MAGIC! - 55
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
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material herein should be treated as confidentially as other
magic information. Copyright 1991 by MAGIC!, All rights reserved.
Msg #17000 Dated 17:47:48 09-01-91 -> 17012
From: GARY PLANTS
To: DAVID WILLIAMSON
Re: BRAUE NOTEBOOKS
David, really glad to hear that you finally got the last of the
Braue Notebooks. I do hope it was worth the wait. When did the
last one (#15) finally get to you?
Msg #17001 Dated 18:19:51 09-01-91 -> 17013
From: DOUG SMITH
To: ALL
Re: TV
Does anyone have information as to when magicians will appear on the
telethon tonight or tomorrow(Mon)?
Msg #17002 Dated 20:40:12 09-01-91 -> 17485
From: BRUCE SANDERCOCK
To: BILL WELLS (X)
Re: DC
Thanks very much for your input regarding Washington. Based on your
advice we plan to move into the JW Marriott. Will be in Richmond on the
evening of the 18th, and will attempt to
reach Woody Landers at that time. Where are you located, Bill?
Msg #17003 Dated 20:41:12 09-01-91
From: BRUCE SANDERCOCK
To: BARRY GITELSON (X)
Re: HAWAII
Aloha Barry!
Thanks for your message and the Jim Burn's contact. I will try and give
him a call when we are in Maui. It's always
fun to meet Magicians from other areas. We love the "Big"
Island, but usually wind up in Oahu, Kauai, or Maui. Give us a shout
next time your visiting the Mainland.
Msg #17005 Dated 20:46:22 09-01-91 -> 17015
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: JAN-KEN-PONDER
Looking through my notebook tonight and I noticed I had meant to order
your gambling game Jan-Ken-Ponder. Question before I do, is it still
available????
Msg #17006 Dated 20:56:32 09-01-91 16962 <--> 17007
From: MIKE KING
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Hi ho, Tabman. The Horton bow is offered in their 1991 catalog. Yes
the case is the one Joe gave me. I will sent a picture along to let
you know what it is and what needs to be done to fix it. A trip to
MUSIC CITY USA sounds like a grand time. Keep me posted. I have not
seen the act, but would love to . I have talked about MOVIES TO LIFE
alot with Tony Andruzzi. I will probally fly him out to supervise, if
I ever get real serious about it. He is a great magic mind. I feel
honored to have spent a bit of time with him. Speaking of Tony, you
do not happen to have a cop-y of the Burger video. Burger goes
Bizarre. I know there is an interview with Tony on it. I just do not
wish to buy it if I will not get anything out of it other than that.
Thought if you had it, I could have a look. Well enough for now.
MIKE.
Msg #17007 Dated 21:03:10 09-01-91 16972 <--> 17016
From: MIKE KING
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SCRIPT
You can tell the guys who travel. They know what it means to pack
flat. I spent a bit of time with Ken Griffin and he was the master of
packing a truck. I swear I can not imagine anyone who got more
illusions in a truck than Ken. Gee, glad you shouted at me. I was
going to contact you about possible shooting my publicity shots/head
shots when I get this crossbow thing up an going. The last time I got
pub. shots was a few (that is a lie, MANY) years ago. I had them done
by Bruno of Hollywood. At that time that was the only acceptable
person to do them. At lesast that is what my agent told me. Do not
know if I could even afford you expertise. But would love to chat with
you about same. If you might be interested, please acknowledge. You
can reach me on the TELE at (213) 856-5652. Or drop a private message
to me on the BBS with the details and i will respond with the same.
Thanks Pete Biro, sir. Talk at you later. MIKE.
Msg #17008 Dated 22:45:30 09-01-91 16993 <--> 17019
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TONIGHT
A close up version would be interesting. Have you ever built a
Flea Circus? Do you now what one is? Just scratchin' fer ideas.
Msg #17009 Dated 22:45:36 09-01-91 16994 <--> 17020
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
Don't know why your message made me think of this, but after
seeing 60 Minutes tonight (Oh, I finally harvested the lawn!) with
Jack Lemmon as guest, it reminded me of the three STRONGEST LIVE
PERFORMANCES I, PERSONALLY, HAVE WITNESSED.
Jack Lemmon in a Broadway Show
Danny Kaye in a One Man Show
Victor Borga in a One Man Show
Msg #17010 Dated 22:45:46 09-01-91 16996 <--> 17021
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
Wish I wuz... is it the year of the Rat, yet?
Msg #17011 Dated 22:45:51 09-01-91 16998 <--> 17127
From: PETE BIRO
To: GARY PLANTS (X)
Re: GAMBLING ROUTINES
I know what you mean. The fella that you got the box from is that
way. There "IS" a joint, the real old tyme gambling "business men"
hang out for coffee... but have not been tipped to its location
(YET)... You should hear some of his comments on what is written,
and in particular some of the stuff in Erdnase... If you ever get
to LV you got to go out on the evening and spend time with him.
Just for the talk.
Msg #17012 Dated 22:46:01 09-01-91 17000 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: GARY PLANTS (X)
Re: BRAUE NOTEBOOKS
Number 15 out? Gee, I got to look at my pile and see what number
I am up to....
Msg #17013 Dated 22:46:07 09-01-91 17001 <--> 17055
From: PETE BIRO
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: TV
So far tonight I have seen Franz Harary, do a transposition of
triplets between Point A and B on stage and C in New York. Hmmmmm.
And Michael Moschen just finished his amazing ball routine with
the bouncing within the large wooden triangle. He did a lot more
on this show than he did the other night on the Tonight Show.
I think that Max Maven posted a message yesterday that Harary
would be on tomorrow as well and that "SOMETIME" Lance Burton and
Melinda would both be making appearances, but I don't know if he
had a time listed for them.
To make it even more difficult to watch tonight, the HOUDINI Movie
was on here in the San Francisco Bay Area... so the old fingers
were rapidly zapping from channel to channel.
Do you all know that William Larsen Jr., of Magic Castle fame was
in the film doing the Guillotine? A featured segment, no less!
Didn't recognize any other magicians in the film tho.
Msg #17015 Dated 22:47:04 09-01-91 17005 <--> 17022
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: JAN-KEN-PONDER
What is Jan-Ken-Ponder?
Msg #17016 Dated 22:47:09 09-01-91 17007 <--> 17018
From: PETE BIRO
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Publicity shots are NOT MY AREA OF GOODNESS... I always refer
to others with the skills. Peter Samerjan in Hollywood is the
current generation "Bruno" if you will. Not really, but he is a
great pal, and a killer snapper.
He has done the biggies... Cher, Cheryl Tiegs (whom he discovered)
and even some great dudes, like Jonathan Winters... also did a
great shoot on the Great Tomsoni and Company.
He does the star athletes that are on the Wheaties boxes too.
Arthur Bull and I used to travel with a full evening show in a
10-foot trailer!
Samerjan is in the phone book. Not cheap, but Great.
Msg #17018 Dated 23:27:18 09-01-91 17006 <--> 17028
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Hi Mike, I started to give you a call tonight about something I ran
across that would play well for you. I've been tossing and turning up
stairs and decided to give it up and come down and check in with the
magic boys and see what was going on. Will make some notes and send
out to you. Rudy who lives down the road has the video of which you
speak and I'll borrow it and bring it out so you can see it. Also in
Burger's _Spirit Theater_ unless I'm loosing my memory has an inter
view with Tony Andruzzi also. Do you have the book? One of the best
of Burger's work due to the added info from Andruzzi, Maven, and the
bibliography and historical data provided.
Msg #17019 Dated 23:27:29 09-01-91 17008 <--> 17033
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Yes, I know what a flea circus is. A pane to make and really will
keep you scratchin'. It's those little costumes.
Msg #17020 Dated 23:27:34 09-01-91 17009 <--> 17073
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
Oh, Victor Borge is one of the funniest guys on the planet. My
grandma took me to see him when I was El Kiddo and I've been hooked
since. He's the Carl Ballentine of the piano. I could watch him for
hours. There is a video being advertised on tv on him currently. I
am thinking about getting just so I can get some good laffs.
Msg #17021 Dated 23:27:42 09-01-91 17010 <--> 17024
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
I haven't been to a Chinese restaurant and read the menu lately so
don't remember whether this is the year of the rat or not. Seems like
I remember that I was born under the sign of the rooster. Cockadoodle
do.
Msg #17022 Dated 23:27:49 09-01-91 17015 <--> 17035
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: JAN-KEN-PONDER
All I know is that it is an old gambling game that Max has updated.
It uses 3 poker chips and you wins 2/3 of the time. Max sez it is
sold for entertainment purposes only and it is only 7 bucks. I'd been
meaning to order it but forgot til tonight while thumbing through sum
stuff.
Msg #17024 Dated 0:10:11 09-02-91 16935 <--> 17040
From: EVAN KATZ
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
By my numanistics, 4+6 = 10. 1 over (divided by) 0 = 1i, an
irrational number. Need I say more?
David, am I right on this? Math's too long ago.
Msg #17025 Dated 0:22:46 09-02-91 16958 <--> 17027
From: EVAN KATZ
To: ALL
Re: VIDEOS
The VIDEO NOTES discussion smoke has whirled and puffed, but now has
finally cleared, and seems to really be about the expectations of the
lecture atendee vs. the right magi feel they have to exert control
over their own material and presentation.
No one can argue that any artist has rights to exert control over their
own material and presentation -- though I note there are legal limits
here -- witness the right of other artists to "cover" songs once
they've been recoreded by their originator, and the "right of
publicity" that dilutes control over the use of one's image once one
becomes a public figure (Tabby -- I'm right re the song thing, right?).
ANYWAY -- the artist has many more rights than not in this area. The
issue is WHAT the antendee thinks he is buying when he attends a
lecture. I submit that the vast majority of lecture atendees think
they are attending a lesson -- what T A somewhat confusingly (to me)
refers to as a "teaching seminar." People buy tickets to be taught by
their favorite magi. Or even listen to theory. So if the purpose of
a lecture is to teach, what IS the problem with taking video notes?
Of course the problem is the collision course this is on with the
performer's right to control his image. The key issue here is what the
attendee reasonably thinks he's buying with his lecture ticket, and
what the magi thinks he or she is selling. I DO think a lecture is
perceived as a "Teaching Seminar." If it is not to be one, it should
be advertised as such. If it IS a teaching seminar, held for the sole
purpose of dissemination of knowledge, then I CAN see the argument for
allowing the student to record the lesson in the most thorough way
possible!
The discussion on the board has been heavily weighted one way, with
only our beloved SYSOP taking this position. His is not a clearly
ludicrous position to me -- it is not a clear issue at all. It makes
sense a lecture attendee and a performer would view it from opposite
poles, but the issue is not as one-sided as it has been argued here.
Perhaps it's time to put this issue to rest -- I do think it's been
talked to death. But I feel that all the performers and creators we
have here jumped all over this with their point of view, while the
lecture attendees, some of whom MUST feel differently and would LOVE a
better records of their purchase, have kept astonishingly silent. This
is a seminar for opinion and discussion by people with multi-faceted
involvement in magic. Hot talk and harsh words should not prevent the
non-professionals from contributing, as I suspect it has here.
Let the bullets fly. I'll take any comers.
Msg #17026 Dated 0:40:37 09-02-91 16968 <--> 17030
From: EVAN KATZ
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I am honestly and genuinely confused as to the difference between waht
the vast majority of convention attendees think of as a lecture, and a
teaching seminar. I suspect your definition has to do with the value
that is put on your time and knowledge. I am curious, however, as to
what exactly you feel a lecture is, aside from talking. If you are
talking, are you not teaching? And if you are teaching, don't you want
your students to learn and remember as effectively as possible?
Msg #17027 Dated 0:54:50 09-02-91 16965 <--> 17031
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
You did indeed include "past" and "generally" in your comments about
reading being the entry point to magic.
Msg #17028 Dated 0:59:27 09-02-91 17007 <--> 17049
From: T A WATERS
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Gee, I dunno if I would use the word "crossbow" and the phrase "head
shot" in the same sentence...
Msg #17030 Dated 1:03:14 09-02-91 16961 <--> 17032
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Actually, no, the big shareware guys rode the wave for a long time. A
few of 'em made MUCHO dinero from shareware. I suspect that the recent
concern over viruses has sent many of 'em into the commercial market -
interestingly enough, viruses are pretty rare and can be caught from
commercial software too!
Msg #17031 Dated 1:02:31 09-02-91 17025 <--> 17050
From: T A WATERS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
It's real simple; a lecture is a talk -- check any dictionary. When I
give a lecture I am TELLING people how to do something, I am not
TEACHING them. You seem to be saying that I should tell them that when
I say I am lecturing, I mean what I say and not what they might like it
to mean. In any college you'd care to name, they have teachers and
they have lecturers and -- while an individual may do both -- they are
distinctly separate activities. That magicians as a group may not
understand a distinction made everywhere else is unfortunate -- but it
is their problem. This isn't Humpty-Dumpty land...
Msg #17032 Dated 1:05:02 09-02-91 16963 <--> 17034
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Indeed there does seem to be a difference between a magic lecture and
a daily lecture in a college classroom. I'm trying to understand that
difference. It is not uncommon for a field to use a word in a
specialized way - so I'm trying find out how magicians use the word
"lecture."
Msg #17033 Dated 1:06:49 09-02-91 17019 <--> 17037
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TONIGHT
As the one-time front talker for Professor Heckler's Flea Circus, I
think you ought to make distinctions between fake (magic) flea circuses
and the real thing.
Msg #17034 Dated 1:07:24 09-02-91 16964 <--> 17036
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
They've got a bathtub race up in Alaska that gets more participants
than they would like - so they made up a rule that says that the first
team across the finish line is automatically disqualified for trying
too hard.
Msg #17035 Dated 1:11:02 09-02-91 17022 <--> 17063
From: MAX MAVEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: JAN-KEN-PONDER
I'll put a set in the mail to you.
Msg #17036 Dated 1:09:16 09-02-91 17026 <--> 17038
From: T A WATERS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I addressed part of this in a previous message, but no -- lecturing is
talking, not teaching. When I lecture I tell you how to do something
and that's the end of it; when I teach I tell you how to do something
and then make sure you understand me and know (at least basically) how
to do it. The term "teaching" implies making sure that the knowledge
has been absorbed -- that's why there are tests and such in most
teaching situations -- but a lecture does not. Talking is not
teaching; lecturing is not teaching. I would charge a lot more to
teach someone an effect that simply to tell them how to do it; the
former might take hours or days, the latter a few minutes.
When I am teaching, I want to make sure my students DO learn -- when
I am lecturing, that responsibility shifts to them.
Again -- I make a very clear and (along with most of the pedagogic
world) obvious distinction between these two things. It isn't mine;
it's what the words mean -- and as I have indicated before, I am not
responsible for those people who don't know what the words mean.
Msg #17037 Dated 1:14:35 09-02-91 16982 <--> 17061
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Michael Moschen will be presenting his one-man show (near 2 hours in
length) at the Kennedy Center in D.C. on October 1 & 2.
Msg #17038 Dated 1:09:18 09-02-91 16968 <--> 17039
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I'm struggling with your definition, T A. I am begining to think that
the whole thing DOES hinge, not on the video-notes, but on what a
lecture is really supposed to be. Your definition of "lecture" sounds
more like my definition of "speech." I frequently speak to groups and most
of what I say is what I would call "delightful obfuscation." They love
my speeches, they always invite me back, I even have "groupies," but
none of 'em can ever seem to remember what it was I said!
Is this the nature of a magic lecture?
Msg #17039 Dated 1:15:49 09-02-91 16986 <--> 17041
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Certainly I eat peas with my knife - but the "secret" there is to
prepare the peas with honey. Black eyed peas are a different breed.
Msg #17040 Dated 1:18:11 09-02-91 16987 <--> 17042
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
Why don't we just say that you've had twelve additional years of
worthwhile experience? Crabb already knows that he is _OLDER_ than me.
Msg #17041 Dated 1:18:31 09-02-91 17038 <--> 17052
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Yep -- a lecture is a speech, a talk. To respond to something in one
of your earlier messages: magicians use a LOT of words -- PRACTICE...
REHEARSAL... ETHICS... in ways at variance with the rest of humanity;
and, as with their intepretation of the word LECTURE -- they're wrong.
Msg #17042 Dated 1:18:59 09-02-91 17010 <--> 17043
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
I believe that it IS the year of the Rat - last year was the year of
the Horse. I believe that the Chinese year is around 4600 something.
Hard to believe that for some of us, in a few days, it will be the year
5752.
Once heard a Chinese comic to a great bit with that - after
establishing how great he felt about coming from a culture so old he
said, "Then I found out that in the Jewish calendar it is 5751 - a
THOUSAND YEARS more than ours! Tell me, how did the Jews get along for
a thousand years without Chinese food?"
Msg #17043 Dated 1:23:07 09-02-91 17024 <--> 17057
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
That is one way of looking at it, Evan. And it does explain a great
deal! But I believe that Tabby was using a less scientific form of
divination.
Msg #17047 Dated 1:34:42 09-02-91 16979 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ENTER
Whatever the test in message 16979 was - it looks like it worked - your
message was addressed to me and the topic was "ENTER." I presume that
you indicated NOT PRIVATE.
Msg #17048 Dated 1:35:42 09-02-91 16983 <--> 17087
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ER
Your message entered to ER with ER as a subject got here just that way!
Interesting, since there is a prompt for an incorrect name. I wonder
how the IMP! file, along with your com program, managed to by-pass it?
JERRY - you got any clues?
Msg #17049 Dated 1:40:47 09-02-91 17016 <--> 17051
From: MIKE KING
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Thank you, sir. Did not really know if HEAD STUFF/PUB STUFF was you
forte. But thought I might ask. Thanks for the tip on Peter Samerjan.
I know his work and will give him a shout when I get ready. Also will
have shots done by David Franks. An ol school buddy, who does quite
abit of celeberty stuff. He also works for Time?life as a shooter.
Thaks again for the tip. MIKE.
Msg #17050 Dated 1:39:57 09-02-91 17031 <--> 17056
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Hmmmm..... My dictionary, a Webster's New Collegiate, defines lecture
as "a discourse given before an audience or class _especially_ _for_
_instruction_" (emphasis mine). In American colleges I do not believe
that you will find "teachers" and "lecturers" unless you are referring
to guest speakers as lecturers - otherwise the term is only generally
used in British schools to denote academic direction. In the U.S., the
common distinction is "professors" and "instructors" and those two
titles are used to distinguish rank, not the form of delivery.
Msg #17051 Dated 1:44:25 09-02-91 17018 <--> 17053
From: MIKE KING
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Have Strange Ceremonies (sp) and Experience of Magic. Both have
interviews with Tony. Thanks for the chance to watch the video. I
also have I think located a copy of the Hans Moretti act on video.
Will know more tomorrow. Talk at you then. MIKE.
Msg #17052 Dated 1:45:39 09-02-91 17041 <--> 17060
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Please note my dictionary definition, supplied earlier.
Msg #17053 Dated 1:46:12 09-02-91 17028 <--> 17064
From: MIKE KING
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Good point, my good man. Guess I just, dare I say, lost my head. By
the way, I checked out the Mike Ammar champange bottle trick you
recommended. Very nice. Thanks for the tip. How are things going
with inventory. Must keep you working long hours. Like I have said
before. If you need an extra hand, I will he happy to pitch in. Hope
things are well with you and yours. Later. MIKE.
Msg #17055 Dated 4:36:19 09-02-91 17013 <--> 17128
From: DOUG SMITH
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TV
Thanks. I missed all of that, but in the midwest wehave the two hour
timechange and I was too tired to stay up.
Msg #17056 Dated 4:40:22 09-02-91 17025 <--> 17058
From: DOUG SMITH
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Is the concern the same we find in the classroom when a teacher decides
if students may tape a lecture? Genealogists differ along the same
lines. Some allow taping and others do not mind. At the most recent
large conference I went to on genealogy there was an organization that
taped each lecture and sold the tapes for seven fifty, but about twenty
percent of presentors did not allow taping.
Msg #17057 Dated 7:59:20 09-02-91 17024 <--> 17074
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
I think I've always been an irrational number.
Msg #17058 Dated 7:59:24 09-02-91 17025 <--> 17059
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Welcome back, Evan. You are right on the SONG THING, but there are
a couple of things I need to mention concerning it. A song can be
legally covered once the owners have had their run, however it must
be licensed (must be granted) and the royalties are paid each and
every time it is covered. I feel like you know this, but since you
didn't say it, there are others who might not know. I read articles
in two different magic publications this year giving advice to
magicians on putting their background music tapes together. The
advice was, get some stuff you like from the record store and
COPY it to a cassette and use it. No mention was made of the fact
that legally and morally royalties are due both the writer(s) and
publisher(s) of this material. Simply said, if YOU are making money
using our music then WE want to be paid - each time you use it. I
fail to see the difference between a piece of music and a piece of
magic.
Msg #17059 Dated 7:59:38 09-02-91 17027 <--> 17076
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Thank you!
Msg #17060 Dated 7:59:42 09-02-91 17030 <--> 17062
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I guess the lure of the pretty box and fat instruction manual with
their name on it is what swung 'em to the other side.
Msg #17061 Dated 7:59:47 09-02-91 17033 <--> 17072
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
My experience with flea circuses is limited, but seems like I read
in _The Boy Mechanic_ about putting a flea circus together using a
box and a piece of plate glass, finally removing the glass after the
fleas get tired of bumping their heads (they have heads, don't they?)
Don't know if this is real or fake kind.
Msg #17062 Dated 7:59:54 09-02-91 17034 <--> 17066
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
That's a good one.
Msg #17063 Dated 7:59:57 09-02-91 17035 <--> 17075
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: JAN-KEN-PONDER
Likewise, from this end. 7
Msg #17064 Dated 8:00:01 09-02-91 17051 <--> 17067
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: SCRIPT
I'd like to see the dad Moretti's act too.
Msg #17065 Dated 8:04:13 09-02-91
From: BRUCE SANDERCOCK
To: ALL
Re: LINK PINS
Can anyone tell me where I may purchuse Jerry Andrus's
"Linking Pins"?
Msg #17066 Dated 10:20:45 09-02-91 17060 <--> 17077
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Well, like I said, I think there has been a drop in the shareware
market due to concern over viruses. Back in the "good old days" I knew
of Fortune 500 companies that had folks whose job it was to identify
shareware and to impliment it throughout the company. Now many, in a
blanket attempt to keep viruses out, have banned the use of shareware.
It goes back to Tommy Wonder and T A's messages about thieves - the
social fabric has diminished the concept of shareware.
Msg #17067 Dated 11:46:37 09-02-91 17064 <--> 17070
From: MIKE KING
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Hopefully will get a copy. If so, I will make sure you get a look.
Saw Michael M. on JErry Lewis Telethon last night, along with Lance,
Meleinda and Kohl and Co. They did not get much time, but M.M. was
incredible. Have a great holiday. Best to all. MIKE.
Msg #17068 Dated 12:44:54 09-02-91 -> 17069
From: MIKE KING
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
I did not recieve my Magic Castle newsletter fo the next six weeks.
And, of course, the office is closed today for holiday. I was thinking
about going tonight, but do not know who is on the bill. Mainly
interested in the Palace show. Would some nice person out there
pleadse inform me before night fall as to the bill. I would grtly
appreciate it. Many thanks. MIKE.
Msg #17069 Dated 12:48:23 09-02-91 17068 <--> 17071
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
The following performers are on the schedule for this week:
September 3rd to September 8th
Close-Up Early - Bruce Cervon
Close-Up Late - Bob Cummings
Parlour Early - Suds
Parlour Late - Howard Jay
Palace - Jonathan Neal Brown and Liane
Peter Pit
BUT - If you go tonite - Monday - you will be very lonely because the
Castle is CLOSED for Labor Day. You'd have to park your own car, cook
your own diner, pour your own drinks, and perform your own show. On
the other hand, tonite might be a good night to help yourself to Super
Pig as a souvenier.
Msg #17070 Dated 15:15:25 09-02-91 17067 <--> 17089
From: PETE BIRO
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Arggh I missed Lance and Melinda and Kohl... argh to th e most...
Msg #17071 Dated 15:16:30 09-02-91 17069 <--> 17088
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Just going there to contemplate at the foot of Super Pig is enough,
isn't it?
Msg #17072 Dated 15:17:02 09-02-91 17019 <--> 17079
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Not to mention the tap shoes!
Msg #17073 Dated 15:17:06 09-02-91 17020 <--> 17102
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
Saw a Borga HUNK on the telethon where he was playing Autumn
Leaves (or is it Leafes?) and he had to get under the piano due to
the amount of Leaves falling... reminded me of the Snowstorm in
China we did for a gag once at the Magic Academy banquet/show!
Msg #17074 Dated 15:17:13 09-02-91 17021 <--> 17084
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
Again, last night Howie Mandel said it was the year of the RAM,
but Arsenio had someone in Audience correct and say it was the
year of something SIMILAR, like a goat or sumpin' but Howie's line
was "Glad it's the year of the Ram, I like Dodge trucks!"
HOWIE (I wouln't have stopped on the channel just for Arsenio) was
brilliant with a NEW VENT ROUTINE... he had a small person made
up like a Vent Doll... KILLER... the way he tossed the little guy
around and the bits were priceless! Specially when Howie drank and
ate and the figure kept talking and BURPING.... toooooo goooood
Msg #17075 Dated 15:17:24 09-02-91 17022 <--> 17104
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: JAN-KEN-PONDER
Hmmmm. wonder if it can be tied into routine with FAST AND LOOSE?
Have come upwith something very NEW on the endless chain... will
show you when here...
Msg #17076 Dated 15:17:30 09-02-91 17025 <--> 17095
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
An aspect of the video question has not been addressed. Nuisance.
You cannot, for example, sit in the baseball stadium and take
pictures (not even stills) because it IS A BOTHER TO THOSE AROUND
YOU. You block their view, take up space, etc. This is a major
point with them. I have gone thru this when shooting games for
even Sports Illustrated... where positions of camera angles is
a highly competetive and fought over situation.
.
Not that at a lecture that cannot be controlled by the polite
discussion between camera operator and committee.
.
I still firmly believe it is up to the performer if he/she is to
allow video taping.
.
Maybe the best solution would be for the performer, in concert
with the organizer to make an 'OFFICIAL' tape note of the session.
And offer it as part of the fee? Hmmmmmmm....
.
Any comments?
Msg #17077 Dated 15:17:51 09-02-91 17026 <--> 17078
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Hah... how many Magicalumpen go to, say a Convention, and consider
a show (not a scheduled, named as, lecture) and consider it a
fair game to take notes and steal the material? Huh?
Msg #17078 Dated 15:17:59 09-02-91 17032 <--> 17081
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Lecture has become a generic word in the world of magic. It is
anything that happens at conventions, in particular, that is not
labeled a show.
There are a few exceptions... such as the "Teach In" at the desert
Seminar... and I am sure there are more.
And at magic club functions, I have yet to hear of any engagement
for speaking or teaching called anything other than a Lecture.
So, we must figure that it is a generic term. Even if one particular
event is "advertised" as something else, the Magicalumpen will all
consider it a LECTURE.
Msg #17079 Dated 15:18:11 09-02-91 17033 <--> 17080
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
It is possible that Tabby and I DO NOT KNOW THE DIFFERENCE beteween
a fake (or real?) (magic) Flea Circus. What do you define 'em as?
Msg #17080 Dated 15:18:16 09-02-91 17037 <--> 17101
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: TONIGHT
I'd love to go to DC to see Moschen but the COMPUTER Convention
is on those days in San Fran... and I want to go to some of thier
LECTURES <>!
.
Do you know if that show will be tv'd? Also... enjoyed his set on
the telethon much more tha the previous appearance on the Tonight
show. Don't know why? Just did.
.
Also caught Michael Goudeau (spelling is probably wrong) doing
his stuff. Funny guy.
Msg #17081 Dated 15:18:29 09-02-91 17038 <--> 17082
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
See wot I sed.... the woid LECTURE has become a generic woid to
the MOJOLUMPKINS....
Msg #17082 Dated 15:18:34 09-02-91 17039 <--> 17083
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I will be glad to prep Peas with 'A' HONEY.
Msg #17083 Dated 15:18:38 09-02-91 17041 <--> 17096
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
DITTO
Msg #17084 Dated 15:18:43 09-02-91 17042 <--> 17094
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
Do the Jewish use chopsticks when eating oriental food?
Msg #17087 Dated 15:18:58 09-02-91 17048 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ER
I guess it just loads it generically... since you (or I) is off
line you can enter anything... but how it goes into the system
with a bogus name is weird. I will next send a message to a fake
name "Santa Clause" and you let me know if that one comes in.
Msg #17088 Dated 15:24:56 09-02-91 17069 <--> 17091
From: MIKE KING
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
David:
Would you care to join me tonight at the Castle for drinks? And would
you mind bringing a blowtorch? I have festivities planned, IF you are
available.
I await your reply.
MIKE
Msg #17089 Dated 15:26:42 09-02-91 17070 <--> 17135
From: MIKE KING
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SCRIPT
My secret is to sleep, videotape the whole thing, and then fastforward
the next day just to pick up the magic acts. Then I get to go to the
beach and cook barbecue and be with my girlfriend without feeling
deprived.
Mike
PS: she looks great in a bikini too.
Msg #17090 Dated 15:39:06 09-02-91 -> 17129
From: DOUG SMITH
To: ALL
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Has anyone information or an opinion about an effect called "flashing
fingertips?" A flash, bang, and smoke are produced when the fingers
with chemicals on them are snapped.A white powder (potassium chlorate?)
is on the thumb and one-half as much red powder (red phosphorus?) is on
the middle finger. Is it effective in front of a group? Is the warning
"The proper use of this product is the sole responsibility of the user
and therefore the manufacturer and seller will not be responsible for
any injury or property damage incurred by said product." No
manufacturer is listed on the suppl purchased. This is part of my
securing information on the use of science in magic. Thanks.
Msg #17091 Dated 16:09:10 09-02-91 17071 <--> 17092
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
No, contemplation is not enough - if you want good luck, you have to
pat its differential.
Msg #17092 Dated 16:09:51 09-02-91 17088 <--> 17093
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Thank you for the thoughful invitation. Alas, I have other plans for
this evening. I'd be pleased to loan anyone a blowtorch however, as
long as they make sure they return it, or, at the very least, that they
polish it carefully prior to use.
Msg #17093 Dated 16:12:38 09-02-91 17092 <--> 17100
From: MIKE KING
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Is that polish the blowtorch? Or, polish of the Piglet From Hell before
I return the blowtorch? Anyway, we can do the Castle another night.
I think I still owe you a drink. Is that an honest memory or what?
Catch ya later. MIKE.
Msg #17094 Dated 16:12:54 09-02-91 17084 <--> 17103
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
It depends on which branch of Jews is eating chinese food -
Conservatives, of course, use chopsticks; Reform use forks and knives.
By the way, there are several kosher chinese resturants in New York,
and, I believe, one out here, so that Orthodox Jews can enjoy Chinese
food as well. The original kosher Chinese resturant in New York is
Bernsteins, started by Schmulke Bernstein. Excellent Chinese food can
also be found at Fine and Shapiro's.
In the 16th Century or so (C.E.) there were Chinese Jews, but when
China was cut off from the rest of the World the group died out. An
old story is about two Jews sitting at Bernsteins wondering if there
were still any Chinese Jews. Finally, they call over the Chinese
waiter (who, by the way, wears a skullcap, thus bridging both
traditions) and ask, "Do you have Chinese Jews?" He thinks a minute
and says, "No, we have grapefruit juice."
Msg #17095 Dated 16:19:08 09-02-91 17076 <--> 17106
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Actually, it is the "official" tape of the session, not individual
video-notes, that I have been suggesting all along. While I would
prefer to make my own video, the things you mentioned, along with lack
of remuneration to the lecturer, argue in favor of an "official video
note" instead of individual ones.
Msg #17096 Dated 16:20:58 09-02-91 17078 <--> 17097
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
The TEACH INs at Desert Magic are GREAT! I hope they are planning on
continuing them. They are one of the best parts.
Msg #17097 Dated 16:21:58 09-02-91 17081 <--> 17105
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I've always assumed that when I attend a "lecture" that I am entitled
to walk out with something - a new idea, a new way of looking at
things, a new trick, something. Even in the generic, it should be a
learning experience. After all, if I just want to see someone babble
mindlessly, I don't need to go to a lecture, I can watch television.
Msg #17100 Dated 16:27:26 09-02-91 17093 <--> 17111
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Not sure I know what you are asking about as an "honest memory." The
goal of returning or polishing the blowtorch is to keep my prints off
of it - I think I'm on the "suspect list." Ah! Got it - the question
was is YOUR memory about owing me a drink correct! The answer is
CERTAINLY!
Msg #17101 Dated 16:43:48 09-02-91 17072 <--> 17109
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TONIGHT
I can see it now, juggling indian clubs while tap dancing.
Msg #17102 Dated 16:43:53 09-02-91 17073 <--> 17176
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
We had some people over today for our last (knock on wood...thump
thump) cookout here at the Hotel DeCarlo and missed the telethon.
Sorry I missed Victor on the tube. Bet he didn't miss a note, or
rather didn't miss any he wanted to hit.
Msg #17103 Dated 16:43:59 09-02-91 17074 <--> 17134
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
We flashed by the chanel with Mandel last night, but it was Glo's
turn to control the remote and she flashes through the chanels like
an Uzi. Usually pretty good at catching the good stuff, but caught
Arsenio after the Howie bit.
Msg #17104 Dated 16:44:06 09-02-91 17075 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: JAN-KEN-PONDER
I started to tell you and then I forgot. Was thumbing through the
new ed of Amateur Mag Handbook a couple of days ago looking at some
jap box stuff and saw that it had some work on the endless loop. Prob
the basic routine and at least one variation.
Msg #17105 Dated 16:44:13 09-02-91 17077 <--> 17121
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
At the IBM shows last time I heard guys talking about lines and
bits of business, writing them down, etc talking about what they
were going to "use" when they got home. It's no wonder everybody
is paranoid.
Msg #17106 Dated 16:44:21 09-02-91 17095 <--> 17108
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
If you want to try to work a deal with the lecturers at MCCMS to
do an "official video" then we'll talk about it and I can put you
"officially" in touch with each. My criterion would be that the
purchase price be in the 10 - 15 dollar range and that the $$ be
split with the guys lecturing. Also the promoter (thatz me) would
want a copy of each lecture plus 1 dollar per tape sold. Again, it
would be up to the individual lecturer however and I certainly have `
no objection to any lecturer setting up his own system as long as
I get one. I want these guys to get what's coming to them. They all
have worked hard and taken the lumps associated with adherance to
the artists' life. I might consider also a general video just so
I can sit back after it's all over and see what we all just did.
No photos, please. Elvis has left the building.
Msg #17107 Dated 16:44:33 09-02-91 -> 17131
From: TABBY CRABB
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: SAME TO YOU
Ee;17095
Cooking out at the beach with a bikini'd girlfriend sounds like
a good way to spend Labor Day. I hear the horse shoes clanging out
side right now and I think I'll go and have another ball park frank.
Have a good one...
Msg #17108 Dated 17:50:49 09-02-91 17076 <--> 17114
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Yeah; the lecturer might not WANT it taped, FOR ANY PURPOSE. He or she
might feel that no tape record could accomplish what was intended, and
would prefer to have such a thing not exist.
Msg #17109 Dated 17:55:03 09-02-91 17061 <--> 17110
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TONIGHT
No -- once you've got the harnesses on them (the tricky part) they
ain't going anywhere. Heckler used fleas from Europe, and only female
fleas; the males were too lazy. This observation will not surprise
line dancers...
Msg #17110 Dated 17:56:36 09-02-91 17079 <--> 17118
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Simple enough; a real one -- like Heckler's -- uses real live fleas, in
harnesses, who are made to do various things like rotating a tiny
carousel, rolling a ball with their legs while lying on their back,
having a chariot race, etc. A fake one uses gimmicks to simulate the
action of the supposedly invisible fleas. Of course in a real FC you
CAN see the fleas; Heckler used a huge Bausch & Lomb magnifying glass
over the performance area.
Msg #17111 Dated 17:59:51 09-02-91 17068 <--> 17130
From: T A WATERS
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Yes -- if you go tonight, you will be the only performer there. It's
closed.
Msg #17113 Dated 18:12:12 09-02-91 -> 17193
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
My unabridged OXFORD ENGLISH DICTIONARY, which I consider the final
authority on such matters, calls a lecture "a discourse on a given
subject..." and defines DISCOURSE as "...a speech or talk." I would
also point out that instruction is different from teaching. The
clearest example would be software docs -- the manuals instruct, and
the aftermarket books teach....oh, all right, I am being sarcastic.
Msg #17114 Dated 18:31:42 09-02-91 17031 <--> 17115
From: EVAN KATZ
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I am not specifically telling you to do anything -- I would never
presume to tell you how to hold or promote a lecture, just as you woul
never dictate to me how a script should be written, or the like. I
was, however, making the point that I think the lecture attendees have
a different perception of what the lecture is. That their expectation
is to be taught. Many lectures accomplish this -- and I suspect that
there is a great deal of learning going on at your lectures as well.
The distinction is important not because I think you should change your
lecture, but because I think it makes the "video notes" line of
reasoning a little more understandable to those (like yourself) who
found the concept incomprehensible.
Msg #17115 Dated 18:35:48 09-02-91 17056 <--> 17116
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: VIDEOS
There is a man here in Los Angeles, somewhat widely knows, who teaches
fairly expensive courses that teach screeplay writing and structure.
He does not allow any taping of his lectures, as he is planning on
writing a book -- and also because I'm sure he believes taping would
cause fewer people to show up. I think his rule is unreasonable, and
for this reason, never signed up for his courses. I can imagine there
being a man whose knowledge was so valuable to me that I'd pay a lot of
money with this restriction, but this isn't the case here.
PS - Bootlegged transcriptions of the lectures abound!
Msg #17116 Dated 18:39:41 09-02-91 17058 <--> 17117
From: EVAN KATZ
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
There IS a difference between a piece of music and a piece of magic.
I'm just not sure what the difference(s) is/are. This is a boggling
copyright, intellectual property discussion, and I am not knowledgable
enough about it to help!
Msg #17117 Dated 18:36:26 09-02-91 17114 <--> 17120
From: MAX MAVEN
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I think the discussion concerning the definition of "lecture" is off
the point. The bottom line is, so far as I am concerned, that the word
"lecture" within the parlance of magic means "what is presented by a
lecturer" -- a circular definition, true, but the one we're stuck with.
There are, I think, three key points: (1) The lecturer has the right to
decide what he/she wishes to present, and the conditions thereof. (2)
The booker has the right -- and the responsibility -- to find out just
what the lecturer has in mind, and then (assuming they wish to go ahead
and make the booking) to convey that information accurately to the
potential attendees. (3) The attendees have the right to decide that
the lecturer's offering is not what they want, and thus not attend.
Msg #17118 Dated 18:41:27 09-02-91 17080 <--> 17123
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TONIGHT
The D.C. show will not be televised, but much of the material is on the
special he did for the PBS "Great Performances" series last January.
Msg #17120 Dated 18:41:04 09-02-91 17076 <--> 17125
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Yes, the nuisance question is important -- attendees who have paid for
an event do not want their experience ruined because a record of the
event is being made -- this seems very reasonable.
I think making an official tape of the session would be an idea that
would meet with great success. Don't know about the economics, though.
Msg #17121 Dated 18:44:30 09-02-91 17036 <--> 17122
From: EVAN KATZ
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
And as an attendee, I can assure you that the vast majority of people
who pay to see lectures would find your definitions over subtle. Once
again, I'm not telling you what to do, just alerting you to the notion
that your terms and definitions and those of your "audience" might not
match up as closely as you believe.
By the way, I also find the difference between "lecturing" and
"teaching" somewhat over subtle.
Msg #17122 Dated 18:47:28 09-02-91 17077 <--> 17140
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I'm sure that many do see a show as a platform from which to steal, but
this is off-topic. We're talking about people paying to be taught how
to perform magic, not people paying to see a performance.
Msg #17123 Dated 19:31:06 09-02-91 17109 <--> 17133
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Now wait a minute. How do you get a harness on a flea? Do I feel
somebody tugging on my leg? I've gotta look this up.
Msg #17125 Dated 19:31:21 09-02-91 17116 <--> 17139
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Consider that magic to the deaf is like music to the blind.
Msg #17127 Dated 20:06:26 09-02-91 17011 <-
From: GARY PLANTS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: GAMBLING ROUTINES
I could tell he was VERY INTERESTING from just our conversation on
the phone. I expect the "Box" to be here about Tuesday or Wednesday
of this week. Can't wait. I did go ahead and order the Kep. H.O.
I felt the price was right. I am keeping my eyes open for those
$250 trimmer/rounder sets, but I haven't run across any yet????
Msg #17128 Dated 20:06:35 09-02-91 17013 <--> 17150
From: GARY PLANTS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TV
I believe it has been mentioned already but just in case the
original Houdini movie is now out on video for $14.95. I bought
one immediately and it is well worth it. In most cases the movie
was edited when it was shown on TV. Do you know where in the movie
they make reference to West Virginia?
Msg #17129 Dated 20:06:47 09-02-91 17090 <--> 17137
From: GARY PLANTS
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
You have the right chemicals and it is a VERY, VERY, (EXTREMELY)
DANGEROUS EXPLOSIVE. Larry Jennings had a routine in "Neoclassics"
where he used these chemicals. They do not reveal the chemicals
in the book for obvious reasons. This was first published in a
small pamphlet (to my knowledge) in May, 1909 by Prof. Ellis
Stanyon. It is found on pages 10-12 and is called the "Devils
Whisper". At NO TIME should any large quantity of these two
chemicals be mixed together. Very explosive. Limbs and life have
been lost because of mixing too large of a quantity of these
chemicals. It is also covered in "How To Make Flashes, Bangs, and
Puffs of Smoke" by Mickey Hades. You could not go wrong in
picking up this book, if you don't already have it. I have used it
and if you are not careful you can end up with a pretty nasty
burn. In VERY small quantities, I guess the worst you could do is
get a bad burn.
Hope this helps.
Did you say you teach science? And do you use magic in your
teaching? If so, I would be interested in some of the uses that
you have come across. I also teach science and am interested in
different ideas that you might have.
Msg #17130 Dated 20:16:47 09-02-91 17100 <--> 17132
From: MIKE KING
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Yes I was refdering to a time when I think
I offered to buy you a drink awhilke back. I have had a heck of time
with short term memory lately, so was trying to remember about said
drink. Oh well, I buy ya one when I see ya again. MIKE.
Msg #17131 Dated 20:19:12 09-02-91 17107 <--> 17191
From: MIKE KING
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SAME TO YOU
Thank you sir. I plaon it. Having a good one that is. Bye for now.
MIKE.
Msg #17132 Dated 20:20:21 09-02-91 17111 <--> 17172
From: MIKE KING
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Well maybe I would have a receptive audience to try out the new
material on. But there is the problem that I might bore myself and
then walk out on me and ....this could get ugly. Oh well, I guess it
is another night at home on the BBS. Or better yet practicing. By the
way, while I have your attention. I read your review of Jim
Steinmeyers new book. It was right on the money. A very nice job. I
could not agree with you more. I know most Illusion guys ran out and
bought it. But maybe your review will help spread the word on a
wonderful magic offering. hanks. MIKE.
Msg #17133 Dated 21:07:23 09-02-91 16906 <--> 17145
From: EDDIE GOLDSTEIN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TONIGHT
I did mean ask about the construction of the triangle. There seemed to
be a lot of interest in that. I certainly did not think that a
curiosity about it implied that you would try to steal it.
Msg #17134 Dated 21:14:22 09-02-91 17024 <--> 17138
From: EDDIE GOLDSTEIN
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
1 divided by 0 is NOT an irrational number. It is undefined. An
irrational number is one that cannot be expressed as a fraction, like
the square root of 17. 1/0 is undefined because it really asks the
question, "What number can I multiply times 0 and get an answer of 1?"
There isn't any number that fits that bill.
Msg #17135 Dated 22:26:51 09-02-91 17089 <--> 17136
From: PETE BIRO
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: SCRIPT
A chain and a strong bumper might be quicker!
Msg #17136 Dated 22:26:56 09-02-91 17089 <--> 17152
From: PETE BIRO
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Sounds like a beer commercial! Argh.
Msg #17137 Dated 22:27:01 09-02-91 17090 <--> 17170
From: PETE BIRO
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
I think it it a one time only effect, unless you decide to do it
again with your remaining hand.
.
There are a number of small gadgets you can easily conceal in
hand that will do that kind of stuff... and mucho safer too.
Msg #17138 Dated 22:27:09 09-02-91 17094 <--> 17160
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
I knew you were a sick unit.... arhgh...aarhhghgghhg choke...
Msg #17139 Dated 22:27:14 09-02-91 17095 <--> 17143
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Since i have A> lost interest and B> lost track of what we are
saying i guess whatever you want is fine by ME.
Msg #17140 Dated 22:27:20 09-02-91 17096 <--> 17142
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
YOU MUST BE SOME KIND OF REVERSE MINDREADER... THE TEACH INS HAVE
BEEN SCRAPPED FOR THE COMING SEMINAR... BUT IF ENUF COMPLAINTS
ARE HEARD AHEAD OF TIME... I WILL SEE IF I CAN CHANGE IT...
REMIND ME AGAIN SOON.
Msg #17141 Dated 22:27:27 09-02-91 -> 17195
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: SANTA
ALMOST RUNNING... I did one to Santa Claus and the computer (mine)
locked up and I had to boot to get out... when the MAGIC! system
said "no such person registered" or something like that... ahr.
Msg #17142 Dated 22:27:35 09-02-91 17105 <--> 17148
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I refuse to answer this message on grounds that it might incinerate
me. I can't go to footballs games, cuz when they huddle I KNOW THEY
ARE TALKING ABOUT ME. (2ND line from Roy Benson's act).
Msg #17143 Dated 22:27:42 09-02-91 17106 <--> 17144
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Count me in for a video as long as it is 3D.
Msg #17144 Dated 22:27:47 09-02-91 17108 <--> 17147
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
You could use the old "hang your coat over the lens" move if you
had to... har...
Msg #17145 Dated 22:27:52 09-02-91 17110 <--> 17149
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
I recall Ken Brooke having a Flea Circus manuscript some years ago.
I will look see if it is in my vast, or half vast, collection.
Msg #17147 Dated 22:28:08 09-02-91 17120 <--> 17156
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I was Recturing in Japan. (I still have the ticket with the word
"R"ecture printed on it) -- and in the middle of things this
local fellow commences to roll in with a HUGE reel to reel audio
system, set it up, put up a three fold screen to hide himself from
the audience (he did arrive a bit late I had already started) then
came into view and set up a huge boom mike. He had headset on
and scurried back out of the way behind the screen.
.
Wellllll..... I couldn't resist..... Big silly grin on my face,
I gestured to the audience, pointing to the screen, then the mike,
then walked over to the mike and let out the most insane.....
L O U D E S T *S*C*R*E*A*M* I COULD.... looked behind the
Screen and mimed to the aud with a crazy look on my face, pointing
to MY EARS as if I was the guy behind the screen.... 10 minute
wait for laff to stop.... I couldn't resist.
.
But hey... I am easy. You wanna tape me go for it... just be nice
enuf to give me the first copy then cut me in on sales, legal
or Illegal....
.
I am different as I don't depend on this to make MY LIVING....I
only wanna have a good time and pass some of the nutcase stuff I
have come up with on to others to think about and improve....
Msg #17148 Dated 22:28:33 09-02-91 17122 <--> 17154
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
The point I was making was that magicalumpen (and others) go to
conventions as if they were ONE GREAT BIG LECTURE... SHOWS AND ALL,
and that ALL THE MATERIAL is their's for the stealing....
Msg #17149 Dated 22:28:40 09-02-91 17123 <--> 17151
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TONIGHT
You need a low stool. Or is that to milk a snake?
Msg #17150 Dated 22:28:45 09-02-91 17128 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: GARY PLANTS (X)
Re: TV
I was channel hopping trying to see who might be on the Telethon,
and didn't see 100-percent of the Houdini flick. Seems that the
ending DID NOT have HH die.... maybe we will see Houdini II soon?
Msg #17151 Dated 22:28:51 09-02-91 17133 <--> 17161
From: PETE BIRO
To: EDDIE GOLDSTEIN
Re: TONIGHT
If you know me and my writing... I hope you didn't take me seriously.
Funny thing about MOST jugglers... they like to see others do the
stuff they come up with... they share in sessions new ball moves
and variations. Much friendlier...
I think the reason is that the stuff is HARD to do and if another
Jug gets it down, it is a fair deal... he is welcome to the move.
Msg #17152 Dated 23:56:00 09-02-91 17135 <--> 17153
From: MIKE KING
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Amen brother. Just know I will draw attention to myself driving down
Hollywood Blvd. With that attached to the vehicle. Then again,
knowing that it is Hollywood Blvd, probally noone would notice.
Msg #17153 Dated 23:58:02 09-02-91 17136 <-
From: MIKE KING
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SCRIPT
Argh is right. Beers all around!!! May the magical spirit of the Pig
nosed structure from Hell be with you. MIKE.
Msg #17154 Dated 0:07:48 09-03-91 17148 <--> 17164
From: EVAN KATZ
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I understood. I'm not stoopid, you know.
Msg #17156 Dated 0:10:56 09-03-91 17114 <--> 17158
From: T A WATERS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Of distinctions: I make one between teaching and learning -- when I
TEACH, it is my responsibility; when they LEARN, it is theirs. I would
assume that some -- not all -- will learn something from my lectures,
but I am not in that situation teaching them. This is a critical
distinction, having to do with the duty of a lecturer as opposed to a
teacher.
And no, I don'
(Line glitch) And no, I don't find the concept of video notes
incomprehensible; I find it to be a situation which I do not want to
occur in my lectures, because my lectures are a live experience meant
for the people in front of me at that moment. If my audience cannot
absorb the information in the lecture format I choose -- which is to do
a lecture, not conduct a class -- then they should not come to my
lectures...
...which is something I said about a hundred messages or so ago, and
which I dearly hope I will not be saying a hundred messages from now.
Msg #17158 Dated 0:17:05 09-03-91 17115 <--> 17159
From: T A WATERS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Obviously, if you don't think Truby (or whoever) is worth it to you,
you shouldn't go. Others do. He is free to make his rules, and you
are free not to buy his product. That makes neither of you "wrong."
Msg #17159 Dated 0:18:41 09-03-91 17116 <--> 17166
From: T A WATERS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
The difference might be that people respect composers...
Msg #17160 Dated 0:18:52 09-03-91 17134 <--> 17181
From: EVAN KATZ
To: EDDIE GOLDSTEIN
Re: AUGUST GENII
Eddie --
Are you sure about this? My ninth grade math is pretty far behind me,
but I thought I remembered this stuff. I've never heard of an
undefined number. Hm. Sure?
Msg #17161 Dated 0:19:50 09-03-91 17110 <--> 17162
From: EVAN KATZ
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Okay, truth or dare. Fleas or not?
Msg #17162 Dated 0:20:29 09-03-91 17123 <--> 17163
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TONIGHT
No kidding. I watched Heckler put the harness on many a flea. It is
a straight piece of wire with a loop (open) at one end; you slip it
around the flea's neck (yes, they have necks) and then close it. This
last is the tricky part, because it is easy to decapitate your
prospective performer at this, ah, juncture.
Of course you have to do it again in six weeks, which is the career
and life span of a performing flea.
Msg #17163 Dated 0:23:31 09-03-91 17161 <--> 17180
From: T A WATERS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: TONIGHT
In my showbiz career, I have only worked with the genuine article; it
is worth noting that Heckler's was one of the longest running shows in
New York -- over forty years.
Msg #17164 Dated 0:24:45 09-03-91 17121 <--> 17165
From: T A WATERS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
As I guess you know by now, I find the definitions pretty clearly
distinct. If magicians as a group have taken to misusing a term, that
is their problem. If I advertised a teach-in, and THEN just lectured,
I would be ripping them off -- but I don't.
Msg #17165 Dated 0:27:06 09-03-91 17122 <--> 17183
From: T A WATERS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Actually, I thought we were talking about people paying to see a
lecture.
Msg #17166 Dated 0:20:17 09-03-91 17117 <--> 17169
From: EVAN KATZ
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I concur on all three points. What is interesting to me is the
gulf in perspective between lecturer and attendee. Of course one would
assume there would be a marked differnce in perspective, but I didn't
think it would be this great.
In your three-point model, the lecturer and attendees are exercising
their rights in the free market, by suppling and purchasing only what
they freely desire. This, I believe, happens as a matter of course.
But point two, which involves the booker taking the extra effort to
determine details about the performer's lecture, and then communicate
them to the attendees, does not happen at all often enough. I honestly
do not believe that bookers perceive this to be their routine
responsibilty.
Msg #17167 Dated 0:27:37 09-03-91 -> 17174
From: EVAN KATZ
To: ALL
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
Next time you enter an elevator, look around to see if it has a phone.
If it does, you will usually see a notice near the phone that reads
exactly like this:
In the event of an emergency, use telephone
to summon help "if furnished"
Perhaps some of you have already caught on. Why on earth would anyone
put the words "if furnished" in quotes in this instance? Yet there
they are, in elevators across the country. I don't get it. If anyone
has ideas on this, or has noticed this, please let me know. And then
I'll let you know what connection this has to magic.
Msg #17169 Dated 0:31:00 09-03-91 17156 <--> 17171
From: EVAN KATZ
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I see the future... let me concentrate... an image is forming... I see
message number 17256... it is from T A WATERS... it is about... VIDEO
NOTE TAKE AT LECTURES!
Msg #17170 Dated 0:31:46 09-03-91 17129 <--> 17178
From: T A WATERS
To: GARY PLANTS (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
There is a manuscript by De Vega called THE DEVIL'S WHISPER AND ITS
DEVELOPMENT; very hard to find but might be useful.
Msg #17171 Dated 0:32:35 09-03-91 17158 <--> 17173
From: EVAN KATZ
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
This is, of course, obvious.
Msg #17172 Dated 0:33:18 09-03-91 17132 <--> 17192
From: T A WATERS
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Yeah, DEVICE AND ILLUSION is terrific; Jim also has a very nice version
of No Guts in the SQUARE ONE book that is the Stan Allen premium.
Msg #17173 Dated 0:35:40 09-03-91 17169 <--> 17177
From: T A WATERS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Doesn't using a swami gimmick on the BBS screw up your screen?
Msg #17174 Dated 0:36:30 09-03-91 17167 <--> 17196
From: T A WATERS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
That elevator message has always struck me as incomplete; shouldn't it
continue? Something like "If no phone IS furnished -- well -- you're
shit out of luck."
Msg #17176 Dated 0:39:18 09-03-91 17020 <--> 17213
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
Tabby,
I bought that video (Victor Borge). When I ordered, the offered
an "upgrade" to 90 min's for only $9.00 more. (The original is 45
minutes and has only half his show). IT'S WORTH IT!!! All his
classic routines, including his "phonetic punctuation" and
"inflationary language". He's coming to Las Vegas sometime this
fall and I'm going to be the first in line!
David (the other one)
Msg #17177 Dated 0:39:27 09-03-91 17025 <--> 17179
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Evan (and others),
I've been staying out of this debate since it's obviously more
complicated than originally assumed. I don't necessarily want to
enter into an arguement with anyone on this as I don't have the
time or money (phone bill just came in). Your message supports my
personal viewpoint more than any other right now, but I can live
with Max's decision not to allow taping too.
I'm one that has assumed that a "lecture" is meant to be a
teaching session, although not a very good one, preferring one on
one, or at least, small group "teach-in's". I'm sorry that others
(mostly lecturers) don't feel that way and wonder what their aims
are if not to teach something? I know I will never be another Max
Maven or T.A. Waters, and I don't intend to be, but when they
detail EXACTLY some move or method, isn't it assumed that we try
to LEARN from it? If not, WHY ARE WE THERE ANYWAY? If it's their
intention that we NOT learn anything, I can stay home and watch
television with David L. and save the money.
You can ask Jeff Busby about my position on pirate videos,
probably being the only one to voluntarily return one and buy a
legitimate copy to replace it entirely at my own expense.
I would like to see more "lecturers" offer video notes, either of
the session I attend or previously prepared material following
the outline of the lecture. I have been caught several times by
"It's in the notes" only to find that they are not, or that notes
aren't even available!
Idea: Similar to software companies who limit the usefulness of
software by placing heavy emphasis on documentation, thereby
making the disk alone virtually useless, why don't lecturers (or
teachers) offer video notes as an ENHANCEMENT to paper notes. By
referring to a page number or diagram during the taping, the tape
alone becomes useless unless you have the accompanying notes.
This makes casual copying not impossible, but inconvenient and
costly. I know if I saw a tape like this, I would view it as an
incentive to attend the next lecture and see for myself the
wonders they have to offer.
I know not all people would go for this, but the ones who do
might have a better chance at reaching todays "techno-consumer".
(Of course I'm referring to the "average" lecturer/instructor,
Max and T.A. are both exempted from the above comments)
David (the other one)
Msg #17178 Dated 0:40:08 09-03-91 17090 <--> 17194
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Look for Larry Jenning's "Neo Classics" booklet. He has a routine
using the chemicals but he warns against improper use as several
serious injuries have occurred. Unfortunately (or perhaps
fortunately) he does not reveal the source or composition of the
necessary chemicals.
It reminds me of an old effect requiring wiring yourself to house
current through plates in your shoes. It might have worked 100
years ago, but why take the chance?
David (the other one)
Msg #17179 Dated 0:40:19 09-03-91 17095 <--> 17185
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
David,
My sentiments exactly! I'd rather dedicate my time to paying
attention to the lecturer anyway. I'd be the first to buy an
"Official Video Note" assuming the lecture was worth remembering
in the first place.
David (the other one)
Msg #17180 Dated 0:45:53 09-03-91 17162 <--> 17208
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
What do you feed 'em? Is some poor dog kept handy?
Msg #17181 Dated 0:48:59 09-03-91 17138 <--> 17182
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
Sick is my specialty, Biro. By the way, I came across, but didn't buy,
an interestind CD today - Irish accordion music.
Msg #17182 Dated 0:53:05 09-03-91 17160 <--> 17204
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
I just spoke with our resident expert in mathematics and she said that
it is _definitely_ _not_ imaginary. That it may either be considered
"undefined" or it may be considered as infinite. She said that on a
calculator, dividing by 0 is considered an error.
Msg #17183 Dated 0:55:58 09-03-91 17140 <--> 17184
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Get 'em to put the teach-ins back IN! DM is such a great seminar it
would be hard to say what is "best" but they are certainly way up there
on the list. And please make sure we have a MAGIC! session while you
are at it!
Msg #17184 Dated 0:58:37 09-03-91 17148 <--> 17205
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I wouldn't worry about it, Pete. Most of 'em never get around to using
any of the stuff they "steal." They collect it, tresure it, but the
vast majority never perform it.
Msg #17185 Dated 1:00:41 09-03-91 17106 <--> 17186
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
If you are willing to let me contact them ahead of time and arrange
official video notes for those who wish to have them made, I would be
more than happy to do so. That has been my contention all along, at
least in this present incarnation of the video-note discussion - that
there be one official video available, that it be reasonably priced,
and that the sale of it is beneficial to the lecturers.
Msg #17186 Dated 1:05:17 09-03-91 17117 <--> 17187
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
And how many of 'em ever do that, Max? The Castle merely announces who
is lecturing, no topic, no description, no nothing. Same with every
magic convention I have ever been to - just a name and a time.
In the world outside of magic, what you propose IS generally done - the
lecture has a title and there is always a brief description in the
convention booklet or the meeting mailing.
Msg #17187 Dated 1:08:54 09-03-91 17139 <--> 17188
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Fine - as long as it is fine by you, it is fine by me. Will be
expecting your check.
Msg #17188 Dated 1:11:28 09-03-91 17156 <--> 17189
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I would submit, T A, that if they are not learning, then by definition
you are not teaching.
Msg #17189 Dated 1:15:20 09-03-91 17177 <--> 17190
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
A great message, David (the other one) - thank you. I would like to
see the video-notes be of the actual session one attended whenever
possible - this isn't terribly hard to do as we are talking about
casual video here, not studio work. Too often I've been burned by even
preprepared lecture notes - either by the lecturer saying "it's in the
notes" when it isn't or by the notes being obsolete. I'm afraid that
a preprepared video would be the same way, perhaps even worse.
It seems to me that "official" video-notes are a win-win situation -
the attendee gets a superior product and the lecturer gets extra
income.
Msg #17190 Dated 1:19:46 09-03-91 17179 <--> 17207
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
If the video notes are resonably priced, I'm sure that a LOT of
attendees will buy them. You might be first in line, but I would be
right behind you - with the same caveat, that the lecture be worth
remembering in the first place. And I agree, the increased guarantee
that there would really be good video notes would also allow me to
concentrate on, and enjoy, the lecture to a much greater extent.
Msg #17191 Dated 1:21:41 09-03-91 17107 <--> 17216
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SAME TO YOU
HA! We went TO THE BALLPARK for the ballpark franks! Nathan is a
baseball freak and we were the recipients of Marvin Stern's kindness.
But I am going to have to ask him to only offer us tickets to 9 inning
games - Nathan was wiped out at 11:30 p.m. at the start of the 11th
inning. Up until that point, however, he had a terrific time -
screaming for the team, eating all the junk, you name it.
Msg #17192 Dated 1:25:13 09-03-91 17130 <--> 17221
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Could be too much artificial sweetner in your diet, Mike. There are
some brands that are known to cause short term memory loss. But I
suffer from the same problem and I don't use artificial sweetners. I
do, however, live within a mile of a high-tension electric line - maybe
I should buy one of those things (I can't remember what you call 'em)
that Jerry Burton was selling.
Msg #17193 Dated 1:30:38 09-03-91 17113 <--> 17368
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Sorry I can't refer to the Oxford to see what your elipses covered. I
have the microfilm edition and made the awful mistake of sneezing one
afternoon.
Msg #17194 Dated 1:35:26 09-03-91 17178 <--> 17200
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
I used to do an effect with a cylinder fuse and house current - a
series circuit with a 75-watt light bulb and two copper strips. You
held the fuse in your hand and placed it on the strips - causing the
bulb to light. The secret was to keep your fingers ABOVE the contact
points - the fuse was a better conductor than the body, so the current
went thru the fuse. Someone in the audience proclaimed his doubts
about the effect, so I asked him to try it; switching in a blown fuse.
After he was knocked across the room, he didn't argue any more.
BUT I would NOT recommend this bit to anyone for any reason, nor would
I suggest the use of any similar effects, nor will I assume any
responsibility for anyone dumb enough to try this, or any related,
effects.
Msg #17195 Dated 1:41:48 09-03-91 17141 <--> 17248
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SANTA
Yeah, Santa hasn't sent in his subscription check yet. Sorry to hear
that it locked up - probably you just needed to follow the directions
at the bottom of the screen to end the upload - something like press
the ESC key - but what would I know?
Msg #17196 Dated 1:45:48 09-03-91 17174 <--> 17210
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
T A -
You are the second person to test this particular term here on MAGIC!
I'd appreciate it if you would substitute "If no phone IS furnished --
well -- you are, unfortunately, out of luck." Unless, of course, you
can show me the term in any of your published magic material.
Msg #17199 Dated 2:49:16 09-03-91 16555 <--> 17249
From: WAYNE SKENES
To: GARY PLANTS (X)
Re: RICKY JAY
Where I can I find some info on MacDonalds Aces? I am referring to the
Ricky Jay performance on Letterman. Is this card manipulation published
anywhere???
Msg #17200 Dated 4:32:52 09-03-91 17129 <--> 17201
From: DOUG SMITH
To: GARY PLANTS (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Thanks for the information. You do have a wealth of information. The
material I gain will be used in a talk to Illinois chemistry teachers.
This is my second invite. I would be glad togive you a call on a
weekend to share ideas, but I gather you are far ahead of on the magic
part. Since I have an AT and T package the weekend calls are
reasonable. By the way, I ususally donot tell students how things are
done by ask them to do problems solving and suggest methods to
accomplish the same ideas.
Msg #17201 Dated 4:37:04 09-03-91 17137 <--> 17202
From: DOUG SMITH
To: PTEBIRO (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Thanks for the input. At the Baltimore IBM one of the people in
Theatre Effects did the flashing fingertips about six times for me. He
seemed to have the idea down. For myself, I thougt I would use a small
amount wearing leather gloves the first time.
Msg #17202 Dated 4:40:36 09-03-91 17178 <--> 17203
From: DOUG SMITH
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Thanks. I will try and get the "Neo Classics" book. Part of my
concern is for young magicians to purchase some of the effects or read
about them and not have adequate advice and experience. For the talk
i am planning my goal is to inform teachers and then give samples of
how magicians use the knowledge, hoping that some teacher s try them.
Again the system has provided my with knowledge,, ideas, qand opinions
that I could not get any other way.
Msg #17203 Dated 4:46:35 09-03-91 17194 <--> 17217
From: DOUG SMITH
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Again your system hasprovided me with information that is not available
to me locally. Thanks for providing the system.
Msg #17204 Dated 7:40:16 09-03-91 17134 <--> 17240
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EDDIE GOLDSTEIN
Re: AUGUST GENII
An undefined number! I'm starting to like you better already.
Msg #17205 Dated 7:40:21 09-03-91 17140 <--> 17206
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
What is a reverse mindreader?
Msg #17206 Dated 7:40:26 09-03-91 17142 <--> 17209
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I've been reading of late, ILLUSION SHOW, the David Bamberg autobiog
and it seems like he mentions Roy Benson unless it was in the cursory
Sphinx I tend to glance through to get started.
Msg #17207 Dated 7:40:32 09-03-91 17143 <--> 17212
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Maybe you could do it in reverse 3D.
Msg #17208 Dated 7:40:38 09-03-91 17162 <--> 17235
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Well, now, at least, I have a use for the 50 meters of .004 stainless
wire Gloria brought me from the vet. Hey, a source for fleas. I'd
better stock up before we move. Of course, after the big flea
epidemic of 1987, I can think of a more satisfying use for the wire
and their little necks.
Msg #17209 Dated 7:40:46 09-03-91 17164 <--> 17241
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
In the vein of_How To Talk Southern_ how bout a booklet on _How To
Talk Magic_?
Msg #17210 Dated 7:40:52 09-03-91 17167 <--> 17236
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
In the event of misunderstanding, use quotation marks, if furnished.
It seems in the context used that "if furnished" must point to some
wording in the state or city safety codes. After watching the working
of govt the past six years of living in the DC area (DC District Gov)
they might require the tele by law but made the help part optional
to satisfy some big taxpayer or maybe "if furnished" was referring
to the telephone.
Msg #17212 Dated 7:41:09 09-03-91 17173 <--> 17215
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I think Evan is the first user of the under nail mouse pen.
Msg #17213 Dated 7:41:14 09-03-91 17176 <--> 17226
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
Yeah man. Victor Borge. Next time I see the ad I'm gonna order it.
Thing has me nervous is Gloria has been watching the shopping chanel
lately and I don't want to set some kind of precedent. Borge is a
classic classic. Am glad he/they put his performance on video and are
offering it at a reasonable price. Remember a few years ago when the
vid stuff cost a fortune to buy?
Msg #17215 Dated 7:41:40 09-03-91 17188 <--> 17218
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Question. If, no learning, no teaching; then if no one is listening
does it mean that you are not speaking?
Msg #17216 Dated 7:41:45 09-03-91 17191 <--> 17227
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: SAME TO YOU
I've got a gimmicked deck that I'm putting together for Nathan. I
got the stuff for it, but haven't found the time.
Msg #17217 Dated 7:41:51 09-03-91 17203 <--> 17220
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Say! Are you doing a lecture or a teach-in?
Msg #17218 Dated 7:54:35 09-03-91 17177 <--> 17219
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I think part of the problem has been that as the magic lecture became
a burgeoning field some _less than qualified_ individuals entered the
lecture marketplace. This certaily coloured the attendees attitudes
toward all lecturers, much as unqualified magicians in the area of
performance has coloured the public's eye view of party magic. I
recently sent a questionairrre to those slated to lecture at my Music
City Conclave making note of the recent discussions on MAGIC!
requesting certain information on the subject of video notetaking in
their lectures as well as asking them to think about any sleights and
moves that might be a prereq to their lecture and to provide me with
information on the same. While at the same time I have faith in
some certain individuals in the system, I don't have faith in the
system.
Msg #17219 Dated 7:54:47 09-03-91 17185 <--> 17223
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I would certainly be willing to discuss it furthur. Several
things cross my mind right now. It seems only fair that the
distribution of the vid notes be only to those attending the
event. I would expect that some attendees would copy and
offer the tape to their friends and some lecturers would copy
and offer the tape for sale. Somehow, this bothers me.
.
.
Offer me a solution to the problem.
Msg #17220 Dated 7:55:08 09-03-91 17203 <--> 17247
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Just remember that in dealing with some of this chemical and electrical
stuff, you are playing with danger. So, as Penn & Teller are fond of
saying - "Don't try this at home!"
Msg #17221 Dated 8:03:53 09-03-91 17172 <--> 17222
From: MIKE KING
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Great, I will check it out. Thanks for the tip. MIKE.
Msg #17222 Dated 8:04:52 09-03-91 17192 <--> 17228
From: MIKE KING
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Yea, was talking with marvin the other day and he was complaining about
the same thing. I think i just try and remember to much stuff. Keep
it all RAM. Maybe should try to use my brain as a ROM device for
awhile.
MIKE>
Msg #17223 Dated 8:01:27 09-03-91 17215 <--> 17224
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Hardly a syllogism, T A. Teaching is more than speaking. The primary
definition of teach, in my dictionary, is "to cause to know a subject."
There are a great many words for standing in front of a group and
haranguing them to no effect, but "teaching" is not one of them.
Perhaps what is needed is a lecture on lectures for lecturers.
Msg #17224 Dated 8:09:57 09-03-91 17219 <--> 17225
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
OK, let's talk it through - best way might be via phone - will try to
give you a call later.
Msg #17225 Dated 8:10:53 09-03-91 17224 <--> 17234
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
And, lest the members of MAGIC! think that they will be deprived of
knowing what the results of the phone call are, a summary will be
posted here.
Msg #17226 Dated 8:13:30 09-03-91 17213 <--> 17238
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
Thanks for the info on the Victor Borge tape, David. I've been
watching the ads and thinking about it. Next time I'll give 'em a
cal. Your infoon the extra $9 was _most_ _helpful_ as that is just
the kind of question that would have killed their pitch for me. Now
that I know it is worth it, I'll be more lenient.
Msg #17227 Dated 8:15:07 09-03-91 17216 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: SAME TO YOU
Great about the gimmicked deck. We're trying to work out the details
of his performance at his own upcomming birthday party since he has
indicated a desire to work it. Haven't got a single good idea on what
to do yet since he does mostly close-up and there will be about 80
people there. I checked Hollywood Magic for larger props but all were
mucho dinero. Will welcome any suggestions you or others may have - it
has to be something easy, visually appealing to 3-year olds, look
magical to adults (at least to some extent), and not require too much
patter.
Msg #17228 Dated 8:18:27 09-03-91 17222 <--> 17256
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Yes - don't try to do RAM cram on your brain. I leave myself little
notes, but I forget to read 'em. I also head off to do something and
forget where I was going. Even worse, I sometimes forget if I've
already done the thing. That's pretty bad, especially when the note is
something like "Eat lunch."
Msg #17229 Dated 9:06:18 09-03-91 16752 <--> 17231
From: CINDY SZERLIP
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ROTH REVIEW
It's part of his "Shell Coins Across" effect. Yes it's in his lecture
notes. It's the pass he uses for the fourth coin.
Msg #17231 Dated 9:16:09 09-03-91 17229 <--> 17445
From: PETE BIRO
To: CINDY SZERLIP (X)
Re: ROTH REVIEW
I found the notes the other night and have worked on it. I though
you were talking about doing a french drop not just holding the coins
in that grip... I have worked up a nice versijon of my own on that
routine and as soon as finalised... will post. Is a bit easier to do.
Msg #17234 Dated 9:17:33 09-03-91 17158 <--> 17243
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
The best way to LEARN from a lecturer is to get in touch with
him/her early and offer a free room and limo service, provided by
you... just don't bore them with packet tricks during their stay.
Msg #17235 Dated 9:17:42 09-03-91 17162 <--> 17239
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
That is why there are so few flea circuses today... the cost of
new posters and publicity photos every six weeks is as killer.
By the way, if you care, fleas CANNOT LIVE in Las Vegas... hence
no flea circuses in the entertainment capital of the world.
Got this from a veteranarian (takes care of Burton's birds).
Msg #17236 Dated 9:17:50 09-03-91 17167 <--> 17237
From: PETE BIRO
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
I like the "Permit posted in office" -- I usually ask people in an
elevator if they would like to join me in a visit to the office to
look at the permit.
The best fun in an elevator is to lay on the floor just when
the elevator stops in the lobby. When the door opens you get up
saying "Wow... this thing stops fast...."
Msg #17237 Dated 9:18:00 09-03-91 17174 <--> 17287
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
I was stuck in an office building late one Sunday Night (I worked
init and the joint closed while i was laboring away) so when I
went into the lift to use the phone the operator that answered
said "I cannot forward calls except to the repair man" -- I told
her it was an emergency and to call the cops... she wouldn't do
it. I finally threw a dime with a note to a passerby who did call
the cops. I was in the lobby for over an hour looking out thru
glass doors. Finally, when the cops got there they yelled thru
the doors "What would you have done if the building was on fire?"
I said, "I would have jumped out one of those windows..." Pointing
at a window alongside the door. So the cop said, "Well do it now
it's only 4 feet to the ground."
Boy was I embarassed.... I flipped open the window and literally
stepped out onto the sidewalk!
.
Why do I tell these dumb stories on myself?
Msg #17238 Dated 9:18:18 09-03-91 17176 <--> 17255
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
David... let us know when Borga is doing VEgas... I might be able
to make it...
Msg #17239 Dated 9:18:24 09-03-91 17180 <--> 17260
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Let's hope the dog isn't POOR!
Msg #17240 Dated 9:18:29 09-03-91 17181 <--> 17272
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
The Irish are the only folks that blow into accordions.
Msg #17241 Dated 9:18:34 09-03-91 17183 <--> 17242
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Wells is in charge of the Schedule at the DS, AND MAGIC! IS ON THE
SKED -- GOOD TIME TOO.... Leave a message for Wells screaming for
the teech in... and to video note take it....har
Msg #17242 Dated 9:18:40 09-03-91 17184 <--> 17250
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Do that make it good? I worry. One time my (ex) wife and I went to
see a guy do a show... she turned to me and said, "I have already
counted 10 lines out of your act....."
Msg #17243 Dated 9:18:47 09-03-91 17185 <--> 17244
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Does this mean you will be at the Music City Conclave?
Msg #17244 Dated 9:18:53 09-03-91 17186 <--> 17245
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Now there is a good point... MEBBE the lecture society of magic
America should set up the rules.... When did you way we were going
to start that?
Msg #17245 Dated 9:19:01 09-03-91 17187 <--> 17246
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Fine? When did I get a Fine?
Msg #17246 Dated 9:19:06 09-03-91 17189 <--> 17252
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
They would have to be the actual session (especially in my case)
because a lecture often (always in my case) takes a different
course, based on the attendees interests and level of knowledge.
Which many lectureres read and adjust to. Some, unfortunately,
or MOST, do not... they do it by rote.
Msg #17247 Dated 9:19:16 09-03-91 17194 <--> 17261
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
So then why did you mention it if you don't want anybody to do it.
Seriously, does ANYONE know if the old CAR BOMBS are still available
anywhere? You know, the kind you used to put to a spark plug wire
under the hood of some pals car... when he started it there would
be a large WHHHHHHHHHHHHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE noise... then
smoke and bang.
I would like to get a few of these for a stage effect. We used to
do a killer gag. Had a suitcase wired with an old ford coil. There
was an on/off switch hidden by the handle. On the base was a
switch that went off when the suitcase was picked up. I would walk
onstage, set the case down (throw the on/off switch) and then when
the spectator picked it up..... whhhheeeeeeeeeeeeeeee bang....
great stuff.....
I bet it would be tuff to go through airport security with one
nowadays.... hahahaha
Msg #17248 Dated 9:19:34 09-03-91 17195 <--> 17642
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: SANTA
I tried ESC F1 all known modes of stopping... only CTRL ALT DEL
worked....
Msg #17249 Dated 9:19:40 09-03-91 17199 <--> 17289
From: PETE BIRO
To: WAYNE SKENES (X)
Re: RICKY JAY
Ricky isn't quite doing MacDonald's Aces.. The lead in etc., is
his own combination. The best versions are in print. Derek Dingle
has one in the newer Stars of Magic. The original (or at least the
first one I ever read) is in More Inner Secrets of Card Magic,
Dai Vernon (Ganson) on page 26.
I am sure there are other variants in many card books and others
here will surely know where. If and when you do get into it, I
would suggest working out your own variants on the vanish of the
aces. To my recollection in the Vernon manscipt they are all
done the same way, as MacDonald did them... he being ONE ARMED.
You might use that tack, talking about a one armed magician... I
don't know of anyone currently doing it the old original way...
So old it can be new again.
Msg #17250 Dated 9:19:55 09-03-91 17205 <--> 17251
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
A reverse mindreader? Well, uh, lets see... I think it is a mind
reader that skips pages and tells you stuff he already told ... er
I mean that you already told him/her?
Msg #17251 Dated 9:20:02 09-03-91 17206 <--> 17253
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Benson was one of the most HIP, talented, funniest magicians ever.
Msg #17252 Dated 9:20:07 09-03-91 17207 <--> 17254
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
You mean in D3?
Msg #17253 Dated 9:20:13 09-03-91 17209 <--> 17262
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Double lift, Erdnase bottom palm, Hofzinser top change, Hugard and
Braue, Channing Pollack and Irene Larsen. (Can anyone talk more
magic than this?)
Msg #17254 Dated 9:20:19 09-03-91 17223 <--> 17259
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
You just got to collate all these messages and issue them to all
prospective lecturers as the OFFICIAL word from the Magic Lecture
Association of Amerika.
Msg #17255 Dated 9:20:26 09-03-91 17226 <--> 17293
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
Offer them seven-fifty?
Msg #17256 Dated 9:20:31 09-03-91 17228 <--> 17265
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
You should try doing three shows a night... and get into a routine
and just before you do a major line... you wonder if you have
already just said it -- or was it the previous show???? Argh, Argh,
Argh... or did I already Argh?
Msg #17259 Dated 11:05:31 09-03-91 17234 <--> 17263
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
The best way to get the attention of a prospective talent buyer
coming to see your show to!
Msg #17260 Dated 11:05:39 09-03-91 17235 <--> 17271
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TONIGHT
That's good. Be a great photo contract for head shots on a three
ringer.
Msg #17261 Dated 11:05:45 09-03-91 17247 <--> 17274
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
That car bomb thing is great Pete. My cousin and I used to get those
things at a fireworks stand (fireworks are still legal in TN) and
pull them occasionally on innocent people visiting my Grandad's
used car lot outside his boat repair shop beside the Tyson's BBQ
shack in Americus, GA. Will check at Fat Boy's Fireworks in a
couple of weeks when I visit TN again.
Msg #17262 Dated 11:05:54 09-03-91 17250 <--> 17264
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Perhaps hindsight would fit the bill!
Msg #17263 Dated 11:05:59 09-03-91 17252 <--> 17267
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
D3 is good.
Msg #17264 Dated 11:06:03 09-03-91 17253 <--> 17273
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Locking flap exponents of the black art principle often do a Mexican
turnover when faced with naught else to accomplish a tabled change.
Msg #17265 Dated 11:06:09 09-03-91 17256 <--> 17275
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Trying singing four hours a night and forgetting what song you are
doing during an instrumental break. When with Mickey Gilley, I
experienced him doing the same song twice in a row. I pointed it
out to him one night and he said "They don't even notice. I didn't."
Same guy would stay til the last autograph seeker hand shaker left
the hall. Sometimes for hours.
Msg #17267 Dated 12:13:26 09-03-91 17243 <--> 17268
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I'm going to try to be at the Music City Conclave. It depends on how
much moola is available at hetime. Hoping to catch a ride on Max's
private jet.
Msg #17268 Dated 12:15:53 09-03-91 17244 <--> 17269
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
The problem with the Society of Magician Lecturers is that they could
never agree on ANYTHING - it would have to operate with no officers, no
constitution, no by-laws and..... no dues.
Msg #17269 Dated 12:17:39 09-03-91 17245 <--> 17270
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Fine? Did I type "Fine"? I meant to type "Sign." Like when you see
a sign in the skies.
Msg #17270 Dated 12:19:14 09-03-91 17246 <--> 17286
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I agree that the premise is a video-note of the lecture that you
attended, not of some other lecture. But the economics of the
situation may dictate some departure from that.
Msg #17271 Dated 12:22:13 09-03-91 17239 <--> 17311
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TONIGHT
The situation with the fleas and the dog seems kinda vampirish to me -
sort of like those "B" and "C" movies in which the vampire keeps
someone in the dungeon just for nourishment purposes.
Msg #17272 Dated 12:25:27 09-03-91 17240 <--> 17290
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
Yeah, but the accordians rust when they do that. I did buy a recording
of Baroque glass harmonica music. Its great - but I'm hoping someone
can tell me what the heck a glass harmonica looks like.
Msg #17273 Dated 12:35:55 09-03-91 17242 <--> 17285
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
No, of course that doesn't make it (stealing) good. But what are you
going to do with someone who steals your material? Boycott the show?
Sue the person? Or just shoot 'em?
Msg #17274 Dated 12:39:19 09-03-91 17247 <--> 17288
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
I mentioned it so that folks would know what NOT to do! As to the old
car bombs - they are probably now illegal, but you could do the same
thing - al la Sylvester the Jester - with a handful of electronics, AND
the thing could reset immediately and do it again and again. With a
magnet in your pantsleg, at the height of the suitcase, you could use
a reed switch - you pick it up, nary a sound, anyone else, bedlam!
Msg #17275 Dated 12:43:51 09-03-91 17256 <--> 17276
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Hey! You are writin' to a guy who ALWAYS tapes his stuff so that he
can find out what he did! Problem is, I forget to listen to the tape.
Msg #17276 Dated 12:44:56 09-03-91 17265 <--> 17279
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Think I told you - I once rescued Gilley's group when they got lost on
the way to the performance.
Msg #17278 Dated 12:57:48 09-03-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: JOYS OF TECHNOLOGY
Just had a funny one happen here at Techy Heaven. Turned on the CD of
the Sheffield Track Record and the opening chords created some harmonic
that triggered the facilities management system into turning the lights
on in the room! Can't get it to repeat though, or I'd write it up and
publish it on here.
Msg #17279 Dated 13:11:54 09-03-91 17228 <--> 17280
From: MIKE KING
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
This could get ugly!
Msg #17280 Dated 13:34:28 09-03-91 17279 <--> 17415
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
Have I already answered this?
Msg #17285 Dated 15:32:05 09-03-91 17184 <--> 17308
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I _would_ worry about it. The possibility that most magicians who cop
material don't actually get around to using it is moot. The fact that
they have the intent serves to build an attitude that stealing material
is not wrong, which in turn provides a context which accepts and even
justifies such theft by those who do get around to using it.
Msg #17286 Dated 15:34:08 09-03-91 17186 <--> 17297
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I concur, which is why I stated that I believe it is the
_responsibility_ of the booker to provide information on the lecturers.
At present, what little information exists is usually word-of-mouth,
and much of that, unfortunately, comes only after a given lecturer has
inflicted a bad lecture on a group.
Msg #17287 Dated 15:35:41 09-03-91 17196 <--> 17300
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
I can provide several examples from my own published writings...
Msg #17288 Dated 15:36:11 09-03-91 17201 <--> 17307
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
The "flashing fingertips" chemical bit is dangerous, because there are
three separate key points in handling which are contrary to the way in
which the average person executes the work. I have yet to see any
instruction sheet which explains these three things. (I, for one, will
not provide them, for the simple reason that I think this sort of
thing is best avoided in the first place.)
Msg #17289 Dated 15:38:45 09-03-91 17249 <--> 17299
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RICKY JAY
Derek Dingle did not have a MacDonald's Ace routine in the latter Stars
of Magic series; it was Frank Garcia.
Msg #17290 Dated 15:39:25 09-03-91 17272 <--> 17294
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
A glass harmonica looks like a shallow box in which there are lots of
glasses filled with varying amounts of water. The performer produces
notes by running his/her wet fingers around the rims; the quantity of
water in each glass dictates the tone. It's easy to produce the sound
(you can use this to be particularly irritating in a restaurant, as the
sounds can really carry, and the source is difficult to trace), but the
technique required to get the notes to flow is extremely difficult,
which is why the majority of orchestral performances written to include
the glass harmonica are, these days, accomplished using a flautist.
Msg #17291 Dated 15:46:26 09-03-91 -> 17292
From: BRUCE KALVER
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: HIMBER RING LECTURE
would you like a copy of the book? I'd be happy to send it to you to
review? Let me know.
Msg #17292 Dated 15:47:33 09-03-91 -> 17339
From: BRUCE KALVER
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HIMBER RING LECTURE
I would love to do a lecture there! If I can fit it into my schedule.
Give me a call collect and we'll see if we can arrange it. If you would
like to look over a copy of the book, let me know. My Phone number is
(401)467-8749. Fax #: 401-781-9881. Thanks for being interested!
Bruce.
Msg #17293 Dated 16:01:58 09-03-91 17238 <--> 17340
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
Pete,
Victor Borge will be in Vegas Nov 18th at 8:00 pm at Artemis Ham Hall
at UNLV. Tickets are $20.00,$30.00,$45.00, and $120.00. For $120.00 you
get invited to a champagne reception after the show.
I might be out of town during this (I hope not!). I'll remind you again
as it gets closer.
David (the other one)
Msg #17294 Dated 16:19:52 09-03-91 17290 <--> 17312
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
David,
If you can find the tape, watch Ricky Jay's "Learned Pigs" special.
He has a glass harmonica player performing. Good stuff!
Also my favorite segment has one of John Gaughan's automatons
performing a trapeze act.
If you don't have it, the next time you're in town you're welcome
to view it here.
David (the other one)
Msg #17297 Dated 16:40:22 09-03-91 17177 <--> 17298
From: EVAN KATZ
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I think your suggestion is bascially an excellent one, but have serious
doubts about the economics involved for all but a iy handfull of very
busy, very popular, international lecturers.
Msg #17298 Dated 16:42:27 09-03-91 17219 <--> 17309
From: EVAN KATZ
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Solution -- copy protect the video. The house that does this for
Hollywood is... the name escapes me, but I bet you there are systems
out there that are not too expensive at all that will discourage all
but the most determined potential copiers.
Also, the way you formatted your message is particularly diabolical.
You should be punished for your cleverness.
Msg #17299 Dated 16:42:29 09-03-91 17249 <--> 17372
From: WAYNE SKENES
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RICKY JAY
Hey Pete.. Which version do you think is superior??
One more question- Have you ever heard of "Magicians Nightly- The Magic
of Eddie Fechter- By Jerry Mentzer"??? There is a card effect in there
I have been looking for it for some time now...
Msg #17300 Dated 16:47:19 09-03-91 17210 <--> 17317
From: EVAN KATZ
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
I think you're probably right! "If Furnished" is probably a quote
stragith out of a reg. BRILLIANT!
Msg #17305 Dated 17:25:35 09-03-91 -> 17343
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: ABOOTS - DAY 4
MAGIC!-NL Mon 02 Sep 91 17:58
Tommy Wonder posted the following msg:
I think you are right. Part of the problem is when a performer
first does a silent piece, and then starts to talk. With almost
every
performer I did find this a bit odd. First you get used to the
performer being silent and then suddenly you have to adjust
again. This adjustment might give the feeling that the talking
does not fit the performer, but it does not really have to mean
that the talking does not fit. If the performer starts with a
talking piece, and then does a silent bit, I suppose the
adjustment is not so big, since
there is nothing added to the persona. Of course, it must be
natural that at that particular piece the performer does not
speak.
---
* Origin: MAGIC!-NL, Home of the wizards, +31-23-388725 (2:0/0)
---
Msg #17306 Dated 17:26:02 09-03-91 -> 17344
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
MAGIC!-NL Mon 02 Sep 91 18:13
Tommy Wonder posted the following msg:
I agree with you that it is senseless to ignore a new
technologie. Any new medium deserves to be investigated to see
hat the virtues are and if it can be used. Concerning video for
teaching magic, I did some thinking on that, and I think that
video in general is
highly overestimated. It seems to be perfect for magic, but there
are very serious drawbacks. For instance, with a book. You read
and at the same time imagine that you do the trick. If you can
imagine yourself doing the trick with ease, than probably the
trick will fit you to a certain extent. But more important, when
you imagine
yourself doing the effect, you will imagine it with your own
motorism, your own type of gestures. This is great. You will have
immediately an idea of how YOU would do the effect. This
imagination step is very important.
With video, this step is not there. It is extremely hard to learn
from video, and not adopt mannerisms and gestures from the
performer on the tape. It makes it harder, since you do not need
to translate the effect to yourself. With video you first have to
unlearn the
mannerisms of the performer, you have to clear your mind of that.
That is not only hard, but in many cases may be even impossible.
Video makes learning magic much harder than learning from a book.
Of course there are exceptions, where video can help, but I am
convinced that those cases where video is the better medium are
less than once in a thousand times.
Most people however think that video is the better medium in most
cases, not realising what they are missing out, or better said,
not realising that to translate the effect towards yourself
becomes
virtually impossible. From a book it might seem harder to learn,
and it may take a bit longer, but the result is that you really
learn, where in the case of video one merely thinks one has
learned.
Video is way too much precise and does not force you to think and
adapt for yourself. My problem is not in accepting video or other
new mediums or not. My problem is more:'Should I give what people
think they need, or
should I give what I think they need'. Any approach is valid, but
when it comes to really trying to upgrade magic, I prefer to do
what I think is best, and that usually means no video.
But I do agree, we should alwways keep an open mind towards new
mediums.
---
* Origin: MAGIC!-NL, Home of the wizards, +31-23-388725 (2:0/0)
---
Msg #17307 Dated 17:28:33 09-03-91 17261 <--> 17314
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Yo... sounds good to me... will show you the layout on the case
when you is here.... can make a few if you wish.
Msg #17308 Dated 17:28:40 09-03-91 17264 <--> 17313
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
YOP... the A and T packages arrived at the same time... wowzooooo
Uh, what else? I am cooking chicken noodle soup right now.
I am going to see Leno Thursday to see his car collection!
Msg #17309 Dated 17:28:46 09-03-91 17267 <--> 17310
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
You know that passengers must sit outside!
Msg #17310 Dated 17:28:51 09-03-91 17268 <--> 17316
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
And I would add, "NO S**T", but it ain't polite.
Msg #17311 Dated 17:28:56 09-03-91 17271 <--> 17360
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: TONIGHT
I always did.
Msg #17312 Dated 17:29:01 09-03-91 17272 <--> 17336
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
Like a sweet potatoe, but you can see through it. Good to keep an
eye on the spit level.
Msg #17313 Dated 17:29:07 09-03-91 17273 <--> 17319
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Depends... I am out of bullets now, so that would be out... hmmmm
Msg #17314 Dated 17:29:11 09-03-91 17274 <--> 17335
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Sounds wonder ful to me... I got a reed switch and magnet, what
else do I need?
Msg #17315 Dated 17:29:17 09-03-91 -> 17345
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: LANCE'S SHOW
Ee;17261
There seeeeeems to be some confusion regarding the Oct. 9 attending
of the Lance Burton show at the Hacienda Hotel and Casino in Las
Vegas.... soooooo here is the real story....
.
Tabman and I (and hopefully the beloved SYSOP) (as opposed to a
non-beloved one?) will be in the Entertainment Capitol of the World
that day/night.
.
We think it would be good if others on MAGIC! and a whole lot of
just plain spectators... would attend.
.
The plan is the second show on the night of Oct. 9, a Wednesday.
Lance does not work Tuesday nights.
And the second show utilizes far less clothing than the first show.
.
So, the way to do it is to call the Hacienda and make your own
reservations for that show. 1-800-634-6655. It only costs around
$15.00 and you don't have to buy drinks, they have a separate bar
in the back of the room. No pressure, no nuttin.
.
I have some PRIVATE BUSINESS to work on earlier with Lance. I will
TRY to have a special set up for anyone on MAGIC! to use the
"Invited Guest Line" -- THIS IS NOT CONFIRMED YET. However, the show
is not usually SOLD OUT and you will have no problems getting in.
.
Additionally I will try to get a section, or row, or table that is
RESERVED... again WILL TRY....
.
There is literally NO ROOM backstage, so PLEASE don't try to go
backstage... What I am going to TRY TO SET UP.... is a meeting in
the Coffee Shop FOLLOWING THE SHOW.... to have a table and visit
with Lance at that time.
.
Remember NOTHING other than the fact that we are going to go to
the second show on Oct. 9th is set. No Free Tickets, no nuttin...
(Hey, Lance has to pay all the bills! As he is the producer)...
.
This is just a good way for members of MAGIC! to lend their support.
.
And... I would suggest that if we do get the good seating, you TIP
the Maitre'd... (the guy with the list, not the guy that seats you)
about $5.00 for a group of two or three. If more a couple of bucks
more would be nice.
.
Don't assume anything other than this message. I am posting this
because I have had a couple of phone calls from people thinking we
are doing something really special and I am organizing it. No.
You make your own reservations and pay... I will try to get us
slid in without waiting in line as I mentioned above and will TRY,
remember Lance could have other business or be too tired, TRY to
get a few minutes with him for any from MAGIC! in the Coffee Shop
after the show!
Msg #17316 Dated 18:01:36 09-03-91 17298 <--> 17324
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
It's a doggone shame, that some rotten apples have spoiled all the
free give and take that should abound. To have to worry about video
falling into the wrong hands. The whole thing bothers me. There prob
is a copy house in Nash that could do the stuff, I guess. I'll pass
this over to David and to the lecturers. Doesn't the copy protect
screw with the picture and sound somehow or has it gotten past that
stage?
Msg #17317 Dated 18:01:46 09-03-91 17300 <--> 17334
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
Sorry, I've been reading a lot of zoning law stuff lately. Talk about
diabolical!
Msg #17319 Dated 18:02:00 09-03-91 17308 <--> 17330
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I can see you and Jay now in your leathers and tooling around on
your Sportsters.
Msg #17320 Dated 18:19:53 09-03-91 -> 17349
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DUTCH MAGIC
Date : 04-Sep-91 01:56
From : Tommy Wonder
To : Pete Biro
Subject : Dutch Magic
.
Pete, allow me to tell you what I think were the reasons for the
golden age of dutch magic. This is from about 1950 to about let us
say 1975.
First of all you must know that in Holland there are an enormous
amount of clubs, all kinds, music, pigeon flying, gardening etc,
who meet a lot for the 'gezelligheid'(a sort of cosiness).
Immediately after world war II, there was an outburst of many
partys of all these clubs and societys, and so there was a lot of
opportunity for a magician to work.
I know a few magicians who were professionals at that time, and
even some of them who must have been awfull, had 3,4 or even 5
shows on weekend days. So there suddenly was an enormous amount
of work to be found.
Anyone , in that time, could easily get a lot of experience, and
so one had plenty opportunity to beome good.
Niberco at that time was probably the top magician in Holland.
Fred Kaps was very inspired by Niberco.
Then Henk Vermeyden started the idea (at least over here) of
doing magic-competitions. This was not only good for his
business as a magic dealer, but it started also a competition
feeling among the magicians. When one reads the reports of the
conventions in Holland at that time, the beginning of the fifties,
all the big names competed almost every year, and there acts were
usually quite good, since they had so much actual experience.
Fred Kaps emerged in that time, and I personally think that Fred
Kaps was the biggest factor. He inspired everybody! (although this
is a later time, I myself was, and still am, very inspired, by
Kaps.)
Another factor, not in inspiration, but more in promoting quality,
was Henk Vermeyden. Vermeyden knew how to make an act look slick
(very important in those days) and how to give it good taste,
balance it, good stage setting etc. He was a good director. But do
not forget that at that time there was a lot of quality around,
because of all the opportunities, and I belief that the quality
magicians made Henk Vermeyden just as much or more, than that
Henk Vermeyden made the quality magicians.
I think our main force was Fred Kaps, who inspired everyone to be
as good as him. This together with the fact that there was ample
opportunity to get experience, is what made this 'swimming pool'
of good magic.
Now, Kaps is not here, the opportunities are not here so much
anymore......
Msg #17322 Dated 18:20:48 09-03-91 -> 17351
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DEDICATION
Date : 04-Sep-91 00:22
From : Tommy Wonder
To : PETE BIRO
.
Come on Pete, if you really want this chinatown half, go for it!
Do not be such a coward. If you balm the piece of skin I suppose
it will not discolour.
Why don't you give it a try.....?
---
* Origin: MAGIC!-NL, Home of the wizards, +31-23-388725 (2:0/0)
Msg #17323 Dated 18:21:10 09-03-91 -> 17352
From: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN
To: CHRIS STARR (X)
Re: DEDICATION
Date : 04-Sep-91 00:20
From : Tommy Wonder
To : CHRIS STARR
Subject : DEDICATION
.
Can you tell me a little bit more about the dedication of
Jeffrey Dahmer. I am interested to know how far he is going!
Let me know.
---
* Origin: MAGIC!-NL, Home of the wizards, +31-23-388725 (2:0/0)
Msg #17324 Dated 19:25:47 09-03-91 17316 <--> 17332
From: EVAN KATZ
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
It's gotten better than that. Think of it this way -- the vast
majority of cassettes you rent from the video store are copy protected.
Most of the major studios use the same process. I want to say
Macrovision, but I'm not certain.
Msg #17325 Dated 19:29:31 09-03-91 16743 <--> 17406
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: HOWDY
Don't know if I have any left. They were from a long time ago. If I can
find one it's yours.
Msg #17327 Dated 19:39:42 09-03-91 -> 17401
From: BURT CARPENTER
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: STAGE FOG
Do you want stage fog that hugs the ground or fog that stays suspended
like a cloud? Besides looking at what is sold to magicians, look at the
theatrical supply houses and books. Non chemical fog that stays
suspended is usually based on mineral oil hitting a hot surface. There
are many different commercial units that produce varying quantities of
fog. The smallest looks a lot like a household iron, and will produce
enough fog for a small stage. The only problem is that with too much
fog the floor gets slippery.
Dry ice fog is best controlled with a specially adapted 55 gal drum.
These are available commercialy or you can make them yourself. The drum
is partially filled with hot water. The top of the drum has a rod or
pipe going through it that is attached to a basket inside the barrel.
An outlet near the top of the barrel is cut about 4 inches across and
flexible hose like that used on the exhaust of a clothes dryer is
attached. The basket is filled with dry ice. When you want fog push the
rod with the dry ice down into the hot water. Fog will flow out of the
flexible hose. Lift the rod to stop the fog generation.
Some older and larger theaters use live steam as a heat source for the
dry ice. Unless you are qualified stay away from live steam it is
extremely dangerous.
-Burt C.
Msg #17329 Dated 21:50:27 09-03-91 -> 17347
From: GARY PLANTS
To: ALL
Re: FRIEND
A good friend of mine, Del Copley, passed away at 6:15 p.m. today. He
was a regular at the FFFF Convention and the Columbus Magi-Fest. Del
had been fighting cancer for almost 3 years. We thought that he might
just have it whipped when he took a turn for the worse. Del will be
missed by all of his friends in magic. Maybe he just decided to join
all the elite who have taken this road this year? Later, Del.
Msg #17330 Dated 21:55:09 09-03-91 17285 <--> 17348
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Well, Jimmy Carter confessed to "lusting in his heart" and we were
supposed to accept that. Even in matters of law, we only prosecute
those who actually commit crimes, not those who fantasize about them.
Msg #17331 Dated 21:56:12 09-03-91 -> 17371
From: GARY PLANTS
To: DANTE LARSEN (X)
Re: MAGICANA
Dante, I mailed two copies of the Magicana Index today (9-3-91). See
that Jim Patton gets one to look at. Please feel free to give any
comments or tips if you think it needs to be improved.
Msg #17332 Dated 21:57:54 09-03-91 17286 <--> 17333
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
OK - how do we go about making sure that the bookers live up to their
responsibility for providing information about lectures and lecturers?
Msg #17333 Dated 21:59:46 09-03-91 17309 <--> 17353
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I hadn't realized that Max required the passengers to sit on the
outside - but it does make sense - he puts one on each wing so that he
doen't tip his jet. By the way, I've heard that the plane is named
"The Real Work."
Msg #17334 Dated 22:02:07 09-03-91 17287 <--> 17369
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
Excretory prose, no doubt!
Msg #17335 Dated 22:03:03 09-03-91 17314 <--> 17354
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
OK, if you've got a reed switch and a magnet, the next step is to get
Sylvester tied down until he tells you how to make the rest!
Seriously, I'm not particularly adept at designing audio electronics,
but I would presume that the sound could be encapsulated in an EPROM
and played back at will through an amplifier. Whole thing should be
about the size of a pack of cigarettes, including the batteries -
maybe bigger if you wanted a fancy speaker.
Msg #17336 Dated 22:05:39 09-03-91 17290 <--> 17337
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
Thank you for the glass harmonica info, Max. I'm amazed that Naumann,
Rollig, and Mozart would have written pieces specifically for it.
Apparently, in Mozart's day, one of the highly accomplished glass
harmonica players was a fellow named Dr. Franz Anton Mesmer, the
hypnotist who lent his name to the term "mesmerize."
Msg #17337 Dated 22:08:45 09-03-91 17294 <--> 17338
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
Thanks - I missed Learned Pigs and have never seen it. Will have to
see it sometime at your place.
Msg #17338 Dated 22:10:16 09-03-91 17312 <--> 17363
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
Thanks for the info, Pete - but apparently it ISN'T like a sweet
potato. By the way, I think I may still have my ancient school sweet
potato around here someplace, but I'm not too sure.
Msg #17339 Dated 22:11:53 09-03-91 17291 <--> 17409
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: BRUCE KALVER (X)
Re: HIMBER RING LECTURE
Yes, indeed! A review of the book prior to your Castle lecture on
November 3rd would be great idea. P. O. Box 900, Arleta, Ca. 91334.
Msg #17340 Dated 22:14:20 09-03-91 17293 <--> 17481
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
Came across two other ads for Borge tapes today - one is the "Victor
Borge 80th Birthday Gala Video, filmed live at Wolf Trap and including
Robert Merrill - 90 minutes - $34.95. The other is called the "Victor
Borge Home Video" taped in Minneapolis in 1986 and including the "Aria
from Rogor Mortis by Joe Green," "Birthday Improvisations,"
"Inflationary Language," "Phonetic Punctuation" and more - 2 hours -
$39.95. Both are from Wireless, Minnesota Public Radio, 1000 Westgate
Dr., St. Paul, MN 55114. Wish I knew how they compare with the one
that you have.
Msg #17343 Dated 22:23:43 09-03-91 17305 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: ABOOTS - DAY 4
Thanks for your comments, Tommy. I think you are right, moving from
talking to silent is not as big a problem as going the other way, but
it does have to be plausible that you would not be speaking during the
silent part.
Msg #17344 Dated 22:28:14 09-03-91 17306 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Your message, as usual, provided a great deal of insight. And I do see
your point. You might want to take a look at Michael Ammar's new
Classic Renditions series and see how he has handled the video - he
used several impressive techniques to imprint the fundamental and very
necessary moves, but then also provided some "thought pieces" in the
form of several variations (his own and those of John Cornelius) on the
performance of the effect.
The type of note-video that I have been suggesting is more of a
mnemonic of the lecture and would likely be a companion to the printed
lecture notes, just as the printed notes are considered a companion to
the lecture itself.
Your message suggests that there is "bad video" and I would agree. But
just as there are endless variations on what constitutes magic, there
are endless variations on what constitutes video. I think that for
most people, the video-notes would be an excellent suppliment. And, of
course, the quality of the video-notes, like the printed ones, would
also be a result of the quality of the lecture and the lecturer.
I think that we cannot simply lump all video into one category and draw
conclusions from that. We have to look at it as a vehicle for a
particular type of expression and within a particular context before we
can say "video is good" or "video is bad."
Msg #17345 Dated 22:41:13 09-03-91 17315 <--> 17355
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LANCE'S SHOW
Thank you very much for clarifying the October 9th plan, Pete. I think
it would be great to have a ton of MAGIC! folks show up that night to
support Lance and to have a good time - but under the conditions you've
outlined. I'm looking forward to it - if I can get my hands on a cheap
flight!
Msg #17347 Dated 22:54:27 09-03-91 17329 <--> 17407
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: GARY PLANTS (X)
Re: FRIEND
It is always sad to read about the passing of someone in the magic
community. At the same time, MAGIC! fills an important communications
function at times like these. Do you have an address where cards and
flowers may be sent?
Msg #17348 Dated 23:42:07 09-03-91 17319 <--> 17365
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Wish wuz tru.... harg....
Msg #17349 Dated 23:42:11 09-03-91 17320 <--> 17375
From: PETE BIRO
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: DUTCH MAGIC
Thank you for your insight and wonderful information about the Dutch
magic. I remember Nic Niberco and others, like Marconic, etc. all
coming here doing very good and having excellent material in their
lectures.
.
Yes Vermeyden did add good taste to many... and I can see where it
worked both ways...
Msg #17351 Dated 23:42:31 09-03-91 17322 <--> 17373
From: PETE BIRO
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: DEDICATION
OK, I will cut a piece off my bottom side first... hope it gets
enough sunshine!
Msg #17352 Dated 23:42:36 09-03-91 17323 <--> 17795
From: PETE BIRO
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: DEDICATION
I do not know of Jeffrey? What's up?
Msg #17353 Dated 23:42:40 09-03-91 17333 <--> 17357
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Glad it isn't "The REEL Works" ....
Msg #17354 Dated 23:42:44 09-03-91 17335 <--> 17388
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
No fancy speaker needed, jus a LOUD MUTHA...
Msg #17355 Dated 23:42:47 09-03-91 17345 <--> 17389
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: LANCE'S SHOW
SERIOUSLY, CHECK OUT AMTRACK TO VEGAS... A PAL O' MINE USED TO
GO THAT WAY... YOU COULD HAVE A MINI MAGIC! CONVENTION ON THE WAY!
Make a round tripper and you won't need to stay in Vegas overnight
if the schedule is right.... hmmmm?
Msg #17356 Dated 23:42:53 09-03-91
From: PETE BIRO
To: ALL
Re: CARNEY'S NEW BOOK
Ee;17316
Just got Carneycopia... GREAT BOOK, A MUST... KILLER STUFF....
WELL DONE... can't put it down....(It had glue on the cover)....
no... but seriously, some of Carney's BEST STUFF ever is between
the covers....
Msg #17357 Dated 23:41:12 09-03-91 17188 <--> 17358
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
David -- when I read a book, I learn, and no one is teaching; when I
hear a tape, I am learning, and no one is teaching. Teaching is
INTERACTIVE; when you teach you get feedback and see if the person
understands what you have said or shown. There are thousands of
instances where there is learning without teaching. There are no
instances of teaching -- if it is done properly and honestly -- without
learning.
Msg #17358 Dated 23:45:46 09-03-91 17223 <--> 17359
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
But -- but -- that's what I have been saying all along; speaking is
lecturing, and teaching is a different thing. Are you actually after
all this time agreeing with me or -- as I suspect -- am I just
misunderstanding you?
Msg #17359 Dated 23:47:13 09-03-91 17234 <--> 17376
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Well, yes, you clever fellow you -- but then they aren't lecturing, are
they?
Msg #17360 Dated 23:52:36 09-03-91 17180 <--> 17361
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Professor Heckler fed them himself. I used to come in of a morning and
see the flea troupe arrayed on the Prof's arm, having their little
blood breakfast. And you thought agents were bad...
Msg #17361 Dated 23:53:47 09-03-91 17208 <--> 17362
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TONIGHT
I should point out that Heckler only used fleas from humans -- and, as
I mentioned before, only female fleas. Putting on that harness isn't
easy -- but show business requires effort and toil, as we all know.
Msg #17362 Dated 23:55:29 09-03-91 17235 <--> 17390
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TONIGHT
I know a lot of living creatures who can't live in Las Vegas. On
another subject -- your tape went out today.
Msg #17363 Dated 23:57:26 09-03-91 17290 <--> 17364
From: T A WATERS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
That's one type of glass harmonica; another is a thing that looks sort
of like a glass table leg with many ridges and areas of varying heights
which rotates in a shallow trough of water. This particular type is
actually dangerous to play -- the vibrations can cause nerve damage.
Msg #17364 Dated 23:59:16 09-03-91 17294 <--> 17636
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: AUGUST GENII
Along with Professor Heckler, when I was there Hubert's Museum also
featured Harold Smith on the glasses; he could do some of the classical
stuff for the instrument, but in his regular act it was always Anchors
Aweigh, etc.
Msg #17365 Dated 0:01:15 09-04-91 17209 <--> 17366
From: T A WATERS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
You can really come up with some depressing ideas, you know that?
Msg #17366 Dated 0:02:34 09-04-91 17273 <--> 17367
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
You boycott the show because you wait outside; when they come out you
shoot them; and then you sue their heirs and assigns.
Msg #17367 Dated 0:03:52 09-04-91 17330 <--> 17377
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Really? There are a lot of people serving time for conspiracy...
Msg #17368 Dated 0:06:25 09-04-91 17193 <--> 17391
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Now, now, I wouldn't quote out of context -- particularly when, as in
the present case, I am R*I*G*H*T*...
Msg #17369 Dated 0:07:41 09-04-91 17196 <--> 17370
From: T A WATERS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
As a matter of fact I can; I will have to dig up the reference, but it
is not a word I shy away from. I may believe in magic words, but the
Carlin Seven are not among them -- I use them when they are apropos;
and you will have to agree that your suggested alternative does not
have quite the same nuance of meaning as does my original.
But that's my usage; this is your BBS, and if for some reason you
wish not to have such words appear on it, I will of course respect your
wishes. Does this have anything to do with ECANET regs?
Msg #17370 Dated 0:12:08 09-04-91 17237 <--> 17378
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
So we'll know they really happened to you; now if you told SMART
stories...
Msg #17371 Dated 0:12:14 09-04-91 17331 <-
From: DANTE LARSEN
To: GARY PLANTS (X)
Re: MAGICANA
Will be looking forward to it and will make
sure Jim gets a copy. By the way, look for Jim
commenting on your recent visit in September's
Intermission! (In the mail)
Msg #17372 Dated 0:13:34 09-04-91 17249 <--> 17423
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RICKY JAY
I can't resist adding how people have characterized Ricky's routine as
"the patter out of Erdnase"...in fact only part of it is SWE; most of
it is RJ, and he did an excellent job of emulating the style. I would
hope that it is only the basic effect that is of interest here, and not
RJ's specific presentation.
Msg #17373 Dated 0:20:55 09-04-91 17351 <--> 17424
From: T A WATERS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DEDICATION
The real work (sorry Pete) on this kind of thing is to cut out a piece
of flesh colored paper. And where do you get that exact skin tone? In
Playboy -- excellent color repro. Of course you have to cut a bit out
of a picture -- but nothing is without sacrifice.
Msg #17375 Dated 0:44:23 09-04-91 17320 <-
From: MAX MAVEN
To: ARNAUD VANRIETSCHOTEN (X)
Re: DUTCH MAGIC
The Dutch impact on U.S. magicians reached its peak in the late 1960s
and early 1970s. During that time there were many top quality Dutch
inventors and performers coming to America to lecture and perform, such
as Kaps, Ross, Niberco, Anverdi, Flip, Wonder, etc. This created a
mystique about Holland -- Americans began to believe that that country
produced only wonderful magicians.
My first trip to Holland was in 1960, but not until 1978 did I go there
to attend a magic function. I was very relieved to find that there
were, in addition to the fine magicians, many who were terrible!
Msg #17376 Dated 0:47:57 09-04-91 17332 <--> 17384
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I think it is very simple to make sure that the bookers live up to
their responsibility regarding lectures: if they don't hold to a good
standard, and/or don't provide useful advance information, stop
patronizing their events.
...seems obvious to me...
Msg #17377 Dated 0:49:37 09-04-91 17330 <--> 17380
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
The difference is that people who fantasize about commiting crimes know
that they're crimes. Magicians who fantasize about ripping off
someone's act DON'T REALIZE THAT IT'S WRONG.
Msg #17378 Dated 0:50:33 09-04-91 17334 <--> 17392
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
Nope. Rather carefully crafted, in fact.
Msg #17379 Dated 0:53:46 09-04-91 -> 17426
From: MAX MAVEN
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: FLESH
I've misplaced the thread where T.A. comments on the use of Playboy
photographs for making flesh-colored inserts for Chinatown coins and so
on, but wanted to mention that the idea is apparently Vernon's. It's
easiest to work from a large photo (e.g., the fold-out), as that
provides the greatest range of skin tones. Granted, this is fodder for
a lot of jejune commentary, but it really is the real work.
Msg #17380 Dated 0:57:50 09-04-91 17366 <--> 17381
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Gee, seems to me that you are letting 'em off easy, T.A. I would have
presumed that you would have them drawn, quartered, beaten, tortured,
burnt at the stake, and that then you'd really hurt 'em.
Msg #17381 Dated 1:00:20 09-04-91 17367 <--> 17383
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Conspiracy still has to be proved at more than a theoretical level.
Otherwise, a lot of mystery writers would be serving time for it.
Msg #17382 Dated 1:10:02 09-04-91 -> 17428
From: DAVID VANVRANKEN
To: ALL
Re: ALBUQUERQUE
I'm traveling to Albuquerque, NM next week and was wondering if
anyone was fimiliar with the magical goings on in the area. Are
any Magic!ians from there? I'll try to take a laptop and keep in
touch while I'm there. I'll be traveling sunday the 8th and
returning friday nite the 13th. All my evenings will be free and
I'd hate to have to spend all of them alone in my room. I'll be
staying at the Barcelona Court Hotel. Give me a call! Please!!
David (the lonely one)
Msg #17383 Dated 1:03:58 09-04-91 17377 <--> 17408
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
The computer software industry now has a group called the Software
Publishers Association. It has an 800 number for anonymous phone tips
on corporations that are suspected of illegally copying software and it
stages raids on corporations. But it has a VERY INTERESTING new
wrinkle, according to the September 2nd issue of Information Week --
this Fall it will launch a pilot consulting business. "Companies can
pay the group to 'get clean." and "When the work is done, the SPA
will grant the client immunity from a future software audit. If
pirated software becomes a problem at the company later, the SPA will
work with the customer instead of litigating."
Seems to me that there were gangs that have used the same strategy - I
think that they call it "insurance." You want to serve on the Board of
Directors for the Magic Enforcement Association? See -- we get an 800
number and...
Msg #17384 Dated 1:17:39 09-04-91 17353 <--> 17385
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Nope - I understood that the two passengers were there so that there
would be no chance of tipping "The Real Work."
Msg #17385 Dated 1:18:43 09-04-91 17357 <--> 17386
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
When you are reading a book or hearing a tape you are interacting with
the creator through the use of a medium. Granted that the media you
described severely limit the "interaction" but it is the creator that
you are learning from, not the book or the tape. My own field is
mediated interactive instruation and I have trained more than
three-quarters of a million people. "I" have, not the medium that I
arrived on.
I do not think that you can blandly assume that teaching automatically
causes learning to occur. The appropriate measure of teaching
effectiveness would be the degree to which appropriate learning has
occurred. A well designed program, presented by a good teacher, would
cause more learning to occur in more students.
I suspect that we really aren't very far apart on this issue.
Msg #17386 Dated 1:26:21 09-04-91 17358 <--> 17387
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
You MUST be misunderstanding me! I went back and _I'm_ not sure I
understand what I wrote! Seriously, speaking is NOT lecturing -
lecturing presumes that some learning occurs; whilst a speach may be
for entertainment purposes only.
Msg #17387 Dated 1:30:11 09-04-91 17376 <--> 17399
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Gee, I was hoping that maybe a letter or two to the bookers would
suffice. You really think we have to go to the extreme of a boycott?
Msg #17388 Dated 1:31:07 09-04-91 17354 <--> 17402
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Loud is, to some degree, a function of the size of the speaker and the
distance that the speaker cone travels - but there are some nice and
relatively small speakers that can deliver a pretty passable version of
loud. Seriously - the whole thing would be compact, easy to travel
with, furnish no extraordinary hassles with airport security, and run
on easily replaceable batteries. You just have to find someone who can
build it for you.
Msg #17389 Dated 1:33:19 09-04-91 17355 <--> 17411
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LANCE'S SHOW
Great idea, Pete! Will check into an Amtrack schedule - the
mini-MAGIC! con on the train sounds like a great idea - we could all
bring laptop computers and use a local area network.
Msg #17390 Dated 1:34:28 09-04-91 17360 <--> 17412
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Well, still, in this case, you have to admit that the Professor, acting
as agent, was still getting a good bit more than 10%. Should I presume
that he also provided his all-female troupe with little condoms to
lower the risk of infection?
Msg #17391 Dated 1:36:32 09-04-91 17368 <-
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I had no doubt as to your veracity. I just hope that the microfile
version of the Oxford is still around someplace and that the custodial
service hasn't vanished it into the maul of a vaccum cleaner.
Msg #17393 Dated 1:42:09 09-04-91 17237 <--> 17394
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
Actually, when one is in a building alone on a weekend it is a VERY
GOOD idea NOT to enter the elevator or any other area that one could
become trapped in! I've had the experience of being trapped in an ice
cream freezer for a few minutes on a weekend (we finally managed to
force our way out) and it wasn't plesant.
Msg #17396 Dated 3:01:04 09-04-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC-50
The fiftieth set of MAGIC! messages - #14500 (August 15, 1991)
to #14999 (August 18, 1991) - has been transferred to a downloadable
file. The file is named MAGIC-50.TXT. This means that you can now
go to the file area, download this file, and read the fiftieth
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-50.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 #17397 Dated 3:01:40 09-04-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC-51
The fifty-first set of MAGIC! messages - #15000 (August 18, 1991)
to #15499 (August 22, 1991) - has been transferred to a downloadable
file. The file is named MAGIC-51.TXT. This means that you can now
go to the file area, download this file, and read the fifty-first
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-51.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 #17398 Dated 3:02:11 09-04-91
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: ALL
Re: MAGIC-52
The fifty-second set of MAGIC! messages - #15500 (August 22, 1991)
to #15999 (August 26, 1991) - has been transferred to a downloadable
file. The file is named MAGIC-52.TXT. This means that you can now
go to the file area, download this file, and read the fifty-second
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-52.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 #17399 Dated 3:40:51 09-04-91 17387 <--> 17405
From: MAX MAVEN
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I don't think that I have to go to the extreme of a boycott, for the
simple reason tat it'snt that difficult to check on the rep of most
lecturers before I decide whether or not to invest the time in seeing
them. Personally, I don't care if a given lecture booker wants to bring
in a mediocre lecturer; I'll just avoid going. But, if there is a group
that is having consistent disappointment with the lecturers brought in
by a given booker, I think a group effort of staying away would make
the point rather efficiently.
Msg #17401 Dated 4:03:04 09-04-91 17327 <-
From: DOUG SMITH
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: STAGE FOG
Thanks for the information. By the way, chemists do still think that
mineral oil is a chemical, they are really sensitive about the
perception that to be called a chemical, a substance must be somewhat
dangerous. Again, thanks.
Msg #17402 Dated 4:05:13 09-04-91 17217 <--> 17403
From: DOUG SMITH
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
It will be a lecture-demonstration with about 400 of the top chemical
educators with some being world-class. I will be trying to show and
explain how chemistry does have a part of magic and performing
arts....I like to know more than I present as their questions are good.
Msg #17403 Dated 4:08:38 09-04-91 17220 <--> 17404
From: DOUG SMITH
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
I agree with "Don't try this at home." I am sensitive to this groups
advice. I am not sure how all the material I gather is to be used.
Most certainly we need more than Micky Hades book to tell us about
dangers, pitfalls, and things to avoid.
High school age kids will try anything and the danger comes in partial
information being all they have. Given the opportunity some one in a
class will mix everything available in a room to see what will happen.
Secret is to control of the class and limit what is available.
I am not planning on teaching everything I know to kids, but will use
it educate the teachers and show them a few ideas that may work. There
is a group in Illinois called "Wierd Science" that would try an effect
like flashing fingertips. Perhaps I can educate them too.
Msg #17404 Dated 4:16:24 09-04-91 17288 <--> 17414
From: DOUG SMITH
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
I appreciate your concern. Would you consider expressing it to
"Theatre Effects" who sells and pushes the propduct.My interest s are
science teaching and magic and I want to learn more about the magic
portions of my interest. Most of the magic is presented in a book
called "Tested Demonstrations" by Herbert Alyea but does not have all
the warnings it
should.
I do disagree with the idea that
"Ignorance is bliss." I feel that a little learning is a dangerous
thing.
You may be correct is not providing the little items that could cause
an accident but I feel the value of knowledge is in the sharing and
hopefully someone like yourself would tie ideas together to get an
improvement and update of Micky Hades book. Of course there are a
number of science based magic effects that are not dangerous. My
experience is that teen- age audiences need to percieve a little danger
to get their attention-with fire,smoke, and noise being one way to get
the attention. Thanks for the input.
Msg #17405 Dated 7:40:33 09-04-91 17324 <--> 17419
From: TABBY CRABB
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
So I've been watching copy protected videos and didn't know it. Since
I didn't try to copy em I would of never known. Maybe. Maybe.
Msg #17406 Dated 7:40:38 09-04-91 17325 <--> 17637
From: TABBY CRABB
To: BURT CARPENTER (X)
Re: HOWDY
Thanks if you find one.
Msg #17407 Dated 7:40:42 09-04-91 17329 <-
From: TABBY CRABB
To: GARY PLANTS (X)
Re: FRIEND
Sorry to hear about your friend Del, Gary. Thanks for letting us
know.
Msg #17408 Dated 7:40:46 09-04-91 17330 <--> 17410
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Carter shoulda kept his mouth shut. He made it look bad for the self
rightous.
Msg #17409 Dated 7:40:51 09-04-91 17339 <--> 17418
Fom: TBB CRABB
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: HIMBER RING LECTURE
Looking 4ward to your review of the _Himber Ring_ by Kalver book.
With several "new" Himber rings on the market this looks like a
timely book.
Msg #17410 Dated 7:40:56 09-04-91 17348 <--> 17413
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Yo box arrived this morning. Thankx. The east-west-west-east mail is
running pretty good right now I guess with you getting 2 packs of
stuff from me yesterday. I've been enjoying ya'lls discussion of
Dutch magic the past few days. About a third way through _Illusion
Show_ by Dave Bamberg and thoroughly enjoying it. Reading this book
has given new light to the Thurston Scrapbook which we were talking
to Gary Ouellet about on CIS. Maybe I should alert him to the Bamberg
book, but knowing Gary, he has read it already and will still be
underwhelmed by the _Scrapbook_.
Msg #17411 Dated 7:41:07 09-04-91 17355 <--> 17432
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: LANCE'S SHOW
The train ride sounds like fun anyway, Pete. A great idea for a
convention on rails. Plus, if Frog gets mad at the promoter he can
always just toss him/her out the rear of the observation car.
Msg #17412 Dated 7:41:12 09-04-91 17361 <--> 17420
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Related to prof. Heckler's human fleas, one of the guys in Bone Pony
had some kind of bugs crawling around on him in the studio in Nashvl
and everybody had to take a bath in flea dip. The life of a rock and
roll manager.
Msg #17413 Dated 7:41:17 09-04-91 17365 <--> 17425
From: TABBY CRABB
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I had to go back and see what depressed you since I do, from time
to time, depress. I guess the idea of a _How To Talk Magic_ showing
up on the rack at Stuckey's could send one over the wall. Lessee;
Stillwell Ball - oh, never mind!
Msg #17414 Dated 7:41:23 09-04-91 17402 <--> 17417
From: TABBY CRABB
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
Any lecture notes available?
Msg #17415 Dated 8:14:53 09-04-91 17280 <--> 17643
From: MIKE KING
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: MAGIC CASTLE PERFORMERS
I don t know. Maybe. Guess so. Who knows. Could be.......
Msg #17417 Dated 8:29:58 09-04-91 17403 <--> 17431
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
When I was in jr. high school and high school we would try anything.
Let's see -- in the course of various chemistry classes and the science
club I, and my associates, attempted to make nitrogen tri-iodide (which
worked), gunpowder (which worked), and nitroglycerin (which didn't).
Also as a kid I had one of those large chemistry sets and WAS indeed
prone to "inventing" various substances by trying random mixtures.
On the other hand (no, that does not imply that I blew one off), a
great deal of creativity was fostered during that period too and I
learned any number of interesting and useful things.
I like your idea that you only make certain things available - it is
more subtle than forcing the kids to only follow directions.
Msg #17418 Dated 8:39:34 09-04-91 17409 <--> 17443
From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop)
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: HIMBER RING LECTURE
Yes, I think both the book and Bruce Kalver's lecture will be most
interesting.
Msg #17419 Dated 9:40:54 09-04-91 17357 <--> 17430
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Then where did the phrase "SELF TAUGHT" come from?
Msg #17420 Dated 9:41:00 09-04-91 17360 <--> 17421
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Must've been a struggle for the ol' Prof. to get an even TAN....
Msg #17421 Dated 9:41:04 09-04-91 17361 <--> 17422
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Has nothing to do with fleas, but leaving the site of the Oakland
Magic Circle club meeting last night (no one lectured) a HUGE....
(I'M TALKING AS BIG AS A LARGE CAT)... R A T... strolled across
the street in front of me. Man... whew... wuz spooky lookin'...
You want an ARGH.....
Msg #17422 Dated 9:41:12 09-04-91 17362 <--> 17439
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: TONIGHT
The predicting device and the tape must be like the proverbial
ships... "passing in the night".... or "are in Postal Storage
facilities together..."
Msg #17423 Dated 9:41:18 09-04-91 17372 <--> 17498
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: RICKY JAY
YO...Ricky has a line in the patter, about one of the Queens,
"Going to Windsor for the Summer" that was inspired and put in in
honor of Ken Brooke!
.
Were you at Ricky's Greatest Performance ever? The one at McCabe's
Guitar shop... where he did the FAKE Hypnotic act? Vernon, myself
and a couple of others were stooges... it was something that
would have been worthy of NETWORK TV.... Some day, ask Rickela to
tell you about it!
Msg #17424 Dated 9:41:30 09-04-91 17373 <--> 17499
From: PETE BIRO
To: T A WATERS (X)
Re: DEDICATION
I have thought about other ways... but that is the best solution
yet... Only trouble is "how deceptive is a chinese coin resting
on a hand that has a nipple on it" ????
Msg #17425 Dated 9:41:36 09-04-91 17377 <--> 17427
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Did you ever wonder WHY they don't think it wrong to nick material?
boy... read the opening chapter in Carneycopia....
.
Matter of fact... TO ALL...
.
Go guy Carneycopia. Read his opening chapter (skip the accolades
by others leading in... he doesn't deserve it, he only came in
2nd at FISM, beat by some guy doing a boring rope trick...argh)...
anyway... TEAR OUT THE CHAPTER AND THROW THE REST OF THE BOOK AWAY.
.
You will still have several pages of information and thinking that
are worth, maybe 20 times the price you paid for the whole book.
.
He has the final word on practice, wardrobe, stealing, VIDEO of
magic (David....) and other stuff and things that if I go into
detail about will violate the (C) saying I can't duplicate by any
known or unknown method etc.
.
I wonder what the unknown methods are?
Msg #17426 Dated 9:41:58 09-04-91 17379 <--> 17604
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: FLESH
Tanks max... Will look at a Playboy when I next go to a barber
shop.
Msg #17427 Dated 9:42:03 09-04-91 17380 <--> 17429
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
T A does that in his mind to folk, daily, right?
Msg #17428 Dated 9:42:08 09-04-91 17382 <-
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X)
Re: ALBUQUERQUE
Just leave your door open a crack, and you probably won't be alone
long.
Msg #17429 Dated 9:42:14 09-04-91 17383 <--> 17437
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
When I first started reading message 17383 it made me think of the
MAFIA.... then you brought it through in paragraph two.........
ooooooo
Msg #17430 Dated 9:42:20 09-04-91 17384 <--> 17434
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
DUMMY.... the guys on the outside put the cards on the window!
Msg #17431 Dated 9:42:24 09-04-91 17388 <--> 17435
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
The easiest way would be to get a Ghetto Blaster that fits inside
a briefcase and get a tape of the sound. The smoke device and a
few other surprises (compressed air shooting confetti) are all
proprietary in today's special effects marketplace.
.
In the olde days.....
Msg #17432 Dated 9:42:33 09-04-91 17389 <--> 17438
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: LANCE'S SHOW
Sounds like an old fashioned circle jerk to me.... argh?
Msg #17433 Dated 9:42:38 09-04-91 17393 <--> 17648
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ELEVATORS/QUOTATION MARKS
Who in the hell would EVER go (even in the middle of a busy week
day) GO INSIDE AN ICE CREAM FREEZER?
.
OK, one more. We had some relatives from the East visiting. They
had a few kids. We went to the park alongside Lake Merritt in
Oakland. In the park was a fairly long (by Kid standards... in
actuality, mebbe 150-feet long) TUNNEL. At each end was a door that
was closed when the park was closed. They were like Jail Cell doors,
ie: bars.
.
We were playing hide-and-seek. You got it. I was hiding in the
tunnell... it was late... it got real quiet... so I decided, gee I
better get out of here before.... yep.... I was locked in.
It took a couple of hours for them to find some guy with the key.
Boy the KIDS sure liked that!!!! They thought I was a really
funny Uncle Petey.... argh....
Msg #17434 Dated 9:42:57 09-04-91 17399 <--> 17436
From: PETE BIRO
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Coupled with a phone call TELLING THE DUMMY WHY YOU DIDN'T COME.
Msg #17435 Dated 9:43:01 09-04-91 17404 <--> 17441
From: PETE BIRO
To: DOUG SMITH (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
I took a class (well I was forced to) on Booby Traps and Explosives
while I was in the US Army.... The teacher was GREAT... he used
comedy quite a bit in his demonstrations.
.
He showed us the, then fairly new and unheard of, plastic explosive
stuff. He said "This stuff is the greatest... you wire it, hit it
with the charge and it Explodes. You can stick it to walls, any
place you want. And it is really safe. You can throw it around,
drop it... it won't go off."
.
We didn't know anything about it and were pretty scared of the
stuff. Finally he finished with it and tossed it back over his
shoulder and over a bluff (he was standing near a bluff with about
a 30 foot drop off behind him).
.
When he tossed the hunk of plastic over his shoulder, and the bluff,
VERY CASUALLY, THERE WAS A HUGE EXPLOSION, COVERING US ALL WITH
DEBRIS... ETC...
.
What a great set up... he had an assistant blow a charge of dynamite
at the proper moment.
.
Another dem he did was to have a two-story house with an open front
on it. Two guys would go inside and check for booby traps left by
the departing enemy forces.... they found all the usual stuff,
like switches under a wine bottle... etc.
.
When they finally had "cleared the place" and said it was safe, one
of them had to go to the john... YOU GUESSED IT.... when he flushed
the whole place blew up!!!!!
.
So.... my point here is.... try to make it ENTERTAINING, use a
little of the foregoing thinking.... those situations that are
FUNNY and a SURPRISE... will be long remembered by the students.
Msg #17436 Dated 9:43:37 09-04-91 17405 <--> 17484
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
But tonite you are going to try to copy one, right? Carbon paper
does not work well.
.
OK another dumb Biro story. When I arrived at my first assignment
in the Army... in the G2 (which is Intelligence... how I ever got
in their is still a mystery to me)... this seargant comes in and
hands me a handwritten letter. He say, "Captain (you don't believe
that? OK) Private, TYPE ME TWO COPIES OF THIS LETTER!"
.
When finished I handed them to him. He exclaimed, "Gee, these BOTH
look like originals!" To which I replied, "Well, er, they are, I
typed 'em both!" He said, "You dumb M***** F*****... haven't you
ever heard of Carbon Paper?"
Msg #17437 Dated 9:43:53 09-04-91 17410 <--> 17440
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I have only given the Thurston Scrapbook a cursery glance (pretty
big words from me, eh?) and it looks just like what it is said to
be... just a scrapbook and snapshots of the stuff Howard was trying
to remember, like construction sizes, etc. Byron sez it will be
like the Harbin book, buy several and in a few years they will be
worth 3 or 4 times the money. He can't getem wholesale no mo.
Msg #17438 Dated 9:44:02 09-04-91 17411 <--> 17503
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: LANCE'S SHOW
And there is a grand prize for the guy that does the best card on
the window.
.
Wait til you see the Samurai version of the card NAILED to my
forehead!!! Have it honed and ready to show now...
.
Possibly the strongest "performing concept" I have come up with in
a loooooooong tme.
.
I have actually devised a LOGICAL and ENTERTAINING reason that the
cards cannot be examined, and cannot be shuffled.
.
Which JUST reminded me of a great Seabrooke stag show line....
"These cards cannot be examined, they cannot be shuffled....
otherwise I am F*****!"
Msg #17439 Dated 9:44:20 09-04-91 17412 <--> 17489
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TONIGHT
You shudda wrote "The life of a Rock and Roll MANGE-ER!"
Msg #17440 Dated 9:44:24 09-04-91 17413 <--> 17482
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
The Stillwell Ball was one of Magic's most elaborate Social Events.
Will suggest its revival to Joe Stevens for the next Seminar.
Msg #17441 Dated 9:44:29 09-04-91 17414 <--> 17442
From: PETE BIRO
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
RE: Flashing Fingertips. I forget who told me this, but one of mhuy
correction "MY" ole pals said he read an ad for an effect that sed:
"Walk on stage and your eyes sparkle and flash... like they are
electrically charged...."
.
When the stuff came it was art store glitter -- like you stick on
Xmas cards... it sed, Glue this stuff to your eyelids... and when
you walk on make sure the spotlight is on full bring and shining
in your face!""""""""""""""""""""""" argh""""""""""""""""""""
Msg #17442 Dated 9:44:42 09-04-91 17417 <--> 17500
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: FLASHING FINGERTIPS
The ONLY stupid thing I ever tried to make with my chemistry set
was Carbon Paper (this is before my Army experience)... I think
some of the clothing I wore that day still has blue stains on it.
(It was almost 50 years ago!)
Msg #17443 Dated 9:44:49 09-04-91 17418 <--> 17584
From: PETE BIRO
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: HIMBER RING LECTURE
No offense to Bruce, but if you have never seen or met him, or
read his book, how can you say his lecture will be most interesting?
.
Note: If you want the BEST, most practical handling of the Linking
Finger Rings (Diaconis/Schneider/sold by Himber) -- check out the
Billy McComb video in the Greater Magic Series available out of
Wichita...
.
And.... I am looking forward to seeing Kalver and HOPE it is good
and is INTERESTING.... and INFORMATIVE.
.
Anyone know if Okito was the FIRST to link finger rings? I heard he
linked a number of them, brought onstage from the audience by an
assistant, ON A TRAY... onto his LINKING RINGS.
.
Knowing Theo's reputation, am sure the tray switched the half dozen
rings for a pre-linked set that you couldn't distinguish from the
borrowed due to the stage distance from the spectators....
.
Like to know.... for the book y'know....
Msg #17445 Dated 9:58:40 09-04-91 16633 <--> 17464
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: ROTH REVIEW
Gadzooks! I will have to assign someone to keeping up with when you
are back from being gone and gone from being back. Are you sure you
are gonna be able to work a move from MD to TN into that schedule?
...or are you taking it a suitcase full at a time? You gonna need
SLC just to catch your breath!
Msg #17446 Dated 9:58:57 09-04-91 16634 <--> 17451
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: MY FIRST INVENTION
Hope the mellowing phase didn't dull your cutting edge...most likely
you will now have a much healthier viewpoint....just make sure you
block out sufficient Tabby Time on your calendar when you git thar.
Msg #17447 Dated 9:59:07 09-04-91 16635 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: DC
That is probably faster than I can get to Fredricksburg...althought
I am not sure why I would want to get there at all.
Msg #17448 Dated 9:59:15 09-04-91 16636 <--> 17449
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: NEW COIN IDEA
Damn...I wasn't on the board from past noon Friday until Tuesday and
therefore didn't see your message until Tuesday. We had Family up
for a cookout on Sunday, but might have actually been able to shake
free for a visit on Monday. However, last year's bash sounds like
the one we shouldn't have missed...Thanks for the invite anyhow.
Msg #17449 Dated 9:59:29 09-04-91 16637 <--> 17458
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: NEW COIN IDEA
Thanks...and as you should know, the Crabbs are welcome to visit and
stay over whenever Glo wants to visit her old stomping grounds in
Waynewood or either of you needs a shot of Tex Mex....
Msg #17450 Dated 9:59:39 09-04-91 16659 <--> 17522
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ABBOTTS - DAY 3
What paper did HE deliver?
Sounds like a magical incantation! Zamora spelled backwards ain't
so bad either.
Msg #17451 Dated 9:59:50 09-04-91 16660 <--> 17507
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: MY FIRST INVENTION
Helga's sausage was as good as the soup! But it was the fact that
you had to smile to get your bowl refilled that made the place unique
...that is aside from Helga getting all the customers to sing along
with her.
Msg #17452 Dated 10:00:01 09-04-91 16661 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: SPOTLIGHTS AND ROADSIGNS
Actually, I believe it might more appropriately be called a "piece
of cheesecake" since that was the primary reason for suggesting the
clear lucite on the bottom.
Msg #17453 Dated 10:00:13 09-04-91 16662 <--> 17524
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: NEW VERSION OF MAGIC!
I never saw Roy Benson except on TV. I also remember the first time
that I walked into Flosso and saw the "mess"...particularly the great
pile in the back room. Then there was this wierd little man who
yelled out "Whadda you want in here?". Did I ever tell you about his
introducing me to a tall graying fellow that walked into the shop?
Flosso said: "Hey Boy, this is Bozo the Clown" The gentleman smiled
and shook my hand. It was Dunninger. Then he proceeded for the next
half hour to convince me that he really could read minds.
Msg #17454 Dated 10:00:35 09-04-91 16663 <--> 17460
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DENIGRATING MAGIC'S IMAGE
I think you need a warehouse and a keyboard puncher to enter all your
goodies into a database. How many boxes do you still have to unpack?
Msg #17455 Dated 10:00:42 09-04-91 16664 <--> 17526
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: HUNDRED DOLLAR THREAD
No...I could never use that! I will use my leather one with the
wooden cap that I made. Besides, I have never done the Cylinder and
Coins with half dollars size coins. It is also cardboard and would
not withstand a great deal of use. What did Davenports sell with it?
A stack of English penses and the booklet?
BTW...it did arrive and in great shape. Thanks!!!
Msg #17456 Dated 10:00:59 09-04-91 16666 <--> 17457
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RUSSIAN BBSERS
If Joe is successful in putting that tape together he should have a
real blockbuster. New Mexico was the pause before the storm for Joe
and Martha and Halloween. Joe was going to TAOM but rather
reluctantly.
Msg #17457 Dated 10:01:10 09-04-91 16667 <--> 17527
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RUSSIAN BBSERS
Only if you are a tongue-tied Roman.
Msg #17458 Dated 10:01:17 09-04-91 16668 <--> 17459
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: NEW COIN IDEA
Galloway is absolutely colorless on the Ramsay tape. Not only with
the 2 cup routine but all the other stuff as well. That tape is
primarily of interest to a study of Ramsay magic. I would assume
that Galloway is probably doing the moves pretty close to the way
that Ramsay did them. At least he seems to track what is in writing.
It is a very difficult task to avoid falling to sleep while watching
the tape.
Msg #17459 Dated 10:01:36 09-04-91 16670 <--> 17508
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: NEW COIN IDEA
We are going to use a pipeline to pump Glo's Brunswick Stew back
East. After we have our fill of stew we will flush out the line and
send The Old Principal's Springwater west.
Msg #17460 Dated 10:01:46 09-04-91 16671 <--> 17466
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DENIGRATING MAGIC'S IMAGE
You always did have a screwed up sense of direction...
Msg #17462 Dated 10:03:36 09-04-91 16677 <--> 17469
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TOO QUIET
Whose at 300 baud? I only have 2400 baud modems and would have a
9600 baud if I could afford it. The only reason that the message
base wasn't totally out of hand for the period of time I was in New
Mexico is because you and Tabman were also gone part of the time.
Msg #17463 Dated 10:03:45 09-04-91 16678 <--> 17470
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TRIX
What was he gonna do with all the tips? Play along with the band
using a metal tray?
Oh...just realized this is the "squeeze the widow" thread (so to
speak) and not TRIX as the header indicates. Now I understand what
you are saying.
Msg #17464 Dated 10:03:58 09-04-91 16680 <--> 17465
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: ROTH REVIEW
WHAT routine on the HOO?
Msg #17465 Dated 10:04:05 09-04-91 16711 <--> 17479
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ROTH REVIEW
You were obviously confusing HOO coins with the famous Kragbrough
Passe Passe Owls effects....(a common error I might add). Althought
I understand via reports from Boliva that certain chinese conjurors
do use parrots in certain venues.
Msg #17466 Dated 10:04:17 09-04-91 16713 <--> 17467
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: DENIGRATING MAGIC'S IMAGE
No doubt with the Frog in pursuit of the bug, we should have new
features amoung us at any moment now!!
Msg #17467 Dated 10:04:25 09-04-91 16714 <--> 17525
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: DENIGRATING MAGIC'S IMAGE
Yes...I have FAX numbers...both home and work. However, all material
on commercial fly raising ventures must go thru both Biro and Tabman
for analysis prior to being sent to me. I assume you are using the
classic bovine patty method as a rearing medium. If this is indeed
the case, don't dig up TOO much.
Msg #17468 Dated 10:04:39 09-04-91 16715 <--> 17660
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: ABBOTTS - DAY 4
Have you gotten the proper license and or releases from BMI, ASCAP,
and others for yourself and the system on these late night sing-a-
longs?
Msg #17469 Dated 10:04:49 09-04-91 16716 <--> 17657
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: TOO QUIET
...and the messages don't fade away when the light hits 'em.
Even after a couple of months of being away.
Msg #17470 Dated 10:04:57 09-04-91 16717 <--> 17471
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: TRIX
Have you noticed any rather large cocoons in this area called the
garage? Might explain the decrease in crime in your area.
Msg #17471 Dated 10:05:05 09-04-91 16718 <--> 17658
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: TRIX
Naw...it ain't Scotty's technique that is the joy to watch. What's
interesting is when he tries to retrieve the little card froggy. He
always gets the young lady to write her phone number on the card and
therefore he wants to keep it. Now, if you could just get that dumb
robot of yours to walk into the nearest cleavage.
Msg #17473 Dated 10:05:30 09-04-91 16720 <--> 17477
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: COINS ACROSS
If most magicians don't sing any better than they perform magic, then
I fear we would have few, if any, senses left unassaulted.
Msg #17475 Dated 10:05:50 09-04-91 16724 <--> 17480
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: NEW MAGAZINE
I would certainly have to say that Max's Consumer Guide and other
contributions were a VERY big part of the new M A G I C. Frankly,
without Max's excellent contributions, I would find the publication
a bit light.
Msg #17476 Dated 10:06:03 09-04-91 16728 <-
From: BILL WELLS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: PEN-NAMES
While I did know how Walter devised his pen-name from magic dealer
friends, I do not know where Zella comes from.
This thread brings back such memories. Particularly of how alert and
clear Walter's amazing memory was in later years. He would talk
about events and people from the Shadow days and other periods in his
early life as if they happened yesterday.
I also remember a Collector's Weekend during which I sat in awe in
that greasy spoon Mexican eatery just up the street from Magic INC
watching Walter wolf down a bowl of spicy grease laden chilli at some
unspeakable wee hour of the night while relating some tale from his
never ending store of experiences.
Msg #17477 Dated 10:06:31 09-04-91 16729 <--> 17478
From: BILL WELLS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: COINS ACROSS
Yes...I have seen Craig Dickens work. You may recall that we booked
him on the St. Louis I.B.M. Convention shows. He was very strong on
tape. We anticipated he would be much stronger on stage than he
actually was. I still think he has potential. It may have been
line up placement but for some reason he did not score with the
audience as strong as we had anticipated.
Msg #17478 Dated 10:06:50 09-04-91 16731 <--> 17512
From: BILL WELLS
To: MAX MAVEN (X)
Re: COINS ACROSS
That was one of Walter's methods of beating writer's block with
having the multiple rooms and concurrent projects. His other method
was elegant in it's simplicity. He always stopped in mid sentence at
the end of the day's work.
Thus he was assured of at least a start at the beginning of the next
day when he completed the sentence. He said this usually was more
than enough to get him started. Quite remarkable, especially when
one considers he would write a proscribed number of words about just
about any subject (on multiple subjects at the same time) at a
moments notice and under a tight deadline. He was usually paid by
the word rather than by the article...at least in the early days.
Msg #17479 Dated 10:07:18 09-04-91 16739 <--> 17506
From: BILL WELLS
To: CINDY SZERLIP (X)
Re: ROTH REVIEW
I had thought you might be using the drop from the shell into a
finger palm as David does in his routine. If you want to use a shell
in your coins across routine, you might also want to look over the
Larry Jennings version of this effect using a shell.
Msg #17480 Dated 10:07:29 09-04-91 16806 <--> 17518
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: NEW MAGAZINE
A completely booked Bill of Talent for SLC!
Msg #17481 Dated 10:07:34 09-04-91 16833 <--> 17539
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEO AGAIN
Actually, why don't you just set up a camera on sticks and tape yer
self opening all those boxes. You could perform each trick as you
unpack it and tell a story. You could call it "magic in my garage".
It worked for computers...why not magic?
Msg #17482 Dated 10:07:48 09-04-91 16931 <--> 17483
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
In Virginia, it was always a PENNY that got put into the black eyed
peas on New Year's day. I guess Texans just always have to do it
bigger!
Msg #17483 Dated 10:08:01 09-04-91 16951 <--> 17487
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Please add:
Request from B. Wells - Cute bumper stickers
Unanimous request - Biro's One Liners
Msg #17484 Dated 10:08:19 09-04-91 16997 <--> 17486
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: VIDEOS
WHAT???
Methinks those are the mindless musings of sour grapes from what
mostlikely is a frustrated Cowboy's fan or something equally as
miserable.
Do I dare ask what is the official football team of Kragbrough
Msg #17485 Dated 10:08:31 09-04-91 17002 <--> 17543
From: BILL WELLS
To: BRUCE SANDERCOCK (X)
Re: DC
You are welcome for the information. I hope you enjoy your stay at
the JW Marriott. I don't think I have a current telephone number for
Woody Landers, but he should be in the phone book.
I live in Alexandria, Virginia just down the Potomac from Washington.
My home is about four miles north of Mt. Vernon.
Msg #17486 Dated 10:08:37 09-04-91 17025 <--> 17491
From: BILL WELLS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
I ain't shooting and I enjoyed your summation of the now legendary
lecture litany. As a nonlecturer and former attendee I will respond
to your invite. I must admit that I find myself mostly in agreement
with the views put forth by T.A. Waters on the subject. I never go
to a magic "lecture" intending to be taught in the sense of learning
how to perform a routine or a move. I would consider that to be a
class or a lesson. I always go to a lecture to see how the performer
approaches magic, how he performs, and how he thinks about magic. If
I am lucky, I may be inspired. There are usually ideas and concepts
which are worthwhile. I have no interest in learning an exact effect
or routine done by the lecturer. If I am inspired by some effect or
concept, I would work on whatever I would do with it after I had left
the lecture. That is only my opinion. I fully realize that many
others go to lecturers with other expectations.
Awhile back, I advanced that magic might benefit from a
classification system for "lectures". Although nobody but Pete made
any comment, it is interested to note that much of this lecture
argument now revolves around what a lecture really is. I again offer
that a service might be rendered to magic if a simple classification
was devised for "lectures". For starters how about:
A - Lecture - Concepts and theories on magic with
demonstrations.
B - Performance - all show - no tell
C - Class - instruction in performance of magic
Msg #17487 Dated 10:09:39 09-04-91 17078 <--> 17488
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Might cause one to wonder if we ought to develop a classification
system of sorts....naw...who would ever try anything like that. The
magic dealers can't even come up with a definition of who is and
isn't a magic dealer. How could we ever sharpen up something like
magic lecture versus lesson versus performance?
Msg #17488 Dated 10:09:52 09-04-91 17096 <--> 17492
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Indeed the DMS teach ins were very good. However, in '92 it appears
that scheduling will force a choice between having either the bull
session close up performances and the teach ins. Present indications
are that the bull sessions will win out over the teach ins. The
teach in will reappear in '93 for sure.
Msg #17489 Dated 10:10:06 09-04-91 17110 <--> 17490
From: BILL WELLS
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TONIGHT
Actually, I believe the little harnesses are made from Black Widow
webbing....
Msg #17490 Dated 10:10:14 09-04-91 17123 <--> 17497
From: BILL WELLS
To: TABBY CRABB (X)
Re: TONIGHT
You hire a bunch of little Black Widows to put 'em on the fleas for
you.
Msg #17491 Dated 10:10:22 09-04-91 17166 <--> 17493
From: BILL WELLS
To: EVAN KATZ (X)
Re: VIDEOS
Consider for a moment the problem faced by the booker of a "lecturer"
. Exactly what is it the lecturer is expected to do? Talk about
magic? Sell magic? Teach magic? Without the existance of fairly
widely accepted and understand terms, I really don't know what the
booker is going to ask for or advertise. Also consider that what a
booker might ask a "lecturer" to do for a club meeting of 20 to 40
people is entirely different than what a convention booker might ask
a "lecturer" to do for a convention audience of 700 people. It is
almost impossible to teach moves at a large convention lecture. One
can show and tell (do the trick and explain how it is done) but
teaching is almost out of the question. I think the current term
lecture is taken by most to mean a show and tell presentation wherein
the lecturer performs effects and then tells how they are done. I
really don't think people truly expect to be taught how to do things
in a lecture. People also expect the lecturer to sell notes or brief
descriptions of the effects done in the lecture.
Msg #17492 Dated 10:10:58 09-04-91 17183 <--> 17502
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
At the moment, the teach-ins could only be put back into the '92 DMS
schedule if something else is left out! This would most likely be
the very popular informal bull session. A close up show has been put
into the schedule this year. A MAGIC! session is currently scheduled
for late evening after the close up shows, I believe. I left the
schedule I worked out with Joe and will have to wait for him to type
it and send it to me to be sure of the exact time. Convention
schedules are always a matter of balancing events and facilities into
a fairly fixed amount of time. It is impossible to do everything
every year. BTW...you can call me Bill instead of "'em".
Msg #17493 Dated 10:11:24 09-04-91 17186 <--> 17501
From: BILL WELLS
To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X)
Re: VIDEOS
David...what would you have the promotion describe the lecturer as
doing? There are a few "pure" ones...such as David Roth doing coin
magic or Martin Nash doing card magic...but most would probably end
up being described as TWGM doing a hodge podge of something for each
of the magicalumpen.
Msg #17494 Dated 10:34:11 09-04-91 -> 17547
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: PAUL FOX HOULETTE
Hi Pete,
The Paul Fox Rising Cards houlette is really a beauty and being
made in 1947, it is younger than both of us. My hands were
covered with Antique Oil yesterday and I didn't wanna touch
anything til today. I haven't had a chance to try it out yet, but
will soon, I hope. Glo is starting to get in the swing of things.
She looked at it and said "you could make that of rosewood."
Haven't checked out the Merv Taylor one yet. Will save that one
for this evening. Muchas gracias, amigo!
El Tab
Msg #17495 Dated 11:07:18 09-04-91 -> 17496
From: MIKE KING
To: ALL
Re: METAL WORK
Hi guys. This is Mike, again. Anyone out there know of someone who is
a good metal worker. Need to get work done on a new levitation I am
building. Would like to find someone who has a nice metal shop. Does
not have to have a background in magic. This is an original design and
I have done all the stress testing, etc.. Anyway, if you might know of
someone I would appreciate a shout. Thanks!
Msg #17496 Dated 11:45:53 09-04-91 17495 <--> 17519
From: MARVIN STERN
To: MIKE KING (X)
Re: METAL WORK
Try Scott at (213)462-2855. Does excellant work, not expensive.
Don't know if he's interested in doing a "one-piece" job.
If not, let me know, and I have someone else. But try Scott first.
Maybe Pete will let me know if I coined a new phrase " one-piece" job.
Msg #17497 Dated 12:01:31 09-04-91 17421 <--> 17504
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: TONIGHT
The rat didn't have an eight of hearts in his mouth, did he?
Msg #17498 Dated 12:01:35 09-04-91 17423 <--> 17551
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: RICKY JAY
The fake hypnotic act in a guitar shop. That's too much. I want to
hear all about it sometime. How did you keep from laughing? I can't
`wait to hear about that one.
Msg #17499 Dated 12:01:41 09-04-91 17424 <--> 17612
From: TABBY CRABB
To: PETE BIRO (X)
Re: DEDICATION
You do the trick sans shirt lying on your back using your chest as
a close-up pad.
=== END OF MAGIC-55 ===
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