magic Hands Fachcongress is supposed to be
great! But, yah, it is in Germany and in German. It is likely that
the next FISM, in 1994, will be in Tokyo.
Msg #8059 Dated 23:17:36 07-04-91 8004 <--> 8073
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MORE PCAM
Have just returned to Lost Angeles after the airline rerouted me via
Newark. I thought Craborgue was spelled with a C.
Haven't really returned to earth yet, but still think that you and PETE
BIRO did killer work. BIRO is incredible.
Nathan sends regards.
Msg #8061 Dated 23:26:04 07-04-91 8011 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO
Re: IBM - DAY 3
Yep - you really did see it melt up in the suite - I was down to doing
balloons. Got home and hope to have the Draino working soon. By the
way, it is good we didn't try to meet at LAX - I got rerouted by about
three hours - Newark is so nice...
Msg #8062 Dated 23:33:30 07-04-91 8034 <--> 8123
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Thanks for the first day SAM report, David! Great to finish one
convention, log on to MAGIC! and get right into the next one! Keep 'em
coming!
Msg #8064 Dated 23:37:53 07-04-91 8046 <--> 8070
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CASTLE RENDEZVOUS
A gathering at Dr. Hoggly Wogly's? Gee, sure hope I get invited to
that!
Msg #8067 Dated 23:43:46 07-04-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: REGISTRATION
TO: All who have registered over the past couple of days
I have just returned from Baltimore and will be catching up with
registrations over the next 48 hours or so. Looks like we have lots of
new members.
If you are someone who called in but did NOT leave a registration
Comment, remember that you CANNOT get access to any special sections of
the system without leaving such a comment. The comment must include
your address, phone number, and a brief resume of your qualifications
for the section you desire access to.
To leave a comment from the Main Menu:
o Type C for Comment and press the ENTER key.
o Type Y for Yes and press the ENTER key.
o Enter your comment - include your address, phone number and
brief resume.
o End your comment by pressing the ENTER key TWICE.
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Notification of your status will be by message HERE, NOT by mail or
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Msg #8068 Dated 0:10:20 07-05-91 8052 <--> 8078
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: REGARDS
Yes, except it's spelled Fukuoka. Please stop forcing me to correct
you on this.
Msg #8069 Dated 0:27:24 07-05-91
From: MIKE KING
To: ALL
Re: CHOC. SOLDIER ILLUSION
Could anybody give me information about the Choclate Soilder Illusion.
I am trying to do some research on the effect. Any help or info about
bos, magazine articles, etc. would help. Thanks. MIKE.
Msg #8070 Dated 0:42:42 07-05-91 8064 <--> 8079
From: RICHARD HART
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CASTLE RENDEZVOUS
Of course you'll be invited. In fact, there's a rumor abounding that
the next unofficial Magic! close-up convention will be held there.
I've got dibs on the moist-towelette concession! Wanna see Biro do his
famous torn-n-restored rib routine...
Msg #8071 Dated 0:46:20 07-05-91 -> 8076
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: ALL
Re: SAM DAY 2
After a long day yesterday and at least four hours of sleep, Day
two is under way.
9:00 AM finds us at the Stage Contest.
Fantasio would have been proud (or at least his banker was happy)
Cards, coins, canes, candles, silks, and BIRDS were everywhere!
About 18 acts, and some delays between acts made it run an hour
over, almost overlapping the Stage show.
Alternate activity for the day was a Magical mystery tour of
London with John Wade.
11:00 AM to 12:00 NOON was an Invisible Lodge Meeting (?)
1:30 PM to 3:30 PM "Magical Fireworks"
MARTIN COTTETT (one-half of Tempest and
Cottett) very stylish manipulation with
rings and things set to music.
GEORGE JOHNSTONE did his comedy magic
that has kept out of the big time for
so many years.
DALE SALWAK with classic manipulation
and Miser's Dream
KEVIN JAMES and Antonio drew applause
BEFORE each effect with Kevin's
routines with rose, severed hand, and
Antonio upstaging him every chance he
got.
JOHN WADE MC'd the show, poking a few
jabs at some unknowns such as Seabrooke
and Daniels (whatever happened to him
anyway, he asked)
MELINDA closed the show with a guest
appearance by Rich Little, and her ever
wonderful zombie routine as only she
can do.
4:00 PM to 5:30 PM "The David Berglas Hour"
(David is the President of The Magic
Circle, London)
8:00 PM to 9:30 PM "The Opus Magazine Hour" with JJ and Chris
Power (Red and Blue badges only)
8:00 PM to 9:30 PM "The Magic of Michael Ammar" (Green and
Yellow badges only)
10:00 PM to 11:30 PM "Presenting Tricks or Creating Magic?"
by Eugene Burger
"Michael Weber Update"
His book, Lifesavers, showed up today on a few dealer's tables
and Michael was behind the counter for a time. Upon reading his
disclaimer, the negative one appears only on his lecture notes.
His book was a bit more positive giving "Rights to perform any or
all effects, with or without accompanying routines, anytime,
anywhere in the known Universe, in an impromptu setting.
This last line seems to be the kicker. As was already discussed,
what is impromptu? Is it for amateurs only to amuse their
friends? Or is for professionals in an impromptu setting such as
a cocktail party or some other location where they get paid?
Maybe we'll never know.
Talk about saving the best for last!! Michael Ammar and Eugene
Burger closed the day with two of the best lecture(r)s of the
convention back to back!!
Michael showed some new stuff not seen before in his lecture, in
addition to his standard(!) routines.
Eugene had wome wonderful words regarding the difference between
"tricks" and "magic". Tricks happen to props, objects and such
and have no real involvement, whereas "magic" happens in the
spectator's "mind". "Twisting the Aces" is merely those silly
aces and what they do, but "Cutting to the Aces" is every card
player's Dream! Which one do you think is the Real Magic?
Eugene announced that he will be in the LA area for a lecture
July 9th. I strongly recommend anyone that can to attend. I'll
try to find out details on locations tomorrow.
Once my brain cools down, I'll try to get some rest and get ready
for tomorrow.
David (the other one)
Msg #8072 Dated 5:28:50 07-05-91 8056 <--> 8089
From: TABBY CRABB
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
If you can't get the time off to go to IBM or SAM which happens I
believe at the same time, then come to Desert Magic in March 1992.
DM is a class event all the way with much the same flavour of the
BIG events but with only around 700 people in attendance. If you're
into seeing all the dealers though, IBM hasem.
Msg #8073 Dated 5:28:57 07-05-91 8059 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MORE PCAM
Thanks. Glad you got home OK and had a chance to smell Newark on your
way home. I missed you guys after it was all over and look 4ward 2
the next time.
Msg #8076 Dated 5:29:14 07-05-91 8071 <--> 8080
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 2
Sounds good, David. Looking 4ward to tomorrows report.
Msg #8077 Dated 8:12:07 07-05-91
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: ALL
Re: BUTTONS.....
MAGIC!-NL Fri 05 Jul 91 17:06
Arnaud Van.Rietschoten posted the following msg:
Please let me give you, FISM visitors, some tips on how to recognize
a Dutch BBS'er walking in wild in Lausanne.
Besides wooden shoes, and lots of tulips the Dutch BBS'ers wear a
MAGIC!-NL BBS button. Hope you wear yours so we can easily get in
contact and have some drinks to celebrate the world of BBS'es.
See you in Suisse.
Arnaud
---
* Origin: MAGIC!-NL, Home of the wizards, +31-23-388725 (2:0/0)
---
Msg #8078 Dated 8:24:54 07-05-91 8068 <--> 8096
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: REGARDS
Gads! The two-hundred and THIRD force!
Msg #8079 Dated 8:31:29 07-05-91 8070 <--> 8097
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RICHARD HART (X)
Re: CASTLE RENDEZVOUS
Only problem is that Hogly Wogly is usually so crowded. I too want to
see that torn-n-restored rib routine.
Msg #8080 Dated 8:35:14 07-05-91 8071 <--> 8098
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 2
Sounds like everyone is having fun - Arrgh! Some GREAT lectures and
shows there. If you see Melinda again, please give her all our
regards. And please do try to find out more about the July 9 Burger
lecture. Great reports, David - please keep 'em coming!
Msg #8083 Dated 9:00:29 07-05-91 -> 8084
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: LEFT OVERS
During my free time at the IBM Conv. I tried to locate
somebody who could give me some additional work on the Spooky Key
effect. Most people seem to regard this effect as easy and
insignificant until I place the key in their hand and they give
it a try.
I've been working for half a year on reducing the rate of
acceleration of the "fall". I have slowed it within tolerable
bounds, but still cannot match the slow rise without noticable
movement of the hand.
Since I don't want to use threads, rubber cement, or wax on
the key, I've been trying to get in touch mentally with the
muscles in the palm of my hand much in the same way that Mike
O'Dowd unconsciously controlls the muscles in his fingers and
have also (or is it my imagination, or is imagination the KEY)
made a small breakthrough here.
.
Some observations from backstage at the talent contest may
or may not be in order, but will do it anyway.
If you are an inexperienced stage performer, try to reherse
with some lights in your eyes so that won't get in your way when
you actually work a big show using spotlights, etc.
Do not change your act, lighting cues, etc at the last minit
for obvious reasons. Stick to your norm unless you are very
experienced at winging it.
Don't do a bird act according to Marvyn Roy if you intend to
be a professional (someone who works enough to make money).
Do not rely on anyone but yourself to get it right unless
you can find someone really competent and trustworthy.
Do have an extra copy of your music cassette and be sure to
pick it up right after the show or contest. Carry a walkman so
you can set the cue on the tape properly before giving it to the
stage manager or show director.
Avoid talking to the stage manager about your act while he
or she is directing the cues for an act already on stage. This
includes sending your parents to do it for you. { This only
happened three times by two acts out of twenty six so most are
cool. The infringements were initiated by two of the top six
finalists. Of the top two winners, half had been pushers, takers,
and general pains. The other half were a Hawiian delight. General
pre contest NERVES were the cause, not the urge to interfere. You
shoulda seen what a maniac I was when I was backstage before a
big music show, so I understand, so.........HAVE FAITH and rock
on. }
.
Some things I learned the hard way, and by the same token I
must progress:
A red gell on one follow spot tends to make red pips on jumbo
cards displayed from stage dissapeare. White light or a straw
jell seems to be the best overall. I did it to Bob Sheets, but he
just laughed that crazy laff and we changed it and he laffed
again. Sheets never misses a beat. A super pro who is off to busk
around Western Europe. I guess pips beat pale.
Remember to tell MC any changes in his routine before he
goes on. Actually I did, but it was the night before and I
shoulda reminded him at show time when he was suited up. These
professionals never let anything bother them and proceed with biz
as usual. When I sent Pete Biro on stage with a mic and stand he
got a good laff all the way around and the pace picked up and the
laff per minit dial went through the roof.
.
I want to thank Pete Biro, Bill Wells, Jim Nagel, Mike
Stratman, Becki Wells, Jerry Schnepp, Ron London, Bob Sheets,
Dave Williamson, David Sylvester (The Jester), David Lichtman,
the light crew (Jerry, Phil & Doug), Donna Schnepp, Media
Controll's Ray & Ken, Baltimore Sound and Lighting, the Talent
Contest Acts, David Luther, Burton The Bizarre, Scotty York,
Howie Schwarzman and everybody else that signed those posters for
being part of an excellent experience. I'm looking forward to
next time, next space.
.
Life's not a cartoon and that's not all folks. Parts of
Maryland are beginning to ban sale of woods taken from the Rain
Forest and it's about #%@ time. Sting.
Msg #8084 Dated 9:47:08 07-05-91 8083 <--> 8091
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: LEFT OVERS
There are really excellent gems of wisdom for beginners in your
message. Thanks for posting it, Tabman. It does make for a much
better show when the parents, etc., don't get in the way and understand
when other people on the team are doing their job. The time to work
with the stage director, lighting, etc. is BEFORE the show, NOT during
someone else's part.
I'd add one "Thank You" to your list - Kevin, the hotel guy who always
said "No problem" when we asked him for tables, chairs, lights, etc.
Msg #8085 Dated 11:52:34 07-05-91 7602 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X)
Re: THANKS
Now that the 63rd IBM Convention is behind me (I must say it was
one of our better ones insofar as the attendees are concerned) I
am slowly returning to the land of the living...
Charlie, you are certainly most welcome for dinner and whatever
during your visit to DeeCee. I greatly enjoyed meeting you and
seeing Tabby. I haven't done an evening of magic in quite awhile
and it was fun. Hope you enjoy the SAM in Vegas.
Msg #8086 Dated 11:53:15 07-05-91 7641 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: MICHAEL AMMAR
Re: PERF. RIGHTS
Michael...
While the I.B.M. as the largest magic organization might
appear to be a logical choice to act as "a registering agent" for
inventors and creators you might want to remember a couple of
points. One being that a system of enforcement with penalties
would likely be necessary for the "registration system" to have
any impact. The strongest penalty the I.B.M. could impose would
be removal or denial of membership. That penalty is unlikely to
have a major impact. Second, two registration systems exist for
inventions and creations - patients and copywrites. An extensive
history of court findings exist to ward off thieves. However,
the burden falls on the holder of the copywrite or patient to
seek enforcement.
Msg #8087 Dated 11:54:02 07-05-91 7657 <--> 8088
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO
Re: PCAM91.957
Pete - regarding arbitration, registration of
inventions/writings, and your remarks in message 7657 that a
political Org (I assume you mean as in I.B.M. and SAM) will have
judges and make judgements based on biased feelings. What
organization do you know of that doesn't have some political
influences? And when do you think a judge (in an organization or
otherwise) has ever made a decision without being biased to some
degree by their own feelings?
Msg #8088 Dated 11:54:36 07-05-91 7700 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO
Re: PCAM91.957
As I mentioned in another message...fraternal organizations such
as the I.B.M. and SAM and even the Castle cannot impose serious
enough penalities. The most serious penalty they can impose is
denial or removal of membership. The inventor or writer must use
patient and copywrite law and judical case history to protect
their creations in court.
Msg #8089 Dated 11:55:09 07-05-91 7993 <--> 8092
From: BILL WELLS
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Stan ...
Recommending the best magic convention to attend is not an
easy thing to do. If you want a bit of everything...dealers,
close up, stage, contests, lectures, and meeting people, then
one of the big ones is best. I will be biased and say that the
I.B.M. would be the best bet for your money. However, if you
really want to do magic and meet good people then one of the
smaller speciality conventions would be better. Probably the
best magic conventions I ever attended were the early FFFF
conventions when only 50 or 60 people attended and Rick
Johnnson's Super Sessions South with only 24 people in
attendance. The DMS is good but it is really a lot of Vegas and
will cost you money. You might want to start with a smaller
regional or local weekend convention and work up to one of the
larger ones.
Msg #8090 Dated 11:55:53 07-05-91 -> 8101
From: BILL WELLS
To: ALL
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
There were miracles at the IBM Baltimore Convention...Biro
showing up with a SUIT and TIE for an evening show!...Giovanni
and Hiawatha showing up at 6 am on the third day for a live TV
spot...Frog's green pants...Sylvester the Jester...Tabman's
absolute unflappability....and how so many humans can function so
long on so little sleep!
Msg #8091 Dated 12:07:24 07-05-91 8083 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: LEFT OVERS
You are certainly most welcome for anything the Wellses did for
ya...but I want to THANK you for becoming a big part of the I.B.M. team
and I am already looking forward to Salt Lake City and our next effort!
Msg #8092 Dated 15:42:42 07-05-91 8057 <--> 8093
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Have they ever or will they ever have a FISM stateside? I don't think
I have much of a chance of learning Japanese between now and 1994 much
less being able to afford a little jaunt like that. How did Max come
to be so conversant in Japanese anyway?
Msg #8093 Dated 15:45:25 07-05-91 8072 <--> 8094
From: STAN LAKE
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
From the way it looks at this point, the Desert Magic Seminar is my
most likely convention site to make. It is the closest for me and
besides- I love to gamble!
Msg #8094 Dated 15:47:54 07-05-91 8089 <--> 8095
From: STAN LAKE
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Other than PCAM which we just recently had, what other regional
conventions are there in the west, specifically California or
there abouts? Thanks for the reply!
Msg #8095 Dated 15:54:16 07-05-91 8092 <--> 8099
From: MAX MAVEN
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
I think it highly unlikely that there will be a FISM held in the United
States. The size of this country is such that it's a virtual guarantee
that an American FISM would draw such a high percentage of American
registrants as to lose its international definition.
How did I "come to be so conversant in Japanese"? Effort, and lots of
it.
Msg #8096 Dated 15:56:39 07-05-91 8078 <--> 8102
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: REGARDS
Sorry, but there already is a 203rd Force, so titled and well
established for several decades, invented by Henry Christ. You'll have
to settle for 204th at best.
Msg #8097 Dated 15:54:56 07-05-91 8064 <--> 8103
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CASTLE RENDEZVOUS
Have you been there too? I haven't but I've heard it is great and I'm
a BIG fan of good barbeque ribs. We'll have to work with heavily
laminated cards or maybe coins or something washable! I'm hoping they
will take reservations but I don't know yet. We'll have to set this up
soon!
Msg #8098 Dated 16:01:33 07-05-91 8071 <--> 8104
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 2
We appreciate you taking the time to post that informative convention
report. I'm hoping to get to Eugene's seminar. I saw him lecture at
the Castle last Sunday and he really brought home some interesting and
valid points. Can you give any more detail on Michael Ammar's spot??
Msg #8099 Dated 16:12:10 07-05-91 8095 <--> 8100
From: STAN LAKE
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
I'm sure it took (and still takes) quite a lot of effort. I remember
watching over your shoulder one evening at the Castle while you were
talking to some Japanese magicians and swapping card effects. I don't
know what you were saying but you seemed to have no problem conversing
with them. Did you pick up the language so as to study or understand
Japanese magicians? It's vital for any American doing business with
the Far East to know Japanese. And at the rate they are buying things,
it may be our second language in the next 50 years!
Msg #8100 Dated 16:28:07 07-05-91 8092 <--> 8107
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
I think that the 1994 Japan FISM, if approved (which seems likely) will
be the first time FISM is outside of Europe. Since it would be in
Tokyo, I suspect that "Dodge Colt" is all the Japanese you would need
to know.
You would have to ask Max how he became so conversant in Japanese. I
just assume that it is one of many languages that he speaks.
Msg #8101 Dated 16:31:58 07-05-91 8090 <--> 8199
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Biro really was a knockout in that suit and tie. Maybe next year he'll
attend the banquet!
My green pants did not seem to start a trend - I might give up and
change to black - can't quite get myself to do it though.
Once again, a BIG THANKS to you for hauling the 286 in - it made all
the MAGIC! difference in the World.
Msg #8102 Dated 16:41:53 07-05-91 8096 <--> 8143
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: REGARDS
Darn! Hmmmm... Maybe I could call it the 205th Force and drive
everyone nuts looking for the 204th. Publish it in Japan, of course.
Msg #8103 Dated 16:43:52 07-05-91 8097 <--> 8106
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CASTLE RENDEZVOUS
I've been to Dr. Hogly Wogly's many, many times. As far as I know,
they will NOT take reservations. We'd have to limit the group to no
more than 8 people. One good point - while waiting, there are tables
outside that we could hold the pre-dinner magic work at. It is a great
place, but difficult (almost impossible) to hold a meeting at.
I did one of my best prediction effects there once, will tell about it
if we meet there.
Msg #8104 Dated 17:42:47 07-05-91 8098 <-
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: SAM DAY 2
More on Ammar to follow tonight. He is repeating his lecture tonight at
10:00 for us that couldn't see him last night.
Msg #8105 Dated 17:43:49 07-05-91 -> 8111
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: ALL
Re: CLASSIC RENDITIONS
You read it here first!
Michael Ammar has just released two new videos.
Classic Renditions Vols. 1 & 3.
Volume 1
The Floating Bill
AND
John Cornelius' Coin That Falls Up
This 52 minute tape details Michael's and John's techniques
taught as never before. All the technically demanding movements
are put together in one segment, which has been specially
designed to make learning easier than ever.Baroque music plays as
Michael and John perform repeatedly, seen from a variety of
camera angles. Michael also includes samples of his elastic and
nonelastic thread with instructions on how to strip it and how to
set it up.
In part two, you will see John Cornelius perform his Coin That
Falls Up for John Davidson, and then he joins Mike in the studio
to reveal the techniques for the first time on video! You'll
learn the Coin That Falls UP, the Coin Through Glass Top Table,
The Coin Through Swinging Glass Door, AND John's beautiful Visual
Retention Coin Pass.
Volume 2
The Invisible Bill Switch
PLUS
John Cornelius'
Borrowed Bill Routine
This 41 minute video details Michael's finesse in handling the
$100 Dollar Bill Switch in full detail. You'll see the techniques
precisely repeated from a variety of camera angles. You will see
Michael performing this on the Will Shriner Show, and also John's
five minute comedy routine at the Magic Castle! This is the one
John closes every professional performance with. Cornelius the
joins Ammar in the studio to reveal how you can use his routine
and your newly acquired technical skills in YOUR professional
performances!
Both of these tapes are so new, Mike had them shipped directly to
S.A.M. where he and I both saw them for the first time, sans
boxes. The boxes arrived today and they look GREAT! When the set
is complete, the box spines depict the Michaelangelo's Creation
from the Sistine Chapel. Volume 2 is coming soon (a few weeks) as
it isn't back from the editor yet. Once you see the artwork,
Michael predicts Vol 2 will be a best seller, especially among
the women! Vol 2 will be on Rubberband Magic and should be
exactly what this reviewer needs to finally figure out his moves.
I've seen him and read his book, and STILL can't quite get it!
More about today's S.A.M. convention tonight.
David (the other one)
Msg #8106 Dated 18:03:09 07-05-91 8103 <--> 8108
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CASTLE RENDEZVOUS
I predict we WILL meet there and you will tell us of your prediction.
(The date is a bit hazy, I'll have to get tuned in a bit better)
Msg #8107 Dated 18:35:02 07-05-91 8093 <--> 8110
From: TABBY CRABB
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Yeah, me too. I paid part of my expenses last time in Vegas. You'll
enjoy Desert Magic. Good people, hotel, etc...
Msg #8108 Dated 18:35:08 07-05-91 8103 <--> 8112
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CASTLE RENDEZVOUS
Dr. Hogly Wogly gives you too much to eat. The iced tea is great
and there are no reservations (about eating there, that is).
Msg #8109 Dated 20:42:51 07-05-91 -> 8114
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: GREETINGS
While sorting through the usual multitude of bills and occasional check
in todays mail, I came upon a letter from Jeff Busby.
He asked me to relay his warmest greetings to you all and explain that
he hasn't logged on recently due to a lack of time...not interest!
'W.
Msg #8110 Dated 21:44:09 07-05-91 8099 <--> 8126
From: MAX MAVEN
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
I'd had a long-standing interest in Japanese culture. Went over to do
a lecture tour in 1981, and decided I wanted to keep coming back, and
that this was unlikely to happen with any frequency if I had to have my
hand held due to inability to communicate on my own. So, I purchased
some textbooks and plunged in.
Msg #8111 Dated 22:40:24 07-05-91 8105 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: CLASSIC RENDITIONS
Thanks for the NEWS, David! Great! I've seen some segments of these
tapes (very prerelease, very hush-hush) and they are TERRIFIC! Rumor
also has it that these tapes will be VERY REASONABLY PRICED.
A MAGIC! scoop, DAVID (the other one!) - THANKS!
Msg #8112 Dated 22:42:22 07-05-91 8106 <--> 8113
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CASTLE RENDEZVOUS
Excellent! Will look forward to an informal MAGIC! meeting at Dr.
Hogly Wogly's Tyler Texas Bar-B-Que.
Msg #8113 Dated 22:43:16 07-05-91 8108 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CASTLE RENDEZVOUS
Yes, seems to me that I remember that you flew some back to Ckrayborg
after you were there (Hogly Wogly's).
Msg #8114 Dated 22:45:34 07-05-91 8109 <--> 8116
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: GREETINGS
Thanks for the greetings from Jeff. Please let him know that we look
forward to his return to MAGIC! whenever he can drop by.
Msg #8115 Dated 2:47:40 07-06-91 -> 8117
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: ALL
Re: SAM DAY 3
Just a short update, as at this hour I can hardly see the screen.
Just returned from my turn to see Michael's 10:00 late lecture.
Mike opens with his Bottle production which then leads into the
Coin in Bottle. He follows this with his newest handling of Silk
in Egg, with a few new touches on the egg switch and a handy egg
holder he's devised from a plastic aspirin bottle.
He then proceeds to explain, in detail, his use of the Topit as
it applied to the Coin in Bottle and then demonstrates a few
favorite Topit vanishes and answers questions about the Topit
from the audience.
The Cups and Balls are next, with a repeat performance with
pauses along the way explaining each appearance and vanish.
During a question and answer session on this, I asked him
something about the wand spin, not knowing that he'd just hooked
up to his Tabman Table for the Floating Bill. Nothing fazed him,
as he just tucked the table under his arm and walked over to
where he'd left his wand, and proceeded to explain, all the while
with a thread tugging at his lip!
Naturally, the Floating Bill followed with a detailed
explanation of the type of thread used (Metroflock #100, as
mentioned here) and how to hook it up.
It seems he's eased up on the elastic thread use as after a lot
of experimenting, the lighting requirements and elasticity at the
wrong time just doesn't make up for the freedom of motion it
gives.
He closed this 90 minute session with a few stories, prompted by
people in the audience, and a short sales pitch for his books and
videos.
By the way, The videos I reported on earlier today are $37.50
postpaid, or both for $65.00 His address is:
Michael Ammar
5107 Evergreen Court
Austin, TX 78731
FAX (512) 454-7464
You might want to wait a week or two, as he is leaving for FISM
directly from here Saturday.
No further word yet on Eugene Burger's L.A. lecture. I'll try to
find him tomorrow.
I can't find my notes on today's show but they did give a special
Melbourne Christopher award for excellence in Stage Magic to
Sigfried and Roy. They were both there to accept and give a short
thank you speech (only 20 minutes or so).
The show started about half an hour behind, but who cared?
Included in today's show were:
The Stage Competition winners(I'll have their names tomorrow)
Mike Caldwell MC'd the show but this time he hired someone to
take a fall for him as he says he's too old for such nonsense.
Fetured was Alan Shaxon, and Leon's grandson(?) I'll remember his
name later too.
The Great Tomsoni and Co. closed the show with a full length
routine featuring birds, and a comic monologue including a comedy
mindreading routine. He finished with his bowling ball production
and left to resounding applause.
Stay tuned, more to come.
David (the other one)
Msg #8116 Dated 9:23:52 07-06-91 8114 <--> 8118
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: GREETINGS
I've already taken the liberty of doing so.
'W.
Msg #8117 Dated 9:33:45 07-06-91 8115 <--> 8121
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 3
Thanks for the excellent report, David. I do notice some similarities
with my IBM coverage - it was about Day 3 when I began to leave reports
at 3 and 4 in the morning and started saying "list to follow." You are
doing a great job of keeping us all informed.
Msg #8118 Dated 9:36:45 07-06-91 8116 <--> 8132
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: GREETINGS
Thanks for the message to Jeff. I think I'm begining to recover from
Baltimore. About 2 a.m. this morning I discovered that a hard drive on
my personal computer had died in my absense - don't know if the 'quake
got it.
Msg #8121 Dated 13:06:59 07-06-91 8115 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 3
Mike Caldwell also MC'd a show at IBM a few days ago. Grey slacks and
a blue blazer, right? Would be curious of the dealer lineup also to
see who made the trek to Las Vegas right from Baltimore. Thanks for
keeping us informed.
Msg #8122 Dated 13:07:05 07-06-91
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO
Re: YO BRO
Ee;8115
Don't know if you're gonna be able to sign on before you make the
jump across the big pond or not, but wanted to ay "bon voyage" and
will be looking for news of Biro from FISM via MAGIC!-NL over the
next week or so. Guess you made it to Barstow OK. What's the route
from LA to Europe? Well, wave if you fly over Ckraborg. Later bro,
have a great trip.
Msg #8123 Dated 16:27:15 07-06-91 8034 <--> 8130
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
At the PCAM convention, Micheal Weber was talking about the disclaimer
during both his lecture and Stan Allen's Inside Magic...LIVE!.I don't
remember his exact words, but the general gist of it was that he just
wanted to get credit for the work he put into creating the effect. Jim
Steinmeyer (also on the LIVE! panel) raised a ruckus when asked if he
is copyrighting the effect or the method. Many faces could be seen
shocked when he replied "The effect!".
Msg #8124 Dated 16:32:53 07-06-91 -> 8128
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: ALL
Re: NON-MAGIC CONVENTIONS
Since the hot topic right now is conventions, does anybody have any
info on the Juggling Convention in San Jose coming up in October? How
much, exactly where, etc.? I know I probably shouldn't ask a bunch of
magi about a juggling conventions, but I thought one or two of you
might know...
Msg #8126 Dated 16:40:03 07-06-91 8107 <--> 8127
From: STAN LAKE
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
If I had enough guts I could pay for my Vegas trip with Biro's "Sure
Bet". Walk up to the roulette and casually place $1000 on red!
Just for the thrill of it I might try it with a hundred. I don't know
though, you can get some mighty fine thrills for a hundred bucks- even
in Vegas!
Msg #8127 Dated 16:43:46 07-06-91 8110 <--> 8131
From: STAN LAKE
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Wow! I really admire your effort. Have you had any of your work
published in Japanese?
Hey I just thought of a great way for you to make some good extra
money. Proofreading all of those laughably and sometimes
incomprehensibly written instructions that come with certain Japanese
merchandise. A lot seems to be lost in the translation!
Msg #8128 Dated 18:51:24 07-06-91 8124 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: SCOTT CRAM
Re: NON-MAGIC CONVENTIONS
I don't have any info on the Juggling Convention, but if you find out,
I'd like to know too.
Msg #8130 Dated 19:06:44 07-06-91 8123 <--> 8133
From: MAX MAVEN
To: SCOTT CRAM
Re: SAM DAY 1
You've gotten some of the details confused. Weber's statement of rights
is hardly a "disclaimer" -- rather, I suppose it could be called a
"claimer" -- he is claiming ownership on his ideas, not just for the
sake of credit, but in terms of control over use of the material. As
for Steinmeyer, his comments concerning effect and method were not at
all about copyright. At any rate, his point was that in the case of
most of his inventions (e.g., the Origami Box) the method was based on
earlier material, whereas the effect was essentially new. Thus, his
comment was that he had little concern if another illusion creator were
to adapt some of the methodological ideas in another trick, but felt he
ought to have dibs on the effect rather than to have some builder make
minor modifications of the construction and claim ownership. Get it?
Msg #8131 Dated 19:11:06 07-06-91 8127 <--> 8140
From: MAX MAVEN
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Yes, I have had close to one hundred tricks published in Japanese, in
the form of several sets of lecture notes, about five books, a number
of marketed items (including five that were released by a major toy
company and are sold in department stores), a hardcover book on
fortune-telling sold in normal book stores, and a variety of magazine
contributions.
As for proofreading instructions, I do all of the English instructions
for Magic Land. It's worth noting that Gary Ouellet does the same for
the Tenyo line. These days relatively few Japanese tricks come out with
self-attempted English instructions.
Msg #8132 Dated 19:39:57 07-06-91 8118 <--> 8134
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: GREETINGS
Perhaps a renegade breeze brought you a bit of my magno-crazed chop cup
dust!
'W.
Msg #8133 Dated 19:42:13 07-06-91 8130 <--> 8139
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I'm really looking forward to the first legal test of Weber's "Claimer"
or "Statement of Rights."
'W.
Msg #8134 Dated 21:12:46 07-06-91 8132 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: GREETINGS
I'm hoping that I'm going to open up the computer and merely find a
loose wire... As an alternative, I was hoping that I'd simply lost the
Boot Track (the segment of the disk that informs the computer that the
disk exists), but, so far, that hope hasn't panned out. Have I ever
mentioned that I hate computers?
Msg #8136 Dated 21:48:36 07-06-91 -> 8137
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: ALL
Re: SAM DAY LAST
Finally we come to the last day of the 1991 S.A.M. Convention.
One disadvantage of living in the same city is that I have to
divide my time with home activities such as washing dishes, doing
the laundry, etc. If you're married to someone who doesn't
appreciate magic quite like you do, than you know what I mean.
One day I hope to travel to one so I can concentrate on magic and
Magic! more fully.
Yesterday's activities included a gambling lecture by our own
Geno Munari for those who wished to lessen their losses. Living
here has taught me that the Casinos usually get your money
eventually so you might as well know how to make your money last
longer.
Friday's Schedule was:
10:00 AM to 11:30 AM Young persons Splash Party
In the 110 degree heat, this was a very
popular event.
1:30 PM to 3:30 PM "Magical Grand Prix"
As reviewed yesterday,
Mike Caldwell MC'd in grand style with
"Stunt Johnson Theater" Pete Biro would
have enjoyed their opening skit. They were re-enacting a ganster
style beating "You can't make me talk!" he yelled as four thugs
beat on him. "Okay bring IT out". Someone comes on stage with a
bag and starts doing The Linking Rings to shouts of terror!
"Arrrggg! Not the Rings!... I still won't talk!" He then brings
out the dreaded Zombie! This almost does him in. He finally
breaks into a Mime routine. Well this puts the victim over the
edge, as they carry him off the stage kicking and screaming.
Alan Shaxon and Anne
Less Arnold & Co.
The Great Tomsoni and Co.
Now on to today's events:
9:30 AM to 11:00 AM Mike Rogers lecture "They All Work"
9:30 AM to 11:00 AM Magigals Meeting
11:00 AM to 12:00 Noon Close Up Show (I missed this, so I hope
Kent or Charlie can provide some help
when they get home)
1:30 PM to 3:30 PM "Magic Internationale" Show
Terry Seabrooke as MC introduced the
first act from England,
Mystina, (their version of Melinda) a
very energetic act with some of the
highest kicks ever seen. Jennifer Baran
was seated next to me and cringed every
time she did it. The magic was the
weakest part as it was all standard
dealers items incorporated in her dance
routines.
Terry Herbert was next as "The Great
Fiasco" Probably the best comic act so
far with his "Everything that can go
wrong WILL go wrong" routine.
Mike Michaels followed as "The
Mechanical Magician" The act that won
him the Gold Lion Award at Desert Magic
Seminar earlier this year. This young
man is going places!
Terry Seabrooke returned with his now
famous Bank Note routine.
Norm Nielsen came on with a wonderful
card production followed by The Miser's
Dream with the coins tumbling down a
musical chime ladder. He closed with his
Floating Violin. As he came out for his
curtain call, the violin walked out
under it's own power to join him!
Franz Harary was the last performer with
a high power Rock & Roll routine with
dancers and smoke filling the stage. He
introduced a new illusion using a large
plastic ball and a clear horizontal tube
just large enough for the ball to roll
through. An assistant enters the tube,
filling it completely and the tube is
covered. He then proceeds to roll the
ball through the tube and catches it on
the other side. When the tube is
uncovered, the girl is facing the
opposite direction!
This just about closes the convention as the dealers are busy
packing up. The dealer room remains open only to 6:00 PM instead
of the advertised Midnight to the delight of all dealers present.
The banquet started at 6:00 PM and the last event was a lecture
by Alan Shaxon at 8:00 PM. I didn't stay for it and I'm afraid
not many others did either. This has to be the loneliest spot for
a lecturer.
I did run into Eugene Burger before he left, and his L.A. lecture
will be July 9, at Chuck Fayne's shop. He suggests you call Chuck
for details. I hope this helps.
This wraps up another convention. Now on to FISM and hopefully a
few Biro reports will come our way. Bye from Las Vegas!
David (the other one)
Msg #8137 Dated 22:14:29 07-06-91 8136 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY LAST
Thanks for the dynamite SAM coverage, David (the other one). You
really did your bit for MAGIC! and it sounds like you had fun as well.
Great reporting - now we'll turn it over to ARNAUD for FISM along with
PETE. Pete may be filing some of his more detailed reports when he
returns stateside, but Arnaud has made special arrangements for us to
pick up his reports from MAGIC-NL (I'll be phoning the Netherlands a
couple of times a day).
Gee, it is begining to feel like after FISM we should switch to Peter
Arnel in Iraq for coverage of the Iraqui magic convention...
P.S. - Know what you mean about the dishes and the laundry - it was
nice to get away to Baltimore...
Msg #8138 Dated 23:51:43 07-06-91
From: STAN LAKE
To: ALL
Re: COMEDY OPENER
I was recently introduced to do a show with a remark along the lines of
"Let's see what he has up his sleeve this time". I'm sure this is not
original but it would have been nice to have been able to say I really
have nothing up my sleeve with a look of feigned innocence and whether
asked to prove it or not bring out a sign from my sleeve that says
"NOTHING". Along the same lines I have seen differen acts that have
used the effect of finding a piece of rope sticking out from their
sleeve and end up pulling out yards and yards of rope first from the
sleeve, then one pant leg and the other which finally ends up being
attached to a pair of boxer shorts. This rope routine could follow the
"Nothing" sign by saying I don't have anything up the other sleeve
either- Oh, what's this... etc.
It's just a rough idea but maybe someone can use it.
I was performing for some kids the other day and I had just finished
the crazy mans handcuffs which I follow up with the broken and restored
rubber band. Well while I was getting set one of them did break and I
just let it drop and went on with the second one. Well the inevitable
happened, they wanted me to fix the broken one laying on the ground.
With a little luck and quick thinking I was able to- here's how.
I normally have three rubber bands around my left wrist and I take two
of them off to do the Crazy Mans Handcuffs. The third is just a spare
in case one breaks. When confronted with the task of fixing the broken
rubber band on the ground I tossed the good rubber band into my case so
that my hands were empty. Placing my hands behind my back I looked at
the offending broken band and said that would be extra hard to do.
While saying this I slipped the extra band off of my wrist and into my
left hand. I reached down and picked it up with my right hand and did
a shuttle pass into my left. Reaching for just a pinch of good ol'
woofle dust (Sometimes it does come in handy in emergencies!) I dumped
the broken strand into the pocket and yet another miracle had taken
place. Whew!
Msg #8139 Dated 1:08:54 07-07-91 8133 <--> 8164
From: MAX MAVEN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
As I have stated before, I think it is useless to discuss this issue in
terms of legality. My opinions about this type of thing will not change
regardless of the outcome of such a "test."
Msg #8140 Dated 1:13:37 07-07-91 8131 <--> 8178
From: EVAN KATZ
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
At what point in teaching yourself Japanese did you depart from the
textbooks and have to learn aurally? From tapes or people?
Msg #8142 Dated 1:26:46 07-07-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC-33
The thirty-third set of MAGIC! messages - #6000 (June 13, 1991)
to #6499 (June 15, 1991) - has been transferred to a downloadable
file. The file is named MAGIC-33.TXT. This means that you can
now go to the file area, download this file, and read the thirty-
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-33.ZIP
and is less than 1/2 the size of the full-text version.
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 #8143 Dated 1:32:28 07-07-91 8096 <--> 8179
From: EVAN KATZ
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: REGARDS
This is, I assume, what I remember being referred to as the "Christ
Force." Except I can't _remember_ it. For my edification, where
would I look for a good writeup of the force? Especially in some
recent, in-print books?
Msg #8154 Dated 5:43:50 07-07-91 7995 <--> 8155
From: RANDY LUND
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
I'll look forward to seeing him and I'll report back to MAGIC! on the
proceedings. Looks loke we're going for all 4 days now.
Msg #8155 Dated 5:45:18 07-07-91 8015 <--> 8165
From: RANDY LUND
To: PETE BIRO
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
I'm lucky, I only live about 40min from Colon in Kalamazoo, so I'll
probably stay home. Either that or we'll trailer the boat down and put
her in the water and spend the nights on the boat. Colon has a lovely
lake. I understand that the Blackstone summer residence was located on
the lake.
Msg #8156 Dated 5:53:57 07-07-91 -> 8161
From: RANDY LUND
To: PETE BIRO
Re: CUPS AND BALLS
Oh, yes I forgot to mention in my last message, the name of our boat is
the CUPS & BALLS. You can imagine the strange looks we get on occasion
from non magi...........Randy
Msg #8157 Dated 5:55:38 07-07-91 -> 8162
From: RANDY LUND
To: SYSOP
Re: MAGIC!
David, is there anything I can or should to to promote MAGIC! at the
upcoming Abbotts get together other than word of mouth. If so let me
know.....
....
Version 3 update
.....
She's coming back together nicely. All major sections are now
operational, but still bug infested. There will be a new installation
program to allow for variable size installation. The ranges will be...
Tricks 100-1000
Books 100-32000
Organizations 10-100 (these are organizations from which you have
bookings.
Perfomances 10-100 in increments of 10 these are performances ties
to a booking organization.
..
In minimum or near minimum configuration she will still run from a high
density floppy. In max configuration she needs 53 meg of hard disk
space to hold it all.
..
You will be able to start uot small and increase space allocations
later, I still have to decide, decreases may not be alloed due to the
possibility of data loss.
..
..
Randy L
Msg #8158 Dated 6:38:36 07-07-91 -> 8163
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: PETE BIRO
Pete Biro is headed for LAX right now getting ready to wing his way
over to Europe. He was unable to get online since the IBM due to
a: no modular phone cord at his hotel in LA
b: he went to Radio Shack and then Barstow, Az where the hotel had
rotary dial teles and no luck there.
Pete is doing great - other than not being able to sign on - and
asked me to relay this information to you.
Msg #8161 Dated 10:08:36 07-07-91 8156 <--> 8168
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: CUPS AND BALLS
Pete is enroute to FISM right now, but I think that once he knows there
is a boat named CUPS & BALLS he will say "AARRRGGGHHH!" (Not to put
words in his mouth, of course).
Msg #8162 Dated 10:10:43 07-07-91 8157 <--> 8225
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: MAGIC!
MAGIC3DB sounds GREAT! Someone will probably use the full-blown 53-Meg
version. The problem of "downsizing" a database is, well, always a
problem. Classically, it isn't permitted - but Lotus and many others
do allow it (MAGIC! allows the Sysop to downsize the message base).
The theory under which it is allowed could probably be called "let the
user mess up if he wants to." I would say that if it is possible to
allow downsizing it should probably be included.
As to Abbott's - if nothing else, wear your MAGIC! button! I believe
there is a version of the handout that we used at IBM here on the
system if you want to download it, or I could send some material to
you, but word of mouth seems effective.
Msg #8163 Dated 10:14:40 07-07-91 8158 <--> 8169
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PETE BIRO
Thanks for the Biro update, Tabby. We'll look forward to his reports,
via Arnaud, from Europe.
Msg #8164 Dated 10:23:16 07-07-91 8139 <--> 8170
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
We are all entitled to our opinions, Max. The LIFE SAVERS "Rights
Claimer" is not in the presentational form of an opinion. It seems to
be a serious claim in "Legalese" which, in my opinion, will never hold
up to any serious challenge in Court.
The issue has been defined in as a legal one by the very nature of
"Rights Claim" which, in this case, sparked the issue to begin with.
Our opinions which may not address the issue on these terms are
certainly valid but, nevertheless, will be relegated to a philosophical
role in the discussion.
'W.
Msg #8165 Dated 10:37:52 07-07-91 8154 <--> 8171
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: RANDY LUND (X)
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
I'm looking forward to your reports, Randy.
'W.
Msg #8168 Dated 12:59:24 07-07-91 8161 <--> 8172
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CUPS AND BALLS
I like the name, Cups and Balls, for a boat. I wish I'd thought of
that. If I ever get that sailboat and move to Maui, maybe Randy'll
let me call mine Cups & Balls II.
.
Got an old letter from Geo. Boston when he ran Abbotts in LA in
which he gives a review of the Calvert Show which is similar to
what we wittnessed the other night. Interesting. I got the letter for
the cool logo and Boston's autograph and only just read through those
old letters. I even kept the Dr. Wilson letter with the razer slice
because the content was interesting enough to risk a flaw.
.
Also a letter from Lloyd Jones to Paul Flemming discussing his plans
for the major library he was bidding to aquire. The letter from Bill
Larsen, Sr. on Thayer Studio of Magic letterhead to Flemming predicts
the newly reprinted Sach's On Sleight of Hand will sell at least
10,000 copies. If he only knew. Later still on downsized, black and
while Sphinx stationery, John Mullholland requests a trick from Paul
Flemming for the Lycium special issue. I tried to find some letters
from Floyd Thayer on Thayer's stationery but no luck.
.
Who is Pereira? I found a beautiful program and brochure on him for
three bux from Geo. Daily.
Who is Weber the Wizard? I have correspondence from him to Paul
Flemming, first on plane paper and later on ornate purple, yellow
and black heavy weight stationery. Weber it appears was mentored
mostly by mail by Flemming as he moved up in the world of magic.
.
Also from Geo. Daily, an autographed Now You Do One by Doc Nixon.
Signed "To Kalamazo, '32', Success, Yuen Ghang Foo, 'Nixon'". Nixon
is another interesting character. He bought Okito's Oriental show
from Okito when Okito first retire. Later, Okito was dismayed that
Nixon claimed authorship of much early Okito. Nixon dissapeared
later in California with reports of his joining a religous order
and cloistering himself. Nixon was working a magic convention in
1932 and quite probably prepared the manuscript to pitch after his
performance.
Msg #8169 Dated 12:59:55 07-07-91 8163 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: PETE BIRO
His voice was on my machine when I crawled downstairs this morning
sooooooo. He also requested that I tell you in person, so consider
yourself told. I didn't want to call you on the business line this
morning since it's your day off.
Msg #8170 Dated 13:00:02 07-07-91 8164 <--> 8176
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
If the top guys all respect each other and the creations of same,
then the rest of the magic world will fall in line. The only
recourse is to change the attitude of the system of grabs to the
system of respect. The old time guys were no better, and actually
maybe even worse about stealing each others stuff. Horace Goldin
once patented and trademarked the Sawing in Half illusion and took
P.T. Selbit to court trying to stop him from doing his own invention
in America. The judge allowed Selbit to perform after he proved that
his invention used a different method but forced him to change his
name of the illusion he invented since Goldin had taken the legal
route. Arm and protect yourself, nobody is gonna do it for you.
Msg #8171 Dated 13:00:13 07-07-91 8165 <--> 8188
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
Maybe Randy can find out their real mailing address while he's there.
Msg #8172 Dated 13:14:40 07-07-91 8168 <--> 8175
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CUPS AND BALLS
Wow! Those are some real finds, Tabbo. Perhaps others on here can
comment, supplying additional info.
I'm working on "cleaning up" MAGIC! right now - trying to get all the
messages in their proper places, filed away. Although it does not
effect MAGIC! directly, the hit on the hard drive on my personal
computer was deadly - all attempts at CPR have failed - oh, well.
Msg #8173 Dated 13:34:11 07-07-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC-34
The thirty-fourth set of MAGIC! messages - #6500 (June 15, 1991)
to #6999 (June 18, 1991) - has been transferred to a downloadable
file. The file is named MAGIC-34.TXT. This means that you can
now go to the file area, download this file, and read the thirty-
fourth 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-34.ZIP
and is less than 1/2 the size of the full-text version.
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 #8176 Dated 16:01:04 07-07-91 8164 <--> 8180
From: EVAN KATZ
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I think it's worth making clear that there are two, separate statements
on LIFESAVERS. The one on the back, visible before you buy the book,
is not REALLY restrictive, if you read it carefully: "Micheal Weber
hereby grants you full permission to perform any and all of the
routines in "Life Savers" ... in any improvisational setting."
Notice that there is no explicitly restrictive or forbidding language
here -- the restrictions are purely implied. A reasonable man could
easily read this at complete face value, and not think that he wasn't
ALSO allowed to perform the effects in other situations.
The copyright statement in the inside of the book is another story. As
you know, it explicity reserves performance rights to Weber.
I disagree with Max in regard to the uselessness of discussing this.
But I agree with him when he questions the appropriatness of publishing
material for a price, then forbidding people to do what they like with
it. I assume many magicians publish for the professional recognition
at least as much, if not more, than the money. Weber, it seems, wants
the professional recognition without truly "giving" his material to the
community. Understandable in some sense, but in my opinion,
questionable.
As previously noted here, I feel strongly it was very wrong for Weber
(and Kaufman) not to have included the restrictive rights statement on
the OUTSIDE of the book, where the other statement is printed.
And, as you said, I have deep doubts as to whether this would stand up
in court at all.
--Evan
Msg #8177 Dated 16:45:34 07-07-91 -> 8183
From: TABBY CRABB
To: SYSOP
Re: BIROSAN
A call from Pete puts him at JFK airport just about to catch his plane
for Paris. I told him you'd be checking MAGIC!-NL daily so maybe we'll
be able to find out then.
Msg #8178 Dated 17:43:26 07-07-91 8140 <--> 8200
From: MAX MAVEN
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
From the very outset I combined the study of books with direct spoken
interaction, albeit rather primitive. I never worked with tapes; they
do not appeal to me.
Msg #8179 Dated 17:44:56 07-07-91 8143 <-
From: MAX MAVEN
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: REGARDS
As it happens there is a trick of mine in the current issue of "New
Tops" which is based on the 203rd Force.
Msg #8180 Dated 17:45:52 07-07-91 8176 <--> 8182
From: MAX MAVEN
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
You seem to misunderstand what I've said. I don't think it is useless
to discuss this situation, but rather that there is little point in
approaching such discussion from the legal angle. I'll say it again:
few people define their moral stance based upon the law, therefore any
discussion of efforts to control the rights of performance is not going
to benefit from the side issue of legality.
And, I do not at all think that Michael Weber's restrictions are
"not appropriate." I think they are _unreasonable_, which is not the
same at all. In essence, I think it is entirely appropriate for the
creator to state restrictions, even if said restrictions are
unreasonable.
Msg #8182 Dated 18:06:30 07-07-91 8180 <--> 8184
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Your stance on the "restrictions issue" seems very congruent with my
own. But Weber does have a law degree and has evidently chosen to
embody his statements in legal terms. It would therefore seem
reasonable to assume that he is not attempting to use moral suasion but
that he might plan to enforce his restrictions through the legal
system. This has become increasingly common in our society.
Msg #8183 Dated 18:12:28 07-07-91 8177 <--> 8192
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: BIROSAN
Sounds like he is doing it the hard way - there is a perfectly nice Air
France flight direct from LAX. Guess he'll be taking the TGV from
Paris - a nice trip.
Msg #8184 Dated 19:36:19 07-07-91 8176 <--> 8186
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Evan,
I just bought Lifesavers in spite of the discussions and as it turns
out, I'm still glad I did. It seems in the context of improvisational
magic, this book is excellent, and as discussed in the introduction,
there is a difference between imprompty and improvisation. Most of the
material ends up being unsuitable in a prepared show, but is designed,
as Mike intended, to be a "Lifesaver", where you need that one
something to close a deal for a show, for instance, and you're
otherwise unprepared.
David (the other one)
Msg #8186 Dated 20:58:21 07-07-91 8184 <--> 8187
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I, too, am pleased with my purchase of "Lifesavers." And, since I will
never use it in the settings Weber is prohibiting, my objections are
not practical.
"Life Savers" makes an interesting comparison with David Harkey's new
book -- while Harkey's book does not take on the task of describing
magic for impromptu situations, many if not most of the effects fit
that description. It is an odd book, I feel, filled with lots of
ideas, some genuinely great, some pretty lame, and most not well
thought out or completely evolved. Whereas Weber's new book seems to
be brimming with PRACTICAL effects, Harkey's seems to be brimming with
problematic ones. Also lots of effects where I feel certain the
spectator could reconstruct the trick, and figure it out.
Any other thoughts out there on "Simply Harley?" I assume there's been
so little discussion about it in part because Harkey is not marketing
it through dealers.
Msg #8187 Dated 22:40:15 07-07-91 8176 <--> 8189
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I still say it's like selling a cookbook and only allowing the
purchaser to prepare the recipes for an "improvisational" meal.
'W.
Msg #8188 Dated 22:44:41 07-07-91 8171 <--> 8195
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
Probably only a P.O. box...they DO actually have a Post Office in
Colon, y'know...although I don't have the address for it.
'W.
Msg #8189 Dated 0:27:42 07-08-91 8187 <--> 8190
From: EVAN KATZ
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Good analogy. Like letting the buyer of the cookbook only prepare
meals for friends -- when you have business associates over, you have
to pay a royalty!
Msg #8190 Dated 0:37:42 07-08-91 8187 <--> 8193
From: MAX MAVEN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I suspect Michael Weber would say that he is making a distinction
between using the recipes for a home dinner, as opposed to opening a
restaurant based upon them.
Msg #8192 Dated 7:18:57 07-08-91 8183 <--> 8210
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BIROSAN
Pete said he asked his travel agent for non stop and they have him
changing in NYC, Paris, Zurich. Hes probably had to sleep on the
train from Zurich, feels like crap and FISM started this morning
in full swing.
.
Pete said he'd try to sign on from the same hotel in LA when he gets
back in the US.
Msg #8193 Dated 7:19:05 07-08-91 8184 <--> 8194
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
David,
Can you give me a run down on the dealers who were at SAM. Im curious
about who made the trek from Baltimore overnight to Las Vegas. Also
any word on Geno's Close-up Convention for the fall?
Msg #8194 Dated 7:19:11 07-08-91 8186 <--> 8196
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
The ads for the Harkey book were very nice but I didn't get the book.
Books of late that I picked up were a combination of old and new.
Four copies of Erdnase incl a nice 1902 edition. ILLUSION SHOW by
David Bamberg (Fu Manchu - Okito's son), HOUDINI's UNMASKING by
Hugard pub by Goe. Daily, ROAD HUSTLER (2nd revised, enlarged) which
I'm reading now. It is right on the mark. I've never hustled a game,
but have been hustled by a team of rough hustlers in Nashville. If
you're a player, read this book. On order, Steinmeyer's new Illusion
book which I'm looking 4ward to.
Msg #8195 Dated 7:19:20 07-08-91 8188 <--> 8206
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
I'd probably get kicked off this board if I initiated a new thread
on Abbott's address.
Msg #8196 Dated 7:19:25 07-08-91 8190 <--> 8204
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I feel that it is the right of the originator to dispense his
material in any way he/she sees fit. There are givers and takers
and a lot of gray area in the middle. I suspect that Mr. Weber is
doing this because he can. Though, I also suspect that his restric-
tions will go untested.
Msg #8197 Dated 7:19:32 07-08-91 -> 8211
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO
Re: FISM
Ee;8190
Thanks for your call from NY. Hope the trip went OK and that you're
socializing with friends right now. We'll be looking 4 u via MAGIC!NL
and Arnaud's daily reports. Congrats on the big win at Barstow. You
fellows just missed the heat here. 100 degrees yesterday. Have a good
un and talk with you later...
Msg #8199 Dated 9:11:11 07-08-91 8101 <--> 8202
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Er;8094
Biro and the other West Coasters would be a better source than a dyed
in the wool Virginian like me. I believe there is a weekend magic
get together of somesort in Hollywood and I think I have read about
one day swap fests that included lectures and performances. Check
out Genii's page of upcoming conventions or Stan Allen's old news-
letter, the dearly departed Inside Magic.
Msg #8200 Dated 9:41:08 07-08-91 8094 <--> 8201
From: BILL WELLS
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Biro and the other West Coasters would be a better source than a dyed
in the wool Virginian like me. I believe there is a weekend magic
get together of somesort in Hollywood and I think I have read about
one day swap fests that included lectures and performances. Check
out Genii's page of upcoming conventions or Stan Allen's old news-
letter, the dearly departed Inside Magic.
Msg #8201 Dated 9:41:27 07-08-91 8100 <--> 8213
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
David...I agree with Max in that I feel a USA FISM is very unlikely,
in fact, I will be very surprised if the Japanese are successful in
getting the OK to host the 1994 FISM. In spite of the name, FISM is
really an European Convention. It will be a very different affair
if held in Japan.
Msg #8202 Dated 9:41:40 07-08-91 8101 <--> 8212
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
You are certainly very welcome to use of the old 286, too bad the
damn thing is so big and heavy.
How can you truly be the Frog is you don't wear the green pants? We
will have to refer to you as the Tadpole if you start wearing black!
Guess I will have to lighten up on Biro and his suit and tie...I
wouldn't want him to get jaded.
Msg #8203 Dated 9:41:58 07-08-91 8168 <--> 8207
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CUPS AND BALLS
Tabman...the George Boston letter is GREAT. El Birosan will love the
Calvert comments. Funny how some things never change. Been reading
Ghostmasters and there are some interesting comments about him there
as well. Many thanks for the FAX of the letter as well as your
comments on the Convention. I am slowly returning to a normal (well
at least for me) existance after Baltimore.
Msg #8204 Dated 10:03:52 07-08-91 8190 <--> 8205
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I suspect that such an argument would get him laughed out of any court
in the nation.
'W.
Msg #8205 Dated 10:06:16 07-08-91 8196 <--> 8208
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I suspect that any violations of his restrictions will go unchallenged.
'W.
Msg #8206 Dated 10:07:30 07-08-91 8195 <--> 8209
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
Yes, but perhaps we could initiate a thread about the address of the
Colon Post Office.
'W.
Msg #8207 Dated 12:54:31 07-08-91 8203 <--> 8215
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BILL WELLS
Re: CUPS AND BALLS
I never had a chance to go by and get the Ghostmasters stuff, though
I wanted to. I grabbed his flyer though and will order it when I get
a chance. At $50, I don't think he'll soon sellout, though there was
a buying frenzy after the lecture. I had no cash on me right then or
I wood of popped for one. Later in the dealer room, Geo. Daily had
a bunch of great old letters and the rest is history. Mostly, I'd
rather hold history in my hands. Ray-Mond was in the crowd that night
lamenting as to not bringing his posters, etc to sell off. I told
Pete about the letter on the phone when he was at airport in NYC and
he said "you gotta fax it to Wells and Nagel!" Well, I guess I better
fax it to JN.
Msg #8208 Dated 12:54:42 07-08-91 8204 <--> 8220
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I still contend that is the routine, patter, etc were copyrighted as
a play that performance fees could be extacted; other than that there
isn't much that can be done about it. It's like building your house
from some plans in a book or magazine. But, what do I know. The only
law school that accepted me was Buddy's Law College in Indiana and
I couldn't stand the 900 mile daily commute.
Msg #8209 Dated 12:54:50 07-08-91 8206 <--> 8221
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
I'm scared to mess with any messages about Colon. At one time they
had a store in LA. I have that address if you want it.
Msg #8210 Dated 13:30:16 07-08-91 8192 <--> 8217
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: BIROSAN
The paths of the Biro-san are many and strange. He flew from Paris to
Zurich? Then took the train from Zurich? Must be a designed to keep
him from being followed.
Msg #8211 Dated 13:34:24 07-08-91 8197 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO
Re: FISM
We may have missed the heat in Maryland, but there is no end to the
wonders of Los Angeles - would you believe RAIN this morning? Yep, it
really happened!
Msg #8212 Dated 13:36:47 07-08-91 8202 <--> 8219
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Frogs exist in many colors, sizes and shapes, including black. We tend
to wear the traditional green for festivals though. One of my favorite
types of frog is the South American Poison Arrow Frog - about 1/2 inch
long, it is possibly the deadliest (to humans) creature on the face of
the Earth - green and black.
My, but you write some terrible things about the Biro!
Msg #8213 Dated 13:42:25 07-08-91 8201 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS
Re: CONVENTIONS
Stan Allen has some provocative comments about FISM in the current
(July, 1991) issue of Inside Magic. It will be interesting to see if
a decision to have the 1994 FISM in Japan is made.
I assume that the bulk of IBM members are located in the U.S. - has
there ever been any meaningful discussion related to holding the IBM
convention outside of the U.S.?
Msg #8214 Dated 16:33:40 07-08-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: OPTIMIZATION
If you called around 4 p.m. Pacific Time today, we were optimizing the
system and it was unavailable for a few moments.
Msg #8215 Dated 16:34:02 07-08-91 8207 <--> 8218
From: MICHAEL OVERLY
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CUPS AND BALLS
The Ray-Mond you mentioned isn't the Raymond from Maryland is it? The
guy I'm thinking of should be in his seventies by now.
Msg #8216 Dated 16:39:51 07-08-91
From: MAX MAVEN
To: ALL
Re: BURGER SEMINAR
Eugene Burger tells me that there are a few places open for those who
wish to attend his L.A. seminar on Tuesday, 7/9 at 8:00 PM. For
information call Chuck Fayne, (213)-289-8070.
Msg #8217 Dated 16:52:40 07-08-91 8210 <--> 8226
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BIROSAN
That's what he told me unless he set me up to be the decoy providing
phoney leads. He's got a good sense of humor anyway. I hope he's
having a great time and gets to smell the roses while he's there.
Msg #8218 Dated 16:52:47 07-08-91 8215 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MICHAEL OVERLY
Re: CUPS AND BALLS
Ray-Mond, Raymond Corbin, magician and spook show magi. In his 70s
and lives in Westminster, MD. Ray-Mond was in Florida last year on
a nostalgia lecture tour and staying with his son. He's been selling
off his stuff past few years and had some interesting lists. He
looks good and is a good conversationalist and has an eye for the
excitement of life all around him, if you know what I mean.
Msg #8219 Dated 16:52:55 07-08-91 8212 <--> 8227
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
You should get green backed decks to do the "frog" trick.
Msg #8220 Dated 18:10:51 07-08-91 8208 <--> 8232
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Not an easy commute for me, either. A moot point, though. I wasn't
accepted into Buddy's.
'W.
Msg #8221 Dated 18:12:14 07-08-91 8209 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
Ahhh, forget it. I just realized that I don't even know where MY colon
is! Maybe my application to Buddy's Medical School will be accepted.
'W.
Msg #8225 Dated 19:49:47 07-08-91 8162 <--> 8228
From: RANDY LUND
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC!
I'll try down loading the handout and xerox a bunch at work. I think
I can get they guys at Abbotts to let me place them out in the dealers
area somewhere. Otherwise, I will wear my button and talk it up. The
only problem I see from last years convention these folks don;t look
very computer literate....but who knows, looks can be decieving.
.
Randy
Msg #8226 Dated 20:23:16 07-08-91 8217 <--> 8231
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB
Re: BIROSAN
Remind me to tell you about the time Anita & I were on the DECOY PLANE
for an important Middle Eastern Prime Minister. We made an emergency
landing in Athens and it was very exciting. Possible that Pete is
using false leads to keep magi from traveling with him and seeing his
false cuts. It is not traditional to smell the roses in Switzerland -
usually one smells the Edelweiss.
It is, however, late in the year for Edelweiss to be in bloom.
I'm trying to get the FISM news, but you would not believe what is
going on here - my personal computer now has a dead power supply and
possibly TWO dead hard drives. I may have to make the call today from
a laptop at 300 baud.
Msg #8227 Dated 20:26:50 07-08-91 8219 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Got the frog trick from Mike Close. Bicycle makes green decks in
miniature, but not, so far as I know, in bridge or poker size. Might
try it with miniatures. Thanks for the idea.
Msg #8228 Dated 20:29:36 07-08-91 8225 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: RANDY LUND
Re: MAGIC!
Everyone has been surprised at the number of people who come out of the
computer closet when you begin to talk about MAGIC! There were about
80 people packing the room for the MAGIC! seminar at Desert Magic and
about 400 at IBM! They just don't look like computer people.
Of course, there is a guy from the Castle who calls me about once a
week trying to figure out if he can read the MAGIC! messages on his big
screen television (he doesn't own a computer)... But he is somewhat of
an exception.
Msg #8231 Dated 21:47:51 07-08-91 8226 <-
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP)
Re: BIROSAN
How many Middle Eastern countries other than Israel _have_ a genuine
Prime Ministerw?
Msg #8232 Dated 22:04:30 07-08-91 8193 <-
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: TABBY CRABB
Re: SAM DAY 1
Tabby,
Here is a partial list of dealers that were SAM this week.
I forgot to write them down as I went through, so this is just
from memory.
Daytona Magic Hank Lee
Haines House of Cards Owens
Collector's Workshop Byron's Books
Mike Ammar John Kennedy
Terry Seabrooke Kevin James
Nicholas Night Munari Productions
Marvello Zee's (coin boxes)
Hade's Publications Chazpro
Magic Touch John Cornelius
Magic from Japan Bill Smith Ventures
Norm Neilsen L&L Publishing
Opus Magazine Chris Kenner (Illusions)
Stan Allen's Magic Steven's Emporium
Frank Herman Suds
Genii
There are a few more including the Co. publishing the Dancing
Hankerchief Book (demos every hour), and several standard
dealers. I have a few business cards I'll have to find. If I
missed any major dealers, I'll let you know.
David (the other one)
ps No word yet on Geno's this fall. I do remember Joe Stevens wanting
to do a FFFF trick and only invite those who were registered from last
year. Even if everybody returned there should be room as he had trouble
filling the convention anyway (thus allowing locals like me in without
pre-registering)
Msg #8239 Dated 23:29:12 07-08-91 8073 <--> 8251
From: JERRY BURTON
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MORE PCAM
I made it back to LA finally. Train to CT broke had to climb onto
another one - a local. About an hour & half late.
.
Supposed to come home yesterday - flight to Phillie cancelled, so
switched to plane to Baltimore, half way done the runway he shut down
and went back to the terminal - mechanical problem.
.
Due to a screw-up by my travel agency I was on standby and could get
another flight to LA until this morning a 6:45 am - spent night at
airport with the rest of the vagrants. Finally got home about 2pm
Monday.
.
Really had a great time - looking forward to DMS and Salt Lake next
year.
.
I found a really neat book store in CT. I picked up a book on gamblin
g for you. It was printed in 1900, shows all kinds of gambling gaffs
in use at the time - published by the Chicago Anti-gambling League.
Should arrive here by Fri and I'll UPS it out to you.
.
Also found a autographed copy of a book called 'Spirit Crooks' 1932
signed by the author and President of SAM 1938.
Msg #8240 Dated 23:29:32 07-08-91 7890 <--> 8243
From: JERRY BURTON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: REVIEWS
They closed the 30th of June, I was going to see them the 6th. Saw
Will Rogers at the Follies with David Caridine instead - good show.
.
Then down to Mostly Magic to see John Carney and Rocco. Rocco does a
great Sylvester Stallone impression (except that's the way he talks)
and a terrific manipulation act. Great magic, if he didn't talk, it
would be even better - finally made it back, spent 24 hours on planes
and in airports getting here tho. See msg to Tabman.
Msg #8241 Dated 23:51:35 07-08-91 8231 <--> 8265
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: BIROSAN
OK, you got it. It was quite an exciting trip - especially the
emergency landing in Athens (not a popular place with El Al). Circling
over Greece gave us one of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen -
I hope to get back there someday, but under more favorable
circumstances.
Right now I'm just trying to do CPR on my personal computer. It has
added a whole new level of complexity to my life. Meanwhile, I've had
to move communications to a 386-33 that is running naked on the floor
- very odd to have to look down to see the screen.
Msg #8243 Dated 23:58:17 07-08-91 8240 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JERRY BURTON
Re: REVIEWS
I heard about P&T closing - it is a pity that such a highly recommended
show closed due to declining attendance.
Sounds like, except for travel, you had a good time. Nice to have you
back in LaLa Land!
Msg #8251 Dated 0:20:22 07-09-91 8239 <--> 8274
From: T A WATERS
To: JERRY BURTON
Re: MORE PCAM
Wasn't that title SPOOK CROOKS -- by Proskauer?
Msg #8252 Dated 0:54:50 07-09-91 -> 8253
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: FISM DAY 1 PT 1 OF 2
Our round-the-globe convention coverage continues with FISM - here
is our first report:
The initial announcement from MAGIC-NL in the Netherlands:
Well FISM is getting closer, and at this BBS you will wittness a
unique piece of convention reporting, in the history of Magic.
In close combination with MAGIC!-US (Pete Biro is also travelling
with laptop PC) you will be kept up-to-date on all the latest at
the FISM battlefields. You can expect daily reports on all major
events.
All reports willl be posted in the US area and will be posted to
MAGIC-US, this to make message retrieval for the US easier (each
night the reports will be send to the US).
Have fun and hope you get the feeling to be a part of it.....
And now the news...
Message #603 - Echomail MAGIC!-US
Date : 07-Jul-91 23:45
From : Arnaud Van.Rietschoten
To : Magic-Us
Subject : FISM report
Sunday 7 july 1991,
At the moment we are 'training' in direction Lasusanne. In our
travelling company we have Dick Koornwinder, Tommy Wonder, Menno
Dros, Bob Driebeek, Frans De Groot, Wouter Jageneau, Henk Romeyn
Charles Jaques, Arnoud ven Delden, Kees Schooenberg and myself. We
are all looking forward to FISM, temperature is good and we think
back to 1982, the last time we visited Lausanne with the FISM
circus.
The only rememberance we have to that event is the lack of cooling;
the origanisation did not want to spend their money to something
abstract as Airco.
It was the last time Lance Burton appeared on a FISM stage. In fact
it was the FISM he became world champion, a young, unknown guy,
however the rumours were heading his fame.
It was also the FISM of Philippe Socrate, the romantic general magic
prizewinning act, with the speaking, (ala zombie) flying rose. In
close up we remember Aurelio Paviato 1st prize carto, ex-aequo with
Michael Ammar. In close-up Daryl went home with the largest cup.
Furthermore we are now discussing who else have won last time in
Lausanne. Since time has passed, we are now mixing up all FISM's.
For this FISM it's complete unclear who this year has a change to be
the overall winner. Will it again be a close-upper?? Will we maybe
have a female grand-prix winner (Jade...). Or maybe we will get
another Russian Grand prix winner (as in Brussels 12 years ago), you
never know with these russian performers, they can really comeup
with some real surprising acts, but I think you have witnessed that
yourself during the last IBM.
We don't think the dutch will make a good change. We have some
contestants but none of them is a serious candidate for the grand-
prix.
We have some promising young illusionists but they do not contest
and took the money, and choose to appear in the Gala.
At this moment in the train we are discussion the phenomena that
many acts maybe too quickly choose to perform in the Gala, while
they maybe better should participate in the contest. It is
devaluating the contest. Of course there is a friction between the
organising committee who wants to have a surprising Gala, and needs
new acts. We think it is pitty we never saw the Pendragons, James
Dimmare in the competition, because it really would level the
contest upwards.
Of course we look forward to your comments on our reports, so we can
stay in touch with you. I kindly ask David to combine those
comments and upload them as a message, to my attention, during his
daily call to the Dutch BBS.
The daily convention reports should be available at ca. 12:00hrs LA
time (in the afternoon). I have to check how facilities are at the
convention center, can I get an easy telephone connection, or do I
have to call from the Hotel??? When I have explored the possi-
bilities, I might be able to have the messages earlier online. For
the announcement of the new World Champion I think I will login
directly to the US, to enable you to have this news as soon as pos-
sible. Once we get the program tomorrow, I know at what time that
will be. (Note from MAGIC! (U.S.) Sysop - reports will generally be
posted later in the afternoon than Arnaud would like, due to a
computer failure here in the office).
Max (Maven) it's a pitty you are not visiting the FISM (this is what
Tommy Wonder told us....) Bob (Driebeek) was also disappointed not
to meet you as he has some things with him you wanted him to bring
over....
---
* Origin: MAGIC!-NL, Home of the wizards, +31-23-388725 (2:0/0)
Msg #8253 Dated 0:56:27 07-09-91 8252 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: FISM DAY 1 PT 2 OF 2
Our FISM coverage continues:
Message #606 - Echomail MAGIC!-US
Date : 09-Jul-91 00:04
From : Arnaud Van.Rietschoten
To : Magic-Us
Subject : FISM report
08 July 1991 Lausanne, Switzerland
01:11 am....
Although I told you about the hot weather conditions we remember
ourself of the last FISM in Lausane, the moment we left the train in
Lausanne a terrible rain started, and because we were dressed for
the 30 degrees (Centigrade) the majority of our group looked like
Zombies in notime.
Well, we found the hotel, and I feared for the worst when I saw
the telephone system of year 0 (b.c.). But since you are reading
this, it means we managed to contact holland, via the genius ways
Pete Biro learned us on the US board. I left Holland with a little
BBS-first-aid-travelling-set (screwdriver and alligator clips).
Mainly thanks due to the help of my co-sysop Arnoud van Delden.
We also had a first look through the program. One of the non
train-ing dutchies already registered, so already received all
his convention goodies.
And what we feared has come reality, contests start at 08.00AM
(that's in the MORNING!!!!) till 12.30pm and in afternoon from
1.30-6.00!!!! A 140 contestants. A real inhuman exercise to watch
that all, and FISM should really start thinking about limiting
the number of contestants.
When I have the program I will give you some more details.
During Diner we experienced Lausanne was found by other magiciens
too. We saw Rich Block (& family) and a japanese magicien doing
some final exercises, at the restaurant table, for his manipulation
act.
Stop
Message #607 - Echomail MAGIC!-US
Date : 09-Jul-91 00:05
From : Arnaud Van.Rietschoten
To : Magic-Us
Subject : FISM report
First Gala 08 July 1991 8.00 pm
After a strong security check we entered the showroom. You must
know that all convention visitors above the 1800 are marked with a
green batch, and are not able to attend tha Gala's. They had a
reduction in price, since the theatre cannot hold more than 1800
people. So security is heavy to keep those green invadors outside.
The Gala was MC'ed by Aldo Colombini from Italy, who did a great
job. He was creating good laughs and presented all very easy, and
relaxed.
The Gala was opened by Marcus Gabriel from Switzerland. Marcus was
the 3rd prize winner from the last FISM in the Hague, in the class
manipulation. He started with a part of that act; a dancing cane
wih modern magic. Next he went to an original levitation. On stage
there is a wind-machine of which the blower is put so the it's
blowing upward. A girl is put on that blower and 'hangs' above it.
She really behaves as if she is kept up by the wind. The picture
looks very good....she goes up and down. Bad part is that when he
stops the blower he keeps the girl floating while we thought it
would be more logica if she would have dropped down. Besides this
little thing the illusion looked very nice and had a good response.
Next was James Brandon. I keep the description short since you have
seen that act many times already. Personally it is not one of my
favorites, I miss a ine in the performance, the routines are not
matching the Macho show is is giving.
Voronin from Russia was next. We saw the act during the alst
national convention and is very strange. He comes up in a static
way and walks very slowly. However in the middle of the stage he
does not stop but walk right off at the other side of the stage.
The way he does is more funny than writing it up. The rest of the
act is happeing behind a large cloth he is holding in front of him,
as a zombie cloth. He lifts the cloth in front of his head, and is
suddely wearing strange hats. As climax he is levitating himself
above teh table. Very strong reaction and lots of applause. We
look forward to his appearance in the competition.
Last before intermission was Greg Wilson. Greg was a bit unfortunate
due to bad stage producing. Lights went off. Music was late etc.
Furthermore Greg did a good show.
After intermission the show started with Schumagulov from Russia.
They start with a girl in a giant balloon, furthermore the act was
not that surprising.
Next was Mike Douglas from the US. A very good act brought very
relaxed, funny original manipulations.
Mahka Tendo was probably the most successful of the evening, as he
received the most applause. He was the 1st prize winner manipulation
at the FISM in Madrid 6 years ago. The act seems to have grown since
then. He manipulates with cards only, and with music he has found a
perfect ballance. His giant Card manipulations are unbeleivable.
Last was Paul & Anja Phillipard from Holland. Paul is illusionist
and does a crystal box, metamorphosis, and ends with a girl slced in
many pieces. This idea from Franz Harary has been further developed
by Paul and to my opinion improved. However the idea remains as
Harary brings it, and Paul is currently in a copyright battle with
Harary & Manager.
So this end day 1.....and now upto a bar....
See you tommorrow.....
---
* Origin: MAGIC!-NL, Home of the wizards, +31-23-388725 (2:0/0)
Msg #8255 Dated 1:11:53 07-09-91 8180 <--> 8270
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I've just re-read your message, Max. Are you saying that we should
explore/discuss the generic issue of rights and restrictions in the
context of appropriateness rather than in the context of law?
Msg #8261 Dated 7:02:16 07-09-91
From: ELLEN TUNKELROTT
To: PETE BIRO
Re: HOWDY!
Hi Pete. I finally got a modem and on this system. I thought I'd send
you a note of hello. There you go...
Msg #8262 Dated 7:03:36 07-09-91
From: ELLEN TUNKELROTT
To: TABBY CRABB
Re: HOWDY!
Hey Tabby, I finally got on the system, and I thought a word of hello
would be a nice thing. So. Hey, what's kickin'. It was good to have
met everyone in Baltimore last week. Later...
Msg #8263 Dated 7:06:27 07-09-91 8207 <--> 8277
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CUPS AND BALLS
I have known Mark for quite some time and I know that this book has
been the result of some 15 years of research and a lot of investment
of not only time but money on Mark's part. He gave me a good deal on
the combo of book and tape. The tape is only of interest from an
historical sense as it is composed entirely of film "previews" used
to advertise spook shows in the movie houses. The book is well done
and covers everyone that apparently ever did a spook show. I can't
imagine how Mark uncovered some of this information. Lots of other
books that I want to get, but rather than put 'em in a pile now, I
will wait a bit until I have some time to look at 'em when I get 'em.
If you don't FAX the Boston letter to JN, I will. Just think, maybe
someday folks will be buying letters you or Dale wrote to someone.
Msg #8264 Dated 7:06:59 07-09-91 8209 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
...and Karrell Fox could probably give you the address of the old
Abbott's store that was in Detroit.
Msg #8265 Dated 7:07:06 07-09-91 8210 <--> 8268
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BIROSAN
...even the Biro-san doesn't know what path lurks in his future. Do
we know, in fact, that he will actually go to FISM? It could be an
off road race in the Alps!
Msg #8266 Dated 7:07:16 07-09-91 8212 <--> 8269
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
The South American Poison Arrow Frog is beautiful and had you
ventured out of the hotel in Ballamo and crossed the street to the
Aquarium, you could have seen the little beast and a bunch of his
buddies in the tropical rain forest atop the aquarium. Brilliant
colors and deadly!
I always endeavor to keep a little reality in the Biro ones life,
otherwise he might fall right off the fringe.
Msg #8267 Dated 7:07:35 07-09-91 8213 <--> 8282
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Yes...I read Stan's comments with considerable interest. Gad, I am
going to miss Inside Magic and the timeliness element that I fear
will be lost in the new publication. I understand from some insiders
there is MUCH resistance to the Japanese FISM, it will be interesting
to see if Japanese money and promises of plane loads of Europeans can
win the day for them.
Thus far, the only I.B.M. convention held outside the North American
Mainland was the 1983 Convention in Hawaii. Howsomever, after the
1992 Convention in Salt Lake City on July 1,2,3,4, you can pack your
bags for the 1993 I.B.M. Convention in Quebec City, Canada on June 30
July 1,2, & 3, 1993. That will be the first I.B.M. Annual Convention
to be held outside the U.S.A. In 1994, we will be in Orlando.
Msg #8268 Dated 7:08:05 07-09-91 8226 <--> 8278
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BIROSAN
You wanna borrow that old, antique 286 again?
(seriously, it sounds like trouble city in puterland!)
Msg #8269 Dated 7:08:13 07-09-91 8227 <--> 8271
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
I think you guys are gilting the amphibian.
Msg #8270 Dated 7:08:19 07-09-91 8232 <--> 8273
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Joe will be back from FISM in a couple of weeks and the Board will be
having a small "site visit" to Vegas around the third week in August
at which time we should be pinning down some of the details for the
close up convention (if it is to be repeated) and next year's DMS.
We are presently toying with having not only a comedy stage contest
with submission of tapes to determine entry, but also a close up
contest with about six finalist. Problem is trying to determine how
the final six are selected. Most Close Up guys don't have tapes.
With referrals, we could end up judging the referrers. Any ideas?
One of the special treats that looks like a go for the DMS is a back
stage tour of the S&R stage!
Thanks for giving tabman the dealer info. It is interesting to see h
ow many actually make both IBM and SAM conventions. I am convinced
it is largely a myth regarding how many folks (including dealers)
actually attend both. I only see three or four overlapping dealers
and one of those is the "B" unit, as the "A" unit of Collector's
Workshop (Nick) went to FISM.
Msg #8271 Dated 7:11:13 07-09-91 8227 <--> 8280
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Scot York has a version also of the Frog Trick in his new lecture
notes and the handling is much the same. Scotty does it behind the
bar and the switch is excellent in this context. I enjoyed seeing
Mike Close work some at IBM and having Scot stop by and visit me
at the "sound boothe" during the comedy club day III. I appreciate
guys who say "thanks" when you send something their way. Course,
Scotty is my neighbor and what are neighbors for.
Msg #8272 Dated 7:11:24 07-09-91 8228 <--> 8283
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC!
I am curious as to how "computer magi types" look. Do they look
like Frog or a tabman. Cheeeez, I hope not. Maybe they look like
Burton or TA Waters? My guess, though, is that they are all handsome
like David Luther. Speaking of Luther, I'm hoping he shares with us
his experience being a "counterweight" for the Calvert Show the other
night in Balto.
Msg #8273 Dated 7:11:33 07-09-91 8232 <--> 8316
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Thanks David,
Looks like most of the larger dealers made both conventions. You had
some guys in Vegas I would have liked to have visited with. Byron
Books, I'm sure had some good stuff there. Would like to have seen
Bill Smith. His partner in the Carter stuff buyout, Mike Caveney was
in Balto selling off packets of the paper for $60. I bought one pack
just to make a contribution to their efforts. The packs contain
insignificant contract blanks, repro photos, and two sheets of Carter
stationery which is quite beautiful.
Msg #8274 Dated 7:11:47 07-09-91 8239 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: JERRY BURTON
Re: MORE PCAM
It was great seeing you in Baltimore. Am looking 4ward to the book
you are sending over. The "Spook Crooks" book is fun. I have a
nice copy of it here, but unautographed edition I got from Byron's
Books a while back. Talked to Jim Sisti and he said you dropped by
his restaurant and checked him out. Sounds like they put you through
the wringer on the way home, too bad you didn't get stranded in Balto
could have come and rescued you, or at least kept you company for a
while as my sked is still screwed up from IBM and am up early and
stay up late.
Msg #8276 Dated 7:56:30 07-09-91 -> 8284
From: MIKE KING
To: ALL
Re: INSIDE MAGIC
I understand that there is a "blurb" about myself in the current issue
of Inside Magic. I am new to the area and am not familiar where to
obtain a copy of it. I would however like to get one for my scrapbook.
If anyone could help me get a copy, I would greatly appreciate it.
Msg #8277 Dated 8:08:35 07-09-91 8218 <-
From: MICHAEL OVERLY
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CUPS AND BALLS
Thanks for the note. It's the same Raymond Corbin. God! I used to
live a few miles from him twenty years ago. Glad to hear he's doing
fine.
Msg #8278 Dated 10:19:55 07-09-91 8265 <--> 8279
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: BIROSAN
IN the Alps could be right - many of them are hollow! The Swiss have
a proclivity for self-protection and have tunnelled out enough space
INSIDE the Alps to create fallout shelters for the entire population
plus ALL of their railroad trains, etc. Guess we'll have to see if our
intreped MAGIC-NL reporters find the Biro-san at FISM.
Msg #8279 Dated 10:24:02 07-09-91 8268 <--> 8329
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: BIROSAN
Thank you for the offer of the 286, Bill. I've been able to get back
on-line by BUILDING a 386-33 on the floor. Now I need to coordinate
the transfer of all of the functions (specialized cards, etc.) from the
dead hulk, along with about 60 Meg. of data. And do the upgrade to
MS-DOS 5.0 as every time I try to run a program, a screen appears that
reads, "Notice: Your version of DOS 5.0 is OBSOLETE - Perform the
scheduled upgrade" (I've been running 5.0 for about 3 months in Beta).
Geez, but I HATE computers!
Msg #8280 Dated 10:31:09 07-09-91 8266 <--> 8281
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Ah! Had I known that the Poison Arrow Frog was there I might have spent
the $11.25 they wanted for entry to the Aquarium. As it was, on my one
venture beyond the hotel and the theater (with Ellen Tunkelrott) I
passed the Aquarium and headed for the shopping mall.
Msg #8281 Dated 10:36:52 07-09-91 8271 <--> 8287
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Wish I'd had a chance to spend some time with Scotty rather than just
say "Howdy." He is a great worker. Close says that his handling of
the Frog is different than Scotty's (as written up by Jamy Ian Swiss).
I have an idea for using the frog in a different context as well.
Msg #8282 Dated 10:49:03 07-09-91 8267 <--> 8288
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
I too will miss the current format of Inside Magic, although they are
indicating that some similar pages may appear as an insert in the new
magazine (MAGIC - An Independent Magazine for Magicians). Stan says
that they will have the shortest publication time of any current magic
magazine, so he hopes that articles, etc. will be timely. In that
conversation I suggested that he do a "tip in" of one or more "last
minute" pages and the brochure does mention a "special section of MAGIC
devoted to just the news," so, hopefully, some of the reporting from
Inside Magic will be preserved.
I'm looking forward to both Salt Lake City and Quebec City - guess I
have two years to brush up on my French.
Msg #8283 Dated 11:00:30 07-09-91 8272 <--> 8338
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGIC!
Yes, I'd like to see David Luther's "Backstage with Calvert" report.
It was really great to get a chance to spend time at IBM with so many
MAGIC! members. One evening David (Luther) and I spent a couple of
hours just talking and doing magic stuff - a couple of hours? We
finally quit at 3 a.m.
Msg #8284 Dated 11:06:28 07-09-91 8276 <--> 8289
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: INSIDE MAGIC
There is indeed a "blurb" about your part in the Moody Blues and Plain
White Rappers videos in the July issue of Inside Magic. I'm sure that
if you leave a private message for PATRICE MOORE here on MAGIC! she'll
be able to help you get a copy. Probably after FISM.
Msg #8287 Dated 11:29:27 07-09-91 8281 <--> 8291
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
The basic effect is the same. Both use cards folded to look like
frogs and both frogs turn into the selected card. The frog fold came
from a basic origami book but I don't know who first introduced it
to magic. What else is in those origami books of yours that could be
adapted to playing cards? You've given me an idea for the frog too
inadvertantly. Thanks, though with Mike Close and Scot York using
the idea it doesn't leave much room for anybody else. Have you shown
the card frog to Nathan? I've got both sets of Scot's lecture notes
and the colab with J.Ian Swiss is in an earlier one. His new notes
have his handling of the card rise and I understand that there is
additional documention about this effect available which I haven't
seen, though Scotty told me about it a few days ago.
Msg #8288 Dated 11:29:40 07-09-91 8282 <--> 8292
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
I am concerned about what impact the new magazine will have on the
Genii, which has been my faithful magic companion since I was a teen
ager (30 years). With many of the magic industries "heavies" joining
the writing staff of Magic, maybe Genii will be able to bring in the
newly creative while all these heavies may be battling it out in
the new forum. I just don't know. I don't want to see the Genii hurt
by this. I see the new Magic as potentially exciting and competition
can breed excellence and a "try harder" attitude. If you give enough
there's always enough to go around; sometimes more than one time
around.
Msg #8289 Dated 11:35:37 07-09-91 8284 <--> 8298
From: MIKE KING
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: INSIDE MAGIC
Thank you. I remember her asking me a few questions about this awhile
back but was unable to find out when it might be published. Thanks for
advising me, to tell the truth I had forgotten her name. I owe you
one. MIKE.
Msg #8291 Dated 12:06:13 07-09-91 8287 <--> 8297
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
I've found some good books on Origami in the Arts and Crafts sections
of general bookstores and in libraries. You tipped me to the
republished Harbin, which I found in just such a section (Harbin,
Robert, Origami, The Art of Paperfolding, New York: Harper and Row
[Copyright 1969 by Robert Harbin], ISBN 0-06-463496-5). There were
some very good books, originally produced for children, called "My
Origami Animals and Fishes," "My Origami Birds," and "My Origami
Flowers," printed on thick cardboard and distributed by Crown
Publishers (New York). These were produced in Japan by Zokeisha
Publications circa 1964. These have virtually no publication
information in them, other than what I just cited, and are anonymous.
The key to origami is learning the notation system. Like music,
origami has a generally defined notation (altered slightly in different
books but usually pretty consistent) for the various folds. Credit for
this notational system is generally given to Akira Yoshizawa and the
Harbin book has an excellent and through presentation of the notation
system as expanded upon by Harbin. Different authors will use
different symbols, etc., but once the basic concept is understood you
can understand their variations quite easily.
The Close and York frogs are Jumping Frogs and are simplified versions
of Frog variations that probably go back a thousand years or so. The
traditional frogs are more complex and do not lend themselves to card
work, although I do have some intermediate versions made from dollar
bills in my collection. Many of the classical animals, flowers, and
birds could probably be adapted to close-up work, using cards, bills,
or table napkins (Close, in Workers Number 1, has an origami bunny that
he makes from a cocktail napkin; he describes the source as a book
about dinner napkin folding but does not provide a specific citation).
Using cards, etc. (or, as I have, on occassion, magazine pages) limits
the complexity of the designs. The best work can be done with origami
paper, which is specifically made for the art. Origami paper is plain
on one side and colored on the other, and it comes in a wide variety of
sizes and colors. I carry a small pack with me in my "impromptu" kit.
It can be found in Japanese arts and crafts stores and probably in
other arts and crafts stores as well. Some books/kits come with a
small supply of origami paper.
There is a collateral field which has not been well explored by Western
magicians - Kirigami; the art of Japanese paper cutting.
Msg #8292 Dated 12:46:18 07-09-91 8288 <--> 8295
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
It is hard to predict the impact that MAGIC - An Independent Magazine
for Magicians will have on GENII. In this month's (July, 1991) issue
of Genii, Bill Larsen wrote "Stan Allen to convert 'Inside Magic' to a
full size magazine in September from what we hear. Others have tried.
Good luck, Stan. It sounds great until you realize you have to put a
64 to 80 page issue out every month. I'm sure, if anyone can do it,
you will and Dante and I feel that competition is always a good thing.
It makes us try even harder if that is possible."
GENII, with Dante's hand at the tiller, has become a SUPERB magazine.
In its long history, Genii has outlived many other magazines. My
personal suspicion is that both magazines will do well and that there
will be enough differences between them that most active magi will
subscribe to both.
Msg #8293 Dated 12:59:37 07-09-91 -> 8296
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: STAMPS
For those of you interested, it now looks like the Abbott & Costello
U.S. Postal stamp will become a reality on September 13th of this year!
Along with it will be stamps honoring Laurel & Hardy, Jack Benny and
Fanny Brice. MCA will also be releasing PARDON MY SARONG and IN THE
NAVY on videotape, finally!
'W.
Msg #8295 Dated 13:24:32 07-09-91 8292 <--> 8302
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
I have had an issue of Shpinx on my desk for the past few days. It's
open (Jan 39) to The Leipzig Pass and a Miracle Therewith. As I read
your message re: The new "An Independent Magazine For Magicians" I
see the same words emblazoned across the top of the Sphinx page...
An Independent Magazine For Magicians. On the Sphinx cover, the same
slogan. I am curious as to what typeface they've set "Magic" in. In
my opinion, The Sphinx was a great magazine, and one of which I never
grow tired of rereading since I always find something new to think
about, like right now with the use of the slogan dating at least
back to Sphinx days. I must go check Houdini's Conjurers. Is there
nothing new?
Msg #8296 Dated 13:24:44 07-09-91 8293 <--> 8300
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: STAMPS
Sounds like it's time to buy a few sheets of stamps for my special
correspondence in September. Can't buy too many though since they're
talking about going to 30 cents asap.
Msg #8297 Dated 13:24:50 07-09-91 8291 <--> 8303
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
I liked the bird you made in Baltimore. I haven't tried the frog yet
though I intend to do it one day soon. I'm in taking a break from the
heat of the wood steamer. Am building another work bench too but the
guys using the studio complained about the hammering since I'm in
the middle of moving part of the shop to the big room out there. The
table saw and bench sander pull too much juice in the house and it
gets a little scarey with the lights flickering, etc. The studio has
a modern 200 amp service so should make it safer.
Msg #8298 Dated 16:10:29 07-09-91 8276 <-
From: STAN LAKE
To: MIKE KING
Re: INSIDE MAGIC
If you find you have any difficulty getting a copy through Patrice just
let me know your address and I will send you my copy.
Msg #8299 Dated 17:28:53 07-09-91 -> 8304
From: TABBY CRABB
To: ALL
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
David Lichtman has put together a nice spiral bound book on how
to use and benefit from MAGIC!. He was selling them at the IBM
convention to help defray some of the costs of the system. The
cover is an original drawing of a somewhat surprised wizard
seeing MAGIC! pop onto his screen for the first time. As a
suggestion, some of you might want to order a copy from David.
All the system information is there in those 40 full sized pages
and your purchase could help defray some more of the costs. If I
recall, the book is $12 and I guess you should add some for
postage. The first edition is rapidly selling out due to the
demand at IBM, but I don't think there will be any problem
putting out more.
.
You want the book!, so send $12 + $2 shipping = $14 to:
.
MAGIC!
P.O. Box 900
Arleta, CA 91334.
.
Do it while you're thinking about it.
Msg #8300 Dated 18:00:47 07-09-91 8296 <--> 8308
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
Either that or stock up on the A&C 29-cent stamps and get a load of
PeeWee Herman 1-cent stamps!
'W.
Msg #8302 Dated 18:38:35 07-09-91 8295 <--> 8343
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Stan may have adopted the motto for sentimental reasons. Don't know
yet what thetypefaces on the magazine will look like.
Msg #8303 Dated 18:41:14 07-09-91 8297 <--> 8323
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
You triggered some research on my part and in a book by Isao Honda I
found a couple of interesting things. The Frog is not particularly
popular in Japan as it turns out that the word for Frog - KAERU - also
means "to return" or "to go home." Resturants and shops don't like to
send that message, so they prefer Cranes over Frogs! And Crabs are
among the most complex Origami designs.
My research also disclosed several alternate transliterations of
Arigato Goziamas, including my version, but I guess that is another
story...
Msg #8304 Dated 18:45:28 07-09-91 8299 <--> 8309
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
Thanks, Tabman! Life around here has been frantic and I didn't have a
chance to post the info about the new Passport to MAGIC! Appreciate
your taking the time to do it.
Msg #8305 Dated 18:46:38 07-09-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: FISM DAY 2 PT 1 OF 2
Direct from Switzerland, here's Arnaud...
Message #611 - Echomail MAGIC!-US
Date : 10-Jul-91 00:23
From : Arnaud Van.Rietschoten
To : Magic-Us
Subject : FISM report
Tuesday 09 July 1991
CLOSE UP COMPETITION
====================
Wow, starting at 08:00am so waking up at 07:15am, and my relatives
still call this a holiday. Start of close-up was unbeleivable
chaotic. The wireless mike not working, no videoscreen at other
rooms, etc...etc...
However we survived the first 20 competitors. Let me give you some
highlights.....:
Thomas Fraps (Germany): Showed good act with as gag that all his
props change into glass. Williamson 3 coin routine was basic of
act.
Simo Alto(Finland) appeared alerady successful during last FISM in
The Hague. He is working with jinglebells, produces very big coins
and ends with the production of a giant bell. He also does a cups
& balls routine with 3 bells. Got great reaction from the audience.
Makes good change as prize winner in close-up.
Gerry (Austria) Wearing jeans and drinking out of a coke can. Starts
doing dicestacking with this can. Has some funny stacking variations
and ends with the can closed again and containing coke. As finale
gives an encore doing stacking with jumbo cups (garbage can) and
large dice.
Bob Driebeek spoke the famous words that he should be disqualified
because such large cups do not fit in the micro competition.
Clerico (Italy) Has been honored by MAGIC!-NL with the R-O-D award
(Ripp-off of the Day). Heavily inspired by Rooco Silano, in a simi-
lar setting (pears, shells etc...).
David Yee (USA) was afected by the not working Mike, which disturbed
first part of his act. Does a good ring routine where the ring
is found inside a telephone Ring-Telephone....gottit???).
Shankar (India) Very young guy doing cups & Balls on floor. Due to
his young age very charming. Funny was his cops & Balls routine
was accompanied by Indian patter, which had many sound laughs.
Lennart Green (Sweden) Was honored with first standing ovation of
the convention. This enormeous technical skilled guy, did an in-
credible routine with many flourish discoveries. Personaly like
that he dribbled the deck on table....grabs inside the cardstream
and grabs the chosen card from the 'dribble'.
Ended with a completely shuffled deck, which became in perfect
Ace-King order again for each suit. Can't beleive it was a false
shuffle so must have done a deck switch...but saw absolutely
nothing.
Vanni Bossi (Italy)
Funny routines. Like chink-a-chink with real flaming coins.
Eric DeCamps (USA) gave a great show which was highly apreciated
by the watchers. Was the first time we saw him in Europe.
Did: Cups & Balls with as finaly production of Perrier bottle from
stack of cups. Also did 3 coins and cork in tube routine, and
finale ended with a goldbar production.
John Carney (USA) also had lots of laughs. Started with Blackhole
routine with appearing & vanishing Lemon, and finaly a glass of
lemon from the hole.
Did his bullits across as we saw at last FISM.
Next a funny routine where he catches a borrowed bill in between
2 chop-sticks. Ended with a telekinese routine where he mentally
lets a pencil draw a picture of someone. You see the pencil mys-
teriously moving over the pad. Lots of appause.
AFTERNOON STAGE COMPETITION
===========================
Since temperature is rising again in the showroom it was physi-
cally impossible for me to watch it all. I checked with some friends
and think the following acts are worth to be mentioned
The stage technians are still learning and _again_ mikes did not
work pauses between acts lasted too long. Unfortunately _again_
David Yee was victim. He entered in invention with his ring in
telephone. After the remarked his wireless did not work, they gave
him a mike on a stand. That stand fell over when the curtain opened,
so he had to keep the mike in his hand, put it down when doing
something.......when halfway in the act the techincian walked
on stage to give him another stand. David asked of there was still
a possibility to enter comedy.
I was a bit surprised that David also mentioned he managed to get
the telephone ringing, and presented it was a part of the invention
I think this invention more belongs to Thomas Edison.
Other topper was a french guy with great appearing/vanishing canes,
and a levitation as done by Pendragons with the girl twisting
around his body.
I also heart about an egyptian guy who entered in invention. He only
put his feet in his neck in stayed on stage like that.
(Continued in Part 2 - next message).
Msg #8306 Dated 18:48:03 07-09-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: FISM DAY 2 PT 2 OF 2
EVENING CLOSE UP GALA
=====================
The convention group was split in 2 parts. 1 group went on a boat on
the lake of geneva and our group had the close-up gala.
Another big mistake in planing took place here. The close gala was
held in one big hall, that was divided in 2, and both halves had
a close-up worker. However sound from group one was easily reaching
the spot of group 2. And with close-uppers like Tamariz and Williamson
you can imagine what decibels disturbed the other group. Am curious
to see how they solved this later this week when they have another
close-up gala.
Due to time limits (my friends are waiting in a bar....) I keep some
details of the gala for later.
MAX II story continued....
==========================
Tommy Wonder completed his detective work and found Mr. Max Maven
look-alike. Mr Clairmaont from France.
Upon asking him why he took so much trouble to look like Max, he
gave a half hour answer what if you did not know beter you would
agree on.
Basically he stated that he wanted to look like the devil, and
because both Mephisto and Max have some similarities, you get more
or less a same picture.
Tommy took much trouble in convincing him that he should try to
look much more different. We will see if we'll see/hear more from
him.
OTHERS
======
o David, I think my daily contact with MAGIC!-NL will probably be
between 0.00-1.00am Swiss time (9.00-10.00am LA time same day).
The primitive telephone system here at my Hotel only allows me to
have an outside line till 1.00 hrs. After that time the owner
leaves and no-one remains to operate the telephone system.
o Tabman. got your message will pass it to Michael.
o It's worthwhile to mention that new trends in magic has pushed
zombies and linking rings away. The whole afternoon we saw none
of that at all.
We think gliterdust has made its breakthrough...and good years
for the gltterdust producers have started.
o Saw for the first time Steve Fearson here in Europe. His floating
cigaret is really looking great. Think he is doing good business.
His routine lets the cigaret doing very original movements, it
floats away from him and floats into his mouth.
o In the dealer area TUCF gimmick was demonstrated. It has an invi-
sible thread on a motor. This lets you control the thread very
specific. You can walk away for 10 meters. the motor unrolls the
thread, and when you walk back the motor automatically keeps the
thread under tension, by taking it in again.
Available at Magic Vision, Box 14, 891 21 Ornskoldsvik, Sweden,
and sellsfor $200,-
---
* Origin: MAGIC!-NL, Home of the wizards, +31-23-388725 (2:0/0)
I sent the following to Arnaud...
Arnaud -
No messages to pass back to you yet - I think that the MAGIC!
members are still in shock and can't believe that this is really
happening! "Real-Time" coverage of FOUR conventions around the
World is incredible! Once FISM is completed, I am planning to put
together a file of all of the convention reports and will have it
for you - will try to upload it to MAGIC-NL, but, as you know, I
have not always been successful at that.
Your coverage of FISM is TERRIFIC! Keep up the good work!
Msg #8307 Dated 19:03:13 07-09-91 -> 8310
From: ROBERT CANSLER
To: ALL
Re: SORRY I WAS GONE FOR SO L
Hello guys,
I am back off the road for a bit, it has been pretty busy for me here
on the east coast the last couple of months worked my way down the
coast to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina at a book convention and then
over to Atlanta Ga and Nashville Tenn. then back up to Lake Placid,
between that and teaching magic and working with Jim Siste on the
Magic Menu. Its been busy, Oh yeh almost forgot I open my shop in
Maynard , Mass last month actually my daughter did it for me.
Now I know you are asking who in the heck is this guy, well I did check
in I believe last year before I went back on the Road, but the name
is Dr. Falconi and his Magical Medicine Show. or AKA Bob Cansler
C & C Magic and Theater Effects Co. Inc. 5 Elm Court Maynard Mass,
just thought I would through that in , Also, If the name sounds
familiar Yes that was my daughter you saw on the best of carson
last week on the tonight; can you figure that I work my tail off
and she gets on the show.
Anyway just thought I would check in and say Hello to every one
So I would not be forgotten.
Magically Yours
Bob aka Dr. FalconiC. aka
Dr. Falconi
Msg #8308 Dated 19:29:36 07-09-91 8300 <--> 8311
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: STAMPS
We make our own stamps! How about from my 3 acre country Ckraborg.
They have no value and we can put anybodies face, etc onem we want.
msYm-Ob*t+<_}<2 How about a Johnathan Winters stamp or a Max Maven
stamp? TA Waters?
Just paste em on next to the proper US postage.
Msg #8309 Dated 19:29:53 07-09-91 8304 <--> 8312
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
I had intended to post it earlier, but with sleeping for three days
and then taking that long to wake up after you MAGIC! people wore me
out first at Ckraborg and then Stauffer's I'm glad I finally got it
up on the system.
Msg #8310 Dated 20:41:00 07-09-91 8307 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ROBERT CANSLER
Re: SORRY I WAS GONE FOR SO L
Welcome back, Robert! Good to see you back on-line and I hope that all
is going well. Certainly sounds like you have been busy.
Msg #8311 Dated 20:42:13 07-09-91 8308 <--> 8328
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
Ckraybourg should apply to the U.N. for member status - after all, it
has all the perquisites - people, animals, water supply, golf course -
all the stuff that makes a nation great.
If they won't let you in, there is another tactic - go to war with the
U.S. and loose - then let 'em rebuild you.
I believe that San Marino, along with other countries, has made the
lion's share of its income for years from postage stamps. The Marshall
Islands do a blockbuster business in coins. Why not Craybourg?
Msg #8312 Dated 20:45:18 07-09-91 8309 <--> 8313
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
I guess we should point out that this is the NEW UP-TO-DATE version of
the Passport to MAGIC! Copies will be autographed on request.
Msg #8313 Dated 21:04:00 07-09-91 8312 <--> 8332
From: ELLEN TUNKELROTT
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
Yep, David, and I have the 1st copy signed! I'm so thrilled.
Msg #8315 Dated 21:39:58 07-09-91 8128 <--> 8349
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: NON-MAGIC CONVENTIONS
You got it. Although I don't at the moment. Maybe someone at tomorrow's
SAM #112 meeting will know....
Msg #8316 Dated 21:41:42 07-09-91 8130 <--> 8320
From: SCOTT CRAM
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Thank you very much for your explanation. The whole topic of copyright
will probably make for a long thread on MAGIC! here. As I first
listened to the discussion, it suprised me that he that the effect
rather n the method was calimed as the idea, but you've helped me
understand his point. As for the "disclaimer" comment, I generally
(albeit incorrectly) use that term for copyright notices and such.
Maybe that's a habit I should change
Moving from copyright to patent, a PCAM attendee mentioned to me that
yocan't patent a magic trick. The reason, they said, was nothing in
magic is new, just a variation of something old. As an example, he
stated that's why Kevin James is marketing "It's Alive" as a toy and
not an effect, so that he could patent it. Is this true? It seems li
you should be able to patent an illusion/effect. Once again thanks for
your clarification on the copyright issue, Max.
Msg #8318 Dated 22:25:49 07-09-91 6614 <--> 8319
From: JOHN JOLLY
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: CARDS & WEBBER
Had a feeling that was the case. Thanks. Will you or others provide
a review? (refering to "Lifesavers")
Msg #8319 Dated 22:27:26 07-09-91 6651 <--> 8325
From: JOHN JOLLY
To: PETE BIRO
Re: CARDS & WEBBER
Just ordered Workers (the original)...I'm hangin' on for #2. Can you
Synopsize? (Can he say that?)
Msg #8320 Dated 22:27:54 07-09-91 8316 <--> 8322
From: MAX MAVEN
To: SCOTT CRAM
Re: SAM DAY 1
I am hardly an expert on patent law, but my understanding of it is that
the only thing you can patent is a new mechanical construction. Very
few magic inventions fall into that category, even in the most general
definition.
The statement that Kevin James can patent "It's Alive" as a toy but
not as a magic trick is absolute nonsense, and that should tell you
something about whoever told you this which may make you wish to
reconsider anything else he/she may have opined.
Msg #8322 Dated 22:30:41 07-09-91 8255 <--> 8333
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Okay, I'll try one more time. My feeling is that, realistically, most
people do not use the law as a basis for determining behavior. (Just
count up the number of xeroxed books, dubbed audio- or videocassettes,
&c. you may own, to say nothing of the number of times you've hopped
past the speed limit when no one was looking. Add various legal
restrictions regarding private conduct -- sex and drugs and so on --
and you'll understand my point.) Thus, I think it is not particularly
helpful to begin a discussion of inventor's rights by considering the
legal precedents.
This is all the more true because the copyright laws, as with so
many aspects of U.S. law, are sloppy and often not very workable.
Thus, my contention is that this discussion should concentrate on
basic moral and ethical concepts. If the law is to be dragged into the
discussion, it should be much further down the line, _after_ the
situation has been explored more thoroughly without being complicated
by legalistic red herrings.
Msg #8323 Dated 22:36:29 07-09-91 8291 <--> 8324
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
It's worth noting that there is a body of existing material, much of it
in print, which combines origami with magic. For starters, Martin
Lewis, Shigeo Futagawa, Michael Close, Michael Weber, Rick Johnsson,
and most notably Robert Neale.
There are others, but these are the ones who come to mind.
Msg #8324 Dated 22:38:01 07-09-91 8303 <--> 8341
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
There are two accepted systems for transliterating Japanese, both quite
similar. In neither is it possible to render "gozaimasu" as "goziamas."
Your lopping off of the final u is vaguely legitimate, as in spoken
Japanese that sound is usually clipped. But your spelling would be
pronounced "go-zee-ah-mahs," and the word is correctly pronounced
"go-zah-ee-mahs(u)" -- so there.
Msg #8325 Dated 22:40:59 07-09-91 8318 <-
From: MAX MAVEN
To: JOHN JOLLY
Re: CARDS & WEBBER
Not a review, but a brief assessment: the book is terrific, and
provides exactly what it promises -- strong, practical material that
can be prepared in a few moments using commonly available items.
Regarding the usage restrictions, although I think Weber's terms are
more restrictive than necessary, they are not likely to get in the way
of most purchasers' needs. The material is designed to be used when you
wish to do an impressive performance and have not brought your usual
equipment with you. Few of the book's buyers are going to want to use
this material in their standard acts, or have the opportunity to
present it on television. And, if such desire exists, they have the
option of contacting Michael Weber and working out an agreement. My
guess is that, should someone have the honesty (and courtesy) to do
this, they'll find that Michael is very easy to deal with.
Msg #8327 Dated 22:45:38 07-09-91 -> 8334
From: MAX MAVEN
To: SYSOP
Re: FISM
When you next contact Arnaud, would you please ask him to convey my
regards to Bob Driebeek, one of the few significant reasons I wish I
were attending this year's FISM. Also, let Tommy Wonder know that I'm
amused to learn of his encounter with Clairmont, and sorry to learn
that he had to listen to this guy rationalize for half an hour!
Msg #8328 Dated 23:03:42 07-09-91 8308 <--> 8330
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
How about a Terrance Stamp stamp?
Mebbe we could make up our own fictional folks to put on stamps...
...how about Stampy Davis, Jr.?
'W.
Msg #8329 Dated 1:01:00 07-10-91 8241 <--> 8339
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BIROSAN
If it is running naked on your floor, you have several options. I for
one, recommend telling it to slow down, and throw some clothes on.
Msg #8330 Dated 1:19:14 07-10-91 8308 <--> 8331
From: EVAN KATZ
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
Can you really do this? Put your own stamps next to the US ones?
Doesn't this give the US Postal Service scanners heart attacks? Ands
possibly slow down your mail?
Msg #8331 Dated 6:25:18 07-10-91 8311 <--> 8335
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: STAMPS
Problem is, if I tell em that this is considered to be an indie
country they'll know for sure that I'm dangerous - or at least
deluded. Any ideas for a flag design?
Msg #8332 Dated 6:25:24 07-10-91 8312 <--> 8337
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
I know you're busy restoring data, computer, etc right now from the
quake, but any timeline on the set of diskettes with the entire
message base contained thereon?
Msg #8333 Dated 6:25:30 07-10-91 8322 <--> 8356
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Exactly the point. It is a moral and ethical issue and will not
change as long as the public bent is toward this form of behavior.
There are, might I point out, a number of ethical persons involved
in magic. Perhaps through such discussions this number will multiply.
Msg #8334 Dated 6:25:37 07-10-91 8327 <--> 8346
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: FISM
Was interesting to note the number of clone types wandering around
the convention hall emulating their "heros" in dress, haircut, etc.
Used to see this alla time at music events; though Clairmont sounds
a little more serious. At the IBM I saw a clone Blackstone, Jr,
clone Tamariz, clone Howie, clone Carney and a number of people
just standing around waiting for somebody else to come up with a
good idea.
Msg #8335 Dated 6:25:47 07-10-91 8328 <--> 8336
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: STAMPS
Put out stamps featuring close-up workers, mentalists, and book
dealers; plus stamps featuring favorite props.
Msg #8336 Dated 6:25:52 07-10-91 8330 <--> 8359
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: STAMPS
The Charlotte Hall post office is a class B and all mail outa here is
hand cancelled. Far as I know, the scanners pick up the zip, not the
postage. Give me your address and we'll give it a shot. I've got a
lot of foreign stamps and I'll pop one on a letter to Evan. BTW, ther
is a guy who claims he's Evan Katz who was at the IBM Convention. He
is a big guy too so Burton and I didn't argue with him. Gimme yo
address and we'll give it a shot!!!
Msg #8337 Dated 9:19:21 07-10-91 8313 <--> 8347
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ELLEN TUNKELROTT
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
Yes! You are actually the possessor of the FIRST autographed copy!
Oh, you may not thing much of it now, but just wait until some
collector offers you big money for it years from now.
Msg #8338 Dated 9:20:38 07-10-91 8272 <--> 8354
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGIC!
Nobody or nothing looks like a Frog or a Tabman! (which is probably
why you didn't see any Frog or Tabman Clones at Balimo)...besides I
am not sure "...computer magi types..." really have a physical
appearance, they may only exist in an electronic ether state. The
forms that you can see don't exist on the BBS!
I also eagerly await the report of the counterweights!
Msg #8339 Dated 9:20:57 07-10-91 8278 <--> 8340
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BIROSAN
Wonder where they gonna hide their watches and chocolate? Maybe they
plan on selling all of it before the end.
I am beginning to wonder where our Biro-san is? I would have thought
the Dutch branch would have bumped into him by now. Ask David to
check by Joe Steven's booth and ask if they have seen Pete.
Msg #8340 Dated 9:21:11 07-10-91 8279 <--> 8355
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BIROSAN
Yes...would that something related to the great computer beast would
not be obsolete the moment you buy it!
I bought DOS 5.0 two weeks before the convention and STILL haven't
had a chance to install it. Presently, the "puter room" is filled
with boxes of registration debris from Baltimo and preregistrations
for SLC. Maybe this weekend.....
Msg #8341 Dated 9:21:27 07-10-91 8280 <--> 8342
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Yes...entry to the Aquarium is not cheap! Howsomever, it is one of
the outstanding of the world's aguariums (aguari??).
Well...I guess you got to revisit Baltimore and see Little Italy, the
Lexington Market, Fell's Point, and the Orioles. If you like trains,
then I could throw in the transportation museum in the old B&O round
house.
Start now...next year in SLC the thing to do is to visit the "Root
Cellar" (thats what the locals call the Genealogical Library). The
Church of LDS maintain what is possibly the world's greatest
repository of genealogical records and literature and also sell a
very reasonably priced and excellent program for doing your own
family tree. I got it last year and have been putting in some of my
ancestors in preparation for a revisit during next year's convention.
I will bet you could even look up the Frogs of the world there. I
know Tabman can find many of his forebearers.
Msg #8342 Dated 9:22:04 07-10-91 8281 <--> 8344
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
All you got to do is get yourself back to the right coast for
another visit...only this time do it while there are no conventions
so I don't get stuck stuffing registration envelopes instead of en-
joying Brunswick stew and good company.
Msg #8343 Dated 9:22:17 07-10-91 8282 <--> 8345
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
Stan may try to retain the timliness feature, but I don't believe it
will be possible with a larger publication. Inside Magic was unique
and filled a vacant niche in magicland by telling you what was going
on NOW! I regret that he has decided to change to another slick
magazine with tricks.
Msg #8344 Dated 9:22:31 07-10-91 8287 <--> 8350
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
You have "both sets" of Scotty's notes? There are more than two sets
of York lecture notes. Tell me what titles you got, maybe I still
some extra copies of the older ones about. Howsomever, you will have
to be patient as I don't know where they are and the garage is still
full of boxes from the move.
Msg #8345 Dated 9:22:46 07-10-91 8295 <--> 8351
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
What happen to the find the report of the first magic lecture in
Sphinx project?
Msg #8346 Dated 9:22:54 07-10-91 8334 <--> 8352
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FISM
Maybe they will start a Conjuroring Clones Convention. I bet they
make heavy use of mirrors in their performances. Howsomever,
methinks the Tabman is unclonable.
Msg #8347 Dated 9:20:47 07-10-91 8332 <--> 8353
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
ARGH! (Copyright 1991 by Pete Biro, All rights, including performance
rights, reserved). The plan was to place the first year's files -
MAGIC-01 through MAGIC-20 on diskettes. We're working on it. The
message files ARE available, just the computer power is a bit complex
at the moment.
Msg #8349 Dated 9:27:53 07-10-91 8315 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: SCOTT CRAM
Re: NON-MAGIC CONVENTIONS
Thanks! I'm interested in finding out more about Juggling and Clown
conventions and about Juggling and Clown magazines, etc. Any info will
be appreciated.
Msg #8350 Dated 9:56:26 07-10-91 8344 <--> 8357
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BILL WELLS
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Well, I have the "new" notes with the ghost BW intro and the notes
in colab with JISwiss. I've only heard whispers of the great stuff
you used to do with Scot's notes.
Msg #8351 Dated 9:56:32 07-10-91 8345 <--> 8372
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BILL WELLS
Re: CONVENTIONS
I talked to jayMarshall. Jay told me that lecturers were plying the
trade as early as 1909-10. He suggested going back and looking up
those years in Shpinx. My Sphinx file is relatively complete during
the 1930s and am currently filling in the early years as well as the
final issues. When I've finished going through everything I will file
a report. There were plenty of magicians gatherings going on in the
30s and do know that the conclave nomenclature was used during that
by gone day. I have located a copy of Tarbell's first lecture notes
and hope to get a look at those too. I'd like to hear from Max also
on the criterion he used to designate the term "modern" since there
must be a catch to this someplace. His question has cost me much time
but now I'm hooked and am looking for it as spare time allows.
Msg #8352 Dated 9:56:45 07-10-91 8346 <--> 8364
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BILL WELLS
Re: FISM
At a Willie Nelson concert one night I started noticing all these
women dressed like Willie's sister Bobbi who plays piano with him.
Then I noticed all these guys running around with Jack Gwynne beards
dressed in black looking like Paul English - Willie's drummer/partner
Then guys dressed like pig ranchers trying to look like Bea Spears
the bass player. When I saw a Howie Schwarzman clone walking through
the room I did a double take. It's just like rock and roll which is
like the big top so it's great to relate without debate.
Msg #8353 Dated 9:56:54 07-10-91 8347 <--> 8373
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
I figured since U didn't have anything to do and you loved computers
so much you'd be looking for another project.
Msg #8354 Dated 9:56:59 07-10-91 8338 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BILL WELLS
Re: MAGIC!
The point is that to most real users it is an internal thing. You
can't judge a book by it's cover, especially if it isn't a book at
all.
Msg #8355 Dated 9:57:05 07-10-91 8339 <--> 8368
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BILL WELLS
Re: BIROSAN
I too have been looking for word of Biro on Arnaud's reportage and
think perhaps he'll show up today. Looks like the FISM coulda used
a couple of the IBM show crews.
Msg #8356 Dated 9:30:25 07-10-91 8322 <--> 8389
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Max! I am shocked and saddened that you would EVER think that I would
disobey the law, or that I might have copies of books, cassettes, etc.
around. OK, maybe now and then I edge over the speed limit a bit, but
that is about it. Laws regarding sexual conduct have pretty much
always baffled me and, frankly, I've never understood the state's
concern with private sexual conduct - I've always assumed that they
were designed to provide a vehicle for entertainment for otherwise
bored legislators, judges and police. Drugs are a different matter,
due to the hazards they create for society and individuals (drunken
driving, for example). Be that as it may, an expostulation of my
personal views is not germane to the issue - suffice it to say, I
undertand your point.
I am perfectly willing to separate the law from a discussion of ethics
and morality, but I also suspect that transfers the discussion
from the realm of the pragmatic to that of the abstract.
As a matter of fact, as I'm writing this, I'm having great difficulty
creating that separation. The examples I would like to use still seem
to end up including words like "property," "transfer," and "ownership."
So I'm afraid that I'm going to have to present my examples using those
terms - perhaps you can convert them for me:
Problem One: You (generic) give, sell, license, or transfer an effect
to me. When do your rights end? Can I sell it to another individual
when I'm no longer interested in using it?
Problem Two: Can I modify it without your consent? Example: Assume
for the moment that I am the Pope (!), can I order that Michelangelo's
David be draped? Painted?
I look forward to your consideration of these issues.
Msg #8357 Dated 10:10:01 07-10-91 8323 <--> 8358
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Thank you very much for those references to origami with magic, Max.
I really appreciate your information and await the reopening of the
Castle library.
Msg #8358 Dated 10:13:29 07-10-91 8324 <--> 8360
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
OK, I will never forget "U," even if it is unspoken. I have, however,
seen it in print as "goziamas."
I was very intrigued that you preferred learning a language from texts
rather than from cassettes, since I have always preferred audio-visual
materials over print for both languages and for visual skill mastery
(such as learning sleights). Certainly there are different learning
styles, but I would like to read more about your approach and why you
selected it.
Msg #8359 Dated 10:27:32 07-10-91 8335 <--> 8366
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
I'm kinda partial to stamps honoring
actor-comedian-magicians....especially those with W.P. as their
initials.
'W.
Msg #8360 Dated 10:19:06 07-10-91 8341 <--> 8361
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
I did at least get to one of your sites in Baltimore - had diner at
about 1 a.m. in Little Italy. Sometime when you are in Los Angeles,
I'll have to show you some of our prominent sites (Yes! There is more
to L.A. than the Magic Castle!) - let's see... there's.... well,
there's... uh, er, The La Brea Tar Pits! The Rodia Towers! The
Vazques Rocks! and, er, well, I forget.
If the convention in Salt Lake City is anything like the one in
Baltimore, I doubt that I will get a chance to visit the "Root Cellar."
On the other hand, I've been told that the Church of LDS has a great
deal of respect for my family since it is one of the ones mentioned in
the Bible (not an Adam and Eve joke, I'm a Levite). Come to think of
it, I guess that I was named Frog because I was also a Plague!
Msg #8361 Dated 10:32:41 07-10-91 8342 <--> 8391
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Will definitely have to plan another visit to your neighborhood. In
addition to you, Tabman, York, etc. and incredible Brunswick Stew,
there is also the Library of Congress - one of the three great places
in the World to visit (the other two, in my opinion, are the British
Museum and the computer room at Dialog Information Services. There
would have been four if the Library at Alexandria hadn't been sacked).
Msg #8362 Dated 10:37:00 07-10-91 -> 8374
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: ALL
Re: STORY
Front page story about the Magic Castle in the Metro section of today's
LOS ANGELES TIMES.
'W.
Msg #8364 Dated 10:39:51 07-10-91 8327 <--> 8365
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: FISM
Will pass your note on to MAGIC-NL this afternoon. Arnaud will
probably pick it up a few hours later.
Msg #8365 Dated 10:41:29 07-10-91 8334 <--> 8379
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FISM
Tab -
Do you think there is any truth to the rumor that next year green
pants, pink shirts and long hair will be all the rage at IBM?
Msg #8366 Dated 10:43:38 07-10-91 8331 <--> 8367
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
Are you suggesting that they don't already know that you are dangerous
and deluded? Heck, from what I saw, you are the only guy in the
neighborhood that drives a motorized vehicle! Everyone else that I saw
go by was walking, in a wheelchair (the Veteran's Home group) or riding
a buggy (the Amish contingent).
Flag design for Ckraybourgue would be complex given all that the
country is known for. Maybe just a picture of the Tabman and Gloria?
Gloria could be holding a rifle. Ergh! (not a copyright term!), that
wouldn't account for the dogs and other denizens. At least you've got
two problems solved - no trouble writing the National Anthem or in
recruiting the army!
Msg #8367 Dated 10:58:26 07-10-91 8359 <--> 8376
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: STAMPS
Geez, I didn't think anyone was that dedicated to the memory of Walter
Piston (B: 1894)!
Msg #8368 Dated 10:59:29 07-10-91 8329 <--> 8369
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: BIROSAN
One specifically does NOT tell a 386-33 to slow down! (Actually, one
does, but only under special circumstances). I'll work on the clothes
after I finish the surgery.
Msg #8369 Dated 11:05:34 07-10-91 8339 <--> 8370
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS
Re: BIROSAN
Watches and chocolate provide interesting insight into the workings of
the Swiss communal mind - too long to go into here, but a very
interesting topic.
I believe it was the Biro's intent NOT to try to log on directly from
Switzerland due to the vagaries of the Swiss electrical and telephone
systems. I believe that he is planning on filing his reports when he
returns. I will pass your message on to Arnaud and have him check up
on Pete.
Msg #8370 Dated 11:09:56 07-10-91 8340 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS
Re: BIROSAN
Upgrading computers is still easier than trading cars or remodeling the
house! Don't feel bad about not having done the upgrade yet - up until
the catastrophy, I was still using PC Tools 5.5 Beta! And I'd already
produced materials for 6.0 and 7.0!
Msg #8371 Dated 11:13:12 07-10-91 -> 8375
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC VIDEO
Does anyone on the BBS know where I can RENT a wide screen TV by the
day. in the Los Angeles area.?
Msg #8372 Dated 11:14:32 07-10-91 8343 <--> 8388
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS
Re: CONVENTIONS
We'll just have to see what Stan comes up with. "Slick magazine with
tricks?" - you could do almost any combination with those words and
still come up with something interesting!
Msg #8373 Dated 11:16:47 07-10-91 8353 <--> 8381
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
Hard to believe that you have logged in and out a couple of times while
I've been going thru this morning's messages! Yes, I'm bored to tears
and looking for something to do... Was almost ready to put up new
wallpaper just so I could watch it dry.
Msg #8374 Dated 11:18:11 07-10-91 8362 <--> 8377
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: STORY
Thanks for the info, Wayne! Someone called me at about 7:30 a.m. to
tell me about it, but I haven't seen the paper yet. I get it after my
neighbor across the street is finished with it.
Msg #8375 Dated 11:19:30 07-10-91 8371 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DARRELL MURPHY (X)
Re: MAGIC VIDEO
You might call MARVIN STERN at Birns & Sawyer (213-466-8211). Marvin
isn't in this week, but JOE might have a lead. There are some
Audio-Visual houses in Los Angeles that rent such things by the day -
I haven't tried these particular places, but you might call ARC TV &
VCR in Burbank (818-848-9998) or TOWARDS 2000 in North Hollywood
(818-769-5622). There is a place in Hollywood that I used to deal
with, but can't remember its name at the moment.
Msg #8376 Dated 12:32:56 07-10-91 8367 <--> 8380
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: STAMPS
...and you were right!
'W.P. ... (The OTHER one!)
Msg #8377 Dated 12:35:11 07-10-91 8374 <--> 8384
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: STORY
It's a curious "Non-Story" story. Why they chose that particular week
with those particular performers to attend and write up the Castle is
indeed a head-scratcher.
'W.
Msg #8379 Dated 13:08:08 07-10-91 8365 <--> 8385
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FISM
I've been thinking about getting some of those green pants myself.
I'll have a pink cap on instead so you can find me.
Msg #8380 Dated 13:08:13 07-10-91 8366 <--> 8383
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: STAMPS
No pictures of tabman on the flag. A laughing dog, a screaming parrot
a fan of cards, a hand holding a snake with no head, a 300 meter
rifle, and some ribs all on a red shield with a lightning bolt thru
all on a field of blue. Our motto, "Better to die on your feet than
to live on your knees."
Msg #8381 Dated 13:08:21 07-10-91 8373 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
It's hot in the shop and I just came upstairs to have a smoke and
cool off with some iced tea.
Msg #8382 Dated 13:12:44 07-10-91 -> 8386
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: ALL
Re: SIMPLY GREEN!
I'd like to say a few words in defense of Dr. Lennart Green,
performer at FISM. Our friend Arnaud seemed a little too hasty
rationalizing the last of Lennart's effects, speculating that
he used a deck switch. The reason he didn't see a deck switch
was that there wasn't one.
Actually, it's that he's SIMPLY THAT GOOD!
I had the pleasure of attending his first U.S. performance/
lecture at Joe Steven's and Geno's Close-up Convention held last
year. Lennart showed phenominal skill with a deck, causing cards
to appear and vanish at will, entire stacks change colors, and
(what caused this message) arrange themselves back into suits.
This was all explained in his Lecture, using his own techniques
apparently unheard of in this country.
I wish Dr. Green the best of luck at FISM, and I believe he truly
deserved the ovation he received.
David Van Vranken
Msg #8383 Dated 13:15:32 07-10-91 8380 <--> 8387
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
If that had been the concept presented to Betsy Ross, she'd STILL be
sewing! Have I ever mentioned my family's crest and motto? The crest
is a pair of crossed polo mallets and the motto is "With mallets toward
none." (Actually, that is a PLAGERIZED line - I think it came from the
book "My Brother Was An Only Child").
Msg #8384 Dated 13:18:23 07-10-91 8377 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: STORY
I still haven't seen the Magic Castle story - my neighbor has some
visitors today and hasn't sent the paper over yet.
Msg #8385 Dated 13:19:48 07-10-91 8379 <--> 8397
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FISM
Did you notice that there was ANOTHER GUY at IBM with a pink cap?
Guess he was trying to be a Tabman clone. I have a pink cap but it is
a shade that clashes with my pink shirts.
Msg #8386 Dated 13:22:21 07-10-91 8382 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SIMPLY GREEN!
Thanks for your message about Dr. Green. I'll be passing it on to
Arnaud, via MAGIC-NL, in a few minutes.
Msg #8387 Dated 14:26:30 07-10-91 8380 <--> 8395
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
Simple, but elegant.
'W.
Msg #8388 Dated 16:45:03 07-10-91 8343 <-
From: MAX MAVEN
To: BILL WELLS
Re: CONVENTIONS
I'm perplexed by your comment. How do you know that this new
publication will be "another slick magazine with tricks" ??
Msg #8389 Dated 16:46:06 07-10-91 8356 <--> 8405
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I thought I had explained my position on this in some detail already.
Perhaps even sysops sometimes miss reading messages. At any rate, my
view is simply that the creator of the work has the right to define the
terms under which it is used by others. Thus, the answer to Problem One
is that my rights do not end, and your ability to re-sell the effect is
mine to dictate. So, in answer to your question, "Can I sell it to
another individual," first you've got to find out the rules set down
when you obtained it.
As for Problem Two, the answer is no, in the case of a set work
(i.e., painting, film, book, script). Most magic effects are created in
a deliberately open-ended format as far as presentation, and thus are
expected to be modified.
Msg #8391 Dated 16:52:11 07-10-91 8358 <--> 8394
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
You may have seen it in print as "goziamas," but if so it was either a
typo or a mistake. It's really quite simple: in Japanese, as in
Italian, there is only one way to pronounce any vowel. Thus, i is
always "ee," and a is always "ah."
Even if someone did not know this, and presumed that i could be
pronounced "eye," the result of the spelling you offer would be
"go-zigh-ah-mas" -- which just isn't how the word is pronounced.
The reason I prefer written materials to taped ones is that with a tape
you are stuck moving in the sequence in which the information is
presented, unless you want to hassle with constant rewinding, pausing,
etc. The printed page, by contrast, allows you to jump back and forth
with the merest flick of an eye, which to me is far more functional.
The only value of tape in the case of language learning is in terms
of hearing the words pronounced correctly. In my own case, I was lucky
enough to get the hang of that aspect of spoken Japanese from the
outset, and so started off with an unusually good accent. Thus, there
is no advantage to listening to tapes; when I see a Japanese word on
paper, I can pronounce it correctly.
While on the subject of print vs. tape, I'll mention that I consider
videotape to be a dreadful means for teaching magic, with a small
number of categorical exceptions. Print is far superior. Video is a
wonderful thing for recording performances for posterity, but as a
teaching means I think it's pretty bad.
Msg #8394 Dated 17:37:22 07-10-91 8391 <--> 8407
From: STAN LAKE
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
I'm not sure how many video tapes teaching magic you have seen Max but
I'll assume you've seen a few. Personally, I have found some of the
higher quality ones to better convey how a sleight should or shouldn't
look like far better than the printed page. Much more detail can be
grasped by seeing the teacher properly perform as well as explain what
he's teaching. Was it Biro who first said "A picture is worth a
thousand words"? I have soeen some poorly made videos that didn't
teach any MORE than a thin book could have and cost far more but
overall I think videos do a better job than the purely printed page.
Msg #8395 Dated 17:46:43 07-10-91 8330 <--> 8396
From: STAN LAKE
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: STAMPS
You can't legally put your own stamps next to US ones. It doesn't give
the scanners any problems as they are designed to either the address
line or the bar code printed on some business envelopes. It may or may
not slow down your mail but it might get it returned to you.
The official postal managers bible is known as the Domestic Mail Manual
which sets forth all of the rules and regulations for mailing anything.
Not that anyone cares but just to let you know section 142.32 titled
"Stamps Which Are Not Valid" subsection b. notes "Nonpostage stamps
(Migratroy-bird hunting and conservations stamps, U.S. saving and
thrift stamps, etc.) Section 142.61, titled Postage Stamps says
"Matter bearing imitations of postage stamps, in adhesive or printed
form, or private seals or stickers which are like a postage stamp in
form and design, shall not be accepted for mailing." And finally,
section 142.63, titled Permissible Seals and Stickers says- "Seals or
stickers which do not imitate postage stamps by having such
characteristics as words, numerals, or other markings which indicate a
value may be attached to other than the address side of mail."
So if you want to print your own stamps saying "Evan Katz the worlds
greatest magician, writer and quotation marks trouncer", that's ok as
long as it doesn't indicate a monetary value and it is stuck on the
flap side (back) of the envelope.
There you go, more than you ever wanted to know about home made stamps.
Msg #8396 Dated 18:07:38 07-10-91 8366 <--> 8398
From: STAN LAKE
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: STAMPS
I've missed something along the way here. How did Tabman's place come
to be known as Ckraybourge (and numerous other spellings)? What does
it mean? I hate it when everybody laughs and I don't get it!
Msg #8397 Dated 18:30:26 07-10-91 8385 <--> 8411
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FISM
I saw the pink cap. It was a nice one - from Hawaii, I think. My hat
is a vintage Nevada Bob.
Msg #8398 Dated 18:30:32 07-10-91 8383 <--> 8399
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: STAMPS
I think it would be fun to have a special flag made. Maybe with
the Cups and Balls on it, but I'd always feel like I was stealing
it now that I know it's on the stern of a magician's boat. I'vehinted
around that I'd like to use it, but maybe a guillitine will have to
do, or a card fan. One of those things to do if I ever chance upon
a custom flag shop.
Msg #8399 Dated 18:30:40 07-10-91 8387 <--> 8408
From: TABBY CRABB
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: STAMPS
Thank you.
Msg #8405 Dated 20:22:08 07-10-91 8389 <--> 8414
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I don't think I missed anything, but I take it, then, that your answer
to morality and ethics issues is simple - the creator owns it all and
each sale, license or whatever is up to that creator to negotiate.
Msg #8407 Dated 20:27:32 07-10-91 8391 <--> 8415
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Thank you for the information. I will put the goziamasu issue to rest
and will practice saying "Dodge Colt."
Audio tape is indeed a linear method, but that can sometimes be useful
if the creators have done a good job. I suspect that I am more of an
audio learner and I found language tapes to be very handy for use in
the car, etc. Also, since I tend to be more interested in the
conversational aspects, the pronounciation is important to me. On the
other hand, I've found some of the audio tape magic lessons to be a
horrible example of the use of the medium.
You've expressed your views on magic videotapes before and, frankly,
they baffle me. And given the volume of videotape sales, there would
seem to be a lot of people who disagree with you. Ron Bieber wrote a
summary and viewpoint article on our previous discussion of the use of
video and it is in the files area here on MAGIC!
There IS a medium which would probably be FAR SUPERIOR to videotape and
that is videodisc. Videodisc allows frame-by-frame stop action and
several other features, including superior quality, which I think would
be great for magic lessons. The problem is the need to produce
laserdiscs in fairly large quantities to distribute the mastering costs
and the small number of magicians who have laserdisc players.
Msg #8408 Dated 20:38:23 07-10-91 8395 <--> 8409
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE
Re: STAMPS
Interesting! Especially since, if Evan is so inclined, he can use a
postage meter which WILL print "Evan Katx, the World's greatest
magician, writer and quotation marks trouncer" along with the meter
imprint.
Msg #8409 Dated 20:39:47 07-10-91 8396 <--> 8410
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: STAN LAKE
Re: STAMPS
Actually, no-one seems to be sure of the spelling of Ckraybourgue, even
the Tabman. And I have no idea where it came from, other than from the
fertile mind of the Tab. Glad you've asked, since I'd like to know
too, but you've asked the wrong person. Perhaps the Tabman will be
kind enough to elaborate - the place was called the Hotel DeCarlo while
I was there.
Msg #8410 Dated 20:41:45 07-10-91 8398 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB
Re: STAMPS
Put the cups and balls on a flag on your front lawn and half of St.
Mary's County will be there to pawn stuff. How about a mystical symbol
- a pentagram should be real popular in your neighborhood.
Msg #8411 Dated 20:43:17 07-10-91 8397 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB
Re: FISM
I remember the vintage Nevada Bob. Now, let's see if YOU can remember
what is emblazoned on MY pink hat?
Msg #8414 Dated 22:16:59 07-10-91 8389 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN
Re: SAM DAY 1
Thankfully we have laws to prevent abuses possible under such a system.
'W.
Msg #8415 Dated 22:18:52 07-10-91 8391 <-
From: WAYNE POWERS
To: MAX MAVEN
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
On the subject of print vs. tape...
Yes, print is a far superior medium for teaching and learning magic.
Video, however, has its place and value. I think Gary Oullett and Guy
Camirand have hit upon a valuable usage with Gary's Close-Up Illusions
video. It's a reference video for use WITH the book, illustrating
the work of the book in live-action so the student can see how each
effect should look.
'W.
Msg #8416 Dated 22:40:11 07-10-91
From: PETE PERATA
To: PETE BIRO
Re: ROLLOVER ACES
Hi, I'm curious at that message you left me on your version of
"Rollover Aces". you said that you use a dck switch, and it's easier,
how so? Oh yes, Scott Cram said that you might possibly be at SAM 112,
hope to see you there.
Msg #8417 Dated 22:42:50 07-10-91
From: PETE PERATA
To: SCOTT CRAM
Re: WHATTZUP??
Hey! Well. although I did find the meeting place, I was late and
missed most of Minchillo's act. Plus now that I found the place we're
going to be meeting at the Hilton.AAAAAAARRRRRGGGGHHHHH!!!! Boy, I
don't know. Hey you gotta' show me that card house effect next
meeting, it sounds pretty interesting. Oh yea, when is the Comedy
Competion at SAM 112?
Well I guess I better go time is money, especially on a bbs!$$$$$$
Msg #8419 Dated 23:07:35 07-10-91
From: CHARLIE RANDALL
To: ALL
Re: MORE SAM NOTES
Thought I might add a couple of comments to David Vanvranken's
excellent report on the SAM convention in Las Vegas. I thought it was
a pretty good convention, not great but not bad. Some of the
highlights to me were the Eugene Burger lecture, the Baran's
Metamorphosis/Sub-trunk, a good but extremely short close-up show, and
some conversation with some good people.
Burger's lecture was the best thing to me. He discussed, in his
usual enlightening way, whether we want to learn new tricks or better
present the ones we know. Only bad part was that Gene seemed to end
early, almost as if he thought he was starting to lose the audience.
Too bad I'd have stayed until 3:00 in morning listening.
Stage shows dominated the convention. There was a two hour stage
show each of the four days. The stage competition, originally
scheduled for 3 hours, went for more than 4. LOTS of repetition -
please no more birds or snowstorm in China (not that I dislike them,
but I can only take so many of 'em). On the other hand, there was only
1 hour of professional close-up and 1 hour of close-up contest. The
contest was so-so, nobody seem to me to stand out. The professional
show was great if all too brief. It included Johnny Thompson (can the
Egg Bag be any more perfect?), Eugene Burger (and his fantastic
presentations), Mike Rogers, and Joyce Beck. I'd never heard of Joyce
Beck but she did a wonderful show (and was wonderful to look at, how I
love long blonde hair (sigh)).
The lectures for the most part were pretty good. Michael Ammar was
his usual fantastic self. The guys from Opus magazine were a lot of
fun. I spent some time with J.J. who kept me laughing. One lecture
was kind of disappointing - David Berglas. To me he came off too
"superior". He did a memorize deck routine in which he claimed to
memorize the order of a shuffled deck in less than 30 seconds. And
then peddled his memory book. Only problem was I caught him switch out
the shuffled deck. Oh well, the rest of the lecture had some very
interesting stuff.
Talked with Michael Weber and bought his lecture notes and a couple
of his brilliant tricks. Where does he come up with some of these
great ideas? He explained the disclaimer as saying that all it means
is perform the effects all you want but if you go to do them on TV or
some similar venue give him a call first to discuss it. And unless he
was planning on doing something similar there shouldn't be any problem.
All in all I had a good time, bought a few items, and didn't gamble!
Charlie
Msg #8421 Dated 23:44:44 07-10-91 8395 <--> 8422
From: EVAN KATZ
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: STAMPS
Stan -- WHOAH! Talk about knowledge!
Impressive!
-Evan
PS -- I'll bet you think this quotation mark thing is funny, don't you?
Msg #8422 Dated 23:46:58 07-10-91 8408 <--> 8438
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: STAMPS
Everyone thinks quotation marks are funny. I did to. Until I SAW ONE
MASSACRE A HOUSE PET!
Msg #8423 Dated 23:48:40 07-10-91 8347 <--> 8424
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
Do you think Pete might let me use ARGH! in an informal setting? And
if so, how do you define informal? How you you define setting? How do
you define. I'm sure when you do define, it's quite devine. Simple and
fine, like a bottle of good wine.
Msg #8424 Dated 23:50:48 07-10-91 8373 <--> 8465
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
Remember this wallpaper reference when you see "Barton Fink," coming to
theatres in August, winner of all the big Cannes awards.
Msg #8425 Dated 23:53:57 07-10-91 8414 <--> 8426
From: MAX MAVEN
To: WAYNE POWERS (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
No, we have some laws that can sometimes prevent some abuses.
Msg #8426 Dated 23:52:33 07-10-91 8356 <--> 8427
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Problem Two is generally covered by the First Sale doctrine. Generally
you cannot tell someone what to do with something after you've sold it
to them. There are obvious examples for things like cars, and maybe
guns, but it is my understanding that this is a pretty well-respected
and far-reaching doctrine. Unless anyone tells me otherwise, I would
say LEGALLY at least, this was an easy one. And I'd put that legal
finding alongside a moral one as well. Unless I'm presenting an effect
as "David Copperfield's Disappearing Nose," and I'm not he, I think I
DO have the right to alter and butcher and otherwise defame whatever
I've purchased.
Can't wait for the bullets to fly on this one. Erwhoops -- I just
ducked and missed being hit by one.
Msg #8427 Dated 23:56:20 07-10-91 8389 <--> 8442
From: EVAN KATZ
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Max--
Are you saying MORALLY that no one should have the right to change the
book/painting/film/book script? Or LEGALLY?
Msg #8428 Dated 23:57:41 07-10-91 8334 <--> 8429
From: EVAN KATZ
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FISM
And, from what I understand, a clone Evan Katz. A large clone, from
what you said. Is this true, by the way? I've tracked three Evan
Katz's down in this country (true), but none of them fit this
description.
Msg #8429 Dated 23:59:01 07-10-91 8352 <--> 8430
From: EVAN KATZ
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FISM
Did you ever see Howie Scharzman and the Howie Scharzman clone in the
same room at the same time?
Msg #8430 Dated 23:59:41 07-10-91 8365 <--> 8439
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FISM
I've been thinking about getting myself some _hair_.
Msg #8431 Dated 0:01:42 07-11-91 8368 <--> 8437
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BIROSAN
Bless you.
Msg #8432 Dated 0:03:20 07-11-91 8360 <--> 8433
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
You're a Levite? I'm a Kohane (sp). I eat Levite's for breakfast.
Msg #8433 Dated 0:04:18 07-11-91 8361 <--> 8474
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Where is com room at Dialog Info Services? Or is this an in-joke.
Msg #8434 Dated 0:05:19 07-11-91 8298 <--> 8535
From: MIKE KING
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: INSIDE MAGIC
Thank you. I would like to go ahead and take you up on your offer. I
can be reached via the post at 8424A Santa Monica Blvd. , #192, West
Hollywood, CA 90069. I would greatly appreciate this. I am in the
progress of putting together a portfolio to promote my new act. If
ever I could do something to help you, I would be more than happy too.
Thanks again. MIKE.
Msg #8436 Dated 1:02:56 07-11-91 8251 <-
From: JERRY BURTON
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: MORE PCAM
Yes - it was published in 1932. It is signed by him as President of
PA SAM. It in reasonably good shape. The back is a bit torn but I
think it can be repaired.
Msg #8437 Dated 1:03:02 07-11-91 8340 <--> 8484
From: JERRY BURTON
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: BIROSAN
I just spent the last 2 days installing 5.0 and rearranging the data
on my hard drives. Seems to run pretty good. The new shell is pretty
good.
.
Nice to have met you, see you in Salt Lake next year if not before.
.
Burton the Bizarre
Msg #8438 Dated 1:03:11 07-11-91 8398 <--> 8451
From: JERRY BURTON
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
How about a rabbit and crossed bones, ala pirate flag.
Msg #8439 Dated 1:03:15 07-11-91 8334 <--> 8453
From: JERRY BURTON
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FISM
Remember the Evan Katz clone. Actually he is Evan Katz Jr. his son is
Evan Katz the third, owns a magic shop in PA.
Msg #8440 Dated 1:03:21 07-11-91 8382 <-
From: JERRY BURTON
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: SIMPLY GREEN!
I also saw him in Vegas and totally agree - he does some impossible
things with cards. His deal into the flashlight 'laser' is the most
amazing piece I've ever witnessed - it was truly magical.
Msg #8442 Dated 1:34:07 07-11-91 8426 <--> 8449
From: T A WATERS
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: SAM DAY 1
The difference is that performance material is not an object that can
be sold as such -- it is something which is LICENSED; this is true in
many areas of art. When I sell a book, for example, what that means is
that I am giving the publisher the right to print it for a certain
period of time, and in a certain form; but it remains MY PROPERTY. In
films the script is often altered beyond recognition -- but in stage
plays the writer has absolute control over even the minutest changes;
it all depends on the licensing situation.
The cloudy area appears when we ask -- is an effect and method
performance material, or just a premise around which performance
material can be created? To some degree this is determined by just how
detailed the presentation, and how unique the effect itself -- but it
can still get a bit philosophical/theological at times.
On the other hand -- a lot of people in magic steal material, and
know they're doing something wrong; that's sad. A lot of others steal
material and don't have the slightest notion they are doing anything
wrong -- and that's REALLY sad.
Msg #8443 Dated 2:26:02 07-11-91 8016 <-
From: JERRY BURTON
To: PETE BIRO
Re: ABBOTTS 1991 GET-TOGETHER
It came from the 5th dimension.
Msg #8444 Dated 2:26:07 07-11-91 8061 <--> 8477
From: JERRY BURTON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM - DAY 3
Tell me about it. I spent the night hanging out in the Newark airport
snack bar. Never, never, fly USAIR they are terrible.
.
Finally getting unwound. Can't wait until next year.
Msg #8445 Dated 2:26:13 07-11-91 8083 <--> 8456
From: JERRY BURTON
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: LEFT OVERS
Tabman - minor point, its Danny Sylvester - not David.
Msg #8446 Dated 2:26:16 07-11-91 8138 <--> 8537
From: JERRY BURTON
To: STAN LAKE (X)
Re: COMEDY OPENER
Tommy Garbin 'The Amazing Aussie' beat you to the NOTHING up the
sleeve. He has it on an elastic pull, and uses the line, 'Nothing up
this sleeve' as he pulls up the right sleeve, 'and NOTHING up this
sleeve' as he pulls up the left sleeve to show the sign.
Msg #8447 Dated 2:26:22 07-11-91 8211 <-
From: JERRY BURTON
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FISM
I couldn't believe it - I thought USAIR must have landed me in the
wrong city. Rain in LA in July unbelievable ! Must be the
upcoming eclipse.
Msg #8448 Dated 2:26:28 07-11-91 8216 <--> 8478
From: JERRY BURTON
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: BURGER SEMINAR
Burger will also lecture Friday night in Huntington Beach, anyone
interested leave me a message.
Msg #8449 Dated 2:38:21 07-11-91 8427 <--> 8467
From: MAX MAVEN
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: SAM DAY 1
Maybe my computer is not uploading my messages in the same words I've
typed in... but I have endeavored -- several times now -- to convey my
opinion that for me this is a discussion involving morality, ethics,
and manners, not legalisms.
Msg #8451 Dated 6:22:41 07-11-91 8409 <--> 8452
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: STAMPS
Craborgue, Ckraborg, etc pronounced Kra-borg is a small imaginary
country located right here. The Hotel DeCarlo is located in Ckraborg
proper. There is no official spelling of Crabrogue, only an official
pronounciation. The Hotel DeCarlo is also an imaginary place and the
old place was called Spring Hill Plantation in the 1700s, later to
be called The Old Principal's House after my grandad (the old princip
al) died and they had to build a "new" principal's house on the other
side of the springs. Craborg is a tiny country, less than 3 acres,
and I, Nigel Stewart, am trapped by its' antiquity. My family is
third owner of the old place since the original land grant from the
King of England. By appearing to be totally insane I have become
thus and am fondly, and not so fondly referred to as "Lord Mayor of
Charlotte Hall, the colonial village which was named after Queen
Victoria - Charlotte.
Msg #8452 Dated 6:22:55 07-11-91 8410 <--> 8461
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: STAMPS
There were lots of rumors of the place being haunted before I got
here and I've helped perpetuate the myth. Sometimes late at night I
wander the springs wearing my mages robe and carrying a torch. That
and the snarling dogs keep the less than desirables at bay, but I
had to do something for fun.
Msg #8453 Dated 6:23:03 07-11-91 8411 <--> 8455
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FISM
Wooga Wooga?
Msg #8455 Dated 6:23:19 07-11-91 8429 <--> 8472
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: FISM
I had just spoken with the real Howie Schwarzman outside the close-up
room. He was waiting in the hall to go in a do his act for the
people. Right after he dissapeared I was walking through the conventi
on area and saw him again, only a little younger. The clone Howie was
very close and am glad this fellow found someone worthwhile to mimic.
Msg #8456 Dated 6:23:29 07-11-91 8445 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: JERRY BURTON
Re: LEFT OVERS
Danny Sylvester. Thanks, Burton. But Danny Sylvester in his personna
of the two dimensional Sylvester The Jester is hard to forget. He
works your area, try to find out where he is and aget some people out
to see him. Looking 4ward to the gambling book. Thanks for thinking
about me.
Msg #8457 Dated 7:26:15 07-11-91
From: DARRELL MURPHY
To: ALL
Re: DAVID ROTH LECTURE
>>>>> ATTENTION <<<*>>> ATTENTION <<<*>>> ATTENTION <<<<<
.
RING 21 ANNOUNCES
.
THE DAVID ROTH LECTURE
.
WHERE: UCLA
.
WHEN: SATURDAY AUGUST 10, 1991
.
Thats right close-up magicians, it's time to dust off the
close-up mats as well as the brain cells for what promises
to be an outstanding 4 hour close-up lecture. If you have
never seen David Roth's work you are missing a great
opportunity to learn from, in my opinion, one of the true
Masters of Close-up magic. SPACES ARE LIMITED. The price has
not been cast in concrete but is tenativly set for between
$25.00 to $30.00. The reason I am putting this message up
this early is because of the outstanding support RING 21 has
received from the members of MAGIC! in past lectures etc...
we felt we would give MAGIC! members as well as RING 21
members an advanced chance to register. We hope to have a
wide screen set-up so that there will be no bad seats.
.
If you would like more information you may write to me here
on MAGIC! or call RING 21 President Joe Selph at (818)
660-2998. I will be there running the camera so I hope to
see you there!!!!!!!!!!!!
Msg #8460 Dated 9:45:54 07-11-91 8419 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: CHARLIE RANDALL
Re: MORE SAM NOTES
Thanks for your SAM report, Charlie. Once FISM is over I plan to try
to gather all of the convention reports into one file.
Msg #8461 Dated 9:49:22 07-11-91 8422 <--> 8462
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: STAMPS
Actually, I've never thought of quotation marks as funny. I used to
work in a print shop - in the old days - with a "California Job Case"
(for those whose experience with "typesetting" started with Ventura
Publisher and a laser printer, type was, long ago, in a GALLEY far, far
away, set by hand, one letter at a time. The California Job Case was
a drawer full of metal type organized into little compartments).
Quotation marks were a problem because you had to sort the "opening
quotes" from the "closing quotes" and, of course, they appeared
backwards.
I've never heard of one massacring a house pet, but it wouldn't
surprise me. I once taught a class of moderately retarded (and totally
illiterate) teenagers. One day, one of them was playing with a set of
rubber type in the back and she suddenly peeled off the "A" and ate it!
Her sister screamed, "Geneva done et the A!" Before I could get back
there, this young woman, who did not know one letter from another,
proceeded to devour the "E," the "I," and the "O" as well! The school
psychologist got a great learned paper out of it - a Freudian, she
viewed Geneva's act as one of consuming her own potential motherhood.
Msg #8462 Dated 10:06:02 07-11-91 8451 <--> 8464
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
Thank you for the additional information on Craborgue. I will always
treasure the visa stamp in my passport. It is fortunate that the
number of physical citizens does not equal the number of intellectual
persons, otherwise the place would be a sprawl of shopping malls and
condos. Nigel Stewart seems to be an excellent addition to the
intellectual population. But do be careful if the country ever changes
from a monarchy to a democracy - places like Chicago have always had
problems with a surfeit of voters.
Msg #8463 Dated 10:12:48 07-11-91
From: BRUCE SANDERCOCK
To: DARRELL MURPHY
Re: DAVID ROTH LECTURE
Please count me in for the lecture, this August 10th. I last saw David
at the Kennedy Hotel in London at a local Brit one day convention. He
was on his way to Europe, and told me he hoped to be in California this
year...and here he is. Let me know what your final fee is and I will
get it off in the mail to you pronto! "A Day of Magic," and now David
Roth....
.....outstanding, Ring 21.
Msg #8464 Dated 10:14:07 07-11-91 8452 <--> 8470
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
Far as I could tell, Crayborgue is one of the best defended countries
in the World - the combination of the dog militia, Gloria's prowess
with a rifle, C. Wilson's repute with a handgun, and the "Spirit
Theater" (apologies to E. Burger) of both present and former occupants
should keep anything at bay! Have you tried daytime golf in the mage's
robe?
Msg #8465 Dated 10:18:29 07-11-91 8423 <--> 8466
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
You will have to take the use of ARGH! up with Pete when he returns.
As to how I define - I do it magically, of course(!) - I use a defining
rod.
Msg #8466 Dated 10:19:32 07-11-91 8424 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: PASSPORT TO MAGIC!
OK, will look for "Barton Fink." Right now I'm still trying to rebuild
computers - I THINK I have 30-Meg back; 30-Meg to go.
Msg #8467 Dated 10:21:30 07-11-91 8426 <--> 8468
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: SAM DAY 1
I believe that when it comes to "art" the legal votes are not all in on
the First Sale doctrine. There have been some court challenges -
perhaps someone on here can state what the various outcomes have been.
Msg #8468 Dated 10:24:01 07-11-91 8442 <--> 8469
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
I don't think that you are correct in stating that "performance
material is not an object that can be sold as such -- it is something
which is LICENSED." In actuallity, you can probably make ANY deal that
you can get agreement on - sell, license, barter, trade, give away, you
name it.
(I do not pretend to be a lawyer nor to dispense legal advice).
Msg #8469 Dated 10:31:51 07-11-91 8449 <--> 8475
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN
Re: SAM DAY 1
Gee, Max, is this known as "a failure to communicate?" It would appear
that somehow, something in what you are trying to express - simple as
it may appear to you - is eluding us. I've indicated my willingness to
discuss this on a moral/ethical/behavioral basis, but I'm still lost.
Msg #8470 Dated 10:36:52 07-11-91 8462 <--> 8471
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: STAMPS
Currently ruled by a non benevolent oligarchy.
Msg #8471 Dated 10:36:56 07-11-91 8464 <--> 8479
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: STAMPS
With the advent of the fully shaved male cross dresser who has been
dragging guys from the Vets Home down into the woods of late, Nigel
has been displaced by Coathanger Wilson and isn't hiding a nine iron
under the robe these days. More like heavy iron and leg irons.
We take turns. I used to have a military personality named Maj. Pyle,
but he hasn't been around ina while.
Msg #8472 Dated 10:35:42 07-11-91 8430 <--> 8473
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: FISM
Getting hair is a great idea, Evan, but you must be prepared to assume
the consequences - the crowd around here (the residents of "Techy
Heaven") generate enough surplus hair to require the ministrations of
a professional custodial service. We have to buy drain cleaner by the
case.
Msg #8473 Dated 10:38:36 07-11-91 8453 <--> 8483
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FISM
Close! It is "SDGE." By the way, Nathan performed table magic in a
resturant last night. The staff and management were so impressed that
he received his first professional fee! TWO cookies!
Msg #8474 Dated 10:44:50 07-11-91 8432 <--> 8476
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
I knew there was a reason it was my job to clean up the ashtrays and
glasses around here - we have a Priest in the Temple. I presume that
you know the proper manner in which to hold your fingers when
delivering the benedictions?
Msg #8475 Dated 10:46:21 07-11-91 8469 <--> 8495
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
Max's statements seem clear enough to me. Most people have a tendency
to try to get away with as much as they possibly can. Even my sainted
mother was cruising 90 in my old modified firebird formula 400 and
she fasts two days a week. Without the moral or ethical bent to
respect the property of others - and intellectual property seems to
get the least respect - then there will be problems. The financial
benefits of legal action far underweigh the costs of going to court.
My management company once tried to sue a label in Florida over a
$12,000 due royaly and the litigation costs would have been more than
that. It's a moral thing and the courts see only a tip of the iceburg
and we're all guilty of taking advantage of the system. I am trying
to avoid any conscious overlaps into the propriety of others but it
seems to take hard knocks to bring respect into play.
Msg #8476 Dated 10:46:48 07-11-91 8433 <--> 8481
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
The computer room at Dialog is located in/near Palo Alto. I was
fortunate enough to enter it once as a special guest. In all honest,
while it is one of the most impressive collections of research
information on the planet, unlike a traditional library, one cannot
make any more use of being there than one can of electronically
accessing it. It is a vast hall of massive mainframe diskdrives and
two mainframe computers. The diskdrives, unlike the ones you are
familiar with on a personal computer, resemble washing machines - thus,
the place looks like one of the World's largest Laundromats(sm). In
common with a traditional library, it is VERY quiet. Access to the
room is NOT by any means ordinary, and the only inhabitants are the
white gowned technomonks who serve the system.
Just in case you are not familiar with Dialog Information Services, the
ENTIRE CARD CATALOG of the Library of Congress is a SMALL part of the
information available.
Msg #8477 Dated 10:59:36 07-11-91 8444 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JERRY BURTON
Re: IBM - DAY 3
Be glad they have improved the airport, although I assume that most of
the shops in the mall are not open all night. My first exended visit
was to the OLD airport. Subsequently, I've had several stays in the
new one.
Msg #8478 Dated 11:02:51 07-11-91 8448 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: JERRY BURTON
Re: BURGER SEMINAR
I wasn't able to attend the Tuesday lecture (thanks to Max for posting
the info). Can you give more info on the Friday night one?
Msg #8479 Dated 11:05:59 07-11-91 8470 <--> 8480
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
An excellent way to run a small country! And the majority of citizens,
many of whom had migrated from Labrador, didn't seem displeased.
Msg #8480 Dated 11:08:22 07-11-91 8471 <--> 8493
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
Lest we become the target of the cross-dresser activist community, it
should be pointed out that some 90-plus percent of cross-dressers, a
percentage higher than that of the non-cross-dressing population, are
considered psychologically quite sound. Yours is apparently one of
those who has a problem.
I had not realized that Nigel had been replaced by C. Wilson. From the
timing of the messages, I had assumed that Nigel had recently arrived
in town. Or are the changes occuring faster now?
Msg #8481 Dated 11:16:09 07-11-91 8350 <--> 8485
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
If you are hearing voices then maybe its time for profession help!
Howsomever, I will look around and see if I can find copies of the
"notes" (actually three booklets) and another abbreviated set done
for a North Carolina convention. If they don't get to you in a
couple of months...remind me.
Msg #8482 Dated 11:16:26 07-11-91 8351 <--> 8490
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
When I get a chance, I will go at the earlier Sphinx files, altho I
am sure I have some huge holes in those earlier years. I would think
someone has already researched this question.
Msg #8483 Dated 11:16:36 07-11-91 8352 <--> 8487
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FISM
I remember conventions of yesteryear when Howie, Duke Stern, and a
third person (whose name I can't remember) used to appear as triples!
This was before the term "clone" had wide usage. They weren't trying
to copy each other. They just all looked alike!
Who was the Howie clone?
Does this mean we have to all go out and buy green pants?
Msg #8484 Dated 11:16:53 07-11-91 8355 <--> 8488
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: BIROSAN
I am certainly no expert on FISM or how it is run, but I believe it
is still a case of most convention planning and execution being done
by the local group at the convention site. I.B.M., later S.A.M.,
and I understand now the P.C.A.M. have gone to a standing committee
for convention planning and management. I cannot imagine how a
convention would not benefit from the acquired knowledge and exper-
ience afford by the existance of such a committee as opposed to a
new team each year.
Besides, any convention would be enhanced by a Tabman!
Msg #8485 Dated 11:17:17 07-11-91 8360 <--> 8486
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
The tar pits I have seen. One of my favorite spots used to be the
Farmer's Market, but haven't been there in awhile. I don't know
enough about the other places to know if you are kidding me or not.
Salt Lake City should be very good. In my visits there, I found the
people there to be very warm and friendly. The streets are very wide
(so they could turn the big mule team drawn wagons around) and the
facilities are all close to each other. The theatre is beautiful and
very close to the Marriott. The Salt Palace is just across the
street. I haven't done the final planning, but it would appear that
dealers, and close up will be in the hotel while lectures will be in
the Salt Palace. The stage contest is likely to be held in the
theatre. The comedy club event may be the Salt Palace, but I need to
actually see the little theatre there to make sure it is suitable.
There is a shopping mall just across the street from the Mariott. I
think it may even be joined by a walkover. Room rates are also much
cheaper than Baltimore. I like the "sleeper" conventions. I predict
this will be one of the really good ones.
Msg #8486 Dated 11:18:00 07-11-91 8361 <--> 8496
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
I only wish that my dear friend Leonard Beck was still a curator in
the Rare Book Room at the LOC. Leonard used to whisk me through the
red tape in into the stacks where I could not only view and hold the
individual volumes in the Houdini-McManus-Young collection, but also
examine the pieces of apparatus in the collection. There are great
things there to be seen other than magic books. I will never forget
when he placed a small volume in my hands. The cover told me it was
written by Thomas Paine, the embossed imprint on the fly leaf told me
it was from the personal library of Thomas Jefferson that restarted
the LOC after the British burned it, Leonard told me that the notes
scrawed in the margins were written by Benjamin Franklin. The gasp
was all mine!
Msg #8487 Dated 11:18:27 07-11-91 8365 <--> 8500
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FISM
Pink baseball caps...maybe.
I don't know about the rest...but suits and ties may become the
committee standard attire.
Msg #8488 Dated 11:18:37 07-11-91 8369 <--> 8489
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BIROSAN
I really didn't expect Pete to log on, althought I would not have
been surprised if he had tried to do so. I am surprised that the
Dutch reports make no mention of having seen him. Maybe he is out
buying up swiss watches and chocolate with Piet Forton.
Msg #8489 Dated 11:18:49 07-11-91 8370 <--> 8492
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: BIROSAN
I don't worry about upgrades and I am notorious for running old
versions of programs while the upgrades set on the shelf. If I am
happy with what a program does for me I am slow to "improve" it. I
used the old PC Tools much more than I do the current major upgrade.
Are you one of the authors of the "new" PC Tools?
Msg #8490 Dated 11:19:04 07-11-91 8372 <--> 8491
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: CONVENTIONS
heh...heh...
I only used those words to indicate that I would anticipate the new
magazine would probably have a "slick" color cover and contain
descriptions of magic effects. Personally, one of the strong points
of Inside Magic for me was that it contained NO tricks, but was
originally dedicated to covering areas not covered by other magic
publications.
I have sent Stan my money for the first year of whatever he does. I
did so because he did such a good job with Inside Magic and figure he
can't go too far wrong with the new effort.
Msg #8491 Dated 11:19:30 07-11-91 8388 <--> 8499
From: BILL WELLS
To: MAX MAVEN
Re: CONVENTIONS
Max...don't be perplexed! As you know, I am not a mentalist. I am
unable to fortell the future. I was just attempting to observe in my
own awkward way that most magic magazines seem to have a shinny,
enameled (slick) color cover and contain descriptions of magic
effects. There is a certain degree of sameness to both magicians and
magic magazines. Max Maven and Inside Magic are and were both
exceptions. What kind of magazine do you think the new publication
will be?
Msg #8492 Dated 11:19:50 07-11-91 8437 <--> 8501
From: BILL WELLS
To: JERRY BURTON
Re: BIROSAN
All reports of DOS 5.0 have indicated good things. My problem is
just finding the time to do a back up of the hard drive so I can
install 5.0 and reformat the entire beast. Thereby resurrecting
my old D drive with the screwed up FAT into one nice big 40 meg drive
and kiss the old 32 meg barrier good bye.
It was great seeing you in Baltimore. I'm sorry my convention duties
preventing my really having much time to spend with you and the other
guys. Salt Lake City should be less hectic. What about DMS next
March?
Msg #8493 Dated 11:20:14 07-11-91 8451 <--> 8510
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: STAMPS
Hail King of Kraborg! Present Principal and Manager of the Hotel
DeCarlo. Since, I lived in Charlottes' ville for a number of years
and grew up on land that was originally granted to the family by that
self same King of England and know that you are at least half
Virginian...I believe I am somewhat qualified to send such
salutations across the Potomac! Long may your flag wave! (whenever
you decide what the hell to put on it. Howzabout a flap flag that
says "Sorry - So Sorry"?
Msg #8494 Dated 11:21:25 07-11-91 8354 <--> 8516
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGIC!
...and it is all the more difficult when the "books" change covers
depending upon where they are at the time! One of the great thing
about BBSing is that the visual aspect is not a factor.
But I still await the weighty report of the ad hoc Calvert crew!
Msg #8495 Dated 11:15:55 07-11-91 8475 <--> 8503
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SAM DAY 1
And, of course, the cost and complexity of legal action is usually
taken into consideration by those who take advantage of the system. I
have just been reading Peter C. Wensberg's Land's Polaroid: A Company
and the Man Who Invented It (Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1987,
ISBN 0-395-42114-4). The Polariod vs. Kodak suit was filed on April
27th, 1976. The discovery phase continued for almost five years. The
trial began in October, 1981 and lasted for 75 days. After that, the
Judge (Rya Zobel) retired to her chambers for three years. She
rendered her decision on September 13, 1985 and, one month later,
enjoined Kodak from manufacturing, using and selling cameras and film
after January 9, 1986. In the meantime, Kodak sold some 16.5 million
instant cameras, along with film. I believe that the financial
judgement was not resolved until this year. Kodak's stock then went
up, since the judgement was for less than analysts had expected.
According to my interpretation of Wensberg's comments, Kodak may have
entered the market not just to sell cameras and film, but as a
strategic ploy to "devalue" and "trivialize" the concept of instant
photography. He says that at one point (September, 1973) in Kodak's
development process the Kodak development committee told the program
managers that "development should not be constrained by what an
individual feels is potential patent infringement."
Msg #8496 Dated 11:35:07 07-11-91 8485 <--> 8497
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
The Rodia Towers (sometimes called the "Watts Towers") are real, as are
the Vasquez Rocks. The later will actually be quite familiar to you,
as they form the background to hundreds, if not thousands, of westerns,
sci-fi flicks, and commercials.
Salt Lake City sounds interesting. I plan to be there. Why do you
refer to it as a "sleeper" convention?
Msg #8497 Dated 11:38:10 07-11-91 8486 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS
Re: IBM BALTIMORE
Alas, my friends with inside connections at the LOC have also retired.
I will always be grateful for the opportunity I had to visit the
stacks. I figure that any place that has a Gutenberg AND a Mainz Bible
in the LOBBY is probably worth a look-see.
Msg #8499 Dated 11:42:36 07-11-91 8490 <--> 8511
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BILL WELLS
Re: CONVENTIONS
I too think that Inside Magic filled an important role in the magic
community. And I think that we will loose something vital with its
demise. Stan tells me that he sees MAGIC! as "the wave of the future"
and that the potential here played a role in his decision.
--- END OF MAGIC-37 ---
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