Posts
Newsletter of IBM Ring #170
The Bev Bergeron Ring
Next general meeting Wednesday, 12/17/2008 at 7:30 PM SHARP
Meeting theme: Annual Gift Exchange
The Elks Club Lodge #1079,
12 N. Primrose Dr., Orlando, Florida 32803
“The corner of Primrose Drive and Central Boulevard” (click for map)
Lunch meetings in the McDonalds on the north side of SandLake Rd between I-4 and International Drive near the rest rooms
Website: http://www.ring170.com/
F. A. M. E. is the Florida Association of Magical Entertainers
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Directory
Craig J. Fennessy – President – CraigFennessy@gmail.com
Chris Dunn- Vice President – Youngdunns@yahoo.com
Art Thomas – Treasurer – Art.Thomas@Disney.com
Dennis Philips- Secretary – Dennis@alliedcostumes.com
James Songster- Director at Large, - JjTjMagic@aol.com
Joe Vecciarelli- Sgt at Arms - talkingmute@tampabay.rr.com
Stefan Bartelski – Editor of “Famulus”- Famulus@illusioneer.com
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GET PUBLISHED!
Got an idea for an article to add to the next FAMULUS? Put it in the body of an email or in a Word document attached to an email. Send it to Famulus@illusioneer.com, and we will get you in print.
Please, please, please, use the above e-mail address, your messages are in danger of getting lost if you do not do so.
Monday, December 08, 2008
2008-12 From the editor
Merry Christmas and Season's Greetings as appropriate. This would normally be a busy time for many of our members, but with the current economy.....
Many thanks to all contributors. As the time for New Year's resolutions is approaching, please make a resolution to contribute at least one item in 2009.
Be sure to attend our annual gift exchange, Jackie always makes this a super fun evening.
Your editor
Stefan
Many thanks to all contributors. As the time for New Year's resolutions is approaching, please make a resolution to contribute at least one item in 2009.
Be sure to attend our annual gift exchange, Jackie always makes this a super fun evening.
Your editor
Stefan
2008-12 Ring Report Ring #170 The Bev Bergeron Ring
Thanksgiving was just a week away as we conducted our November business meeting. This holiday season will be a bit thinner for many of our working professionals, so every show is appreciated. We had one guest, Alex Rivera from Orlando, and 33 people in attendance. President Craig Fennessey gaveled the meeting to order and several items were on the agenda.
Next month is the new election for our ring officers and the floor was opened up for nominations. In contrast to last month’s national political races, it appears at this point that the current administration will return for a 3rd term.
The announcement was made that ring dues are due at the end of December. There is a discount for seniors and for those who pay before the end of the year. President Fennessy provided a list of all the benefits of membership: access to the free video library, discounts and free lectures, ring teach-ins and fellowship with other magicians. All this is for a cost of less than 2 dollars a month! Our new meeting place is charging us rent now so dues are important.
After announcements of upcoming events (see the ring website for the latest details), Jacki Manna took the floor to explain the upcoming annual December Christmas and holiday party and gift exchange. Bring a magic gift (trick or book) valued at between fifteen to twenty dollars and come have fun at the December Ring meeting.
In our show-and-tell portion, Richard Hewitt explained how he improved on the standard silk fountain by producing the initial silk bundle from a paper sack. By ripping a slit in the bottom of the bag, his hand goes through making the sack appear empty. He then showed his improvement on the classic Steve Kissell routine with humorous signs.
Carl Fowler, our former ring president, invited the club to join him in the future for a special benefit magic show in Tennessee at a Motorcycle Resort he owns. Kerry Pierce thanked all those who helped him during his recent charity Halloween Haunted House event.
James Songster presented a teach-in on the principle of The Square Circle and showed many examples of the prop and how to make it. He was assisted by Dennis Phillips who did a short history lesson on the inventor of the effect, Louis Histed. Phil Schwartz, our resident magic collector and historian, followed up with his Magic Moment #9. He filled us in on his recent trip to the magic collector’s Yankee Gathering in Boston. The event is held in odd years with the Magic Collector’s Convention.
Kerry Pierce, “KP”, volunteered to Emcee the evening’s ring show. First on was “Magic Mike” Martin doing his version of Tom Burgoon’s Dyslectic Card trick. Donning thick glasses, Mike did a simple card trick and in his directions to a volunteer he had some on the most hilarious and suggestive jumbled words that you could imagine. Charlie Pfrogner followed with another of his unique routines. This time it was his Ouija Board on a small table that revealed what only the spectator could know and then it floated up off the table only to lose its spell and fall with a crash. The effect was eerie.
Dan Stapleton took the stage to present a card trick from his video on card tricks. A selected card was hopelessly lost in the deck with some cards facing up and some facing down. The card ended up being revealed. JC Hiatt, was back in fine health and had a card effect that became a series of reveals. The selected card was lost in the deck and then JC flipped out a card but it has a message to look in his pocket where another card was found that had a message to look on the table. Suddenly a card was noticed on the table and it was the selected card.
Finally Jim McNiff presented a card effect that was an adaptation of Simon Aronson’s “Four Stop Intersection”. This was the first time Jim had publicly presented it using his own method. Four spectators each cut a packet from a deck and then selected a card from their packet. Methodically, Jim named each card. At each step in the effect he eliminated to possibility of a marked deck or a stacked deck. It was an impressive display.
The show concluded and we are preparing for the Holiday Season ahead.
Good things are always happening in Ring 170.
Dennis Phillips
Next month is the new election for our ring officers and the floor was opened up for nominations. In contrast to last month’s national political races, it appears at this point that the current administration will return for a 3rd term.
The announcement was made that ring dues are due at the end of December. There is a discount for seniors and for those who pay before the end of the year. President Fennessy provided a list of all the benefits of membership: access to the free video library, discounts and free lectures, ring teach-ins and fellowship with other magicians. All this is for a cost of less than 2 dollars a month! Our new meeting place is charging us rent now so dues are important.
After announcements of upcoming events (see the ring website for the latest details), Jacki Manna took the floor to explain the upcoming annual December Christmas and holiday party and gift exchange. Bring a magic gift (trick or book) valued at between fifteen to twenty dollars and come have fun at the December Ring meeting.
In our show-and-tell portion, Richard Hewitt explained how he improved on the standard silk fountain by producing the initial silk bundle from a paper sack. By ripping a slit in the bottom of the bag, his hand goes through making the sack appear empty. He then showed his improvement on the classic Steve Kissell routine with humorous signs.
Carl Fowler, our former ring president, invited the club to join him in the future for a special benefit magic show in Tennessee at a Motorcycle Resort he owns. Kerry Pierce thanked all those who helped him during his recent charity Halloween Haunted House event.
James Songster presented a teach-in on the principle of The Square Circle and showed many examples of the prop and how to make it. He was assisted by Dennis Phillips who did a short history lesson on the inventor of the effect, Louis Histed. Phil Schwartz, our resident magic collector and historian, followed up with his Magic Moment #9. He filled us in on his recent trip to the magic collector’s Yankee Gathering in Boston. The event is held in odd years with the Magic Collector’s Convention.
Kerry Pierce, “KP”, volunteered to Emcee the evening’s ring show. First on was “Magic Mike” Martin doing his version of Tom Burgoon’s Dyslectic Card trick. Donning thick glasses, Mike did a simple card trick and in his directions to a volunteer he had some on the most hilarious and suggestive jumbled words that you could imagine. Charlie Pfrogner followed with another of his unique routines. This time it was his Ouija Board on a small table that revealed what only the spectator could know and then it floated up off the table only to lose its spell and fall with a crash. The effect was eerie.
Dan Stapleton took the stage to present a card trick from his video on card tricks. A selected card was hopelessly lost in the deck with some cards facing up and some facing down. The card ended up being revealed. JC Hiatt, was back in fine health and had a card effect that became a series of reveals. The selected card was lost in the deck and then JC flipped out a card but it has a message to look in his pocket where another card was found that had a message to look on the table. Suddenly a card was noticed on the table and it was the selected card.
Finally Jim McNiff presented a card effect that was an adaptation of Simon Aronson’s “Four Stop Intersection”. This was the first time Jim had publicly presented it using his own method. Four spectators each cut a packet from a deck and then selected a card from their packet. Methodically, Jim named each card. At each step in the effect he eliminated to possibility of a marked deck or a stacked deck. It was an impressive display.
The show concluded and we are preparing for the Holiday Season ahead.
Good things are always happening in Ring 170.
Dennis Phillips
2008-12 Wayne Scott passes
It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of Wayne Scott. Wayne and his family are very well known in the world of clown shoes construction and other circus and magic props. Wayne was a clown for Ringling Bros. in the 1960's and his wife, Marti, was seamstress for the circus. Marti and her sons still carry the tradition of making quality shoes and recently made the shoes for the Broadway production of Wicked. In recent years Wayne suffered from Parkinson's and other ailments. He was 79.
Three decades ago Wayne made my Head Chopper, Assistants Revenge illusion and Vanishing Dove Cage, all of which I still use today which is testament to the quality of his props. In the 1970's the SAM Assembly #99 would have their many picnics at Wayne's "unusual" house outside of Orlando. His house, that he literally built himself, contained a trapeze bar, massive clown collection and bus (next to the living room) that would roll out the side of the house when needed for long trips.
Dan Stapleton
Three decades ago Wayne made my Head Chopper, Assistants Revenge illusion and Vanishing Dove Cage, all of which I still use today which is testament to the quality of his props. In the 1970's the SAM Assembly #99 would have their many picnics at Wayne's "unusual" house outside of Orlando. His house, that he literally built himself, contained a trapeze bar, massive clown collection and bus (next to the living room) that would roll out the side of the house when needed for long trips.
Dan Stapleton
2008-12 Dues Are Due
DUES ARE DUE!!
Just a reminder that 2009 F.A.M.E. Ring 170 dues are due.
DUES:
1. If you pay your dues before December 31, 2008 dues will be only $15.00 per year.
2. If you pay dues January 1, 2009 or later… dues will be $20.00 per year.
3. Senior's over 65 years will receive a $5.00 discount off the $20.00 membership only
Due to fact that the club now has to pay for a monthly meeting place we need your support to continue all the great activities that you have come to enjoy. This is less than $2.00 a month for a year of great magical activities.
Some of the benefits of paid members FAME Ring 170, Orlando, Florida
1. Monthly magic meetings
2. Free Magic teach-ins at the meetings
3. Free monthly Magic History by our magic historian…Phil Schwartz
4. Free magic tape library access…. Over 250 titles
5. Monthly newsletter "Famulus"
6. Yearly Flea market/auction and workshops
7. Yearly Banquet and Magic Show
8. Magic lecture by some of the top magicians in the country 6-8 lectures per year (Discounted admission for paid members)
9. Yearly Holiday party!
10. ….and great fellowship all year!
ALL THIS AND MORE FOR LESS THAT $2.00 per month!!! Just skip one "Mocca Latte' at Starbucks per month and you've got dues covered.
CONTACT: Art Thomas for dues payment
Just a reminder that 2009 F.A.M.E. Ring 170 dues are due.
DUES:
1. If you pay your dues before December 31, 2008 dues will be only $15.00 per year.
2. If you pay dues January 1, 2009 or later… dues will be $20.00 per year.
3. Senior's over 65 years will receive a $5.00 discount off the $20.00 membership only
Due to fact that the club now has to pay for a monthly meeting place we need your support to continue all the great activities that you have come to enjoy. This is less than $2.00 a month for a year of great magical activities.
Some of the benefits of paid members FAME Ring 170, Orlando, Florida
1. Monthly magic meetings
2. Free Magic teach-ins at the meetings
3. Free monthly Magic History by our magic historian…Phil Schwartz
4. Free magic tape library access…. Over 250 titles
5. Monthly newsletter "Famulus"
6. Yearly Flea market/auction and workshops
7. Yearly Banquet and Magic Show
8. Magic lecture by some of the top magicians in the country 6-8 lectures per year (Discounted admission for paid members)
9. Yearly Holiday party!
10. ….and great fellowship all year!
ALL THIS AND MORE FOR LESS THAT $2.00 per month!!! Just skip one "Mocca Latte' at Starbucks per month and you've got dues covered.
CONTACT: Art Thomas for dues payment
2008-12 Mystery House Magic Company opens
GRAND OPENING!
As Announced in the November Meeting, Mystery House Magic Company, owned and operated by Ashley Diller and Patrick is Now Open! Blood sweat and magic went into it but we made our Dec. 1st deadline! We're still cleaning up the site a little, fixing our catalog, and adding our links!
Friends, we couldn't have done it without you, and we would like to ask you a favor! If you would like to be included/advertised in our links site the PLEASE, send us a picture you want use, plus contact info, and just a little bit about you.
Come in now for our Grand Opening Special! ALL of our prices have been marked down by 35% off MSRP to celebrate, not only this joyous occasion, but also the holidays! See something on the site but you don't want to have it shipped? eMail me at patrick@mysteryhousemagic.com and I will bring it to the meeting, or deliver it to you in the Central Florida area!
Keep Informed: Starting in 2009 we're going to begin booking our own shows. This is just a step ladder into offering booking services for local magicians! We may also be looking for great, new, and wonderful trick to add to our catalog!
Finally, havent seen anything you like? Let us know ashley@mysteryhousemagic.com Let us know what products YOU want to see on the site!
Thanks and best magical wishes!
Your friends at Mystery House Magic Co.
As Announced in the November Meeting, Mystery House Magic Company, owned and operated by Ashley Diller and Patrick is Now Open! Blood sweat and magic went into it but we made our Dec. 1st deadline! We're still cleaning up the site a little, fixing our catalog, and adding our links!
Friends, we couldn't have done it without you, and we would like to ask you a favor! If you would like to be included/advertised in our links site the PLEASE, send us a picture you want use, plus contact info, and just a little bit about you.
Come in now for our Grand Opening Special! ALL of our prices have been marked down by 35% off MSRP to celebrate, not only this joyous occasion, but also the holidays! See something on the site but you don't want to have it shipped? eMail me at patrick@mysteryhousemagic.com and I will bring it to the meeting, or deliver it to you in the Central Florida area!
Keep Informed: Starting in 2009 we're going to begin booking our own shows. This is just a step ladder into offering booking services for local magicians! We may also be looking for great, new, and wonderful trick to add to our catalog!
Finally, havent seen anything you like? Let us know ashley@mysteryhousemagic.com Let us know what products YOU want to see on the site!
Thanks and best magical wishes!
Your friends at Mystery House Magic Co.
2008-12 Annual Gift Exchange
Our December meeting will feature our annual gift exchange.
Please bring a wrapped magic trick that has a value from $15 - 20. We will exchange only with FAME members.
The meeting/party is open to guests and snacks will be provided. No need to bring food.
To top the evening off we would like people to perform after the gift exchange.
-- Jacki Manna
Entrepreneur
Ventriloquist / Magician / Face Painter / Balloon Twister
Please bring a wrapped magic trick that has a value from $15 - 20. We will exchange only with FAME members.
The meeting/party is open to guests and snacks will be provided. No need to bring food.
To top the evening off we would like people to perform after the gift exchange.
-- Jacki Manna
Entrepreneur
Ventriloquist / Magician / Face Painter / Balloon Twister
2008-12 Copperfield to visit Orlando
David Copperfield will be coming to Orlando for one night only last week in January at the Bob Carr.
Also...don't forget to check out the Florida Magic Assoc. web site at www.flmagic.org
Dan Stapleton
Also...don't forget to check out the Florida Magic Assoc. web site at www.flmagic.org
Dan Stapleton
2008-12 Ring 258 Lecture
Ring 258 will kick off its 2009 Lecture season with Steve Kissell
Thursday January 8th 2009 at the NY Cafe restaurant
Lecture will be from 7:15-9??
Please arrive early and eat first (that is our payment to the restaurant)
The lecture will feature magic comedy and closeup techniques plus clown routines. Steve will have 90 minutes to 2 hours to present Family Fun Shows. If time permits, he will do some material from Wacky Restaurant Routines as well.
Who is Steve Kissell?
Steve Kissell has been performing for 25 years at conventions, schools, churches, libraries, birthday and holiday parties. He also shares the performing arts of clowning, comedy magic, and storytelling. He is a co-producer of Circus Magic and is the director of Comedy Magic Workshop. "You are a great clown and so dedicated to the art of entertaining others for their enjoyment. May our roads cross again soon. Miles, Love and Laughter"Toby "Toby" Stokes Founder of Toby's Clown Foundation, Inc.
Previous convention presentations & performances: Magi-Fest; International Festival of Children's Magicians; Ipswich Magical Society - England; IBM ring Rome, Italy; Fellowship of Christian Magicians; Clown Camp; Clown Fest; Clowns of America International; Mountain Madness; Circus Magic; Kentucky Clown Derby; Arts in Ministry; Comedy College; North East Clown Convention; Mid-Atlantic Clown Convention; Kapital Klowns Workshop; Academy of Clown Arts; Southwest Regional & Southeast Clown Association; Phoenix Power & Light Conference; Puerto Rico Convention of Clowns; Laugh Makers; Fellowship of Christian Puppeteers; Entertainers Extravaganza; Clown City's January Jamboree; Clown in Illinois; Children's Ministry Conference; Florida State Magic Convention; Country Clown Jamboree; Joey to the World; Carolina Clown Capers; Comedy Magic Bash; Clown Town; Texas Clown Association; Minnesota Daze; Klown-o-Rama; Pittsburgh Performing Arts Ministries; Canada Clown Carnavale; Winter Carnivale of Magic, Comedy Magic Workshop; Clown Ministry College; Kidabra Convention; P.O.N.Y. convention; Public Speaking 101; Health & Humor Convention; Lost River Retreat; One Way Street Puppetry Fest.
Contact me Magic-Ian for additional info.
President elect Ring 258 Magic Ian
2008-12 Fred Moore in Malta
Read down in the article to see our own local talent.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20081113/local/disney-characters-coming-to-malta-in-january
Mark Fitzgerald
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20081113/local/disney-characters-coming-to-malta-in-january
Mark Fitzgerald
2008-12 Dennis' Deliberations
"The times they are-a-changin'" --Bob Dylan
The Masked Magician is again on network television (My-TV) with a weekly hour of exposures of magic methods produced by Val Valentino and Bruce Nash.So far, The Assistant’s Revenge, Palanquin, Giant Guillotine, The Twister and our own Charlie Justice’s “Prohibition”, Milk Can and many other classic effects have been exposed to the viewers. Just as last time, the same cynical, ridiculing announcer, Mitch Pileggi is doing the voice-over explanations and put-downs. These shows will be shown forever as reruns by content-starved lesser networks and eventually find their way onto You-Tube where they will have Eternal Life in cyberspace. My basic instinct says that these exposures will not destroy the competent magician, who is an entertainer, but may well doom the average “Joe the Magician” who merely goes on stage to demonstrate his latest mysterious box and believes that he is entertaining an audience.
Maybe it is time that we all wake up and smell the coffee? Sudden enlightenment seems lately to be happening in every walk of life! Alan Greenspan, the former Libertarian-Ayn Rand worshipper, just revealed in a Senate hearing that he now realizes that he has been wrong for the last 40 years and that unregulated free-market Capitalism is in his words, “a flawed model”! If Greenspan can become a Socialist, then I guess the foundations of the earth are shaking. The magic business is also quaking, but for different reasons.I am paraphrasing and enhancing a few ideas from young magician and cyberspace age devotee, Joshua Wilde: We all are part of a generation that is now able to find any piece of information it wants in about 60 seconds. We watch movies before they are released, we download computer programs for free, and many of us haven't bought a CD in years, yet our music collections rival what most radio stations', used to have a few years ago. If we want to know a "secret," it is about a six keystrokes away. Regarding magic, this is being viewed as a disturbing turn of events. There was a timewhen the methods were buried in...oh no...printed words! Thousands of words, arranged in thick, dusty books! Books made of real paper! But now, thosesecrets are floating in cyberspace, ripe for easy for effortless picking. Think about the You-Tube effect!
There will always be those who are magically curious, and there is one thing that can change that curiosity into a love of the magic art or distort it into a bitter attitude that rears its perverted head as a heckler many years later. That one thing is someone's first experience, up close, with a live magician. I'm convinced thata positive, enthusiastic regard for a sincerely interested person’s curiosity can lead them to a road of self-discovery through our shadowy art, either as an avid fan,or future performer.
I've had kids coming up to me after a show and name a few possible methods, as if they were challenging me. My reaction? I open up my metaphorical arms! I ask them if they've ever had the fun of actually performing the trick. They always say no. I then take a moment to honestly explainthat the real secret isn't the gimmick, it's the subtle psychology involved between the audience and magician. It is a living, breathing connection. I thenfool their pants off with good ol' sleight of hand, no gimmicks involved (usually the French Drop!). Their reaction? "How can I learn how to do that!" Every performer was at first an inexperienced secret-monger.
I am one of the few left who still loves books. I take part in the magical heresy of DVD's, as well, and I am also guilty of seeking out a videoperformance of a trick online in the hopes of gaining an idea of the method. But what are we talking about here? What are we doing that makes some feel the need to label this new generation of the magically-curious as a depressing dark pall on the face of magic?
I see this opinion not only in magic, but everywhere. Many industry leaders and corporate chairmen are almost as poetic in their complete and utter disregardfor the new climate of free information. I can't justify the spreading of knowledge as a bad thing. I'm a magician, I treasure the methods...butI also feel an inherent desire...a NEED...to throw the floodgates open and destroy all boundaries to knowledge. I'm talking knowledge, here...not secrets.
If it can be written down, it can NOT be kept a secret.
If it can be downloaded, it is certainly NOT a secret.
If I can whisper it into your eager ears, it is NOT a secret.
If I can watch a laughable performance of it on You-Tube, it is NOT a secret.
Please understand, I'm not interested in handing out the secrets of magic, because I know that can't be done. Ifyour magic relies only on a gimmick, and then you are fair game to have the Masked Magician on your trail.
A couple of kids came up to me at a recent show and expressed knowledge of some tricks. I really don't see technology creating more armchair magicians...they simply know more, which means the capacity to teach them the true secrets is even greater. The medium is there, so let's start flooding the currents with what we wish everyone had...respect for magic, an understanding of its history, and honor for those who perform it well. Embrace the new web of knowledge as a means for leaving bread crumbs that lead to that which used to be found solely in books. Use the new tools to teach and guide the curious towards productive paths, because the tools aren't going away.
There are bad carpenters, but it's not because of Bob Villa. There are bad painters, but it's not because of Bob Ross. And there are bad cold readers,but not because of Bob Nelson or Max Maven. As St. Augustine taught about Ontology, “Negativity”, like darkness, is not a thing unto itself, it is a lack of something. And what is lacking is the ability to bend when the winds of change turn into threatening gusts.
How can we bend? How do we weather this flood of knowledge in an Art that relies on secrets? By doing what we can do to spread our love for the Art,our love for those drawn to the Art, and our respect and help for those who are seeking blindly and making a mess of things.
Why are articles about the Art of Magic and the Theory of Awe mostly found in obscure trade journals? Those are the articles that need to be stolen! even better...read en masse. Jim Steinmeyer is one person who is making an effort to publish best-selling books on the art and theories of magic. Others should follow his lead. We can only change the world by changing the people, and the only way to change a person is to lead by example. Liveand share your passion; be a guiding light for the idly curious. Passion is contagious and can turn something idle into something living. Invite the curious to a magic club meeting.
How can we bend, so as not to break? By remembering that the real secret is unspoken, unwritten, and can only be lived in a moment of pure joy and awe. Inthat moment, no one cares about a gimmick, even if they know it exists. If someone trusts you to take them to that wonderful moment of magic, they willsuspend their disbelief and allow you to lead. That is why, as magicians, we are still enchanted by a master of the Art. We know the gimmick exists,but we trust them to awe us with the true magic...the creation of that timeless moment brought about by passion and trust.
As Joshua Wilde said “We are magicians...we are lying, cheating and thumb-palming our way to enlightenment. What better way to travel that path than with dignity, class and grace? Bend, so as not to break, and enjoy the ride. If you think things are crazy now, just wait...I think I hear the floodgates breaking!” Magic, as an art, needs a new paradigm. It began as an entertainment art in the mid to late 1800s as religious superstitions faded with the rise of literacy. The late Industrial Revolution provided enough time and money to support magic as commercial entertainment. Magic entertained because most people knew that the magician was not using the supernatural but was merely psychologically fooling them using tricks. Through the decline of vaudeville, the end of the big touring shows, the Great Depression, the incursion of television and the Internet, magic survived in one way or another. I believe it will survive but, as in all the events above, each time it did change and became a little different.
Be at the leading edge!
Dennis Phillips
The Masked Magician is again on network television (My-TV) with a weekly hour of exposures of magic methods produced by Val Valentino and Bruce Nash.So far, The Assistant’s Revenge, Palanquin, Giant Guillotine, The Twister and our own Charlie Justice’s “Prohibition”, Milk Can and many other classic effects have been exposed to the viewers. Just as last time, the same cynical, ridiculing announcer, Mitch Pileggi is doing the voice-over explanations and put-downs. These shows will be shown forever as reruns by content-starved lesser networks and eventually find their way onto You-Tube where they will have Eternal Life in cyberspace. My basic instinct says that these exposures will not destroy the competent magician, who is an entertainer, but may well doom the average “Joe the Magician” who merely goes on stage to demonstrate his latest mysterious box and believes that he is entertaining an audience.
Maybe it is time that we all wake up and smell the coffee? Sudden enlightenment seems lately to be happening in every walk of life! Alan Greenspan, the former Libertarian-Ayn Rand worshipper, just revealed in a Senate hearing that he now realizes that he has been wrong for the last 40 years and that unregulated free-market Capitalism is in his words, “a flawed model”! If Greenspan can become a Socialist, then I guess the foundations of the earth are shaking. The magic business is also quaking, but for different reasons.I am paraphrasing and enhancing a few ideas from young magician and cyberspace age devotee, Joshua Wilde: We all are part of a generation that is now able to find any piece of information it wants in about 60 seconds. We watch movies before they are released, we download computer programs for free, and many of us haven't bought a CD in years, yet our music collections rival what most radio stations', used to have a few years ago. If we want to know a "secret," it is about a six keystrokes away. Regarding magic, this is being viewed as a disturbing turn of events. There was a timewhen the methods were buried in...oh no...printed words! Thousands of words, arranged in thick, dusty books! Books made of real paper! But now, thosesecrets are floating in cyberspace, ripe for easy for effortless picking. Think about the You-Tube effect!
There will always be those who are magically curious, and there is one thing that can change that curiosity into a love of the magic art or distort it into a bitter attitude that rears its perverted head as a heckler many years later. That one thing is someone's first experience, up close, with a live magician. I'm convinced thata positive, enthusiastic regard for a sincerely interested person’s curiosity can lead them to a road of self-discovery through our shadowy art, either as an avid fan,or future performer.
I've had kids coming up to me after a show and name a few possible methods, as if they were challenging me. My reaction? I open up my metaphorical arms! I ask them if they've ever had the fun of actually performing the trick. They always say no. I then take a moment to honestly explainthat the real secret isn't the gimmick, it's the subtle psychology involved between the audience and magician. It is a living, breathing connection. I thenfool their pants off with good ol' sleight of hand, no gimmicks involved (usually the French Drop!). Their reaction? "How can I learn how to do that!" Every performer was at first an inexperienced secret-monger.
I am one of the few left who still loves books. I take part in the magical heresy of DVD's, as well, and I am also guilty of seeking out a videoperformance of a trick online in the hopes of gaining an idea of the method. But what are we talking about here? What are we doing that makes some feel the need to label this new generation of the magically-curious as a depressing dark pall on the face of magic?
I see this opinion not only in magic, but everywhere. Many industry leaders and corporate chairmen are almost as poetic in their complete and utter disregardfor the new climate of free information. I can't justify the spreading of knowledge as a bad thing. I'm a magician, I treasure the methods...butI also feel an inherent desire...a NEED...to throw the floodgates open and destroy all boundaries to knowledge. I'm talking knowledge, here...not secrets.
If it can be written down, it can NOT be kept a secret.
If it can be downloaded, it is certainly NOT a secret.
If I can whisper it into your eager ears, it is NOT a secret.
If I can watch a laughable performance of it on You-Tube, it is NOT a secret.
Please understand, I'm not interested in handing out the secrets of magic, because I know that can't be done. Ifyour magic relies only on a gimmick, and then you are fair game to have the Masked Magician on your trail.
A couple of kids came up to me at a recent show and expressed knowledge of some tricks. I really don't see technology creating more armchair magicians...they simply know more, which means the capacity to teach them the true secrets is even greater. The medium is there, so let's start flooding the currents with what we wish everyone had...respect for magic, an understanding of its history, and honor for those who perform it well. Embrace the new web of knowledge as a means for leaving bread crumbs that lead to that which used to be found solely in books. Use the new tools to teach and guide the curious towards productive paths, because the tools aren't going away.
There are bad carpenters, but it's not because of Bob Villa. There are bad painters, but it's not because of Bob Ross. And there are bad cold readers,but not because of Bob Nelson or Max Maven. As St. Augustine taught about Ontology, “Negativity”, like darkness, is not a thing unto itself, it is a lack of something. And what is lacking is the ability to bend when the winds of change turn into threatening gusts.
How can we bend? How do we weather this flood of knowledge in an Art that relies on secrets? By doing what we can do to spread our love for the Art,our love for those drawn to the Art, and our respect and help for those who are seeking blindly and making a mess of things.
Why are articles about the Art of Magic and the Theory of Awe mostly found in obscure trade journals? Those are the articles that need to be stolen! even better...read en masse. Jim Steinmeyer is one person who is making an effort to publish best-selling books on the art and theories of magic. Others should follow his lead. We can only change the world by changing the people, and the only way to change a person is to lead by example. Liveand share your passion; be a guiding light for the idly curious. Passion is contagious and can turn something idle into something living. Invite the curious to a magic club meeting.
How can we bend, so as not to break? By remembering that the real secret is unspoken, unwritten, and can only be lived in a moment of pure joy and awe. Inthat moment, no one cares about a gimmick, even if they know it exists. If someone trusts you to take them to that wonderful moment of magic, they willsuspend their disbelief and allow you to lead. That is why, as magicians, we are still enchanted by a master of the Art. We know the gimmick exists,but we trust them to awe us with the true magic...the creation of that timeless moment brought about by passion and trust.
As Joshua Wilde said “We are magicians...we are lying, cheating and thumb-palming our way to enlightenment. What better way to travel that path than with dignity, class and grace? Bend, so as not to break, and enjoy the ride. If you think things are crazy now, just wait...I think I hear the floodgates breaking!” Magic, as an art, needs a new paradigm. It began as an entertainment art in the mid to late 1800s as religious superstitions faded with the rise of literacy. The late Industrial Revolution provided enough time and money to support magic as commercial entertainment. Magic entertained because most people knew that the magician was not using the supernatural but was merely psychologically fooling them using tricks. Through the decline of vaudeville, the end of the big touring shows, the Great Depression, the incursion of television and the Internet, magic survived in one way or another. I believe it will survive but, as in all the events above, each time it did change and became a little different.
Be at the leading edge!
Dennis Phillips
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
2008-11 Famulus Newsletter - Ring 170
Newsletter of IBM Ring #170
The Bev Bergeron Ring
Next general meeting Wednesday, 11/19/2008 at 7:30 PM SHARP
Board meeting at 6:30 pm
Meeting theme: (belated) Election (or Political) Magic
The Elks Club Lodge #1079,
12 N. Primrose Dr., Orlando, Florida 32803
“The corner of Primrose Drive and Central Boulevard” (click for map)
Lunch meetings in the McDonalds on the north side of SandLake Rd between I-4 and International Drive near the rest rooms
Website: http://www.ring170.com/
F. A. M. E. is the Florida Association of Magical Entertainers
*************************************************************
Directory
Craig J. Fennessy – President – CraigFennessy@gmail.com
Chris Dunn- Vice President – Youngdunns@yahoo.com
Art Thomas – Treasurer – Art.Thomas@Disney.com
Dennis Philips- Secretary – Dennis@alliedcostumes.com
James Songster- Director at Large, - JjTjMagic@aol.com
Joe Vecciarelli- Sgt at Arms - talkingmute@tampabay.rr.com
Stefan Bartelski – Editor of “Famulus”- Famulus@illusioneer.com
*************************************************************
GET PUBLISHED!
Got an idea for an article to add to the next FAMULUS? Put it in the body of an email or in a Word document attached to an email. Send it to Famulus@illusioneer.com, and we will get you in print.
Please, please, please, use the above e-mail address, your messages are in danger of getting lost if you do not do so.
The Bev Bergeron Ring
Next general meeting Wednesday, 11/19/2008 at 7:30 PM SHARP
Board meeting at 6:30 pm
Meeting theme: (belated) Election (or Political) Magic
The Elks Club Lodge #1079,
12 N. Primrose Dr., Orlando, Florida 32803
“The corner of Primrose Drive and Central Boulevard” (click for map)
Lunch meetings in the McDonalds on the north side of SandLake Rd between I-4 and International Drive near the rest rooms
Website: http://www.ring170.com/
F. A. M. E. is the Florida Association of Magical Entertainers
*************************************************************
Directory
Craig J. Fennessy – President – CraigFennessy@gmail.com
Chris Dunn- Vice President – Youngdunns@yahoo.com
Art Thomas – Treasurer – Art.Thomas@Disney.com
Dennis Philips- Secretary – Dennis@alliedcostumes.com
James Songster- Director at Large, - JjTjMagic@aol.com
Joe Vecciarelli- Sgt at Arms - talkingmute@tampabay.rr.com
Stefan Bartelski – Editor of “Famulus”- Famulus@illusioneer.com
*************************************************************
GET PUBLISHED!
Got an idea for an article to add to the next FAMULUS? Put it in the body of an email or in a Word document attached to an email. Send it to Famulus@illusioneer.com, and we will get you in print.
Please, please, please, use the above e-mail address, your messages are in danger of getting lost if you do not do so.
2008-11 Famulus Newsletter - Ring 170
Our October Ring meeting was at our new meeting location, The Elks Club at the corner of Primrose and Central, just east of downtown Orlando. The hall is ideal. We have a great stage, comfortable chairs, access to a reasonable buffet dinner before the meeting and a bar. President Craig Fennessy opened the shortened business meeting. There is a lot of magic activity in the next few months. Check our ring website to keep you informed. Craig informed the membership that next month is the nominating meeting for the election of club officers for next year. He encouraged members to consider serving the club in an elective office. Our club leadership welcomes new board members.
The rest of the meeting was devoted to a unique and powerful lecture by Fred Moore. Fred came to Orlando several decades ago from Ohio and developed into a top-notch professional act. A recent addition to his act and to his life is his wife, Adina. The couple is leaving soon for an extended European tour with their magic act. She is originally from Eastern Europe. Fred brought a wealth of knowledge gathered from years of working in all types of venues.
His lecture included not only a half-dozen of his original effects but detailed explanations of his advertising techniques, his business secrets for working with agents as well as his thoughts on music in his act. Fred makes excellent use of the popular remote controlled “Wireless Wizardry” device that many magicians use. With a remote control button he can provide drum-rolls, musical fanfares and engaging music for his act.
Fred opened with a coin routine that resembled a classic billiard ball routine. It was done to a lively musical score. His handling was skillful and exciting. After he concluded, he explained how the music matched his moves and enhanced the effects rather than just being a background sound. The drive toward excellence was a theme that Fred used for the rest of his lecture. He continued with an audience participation effect where a card was selected and returned to the middle of the deck. He then burned a hole in the card, while inside the deck, using a laser pointer. He revealed the selected scorched card with a large hole in it.
He followed with a short discussion on how important it is for any magician to be able to create an alternate act from any Wal-Mart in event their props are lost by the airlines. As an example he did a clever book test using 3 unprepared books. The method was ingenious and different and in many ways superior to the classic David Hoy method. Returning to performing excellence, Fred let us in or the secrets on how to smoothly bring up an audience member and handle a volunteer on stage.
Next was another clever card effect. Fred had a card selected and returned to the deck. It was the two of diamonds. After some by-play he attempts to find the card and the he flipped out of the deck the four of diamonds. The audience laughed at his apparent mistake but he had the last laugh. He twirled the card and the four diamond pips were in a circular arrangement! He then peeled off two of them and the card became the selected two of diamonds! Fred gave all the details on how he accomplished the trick and explained how to make it.
He did his version of the classic dollar bill switch with no thumb tip. He changed a real dollar bill into a fake play money bill and then turned the fake bill folded bill upside down and dumped out 4 real quarters. This was effect that is ideal for restaurant walk around magic.
Fred gave several examples of how his promotional materials have evolved from his early days. Early in his career he first used printed materials but he has now evolved to the point where today he uses only web sites and You Tube videos to distribute demonstration videos of his act. He even has alternate “agent friendly” websites where an agent can refer clients to see his act without the client being able to contact him directly. These insights into Fred’s business methods are priceless.
He did a hilarious kid’s routine that involved vanishing a small yellow silk (using a thumb tip) and making it appear in a bag, then in his sock, another finally the guy’s sleeve…This children’s routine, developed during Fred’s cruise ship years, is a simple way to keep the kids screaming and having fun.
He concluded his lecture with a card routine called “Voices in the Head” and to the delight of many he had the recorded CD track for sale. His audio player had a pre-recorded wizard’s voice. Fred responded to the comedic recorded dialog. The “Wizard” on the audio player reveals a card after lots of funny by play. If you get an opportunity see the Fred Moore lecture, take it. His professional insights are remarkable.
Good things are always happening in Ring 170.
Dennis Phillips
The rest of the meeting was devoted to a unique and powerful lecture by Fred Moore. Fred came to Orlando several decades ago from Ohio and developed into a top-notch professional act. A recent addition to his act and to his life is his wife, Adina. The couple is leaving soon for an extended European tour with their magic act. She is originally from Eastern Europe. Fred brought a wealth of knowledge gathered from years of working in all types of venues.
His lecture included not only a half-dozen of his original effects but detailed explanations of his advertising techniques, his business secrets for working with agents as well as his thoughts on music in his act. Fred makes excellent use of the popular remote controlled “Wireless Wizardry” device that many magicians use. With a remote control button he can provide drum-rolls, musical fanfares and engaging music for his act.
Fred opened with a coin routine that resembled a classic billiard ball routine. It was done to a lively musical score. His handling was skillful and exciting. After he concluded, he explained how the music matched his moves and enhanced the effects rather than just being a background sound. The drive toward excellence was a theme that Fred used for the rest of his lecture. He continued with an audience participation effect where a card was selected and returned to the middle of the deck. He then burned a hole in the card, while inside the deck, using a laser pointer. He revealed the selected scorched card with a large hole in it.
He followed with a short discussion on how important it is for any magician to be able to create an alternate act from any Wal-Mart in event their props are lost by the airlines. As an example he did a clever book test using 3 unprepared books. The method was ingenious and different and in many ways superior to the classic David Hoy method. Returning to performing excellence, Fred let us in or the secrets on how to smoothly bring up an audience member and handle a volunteer on stage.
Next was another clever card effect. Fred had a card selected and returned to the deck. It was the two of diamonds. After some by-play he attempts to find the card and the he flipped out of the deck the four of diamonds. The audience laughed at his apparent mistake but he had the last laugh. He twirled the card and the four diamond pips were in a circular arrangement! He then peeled off two of them and the card became the selected two of diamonds! Fred gave all the details on how he accomplished the trick and explained how to make it.
He did his version of the classic dollar bill switch with no thumb tip. He changed a real dollar bill into a fake play money bill and then turned the fake bill folded bill upside down and dumped out 4 real quarters. This was effect that is ideal for restaurant walk around magic.
Fred gave several examples of how his promotional materials have evolved from his early days. Early in his career he first used printed materials but he has now evolved to the point where today he uses only web sites and You Tube videos to distribute demonstration videos of his act. He even has alternate “agent friendly” websites where an agent can refer clients to see his act without the client being able to contact him directly. These insights into Fred’s business methods are priceless.
He did a hilarious kid’s routine that involved vanishing a small yellow silk (using a thumb tip) and making it appear in a bag, then in his sock, another finally the guy’s sleeve…This children’s routine, developed during Fred’s cruise ship years, is a simple way to keep the kids screaming and having fun.
He concluded his lecture with a card routine called “Voices in the Head” and to the delight of many he had the recorded CD track for sale. His audio player had a pre-recorded wizard’s voice. Fred responded to the comedic recorded dialog. The “Wizard” on the audio player reveals a card after lots of funny by play. If you get an opportunity see the Fred Moore lecture, take it. His professional insights are remarkable.
Good things are always happening in Ring 170.
Dennis Phillips
2008-11 From the Editor
Welcome to this month's newsletter, I just wish for all of us that the economic news was better. It is obvious that hard times will fall upon the entertainment industry, so there may be slim pickings this holiday season for our professional members. I heard that Disney has cancelled all their staff Christmas parties. While they do not usually use external entertainers, their decision is perhaps a sample of what other companies are doing too.
We can but hope that the promises of our new president turn out to be more than just political rhetoric. Even then, it will take time until things improve. Maybe magic will help us escape the day to day issues.
Thanks to all our contributers. I was disappointed that none of the ring's attendees have sent a review, perhaps one will appear in time for the December newsletter [hint, hint].
Have a magical month
Your editor
Stefan
We can but hope that the promises of our new president turn out to be more than just political rhetoric. Even then, it will take time until things improve. Maybe magic will help us escape the day to day issues.
Thanks to all our contributers. I was disappointed that none of the ring's attendees have sent a review, perhaps one will appear in time for the December newsletter [hint, hint].
Have a magical month
Your editor
Stefan
2008-11 FMA Officers
Greetings,
the Florida Magicians Association held its meeting this Sunday, November 9, 2008.
The following were elected to serve as FMA officers for 2008-2009:
President: Dan Stapleton
Vice President: Jeff Silver
Secretary/Treasurer: Robert Schvey
Web-maintenance: Simone Marron
Congratulations to the new officers. We look forward to continued growth by the FMA.
Keep a dream in the making, for you create your tomorrows by what you dream today.
Maria Ibâñez
the Florida Magicians Association held its meeting this Sunday, November 9, 2008.
The following were elected to serve as FMA officers for 2008-2009:
President: Dan Stapleton
Vice President: Jeff Silver
Secretary/Treasurer: Robert Schvey
Web-maintenance: Simone Marron
Congratulations to the new officers. We look forward to continued growth by the FMA.
Keep a dream in the making, for you create your tomorrows by what you dream today.
Maria Ibâñez
2008-11 Christmas Exchange
Jackie Manna is organizing the Christmas Gift Exchange at our December meeting again. Full details will follow in a seperate newsletter mailing, but start wrapping and keep the date free.
Stefan
Stefan
2008-11 Upcoming events
For those of that are interested here is a list of up coming events on non meeting nights that may interest you...
1. Billy DamonBalloon get together, November 13th, at 2493 McMichael Rd, St Cloud Fl34771.
Seating islimited.....E-mail: Bdamon@Embarqmail.com
2. Dan Stapleton –Teach-in at Chris Dunn’s house, November 17th., 7pm at 1112 Druid Rd.Maitland, Fl 32751.... Seating is limited,
E-mail reservation to: Youngdunns@yahoo.com $10.00 per person
3. Aldo Colombini –Teach-in at Chris Dunn’s house December 11th, 7pm,at 112 Druid Rd. Maitland,Fl 32751.... Seating is limited,
E-mail reservation to: Youngdunns@yahoo.com $30.00 per person
Just want to let you all know what was happening in the next couple of months. Hope to see you at some of these functions.
Craig Fennessy
1. Billy DamonBalloon get together, November 13th, at 2493 McMichael Rd, St Cloud Fl34771.
Seating islimited.....E-mail: Bdamon@Embarqmail.com
2. Dan Stapleton –Teach-in at Chris Dunn’s house, November 17th., 7pm at 1112 Druid Rd.Maitland, Fl 32751.... Seating is limited,
E-mail reservation to: Youngdunns@yahoo.com $10.00 per person
3. Aldo Colombini –Teach-in at Chris Dunn’s house December 11th, 7pm,at 112 Druid Rd. Maitland,Fl 32751.... Seating is limited,
E-mail reservation to: Youngdunns@yahoo.com $30.00 per person
Just want to let you all know what was happening in the next couple of months. Hope to see you at some of these functions.
Craig Fennessy
2008-11 Request for recording
Did anyone tape the Masked Magician show from November 3rd?
Dan Stapleton
[editor's note: Did you try YouTube?]
Dan Stapleton
[editor's note: Did you try YouTube?]
2008-11 Houdini Movies
from Dan Stapleton:
For those "Hollywood" Houdini fans, two new wonderful movies involving Houdini.
If you enjoyed The Illusionist then you will enjoy these.
For those "Hollywood" Houdini fans, two new wonderful movies involving Houdini.
- Fairy Tale: A True Story (1997) Harvey Keitel plays Houdini.
- Death Defying Acts (2007)starring Catherine Zetta Jones as famous Boston psychic "Margery" and Guy Pierce as Houdini.
If you enjoyed The Illusionist then you will enjoy these.
2008-11 Info about our nearby ring 258
Nominations and elections took place in Leesburg Ring 258. Our new officers are: President – “Magic Ian” Sutz, Vice President - Greg Solomon, Secretary – Roger “Foo” Reid and Treasurer – George Smallwood. Last year we had 4 lectures, and monthly members nights where members performed. We intend to keep up that activity, plus our April show at the Villages. We will also continue to support ring 170 lectures by subsidizing the lecture cost to our members. We had a 7 act show at Hawthorne and sold out. We were asked to make this a regular event. Our club probably earned half the admission and will donate portions to Boggy Creek, and Lake/Sumter hospice. You can check out our monthly minutes at www.ring258.blogspot.com
Our ring will have our Holiday Party & Gift Exchange and take place on Saturday evening, December 27th, at Royal Highlands, beginning at 6:00 PM. $20 admission includes dinner and is open to Ring 170 members.
Tom Craven (in February) is one of several lecturers scheduled next year, we will honor ring 170 member prices for our lectures.
Member Tom Golabek just placed his DVD clip on Youtube on Poker Chip and card Flourishes, check out his DVD at www.pokerchipDVD.com
Magic Ian will be releasing a series of magic DVD's in January and February and they will be in shops shortly after. Also, a re-release of his double match pull. http://matchpull.blogspot.com/
-Ian
Our ring will have our Holiday Party & Gift Exchange and take place on Saturday evening, December 27th, at Royal Highlands, beginning at 6:00 PM. $20 admission includes dinner and is open to Ring 170 members.
Tom Craven (in February) is one of several lecturers scheduled next year, we will honor ring 170 member prices for our lectures.
Member Tom Golabek just placed his DVD clip on Youtube on Poker Chip and card Flourishes, check out his DVD at www.pokerchipDVD.com
Magic Ian will be releasing a series of magic DVD's in January and February and they will be in shops shortly after. Also, a re-release of his double match pull. http://matchpull.blogspot.com/
-Ian
2008-11 Jeff Hobson Info (belated)
For those of you that missed the recent lecture...some info about what you missed:
His television appearances include HBO, Showtime's Comedy Club Network, Fox Family's Masters of Illusion, NBC's World's Greatest Magic as well as the star of Thames Television's Magic Comedy Strip a 16 week television series in England. Hobson introduction to Las Vegas started with an audition at the famed comedy club, Catch a Rising Star at Bally's Casino. This audition turned into numerous return, headline engagements. In 1993, Hobson joined the cast of Spellbound at Harrah's Casino. This run lasted over four years.
After a three-year hiatus that took Hobson to Reno to produce and star in the critically-acclaimed magic production show called, Carnival of Wonders, he came back home to become the "Host of Las Vegas". Since then, he has starred in his own, one-man show, Money and Madness and been the Master of Ceremonies for countless special events and production shows including the World's Greatest Magic Show ,V-The Ultimate Variety Show and, currently, The Little Legends Show.
An interview from “Everything Las Vegas”
JEFF HOBSON `THE HILARIOUS HOST OF LAS VEGAS’ PLAYS `V’ NIGHTLY.
Comedy/magician Jeff Hobson who likes to be known as “The Hilarious Host of Las Vegas” is no ordinary performer but has the ability to take a series of world-class acts and make them into an A+ show in “V – The Ultimate Variety Show” in the V Theatre at the Aladdin’s Desert Passage.
The unpretentious Detroit native began learning magic at age seven when a magician who was a police officer used magic to teach safety with red, yellow and green balls representing a traffic light. He was impressed. That’s when he knew what career path he wanted to take in life. Even though he’s one of the best watch thieves you will ever witness his most entertaining talent is hosting “V” with his comical barbs and lightning tongue. Jeff’s honed his act like a star with a little bit of the late Paul Lynde and the fancy clothes a la Liberace.
On Sept. 21, Jeff is heading to the United Kingdom for five days to perform at The International Brotherhood of Magicians. The society has 20,000-25,000 members worldwide. We’re expecting 1,000-1,200 to attend. The show is called “WOW!’ in London’s West End on Sept. 24th. It’s a benefit performance for the London subway bombing victims.
Jeff said, “I was born on March 23, 1962. I graduated from Lutheran High East in Harper Woods, Michigan. I was the class clown and did all those impressions of Richard Nixon and so forth. At age 17, I was making more money than my father was working full-time. I was doing shows so I didn’t have to go to college. He was a tool-and-die maker and made a decent wage. I had a teacher offer to pay my way through college but turned it down.”
Jeff Hobson has opened for some big headliners as follows: Lee Greenwood, Barbara Mandrel, Louise Mandrel, Phyllis Diller, David Sanborn, Steve Allen and Roy Clark and many more.
Jeff says, “Comedy is a heck of a lot harder then law school. I get people to participate on-stage. It’s one of the biggest fears in the world to audience members but they end up having fun and always remember it and will talk about it for life. I love the challenge and especially like the people who don’t speak English. I’m visual so they understand what I do and say.”
His television appearances include HBO, Showtime's Comedy Club Network, Fox Family's Masters of Illusion, NBC's World's Greatest Magic as well as the star of Thames Television's Magic Comedy Strip a 16 week television series in England. Hobson introduction to Las Vegas started with an audition at the famed comedy club, Catch a Rising Star at Bally's Casino. This audition turned into numerous return, headline engagements. In 1993, Hobson joined the cast of Spellbound at Harrah's Casino. This run lasted over four years.
After a three-year hiatus that took Hobson to Reno to produce and star in the critically-acclaimed magic production show called, Carnival of Wonders, he came back home to become the "Host of Las Vegas". Since then, he has starred in his own, one-man show, Money and Madness and been the Master of Ceremonies for countless special events and production shows including the World's Greatest Magic Show ,V-The Ultimate Variety Show and, currently, The Little Legends Show.
An interview from “Everything Las Vegas”
JEFF HOBSON `THE HILARIOUS HOST OF LAS VEGAS’ PLAYS `V’ NIGHTLY.
Comedy/magician Jeff Hobson who likes to be known as “The Hilarious Host of Las Vegas” is no ordinary performer but has the ability to take a series of world-class acts and make them into an A+ show in “V – The Ultimate Variety Show” in the V Theatre at the Aladdin’s Desert Passage.
The unpretentious Detroit native began learning magic at age seven when a magician who was a police officer used magic to teach safety with red, yellow and green balls representing a traffic light. He was impressed. That’s when he knew what career path he wanted to take in life. Even though he’s one of the best watch thieves you will ever witness his most entertaining talent is hosting “V” with his comical barbs and lightning tongue. Jeff’s honed his act like a star with a little bit of the late Paul Lynde and the fancy clothes a la Liberace.
On Sept. 21, Jeff is heading to the United Kingdom for five days to perform at The International Brotherhood of Magicians. The society has 20,000-25,000 members worldwide. We’re expecting 1,000-1,200 to attend. The show is called “WOW!’ in London’s West End on Sept. 24th. It’s a benefit performance for the London subway bombing victims.
Jeff said, “I was born on March 23, 1962. I graduated from Lutheran High East in Harper Woods, Michigan. I was the class clown and did all those impressions of Richard Nixon and so forth. At age 17, I was making more money than my father was working full-time. I was doing shows so I didn’t have to go to college. He was a tool-and-die maker and made a decent wage. I had a teacher offer to pay my way through college but turned it down.”
Jeff Hobson has opened for some big headliners as follows: Lee Greenwood, Barbara Mandrel, Louise Mandrel, Phyllis Diller, David Sanborn, Steve Allen and Roy Clark and many more.
Jeff says, “Comedy is a heck of a lot harder then law school. I get people to participate on-stage. It’s one of the biggest fears in the world to audience members but they end up having fun and always remember it and will talk about it for life. I love the challenge and especially like the people who don’t speak English. I’m visual so they understand what I do and say.”
2008-11 Dennis' Deliberations
“and so it goes.”
- from Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut -
I have known a number of strange failed magicians in my five decades of being around this art. Each story is very sad. Periodically I will try to chronicle some of these people and their lost dreams of making it to the “big time” in magic. This month I will feature two from the 70s and early 80s. Perhaps these examples will explain why my wife, Cindy, is not too warm to all of the people I know who are into magic. We have had sad and tragic encounters with magicians during our 36 years of marriage.
His stage name was his last name, Booker, spelled backwards (“Rekoob”). He called himself “Rekoob the Magnificent”.
Booker was a locksmith in the Southern town where I was employed on local TV in the early 70s. He was one of the best locksmiths in the business with 15 employees, a fleet of step-vans and contracts with all the major businesses, but he had a passion for magic and illusions. His locksmith business provided him with a fabulous income. But the drive to be a touring magician drove him crazy. He sold his profitable business to go into magic “fulltime”. He spent many thousands of dollars trying to get into magic fulltime.
Sadly he was a real Redneck…Horrible Southern twang in his language, high raspy voice, zero originality. He was as they said about the Hapsburg Dynasty in Europe in the late 1800s, “He never learned anything and he never forgot anything!”
His major talent was that he could sling the bull to a client and buyer when he was selling a show (“people pass out when I do my Cremation!”) He bugged the snot out of me, when I lived in his town, wanting to be on my local TV show and have me promote him over the air.
He divorced his first wife. Although she got a sizable portion of the proceeds from his locksmith business, it was probably a good move if he wanted a stage assistant. She looked like Rosanne Barr on a bad hair-day.
He married some really young bone-thin woman. Mack was late 40s; she was in her late 20s. They had 2 kids in a row. She had no figure and an overbite that would have been an orthodontist’s challenge and joy to fix. She looked like something someone had just dragged out of the Carolina backwoods.
Booker did a few fairs (much like Harry Albacker) and finally ended up losing everything he had in life except his ancient Concord Motor home and a small utility trailer with magic props.
He traveled with his wife and 2 young kids doing Polaroid photos and a little magic (“Your picture with the bunny!). They mostly appeared in the old JM Fields discount stores and K-Marts. The stores just gave him a small space near the entrance and whatever he could clear from the photos was his income. Sometimes 4 photos sold was a good day.
Anyway… he traced me down to Orlando after I moved here in the fall of 1975 (drat you Phil Morris for telling him!)
In December of 1975 he parked his motor home in front of the house I rented on Harmon Avenue in Winter Park. It backed right up to Interstate-4. Car noise was horrible! Vaarrrooom! It was solid 24 hours a day, but it only cost us $250 a month to rent back then.
He and his wife and kids sort of moved onto our lot. Most of the days they would drive over to the old JM Fields at the corner of Lee Road and 17-92 to do magic and photos. The pickings were slim because Orlando was in a housing collapse and local depression in 1975 following the initial Disney build-out and the gas shortages. In the evening they were back in front of my house, with their motor home, for the night.
To this day, Cindy detests “Dinty Moore” stew because at night they would eat with us and every other night we all had stew and rice. I think a few times we had Hamburger Helper with precious little hamburger and lots of off-brand cheese macaroni. (Cindy bought all of this, of course) After a week of running an extension cord and water hose to the motor home, his dump tank filled and he could never figure out a way to tap into my home sewer clean-out plug so he moved on. He tried dumping a couple of times leaving a pool of human feces in my front yard.
Evening conversations were filled with a half pack of Camels and grandiose dreams of big illusion shows and going to Broadway. Promptly at 9PM the Corby’s Whiskey came out. All the frustration would then be liberated and the pent up anger and rage would spill over into an hour tirade about how the world had screwed him and what a great illusionist he was. I vividly recall him sucking on a cigarette that he had stuck in a front missing tooth. He could smoke almost an entire cigarette with no hands. His props were mostly Abbott’s illusions that he had he picked up from other dreamers whose dreams had faded away into disillusionment.
Mack died a few years later…Phil said it was heart trouble. It may have been. My guess would be that years of drinking had corroded away his liver and his lungs were worn out from chain smoking. He ended up leaving his Abbott’s Cremation in my driveway because the utility trailer he was towing had sprung a leak and it was ruining his props. The Cremation was the only prop left where the plywood had not warped. It was the same Cremation Illusion that I used in the 1976 Lake Eola Halloween Show that Dan Stapleton produced!
A few months later in early 1976 a young, thin, clean-cut preacher’s-kid, JD, whose father was a rabid snot-slinging Fundamentalist preacher in Kissimmee stopped into the shop. At first, he vaguely reminded me of a short-haired preppy version of Doug Henning.
JD was into Gospel magic. He worshipped Andre Kole. He dreamed of being a Gospel magician-illusionist. He left shortly after that to go to a Bible College in Kentucky to major in ministry. He got through college but fell into booze even though drinking was absolutely forbidden by any of the students. He told me that he had never tasted alcohol in any form until he was away at the Bible School. He was off campus and sneaked a drink. He said he was addicted after one drink. He had finally found something that made him feel good. I often wonder if he had just transferred his fundamentalist religious addiction to another cult based on alcohol and sex.
After he graduated, with a degree in Christian Ministry and an internship as a Youth pastor, he could not make enough money to live so he soon ended up working as an Emcee in topless bars in Northern Kentucky. Once in a drunken stupor he told me that he had a “ministry:” to the people that worked in bars. His rationalization was
“Jesus made wine and they said he was a drunkard. Jesus was also friends with prostitutes!” He followed up each statement by rattling off a list of Bible verses to prove his point. His pious family disowned him but he returned to Orlando and worked in my costume shop for a few months at Halloween before going to work as a DJ at one of the South Orange Blossom Trail Topless Dancer Clubs.
Since every Fundamentalist church insisted he “get rid of his sins” before they would help him, he had no close connection to any religious group, so I tried to get him into AA and for a month or two he attended their meetings. I was the only church-going friend that he had. Being from a Fundamentalist background he could never accept my mainstream Christian approach as being valid. I remember him being stinking drunk-as-a-skunk and still trying to convert me over to his Fundamentalism. He booked a few Gospel magic shows in distant churches, with preachers who did not know him well, and kept his dream alive that he would be a big-named Fundamentalist Gospel illusionist one day. I hired him and his girlfriend (a biker chick turned topless dancer) a few times on some of my magic road-tours. She frequently confided her own demons to my wife Cindy.
The Flying Carpet Illusion that I own today was a gift from him for picking him up from jail after a DUI arrest.
He permanently lost his driver’s license after a couple more DUIs. He was forced to use the bus system. He married his biker chick girlfriend when she told him that she was pregnant. Her ex-husband came by and beat the tar out of him when he found out that his ex-wife was expecting. She divorced JD shortly after the baby was born. He emotionally went downhill and died of acute alcohol poisoning at far too young an age… One day, a short time later, I pulled up into my driveway at my house in Audubon Park and pieces of old illusions were littering my carport. I knew whose they were but I had no idea how they got there.
His widow had gone back to her ex-husband and they both wanted to get rid of all the memories of JD so for some reason they did not just trash his props but loaded them in the back of his mud truck and dumped them in my carport! Maybe it was her final statement to me; maybe it was a gesture of thanks to Cindy and me for helping them, or maybe she just wanted Cindy’s attention. She did call up Cindy a short time later to explain that her baby was not JD’s but her ex-husband’s. She provided explicit details as why that was the fact. She told Cindy that she wanted to set the record straight with the only friends that JD had that were left on earth. I walked into the kitchen just as that phone call was ending. Cindy turned, clutched me and buried her face in my chest and sobbed like a baby.
Dennis Phillips
- from Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut -
I have known a number of strange failed magicians in my five decades of being around this art. Each story is very sad. Periodically I will try to chronicle some of these people and their lost dreams of making it to the “big time” in magic. This month I will feature two from the 70s and early 80s. Perhaps these examples will explain why my wife, Cindy, is not too warm to all of the people I know who are into magic. We have had sad and tragic encounters with magicians during our 36 years of marriage.
His stage name was his last name, Booker, spelled backwards (“Rekoob”). He called himself “Rekoob the Magnificent”.
Booker was a locksmith in the Southern town where I was employed on local TV in the early 70s. He was one of the best locksmiths in the business with 15 employees, a fleet of step-vans and contracts with all the major businesses, but he had a passion for magic and illusions. His locksmith business provided him with a fabulous income. But the drive to be a touring magician drove him crazy. He sold his profitable business to go into magic “fulltime”. He spent many thousands of dollars trying to get into magic fulltime.
Sadly he was a real Redneck…Horrible Southern twang in his language, high raspy voice, zero originality. He was as they said about the Hapsburg Dynasty in Europe in the late 1800s, “He never learned anything and he never forgot anything!”
His major talent was that he could sling the bull to a client and buyer when he was selling a show (“people pass out when I do my Cremation!”) He bugged the snot out of me, when I lived in his town, wanting to be on my local TV show and have me promote him over the air.
He divorced his first wife. Although she got a sizable portion of the proceeds from his locksmith business, it was probably a good move if he wanted a stage assistant. She looked like Rosanne Barr on a bad hair-day.
He married some really young bone-thin woman. Mack was late 40s; she was in her late 20s. They had 2 kids in a row. She had no figure and an overbite that would have been an orthodontist’s challenge and joy to fix. She looked like something someone had just dragged out of the Carolina backwoods.
Booker did a few fairs (much like Harry Albacker) and finally ended up losing everything he had in life except his ancient Concord Motor home and a small utility trailer with magic props.
He traveled with his wife and 2 young kids doing Polaroid photos and a little magic (“Your picture with the bunny!). They mostly appeared in the old JM Fields discount stores and K-Marts. The stores just gave him a small space near the entrance and whatever he could clear from the photos was his income. Sometimes 4 photos sold was a good day.
Anyway… he traced me down to Orlando after I moved here in the fall of 1975 (drat you Phil Morris for telling him!)
In December of 1975 he parked his motor home in front of the house I rented on Harmon Avenue in Winter Park. It backed right up to Interstate-4. Car noise was horrible! Vaarrrooom! It was solid 24 hours a day, but it only cost us $250 a month to rent back then.
He and his wife and kids sort of moved onto our lot. Most of the days they would drive over to the old JM Fields at the corner of Lee Road and 17-92 to do magic and photos. The pickings were slim because Orlando was in a housing collapse and local depression in 1975 following the initial Disney build-out and the gas shortages. In the evening they were back in front of my house, with their motor home, for the night.
To this day, Cindy detests “Dinty Moore” stew because at night they would eat with us and every other night we all had stew and rice. I think a few times we had Hamburger Helper with precious little hamburger and lots of off-brand cheese macaroni. (Cindy bought all of this, of course) After a week of running an extension cord and water hose to the motor home, his dump tank filled and he could never figure out a way to tap into my home sewer clean-out plug so he moved on. He tried dumping a couple of times leaving a pool of human feces in my front yard.
Evening conversations were filled with a half pack of Camels and grandiose dreams of big illusion shows and going to Broadway. Promptly at 9PM the Corby’s Whiskey came out. All the frustration would then be liberated and the pent up anger and rage would spill over into an hour tirade about how the world had screwed him and what a great illusionist he was. I vividly recall him sucking on a cigarette that he had stuck in a front missing tooth. He could smoke almost an entire cigarette with no hands. His props were mostly Abbott’s illusions that he had he picked up from other dreamers whose dreams had faded away into disillusionment.
Mack died a few years later…Phil said it was heart trouble. It may have been. My guess would be that years of drinking had corroded away his liver and his lungs were worn out from chain smoking. He ended up leaving his Abbott’s Cremation in my driveway because the utility trailer he was towing had sprung a leak and it was ruining his props. The Cremation was the only prop left where the plywood had not warped. It was the same Cremation Illusion that I used in the 1976 Lake Eola Halloween Show that Dan Stapleton produced!
A few months later in early 1976 a young, thin, clean-cut preacher’s-kid, JD, whose father was a rabid snot-slinging Fundamentalist preacher in Kissimmee stopped into the shop. At first, he vaguely reminded me of a short-haired preppy version of Doug Henning.
JD was into Gospel magic. He worshipped Andre Kole. He dreamed of being a Gospel magician-illusionist. He left shortly after that to go to a Bible College in Kentucky to major in ministry. He got through college but fell into booze even though drinking was absolutely forbidden by any of the students. He told me that he had never tasted alcohol in any form until he was away at the Bible School. He was off campus and sneaked a drink. He said he was addicted after one drink. He had finally found something that made him feel good. I often wonder if he had just transferred his fundamentalist religious addiction to another cult based on alcohol and sex.
After he graduated, with a degree in Christian Ministry and an internship as a Youth pastor, he could not make enough money to live so he soon ended up working as an Emcee in topless bars in Northern Kentucky. Once in a drunken stupor he told me that he had a “ministry:” to the people that worked in bars. His rationalization was
“Jesus made wine and they said he was a drunkard. Jesus was also friends with prostitutes!” He followed up each statement by rattling off a list of Bible verses to prove his point. His pious family disowned him but he returned to Orlando and worked in my costume shop for a few months at Halloween before going to work as a DJ at one of the South Orange Blossom Trail Topless Dancer Clubs.
Since every Fundamentalist church insisted he “get rid of his sins” before they would help him, he had no close connection to any religious group, so I tried to get him into AA and for a month or two he attended their meetings. I was the only church-going friend that he had. Being from a Fundamentalist background he could never accept my mainstream Christian approach as being valid. I remember him being stinking drunk-as-a-skunk and still trying to convert me over to his Fundamentalism. He booked a few Gospel magic shows in distant churches, with preachers who did not know him well, and kept his dream alive that he would be a big-named Fundamentalist Gospel illusionist one day. I hired him and his girlfriend (a biker chick turned topless dancer) a few times on some of my magic road-tours. She frequently confided her own demons to my wife Cindy.
The Flying Carpet Illusion that I own today was a gift from him for picking him up from jail after a DUI arrest.
He permanently lost his driver’s license after a couple more DUIs. He was forced to use the bus system. He married his biker chick girlfriend when she told him that she was pregnant. Her ex-husband came by and beat the tar out of him when he found out that his ex-wife was expecting. She divorced JD shortly after the baby was born. He emotionally went downhill and died of acute alcohol poisoning at far too young an age… One day, a short time later, I pulled up into my driveway at my house in Audubon Park and pieces of old illusions were littering my carport. I knew whose they were but I had no idea how they got there.
His widow had gone back to her ex-husband and they both wanted to get rid of all the memories of JD so for some reason they did not just trash his props but loaded them in the back of his mud truck and dumped them in my carport! Maybe it was her final statement to me; maybe it was a gesture of thanks to Cindy and me for helping them, or maybe she just wanted Cindy’s attention. She did call up Cindy a short time later to explain that her baby was not JD’s but her ex-husband’s. She provided explicit details as why that was the fact. She told Cindy that she wanted to set the record straight with the only friends that JD had that were left on earth. I walked into the kitchen just as that phone call was ending. Cindy turned, clutched me and buried her face in my chest and sobbed like a baby.
Dennis Phillips
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
2008-10 Famulus Newsletter - Ring 170
Newsletter of IBM Ring #170
The Bev Bergeron Ring
Next general meeting Wednesday, 10/15/2008 at 7:30 PM SHARP
Board meeting at 6:30 pm
Meeting theme: Halloween magic
The Elks Club Lodge #1079,
12 N. Primrose Dr., Orlando, Florida 32803
“The corner of Primrose Drive and Central Boulevard” (click for map)
Lunch meetings every Tuesday at noon at Goodings (next to the food court)
Website: http://www.ring170.com/
F. A. M. E. is the Florida Association of Magical Entertainers
*************************************************************
Directory
Craig J. Fennessy – President – CraigFennessy@gmail.com
Chris Dunn- Vice President – Youngdunns@yahoo.com
Art Thomas – Treasurer – Art.Thomas@Disney.com
Dennis Philips- Secretary – Dennis@alliedcostumes.com
James Songster- Director at Large, - JjTjMagic@aol.com
Joe Vecciarelli- Sgt at Arms - talkingmute@tampabay.rr.com
Stefan Bartelski – Editor of “Famulus”- Famulus@illusioneer.com
*************************************************************
GET PUBLISHED!
Got an idea for an article to add to the next FAMULUS? Put it in the body of an email or in a Word document attached to an email. Send it to Famulus@illusioneer.com, and we will get you in print.
Please, please, please, use the above e-mail address, your messages are in danger of getting lost if you do not do so.
The Bev Bergeron Ring
Next general meeting Wednesday, 10/15/2008 at 7:30 PM SHARP
Board meeting at 6:30 pm
Meeting theme: Halloween magic
The Elks Club Lodge #1079,
12 N. Primrose Dr., Orlando, Florida 32803
“The corner of Primrose Drive and Central Boulevard” (click for map)
Lunch meetings every Tuesday at noon at Goodings (next to the food court)
Website: http://www.ring170.com/
F. A. M. E. is the Florida Association of Magical Entertainers
*************************************************************
Directory
Craig J. Fennessy – President – CraigFennessy@gmail.com
Chris Dunn- Vice President – Youngdunns@yahoo.com
Art Thomas – Treasurer – Art.Thomas@Disney.com
Dennis Philips- Secretary – Dennis@alliedcostumes.com
James Songster- Director at Large, - JjTjMagic@aol.com
Joe Vecciarelli- Sgt at Arms - talkingmute@tampabay.rr.com
Stefan Bartelski – Editor of “Famulus”- Famulus@illusioneer.com
*************************************************************
GET PUBLISHED!
Got an idea for an article to add to the next FAMULUS? Put it in the body of an email or in a Word document attached to an email. Send it to Famulus@illusioneer.com, and we will get you in print.
Please, please, please, use the above e-mail address, your messages are in danger of getting lost if you do not do so.
2008-10 From the Editor
The nights are getting shorter and the magicians' busy season is fast approaching. Halloween, and then the holidays with all their parties will keep professional members busy; hopefully, as the issues in the economic area will have an impact on people's and companies' spending.
Do not forget that this month's meeting is the first at our new location. If you are not sure how to get there, click on the red link in the Ring report for a map and the option for directions.
Thanks to Dennis & Dan for their contributions.
Greetings from your Editor
Do not forget that this month's meeting is the first at our new location. If you are not sure how to get there, click on the red link in the Ring report for a map and the option for directions.
Thanks to Dennis & Dan for their contributions.
Greetings from your Editor
2008-10 Ring Report
Ring Report Ring #170 The Bev Bergeron Ring
It was a great September meeting. President Craig Fennessey gaveled the meeting to order. This month we say good-bye to the Marks Street Senior Center, our meeting home for most of the last decade. Next month we meet at the Elks Lodge at Primrose and Central in Downtown Orlando near the Orlando Executive Airport.
A few of our magicians are still working regularly as the tourist season fades into fall. Kostya Kimlat is appearing at local restaurants. Joe Zimmer reports the “Titanic” exhibit is moving back to International Drive and he has a place on the entertainment roster. Joe was next called up by President Fennessey for a mini teach-in. Zimmer showed us an excellent presentation of the classic effect where two lengths of string become one. He also showed a unique use for Elmer’s Repositional Adhesive. The effect was “Vlad the Impaler” and a card kept changing positions in a packet. The packet was rigged with the adhesive and the effect was amazing. Richard Hewitt then followed with a show-and-tell about how he transformed a small effect into a big one at Kinkos. He took a forcing card with colors and had it enlarged at the print shop and it because ideal for stage. He followed by showing how he rebuilt the gimmick for a magnetic version of The Torn and Restored Newspaper.
Phil Schwartz was introduced for another of his renowned “Magic Moment” in magic history. This was his 8th edition. Phil explained how magic collectors enjoy collecting rare printed pieces such as magicians’ business cards, programs, and posters, throw cards and even canceled checks! As always, Phil brought excellent examples from his valuable collection. He had many of the printed show programs from the first IBM Conventions.
With the formal meeting concluded, it was time for the monthly ring show and Joe Zimmer agreed to Emcee. First up was Kostya Kimlat . Rather than dazzle us with his fabulous card wizardry, he did a three part mind-reading effect. It was a mini-Mental Epic type of effect using three different colored Sticky Pads. Kostya is a versatile performer and his routine was very clever and well received. Charlie Pfrogner followed with a spooky effect known as “The Bell, the Book and the Candle”. A pad with a drawn hand was passed to a spectator to make a mark on a finger. When Charlie held the paper over a candle it did not burn and the mark disappeared. Charlie then had a big blister on his own finger. It was the same one that had been marked on the paper. Oddly the bell that had been rung at the beginning of the demonstration suddenly had no clapper. Charlie said this routine was from an old magic magazine. Master Magi Pfrogner is a genius at finding old but good effects that have been buried in print.
Dan Knapp was welcomed on stage so that he could repeat a mentalism effect he claimed he could do even better this month. Six colored cards were handed to a spectator and the spectator was told to select a short phrase from any one of the cards. There were over thirty phrases. Dan then did a reading on how the color of the card meant something to the person and then he correctly announced the phrase. He topped his last presentation. Mystana (Rebecca) had a mysterious little wooden box that made three small fuzzy balls instantly disappear as she threw them in the it. She then made a red handkerchief vanish. Dan Stapleton, drew again from his award-winning Linking Ring Parade published several years ago and presented “Deck Tracy”, the card that finds other cards that have been lost in the deck. Wrapping up the show was Syd McWethy. He used a story about a con man and a crooked bet and made a coin vanish. With that, the show concluded and another fun ring meeting came to an end.
Join us for our monthly ring meeting whenever you are in Orlando. Good things are always happening in Ring 170.
Dennis Phillips
2008-10 Florida Magicians Association
Dear Fellow FMA member,
The next FMA convention is right around the corner (Nov. 7-9) in Daytona Beach. You must register now, so you are not disappointed, as the Daytona convention has been sold out for the last few years. With two stage shows, eleven lectures and contest awards valued at nearly $2000.00 this year will not disappoint. Heck, you even get a Friday night dinner included!
I encourage all members to represent your club at the FMA meeting held during the convention. At the Miami meeting in June we had a very good turn out. We want your input on how we can build and improve the FMA. The FMA is a "sounding board" for all Florida magicians. As a representative, you will be taking back to your club, inside news and information, first hand, as to what is happening around the state. And we want all the Florida magicians to know what events your club is doing in the future.Traditionally we meet the last morning of the convention but it could be at any time. When you receive your schedule of events, it will state where and when we will be meeting but I will personally invite you during the start of the Friday night show.
The new FMA web site ( http://www.flmagic.org/ ) is up and running, please be sure to check it out.
Thanks, and if I don't recognize you in passing at the convention, stop and say hello as I would love to meet you.
Please email this message on to all your local or Florida magic friends.
Dan Stapleton
President
Florida Magicians Association
The next FMA convention is right around the corner (Nov. 7-9) in Daytona Beach. You must register now, so you are not disappointed, as the Daytona convention has been sold out for the last few years. With two stage shows, eleven lectures and contest awards valued at nearly $2000.00 this year will not disappoint. Heck, you even get a Friday night dinner included!
I encourage all members to represent your club at the FMA meeting held during the convention. At the Miami meeting in June we had a very good turn out. We want your input on how we can build and improve the FMA. The FMA is a "sounding board" for all Florida magicians. As a representative, you will be taking back to your club, inside news and information, first hand, as to what is happening around the state. And we want all the Florida magicians to know what events your club is doing in the future.Traditionally we meet the last morning of the convention but it could be at any time. When you receive your schedule of events, it will state where and when we will be meeting but I will personally invite you during the start of the Friday night show.
The new FMA web site ( http://www.flmagic.org/ ) is up and running, please be sure to check it out.
Thanks, and if I don't recognize you in passing at the convention, stop and say hello as I would love to meet you.
Please email this message on to all your local or Florida magic friends.
Dan Stapleton
President
Florida Magicians Association
2008-10 End of America's Got Talent
OK...so some opera singer wins the Million Bucks! I was routing for the magician who ripped the doves head off!
Dan
2008-10 Dennis' Deliberations
The story behind “Magic in Mandolins” ,Orlando’s fine-dining dinner show
The first and only fine-dining Orlando area magic-dinner show is now in its second year. Many magicians have dreamed of having their own showroom where crowds nightly thrill to their unique style of magic. Dan Stapleton has created his own popular dinner attraction, Magic in Mandolins, at The Radisson Resort-Orlando and he has allowed me to pull back the curtain to see how he did it.
The Orlando area in Central Florida is a major tourist destination for the world. Orlando gained the reputation as being a magical place. This was due to the fantasy feeling of the theme parks as well as the rapid population and business development. Aside from a few sporadic magic shows within the theme parks, other attractions that exclusively featuring magic and illusions have been less than successful.
Fewer personality types are more suited to creating an independent magic attraction than an experienced cruise director. The skills set needed to succeed in both areas are: A compelling and fun personality, flexibility, creativity, people skills, theatrics, business savvy and a love for a challenge. These factors all had a major role, along with a bit of luck, for Orlando magician-illusionist, Dan Stapleton. Dan was originally from Milwaukee and came to Orlando in 1973 to work at Walt Disney World. He performed in the magic shop on Main Street in Disney World. During those years Dan was a frequent act at magic conventions and even did a strait jacket escape over Interstate 4 while being suspended 200 feet beneath an airborne helicopter. After a stint as an owner at another magic shop outside of Disney at the former Mystery Fun House. Dan worked for 4 years at the old Circus World doing the Illusion Show and at a Wild West dinner attraction. He decided to go to sea with his award winning magic act where the work was steady.
After 23 years he decided to leave the sea-going life behind, to spend more time with his wife and teenage children. His thoughts turned to a shore gig that could benefit from his years of experience as a cruise entertainer and director. He was drawn to a job that is nearly identical but without the ship: A resort entertainment director.
His employer, The Radisson Resort-Orlando, wanted to try a Murder Mystery dinner show in the "Oak Room", a part of the Mandolins dining area but it only seated 50. The cost of a Murder show staff and production would not have been cost effective. This led to the suggestion, by Dan, that they present an intimate and smaller magic experience. They went for the idea in early 2007. The Oak Room was transformed into a Victorian style seance room with poster portraits of Thurston and Carter looking down to the step-up stage. Lit candles on both sides of portraits, with black glitter curtain swooping down, add to the impression. An ornate table and two chairs on stage have a goblet, card deck and "spirit bell". Guests know they are in for a magical evening. To get audiences in the mood, twelve vintage magic poster reproductions on lighted easels line the entrance way to the performing area.
The night, my wife Cindy and I attended the show; Mark Fitzgerald provided delightful walk-around table magic during the dinner with cards, coins and rubber bands. The name of the dining complex is called Mandolins and a live guitar and mandolin serenade was performed by musician German Collazos of Columbia.
The meal was gourmet food on fine china in buffet style. The dining area is elegantly decorated with fine marble and a rich Mediterranean Villa feel. In fact, this feeling carries through the whole Radisson Resort theme. As we turned off of busy Highway 192 just off I-4 in Kissimmee, Florida, the actual municipality where the resort is located in suburban Orlando, our eyes were filled with spectacular greenery. The palm trees and enchanting architecture were bathed by the August evening sun.
The performance room in Mandolins is adjacent to the dining area but a separate room. Dan has a light tree for colored stage lights and the finale effect in the rear of the room.
In the audience were 35 magicians and spouses along with 15 lay persons for the maximum seating of 50. The show plays regularly on Thursdays during "tourist seasonal times" when families are in the resort. During the slowest times of the year the show is available only for groups and conferences. The dinner show is $29.95 adults and $15.95 children. The show runs 45-60 min. Dinner is at 7pm and the show at 8pm.
Mark Fitzgerald, already known to the audience from his walk-around magic, introduced Dan. Dan walked up through the audience to applause and wears a velvet deep purple coat with an open burgundy colored shirt. He greeted the audience and explained the show would be in three parts. He said first he would do a bit of close up magic right in front of your eyes. The second part will be a penetration into everyone’s mind with ESP magic and finally, in the third part, would his favorite classic parlor magic.
Dan immediately challenged the audience to a test. It involved holding out both hands straight, crossing then over and clasping them together. The Twilight Zone music theme played as Dan was able to untwist his hands and the audience is unable to do it with theirs. This effect is now a classic bit, that most magicians know, but it still gets the lay audience involved and ready to see more.
The close-up magic proceeded rapidly. A packet of sugar from a dining table vanished in his fist and reappeared inside a female spectator’s purse. There was a Professor’s Nightmare with three audience assistants followed by two live goldfish materializing out of thin air into a water-filled wine goblet. There is a sponge ball routine with an audience member and their ring replaced the vanished sponge ball.
The highpoint of the close-up segment was a story about Dan’s Irish ancestry and a Card Stab routine with a knife he said was an antique family heirloom. A playing card, freely selected by an audience member, was the card that was found impaled by the knife as the rest of the cards fall to the floor in a flash of fire. The lit candle on the table then was made to vanish and the first segment concluded.
Dan deliberately puts the close-up segment at the top of the show to transform passive spectators into active participants.
Now the audience was ready for the part of the show that explored the mind.
A sealed white envelope with a predicted word inside was displayed and handed to an audience member. Another audience member was asked to tell Dan at what exact point to use his scissors to clip off the end of a long newspaper clipping. The clipping fluttered to the floor and was retrieved by the spectator. The sentence at the clipped point matched the prediction that was in the envelope from the beginning.
The concluding effect in this segment was a signature effect with Dan. Six spectators that never met Dan wrote their first names on strips of paper. All the papers were attached to a long strip of masking tape held between the arms of a spectator. One was freely chosen and burned and the ashes were rubbed on Dan’s arm and the name of the person on the burned paper materialized on his arm.
The final segment of the show was a few of Dan’s larger performance pieces that have been perfected from years on the cruise ships. He begins with two microphone stands spaced ten feet apart with a white rope stretched between them. Magicians will recognize this effect as a Pavel creation, but Dan adds music and a touch of theatrics. The rope is cut and knotted at the middle and then the knot is slid to one side and untied to show the actual cut has migrated. It is then slid to the other side. Finally the rope is fully restored.
Another signature effect, fine-tuned by many years of performances, is “Stapleton’s Sympathetic Silks”. In Dan’s hands this becomes a major production. Two women were invited up on stage to sit in two wooden chairs places on each side of the stage. One set of large silk scarves were tied together and given to one woman. The other set of scarves were left untied and in the procession of the second woman. Dan then did a bit of dancing and charade from side to side to the song “Hey Big Spender”. He quips, “I used to be a Chip n’ Dip dancer!” It ended with the knots changing places. The startling finale was that two bottles of real Champagne appearing in each bundle of large scarves and handed to the ladies as they returned to their seats with big applause.
The tried and true Lester Lake Head Chopper followed using the help of a gentleman from the audience. Here again, Dan uses his own unique presentation. The chopper is introduced as, “something I picked up at Lorena Bobbitt’s garage sale!” Many comic lines are used and even a detached head puppet in a bucket is held up singing, “I Ain’t got No body”. Dan’s light-hearted presentation equals the best of the old pros.
What had to be the most ethereal and awe-inspiring effect was a Dan’s version of Karson’s Zombie Ball. He themed it around “The Birth of a Pearl” and the orb was an iridescent pearl. An automated clam shell on the table top slowly opened as appropriate music played. The pearl emerged from the shell. It floated with Dan’s excellent manipulation which was made even more effective by using a ragged covering cloth with ragged holes through it and covered with sea netting. Any magician who knows this familiar effect would be amazed at the deceptiveness.
Stapleton’s final effect of the evening was the story about his childhood in the snowy winters of Wisconsin. He remarked that even though he has spent many years in Florida and on tropical cruise ships he still dreams about his old northern winter wonderlands and the giant snowflakes. He began with the classic Chinese snowstorm and concluded with the entire performance room filled with snow falling as music softly played in the background. It was a captivating emotional conclusion to nearly an hour of non-stop intimate magic.
Dennis Phillips
The first and only fine-dining Orlando area magic-dinner show is now in its second year. Many magicians have dreamed of having their own showroom where crowds nightly thrill to their unique style of magic. Dan Stapleton has created his own popular dinner attraction, Magic in Mandolins, at The Radisson Resort-Orlando and he has allowed me to pull back the curtain to see how he did it.
The Orlando area in Central Florida is a major tourist destination for the world. Orlando gained the reputation as being a magical place. This was due to the fantasy feeling of the theme parks as well as the rapid population and business development. Aside from a few sporadic magic shows within the theme parks, other attractions that exclusively featuring magic and illusions have been less than successful.
Fewer personality types are more suited to creating an independent magic attraction than an experienced cruise director. The skills set needed to succeed in both areas are: A compelling and fun personality, flexibility, creativity, people skills, theatrics, business savvy and a love for a challenge. These factors all had a major role, along with a bit of luck, for Orlando magician-illusionist, Dan Stapleton. Dan was originally from Milwaukee and came to Orlando in 1973 to work at Walt Disney World. He performed in the magic shop on Main Street in Disney World. During those years Dan was a frequent act at magic conventions and even did a strait jacket escape over Interstate 4 while being suspended 200 feet beneath an airborne helicopter. After a stint as an owner at another magic shop outside of Disney at the former Mystery Fun House. Dan worked for 4 years at the old Circus World doing the Illusion Show and at a Wild West dinner attraction. He decided to go to sea with his award winning magic act where the work was steady.
After 23 years he decided to leave the sea-going life behind, to spend more time with his wife and teenage children. His thoughts turned to a shore gig that could benefit from his years of experience as a cruise entertainer and director. He was drawn to a job that is nearly identical but without the ship: A resort entertainment director.
His employer, The Radisson Resort-Orlando, wanted to try a Murder Mystery dinner show in the "Oak Room", a part of the Mandolins dining area but it only seated 50. The cost of a Murder show staff and production would not have been cost effective. This led to the suggestion, by Dan, that they present an intimate and smaller magic experience. They went for the idea in early 2007. The Oak Room was transformed into a Victorian style seance room with poster portraits of Thurston and Carter looking down to the step-up stage. Lit candles on both sides of portraits, with black glitter curtain swooping down, add to the impression. An ornate table and two chairs on stage have a goblet, card deck and "spirit bell". Guests know they are in for a magical evening. To get audiences in the mood, twelve vintage magic poster reproductions on lighted easels line the entrance way to the performing area.
The night, my wife Cindy and I attended the show; Mark Fitzgerald provided delightful walk-around table magic during the dinner with cards, coins and rubber bands. The name of the dining complex is called Mandolins and a live guitar and mandolin serenade was performed by musician German Collazos of Columbia.
The meal was gourmet food on fine china in buffet style. The dining area is elegantly decorated with fine marble and a rich Mediterranean Villa feel. In fact, this feeling carries through the whole Radisson Resort theme. As we turned off of busy Highway 192 just off I-4 in Kissimmee, Florida, the actual municipality where the resort is located in suburban Orlando, our eyes were filled with spectacular greenery. The palm trees and enchanting architecture were bathed by the August evening sun.
The performance room in Mandolins is adjacent to the dining area but a separate room. Dan has a light tree for colored stage lights and the finale effect in the rear of the room.
In the audience were 35 magicians and spouses along with 15 lay persons for the maximum seating of 50. The show plays regularly on Thursdays during "tourist seasonal times" when families are in the resort. During the slowest times of the year the show is available only for groups and conferences. The dinner show is $29.95 adults and $15.95 children. The show runs 45-60 min. Dinner is at 7pm and the show at 8pm.
Mark Fitzgerald, already known to the audience from his walk-around magic, introduced Dan. Dan walked up through the audience to applause and wears a velvet deep purple coat with an open burgundy colored shirt. He greeted the audience and explained the show would be in three parts. He said first he would do a bit of close up magic right in front of your eyes. The second part will be a penetration into everyone’s mind with ESP magic and finally, in the third part, would his favorite classic parlor magic.
Dan immediately challenged the audience to a test. It involved holding out both hands straight, crossing then over and clasping them together. The Twilight Zone music theme played as Dan was able to untwist his hands and the audience is unable to do it with theirs. This effect is now a classic bit, that most magicians know, but it still gets the lay audience involved and ready to see more.
The close-up magic proceeded rapidly. A packet of sugar from a dining table vanished in his fist and reappeared inside a female spectator’s purse. There was a Professor’s Nightmare with three audience assistants followed by two live goldfish materializing out of thin air into a water-filled wine goblet. There is a sponge ball routine with an audience member and their ring replaced the vanished sponge ball.
The highpoint of the close-up segment was a story about Dan’s Irish ancestry and a Card Stab routine with a knife he said was an antique family heirloom. A playing card, freely selected by an audience member, was the card that was found impaled by the knife as the rest of the cards fall to the floor in a flash of fire. The lit candle on the table then was made to vanish and the first segment concluded.
Dan deliberately puts the close-up segment at the top of the show to transform passive spectators into active participants.
Now the audience was ready for the part of the show that explored the mind.
A sealed white envelope with a predicted word inside was displayed and handed to an audience member. Another audience member was asked to tell Dan at what exact point to use his scissors to clip off the end of a long newspaper clipping. The clipping fluttered to the floor and was retrieved by the spectator. The sentence at the clipped point matched the prediction that was in the envelope from the beginning.
The concluding effect in this segment was a signature effect with Dan. Six spectators that never met Dan wrote their first names on strips of paper. All the papers were attached to a long strip of masking tape held between the arms of a spectator. One was freely chosen and burned and the ashes were rubbed on Dan’s arm and the name of the person on the burned paper materialized on his arm.
The final segment of the show was a few of Dan’s larger performance pieces that have been perfected from years on the cruise ships. He begins with two microphone stands spaced ten feet apart with a white rope stretched between them. Magicians will recognize this effect as a Pavel creation, but Dan adds music and a touch of theatrics. The rope is cut and knotted at the middle and then the knot is slid to one side and untied to show the actual cut has migrated. It is then slid to the other side. Finally the rope is fully restored.
Another signature effect, fine-tuned by many years of performances, is “Stapleton’s Sympathetic Silks”. In Dan’s hands this becomes a major production. Two women were invited up on stage to sit in two wooden chairs places on each side of the stage. One set of large silk scarves were tied together and given to one woman. The other set of scarves were left untied and in the procession of the second woman. Dan then did a bit of dancing and charade from side to side to the song “Hey Big Spender”. He quips, “I used to be a Chip n’ Dip dancer!” It ended with the knots changing places. The startling finale was that two bottles of real Champagne appearing in each bundle of large scarves and handed to the ladies as they returned to their seats with big applause.
The tried and true Lester Lake Head Chopper followed using the help of a gentleman from the audience. Here again, Dan uses his own unique presentation. The chopper is introduced as, “something I picked up at Lorena Bobbitt’s garage sale!” Many comic lines are used and even a detached head puppet in a bucket is held up singing, “I Ain’t got No body”. Dan’s light-hearted presentation equals the best of the old pros.
What had to be the most ethereal and awe-inspiring effect was a Dan’s version of Karson’s Zombie Ball. He themed it around “The Birth of a Pearl” and the orb was an iridescent pearl. An automated clam shell on the table top slowly opened as appropriate music played. The pearl emerged from the shell. It floated with Dan’s excellent manipulation which was made even more effective by using a ragged covering cloth with ragged holes through it and covered with sea netting. Any magician who knows this familiar effect would be amazed at the deceptiveness.
Stapleton’s final effect of the evening was the story about his childhood in the snowy winters of Wisconsin. He remarked that even though he has spent many years in Florida and on tropical cruise ships he still dreams about his old northern winter wonderlands and the giant snowflakes. He began with the classic Chinese snowstorm and concluded with the entire performance room filled with snow falling as music softly played in the background. It was a captivating emotional conclusion to nearly an hour of non-stop intimate magic.
Dennis Phillips
Saturday, September 13, 2008
2008-09 Famulus newsletter
Newsletter of IBM Ring #170
The Bev Bergeron Ring
Next general meeting Wednesday, 09/17/2008 at 7:30 PM SHARP
Board meeting at 6:30 pm
Meeting theme: Hurricane magic
Marks Street Center, 99 Mark Street, downtown Orlando
If you visit with us and do not know the room we meet in , please be aware that some of the people in the office at the Senior Center may not be aware we are meeting there! At the last meeting one visitor asked where the "IBM" was meeting and the management apparently thought they were asking for the International Business Machines group! They said that there was no "IBM" on the schedule. So, if you have never been to our ring meeting , please say "magicians" or "FAME" and if that doesn't get the room location , just walk around looking for us. The Senior Center is a public building.
Please note that the Ring meetings will be held at a new venue, starting in October. The new address is:
The Elks Club Lodge #1079,
12 N. Primrose Dr., Orlando, Florida 32803
“The corner of Primrose Drive and Central Boulevard”
Lunch meetings every Tuesday at noon at Goodings (next to the food court)
Website: http://www.ring170.com/
F. A. M. E. is the Florida Association of Magical Entertainers
*************************************************************
Directory
Craig J. Fennessy – President – CraigFennessy@gmail.com
Chris Dunn- Vice President – Youngdunns@yahoo.com
Art Thomas – Treasurer – Art.Thomas@Disney.com
Dennis Philips- Secretary – Dennis@alliedcostumes.com
James Songster- Director at Large, - JjTjMagic@aol.com
Joe Vecciarelli- Sgt at Arms - talkingmute@tampabay.rr.com
Stefan Bartelski – Editor of “Famulus”- Famulus@illusioneer.com
*************************************************************
GET PUBLISHED!
Got an idea for an article to add to the next FAMULUS? Put it in the body of an email or in a Word document attached to an email. Send it to Famulus@illusioneer.com, and we will get you in print.
Please, please, please, use the above e-mail address, your messages are in danger of getting lost if you do not do so.
The Bev Bergeron Ring
Next general meeting Wednesday, 09/17/2008 at 7:30 PM SHARP
Board meeting at 6:30 pm
Meeting theme: Hurricane magic
Marks Street Center, 99 Mark Street, downtown Orlando
If you visit with us and do not know the room we meet in , please be aware that some of the people in the office at the Senior Center may not be aware we are meeting there! At the last meeting one visitor asked where the "IBM" was meeting and the management apparently thought they were asking for the International Business Machines group! They said that there was no "IBM" on the schedule. So, if you have never been to our ring meeting , please say "magicians" or "FAME" and if that doesn't get the room location , just walk around looking for us. The Senior Center is a public building.
Please note that the Ring meetings will be held at a new venue, starting in October. The new address is:
The Elks Club Lodge #1079,
12 N. Primrose Dr., Orlando, Florida 32803
“The corner of Primrose Drive and Central Boulevard”
Lunch meetings every Tuesday at noon at Goodings (next to the food court)
Website: http://www.ring170.com/
F. A. M. E. is the Florida Association of Magical Entertainers
*************************************************************
Directory
Craig J. Fennessy – President – CraigFennessy@gmail.com
Chris Dunn- Vice President – Youngdunns@yahoo.com
Art Thomas – Treasurer – Art.Thomas@Disney.com
Dennis Philips- Secretary – Dennis@alliedcostumes.com
James Songster- Director at Large, - JjTjMagic@aol.com
Joe Vecciarelli- Sgt at Arms - talkingmute@tampabay.rr.com
Stefan Bartelski – Editor of “Famulus”- Famulus@illusioneer.com
*************************************************************
GET PUBLISHED!
Got an idea for an article to add to the next FAMULUS? Put it in the body of an email or in a Word document attached to an email. Send it to Famulus@illusioneer.com, and we will get you in print.
Please, please, please, use the above e-mail address, your messages are in danger of getting lost if you do not do so.
2008-09 From the editor
As summer draws to a close, at least for the rest of the country, the hurricanes are flying left and right of us, but luckily not right here (yet?). I was glad to read that Fay was not able to disrupt our monthly meeting and as I write, there are no storms on the horizon that could impact our next meeting. My thanks to this month's contributors, some of whom have mutiple entries: Dan Stapleton, Joe V., Dan Knapp and, as ever, Dennis.
I am Stefan Bartelski and I approve this message
I am Stefan Bartelski and I approve this message
2008-09 Ring Report Ring #170 The Bev Bergeron Ring
Tropical Storm Fay could not keep away almost 30 magic lovers from our August meeting. The winds were gusting up to 30 miles an hour outside and at times the rain was blowing sideways. All the storm shutters had been applied to the Orlando city building where we hold our meetings. President Craig Fennessey gaveled the meeting to order just 5 minutes late. A special guest was Paula Large, known to the magic world as the illustrator of Don Arthur’s book, “Illusions in the Round”. It was also great to see the recovering J.C. Hiatt bouncing back from surgery and looking good. Mark Fitzgerald mentioned that members of the ring are doing street magic 7 days a week at Downtown Disney. They can be found outside the Magic Masters store across from Bongo's restaurant. The magic crew covering the full week consists of Mark Fitzgerald, Craig Fennessy and Mike Bondi. The magic is starting at 6pm and ending 10:30 pm on weekdays and ending at 11:30 on Fridays and weekends.
Bev Bergeron and Dan Stapleton gave a positive report on the Louisville Combines IBM/SAM Convention. Ring members were invited to a picnic tribute for the ailing Wayne Scott. “Scotty” was one of the nation’s leading clown shoe and circus prop makers and long time Ring members. Ring member Fred Moore and wife Adina are embarking on a world tour with their magic.
Ring treasurer, Art Thomas presented a mini-lecture on tables you can use for your magic act. He took what is normally a forgotten part of a magic act and presented a highly entertaining and complete treatise. He put forth some real effort and lugged in ten examples from his collection of tables. This included side tables, center tables, novelty tables and “Office Max” specials. He even gave us a look at his own clever design for a folding Night Club table. The highlight was a one-of-a-kind folding table he bought from Abbotts.
Phil Schwartz, our resident magic historian, presented his “Magic Moment #7”. This month it was a talk and artifact exhibit of The Herrmans. He began with Carl Hermann and his younger brother Alexander Hermann. Alexander became famous in America and was a big name in magic on this continent from the time of the American Civil war until he died in 1896. He had a magical rivalry going with Harry Kellar. Hermann’s wife Adelaide continued his large lavish show until the late 1920s. Hermann performed for presidents Lincoln and Grant. Hermann had a mansion and estate in Beechurst Long Island. According to Walter Gibson, Howard Thurston was only able to buy the stable and part of the land but he transformed it into his own mansion and estate.
With Phil’s great talk concluded, Chris Dunn agreed to Emcee this month’s show. First up was Dan Stapleton with an effect he created and published in his recent Linking Ring Parade from September 2005. Four spectators selected four cards after shuffling the deck on top of a card table. Dan had them all toss their parts of the deck into the air and he whipped away the table drape and in the cascade he impaled the cards on each of the four table legs!
Richard Hewitt presented a mentalism effect he adapted from a classic Blackstone Sr. trick. A large chart with a grid was filled by high numbers. A spectator selected a square in the grid and Richard was immediately was able to name the number. Charlie Pfrogner had a creative version of the “Room Service” mentalism trick. He first brought the audience to laughter by showing a card with a cartoon word-bubble with the word “Think”. He flipped it over and it had a large light-bulb cartoon drawing. Charlie had number cards handed to him by three assistants while another added the numbers. It ended up that the room number of the hotel key in Charlie’s vest pocket matched the sum of the numbers they called out and one of the digits matched the hotel selected on a list of hotels. Charlie said he got the idea for the trick from an old Linking Ring article.
Finally, Jim McNiff, did an impressive torn and restored newspaper. His unique twist was that he had it signed before he began and when he did the restoration the signature was still on the newspaper! He selected Bev Bergeron to sign the newspaper. It was a clever way to get Bev’s autograph. With the show concluded we headed back out into the wind and rain.
Good things are always happening in Ring 170.
Dennis Phillips
Bev Bergeron and Dan Stapleton gave a positive report on the Louisville Combines IBM/SAM Convention. Ring members were invited to a picnic tribute for the ailing Wayne Scott. “Scotty” was one of the nation’s leading clown shoe and circus prop makers and long time Ring members. Ring member Fred Moore and wife Adina are embarking on a world tour with their magic.
Ring treasurer, Art Thomas presented a mini-lecture on tables you can use for your magic act. He took what is normally a forgotten part of a magic act and presented a highly entertaining and complete treatise. He put forth some real effort and lugged in ten examples from his collection of tables. This included side tables, center tables, novelty tables and “Office Max” specials. He even gave us a look at his own clever design for a folding Night Club table. The highlight was a one-of-a-kind folding table he bought from Abbotts.
Phil Schwartz, our resident magic historian, presented his “Magic Moment #7”. This month it was a talk and artifact exhibit of The Herrmans. He began with Carl Hermann and his younger brother Alexander Hermann. Alexander became famous in America and was a big name in magic on this continent from the time of the American Civil war until he died in 1896. He had a magical rivalry going with Harry Kellar. Hermann’s wife Adelaide continued his large lavish show until the late 1920s. Hermann performed for presidents Lincoln and Grant. Hermann had a mansion and estate in Beechurst Long Island. According to Walter Gibson, Howard Thurston was only able to buy the stable and part of the land but he transformed it into his own mansion and estate.
With Phil’s great talk concluded, Chris Dunn agreed to Emcee this month’s show. First up was Dan Stapleton with an effect he created and published in his recent Linking Ring Parade from September 2005. Four spectators selected four cards after shuffling the deck on top of a card table. Dan had them all toss their parts of the deck into the air and he whipped away the table drape and in the cascade he impaled the cards on each of the four table legs!
Richard Hewitt presented a mentalism effect he adapted from a classic Blackstone Sr. trick. A large chart with a grid was filled by high numbers. A spectator selected a square in the grid and Richard was immediately was able to name the number. Charlie Pfrogner had a creative version of the “Room Service” mentalism trick. He first brought the audience to laughter by showing a card with a cartoon word-bubble with the word “Think”. He flipped it over and it had a large light-bulb cartoon drawing. Charlie had number cards handed to him by three assistants while another added the numbers. It ended up that the room number of the hotel key in Charlie’s vest pocket matched the sum of the numbers they called out and one of the digits matched the hotel selected on a list of hotels. Charlie said he got the idea for the trick from an old Linking Ring article.
Finally, Jim McNiff, did an impressive torn and restored newspaper. His unique twist was that he had it signed before he began and when he did the restoration the signature was still on the newspaper! He selected Bev Bergeron to sign the newspaper. It was a clever way to get Bev’s autograph. With the show concluded we headed back out into the wind and rain.
Good things are always happening in Ring 170.
Dennis Phillips
2008-09 Need 450 Acres Near Disney?
KISSIMMEE (Orlando Sentinel) – One of Osceola County's grandest tourism visions remains an illusion. A 450-acre tract planned for a theme park mixing magic and Transcendental Meditation remains vacant in the tourism corridor. Almost two decades later, the two men behind the project are dead, and the land has a $150 million price tag. The former plant farm has remained a swatch of green foliage and wetlands that runs for nearly three-quarters of a mile among U.S. 192's glitz and kitsch, flanked by Old Town and a Cracker Barrel. Vedaland, which means land of knowledge, was announced with much fanfare in 1989 by magician Doug Henning and the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, a guru to The Beatles who introduced the West to Transcendental Meditation. Henning died of cancer in 2000, and the Maharishi died at his home in the Dutch town of Vlodrop this year. A Maharishi subsidiary closed on the property in 1990 for $20 million in cash. In 1996, it was on the market for $60 million after the group shifted efforts to a site in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The park plan originally included a building seemingly suspended above water without supports, a "magic flying chariot" that took riders inside the molecular structure of a rose, and robots that would fly through the air, performing magic tricks. The development was projected to cost $1 billion. The backers spent hundreds of thousands of dollars planning the project and getting government approvals, which expired years ago. While the property is listed on tax rolls as agricultural land because of a tree-farming operation, an Internet sales listing cites a study that "suggests potential development scenarios up to 800,000 square feet of commercial space and as many as 4,300 multifamily residential units." While the tract is zoned for a planned development, the original approvals expired in 2005. A new owner would have to start the process from the beginning, county officials said.
2008-09 Lesson Learned (UNCLASSIFIED)
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE
One wouldn't think it necessary to learn such a basic lesson.
During the July meeting I performed a mind-reading effect using colored cards and emotional events. In truth, I knew there was a flaw in the cards I had purchased. I found the flaw when I proofed out the effect - one of the cards was missing a line of text - and I knew it. Still, I have used this effect many times for quite a while and never been tripped up. So, overconfidently, I bring the effect to FAME. Surely the best thing that could have happened happened. The flaw was exposed much to my embarrassment.
The lesson is that if there is a problem, it will show at the worst possible time in a way to embarrass you the most.
Need I say more?
Wait until you see my new color cards at the September meeting!
Dan Knapp
[Editor's note: the 'Classification' and 'Caveats' are required because Dan sent us this article from his military account!]
Caveats: NONE
One wouldn't think it necessary to learn such a basic lesson.
During the July meeting I performed a mind-reading effect using colored cards and emotional events. In truth, I knew there was a flaw in the cards I had purchased. I found the flaw when I proofed out the effect - one of the cards was missing a line of text - and I knew it. Still, I have used this effect many times for quite a while and never been tripped up. So, overconfidently, I bring the effect to FAME. Surely the best thing that could have happened happened. The flaw was exposed much to my embarrassment.
The lesson is that if there is a problem, it will show at the worst possible time in a way to embarrass you the most.
Need I say more?
Wait until you see my new color cards at the September meeting!
Dan Knapp
[Editor's note: the 'Classification' and 'Caveats' are required because Dan sent us this article from his military account!]
2008-09 Magic Convention Contests more than just a trophy
We are less than three months away from the "fall" Florida Magicians Association convention in Daytona Beach. We encourage all clubs to sponsor a local member in representing the club in one of the contests. We also hope that you attend the contests so that you can cheer on your club member.
Yes, the prizes are very good. Magic on the Beach, in June, (the "spring" FMA convention) gave away some very nice cash prizes. In Daytona, they give away nearly $2000.00 in Daytona Magic merchandise. If you don't receive a plaque or trophy, ask the convention chairman and I'll bet that they might help arrange for you to also receive one if you wish.
I recently attended the IBM/SAM convention in Louisville. What impressed me was during the final night of the contests. "Invitations" to many future conventions were handed out and (nearly) every contestant walked away with a few contracts worth thousands of dollars.
Not only were the contestants admired by their peers, but even many of those who did not win the contests, were invited to perform at one of many international magic conventions. The more conventions you perform at, either in a contest or during an actual show, many magicians will step out and offer suggestions as to how you improve your act. One comedy act, Dave Kaplin, although not winning, walked away with thousands of dollars in contracts. Yes, he has a hilarious act but, again, he did not win! Many years ago I came in second during a contest but the chairman enjoyed the act enough that he invited me to perform on the "big show" two years later.
Sometimes it just takes a push from the club or a few club members to give any person the opportunity in advancing their interest.
At most conventions are other convention chairmen looking for talent for their own conventions. If you do compete in a contest, do yourself a favor and invite criticism. Ask friends and even some people who you don't know to give you ideas of how to improve your act. It will only help in making your act stronger. See if someone can tape your act, although most of the time taping is not allowed during the actual competition.
Again, I ask the clubs to get involved and encourage a club member to compete at a future convention contest. Then, and above all, help them and give that person your support. It will only make your club proud and make your club stronger.
See www.flmagic.org to see the rules for the upcoming Florida Magicians Association convention contest. Good luck.
Dan Stapleton
Prez-FMA
Yes, the prizes are very good. Magic on the Beach, in June, (the "spring" FMA convention) gave away some very nice cash prizes. In Daytona, they give away nearly $2000.00 in Daytona Magic merchandise. If you don't receive a plaque or trophy, ask the convention chairman and I'll bet that they might help arrange for you to also receive one if you wish.
I recently attended the IBM/SAM convention in Louisville. What impressed me was during the final night of the contests. "Invitations" to many future conventions were handed out and (nearly) every contestant walked away with a few contracts worth thousands of dollars.
Not only were the contestants admired by their peers, but even many of those who did not win the contests, were invited to perform at one of many international magic conventions. The more conventions you perform at, either in a contest or during an actual show, many magicians will step out and offer suggestions as to how you improve your act. One comedy act, Dave Kaplin, although not winning, walked away with thousands of dollars in contracts. Yes, he has a hilarious act but, again, he did not win! Many years ago I came in second during a contest but the chairman enjoyed the act enough that he invited me to perform on the "big show" two years later.
Sometimes it just takes a push from the club or a few club members to give any person the opportunity in advancing their interest.
At most conventions are other convention chairmen looking for talent for their own conventions. If you do compete in a contest, do yourself a favor and invite criticism. Ask friends and even some people who you don't know to give you ideas of how to improve your act. It will only help in making your act stronger. See if someone can tape your act, although most of the time taping is not allowed during the actual competition.
Again, I ask the clubs to get involved and encourage a club member to compete at a future convention contest. Then, and above all, help them and give that person your support. It will only make your club proud and make your club stronger.
See www.flmagic.org to see the rules for the upcoming Florida Magicians Association convention contest. Good luck.
Dan Stapleton
Prez-FMA
2008-09 Dan Stapleton Magic Workshop
Dan Stapleton Magic Workshop
Nov. 17 (Monday) 7:00pm - 9:00pm
(Combo Lecture and “on hands” workshop for beginner and intermediate)
At the home of Chris Dunn
1112 Druid Rd.
Maitland, Fl 32751 (Map Quest it or call)
(407) 808-5146
Only 20 seats available, sign-up and "first-pay-first-serve" Chris to reserve.
Cost: Only $10.00 (Cheap!)
Some things you “might” learn:
String Thru Finger I
String Thru Finger II
Rope Thru Finger
Silk Thru Rope
Silk Appear on Rope
Ball & Silk Manipulation
Ball to Silk
Thumb Tip magic
Linking Tooth Picks
Silent Mora Drop Vanish
Sponge Ball magic
Prof. Nightmare false count
Riffle “slip” Card Force
art of “Lapping”
Impromptu Vanishing Cell Phone
David Berglas’ Equivoque
A few card tricks
Easy “impromptu” Magic
If you have the following items, please bring them. If not, then they will be provided for you:
Three sponge balls, Prof. Nightmare, 15”-18” silk, thumb tip, approx. 3 ft. rope.
Remember, this will be an on-hands workshop/lecture where EVERYONE gets involved. Great fun...not to be missed. Free coffee too!
Nov. 17 (Monday) 7:00pm - 9:00pm
(Combo Lecture and “on hands” workshop for beginner and intermediate)
At the home of Chris Dunn
1112 Druid Rd.
Maitland, Fl 32751 (Map Quest it or call)
(407) 808-5146
Only 20 seats available, sign-up and "first-pay-first-serve" Chris to reserve.
Cost: Only $10.00 (Cheap!)
Some things you “might” learn:
String Thru Finger I
String Thru Finger II
Rope Thru Finger
Silk Thru Rope
Silk Appear on Rope
Ball & Silk Manipulation
Ball to Silk
Thumb Tip magic
Linking Tooth Picks
Silent Mora Drop Vanish
Sponge Ball magic
Prof. Nightmare false count
Riffle “slip” Card Force
art of “Lapping”
Impromptu Vanishing Cell Phone
David Berglas’ Equivoque
A few card tricks
Easy “impromptu” Magic
If you have the following items, please bring them. If not, then they will be provided for you:
Three sponge balls, Prof. Nightmare, 15”-18” silk, thumb tip, approx. 3 ft. rope.
Remember, this will be an on-hands workshop/lecture where EVERYONE gets involved. Great fun...not to be missed. Free coffee too!
2008-09 Interesting link for magical historians
Joe found a link with an interesting magical history link. Scroll down the home page and click on "First" to start reading the story at the beginning.
http://www.clockwork-comics.com/
http://www.clockwork-comics.
2008-09 New TV show with (TV) magic?
Joe found this link to a show that may be coming to TV in the new season
http://www.nbc.com/Primetime/Merlin/
http://www.nbc.com/Primetime/
2008-09 Dennis' Deliberations
“Technical skill is mastery of complexity, while creativity is mastery of simplicity”
-Sir Erik Christopher Zeeman-
It was 1960 and I was 12 years old and deeply entranced with magic. My family lived in Norfolk, Virginia and my Dad was a Navy man. It was the height of the Cold war and the Russians might nuke us at any minute. Chubby Checker was singing "The Twist" and The Ventures had just released "Walk Don't Run".
I spent my evenings pouring over magic catalogs and there was an intriguing effect called "The Spirit Bell". It would ring and appear to read people's mind. It sold for an enormous amount of money! There was no way that I could afford it. I would have to mow lawns and deliver The Virginian Pilot newspaper all summer to get anywhere near the price.
The thrill of every month was visiting the magic club meeting at Earl Edward's Magic Shop in downtown Norfolk. Bob McAllister, the local WTAR-TV kid's show host was always there. He took a liking to the way I thought about magic. Twelve years later I would have my own syndicated TV show based in Charlotte, North Carolina and Bob and I would continue to be good friends as he ascended to Wonderama at WNEW-TV in New York.
I had to figure out a way to make a functional Spirit Bell. The trick was too amazing. I had no money but I had to make it work! I reasoned that it used a mechanical ringer. I played with having an assistant pull a fishing line to make a weighted ringer hit the bell. Nothing seemed clean and examinable. I wanted everything to be examinable.
It was a warm August night and my dutiful Navy father happened to be in port and drove me downtown to the meeting in the back of Earl's Shop. Edwards had a small stage and with seats in his inner sanctum. Bob introduced me. Earl had a small stage in back of his shop and I asked that all the lights be dimmed.
The Crystal Bell I was using was used without permission. It was from my parents wedding in 1947. I placed it on a plain undraped table that was sitting on a small rug. I passed the bell and the table for examination and returned the bell upright to the table.
"Bell, processor of the spirits, answer "yes" with one ring and "no" with two. Are you ready to read minds? One loud “ding”! The audience snapped to attention.
For the next few minutes the bell told the ages of young magicians, and answered everyone's questions with absolute accuracy. Following the routine I again brought the bell and the table down into the audience for complete examination. There were no gimmicks! No ringers. They were totally unprepared!
I thought that Earl and Bob and the assembled at the club would die from puzzlement. You know, it was one of those times when you know they were fooled out of their minds but they could not bring themselves to admit it.
After the meeting Bob grabbed me over to the side and said, "Kid, you fooled 'em! Got me too until I almost broke my neck!"
What Bob discovered and the others didn't was how I did the trick.
My kid-brother Kenny was backstage in the wings with a soda straw and a mouthful of BBs! He was pee shooting the "dings" on the bell through the straw! I needed the rug so you could not hear them fall.
Bob almost tripped over the BBs on the floor. That is what tipped him off as to what I was doing!
So, friends, if you ever want an unprepared "Spirit Bell", try the simplistic BB method! It works and fools magicians.
Later in the year my Dad was transferred to Mayport Naval Station near Jacksonville. He was assigned to an aircraft carrier, the USS Essex, CVA 8.
When we arrived in Jacksonville, I was convinced we had arrived in heaven. The sky was bright; the weather was balmy with beautiful palm trees and a beach. The only hint of hell was the stench of the paper mills. At first my Mom thought that someone was cooking cabbage all the time. We lived across the street from the Pittsburg Pirates spring training camp at Jacksonville Beach. Summer mornings were spent watching Ranger Hal on TV and afternoons meant a time with Skipper Al and Popeye cartoons in Channel 12. Jim Green and Fielding West would have their own shows on these TV stations a decade later.
I wasted no time in trying to find a magic shop and magician’s group. The pickings were slimmer than in Norfolk, Virginia. The big name in Jacksonville at that time was , “Mars the Magician”. His name was Alston Cockerill. He was a sort of Bill Neff character. He did ghost shows and phone room fund-raising and had a collection of illusions. The other main local guy was Bob Hutchings who had a small magic shop called, The Magic Shack. It was actually a small building in back of his house.
I was excited to find out that they had sporadic meetings and I forced my mother to drive me over on the next Friday night. Shortly after arriving in Florida I made an exciting discovery of a brand new magic principle! For a few years I had been pulling single strands of nearly invisible thread from my mother’s old nylon stockings. I used them to move cards and work my own version of The Wonder Mouse. We had not been in Jacksonville for a week when I discovered a brand new animation principle that was not available in Norfolk, Virginia and places up North.
I arrived at Hutchings Magic Shack and there was only another boy about my age and mostly older guys smoking cigars. It was a familiar smell that I remembered from Leroy Mingus’ shop in Reading, Pennsylvania. Mingus was known for making his feather flower props.
It was my turn to perform! Bob Hutchings quieted down the roundtable, “Guys, here is a young newcomer from Norfolk who wants to show us a trick. His name is Dennis, give him a hand”. I opened up a shoe box and removed a one dollar bill and explained that it was all I could earn from picking up pop bottles the week before. I laid the dollar bill flat on the table and made some incantations and moved my hands around it and it began to move toward my hand. The old guys were not impressed.
Then it began to move sideways and reverse the direction. I put my hands into my lap! The bill kept moving. One old guy took his Swisher Sweet cigar out of his mouth and moved in for a closer look. They all moved in. I invited them to feel around the dollar bill for threads and look under the table for magnets. I got up and walked away and the bill was still weaving and bobbing all over the table. One old guy laughed and said, “Well, I’ll be da….sorry for the language, kid. That’s good!”
I picked up the bill and returned it to the shoe box. That night I never did explain how I did it. You see it only took a few days in Jacksonville to discover a brand new method of magical animation: A giant roach! Florida was filled with huge Palmetto bugs. I merely stuck one to the back of the dollar bill with a dab of magician’s wax! Once you stuck the bug on the back of a bill they were highly motivated to move.
Sometimes the best tricks are ones with a simple method!
Dennis Phillips
-Sir Erik Christopher Zeeman-
It was 1960 and I was 12 years old and deeply entranced with magic. My family lived in Norfolk, Virginia and my Dad was a Navy man. It was the height of the Cold war and the Russians might nuke us at any minute. Chubby Checker was singing "The Twist" and The Ventures had just released "Walk Don't Run".
I spent my evenings pouring over magic catalogs and there was an intriguing effect called "The Spirit Bell". It would ring and appear to read people's mind. It sold for an enormous amount of money! There was no way that I could afford it. I would have to mow lawns and deliver The Virginian Pilot newspaper all summer to get anywhere near the price.
The thrill of every month was visiting the magic club meeting at Earl Edward's Magic Shop in downtown Norfolk. Bob McAllister, the local WTAR-TV kid's show host was always there. He took a liking to the way I thought about magic. Twelve years later I would have my own syndicated TV show based in Charlotte, North Carolina and Bob and I would continue to be good friends as he ascended to Wonderama at WNEW-TV in New York.
I had to figure out a way to make a functional Spirit Bell. The trick was too amazing. I had no money but I had to make it work! I reasoned that it used a mechanical ringer. I played with having an assistant pull a fishing line to make a weighted ringer hit the bell. Nothing seemed clean and examinable. I wanted everything to be examinable.
It was a warm August night and my dutiful Navy father happened to be in port and drove me downtown to the meeting in the back of Earl's Shop. Edwards had a small stage and with seats in his inner sanctum. Bob introduced me. Earl had a small stage in back of his shop and I asked that all the lights be dimmed.
The Crystal Bell I was using was used without permission. It was from my parents wedding in 1947. I placed it on a plain undraped table that was sitting on a small rug. I passed the bell and the table for examination and returned the bell upright to the table.
"Bell, processor of the spirits, answer "yes" with one ring and "no" with two. Are you ready to read minds? One loud “ding”! The audience snapped to attention.
For the next few minutes the bell told the ages of young magicians, and answered everyone's questions with absolute accuracy. Following the routine I again brought the bell and the table down into the audience for complete examination. There were no gimmicks! No ringers. They were totally unprepared!
I thought that Earl and Bob and the assembled at the club would die from puzzlement. You know, it was one of those times when you know they were fooled out of their minds but they could not bring themselves to admit it.
After the meeting Bob grabbed me over to the side and said, "Kid, you fooled 'em! Got me too until I almost broke my neck!"
What Bob discovered and the others didn't was how I did the trick.
My kid-brother Kenny was backstage in the wings with a soda straw and a mouthful of BBs! He was pee shooting the "dings" on the bell through the straw! I needed the rug so you could not hear them fall.
Bob almost tripped over the BBs on the floor. That is what tipped him off as to what I was doing!
So, friends, if you ever want an unprepared "Spirit Bell", try the simplistic BB method! It works and fools magicians.
Later in the year my Dad was transferred to Mayport Naval Station near Jacksonville. He was assigned to an aircraft carrier, the USS Essex, CVA 8.
When we arrived in Jacksonville, I was convinced we had arrived in heaven. The sky was bright; the weather was balmy with beautiful palm trees and a beach. The only hint of hell was the stench of the paper mills. At first my Mom thought that someone was cooking cabbage all the time. We lived across the street from the Pittsburg Pirates spring training camp at Jacksonville Beach. Summer mornings were spent watching Ranger Hal on TV and afternoons meant a time with Skipper Al and Popeye cartoons in Channel 12. Jim Green and Fielding West would have their own shows on these TV stations a decade later.
I wasted no time in trying to find a magic shop and magician’s group. The pickings were slimmer than in Norfolk, Virginia. The big name in Jacksonville at that time was , “Mars the Magician”. His name was Alston Cockerill. He was a sort of Bill Neff character. He did ghost shows and phone room fund-raising and had a collection of illusions. The other main local guy was Bob Hutchings who had a small magic shop called, The Magic Shack. It was actually a small building in back of his house.
I was excited to find out that they had sporadic meetings and I forced my mother to drive me over on the next Friday night. Shortly after arriving in Florida I made an exciting discovery of a brand new magic principle! For a few years I had been pulling single strands of nearly invisible thread from my mother’s old nylon stockings. I used them to move cards and work my own version of The Wonder Mouse. We had not been in Jacksonville for a week when I discovered a brand new animation principle that was not available in Norfolk, Virginia and places up North.
I arrived at Hutchings Magic Shack and there was only another boy about my age and mostly older guys smoking cigars. It was a familiar smell that I remembered from Leroy Mingus’ shop in Reading, Pennsylvania. Mingus was known for making his feather flower props.
It was my turn to perform! Bob Hutchings quieted down the roundtable, “Guys, here is a young newcomer from Norfolk who wants to show us a trick. His name is Dennis, give him a hand”. I opened up a shoe box and removed a one dollar bill and explained that it was all I could earn from picking up pop bottles the week before. I laid the dollar bill flat on the table and made some incantations and moved my hands around it and it began to move toward my hand. The old guys were not impressed.
Then it began to move sideways and reverse the direction. I put my hands into my lap! The bill kept moving. One old guy took his Swisher Sweet cigar out of his mouth and moved in for a closer look. They all moved in. I invited them to feel around the dollar bill for threads and look under the table for magnets. I got up and walked away and the bill was still weaving and bobbing all over the table. One old guy laughed and said, “Well, I’ll be da….sorry for the language, kid. That’s good!”
I picked up the bill and returned it to the shoe box. That night I never did explain how I did it. You see it only took a few days in Jacksonville to discover a brand new method of magical animation: A giant roach! Florida was filled with huge Palmetto bugs. I merely stuck one to the back of the dollar bill with a dab of magician’s wax! Once you stuck the bug on the back of a bill they were highly motivated to move.
Sometimes the best tricks are ones with a simple method!
Dennis Phillips
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
2008-08 Famulus Newsletter - Ring 170
Newsletter of IBM Ring #170
The Bev Bergeron Ring
Next general meeting Wednesday, 08/20/2008 at 7:30 PM SHARP
Board meeting at 6:30 pm
Meeting theme: Foreign magic
Marks Street Center, 99 Mark Street, downtown Orlando
If you visit with us and do not know the room we meet in , please be aware that some of the people in the office at the Senior Center may not be aware we are meeting there! At the last meeting one visitor asked where the "IBM" was meeting and the management apparently thought they were asking for the International Business Machines group! They said that there was no "IBM" on the schedule. So, if you have never been to our ring meeting , please say "magicians" or "FAME" and if that doesn't get the room location , just walk around looking for us. The Senior Center is a public building.
Please note that the Ring meetings will be held at a new venue, starting in October. The new address is:
The Elks Club Lodge #1079,
12 N. Primrose Dr., Orlando, Florida 32803
“The corner of Primrose Drive and Central Boulevard”
Lunch meetings every Tuesday at noon at Goodings (next to the food court)
Website: http://www.ring170.com/
F. A. M. E. is the Florida Association of Magical Entertainers
*************************************************************
Directory
Craig J. Fennessy – President – CraigFennessy@gmail.com
Chris Dunn- Vice President – Youngdunns@yahoo.com
Art Thomas – Treasurer – Art.Thomas@Disney.com
Dennis Philips- Secretary – Dennis@alliedcostumes.com
James Songster- Director at Large, - JjTjMagic@aol.com
Joe Vecciarelli- Sgt at Arms - talkingmute@tampabay.rr.com
Stefan Bartelski – Editor of “Famulus”- Famulus@illusioneer.com
*************************************************************
GET PUBLISHED!
Got an idea for an article to add to the next FAMULUS? Put it in the body of an email or in a Word document attached to an email. Send it to Famulus@illusioneer.com, and we will get you in print.
Please, please, please, use the above e-mail address, your messages are in danger of getting lost if you do not do so.
The Bev Bergeron Ring
Next general meeting Wednesday, 08/20/2008 at 7:30 PM SHARP
Board meeting at 6:30 pm
Meeting theme: Foreign magic
Marks Street Center, 99 Mark Street, downtown Orlando
If you visit with us and do not know the room we meet in , please be aware that some of the people in the office at the Senior Center may not be aware we are meeting there! At the last meeting one visitor asked where the "IBM" was meeting and the management apparently thought they were asking for the International Business Machines group! They said that there was no "IBM" on the schedule. So, if you have never been to our ring meeting , please say "magicians" or "FAME" and if that doesn't get the room location , just walk around looking for us. The Senior Center is a public building.
Please note that the Ring meetings will be held at a new venue, starting in October. The new address is:
The Elks Club Lodge #1079,
12 N. Primrose Dr., Orlando, Florida 32803
“The corner of Primrose Drive and Central Boulevard”
Lunch meetings every Tuesday at noon at Goodings (next to the food court)
Website: http://www.ring170.com/
F. A. M. E. is the Florida Association of Magical Entertainers
*************************************************************
Directory
Craig J. Fennessy – President – CraigFennessy@gmail.com
Chris Dunn- Vice President – Youngdunns@yahoo.com
Art Thomas – Treasurer – Art.Thomas@Disney.com
Dennis Philips- Secretary – Dennis@alliedcostumes.com
James Songster- Director at Large, - JjTjMagic@aol.com
Joe Vecciarelli- Sgt at Arms - talkingmute@tampabay.rr.com
Stefan Bartelski – Editor of “Famulus”- Famulus@illusioneer.com
*************************************************************
GET PUBLISHED!
Got an idea for an article to add to the next FAMULUS? Put it in the body of an email or in a Word document attached to an email. Send it to Famulus@illusioneer.com, and we will get you in print.
Please, please, please, use the above e-mail address, your messages are in danger of getting lost if you do not do so.
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