MAGIC! - 68 The following was compiled from the magician's message section of MAGIC!(tm). MAGIC! is an electronic communications system for magicians. It may be accessed from any personal computer with a modem by dialing US 818-896-7450. New registrants must leave a comment with their name, address, phone number and a brief resume of their magic background to be considered for membership. The material herein should be treated as confidentially as other magic information. Copyright 1991, 1992 by MAGIC!, All rights reserved. Msg #23500 Dated 4:15:21 10-25-91 -> 23508 From: DOUG SMITH To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Sorry. Pasteur said "Chance favors the prepared mind." Msg #23501 Dated 5:52:16 10-25-91 -> 23534 From: TABBY CRABB To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: NUEVO DECARLO Thanks for the good wishes. I won't leave any messages over the week end as I won't be here. Msg #23504 Dated 8:19:09 10-25-91 -> 23536 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: PHONE No, Pete, 100 jugglers tossing up at the same time is not a mess, it is a hazard. 100 gourmet diners tossin up at once is a mess. Msg #23505 Dated 8:20:56 10-25-91 -> 23559 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Thanks for the suggestion of Don Alan's "Pretty Sneaky," Pete. It is for Stan's friend. Msg #23506 Dated 8:22:59 10-25-91 -> 23507 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE OK - if you find Leibenow address, I'll appreciate it. Will be looking for killer private info... Msg #23508 Dated 8:26:06 10-25-91 23500 <--> 23533 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: DOUG SMITH (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Hmmm... I'll take your word for it, Doug. But I don't remember Pasteur saying it. Oh, well... Msg #23509 Dated 8:28:30 10-25-91 -> 23539 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS We have finally decided on the car. "Ain't got time to take a fast train." Msg #23510 Dated 8:29:05 10-25-91 -> 23540 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: TRICK IDEA.... A METHOD! Lemme guess - you do the non-dove bit and you say no need to buy seed, no need to clean cages, and then you do torn and restored newspaper! Msg #23511 Dated 8:30:58 10-25-91 -> 23541 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS 200 little envelopes of packet tricks... ARGH! (tm - Biro)! Msg #23512 Dated 8:32:33 10-25-91 -> 23542 From: MICHAEL AMMAR To: ALL Re: ADDRESS Here I am again, hat in hand, looking for an address..... Does anyone, (and I certainly hope Pete is listening in...) out there know how to get in touch with Stevie Starr? He is know as The Regurgitator, and does this wild act where he swallows 5 coins, and then "throws in up" one at a time, according to the date on the coin that you name. But that's just his warm up. He goes on to do "wierd" stuff after that, like swallowing whole lightbulbs and stuff. Particularly effective for kids shows, I would imagine... Anyway, any phone number or address would be appreciated! Msg #23516 Dated 9:08:12 10-25-91 -> 23519 From: BILL WELLS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Whada mean...heart attack from me being online twice in two days... I go for quality not quantity. Msg #23517 Dated 9:08:21 10-25-91 -> 23525 From: BILL WELLS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: VIDEOS Does that mean Evelyn Wood is gonna read down the middle of the port instead of the middle of the page? Msg #23519 Dated 9:08:42 10-25-91 -> 23521 From: BILL WELLS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS I would think there would be some considerable demand for a nicely done catalog of the collection. Did they have one for the just completed sale? Msg #23520 Dated 9:08:52 10-25-91 -> 23549 From: BILL WELLS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS I remember being taken to such an establishment once in Louisville. It was just like in the movies. A slit in the door and having to say that someone send you. An anteroom just inside where you were checked out once again and had to open your jacket to let them check for "wires" or guns. Then admission to the casino. Well dressed folks and tables that folded into the walls like murphy beds. A real operation and running in high gear during Derby week which it was at the time. Msg #23521 Dated 9:09:13 10-25-91 -> 23529 From: BILL WELLS To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS No reason it can't be done more...except if you have to equip your on-the-spot reporters. I guess laptops with modems are just a tad more expensive than notepads and pencils. Msg #23524 Dated 9:10:15 10-25-91 -> 23530 From: BILL WELLS To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT I recall reading the article about the firm selling human bones. I am quite happy with the plastic skull that the kids made for school as it is quite well made and compares most favorably with the real thing that I am very familiar with from anatomy classes of long ago. . You really need to try more compatiable dishes for breakfast or make your valve settings one-directional. Msg #23525 Dated 9:10:34 10-25-91 -> 23546 From: BILL WELLS To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: VIDEOS Until the prices really drop a LOT, I guess I will just have to type and read faster. Msg #23527 Dated 9:11:16 10-25-91 -> 23661 From: BILL WELLS To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: SHORTENED MSG Detached works OK, but I think I actually meant to say "Detracted". Usually there is more than a misplaced "r" when it comes to feathers, skin, lights, and whatever you wish to name them. Msg #23528 Dated 9:11:26 10-25-91 22637 <--> 23662 From: BILL WELLS To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLENGE Didn't we already have this discussion after last year's DMS? Msg #23529 Dated 9:11:32 10-25-91 -> 23545 From: BILL WELLS To: T A WATERS (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS I don't know what his goals are for the use of the collection, and that would, of course, have a lot to do with the location. Climate control is gonna be essential almost anyplace unless he is going to put it into the salt mines. Msg #23530 Dated 9:11:44 10-25-91 -> 23550 From: BILL WELLS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT Pete...how did they keep the sheep from running away after each roll? Msg #23531 Dated 9:11:50 10-25-91 -> 23552 From: BILL WELLS To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: CASINO I guess we better see if the Birone and/or the Tabone are gonna hire some behind (or above) the scene gambling consultants. I don't think there is much question about where the odds would be in any casino those two might open. Msg #23533 Dated 10:26:46 10-25-91 23500 <--> 23588 From: PETE BIRO To: DOUG SMITH (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Then he poured a glass of milk? Msg #23534 Dated 10:26:49 10-25-91 23501 <--> 23593 From: PETE BIRO To: TABBY CRABB (X) Re: NUEVO DECARLO You won't be where? No where? Me Neither.... argh (will explane)* Msg #23536 Dated 10:26:58 10-25-91 23504 <- From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PHONE Gut hails a taxi, says to driver... "You got room for two pizzas and a case of beer?" Driver says, "Sure"... guy sticks head in window and BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFSSSSSSS Msg #23537 Dated 10:27:02 10-25-91 23506 <--> 23538 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE I just thought of something coooool. I will design a 10 minute semi close-up stand-up act. Supply manuscript, advice, props if needed... DESIGNED to become a Castle member. Will change each one to suit the needs so they all don't march in doing Chavez School of Magic kinda acts.... harh.... Msg #23539 Dated 10:27:12 10-25-91 23509 <- From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Tell that line to tab... might make a good song title.... Do song titles have to relate to the song? Msg #23540 Dated 10:27:16 10-25-91 23510 <--> 23667 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: TRICK IDEA.... A METHOD! Never thought of that. I have a nifty modus for the TR based on Alan Shaxon's. Msg #23541 Dated 10:27:20 10-25-91 23511 <--> 23569 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Yup.... one just as clever as the other Msg #23542 Dated 10:27:23 10-25-91 23512 <--> 23571 From: PETE BIRO To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X) Re: ADDRESS Biro here. Starr, no.... Ricky Jay probably knows him. I don't have the nr. for RJ, but he has an office in Hollywood at Andrew Solt Productions... try info... (Might have wrong first name, but Solt is correct) Msg #23545 Dated 10:28:02 10-25-91 23516 <--> 23548 From: PETE BIRO To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Pray tell is this a third straight day????????????????????/ YOwk Msg #23546 Dated 10:28:05 10-25-91 23517 <--> 23656 From: PETE BIRO To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: VIDEOS The middle of the Starboard! Msg #23548 Dated 10:28:11 10-25-91 23519 <--> 23655 From: PETE BIRO To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS NO CATALOG FOR SALE. That is why the French declined to bid. They said "We will offer money for it if WE KNEW WHAT IT INCLUDED!" Msg #23549 Dated 10:28:14 10-25-91 23520 <--> 24611 From: PETE BIRO To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS DID YOU VIDEOTAPE THE JOINT? Msg #23550 Dated 10:28:17 10-25-91 23524 <--> 23551 From: PETE BIRO To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT I remember at Abbotts about 10 years ago, some guy was selling HUMAN SKULLS and Hands (wired together) out of the trunk of his car. I almost bought a LEFT hand and was going to put a plaque on it saying "Lefty" and show it to Jay Marshall. But it was too much money for the laugh. Msg #23551 Dated 10:28:24 10-25-91 23530 <--> 23574 From: PETE BIRO To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT They just rolled over and PLAYED DEAD? Msg #23552 Dated 10:28:27 10-25-91 23531 <--> 24614 From: PETE BIRO To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: CASINO You should read my movie treatment for "Last Chance Truck Stop Casino and Country Club"... Msg #23555 Dated 13:11:15 10-25-91 -> 23675 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS David, I was hoping that using the same subject message would do the trick, but yours is a simpler way to reply, and I'll do so. Thanks. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23556 Dated 13:45:36 10-25-91 -> 23584 From: MARVIN STERN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: JUGGLER The word is that the guy whose phone number you asked for, is hard to get in touch with. They say to call Frank Olivier, (415) 525-0565. If he doesn't have it, let me know and the guys said they would check further, and could probably get it, in a couple-three days. Msg #23558 Dated 16:13:55 10-25-91 -> 23564 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Pete, Is it considered bad form to come up with new illusions for an act? I see people using the EXACT same things over and over. Is there no worry of stealing material in magic? I don't see any of this sort of thing for any other field of entertainment, and it just seems strange to me. By the way, do you ever let acts you've turned down know why you turn them down, or do you just find that they don't care? Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23559 Dated 16:19:15 10-25-91 -> 23566 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Pete, Good ideas for the audition. I'm not sure I catch all of your references (actually, I'm quite sure I don't catch all of your references) but I would certainly LOVE to have someone set the pace for an audition. I was wondering the other day, ( and too lazy to find out) if a svengali deck would work with more "regular" sized cards than just one? For instance, in the chip- chain trick that we've all been talking about, If you made one of the six colored cards shorter, would a person reliably cut to it? Maybe I'll have to build a deck and see if it works. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23560 Dated 16:19:23 10-25-91 -> 23587 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Pete, You are more than welcome to bunk here as a halfway point to ensenada. Would love to meet you! If you're schedule doesn't permit that long a layover, maybe we can get together for coffee or something. Let me know. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23561 Dated 16:19:28 10-25-91 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Pete, I'm writing this message on a Friday, and suddenly had time vertigo when I read your message. You know, that feeling of panic which says "hey, aren't you supposed to be someplace." Then I remembered that Daylight savings doesn't go into effect until Sunday. Whew! Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23562 Dated 16:19:34 10-25-91 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I'm glad to see that someone else shares my performing nightmares. The worst is when you get finished with what you KNOW is a bad performance, and some well-meaning individual tells you how great he thought it was. What do you say? "Are you out of your mind?! That was TERRIBLE." No, you have to say "Thanks, glad you enjoyed it.!" ARgh!(tm Biro) Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23563 Dated 16:19:40 10-25-91 -> 23575 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Yeah, I had three days like that this morning. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23564 Dated 16:19:45 10-25-91 -> 23585 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION David, I still have "free air for life" stickers on my scuba tanks. I didn't realize they meant the life of the shop. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23565 Dated 16:59:57 10-25-91 -> 23720 From: STAN LAKE To: BRUCE SANDERCOCK (X) Re: CASTLE I haven't. But I keep getting home to late to call and complain. I don't even know who is appearing this week. Msg #23566 Dated 17:07:17 10-25-91 -> 23567 From: STAN LAKE To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I'll be teaching him some things with ropes and other easy to handle props. A few original but easy to do card tricks also as he likes to work with them so much. Msg #23567 Dated 17:09:30 10-25-91 -> 23568 From: STAN LAKE To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I keep trying to learn the one handed shuffle off and on. It's a bit frustrating as I'm trying to reconstruct what I have seen others do without ever having had any instruction on it. Joycee Beck snaps them one after another when she's warmed up. Looks pretty cool to me although you won't get invited into many poker games that way. Msg #23568 Dated 17:13:02 10-25-91 23505 <--> 23586 From: STAN LAKE To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I've made a note of that thank you. I think Scarnes book of 150 card tricks would also be good. If I remember it does not require any sleights either. Msg #23569 Dated 17:14:32 10-25-91 -> 23570 From: STAN LAKE To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Do you know Dennis Heacock, another Castle member? He carries around a large credit card type wallet with some 15 or 20 different packet tricks all neatly stored in envelopes. He says he really loves 'em but I wonder if he ever asked his audience if they do too? I know what you mean about seeming contrived. It's not like taking a few cards out of a regular deck and doing a trick like Twisting the Aces. On the other hand they are practical to do while waiting in line there. Msg #23570 Dated 17:19:42 10-25-91 23511 <--> 23573 From: STAN LAKE To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Hey wait 'til I tell Dennis Heacock about that idea! Room for 200 envelopes in a briefcase- think big Dennis, how about a Samsonite suitcase? Stuff a thousand of those babies in there and he'll really be the life of the party! Msg #23571 Dated 17:59:50 10-25-91 23542 <--> 23606 From: MICHAEL AMMAR To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: ADDRESS Thanks anyway, Pete! As a general rule, though, you seem to know how to reach these guys. Starr sounds like a natural for the Corporate Picnic! Msg #23573 Dated 23:48:21 10-25-91 23569 <--> 23579 From: T A WATERS To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Actually -- the ORIGINAL Fa-Ko Deck (not the collection of faked cards now put out by Haines) was a complete act of packet tricks, done one after the other with the cards as they came off the deck. It was rather nicely thought out, and the idea of working from a full deck os of course much more logical. It was created by Syl Reilly, the guy who started the Magi-Fests in Columbus, O. There are SOME packet tricks -- Gypsy Curse for example -- where the small packet makes sense; another is 5-Card Polka -- but most of them just look silly coming out of an envelope or wallet. You're practically telling people they aren't ordinary cards. Msg #23574 Dated 23:54:14 10-25-91 23550 <--> 23659 From: T A WATERS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT A long time ago there was a mass murderer who had a huge house at 63rd and Wallace in Chicago; killed a lotta people in various rooms designed for the purpose. On the Wallace street side of the building he had several shops. One sold human skulls and skeletons -- and no one ever asked where they came from... ...his name was Herman Mudgett, and he used the alias of H. H. Holmes. Msg #23575 Dated 23:56:35 10-25-91 23537 <--> 23663 From: T A WATERS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE I just thought of a better service, Pete; you take a life mask of them and make a prosthetic piece which you then wear, doing the audition AS them. A full-service audition company. Msg #23577 Dated 1:04:42 10-26-91 -> 23589 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: DAVID COPPERFIELD Just returned to the room after seeing the David Copperfield show. It is totally fantastic! If you read Biro's message from last week - well, I'll say the same, only double, in spades. This is what magic should be like - beautiful work, poetry for the mind and the soul. . The "secret" is already out here on MAGIC! - for the past three weeks David has been flying. Biro already told you about it. And it is incredible to watch. It is not only stunning, it is choreographed in David's own fluid style. He flies, he floats, it is beautiful to watch. David starts out by explaining that as a young boy he dreamed of flying as an escape from reality and when he executes it, you can feel the dream, you can feel the escape. The audience went wild - a long standing ovation. I would assume that happens at every performance - it is superbly powerful and David and John Gaughan should be very, very proud of it. . A surprise to me - David is doing the Pendragon's penentration. Again, very stylized and very beautiful. . Bottom line - Anytime you get a chance to see David work, DO SO. When I get back to Techy Heaven, I'll be posting his tour schedule. Msg #23578 Dated 1:06:17 10-26-91 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: COPPERFIELD - NOTES Personal sidebars to my message: . 1) I am too tired and the equipment I'm carrying is too restricted for me to try to read and respond to messages, so that will have to wait until I get back. . 2) I now know what it feels like to travel in the wake of a famous person! After the show, we were invited backstage. David walked in and said, "Hi! Good to see you again." Then turned to Nathan, shook his hand, and THEY chatted! It was nice to know that everyone had their priorities straight! Msg #23579 Dated 1:09:33 10-26-91 23569 <--> 23622 From: DAVID VANVRANKEN To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Hi Stan, I too enjoy packet tricks. One of my early favorites was Back Flips. Any handling touches you've devised would be welcome. I'm pretty comfortable with the standard handling, using Vernon's "Twisting the Aces" style of the Elmsley. I have another variation taught by Bob Jardine that uses one less card, but sacrifices the third change. Handling is the same except for something I added. With a little roughing spray, I can cause the first back color (blue) to cling to itself,(why not?, after all they're my cards, aren't they?) making an all face up display immediately possible after the one-at-a-time flips. These are then turned over showing the "Marked Cards" with a color change to red. If you're mods affect the single turn-overs, I'd be extremely interested in trying it out. I've had rather good luck adding on a small stack (about two packet tricks worth, plus an odd back) to a borrowed deck. It's not hard to find someone at the magic meetings with a blue Bicycle deck. They're really puzzled when they see these things happen with their own cards! After I run out of packet cards and set them aside, I'm back with a straight deck to continue my miracle working. Have fun! David (the other one) Msg #23581 Dated 1:10:27 10-26-91 -> 23756 From: DAVID VANVRANKEN To: TABBY CRABB (X) Re: FOR THE BIRDS How's you're move coming? Smoothly I hope. Have you found a home for your ringnecks? I'm still interested if you want me to put them up for you. I have an area I've been wanting to finish into an aviary anyway, just never had the time or the birds for it. I wouldn't take me long at all to complete it. It's in an alcove off the front door with walls on the north and west and an open skylight. I just need to add some aviary screen to the east side and the skylight and I'm ready. It even has plumbing ready for a birdbath/fountain tied into the sprinkler system guaranteeing fresh water, and misters overhead to help out in the summer heat. Again, just let me know how much you need for shipping, and I'll drop a check in the mail. Drive safely, David (the other one) Msg #23583 Dated 1:17:32 10-26-91 From: DAVID VANVRANKEN To: GENO MUNARI (X) Re: MAGIC AT MELINDA'S Have you gotten a chance to try your new toys I loaded last night? I always enjoy playing on other PC's. I'm always tring to keep up with new models that might work better at my job. I sometimes have to network up to twenty portables together for all the Admin types that show up in the field. That Toshiba is nice! Small, lightweight,... By the way, how long do the batteries last? I think I saw two in there. Can you stay running while you switch out one at a time? I'm forever having someone kill the power to mine while we're packing up to go home. I'm busy on dBase, trying to check in our radios, cell phones, etc., and.................. You can't even begin to imagine what havoc that causes in my files! I really enjoyed the show (yours and Melinda's) Thank you for sharing it with me. Melinda has come a long way since we first met sitting across the table from Jimmy Grippo some five years ago. I remember he did a wonderful Cards to Pocket that night while his daughter(?) videotaped the event. I consider you and Jimmy as my first inspirations to get serious about learning magic. You're "Drunk test" routine (Vernon's Variant, with my premise of trying to teach the trick to them) is still my favorite effect with small groups at parties. I just came home from a party where I almost ran out of cards as everyone wanted to try it for themselves. I even tried a burnt match to matchbook restoration ala Darwin but without thumbtip that fooled even me! (I'm learning that all these coin moves cluttering my head are great for things besides coins!) Tell Melinda, Bonnie, and Rusty hi for me. I hope I get the chance to see them all again soon. She's got quite an exciting show going for her. (One thing though, do you think a pink electric guitar really belongs in a wild west saloon number? Also redecorating her glass box maybe, adding a little oak veneer might add some continuity to an otherwise strong production. Just a thought.) See you soon, David (the other one) Msg #23584 Dated 1:39:26 10-26-91 23556 <- From: PETE BIRO To: MARVIN STERN (X) Re: JUGGLER thanks muchoo... got so much to do this week will wait a bit... Msg #23585 Dated 1:39:29 10-26-91 23558 <--> 23636 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I try to be POLITE, but generally say, "it is not a convention act, sure it goes well with the laymen, but we are looking for different twists to the stock stuff...." . Then there are the easy ones... "I can't afford your price!" Which is becoming more the way it is going... . I don't get it... we used to do shows on conventions because it was fun and the exposure was good... if we broke even we were thrilled! . It might go the other way, in that an act will be considered a full pro and like a club date. Pay the fee, ONE NIGHT lodging, and let 'em go home.... I hate to see that but it is coming. . Regarding coming up with original stuff. . By all means... the performers with original stuff to me are the stars... . You got it... the same things over and over again is amazing... there is so much stuff in print, etc. But you see not many know what it means to be a performer. In music the good ones wouldn't think of doing anyone elses songs... Only on rare occasions and usually a classic... Like Michael Bolton's treatment of "Georgia" with Ray Charles... magic that was... . No, most magicians are too lazy to do anything but what they have just seen. Figuring if they saw Copperfield do it it must be good, so why try to come up with something of their own! . I worked 5 years building one 6 minute hunk, that I close with! Msg #23586 Dated 1:40:00 10-26-91 23559 <--> 23637 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION You want someone to cut to a specific card? Try this. Cut the card all around a tiny bit smaller (this isn't easy) or maybe just one direction, study to see where the average person grabs deck to cut. . Then take about half tahe deck and punch a hole in the middle of each card and sew them all together but loosely, so they stack normal height, but will be a loose lump. Glue cards top and bottom to hide the stringing. . Put the small card on top of the remaining cards and the glued hunk on top of all. . It is a rist thing... but a Killer if you manage it... Ask someone to cut off about half the cards.... YOUR WORK IS DONE.... HEHEHEH . You might want to pencil dot the force card so you see it is where you want it at the critical time. . You can also do something like this without the lump, by putting a little salt on the top card (the force card) then cut it near center and ask someone to cut... this is risky but a good operator can make it work. . Corner short forcing or some other stock forces can be used as well. I like to have the force card on the bottom. Ask someone to cut off part of the cards and place here (point to a spot) Pick up the lower cards and turn 1/4 around placing on top of those cut off. Saying, "I'll leave the cards turned this way so you can remember where you cut" you now go into next phase of trick, but stop saying, "Did you look at the card? No... well here (you lift up the top portion and show them the bottom (force) card) and the work is done... I have used this a million times. It is fool proof. I am the fool to proof it... argh... Msg #23587 Dated 1:40:32 10-26-91 23560 <- From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE I have to stop over on the way down in Ventura to see my ex assistant and sort out some stuff... on way back going to the collector's seminar on magic history in Hollywood area... Thanks.. be in tuch.... Msg #23588 Dated 4:22:47 10-26-91 23533 <--> 23592 From: DOUG SMITH To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION NO. He was looking for chips toput on a chain,but could only find brown ones. UGH Msg #23589 Dated 4:23:46 10-26-91 23577 <--> 23596 From: DOUG SMITH To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: DAVID COPPERFIELD I'm glad to hear DC show is better. The last time he came to Rockford his show was a waste of money. The show ran one and aquarter hour. Had two film clips of his TV specials, repeated segments that were nice the previous time but were not worth seeing twice, and had a takeoff on a clown routine that involved a banana that had been around for quite awhile. We will take in the show when it comes by. We would rather see the show in LV than locally as the seats are better in LV than what we can get locally. Msg #23592 Dated 11:13:38 10-26-91 23500 <--> 23595 From: PETE BIRO To: DOUG SMITH (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Then he poured a glass of milk? Msg #23593 Dated 11:13:41 10-26-91 23501 <--> 23719 From: PETE BIRO To: TABBY CRABB (X) Re: NUEVO DECARLO You won't be where? No where? Me Neither.... argh (will explane)* Msg #23595 Dated 11:14:12 10-26-91 23588 <--> 23619 From: PETE BIRO To: PETE BIRO Re: MAGIC AUDITION Actually if you get a sufficiently long enough chain, and place tortilla chips at the correct intervals, the Salsa will do a good job of attracting flies. Frogs are notoriously hungry for flies. Msg #23596 Dated 11:14:17 10-26-91 23589 <--> 23620 From: PETE BIRO To: DOUG SMITH (X) Re: DAVID COPPERFIELD It isn't better... it's COLLOSSAL... DC has come a loooooooong way. I know in the beginning some of the "playlets" were slow and did not do a lot for me... But there is no substitute for LIVE performing. Look at those magical performers that you see that are terrific. Goshman was one of the great examples. He (they) have done their shows THOUSANDS and THOUSANDS of times. Honing, learning, improving, discovering what it is that works... building their CONFIDENCE and style, getting things to operate smoothly, developing the choice of material, gaining the experience. It is worth a loooooooooooong trip to see what Copperfield is now doing. You, and all of us, should be extremely proud to be fans of magic and to be associated with the art when somene brings it to the level he has. He is headlining the top showroom in the world... the place where Sinatra used to be king! His tickets are sold out every show. The fans are tearing at him like he was a rock star. ....whew, I have been ramblin' but how many magicians are there that you can say the above about? YO....!!!! Msg #23598 Dated 11:15:23 10-26-91 -> 23689 From: PETE BIRO To: TABBY CRABB (X) Re: KEEP THE WHEELS Ee;23589 Tabman... Keep your wheels turnin... (or as the truckers say) Keep the rubber to the road and a smile on your face! I know draggin yo butt back and forth from Balto to Nashvillage has to be a chore... like a band on the road that don't stop to play! I remember one time I was in a terrible, but nifty little hole of a bar in Daytona Beach, Florida. Chattin' with the owner who's specialty drink was made in a douche bag!!! and he said, "Hey an old pal of your came by here last week on his way to a big race..." This was strange, the guy, "Oskar Kovaleski" (pres. of the PRDA - Polish Racing Drivers Assn.) LIVED in Pennsylvania and there were no races going on in Florida. I asked the dude pouring the likker, "What race was he goin to?" He answered, "Watkins Glen". OK, Oskar lives in Pennsylvania, the Glen is in UPSTATE NEW YORK. Do you think Daytona Beach was a hair out of his way, or what? It was a great bar. Some of the bar stools and side tables were made out of famous race cars that had been put into the CRUSHER and made into cubes! Cars that were raced by Jr. Johnson, Curtis Turner and built by Smokey Yunick! If anybody gets down that way... name of the joint is Paleface Harbor! Msg #23599 Dated 11:15:48 10-26-91 -> 23607 From: PETE BIRO To: ALL Re: LINGO Ee;23589 Anyone out there want to learn to speak a new language INSTANTLY. A way to talk without others knowing what you are saying? Learn Carnival Talk. Example: Take a card can be pronounced several ways. The key is to INSERT a or into a word following a vowel. An easy example of Take a card adding a "Z" (you can use an "LF" or any letter OR LETTERS you want)... with the Z it is: TAZAKE AZEE CAZARD. Or: TALFAKE ALFA CALFARD. (YOU REPEAT THE VOWEL AFTER THE INSERTION.) This can be great fun for two people to work on and when you are say, shopping and you want to discuss someting you might say this: "IZITS OZOK, BUZUT COZOSTS TOOZOO MUZUCH. Or, "ILFITS OLFOKA BULFUT COLFOSTS TOOLFOO MULFUCH" This can come in hand when negotiation or haggling over something you don't want a third party in on. Just another friendly service of the MAGIC! Boazoard ozof Dizirezectozors. Hozope youzou lizike izit! (I prefer the LV myself and sometimes even "GIZ" -- YOU CAN WORK OUT YOUR ONE KEY... And you can switch from word to word. Like... "Wozord tolfo wogizord". End lesson 27. (will be a chapter in my second book). Msg #23600 Dated 11:16:12 10-26-91 -> 23691 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X) Re: FILE Ee;23589 Hey I tried to download "LORAYNE.TXT" and it twerent there? Wha? Msg #23602 Dated 14:13:03 10-26-91 -> 23692 From: GENO MUNARI To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLENGE Kevin, I don't know the effect....exactly what is the idea? thanks S Er;23328 No....but we will do the book. S Er;23442 Fine....when is COMDEX over? I would like to go....and we will have lunch....CAFE MICHELE? S Er;23468 I think you are right Dante. I will send you a couple of items that may interest you. I will fax them, and hope they may be of use t to you. Geno S Er;23468 I will send you something that you might like...thanks for the intere st. S Msg #23603 Dated 15:00:28 10-26-91 From: PETE BIRO To: GENO MUNARI (X) Re: MESSAGE MESS Geno, I think you have a glitch in your IMP program all the messages came out as one long message to various folks...???? Also did you get my msg about the need for some dice blanks? I guess I need to call you on phone... will do so. Msg #23605 Dated 15:11:29 10-26-91 -> 23615 From: STEVE BRYANT To: ALL Re: PENDRAGONS Just noticed in TV GUIDE that the Pendragons are listed to be on Fox Sunday Comics tomorrow night. Msg #23606 Dated 15:39:42 10-26-91 23512 <--> 23621 From: SCOTT ALCALAY To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X) Re: ADDRESS hey now michael, i heard some guy is doing that at a local restaurant!! :hahaha: Msg #23607 Dated 15:42:43 10-26-91 23599 <--> 23616 From: SCOTT ALCALAY To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: LINGO isn' the lingo called (besides carny, no relation to JOHN) what about ubby-dubby which is very simaler....years ago when bob mcallister had been doing the syndicated "wonderama" they had taught that way of lingo along with pig latin Msg #23611 Dated 16:07:43 10-26-91 From: SCOTT CRAM To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC NIGHT Well, she's got plenty of Wednesdays to get her wardrobe right! Hope you get there sooner or later... Msg #23615 Dated 18:21:32 10-26-91 23605 <--> 23842 From: PETE BIRO To: STEVE BRYANT (X) Re: PENDRAGONS Thanks for the notation on the Pendragons... will see when they are on in the SF area... Msg #23616 Dated 18:21:35 10-26-91 23607 <--> 23639 From: PETE BIRO To: SCOTT ALCALAY (X) Re: LINGO Never heard of Ubby Dubby, but could be.... I learned it years ago from a guy that learned it in a Carnival. Msg #23619 Dated 19:19:11 10-26-91 23592 <- From: DOUG SMITH To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Hefirst took a milk bath but it was not past his eyes but was past his b%^&*(%$&*)&^%..... Msg #23620 Dated 19:20:29 10-26-91 23596 <--> 23625 From: DOUG SMITH To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: DAVID COPPERFIELD Yes that is why I like magic. The first lecture i ever attended was with Johnny Thompson and a couple of months latter i heard Goshman and had the pleasure to be one of the two assistants. So you can see we got off to a good start.....Goshman was interesting as at one time we were buying casesof sponge rubber balls...i always enjoyed the phone converstations as we would tell me what others were doing with the sponge rubber and how much they charged. Thanks for the converstation. Msg #23621 Dated 21:11:12 10-26-91 23606 <--> 23826 From: MICHAEL AMMAR To: SCOTT ALCALAY (X) Re: ADDRESS yessir, yessir! Msg #23622 Dated 1:03:39 10-27-91 23573 <--> 23623 From: STAN LAKE To: T A WATERS (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS That is a nice idea to have an entire deck setup for one packet trick after another or to have a packet of cards added to the top of a regular deck. I agree, it's much better than taking a few cards out of an envelope and saying "Here are a few ordinary cards taken from an ordinary deck- as are the rest of these little envelopes." Msg #23623 Dated 1:07:27 10-27-91 23579 <--> 23626 From: STAN LAKE To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS I'm not sure if what I have learned is the standard "Back Flips" but it consists of a red backed King face down on the bottom of the packet and four face up Kings above that. They are only aware of four of course and they only see one back, the red one. In reality, the cards all have different back designs and colors. After I have shown all of the Kings turn over one at a time I ask if they can remember what color the backs of the cards are and they say red as that is all they have seen. I won't try to describe the standard method of showing the backs but what I do is hold the cards face up in my left hand which is palm up. The red back King is back on the bottom of the packet face down. As I ask them what color the backs are I draw down the right rear corner of the bottom red backed King with my left pinky just a bit. I draw the top card off the front of the deck and turn it over so they can see the back. I lay it back down over the rear half of the packet still holding on to it. I say "You didn't see blue?" I then apparently place it on the bottom of the packet but really slip it in between the bottom card and the second to the bottom card. I release the pinky break and continue to show and place the next two cards fairly on the bottom of the packet. The last King I turn over and below that they can see the first blue back I showed them. I leave the last King on top of the packet rather than placing it on the bottom. I then square the cards which are all backs up. What you really have is a red backed King face down in between four other odd backed Kings. The red one is third from the top or bottom. With the cards squared in the right hand I draw the bottom card out sideways about a third of the way. I do the same with the next card up. I then keep my left thumb on top and fingers below to hold the packet as my right thumb and forefinger squeeze the top card singly off to the right leaving the double card in the center. I did this particular effect for a crowd just tonight and it was as good as anything else I had. Easy too! Msg #23624 Dated 1:36:17 10-27-91 -> 23627 From: STAN LAKE To: ALL Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY I just got back from doing a Halloween show. I thought I would do a handful of standard magic type items and then segue into mentalism, and other assorted strange stuff. It was definitely a learning experience. I have never worked for a crowd that has been doing a lot of drinking and crowd control was not one of the things I had planned for. The first part of the show went pretty well. They see something and now it's gone, very visual easy to follow. When I got into the mentalism and requested people to think or concentrate I was really asking too much. It didn't hold their interest and people are yakking back and forth, sloshing beer around and generally carrying on like the zookeeper was away. I have seen and heard of people who could command any crowds attention. Does this come from the performer more than their selection of effects? How does one go about learning to keep an unruly crowd on the edge of their seats and interested in what's going on? I'm wiped out right now. I'll check back with you all tomorrow. Does any one know who is at the Castle this week or next week? They are a little late with the schedules again. Is the pig still there? Kevin Curtin, if you're reading this I will probably go tomorrow (Sunday evening) or maybe Wednesday. Give me a call... Msg #23625 Dated 8:35:48 10-27-91 23620 <--> 23638 From: PETE BIRO To: DOUG SMITH (X) Re: DAVID COPPERFIELD Starting "at the top" is tough... they are a couple of tough acts to follow... but that can be good, it gives you a target for all that follow. Msg #23626 Dated 8:35:53 10-27-91 23622 <--> 23671 From: PETE BIRO To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS I open with a packet trick. I do not use an envelope. I have a card case that has been cut down to the thickness of the four cards. The effect is a "put on" with a kicker finish... it seems like I am showing them four cards that are all the same, claiming it to be a single Jack of Hearts "the Jumping Jack" that keeps coming to the top... just when they start to think the four cards are all the same I say, "You think these cards are all the same? Well, they are". Then turn them face up showing ALL FOUR ARE JOKERS. Got this from a book "Tricks You Can Count On" -- I think it was a Larry West effect... at least 20 years ago! The only other tricks with gaffed "packets" are the MacDonald Aces (I secretly add the gaffed cards) and Versa Plus -- in that one I have the single gaffed card at the face of a full deck with the dupe below it. I used to do the Sidewalk Shuffle, altho being a JUMBO card trick it isn't considered a packet trick as you aren't using standard sized cards (in my opinion). A good on that could be brought back as "new" again, would be Pat Page's Kitson Miracle. A three card monte that is easy to do and very effective. Msg #23627 Dated 8:36:13 10-27-91 23624 <--> 23628 From: PETE BIRO To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY I can give you two experiences in crowd control. The first was a booking I got from an agent that DID NOT TELL ME IT WAS A STAG SHOW FOR A PLUMBER'S UNION! When I got there they were already drunk and disorderly. The dressing rooms were taken up by three strippers! I was the opening act. I started and nobody really cared that I was onstage. They started to shout "Show us YOUR ti*s!" -- I then recalled a phrase Al Koran used in his lectures. "There are horses for different courses... I'm not a horse for this course, God Bless You... and Goodnight!" (Said it and walked off). The agent was furious... I said "forget the pay, this is a mistake -- adios... he said "No, I'll straighten things out...." So I stuck around. One of the strippers worked... then the guy begged me to go back on. I did. I forget what I said, but they suddenly had a little respect for me since I had literally told them off. It went OK, not great, but it ended up the agent was happy and I got the money! The second is a killer story. I may have told it online some time ago... but it is worth repeating. I will tighten it up a bit. Dr. Albo, when his FIRST book was published threw a party to celebrate the occasion. He booked a country club near his home. He brought in many acts... from New York, and guest of honor was Al Flosso. From the Magic Castle he had several of the better names to work, and Bill and Irene Larsen as guests. And a couple of the local magi, plus yours truly as MC for the Cabaret show. The proceedings (OH, most of the guests were Dr's, etc. NOT magicians) started with close up tables in the corners of the room and was going well. Then the Cabaret show. They had a raised platform stage, but the loose chairs were not 100-percent all lined up, but it was OK, as about 60-percent could sit and the rest could stand around and all would be OK for visibility. We started the show with a solid act... but NOBODY was paying any attention... just a few kids. Most of the people were there to be seen and to talk to one another! The next act went on and same story... HARDLY ANYONE WAS REALLY PAYING ATTENTION. Next act, just before I intro'd him said "I'm going to do about 3 minutes and split" -- I said, You can't do that it isn't fair to Doc, who's paying you good money... He begrudgingly did about 8-10 minutes. Suddenly Albo came backstage (I was set to go on next) and said, "Let's put Flosso on now" -- I said, "Fine" and introduced Al. WELL, HERE IS THE LESSON. This man, a genius, one who had probably done 5,000 shows to tough audiences everywhere... JUST STOPPED THE PLACE COLD... he blew a whistle, did not go into his act... he TALKED TO THE CROWD, got their interest told them to sit down told them to watch what he was going to do.... THEN, ONCE HE GOT THEM QUIET.... went into his act. He killed them. Then, God Bless him, he finished and said...."Now here it is.... the closing act, the one you have been waiting for... the star tonight... and he introduced me. The audience was set, they had just seen a great performer who had them totally under control. And he said that I was the one they were waiting for!!! What a set up... I went on and could do no wrong. Killed 'em... and it was all due to the way Al Flosso HANDLED and SET UP the audience! HE HAD THE KNOWLEDGE AND MORE, THE EXPERIENCE TO KNOW HOW TO DO THIS... IT IS A GREAT LESSON! I don't know if this would have helped in your situation... but it shows it can be done. And when you know it can be done... you can do it... you just need to figure the approach and TAKE OVER. TAKING CHARGE IS WHAT IT IS ALL ABOUT. Not everyone will have the personality and/or thea ability to do this... YOU ALSO MUST HAVE MATERIAL THAT WILL HOLD THEIR ATTENTION and not be the same old crap that they have seen before... or at least the presentation must be solid enought and interesting enough... Much to think about. Good luck. Msg #23628 Dated 8:37:14 10-27-91 23624 <--> 23632 From: PETE BIRO To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Second reply to same message. DON'T TAKE ANY SHOWS FOR NEW YEARS EVE... I don't know anything that will work there... NOBODY WANTS TO THINK on that night. We did a killer review show for an Army Officers club one New Years Eve and I don't think anybody in the place watched it! Msg #23629 Dated 9:41:12 10-27-91 -> 23634 From: GENO MUNARI To: ALL Re: SNEAKY BUSINESS I am looking for a bok that Don Alan wrote, called pretty sneaky. Anyone have one for sale? Also looking for a Paul Fox vanishing beer and sack trick.....thanks Geno. Msg #23632 Dated 11:59:21 10-27-91 23627 <--> 23633 From: STAN LAKE To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Thanks Pete, that is a lot to think about. Had I known what I was in for I would not have chosen the material I did. In that particular situation I was in last night they enjoyed the comedy and the visual stuff but they didn't want to have to think. They were content enough to swill their beer and drool on themselves and cast their glazed eyes in my direction as long as they weren't asked to mentally participate. I had rehearsed the show for a long time but I had never given many of these effects to a live audience to see the impact (or lack thereof). All shows are a learning experience for me and I got quite a bit out of that one. At least the sober ones enjoyed it. The host gave me a $20 tip so it couldn't have been to bad. I liked the idea of blowing the whistle to get their attention. A good loud realistic looking blank firing gun would be good too. A real one might be better! Msg #23633 Dated 12:10:20 10-27-91 23628 <--> 23642 From: STAN LAKE To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY I'd take a New Years Eve show anyway and just think of it as a paid rehearsal! Msg #23634 Dated 12:11:35 10-27-91 23629 <--> 23641 From: STAN LAKE To: GENO MUNARI (X) Re: SNEAKY BUSINESS I'm looking for the same book and if I find two I'll let you know. Keep me in mind if you find an extra too, ok? Thanks! Msg #23635 Dated 12:56:44 10-27-91 -> 23644 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CATALOG Pete, I got home last night and found two packages in my mailbox. The catalog you sent me, and the Gambler's Book Club catalog. Yea! Thanks very much! Have you received the juggling tape yet? Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23636 Dated 12:56:55 10-27-91 23585 <--> 23645 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Pete, Pricing has ALWAYS been a problem for me. Whether I was doing computer consulting, or playing guitar, or whatever. I HATE pricing myself. I've always enjoyed close-up magic, but most of the effects I've come up with are large stage material. Maybe my mind is just warped. In all fairness to copy-cat magicians, the same principles are used over and over even with someone like Copperfield. A new principle is a rare and treasured thing, and can really make a magician. I can understand and appreciate how much time can go into creating an original act. Steve Martin, when asked why he gave up stand-up comedy for movies, said that he had spent 25 years creating two acts, and he's used them both. He didn't want to spend another 25 years on more material. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23637 Dated 12:57:04 10-27-91 23586 <--> 23646 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Pete, I always enjoy hearing about forces. They seem to me to be the most miraculous type of card trick to the non-magician. Thanks! Kevin Msg #23638 Dated 12:57:09 10-27-91 23589 <--> 23687 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: DOUG SMITH (X) Re: DAVID COPPERFIELD Doug, I had heard the same thing about the Copperfield show, and am glad that I missed that one. I will do everything possible to see the new one. I haven't heard a bad thing yet about it. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23639 Dated 12:57:14 10-27-91 23599 <--> 23647 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: LINGO Pete, The lingo I learned when I was a kid was "ong" language. You would spell out everything you said, and put an "ong" behind the consanants. You would just say the vowells. This sounds like gibberish, but if you wanted to say "TAKE A CARD" you would say "tong a kong e a cong a rong dong." While this takes longer, I found it easier to understand. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23641 Dated 13:27:19 10-27-91 23629 <--> 23643 From: PETE BIRO To: GENO MUNARI (X) Re: SNEAKY BUSINESS I had Pretty Sneaky and can't find it!!! Argh... if I get to see any at Byron Walker's (he has tons of books) will let you know. The Paul Fox Beer trick IS NOT AVAILABLE... it is a production. You might want to check a book (commonly available) by Pat Page, "Pages from Patrick's Notebook" -- where he has a GREAT version of the beer trick (named after ME... the "Birocan" he calls it!!) It is a beautiful gaff for showing an empty beer can and producing beer into it. Msg #23642 Dated 13:27:28 10-27-91 23632 <--> 23649 From: PETE BIRO To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY A gun can be too much... you might injure someone's ears. It is OK on a stage, but in a close environment stay away from the noise of a blank charge. And the smoke/smell. Msg #23643 Dated 13:27:33 10-27-91 23634 <--> 23648 From: PETE BIRO To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: SNEAKY BUSINESS Stan and Geno... I have heard a KILLER hardbound Don Alan book HAS BEEN WRITTEN and is at press with L&L... THIS IS ONE I CAN'T WAIT FOR! Msg #23644 Dated 13:27:38 10-27-91 23635 <--> 23677 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: CATALOG Not yet, but I haven't received a large check that was mailed almost 2 weeks ago and a package from Joe Stevens that is a week late! Msg #23645 Dated 13:27:42 10-27-91 23636 <--> 23670 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I wish Steve was doing stage stand up... I think he is medium bad in movies. Too corny... weak material. THAT IS MY OPINION. . It shows you how long it takes to hone a stand up ACT. Then there is a different genre, like Leno, who merely comments on current news. There the developement is in choice of material and delivery, timing, likability etc. All still takes tons of time/experience! Msg #23646 Dated 13:27:50 10-27-91 23637 <--> 23668 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I think Annemen has a book, 202 Methods of Forcing. Uh, try this. Put a couple of dots of epoxy resin on a card. Let it dry. Put it on bottom of the deck. Force card on top. Cut both to center area. Have spectator cut and look at the card on top of the portion they cut to. You can pick up the talon and by feel see if the dots are on the bottom card. If so... you hit! . You can also toss the deck across a bar in front of someone and it will break slightly at that point. IF THEY ARE LAZY, WHEN YOU SAY "GRAB ANY OLE CARD" they will take the card at the open spot. . NOW YOU GOT EM!!!!!!!!!!! . The Resin principle is Dutch Magician Dick Koornwinder's creation. I never work without it. Msg #23647 Dated 13:28:06 10-27-91 23639 <--> 23680 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: LINGO Kevin, thoucge jhiur j9ieurij ooieurjm oiur joiyhgeuil. (I don't know what I wrote, but thought it would be funny. Let me know. Msg #23648 Dated 14:20:03 10-27-91 23643 <--> 23652 From: STAN LAKE To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: SNEAKY BUSINESS That's good news. Any idea what the content will be? I hope to purchase it through one of our Magic! members when it's available. Msg #23649 Dated 14:24:43 10-27-91 23642 <--> 23666 From: STAN LAKE To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY I should have put a after that comment about the gun. If you need that to get their attention you are either in the wrong place or the wrong business. Msg #23651 Dated 21:18:06 10-27-91 -> 23653 From: GARY PLANTS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: COPPERFIELD Pete, Copperfield is coming to Charleston, WV on November 20. Tickets will go on sale in the morning and I will be there waiting in line. Can't wait to see this levitation that you mentioned. Sounds like you had fun in L.A. Thanks for everything (you know what I mean). Tell me more about your recent purchase!!! Msg #23652 Dated 22:07:01 10-27-91 23648 <--> 23903 From: PETE BIRO To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: SNEAKY BUSINESS No idea... in hands of L&L. Msg #23653 Dated 22:07:34 10-27-91 23651 <--> 23724 From: PETE BIRO To: GARY PLANTS (X) Re: COPPERFIELD Was a swap.... is original dice making dies, slugs, weights, drills, etc from gaffed dice dept. of S.F. Card co. Got to learn to operate and make things like flats, miss spots, etc. but no time for awhile. too much else to get in order.f Atlanta just blew the w series... fooooooooooooo Msg #23655 Dated 22:27:58 10-27-91 23521 <--> 24608 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS To paraphrase Pogo, "I've met the 'on-the-spot reporters,' and they is us." The instant news that appears on MAGIC! only happens when members report it. Msg #23656 Dated 22:30:52 10-27-91 23525 <--> 24619 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: VIDEOS I expect that prices on 9600's and V.32bis (14,400) modems will drop just as other prices have. The problem is that there are "pseudo" 9600's out there (really 2400's with MNP-5), there are 9600's that don't support the advanced standards like V.32/V.42bis, etc. That's why I haven't attempted to make any deals for MAGIC! members yet. Msg #23659 Dated 22:41:10 10-27-91 23524 <--> 23696 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT Yes, I think I prefer the plastic versions of skulls too. I guess they don't make me feel as compulsive about dusting them. And I'm pretty certain that my janitorial service would object to doing so (the guy is actually anti-magic, presumably on religious grounds, and has enough trouble dusting the magic books). Msg #23661 Dated 22:51:45 10-27-91 23527 <--> 23749 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: SHORTENED MSG Sort of reminds me about a terrible old joke about an American visiting an English pub. Apparently, he commented to the waitress, saying, "My, but you roll your R's..." and she said, "It's because I wear high heels." Msg #23662 Dated 22:53:15 10-27-91 23528 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLENGE If we didn't have this discussion after last year's DMS, we probably had one very much like it. Msg #23663 Dated 22:59:51 10-27-91 23537 <--> 23665 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE What you need is a random act generator. You plug in a bunch of tricks, tell it the length of the show, and push "go" and it writes the routine for you. You charge the guy $ 50 for it. Msg #23666 Dated 23:03:58 10-27-91 23624 <--> 23672 From: SCOTT ALCALAY To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY after working restaurants for a while i find you need a certian chutzpah to be able to deal with the drinking crowd. Msg #23667 Dated 23:06:10 10-27-91 23540 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: TRICK IDEA.... A METHOD! OK, well, if you like it (no bird, no clean, torn and restored) then it is yours, with all rights, priviledges and responsibilities appertaining thereunto. I make you this gift, of my own free will, because you are one heck of a nice guy. Also because it doesn't fit in my act. Msg #23668 Dated 23:17:41 10-27-91 -> 23669 From: MAX MAVEN To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION If your friend does not want to invest the effort in learning to perform magic, tell him to join as an Associate Member. You are doing no favors for the Magic Castle and magic in general -- or, for that matter, for your friend -- by coaching him on "easy" (i.e., effortless) material. Msg #23669 Dated 23:19:13 10-27-91 -> 23679 From: MAX MAVEN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Do you imagine that working with a reel falls into the category of sleightless magic? Guess again. Msg #23670 Dated 23:20:05 10-27-91 23636 <--> 23678 From: MAX MAVEN To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Regarding your phrase, "In all fairness to copy-cat magicians" -- there is no reason whatsoever to accord "fairness" in their direction. Yes, most magic is based upon a set of existing principles. Most music is based upon a standardized set of notes. However, musicians seem to have less of a problem understanding how to deal with theft... Msg #23671 Dated 23:17:24 10-27-91 23579 <--> 23700 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS If you like Back Flip, you might like Edward T. Hollins' "Flipped Out." It is one of the few packet tricks that I like. "Four cards of a kind are shown. They turn over one-by-one, showing RED backs. The cards are counted out, showing three BLUE backs. One card remains RED backed. This one red backed card is laid on the table. It is shown to have changed to a BLUE backed card while the other three have changed to RED backs. This card is inserted into the packet and the cards are immediately counted out to show four MIRRORED backs. The cards are now turned over and counted to show that the faces are now all alike." It is Back Flip with the "kicker" of mirrored backs and the Walker variation on the faces. Although not a packet trick, another very interesting idea, to me, is Wittus Witt's "gewitzte Zauber-Spiele; 21 Tricks in der Streichholzschachtel" (21 tricks in a matchbox). The premise - that you have a complete magic act in a matchbox - is very interesting. Unfortunately, Wittus set out to emmulate the old magic sets which were usually created for children, so the "tricks" aren't all that hot. I've been thinking of doing an "add on" set of intructions to use the same props for a much more sophisticated routine, but haven't had a chance yet. Still, the notion intrigues me. Msg #23672 Dated 23:31:06 10-27-91 23624 <--> 23698 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Stan, Performing magic is not my forte, however, I can state that my experience with music has always been that one must adjust one's material for his audience. This is much harder than it seems. A couple of years back, I got conned into doing a show for a group that was about to go see a play. They were loud and ruly, so I started with some go-gettin songs. Nothing! I did another. Nothing! Finally I said (to myself) "To heck with it, I'll do what I want to do for the rest of the set." So I gave them a little Jim Croce and a little Don McLean and a couple of songs I wrote, and they ATE IT UP! In answer to your question, there are a lot of factors that decide an audience to be entranced. They include (but are not limited to) How well the entertainer is known. How well the entertainer holds their attention. Whether the entertainer has their attenting in the first place. Whether they've come to specifically see what this entertainer is doing. How well a show is done. (strangly enough, this often scores almost lowest) How much the entertainer is being entertained. (if an entertainer is trying to get through his 20 minutes and get the hell out of there, and lets this fact show, it doesn't matter how good he is. The crowd won't like him.) How the rest of the crowd is feeling. What night of the week it is. And of course, the charisma of an Entertainer. As to going to the Castle. If you have a Thursday open this month that we could go, that would be WONDERFUL! If not, I'll adjust my schedule to yours. I would like my wife to join us, if that is not too much of a problem. I'm not a real fan of the Spaghetti Factory, but am willing to go wherever you decide. You know the town, and I don't. Thanks again for the generous offer! Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23675 Dated 23:40:29 10-27-91 23555 <--> 23728 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS There has been some discussion in the MAGIC! programming group of using the subjects of messages as the index for replies, etc. but it was totally rejected! We're sticking with using numbers and using the Reply function. Msg #23677 Dated 23:50:41 10-27-91 23644 <--> 23704 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CATALOG Pete, The post office is set up for a nuclear holocaust, but they forgot that you might have a fire. If you don't receive the tape soon, let me know, and I'll UPS you another copy. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23678 Dated 23:50:46 10-27-91 23645 <--> 23681 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Pete, I am a great Will Rogers fan. There was a man who thought that comedy goes stale after about 12 hours. That would keep ya hoppin'. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23679 Dated 23:50:50 10-27-91 23646 <--> 23683 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Pete, Resin seems like a good idea. I had heard of a force in which you bend the cards that are cut, so that when you throw them accross the table they break at the top (forced) card. I have NEVER gotten that to work. Maybe I'm just doing it wrong. I'll keep my eyes out for the Anneman book. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23680 Dated 23:50:56 10-27-91 23647 <--> 23690 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: LINGO Pete, HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHA! Wheeze! Cough cough cough Hee hee hee hee hee hee (yeah, actually, I laughed out loud at the computer, and my wife said "What?" Now I have to explain. Sigh.) Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23681 Dated 23:51:01 10-27-91 23670 <--> 23682 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: MAX MAVEN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Max, You are undoubtedly correct, but, I have not been in the business trying to compete like these people have. I am reluctant to cast aspersions on people until I've tried what they've done. You are not in my position, and are (at least by my rules, governing only me, and then sometimes lax) justifiable in any statements regarding laziness et al. Sorry I missed your performances in L.A. area. I hope to see you soon. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23682 Dated 23:46:26 10-27-91 23636 <--> 23702 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION One reason that pricing may be a problem is that in all three situations, magic/consulting/music, what you are selling is YOU. You wouldn't feel too bad if you were selling real estate and the prospect said, "I don't like the house, show me something else." But you feel that when they reject what you are offering when the product is you, for any reason - price included, that they are saying, "I don't want/like you." It can easily be taken very personally. But it doesn't have to be. Just like you pick and choose your friends, if someone doesn't hire you, well, there are a MILLION (or more) other opportunties out there. Another reason is that most magi (and consultants, and authors, and anyone who is creative) are LOUSY business managers. For one thing, they think they are charging more than they are worth (which, of course, is entirely possible), so they stumble over the fee, and feel that they should immediately make a gesture to show that they are willing to negotiate it! No - stand in front of a mirror and say, "I get $x per performance." Keep saying it until you can do it without lying to yourself. Then say it to the prospect. Msg #23683 Dated 23:57:06 10-27-91 23566 <--> 23684 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I don't know if you want to suggest classes to your friend, but, if you do, you might suggest that he call Jim Kahlert (213-472-3770). Jim teaches classes in basic close-up magic and has had what I believe is close to a 100% success rate in getting people through their Castle auditions. His beginning classes offer some very good material with no sleights. I offer the above suggestion although I must say that I have read Max's comment about Associate Membership and that in the main I agree - if your friend is not willing to put in the time and effort then he really should consider either another way of getting into the Castle (Associate) or another field of interest. Msg #23684 Dated 0:03:22 10-28-91 23669 <--> 23699 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: MAX MAVEN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION OK, Max, maybe my comment was sleightly off. It is possible that I got the reel confused with a Kodak ad - "You push the botton and we do the rest." Certainly, though, there is plenty of good entertaining magic that one can perform without sleights, no? Msg #23687 Dated 0:10:51 10-28-91 23589 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: DOUG SMITH (X) Re: DAVID COPPERFIELD I don't know when he was in Rockford, but from what you are describing, it sounds like it was some time ago. It is hard to predict what he might do in any individual venue, as the stage arrangements can make quite a difference. Not just the size of the stage and how it might accomodate the various illusions, but also the room backstage, etc. As to seating, we were in the very back of the room at Caesar's, but the seats there are tiered. We were offered seats further forward, but declined because being in the back allowed our 3-year old to move around and to even stand on the table (he spent most of the show standing on the table watching every single move). Msg #23689 Dated 0:32:15 10-28-91 23598 <--> 23693 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: KEEP THE WHEELS WAIT A MINUTE! I think I know that bar!!! Didn't they also have a drink called a "Paleface?" Some kinda mystery thing that came out of tubes above the ceiling of the bar? Seems to me that they had a standing bet that you couldn't drink three of 'em in one night and still walk a straight line. (Guess they don't do that no mo now that drunk driving laws is so strict). Msg #23690 Dated 0:36:47 10-28-91 23647 <--> 23913 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: LINGO PETE! There is NO WAY I am going to let you get away with saying stuff like that on here! You KNOW that we have certain standards to adhere to, and what you said goes WAY BEYOND those! Far as I'm concerned, you can take your ooierujm and shove it right through your joiyhgeuil - BUT you ain't gonna do it on here! Msg #23691 Dated 0:38:20 10-28-91 23600 <--> 23694 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: FILE LORRAYNE.TXT will be posted as soon as possible. I appologize for the delay - I was workin' on a big proposal right up until I split for Vegas and have to hit it for a couple of hours on Monday - then will have afternoon to get files posted, etc. Really sorry for the delay. Msg #23692 Dated 0:40:18 10-28-91 23602 <--> 23905 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: GENO MUNARI (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLENGE ER, Geno, I'm afraid that you forgot to turn "fill blank lines" off in your communications software and that ALL of your replies ended up in one message - #23602! You might want to turn off the "fill blank" option and try it again! Msg #23693 Dated 0:41:24 10-28-91 23689 <--> 23710 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: KEEP THE WHEELS Paleface was in a douche bag with hose hanging down... you got it... also they had a tray with cork lining filled with alcohol the they would set fire to... and a guy would sneak in behind you with a fire estinguisher and put it out... great nutcase place... Msg #23694 Dated 0:42:32 10-28-91 23691 <- From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: FILE Thassokay... Msg #23696 Dated 0:42:56 10-28-91 23659 <--> 23711 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT Paper mache is more realistic than plastic... altho the ivory one I have is pretty fine... Msg #23697 Dated 0:43:00 10-28-91 23663 <--> 23712 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE I have that... I kept 3x5 cards for YEARS with tricks, patter, running time, etc. Billy McComb has a similar set up. Msg #23698 Dated 0:43:04 10-28-91 23666 <--> 23709 From: PETE BIRO To: SCOTT ALCALAY (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Can you buy Chutzpah by the pound? Msg #23699 Dated 0:43:06 10-28-91 23668 <--> 23721 From: PETE BIRO To: MAX MAVEN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Max... are there regular members that do not perform? Like dealers or collectors, or just folks that have been around a long time and are "known" and never had to take the test? I know I didn't take a test, but I had performed there as a hired act before I joined. Msg #23700 Dated 0:43:12 10-28-91 23671 <--> 23713 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Mike Skinner once performed a close up act at the Castle using the slum magic set stuff, like Ball and Vase, etc. It ain't what you do but how you do it... Msg #23702 Dated 0:41:49 10-28-91 23682 <--> 23705 From: T A WATERS To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION My favorite story about pricing is when Eugene Burger quoted his price for a private party and the guy said "Wow!" Eugene responded, "That's just what your guests will say!" He got the gig. Msg #23704 Dated 0:43:25 10-28-91 23677 <- From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: CATALOG Don't worry or rush... stuff just comes in spurts... am sweating some scratch owed me big time... Msg #23705 Dated 0:43:29 10-28-91 23678 <--> 23715 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Did you ever dig Herb Shriner? Makes his kid, Will seem lousy! Msg #23709 Dated 0:54:38 10-28-91 23624 <--> 23723 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Sounds like you had a trial by fire, Stan! I don't know what others think, but it is not easy to handle drunks! Part one, of course, is to have a plan - and I'm sure that next time you will - for getting their attention. You now know one thing - except in the most skilled hands, mentalism is pretty impossible with an audience that has lost it's collective mind! Some time ago there was a long discussion on here about heckling and how do deal with it - maybe someone remembers where it was? Msg #23710 Dated 1:07:54 10-28-91 23693 <--> 23757 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: KEEP THE WHEELS YEP! That's the place! Now that you remind me, I remember the fire on the tray and the fire extinguisher! It was indeed a very nutcase place! Msg #23711 Dated 1:09:43 10-28-91 23696 <--> 23852 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT Yeah, and then there are the crystal skulls - but you gotta believe in those before they begin to look realistic. Msg #23712 Dated 1:10:27 10-28-91 23697 <--> 23718 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE OK, take the 3x5 cards with the tricks on 'em, shuffle 'em a couple of times, then deal out four poker hands. Write up the resulting routines and sell 'em to prospective Castle members. Msg #23713 Dated 1:12:28 10-28-91 23700 <--> 23722 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS I agree - it ain't always what you do, it is how you do it. The Wittus matchbox set has some reasonable props in it and doing an act from a matchbox is appealing - but too many of the tricks in the book that comes with it are silly mathematical puzzles and the like. I don't think much could be done with those. On the other hand, the set includes some cute sub-minature cards, some paper clips, rubber bands, etc. and you could do a full show with the props - or you could suppliment them with borrowed stuff from the audience. Msg #23715 Dated 1:18:21 10-28-91 23702 <--> 23729 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: T A WATERS (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION That is a great story, T A ! There are a couple of methods of dealing with price, but it sounds like Eugene did one of the best, which is to quote the price and then shut up and listen to what the prospect says. Too many folks can't handle a few moments of silence and will say, "But of course I could do it for less..." or something very much like that. Msg #23717 Dated 0:26:55 10-28-91 -> 23741 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: TIME CHANGE I have just reset the system clock for the time change. This could result in some messages that were posted moments ago showing responses written before the messages! Oh, well. Msg #23718 Dated 1:09:42 10-28-91 -> 23731 From: JERRY BURTON To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Are you still into robots ? I'm quite active in designing and build- ing them - tell me more. . Burton the Bizarre. Msg #23719 Dated 1:09:46 10-28-91 -> 23754 From: JERRY BURTON To: TABBY CRABB (X) Re: NUEVO DECARLO Let me know when you are settled in and ready for the crystals. I didn't send them yet, as I didn't want to interfere with all the other stuff you are having to contend with. Besides they are quite rare & I don't want to have them get lost in the turmoil of a move as massive as you are undertaking. Hope everything is coming together OK - talk to you soon, . Burton the Bizarre Msg #23720 Dated 1:09:52 10-28-91 From: JERRY BURTON To: BRUCE SANDERCOCK (X) Re: CASTLE No, havn't received it yet - it's late as usual ! Who's playing this week anyone know ?? Msg #23721 Dated 1:09:55 10-28-91 -> 23727 From: JERRY BURTON To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION The night I did my audition I was very nervous. Everyone was upstairs killing time and trying out their stuff on each other. Some of the guys were really good, but one guy in particuliar was really pretty bad (at least what he was showing me was not very good - this actuall y made me less nervous, since I figured if this guy was going for it I should not have any problem). There was another guy who was there with a friend of his, who was already a member, and he was acting like this was going to be a piece of cake. He referred to a brand new effect he was going to show and really knock their socks off. . One by one we were called to the 'dungeon' to face 'our moment of truth' and after my second trick, they said thanks - wait upstairs. Jeez I thought I had blown it, I had another ten minutes of stuff to do. After everyone had had their turn. Len Reid came up the back stai rway and called out 2 names (one was the guy who was very sure he would kill them - after his turn when he came back up he was elated that his 'new killer effect' had worked perfectly), I was sure that they were the only ones that had made it, the other seven of us were out. . Then a guy came up the museum stairway and invited the rest of us down, I figured they were going to tell us we were out and what we would have to do in the future - turns out we were all in, including the guy I thought was terrible. The 2 guys taht were asked down the other way didn't make it. I was just glad it was over - just goes to show that you can never tell how its going to go, until it goes ! Msg #23722 Dated 1:10:14 10-28-91 23671 <--> 23738 From: JERRY BURTON To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS I do 3 card monte from a card himber wallet with one of my $ 1000 bills showing. I use the skinner handling and then put the cards back in the wallet and flip it over as I start to put it back in my pocket with one hand while reaching for the 'money' with the other . I use the pretense of asking to see the cards again before I let the 'hustler' have the money. I then open the wallet and remove the cards which are face down (and now switched for ungaffed cards due to the himber) and turn them face up one at a time spread. It completely takes the heat off the idea of a gaffed set of cards and also the wallet makes it look like you only carry three cards for the swindle. It doesn't appear to be a packet trick at all. Msg #23723 Dated 1:10:24 10-28-91 23672 <--> 23735 From: JERRY BURTON To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY The best way to work a Halloween party is to go dressed as a magician and perform for small groups and mingle around. Party situations dont lend themselves well to a 'staged' performance. I did a party Sat night and did about 45 minutes in the living room away from the bar and kitchen area, those that wanted to watch did and those that didnt were not in the way. I ended up doing tarot readings for about an hour and half afterwards. Of course, this was a Ski Club party and there weren't many heavy drinkers there - seems they are a pretty healthy bunch. Drunks can be a real problem - live and learn ! Msg #23724 Dated 1:10:31 10-28-91 23653 <--> 23745 From: JERRY BURTON To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: COPPERFIELD Hell of a game tho ! I don't follow baseball except in the world seri es, had never seen a fake play. Guy should have made it to third. Msg #23727 Dated 7:17:24 10-28-91 23721 <--> 23732 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Your audition for the Castle sounds pretty much like mine, Jerry. And I remember that around the table, while waiting, it was pretty much the guys who were holdin' quiet who made it. Most of us spent the waiting time just being friendly and talking encouragement to each other. I had a funny bit happen with Len Reid. I'd been watching him perform downstairs for a long time - he was one of my favorites (and remains so) because much like the general discussion here, his old act was simple stuff done very, very well. I always found his delivery and audience work to be brilliant. Anyway, I'd never spoken to him (I felt I was too much of a pup) but he recognized me. He came over just before the auditions and said, "Did you bring a student?" I gulped and said, "No, I'm here to audition." "But you are a member," he said. "No," I said, "I'm really not. What are you doing here?" "I'm a judge," he said! My brain went GULP - one of my personal heros is a JUDGE! Anxiety just doubled! I sat down with visions of my props spilling across the table. But the judges that night immediately gave a feeling of being supportive and I knew my routine, so I began to relax as I went into it. And, like you, after a few things they said, "Thank you very much, please wait upstairs." Only I'd already been warned about that, so I knew it was GOOD NEWS! Msg #23728 Dated 7:41:59 10-28-91 23675 <--> 23759 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS David, I can certainly see why you would stick with numbers. I was just unaware of the ER command. As you can see, I've been using that since your first suggestion. p.s. How was your LV trip? Hope it went well. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23729 Dated 7:42:05 10-28-91 23682 <--> 23730 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION David, Good advice! The hardest lesson I've ever learned in pricing myself is that it is just as easy (and sometimes more so) to lose a job from being priced too low! People have been brought up to expect to get what they pay for. They'll assume a price that is too low, means a performance that is sub-standard. Life is weird. You hit the nail on the head with your comment about lousy business managing. I HATE it! I would have starved to death long ago, if not for a divergence of interests that allowed me to take advantage of this talent or that. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23730 Dated 7:42:12 10-28-91 23705 <--> 23739 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Pete, No I've never seen anything by Herb Shriner, although everytime I've seen Will interviewed he's asked about his dad. Are there clips or movies around that I could get that would show him? What exactly did he do? Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23731 Dated 7:42:17 10-28-91 23718 <--> 23737 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Jerry, What kind of robots do you build? Display? I haven't worked on a robot (except to repair one that has been sold) for over a year. I've always enjoyed the learning experience that comes from trying something new, so I've tried all kinds of different applications. Learned a lot about linkages, hydralics, pneumatics and electronics from the work. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23732 Dated 7:42:23 10-28-91 23721 <--> 23742 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Jerry, Did you ever see the "Killer" effect or its originator again? Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23735 Dated 8:47:35 10-28-91 23709 <--> 23736 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY You don't want to get into a heckling battle with enebriated folks. Actually, in a home/party situation... if you knock yourself out with the folks that hired you and a few nearby you will have done enough... cut your losses and keep moving. Msg #23736 Dated 8:47:40 10-28-91 23709 <--> 23744 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Also... I recall stories about Malini doing close up for room with 1,000 people in it... someone asked how do you do that? He said, "You just make sure the person that hired you is entertianed and work for their close friends and people in site of them..." Msg #23737 Dated 8:47:46 10-28-91 23712 <--> 23767 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE NO the material is all original and no one can afford my prices. Msg #23738 Dated 8:47:49 10-28-91 23713 <--> 23743 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Don't forget the famed Joe Berg bit... he came on wearing a top coat and hat... said, "My luggage was lost and I don't have my props... I'll pass this hat around and if you would put some ordinary objects in it, I'll try to do some tricks with them." Needless to say a friend dropped in some gaffed stuff! Great bit. Msg #23739 Dated 8:47:55 10-28-91 23715 <--> 23747 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION The man I worked for in the Advertising art business used to say "Ask high... hey, if they go for it you just got lunch money for a year... if not you can come down by offering them a different artist or different materials, etc." I should talk... I am terrible at figuring prices. Because... the art buyers I deal with in N.Y. and Detroit all have fixed prices for, say, full page photo... $3,000.00, half page $2,000.00 etc... and when I get a call from a small time outfit I am at a loss... generally say, "what's your budget?" Most of the time it is a bit more than I would have asked. When it is less... you decide do I want 50 bucks or turn it down and get ZERO bucks (this is ususally for a file picture I already have). I have one client that is cheap (major auto maker, if you can believe -- OK, Ford...) that pays about half of any one else... but half is better than nothing... (still good money). Msg #23741 Dated 8:48:18 10-28-91 23717 <--> 23774 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: TIME CHANGE Hey, it's magic... right... menalism, time warp alla same... Msg #23742 Dated 8:48:21 10-28-91 23721 <--> 23746 From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Nice story... yeah one never knows... but seven at one time? Do they do this often? Or once a month??? Nice to hear from ya. Msg #23743 Dated 8:48:25 10-28-91 23722 <--> 23772 From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Good idea using the wallet... with money init... I hate those little plastic card holders... make no sense, but with the scratch and the cards, especially for three card monte is gooooooooooooooood. Msg #23744 Dated 8:48:29 10-28-91 23723 <--> 23762 From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY And there probably wasn't any snow yet either... good job... Msg #23745 Dated 8:48:32 10-28-91 23724 <--> 23840 From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: COPPERFIELD I could kill that guy for falling for a fake play that wasn't even close to the ball... argh... I think what the fake play actually did was to catch his attention JUST TO GET HIM TO LOSE SITE OF THE BALL... that was IN MY OPINION the winning play of the game! I was rooting for Atlanta for a couple of reasons. I have a good friend who's uncle OWNS the Falcons and a deceased friend was big in Atlanta sports (and magic)... but I almost defected when Jane Fonda was in the scene... but then the Hatchet stuff got me back... I feel the Indians should be PROUD that someone has an indian for a logo and theme... in my eyes it does not demean them it HONORS THEM... that is MY FEELING... Msg #23746 Dated 8:48:44 10-28-91 23727 <--> 23763 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I have a routine with a prop that I hold in a position where it is resting partway ON THE TABLE... I say, "You know why I put the end of this on the table?" They say "NO".... I say, "It keeps it from doing this (I then lift it up and my hand begins to shake like it is very nervous!)" Msg #23747 Dated 8:48:51 10-28-91 23730 <--> 23760 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Herb Shriner was a tremendous monologist and Harmonic Player from Indiana... Hoosier was somewhere in his intro's... much a follower of Will Rogers. He only did guest spots... might pop up on my new favorite TV Channel "Comedy Central"... Sounds like Penn (of Penn and Teller) is the voice over on all the Comedy Central promo videos... Mystery Science Theater 3000 is a killer show. It stars Joel Hodgson... a comedic mind that, according to Mike Caveney, also does great comedy magic act. Can't really describe the show, but Joel has two funny robotic pals they do funny stuff, then go into theater (you only see the back of their heads sillouetted in the dark, sitting in front row of theater) and they watch (while you do to) these really TERRIBLE old Horror and PSI FI movies and make all kinds of funny comments about 'em... Msg #23749 Dated 10:35:01 10-28-91 -> 23750 From: BILL WELLS To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: SHORTENED MSG Yes...I knew that. I know about Demming and the others who have taken up his flag...TQM is the hot management item for the 90's. It seems we have a new one for each decade. Msg #23750 Dated 10:35:11 10-28-91 -> 23751 From: BILL WELLS To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: SHORTENED MSG For a number of years, I have been much more interested in the theory , the current happenings, and the history of magic than in reading or learning new "tricks". I find it quite interesting that I still learn new twists and bits on effects that I have performed thousands of times...continuing to polish them brings much more satisfaction than learning something new "for the boys". Msg #23751 Dated 12:58:18 10-28-91 23750 <--> 23784 From: PETE BIRO To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: SHORTENED MSG How about something new "for the Goils?" Msg #23752 Dated 14:22:10 10-28-91 -> 23785 From: MARVIN STERN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (X) Re: PROBLEMS Thanks for fixing me up. Guess I better change that. That guy up north will make something nasty of it. Thanks for getting me squared away. Msg #23754 Dated 15:44:03 10-28-91 23534 <--> 23758 From: TABBY CRABB To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: NUEVO DECARLO OK, explain later. Msg #23756 Dated 15:44:10 10-28-91 23581 <--> 23800 From: TABBY CRABB To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X) Re: FOR THE BIRDS I want t ship the birds to you, but can't find your phone number. If you get this tonite leave number again or call here and leave it with Glo or on machine 615-449-7385 as I am heading back up north in the morning early and would want to ship birds to you on Thursday. We need to talk to get sked right. Call airplines and find out flight leaving Washington Natl Airport between noon and 3pm or thereabouts and lemme know. You need to be there to meet them. Also get regs for ship birds!!! Gimme your number... Msg #23757 Dated 15:44:17 10-28-91 23598 <--> 23791 From: TABBY CRABB To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: KEEP THE WHEELS I wanna shoot some more cars. Do you have a need for a shooter to get some NASCAR stuff or???? the like for PBSP Inc.?? Msg #23758 Dated 15:44:21 10-28-91 23719 <--> 23801 From: TABBY CRABB To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: NUEVO DECARLO You got that part right. It is ok now to send them to R.T. Crabb Conjurors' Woodworks 760 Flatwoods Road Lebanon, TN put the phone # on there so they can gimme a call since they don't know me yet (but they will, har!!) 615-449-7385 Msg #23759 Dated 16:38:24 10-28-91 23728 <--> 23804 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Vegas trip was very good! I'm still recovering! Will post more info tonight. Thanks for asking. Msg #23760 Dated 16:40:13 10-28-91 23729 <--> 23761 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Most people who have to sell themselves hate it - that's why there are managers, agents, etc. I try to never sell my talents - just rent them out. Msg #23761 Dated 16:41:59 10-28-91 23739 <--> 23783 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Ah, the fine art of negotiation! I'm gonna try to write more on it later. Right now I've got to rush off to take care of some things. Msg #23762 Dated 17:22:03 10-28-91 23672 <--> 23770 From: STAN LAKE To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY That's good advice Kevin. There are a lot of similarities in any kind of entertainment for a crowd and you made some good points. A lot more experience will also go a long way in handling that kind of situation in the future. The next Thursday evening I could go and stay late would be December the 12th. I can go most any other Thursday also but I can't stay much past 9:30 or 10:00 since I have to be up so early. Closer to the time you choose to go I'll come up with a list of places to dine in the area. I really don't know too much about that area but there is no lack of places to go. I think Max Maven lives in the area and I'll ask him if he has any suggestions. Msg #23763 Dated 17:30:41 10-28-91 23668 <--> 23764 From: STAN LAKE To: MAX MAVEN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION He already IS an associate member. He does want to learn and is willing to invest the effort it's just that the amount of effort he puts into learning sleights and routines gives him miniscule returns. He seems to try hard but has a lot of difficulty in coordinating his efforts. I can't really call him a "friend" yet as I only sat next to him in a couple of performances on different occasions and I tried to teach him a few things. He wants me to help him out so I agreed to do what I could for him. Msg #23764 Dated 17:38:53 10-28-91 23683 <--> 23766 From: STAN LAKE To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION As I said to Max, he already is an associate member and I will recommend Jim Kahlerts classes to him. Msg #23765 Dated 17:55:05 10-28-91 -> 23779 From: STAN LAKE To: ALL Re: RESTAURANTS Does anyone have any suggestions for dining out near the Castle? Any ideas for reasonably priced good food would be appreciated. Thanks! Msg #23766 Dated 17:58:21 10-28-91 23746 <--> 23794 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Pete! That is sheer brilliance! (Putting the end of the prop on the table). One also assumes that you have a gaffical reason for doing so? Msg #23767 Dated 18:02:44 10-28-91 23737 <--> 23795 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Oh, OK, well, then, take the 3x5 cards, shuffle them, deal out 200 poker hands and write 200 books! Msg #23770 Dated 18:07:30 10-28-91 23735 <--> 23771 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Agreed - you don't want to get into a heckling battle - you will _always_ loose. I think that Max has a very good article in the files area about this sort of thing. Msg #23771 Dated 18:08:34 10-28-91 23736 <--> 23798 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Most people who have parties for 1,000 people would like those in the room to think that they are all their closest friends. With 1,000 people in the room you can bring on the lions, tigers and elephants. Msg #23772 Dated 18:10:16 10-28-91 23738 <--> 23822 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Yep - getting the gaffed stuff into the hat is a great idea! Also, you can always switch in some gaffed stuff - handled right, no-one knows what each other put into the hat. Msg #23774 Dated 18:12:10 10-28-91 23741 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: TIME CHANGE Agreed - mentalism, time warp, alla same. Msg #23776 Dated 18:55:30 10-28-91 -> 24375 From: BURT CARPENTER To: SCOTT CRAM (X) Re: SUPPLY REQUEST Try Neil Lester at Cards By Martin (805)948-1315. He makes all kinds of cards and keeps lots of odd stuff in stock. He is located in Lancaster, CA Msg #23777 Dated 19:04:52 10-28-91 -> 23787 From: STEVE BRYANT To: ALL Re: HALLOWEEN The family Halloween decorations are up, I listened once again to Docc Hilford's WEERD tape on the way home in the car this evening, and I'm secretly hitting the little candy bars in the cupboard laid away for Thursday night visitors, but none of these indulgences can make up for the huge social hole left this year because there will be no Invocational in Chicago. For those of you who never attended, you might wish to download the review I did of last year's affair, called MSG1 (the strange title came about because this was the first file I attempted to upload, and I hadn't expected that to end up as its title). * Along the same lines, the current issue of STRANGE MAGAZINE (Number 8, Fall 1991), available at larger newsstands, features numerous articles by and about Tony "Doc" Shiels. Worth a look. * Hope you all caught the Pendragons last night. Harry Anderson is scheduled for Carson on Wednesday night, and I hope he will do something seasonal (magical) as well. Best of the season to all. -- Steve Bryant Msg #23779 Dated 19:33:10 10-28-91 23765 <--> 23781 From: MAX MAVEN To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: RESTAURANTS Hamburger Hamlet, across from the Chinese Theater, is the closest to the Castle. Other venues in reasonable proximity are Musso & Frank a few blocks east on Hollywood Blvd., Hampton's a few blocks south on Highland Ave., and the Acapulco (Mexican food) half a block east of the intersection of Sunset and La Brea. Msg #23780 Dated 20:04:23 10-28-91 -> 23782 From: RYAN WILSON To: ALL Re: CLOSE-UP-MAGIC This Is Ryan Here I am looking for either sugestions for tricks or trick that you may have for sale that I may use for Close-UP-MAGIC WHICH I AM VERY INTESTED IN. If anyone can help me please leave me a personal message addressed to Ryan Wilson or call my house at (416)-857-1803 this is in Canada so i don't get on here often thanks really apriciated Your Fellow Magician RYAN WILSON (CAN) Msg #23781 Dated 20:24:41 10-28-91 23779 <--> 23806 From: STAN LAKE To: MAX MAVEN (X) Re: RESTAURANTS Thanks Max, that sounds like a good selection to choose from. I have heard a lot of good things about Hamburger Hamlet. Supposed to be some of the best burgers around, and I do enjoy a good burger! Msg #23782 Dated 20:29:18 10-28-91 23780 <--> 23807 From: STAN LAKE To: RYAN WILSON Re: CLOSE-UP-MAGIC Hi Ryan, glad to have you aboard. I always recommend getting a few good books rather than a few single tricks. Your fellow Canadian Gary Ouellet has a very good book titled "Close-up Illusions". There is also a companion video tape you can purchase separately to see just how all of the sleights and moves are supposed to look. There are literally thousands of books dealing with close-up magic available so even a couple of them could keep you busy for quite a while. I would also strongly suggest some books on presentation and showmanship right away. If you are newly learning magic you will quickly find that the first couple (or many) times you perform a trick you will not have any where near the impact you thought you would. Good presentation can't be stressed enough. "Showmanship for Magicians" and "Magic and Showmanship" are a couple of good ones. Good luck! Msg #23783 Dated 22:11:47 10-28-91 23747 <--> 23792 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Pete, My cable company doesn't carry the comedy channel! ARgh. (tm Biro) My Father-in-law has a satelite dish, so sometimes when we aren't playing cards or pool or any of our other many distractions, I'll sit and watch it. If my cable company had that channel, I would get it for the Ernie Kovacs shows alone. About 15 or 20 years ago, we had a fellow here in SoCal who's name escapes me. Larry somethin. He did much the same thing as you describe with old, bad horror and SF (not San Francisco) films. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23784 Dated 22:15:28 10-28-91 23750 <--> 24625 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: BILL WELLS (X) Re: SHORTENED MSG Sounds like we are on the same wavelength, Bill. I actually do NOTHING "for the boys." Well, OK, Nathan and I exchange tricks now and then, but that's about it. Msg #23785 Dated 22:16:43 10-28-91 23752 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: MARVIN STERN (X) Re: PROBLEMS No problem, Marvin. I'm glad you called. As to the "currently doing maintenance, do you want to wait" bit - we seem to have some "glitch" that is causing that. Can't get it to happen under test conditions and the system isn't telling us why it is happening. I noticed today that if you type Y for "Yes, I want to wait" then you get immediate access to MAGIC! It doesn't seem to harm anything to type Y, so if it happens, just try that. Of course, that message is NOT to be confused with the one that sometimes comes up about "MESSAGES BEING COMPRESSED." That one is REAL and it means that I'm working on the message base and that things will be back to normal in about 1/2 hour. Msg #23787 Dated 22:25:28 10-28-91 23777 <--> 23789 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: STEVE BRYANT (X) Re: HALLOWEEN Thanks for your message, Steve. Halloween is one of my favorite holidays for a lot of reasons - one of the oldest in the human calendar, one of the most "magical," and fun! Msg #23788 Dated 22:18:23 10-28-91 From: ALVIN MUELLER To: ALL Re: HAVE DOVES 4 SALE have doves 4 SALE call AL MUELLER 714 774-6883 these doves are new born & 2 months breeded for magicians only very very tame nature birds a must to see member of ring 96 IBM & O.C.M.C. Msg #23789 Dated 22:59:14 10-28-91 23787 <--> 23799 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: HALLOWEEN I plan to hide, turn the lights out and be a Grinch... no candy from this dude... Msg #23791 Dated 23:00:04 10-28-91 23757 <--> 23851 From: PETE BIRO To: TABBY CRABB (X) Re: KEEP THE WHEELS Will definitely keep in mind... no biz right now on horizon, but if the Magazine hits... whoooo nose....? Msg #23792 Dated 23:00:08 10-28-91 23760 <--> 23793 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I got to quit giving it away... almost finished writing the book this evening... photo shoot plan is next! Msg #23793 Dated 23:00:11 10-28-91 23761 <--> 23827 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I think I will play the audio tape Ammar sells... Msg #23794 Dated 23:00:14 10-28-91 23766 <--> 23829 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION No gaff... it just makes good ENTERTAINMENT... is the Edw. Victor Bat trick (paddle to you). Msg #23795 Dated 23:00:18 10-28-91 23767 <--> 23830 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE That is the plan. I have One book nearly done, 4 more in the start stages. One will be on Steve Shepherd... a great magician in the 1940s... the first maje I had ever seen. Lots of stuff in the file on him. Two books will be on gaming and the third (which I will do next will be "son of greater magic"... my long worked on tome). Msg #23798 Dated 23:00:32 10-28-91 23771 <--> 23815 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY An in a few minutes you will be down to 300 of your closest friends. Msg #23799 Dated 23:00:35 10-28-91 23777 <--> 23825 From: PETE BIRO To: STEVE BRYANT (X) Re: HALLOWEEN Thanks for tip... I forgot the Pendragons. Tomorrow, Tuesday night, Nic Night lectures in San Fran... Msg #23800 Dated 23:00:39 10-28-91 23756 <--> 23821 From: PETE BIRO To: TABBY CRABB (X) Re: FOR THE BIRDS Good to hear from ya even if only a smattering... at least the wheels are turnin... Spent most of day moving file cabinet and re-arranging things in the Library... got the lecture notes and much of the instruction sheets, etc. into file cabinet. Still not enuf room! Will put the gamblin' stuff in the right hand corner, moved in a wide cabinet (it was hidden in garage) with about a dozen small drawers into the corner and slid the two large glass covered bookcases to the left to fit. Then the Dentist's Cabinet that wsa in the left corner is now in the bedroom! And in that spot is the large 4-drawer file cabinet. Re arranged all the books so the gambling stuff now has three shelves. Msg #23801 Dated 23:00:50 10-28-91 23758 <--> 23863 From: PETE BIRO To: TABBY CRABB (X) Re: NUEVO DECARLO I have ALMOST finished the writin of the ring book. Now on the search for pix... the Coathanger Wilson stuff is KILLER. I think the key show will show him playing FARO... why not? Right period? . I think I will set up the studio in the garage and have a friend snapper to the detail stuff on me, or me shoot a model holding the rings???? etc... could be funny. Would be good if I had Mario Andretti and A.J. Foyt doing some of the stuff!!!! . Maybe should bring the stuff to Mexico and shoot some stuff in front of some old dumpy locations... HAY THATT'L BE COOOOOOOOOOL... SINCE I IS DRIVING... Msg #23804 Dated 23:01:16 10-28-91 23759 <--> 23834 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Wood like your FULL REVIEW of the Copperfield show. And what other shows did you see? You were there long enough to see from 4 to 6 shows, dude... Msg #23806 Dated 23:01:31 10-28-91 23779 <--> 23819 From: PETE BIRO To: MAX MAVEN (X) Re: RESTAURANTS Also the Copper Penny is nearby... if you are looking for CHEEP. Hamburger Hamlet is low cost and very good too. You could bring a brown bag? Msg #23807 Dated 23:01:35 10-28-91 23780 <- From: PETE BIRO To: RYAN WILSON Re: CLOSE-UP-MAGIC I personally don't have any books for sale... I keep buying them... but there are some lists in the files area here online from H&R books that you can download, or if you have specific needs name the books and you will have a better chance. If you are looking for basic stuff, go for the classics. Close Up Magic by Jean Hugard, Don Alan has two books out and Bert Allerton another. All the books on the subject you would want can be gotten reasonably from Magic Inc., in Chicago. You could call or write for their book catalog. 5082 N. Lincoln, Chicago, IL 60625 (312) EDI-BULL is the phone number. Mickey Hades, a Canadian also has book catalog, but I don't know his address. Check the magazines. Joe Stevens Magic Emporium in Wichita, KS (ads in all the magic magazines) has a catalog with some strong close up stuff too. Any of the Ken Brooke effects are very strong magic. I am sure others will make suggestions. My main one is to stay away from the new run of "difficult stuff" books for awhile. Bobo's Modern Coin Magic (Magic Inc.) has more stuff than you will need in a lifetime if you want to do coins. And to start I recommend it over the new stuff by Roth and others... which is good stuff if you are more advanced. Good luck and have fun! Msg #23815 Dated 23:07:23 10-28-91 23698 <--> 23833 From: SCOTT ALCALAY To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY two cents plain is six cents now! Msg #23819 Dated 23:09:36 10-28-91 23765 <--> 23837 From: SCOTT ALCALAY To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: RESTAURANTS great thai food at hollywood and wiltern called too-rung. open till 4 am. spent many a night after closing the castle enjoying the hospitality of this restaurant....also.....canters or larry parkers in bev hills....... Msg #23822 Dated 23:26:53 10-28-91 23623 <--> 23835 From: DAVID VANVRANKEN To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Thanks Stan, You're right, I'm not sure if yours is the standard "Back Flips". The one I got from Tannen's (sorry Pete, I was young,I didn't know any better!) uses six cards, four face up cards(odd backs), a face down blue back, and a double backer (red-blue, blue side up). Done this way, the basic idea is the same, using standard counts to show one face up at a time. The spectator is asked if they remember the color of the backs (they've seen only blue). A repeat count shows four red backs. Asked again what color they saw, last count shows a third color change. It looks as if your handling also works. I'll try it and see which I like best. I just bought a wallet photo refill that has 5 pouches and fits in a mens "Daytimer" secretary. Also fits a Kaps wallet perfectly! I don't perform from the wallet this way, but is an easy to keep the packets organized. I just pull out the ones I want to use, and either load them into my own deck (after exam and shuffle, if desired) or wait for a matching one to appear and borrow the deck. (best if opportunity presents itself) Thanks again for sharing your handling! Msg #23824 Dated 23:42:57 10-28-91 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: ALL Re: NEW FILES There are some new files in the MAGIC! files area: LORAYNE.TXT - Jim Sisti's response to Harry Lorayne's comments regarding the Magic Menu. LORAYNE.ZIP - A compressed (zipped) version of the above for those familiar with zip. LANCE.GIF - David VanVranken saves the day! This is a GIF version (in black and white) of the much discussed picture of the gang at Lance Burton's show on October 9th. Seated from left to right are Burt Carpenter, David VanVranken, Tabby Crabb, Jerry Burton, David Lichtman, and Pete Biro. These files can be downloaded from the MAGIC! files area. Msg #23825 Dated 23:48:01 10-28-91 23789 <--> 23868 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: HALLOWEEN Have you considered putting pennies in the wok and letting the kids help themselves? Msg #23826 Dated 23:49:24 10-28-91 23512 <--> 23869 From: DANTE LARSEN To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X) Re: ADDRESS I've been wanting to know that fellas name (Stevie Starr) for a while. Saw him on the tube a while back and was blown away. The regurgitated lightbulbs was pure entertainment. Msg #23827 Dated 23:50:02 10-28-91 23792 <--> 23828 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Yep! Collect the rent! Put alla stuff in books, charge thirty bucks extra for autographs. Msg #23828 Dated 23:50:58 10-28-91 23793 <--> 23838 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I need to buy a copy of the Ammar tape - I've heard that it is good. It is on my list of things to do. Msg #23829 Dated 23:51:53 10-28-91 23794 <--> 23849 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION No gaff? PHOEY! It is a waste of a perfectly good move/line if you ain't got a gaff you gotta get or lap. Msg #23830 Dated 23:52:41 10-28-91 23795 <--> 23853 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE GO FOR THE BOOKS, Pete! You is under-represented on the bookshelves of the World's magic and your checking account could stand the transfusion! Msg #23833 Dated 23:56:42 10-28-91 23798 <--> 23846 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Yep! Esactly what I had in mind! There is a funny, but very long, story about a birthday party for Nero, with lions, tigers, elephants, but it is too long to do here - remind me and I'll do it live sometime. Msg #23834 Dated 0:00:02 10-29-91 23804 <--> 23844 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Yeah, and I'm still recovering! Actually, saw two shows - Copperfield and Melinda. Other time was spent in Gambler's General Store, Cassey's (where I got a VERY cold reception by the lady who runs the cash register) and searchin' for a prop that I never found - I'm looking for one of those little roulette wheels that they used to use as keychains - enclosed on top by a plastic shield so that the little ball doesn't get lost, and operated by pressing a lever on the side. Soon as I recover from the trip and the work I've been doing thru today, I'll tell all. Msg #23835 Dated 0:02:52 10-29-91 23713 <--> 23839 From: T A WATERS To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS A somewhat better routine along the Victor matchbox routine lines was that of Paul Swinford; it appeared in Busby's ARCANE #2. All the props for the routine went into a 35mm film can. Msg #23837 Dated 0:04:50 10-29-91 23806 <--> 23855 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: RESTAURANTS I think Copper Penny has been converted into a parking lot. Msg #23838 Dated 0:06:44 10-29-91 23828 <--> 23841 From: T A WATERS To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION The full text of the tape is in Ammar's THE MAGIC OF MICHAEL AMMAR (I presume you are talking about Negotiating Higher Performance Fees). Msg #23839 Dated 0:08:06 10-29-91 23835 <--> 23843 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: T A WATERS (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Thank you for the info on the Swinford item, T A. I'll have to look into it. I've got a ton of empty 35-mm film cans around. Prior to your suggestion, I was thinking of glueing them together and making a floor lamp. Msg #23840 Dated 0:09:24 10-29-91 23745 <--> 23854 From: T A WATERS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: COPPERFIELD Yeah -- but Pete -- you don't get to choose what demeans them; they do. Msg #23841 Dated 0:10:00 10-29-91 23838 <--> 23845 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: T A WATERS (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION THANKS AGAIN, T A! I didn't realize that the text was in the book. Will check it out! Msg #23842 Dated 0:13:52 10-29-91 23615 <- From: DAVID VANVRANKEN To: STEVE BRYANT (X) Re: PENDRAGONS Thanks for the tip, Steve. I "caught" them about 10:20 last night. Good presentation of their new penetration followed by their classic "Metamorphosis" Great Stuff! David (the other one) Msg #23843 Dated 0:13:57 10-29-91 23722 <--> 23848 From: DAVID VANVRANKEN To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Great Himber idea! If anyone's interested, Harry Monti of St. Louis makes very nice wallets of all types. I have had one of his 3X4 card size Himbers for about two years now and have been very happy with it. The only thing is, there aren't many standard Himber routines that lend themselves well to the smaller wallet. I use mine to hold packets with some face to face business cards in the center pouch (looks the same from both sides that way). Other than progressing through several packets with an occasional vanish or reappearance of the cards, I haven't used it much in the body of a routine. I recently saw Mike Ammar do Skinner's Monte in similar fashion (not quite Himber though). Every time they had the urge to check out the cards, he'd anticipated them and there was nothing to be found. Great example of audience control. David (the other one) Msg #23844 Dated 0:20:59 10-29-91 23804 <--> 23875 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Here are a few things from my trip to Vegas... 1) Magicians abound - in my peregrinations I found Leslie Manning, Allen Ackerman, and Daniel Cros. 2) The Gambler's General Store has a number of paperback copies of T A Water's Encyclopedia of Magic and Magicians. 3) Comdex had just finished. I went down to the hotel lobby to have a smoke and to type up my initial Copperfield report on my trusty Model 100. A young lady asked me if I was with Comdex. I said "No" and we got to chatting. I asked her if she was with Comdex and she said, "No, I'm a Las Vegas hooker." She told me that the Comdex folks were "cheap bastards." 4) Was watching the waitress in the coffee shop refill the sugar packet holder on the table when I realized she was BOTTOM DEALING the sugar packs! I said, "Not a bad bottom deal." She said, "Thanks, I like to keep in practice." Msg #23845 Dated 0:57:45 10-29-91 23760 <--> 23893 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION David, I guess that it takes a special mind set to be an agent or manager. I would never be any good at it. I can see, however, how it would be easier to sell someone you believed in than to sell (or rent) yourself, no matter how much you believed in yourself. No personal rejection. No worries over what exactly the act is worth. Oh well. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23846 Dated 0:57:51 10-29-91 23762 <--> 23874 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Stan, I guess it really doesn't need to be a Thursday. I would kind of enjoy getting to know you without the constraints of an early evening. What is it you do that you have to get up so early? Hamburger Hamlet is fine with me, if that's what you'd like. (I'm rambling, I am suffering from the worst case of insomnia I've ever had. Oh well, I won't lose any sleep over it. ) Thanks. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23847 Dated 1:04:24 10-29-91 -> 23881 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: ALL Re: TRICK OR TREAT I'm having a lot of fun with a trick that I think I've come up with. (The trouble with simple tricks is that it seems impossible that someone wasn't doing it years and years ago.) I take a coin no larger than a quarter, and do a french drop. I instruct the observer to hold his hand over my closed (empty) hand then place my other hand with the quarter finger-palmed between my index and ring fingers over his hand. I place the quarter on the back of his hand, and show him my empty hand being careful to block his view of the coin lying out in the open on the back of his hand. I've yet to meet the person with a sensitive enough back-hand to feel anything there. I put my hand back on top of his, and explain that I will make the coin pass through my closed fingers, through his hand, and into my other hand. I turn all three of our hands over, and open my hand to reveal the coin. I then open the closed fist to show that the coin is indeed gone. If there is a crowd of people, one must be sure to play it well, as obviously everyone else who is paying the slightest modicum of attention knows how the trick is done. As always, comments or suggestions are welcomed. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23848 Dated 1:06:11 10-29-91 23843 <--> 23876 From: JERRY BURTON To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS I have to agree the Len was very instrumental in taking the 'edge' off, he came upstairs before the audition and welcomed everyone and helped to take off some of the tension. I also agree he's one of my favorites, don't get to see him perform as often as I would like. Msg #23849 Dated 1:06:16 10-29-91 23732 <--> 23850 From: JERRY BURTON To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Have never seen him again ! I must admit I probably would not have recognized my mother, my focus was so intense that night. Msg #23850 Dated 1:06:18 10-29-91 23742 <--> 23870 From: JERRY BURTON To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Actually there were 9 auditionees, and 7 made it. They have auditions the first Monday of each month. The membership committee is 'supposed ' to made up of fully qualified (meaning they have passed the performance audition, done at Friday lunch) close-up magicians. They were the toughest audience I've ever faced, no one laughed or even acknowledged I had done anything, they totally stone-wall the performer. I have heard that the less they have you do, the better off you are. Meaning that after one or two effects they have already decided you are OK, and don't want to waste time with the rest of your stuff. If you end up doing your entire 10-15 minutes you are probably in trouble. Msg #23851 Dated 1:06:27 10-29-91 23757 <--> 23861 From: JERRY BURTON To: TABBY CRABB (X) Re: KEEP THE WHEELS Hey Tab make sure you use one of Pete's cameras, rather than one of Gloria's guns, when you do the shooting ! Msg #23852 Dated 1:06:30 10-29-91 23711 <--> 23898 From: JERRY BURTON To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT The crystal skulls from Brazil are rather crude, however there are a new ones coming in from Germany and Taiwan that are really exquisite, although they are rather expensive. I'm working on a new effect using a crystal skull encased in an acylic pyramid. It will change to the color selected by the psychic tubes, should be a killer Msg #23853 Dated 1:06:34 10-29-91 23731 <--> 23871 From: JERRY BURTON To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE I'm President of the Robotics Society of Southern Calif. a non-profit group with about 60 members. We are building computer based autono- mous robots for personal (i.e. home) use. I have a complete robot collection, including every one that was ever commercially built, with the exception of the Hero I which I'm still trying to find. I also collect toy robots and have well over 50 of them. . My main research machine is an AT based robot with a 20 meg hard drive and a TI speech recognition and synthesis subsystem. It has multiple sensors (6 sonar, and an infra-red detector) and I'm writing experimental navigation software in Zortech C++. The society robot is also AT based and has a COVOX speech system, and we are writing the control stuff in Forth. We meet the second Sat of every month at Orange Coast College for the day and members bring their projects in for display and consulatation - its a lot of fun. Msg #23854 Dated 1:06:46 10-29-91 23745 <--> 23878 From: JERRY BURTON To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: COPPERFIELD Yea I was rooting for the Braves as well. I saw an interview with Ted Turner the other night and was hoping his guys could pull it off. He's gotten kinda mellow and more into saving the planet, than owning it - could be the Fonda effect. Msg #23855 Dated 1:06:50 10-29-91 23765 <--> 23859 From: JERRY BURTON To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: RESTAURANTS Yamashiro's for sunset is great ! It's right above the castle so it's easy to get to the early close-up show. Recommend reservations on weekends. Msg #23856 Dated 1:06:53 10-29-91 -> 23887 From: JERRY BURTON To: MIKE KING (X) Re: 5 CARD MYSTERY S E ALL Wind-up Card Finder I have seen a card effect where a wind-up toy is used to find a spectator's chosen card. I have a real neat wind-up skull that moves by flapping its lower jaw. Where can I find a write-up on the effect. Or better yet could someone tell me how its done ? Msg #23857 Dated 1:13:42 10-29-91 -> 24357 From: JERRY BURTON To: MIKE KING (X) Re: 5 CARD MYSTERY Thanks for showing me that great 5 card routine at the castle last week. I used it Sat night in a show and it worked perfectly. I pulled the 20 face cards (page, knight, queen, king, & ace) from a waite tarot deck and had the person select any five cards. I then used my 'magic acorn' dowser to find their card - it was great ! Thanks again - its something I'll use from now on. . Burton the Bizarre. Msg #23858 Dated 1:16:16 10-29-91 -> 23888 From: JERRY BURTON To: ALL Re: WIND-UP CARD FINDER I have seen a card effect where a wind-up toy is used to find a spectator's chosen card. I have a real neat wind-up skull that moves by flapping its lower jaw. Where can I find a write-up on the effect. Or better yet could someone tell me how its done ? . Burton the Bizarre. Msg #23859 Dated 4:07:05 10-29-91 23806 <--> 23886 From: MAX MAVEN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: RESTAURANTS You're out of touch... the Copper Penny was torn down years ago. Msg #23861 Dated 4:24:06 10-29-91 23791 <--> 23866 From: TABBY CRABB To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: KEEP THE WHEELS Good, thanx.... Msg #23862 Dated 4:25:43 10-29-91 23800 <--> 23865 From: TABBY CRABB To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: FOR THE BIRDS Yeah, I'm just a smattering right now. My father in law is waiting for me in his pickup downstairs and we're making the maryland turnaround in a few. Be glad to take two weeks off from moving when I get back. Take care, bro.... Msg #23863 Dated 4:25:48 10-29-91 23801 <--> 23891 From: TABBY CRABB To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: NUEVO DECARLO I knew the pix of Coathanger would be killer with you snappin. I like the idea of FARO, huh!!! Mexico would be good location. Msg #23866 Dated 4:25:56 10-29-91 23851 <--> 23883 From: TABBY CRABB To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: KEEP THE WHEELS That's a good one, BB... Msg #23868 Dated 7:46:17 10-29-91 23825 <--> 23901 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: HALLOWEEN I wood, but the WOK (the electric one) is broken... it stays on "high" setting no matter where the dial is placed. Too cruel... Msg #23869 Dated 7:46:21 10-29-91 23826 <- From: PETE BIRO To: DANTE LARSEN (X) Re: ADDRESS Were they flashing on and off? If so, does Marvyn Roy know this? Msg #23870 Dated 7:46:24 10-29-91 23829 <--> 23882 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION A good line is never wasted. Msg #23871 Dated 7:46:26 10-29-91 23830 <--> 23884 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Yes, when you are as famous as I am you must take advantage of the sucke.... er, ah, fans out there. Msg #23874 Dated 7:46:38 10-29-91 23833 <--> 23894 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY With the animals? Live... yar... do S&R know this?? Msg #23875 Dated 7:46:41 10-29-91 23834 <--> 23880 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Try the Antique Mall in Westchester, near LAX, I used to find old roulette wheels in a couple of the booths there. Then there is Memory Lanes and the best Sleep Hollow (you got to look up the addresses). Msg #23876 Dated 7:46:47 10-29-91 23835 <--> 23877 From: PETE BIRO To: T A WATERS (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Film can? Arcane duece? Will go look. Tanks. Msg #23877 Dated 7:46:50 10-29-91 23839 <--> 23879 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Why would you want to light up the floor? Msg #23878 Dated 7:46:52 10-29-91 23840 <--> 23885 From: PETE BIRO To: T A WATERS (X) Re: COPPERFIELD I know... but I personally feel people have lost their sense of humor and ability to laugh AT themselves and be cool. Wilt Chamberlain was on talk show (he has new book out) and he was talking about "persons of color" having rhythm, moves and style the white guys do not... the host said, "Hey, isn't that what Al Campanis basically said, and he lost his career over it?" The Stilt said, "Yeah that's right... be we (blacks) can call each other ANYTHING and it's OK!" . Why? Frankly, if Campanis truly (and I believe he does) believes what he said, it is his opinion, and based on his age/background it would be expected... he should not have taken the heat. And I think the real fault is the folks that fire someone for "their opinion". Msg #23879 Dated 7:47:07 10-29-91 23843 <--> 23895 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID VANVRANKEN (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Do you know the ORIGINAL, and the first Himber Wallet was the small size? You want a killer get ahold of the Proust Wallet (out of Acadamie of Magie in Paris (Joe Stevens might have 'em as he deals with Georges Proust. Msg #23880 Dated 7:47:13 10-29-91 23844 <--> 23909 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Fact is stranger than fiction. What was $$ for Waters' paperback? Altho I was left out and Diana Zimmerman was "in"... ptooey T A. Msg #23881 Dated 7:47:16 10-29-91 23847 <--> 23944 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: TRICK OR TREAT Modicums of attention will get you every time. Effect sounds great. If you get to the IBM in Salt Lake Zity... make sure Pat Page (I just booked him... well worth the trip just for him)... shows you his stuff in that area, coins in spectator's hands. He has some well thought out stuff. Msg #23882 Dated 7:47:23 10-29-91 23850 <--> 23896 From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I look at audition tapes for various shows I produce and within about 30-60 seconds KNOW if the act is good enuf... then I run the tapes at FFwd and stop only if something unusual seems to be happening. . I once did an audition for the Ed Sullivan show... the hall was empty except for 2 guys sitting in the front row, looking like they wanted to be elsewhere. And with my act (at the time, 1952) being mostly talk/reaction with audience... it was going only medium... then right in the first part of my 3 ball juggling bits, a voice in the back yelled out... "LIGHT TEST" and about 12 spot lights came on. I think those Juggling Balls are still bouncing around somewhere... I have never seen them since! . I was 2nd place and they only picked one guy for the show from our audition... Argh... (It was the FINALS in the European Theater ALL ARMY TALENT CONTEST). Msg #23883 Dated 7:47:40 10-29-91 23851 <- From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: KEEP THE WHEELS good observation Camera not Gun.... tsk.... Msg #23884 Dated 7:47:43 10-29-91 23853 <--> 23899 From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Sounds better than magic. Hey can the robot make the card rise? Come out onstage as an assistant? Saves buying food for 'em. Msg #23885 Dated 7:47:47 10-29-91 23854 <--> 23900 From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: COPPERFIELD good observation on ted Msg #23886 Dated 7:47:50 10-29-91 23855 <--> 23889 From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: RESTAURANTS Yeah but Stan said, "reasonably priced"... otherwise eat at the Castle... Msg #23887 Dated 7:47:54 10-29-91 23856 <--> 23976 From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: 5 CARD MYSTERY Couple of ways. You have a circle of cards or row of cards on the table the toy (or skull) old joke... "This is Houdini's Skull, when he was an infant"... argh... . Anyhoo the Skull moves about, stops on a card and it is the one. . How? . Packet of cards on table are ALL THE SAME... why struggle? Use a half Force deck... when Skull stops on a card, pick up all the others, put back on top of deck and then spread the bottom part of deck face up to show "all different"... pause... sell... reveal. . Other ideas. Big magnet under table, metal in skull stops over it? . Go back to method one it is more practical. I think it is the way Don Alan does Ranch Bird? Anbody know for sure? Max? Msg #23888 Dated 7:48:11 10-29-91 23858 <--> 23975 From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: WIND-UP CARD FINDER Are you asking again? Or a different "ALL"? Msg #23889 Dated 7:48:14 10-29-91 23859 <--> 23950 From: PETE BIRO To: MAX MAVEN (X) Re: RESTAURANTS GLAD TO HEAR... THE FOOD DESERVED A BULLDOZER! Msg #23891 Dated 7:48:24 10-29-91 23863 <--> 24267 From: PETE BIRO To: TABBY CRABB (X) Re: NUEVO DECARLO The lighting was not good for the linking rings... no shadow to separate, but the facial and the faro is superbo... Msg #23893 Dated 9:24:04 10-29-91 23845 <--> 23945 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Selling is a specialized skill of its own. Done well it is an art. It takes a person with an interest in it and it takes a lot of time. As a general rule, a single individual does not really have the time or the skills to master both selling and performing. You are also right about the fact that the distance from the "product" means that the salesperson suffers less individual rejection. Which also means that they are more motivated to get back on the phone and make the next call when they don't make a sale. The performer, at that point, would rather crawl under a rock. Msg #23894 Dated 9:29:39 10-29-91 23874 <--> 23949 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Nero's act was big time - booked into the biggest venues - before S&R were even working cruise ships. Msg #23895 Dated 9:33:08 10-29-91 23877 <--> 23915 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Reponse to "Why would you want to light up the floor?" Because I wanted to do an act to "You Light Up My Life" and I'm a low-life? Msg #23896 Dated 9:34:52 10-29-91 23850 <--> 23897 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Interesting, Jerry! The committee I faced was warm and supportive! They "ooohed," "aaahed," and applauded even though the effects I did were pretty primative (although later I was asked how I'd done one of 'em!). I was tense going down the stairs, but they made me feel OK during the performance part of the audition. I was still prety nervous during the interview before the performance. Msg #23897 Dated 9:38:13 10-29-91 23870 <--> 23916 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Response to "A good line is never wasted." My view - a "good line" accomplishes something specific; it isn't just thrown out there because it is handy. It has to have a purpose. It is like a note in a musical score - it has to fit and to make the entire score stronger. Msg #23898 Dated 9:45:53 10-29-91 23852 <--> 23974 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT Changing the color of a crystal skull to the color selected by the psychic tubes would be a KILLER, Jerry! I love it! By the way, I got my set of tubes! I don't plan to steal your act though! Msg #23899 Dated 9:50:04 10-29-91 23871 <--> 23917 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Not only that, Pete, it is essential that your collected wisdom be preserved for posterior. Msg #23900 Dated 9:52:03 10-29-91 23840 <--> 23906 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: T A WATERS (X) Re: COPPERFIELD But who are the "they," T A? Is it a vocal minority? I always have a problem with any "they" that is defined, either by itself or by others, on racial, ethnic, gender, etc. lines. Was the opinion of every member of the group taken? Msg #23901 Dated 10:05:07 10-29-91 23868 <--> 23978 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: HALLOWEEN OK, here is the "mild" version of the effect. You fill the bottom of the COLD wok with water and dry ice. You place the pennies in a liner (bowl) and invite the kids to help themselves. Msg #23903 Dated 10:07:01 10-29-91 23641 <--> 23904 From: GENO MUNARI To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: SNEAKY BUSINESS Ok Pete, I will keep looking. Tell Stan Lake I will look for him also. Off to Tahoe for a show Monday, be back on Monday night. And away we goooooo.....!!!!! Msg #23904 Dated 10:07:09 10-29-91 23643 <- From: GENO MUNARI To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: SNEAKY BUSINESS Great! Msg #23905 Dated 10:07:14 10-29-91 23692 <--> 23912 From: GENO MUNARI To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLENGE Is this the option for ascii, "expand blank lines" Msg #23906 Dated 10:07:19 10-29-91 23724 <--> 23918 From: GENO MUNARI To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: COPPERFIELD Saw Copperfield last night. This has to be the best magic show I have ever seen. Truely unbelievable!!!!! The flying is a beaut! Msg #23909 Dated 10:10:05 10-29-91 23875 <--> 23910 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Thanks for the suggestions on where to shop! Appreciate it! Msg #23910 Dated 10:11:06 10-29-91 23880 <--> 23961 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS The paperback edition of T A Water's Encyclopedia was goin' for regular price - $ 19.95 I believe. Msg #23912 Dated 10:27:09 10-29-91 23905 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: GENO MUNARI (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLENGE Yes! When you are using IMP! to send multiple messages, you have to turn "expand blank lines" OFF. Msg #23913 Dated 10:57:47 10-29-91 23599 <- From: WAYNE POWERS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: LINGO The easiest form of doublespeak can be found by watching and listening to any session of the Senate or House! (Or by replaying a tape of the Thomas/Hill Hearings). Al Kelly would've made a great Senator! 'W. Msg #23915 Dated 11:50:04 10-29-91 23895 <--> 23923 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS I thought you were making "footlights" dude... Msg #23916 Dated 11:50:07 10-29-91 23897 <--> 23924 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION OK, purpose, fit... My Grandfather worked for a tailor. Whenever they wanted a Perfect Fit... he would throw one. Msg #23917 Dated 11:50:10 10-29-91 23899 <--> 23925 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE What about my posterior? When someone says, "You're back" you turn and say "What's wrong with my back?" Msg #23918 Dated 11:50:14 10-29-91 23906 <--> 23960 From: PETE BIRO To: GENO MUNARI (X) Re: COPPERFIELD Stop it... or everybody will want to see Copperfield. Hah, I was first! Msg #23923 Dated 12:54:23 10-29-91 23915 <--> 23933 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Nah, for footlights you don't use 35-mm film cans. You use Minox film cans. Msg #23924 Dated 12:55:16 10-29-91 23916 <--> 23934 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION RE: "My Grandfather worked for a tailor..." COMMENT: Rim Shot. EXPLAINATION: Biro still hasn't sold those old joke books. Msg #23925 Dated 12:56:20 10-29-91 23917 <--> 23939 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Pete - You is doin' 40's material in a 90's world. Interesting, Copperfield's logo is "MAGIC FOR THE 90's". Msg #23931 Dated 13:22:33 10-29-91 -> 23937 From: GENO MUNARI To: MICHAEL AMMAR (X) Re: LUNCH Mike, Nice seeing you and Hannah.....thanks for saying hello and visiting. Please encourage Hannah to do Mentalism....there is noo female Kreskin,,,she would be great. My best to Glen and Frances. . Msg #23933 Dated 16:06:53 10-29-91 23923 <--> 23940 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS With Candles... har Msg #23934 Dated 16:06:56 10-29-91 23924 <--> 23938 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Should look in 'em for some new stuff. Msg #23936 Dated 16:07:05 10-29-91 From: PETE BIRO To: CHARLIE RANDALL (X) Re: PAVEL Y DINERO Ee;23931 Chas... the book and bux arrived today, many thanks. Boy is the mail slow. I had something sent first class 2 weeks ago from Ohio ( a pay check ) and it still is not hear. Kevin sent a tape a week ago and it ain't in this kids file... argh... . Now I am sure it is storage the PO business must be... . Geno Munari is looking for Don Alan's Pretty Sneaky as is one other person on line... you all have? Msg #23937 Dated 16:07:17 10-29-91 23931 <--> 23947 From: PETE BIRO To: GENO MUNARI (X) Re: LUNCH Geno... did I ask you where dice blanks can be gotten? Looking for some. Need not be casino red unless they ARE available blank. . I want to do some experimenting. Msg #23938 Dated 16:24:55 10-29-91 23849 <--> 23941 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Jerry, Into the abyss we walked.... Yeah, I know what you mean. I've never auditioned at the Castle, but I've done enough auditioning for a lifetime. Especially when you don't know if you're even in the ballpark for what you are doing. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23939 Dated 16:25:01 10-29-91 23853 <--> 23973 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Jerry, It sounds like lots of fun. The only computer based robot I ever built was long, long, ago in a land faraway. It was a little Sinclair based thing. I usually design the hardware to do what ever I want it to do. There is a great (albeit old) article in the Amateur Scientist on hardware building. Maybe sometime I can convince you to invite me to one of your meetings. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23940 Dated 16:26:56 10-29-91 23933 <--> 23951 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Yep - footcandles. Msg #23941 Dated 16:27:44 10-29-91 23934 <--> 23952 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Nope - you gotta look in the new books. The 90's are still using humor from the 80's - its gotta be serious humor - stuff about lawyers. Msg #23944 Dated 16:40:24 10-29-91 23881 <--> 23954 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: TRICK OR TREAT Pete, Okay, it is time, once again, for Kevin to show his ignorance. IBM where? (Yeah, I know, SLC but WHERE?) How does one get on newsletter mailing lists? If I do get over, I'll be sure to look Pat Page up. (Hey, are we allowed to end our sentences with prepositions now, or what?) Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23945 Dated 16:40:30 10-29-91 23893 <--> 23948 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION David, One learns many lessons in life. I've learned my share of mine, but another (I keep typing lessons in life, I think I'll compile them.) a good salesman will ALWAYS have food on the table, and money in the bank. A genius is likely to starve. Sigh. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23947 Dated 18:46:55 10-29-91 23937 <--> 23956 From: GENO MUNARI To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: LUNCH How many do you need? Msg #23948 Dated 20:14:18 10-29-91 23945 <--> 23955 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I've always had problems with the definition of "genius." Particularly the starving kind. Msg #23949 Dated 20:49:19 10-29-91 23846 <--> 23957 From: STAN LAKE To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY My main occupation is a letter carrier. Up at five ayem every morning. I don't function very well on less than eight hours sleep and it isn't hard to stay at the Castle well past midnight if you want to see everything or even if you just get to chatting and swapping tricks. Do any of the days among November 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th or 11th look good? Msg #23950 Dated 20:59:24 10-29-91 23855 <--> 23958 From: STAN LAKE To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: RESTAURANTS I hear that is a VERY expensive restaurant and not exactly worth the yen they charge. Must be pretty good though, they've been in business a long time. Jack Nicholson was spotted there the other day and he can eat anywhere he pleases! Msg #23951 Dated 23:02:41 10-29-91 23940 <--> 23963 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Just got back from the Nicholas Night lecture in San Francisco. Goooood stuff. . Cindy... you got to get his lecture notes. Some GREAT shell coin handlings, accross, thru table and a chink-a-chink type routine. And a coin thru silk, visible killer stuff. . He lives in Long Beach on Ximino Ave., call information. . Nick's killer was Enigma (see ads in the magazines) is a nifty penetration of borrowed rolled up dollar bill thru a glass. In spectator's hands... plus. . And his Dressed to Kill (Tie TAC) is AMAZING... all stuff in notes is book quality described, so you didn't have to be there! Msg #23952 Dated 23:02:57 10-29-91 23941 <--> 23964 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Phone message on my answerving machina... was Tabman, "In Maryland, tired, going to bed..." Thassall he kud say... Msg #23954 Dated 23:03:03 10-29-91 23944 <--> 23971 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: TRICK OR TREAT Do you get Linking Ring Magazine? If you are an IBM member you do. If not... shame... It will be in Salt Lake City, July 1-2-3-4, 1992 at the Hotel somethin... argh... had it written on a piece of paper pinned to the filing cabinet next to my computer, but moved the cabinet into another room yesterday... Well it will be a good one and I will have mo' info later... . Meanwhile borrow a copy of the Linking Ring and read the ad! Msg #23955 Dated 23:03:12 10-29-91 23945 <--> 23969 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I'm hungry.... Msg #23956 Dated 23:03:15 10-29-91 23947 <--> 24057 From: PETE BIRO To: GENO MUNARI (X) Re: LUNCH I guess I better talk to you on the phone in a day or two. Or if I miss you maybe a dozen? Not 100-percent sure of the size. Will check and call or leave a detailed private message. Tanks. Msg #23957 Dated 23:03:20 10-29-91 23949 <--> 23970 From: PETE BIRO To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY You need to look in the Old Farmers Almanac to see if the days are goin got look good... remember, Fernando always said, "It is better to look good than to feel good!" Msg #23958 Dated 23:03:24 10-29-91 23950 <--> 24038 From: PETE BIRO To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: RESTAURANTS Yamashiro's? Hey, the fish in the pond cost hundreds, maybe thousands EACH... I used to have some... Not for sushi. I like my Sushi well done.... ? Msg #23959 Dated 23:03:32 10-29-91 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN KURTIN Re: IBM HOTEL DATES Several have asked, so here is the answer: IBM Convention. July 1-2-3-4 1992, Marriott Hotel Salt Lake City $79 single/double. Shows at Capitol Theater. Info: IBM '92, PO BOX 7046, Alexandria, VA 22307 (tell him you heard it on MAGIC!)... G'NITE... Msg #23960 Dated 23:04:48 10-29-91 23878 <--> 23962 From: T A WATERS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: COPPERFIELD In regard to demeaning statements, I think Cyrano (or Rostand in the Brian Hooker translation) said it best: "I say these things lightly enough myself, about myself, but I will allow none else to utter them." Msg #23961 Dated 23:08:01 10-29-91 23880 <--> 23989 From: T A WATERS To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS I will point out, Pete, that *I* am not in my book. Msg #23962 Dated 23:15:18 10-29-91 23900 <--> 23966 From: T A WATERS To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: COPPERFIELD Actually, the "they" can be a single member of that group -- but more often it is most of them. Lenny Bruce once said that the really obscene words were kike, wop, nigger, spic and kill! I am all for absolute freedom of speech -- but I can't imagine why anyone, particularly in show business, would WANT to alienate a part of their audience. It simply is not necessary, unless you're Andrew Dice Clay. Msg #23963 Dated 23:22:36 10-29-91 23951 <--> 23990 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Interesting! Thanks for the Nicholas Night lecture report! Msg #23964 Dated 23:22:58 10-29-91 23952 <- From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Thanks for relaying Tabman's message. Poor dude - he's seen enough white line to last for a while. I once did L.A. to Midlands, Tx. non-stop. Picked up a friend there and continued on to Dallas/Ft. Worth before sleeping at all. 4 hrs. sleep in D/FW, about 8 in Mobile, AL, and on to Columbia, SC. Stuff like that is best done when you are young. Msg #23966 Dated 23:28:20 10-29-91 23962 <--> 23988 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: T A WATERS (X) Re: COPPERFIELD Seems that Andrew Dice Clay makes a rather nice living by alienating people! It is an ancient technique - bonds him to everyone who isn't "them." I think that you would find that quite often the "they" that you referred to is NOT a majority of any group. An interesting area of conversation, but, I guess, one which lacks a magic basis - unless we discuss the "magicalumpen." Msg #23969 Dated 0:07:44 10-30-91 23948 <--> 23982 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION David, You are absolutly correct. There really is no good definition of genius. I guess the context that I use it most often is: someone who is EXTREMELY good at what he does. The number on an I.Q. test mean NOTHING! I've taken a couple of those tests. They measure your ability to take a test, which I am good at. Itzak Perlman has an above average I.Q., but when it comes to violin, the man is a GENIUS. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23970 Dated 0:07:51 10-30-91 23949 <--> 24011 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: STAN LAKE (X) Re: HALLOWEEN PARTY Stan, I don't answer your letters as quickly as most, and I thought you would like to know why. It is now nearly midnight, and my wife is in the other room sleeping like a log. (Hmm, good lyric, just don't let the Beatles know.) I need to check with her and find out which days are good for her. So, I will probably respond as soon as I have a chance to talk with her. I always wondered how mail carrier's schedules worked. It didn't seem likely to me that they made you work 6 days in a row. It is all beginning to make sense. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23971 Dated 0:07:58 10-30-91 23954 <--> 23994 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: TRICK OR TREAT Pete, You have found me out. Oh the shame of it all(weeping broadly into outstretched arm.) No, I am not a member of IBM. No, I don't get Linking Ring magazine. Heck, truth be told, I don't even get Genie magazine. Am I cast out for all eternity? Can I make amends? Would it help if I subscribed immediately? Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23973 Dated 0:17:05 10-30-91 23939 <--> 23985 From: JERRY BURTON To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Everyone is always welcome, Orange Coast College is in Costa Mesa. We have a HW lab from 10-12 am, general mtg 12:30-2:00 pm, and SW lab from 2:15-40 pm. Come any 2nd Sat, call me at (714) 535-8161 for directions. Msg #23974 Dated 0:17:08 10-30-91 23898 <--> 23980 From: JERRY BURTON To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT I did the tubes Sat night and added the comment, "The steel tube causes interference so that it will be the weakest image I pick up", I then proceed to get the colors of ALL the others and then show the one in the tube. The effect then becomes reading the minds of five pe oples minds. Msg #23975 Dated 0:17:13 10-30-91 23888 <--> 23983 From: JERRY BURTON To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: WIND-UP CARD FINDER I haven't modified IMP! to handle the sections question on E type entries, so I wasn't sure if the damn thing got loaded or not. Msg #23976 Dated 0:19:07 10-30-91 23887 <--> 23995 From: MAX MAVEN To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: 5 CARD MYSTERY Yes, this is the basic idea behind Don Alan's "Ranch Bird." It's worth noting, however, that the idea pre-dates Don. It was originally called something like the "Gillagoo Bird" and devised by an English magician. (Sorry I can't be more specific; I'm still burned out from spending the weekend in Europe; too many airplanes in too short a time.) Surely T. A. Waters can provide the correct information... Msg #23978 Dated 0:24:52 10-30-91 23868 <--> 23996 From: JERRY BURTON To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: HALLOWEEN But an old ginch like you should enjoy the kids grabbing HOT pennies from a red hot wok ! I think it's a great idea, but I going to a PSYCHIC PHENOMENA to hear the pastor of the Mystical United Spiritual ists Church speak about vibrations, spirits, ghosts, mediumship, and a TRUE demonstration of transfiguration -- for everyone to see ! . No lie this is right from the brochure - what a deal for a $ 5 donation -its NOT magic, this is the REAL STUFF !! Will give a report late Thurs eve. . Burton the Bizarre. G Msg #23980 Dated 7:43:11 10-30-91 23974 <--> 24042 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: FOOD FOR THOUGHT Yeah! That's beginning to make sense! Although, of course, then reading the one in the tube becomes a process of elimination. What if you worked in a prediction of the tubed one? And were the others in envelopes? Msg #23982 Dated 7:50:12 10-30-91 23969 <--> 23986 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Before you cast asparagus at the entire field of inteligence testing, you might want to be aware of my background. . . I have spent most of my life in the fields of education and psychology. Under a corollary of the "T A Water's Theorem" about who can say what about whom, I believe that I have the right to disparage I. Q. testing and that you likely do not. Should you choose to continue in this dangerous direction, I will begin to feel justified in making citations to the literature. On the other hand, if you want to develop a magic effect in which you read people's I.Q.'s by using a deck of ordinary playing cards, that would be no problem. Msg #23983 Dated 8:09:45 10-30-91 23975 <--> 23997 From: DAVID LICHTMAN (Sysop) To: PETE BIRO (X) Re: WIND-UP CARD FINDER Pete - Don't panic! The "sections question on E type entries" that Jerry referred to can only be seen by him! He is in test mode on a new version of IMP! and sees stuff that doesn't exist yet for everyone else. Msg #23985 Dated 10:05:27 10-30-91 23973 <--> 24048 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: MAGIC! CHALLANGE Jerry, I will avail myself of your offer. I can't think what it is right now, but I know I have made a commitment for the 2nd Sat. in Nov. I'll be in touch. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23986 Dated 10:05:32 10-30-91 23982 <--> 23998 From: KEVIN E CURTIN To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION David, It seems that no matter what I say, I offend someone. Believe it or not, this is not my intention. I'll give you some background in my paticular testing, then let you do as you see fit with it. I have taken two standardized I.Q. tests over my lifetime. They both put me above the 180 level. These are, in my opinion, scores that I truly don't deserve if measuring pure intelligence. Furthermore, it is obvious to anyone who has studied statistics, that anything that far right on the bell curve has a margin of error that is out of this world. It is not my desire to disparage anyone's career. The tests are needed for placement, paticularly in education. My only suggestion is that they are not the basis for rating someone "Genius." As to rating someone's intelligence with cards, now there would be an interesting way to get back at a heckler. Enjoy! Kevin Msg #23988 Dated 12:18:20 10-30-91 23960 <--> 23993 From: PETE BIRO To: T A WATERS (X) Re: COPPERFIELD Cyrano had a nose for news! Msg #23989 Dated 12:18:22 10-30-91 23961 <- From: PETE BIRO To: T A WATERS (X) Re: CRUISES AND TUXEDOS Hopefully a second "updated" edition will be forthcoming whereupon you can correct such unjust (funny the word at the left was typed "unjest" and I backspaced and corrected it...) uh, overslights! Msg #23990 Dated 12:18:27 10-30-91 23963 <--> 23991 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS I have just invented a new trick based on something Nic did with his tie tac. The trick has nothing to do with a tie tac, but is as follows (Max lemme know if this is, indeed, new)... Briefly: Deck of cards brought out. There is a 1/2-inch hole drilled thru center of cards. You comment about how Casinos drill, punch, etc., cards so no one can take 'em home, mark 'em and switch them into a game. So these are punched. "Hole-E-Ambitious" is the name. Card freely selected and signed. Returned to the deck. A large Nut and Bolt is brought out. Put thru hole in deck and the nut tightened. Washers at each end. You comment how the cards are put in this state "like card presses of old days" to keep flat and to keep from LOSING any cards... in this state NO CARD CAN GET OUT! Yet, the Magicalmpkin, holding the deck in plain view (you could put under a cloth cover if you like the Undercover Mystery of it) you riffle one end, grip a card and PULL IT FREE. THE CARD IS UNGAFFED AND YOU CAN TOSS IT ON THE TABLE AND LEAVE IT IF YOU WISH. Before you pull the card out the deck can be looked at very carfully and can be handled freely. Is this new? Msg #23991 Dated 12:18:47 10-30-91 23963 <--> 24003 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: PACKET TRICKS Max, et al... Had I not mentioned the Tie Tac, you would probably NOT KNOW THE IDEA BEHIND THE PRINCIPLE... BUT I DID... TSK... Msg #23993 Dated 12:18:54 10-30-91 23966 <--> 24626 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: COPPERFIELD I have modified it to MagicalumpKIN... since we are all brothers and sisters... Msg #23994 Dated 12:18:58 10-30-91 23971 <--> 24030 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: TRICK OR TREAT Nothing will help if it is not in your heart. Msg #23995 Dated 12:19:00 10-30-91 23976 <--> 24014 From: PETE BIRO To: MAX MAVEN (X) Re: 5 CARD MYSTERY I have the Gillagaloo Bird as well, but the instruction sheet is --your guess is as good as mine-- I have just moved a 4 drawer file into my magic room and am going to soon, file all the lecture notes and instruction sheets. Have done 120-plus instruction sheets from Ken Brooke alone!!!! I know whatcha mean about flying tooooo much... It took me 2 weeks to recover from FISM, because I went from IBM in Baltimore to Los Angeles for a 2 day photo job, then from LA to Lausanne! Had no idea what time zone I was in ... argh... Msg #23996 Dated 12:19:11 10-30-91 23978 <--> 24031 From: PETE BIRO To: JERRY BURTON (X) Re: HALLOWEEN Pray for me... Uh, you into techie stuff is there any good place to get a catalog on Magnets? Msg #23997 Dated 12:19:14 10-30-91 23983 <--> 24005 From: PETE BIRO To: DAVID LICHTMAN (SYSOP) (X) Re: WIND-UP CARD FINDER I see things that don't exist as well. Msg #23998 Dated 12:19:17 10-30-91 23986 <--> 23999 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION Yah, force a Death Card from a Tarot deck on some dude... or a JOKER ??? Nah, too easy on 'em... argh... ;-) Msg #23999 Dated 12:19:21 10-30-91 23986 <--> 24001 From: PETE BIRO To: KEVIN E CURTIN (X) Re: MAGIC AUDITION I am terrible at taking tests. I don't know much, but I have a sense of being able to judge art and talent and the ability to come up with lots of ideas, when edited by someone with brains can lead to a few good things. Sometimes. ===END OF MAGIC-68===
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