AUGUST 2011

Jon Dorenbos
page 40
 AUGUST 2011
M-U-M • Volume 101 • Number 3

S.A.M. NEWS
6 From the Editor’s Desk
7 Chadwick’s Magical Wisdom
8 From the President’s Desk
11 M-U-M Assembly News
23 New Members and Reinstatements
24 Broken Wands
25 Good Cheer List
75 Our Advertisers 40
THIS MONTH'S FEATURE ARTICLES
10 Newsworthy
26 A Magician Prepares • by Dennis Loomis
27 The Power of Bending Air • by Tom Vorjohan & Daniel Herron
40 COVER STORY • by Marc DeSouza
50 The Houdini Award • by Julie Sobanski
52 Lucille Pierce • by Tom Ewing
56 Quick Look Book Nook: Curtain Call

REGULAR FEATURES 52
31 Tech Tricks • by Bruce Kalver
32 Nielsen Gallery: Iasia • by Tom Ewing
34 Basic Training: Cards to Wherever • by Ian Kendall
38 I Left My Cards at Home • by Steve Marshall
46 Under/Over • by Joshua Jay
54 Pro Files • by James Munton
61 Informed Opinion • New Product Reviews
72 Theory & Art of Magic • by Larry Hass
73 The Tax Magician • by Steve Snyder
74 I’ve Been Thinkin’ • by Norman Beck
76 The Dean’s Diary • by George Schindler
76 Basil the Baffling • by Alan Wassilak
78 Confessions of a Paid Amateur • by Rod Danilewicz 32
M-U-M (ISSN 00475300 USPS 323580) is published monthly for $40 per year by The Society of American Magicians,
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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to M-U-M, c/o Manon Rodriguez, P.O. Box 505, Parker, CO 80138.
 MAGIC - UNITY - MIGHT
Editor
Michael Close
Editor Emeritus
David Goodsell
Associate Editor
W.S. Duncan
Proofreader & Copy Editor
Lindsay Smith
Art Director
Lisa Close
Publisher
Society of American Magicians,
11086 S. Dartmoor Place
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AUGUST 2011 5
 FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
MICHAEL CLOSE

T
his column is the last Hank was the subject of the cover story by PNP Bradley
thing that gets writ- Jacobs in the June 2011 M-U-M. So long, Hank; you will be
ten each month; this missed.
is due not so much to pro- To compound the sad news, the magic world lost several
crastination (which I’m very other prominent people during the last week of June and the
good at), but rather to allow first week of July. Tom Ewing writes, “Houdini buffs and
the inclusion of any late-breaking news. The first week of magic history enthusiasts lost a real friend with the passing
July had lots of news, and, unfortunately, it was all bad. of Sid Radner on June 25. Sid was a leading authority on
As I’m sure most of you know by now, PNP Hank Houdini and frequently lectured at the annual Magic Col-
Moorehouse died July 2, 2011, while traveling in China lectors’ Association gatherings. At one time he owned
with a touring close-up show he produced. At the national Houdini’s original water torture cell, the oversized milk can
convention in Pittsburgh (which, at the time of this writing, that preceded the cell, scrapbooks, handcuffs, locks, picks,
is next week), Hank was to be the guest of honor. Hank’s and other secret devices used by the escape king. He obtained
memory will be honored with a celebration of his life. many of these directly from Hardeen, and later broadened
George Schindler offers some thoughts on his friend in the his collection significantly. Always interested in spreading
Dean’s Diary column on page 76. I’m sure that there will be Houdini’s name and fame, he was associated with the Houdini
some great Hank Moorehouse stories shared in Pittsburgh. Museum in Niagara Falls, the Outagamie Museum/Houdini
Here’s one from Dennis Loomis: Historical Center in Appleton, Wisconsin, and other public
“I’m still shocked at the news about my old pal Hank venues. This kind and gentle man will be missed.”
Moorehouse. Hank was a big influence as I started my pro- My old friend Jimmy Yoshida died on July 3, 2011. Jimmy
fessional career. For the brief period that he ran the small was a kind and charming man, who always seemed to have
magic shop in Ann Arbor, I was his Saturday afternoon a twinkle in his eyes and a smile on his face. He was a great
counter demonstrator. I also traveled with him to many con- host and a great ambassador for magic. Aloha, Jimmy.
ventions to help him run the booth. You may not know who B.J. Jennings was, but she was
“In his early years as a magician, Hank fell in love important in the lives of two of magic’s legendary greats,
with the vanishing cigarette in the handkerchief (thumb Dai Vernon and her husband, Larry Jennings. For a while,
tip version). He was a smoker, and seldom went out of the Vernon lived at the Jennings home. When Larry’s health
house without a thumb tip and a handkerchief. When Hank, declined, B.J.’s ministrations kept him alive longer than
Marcello Truzzi, and I founded Ring 210 in Ann Arbor, we would have been expected. After Larry’s death, B.J. moved
had an annual banquet with dinner and a show. To aid the to Las Vegas, and Lisa and I got to know her there. She was
treasury, we sold tickets to lay people as well. At our first fiesty and always fun to be around, and she had great stories
banquet, Hank was the emcee. To warm up the audience, he of life with Larry and the Professor. B.J. died on July 4, 2011.
had decided to do the cigarette vanish. He lit a cigarette, took On an upbeat note, Warren J. Kaps, chairman of The
out his pocket handkerchief, formed a cavity in the handker- Society of American Magicians Magic Endowment Fund,
chief with his thumb, and pushed the lit cigarette inside, as has announced that four young magicians have been
he had done thousands of times before. As he withdrew his awarded scholarships to two magic camps this summer. As
thumb, for some unknown reason, the thumb tip did not stay part of the Endowment Fund program, one will attend the
on, but flew up into the air and fell to the stage with a clatter. Sorcerer’s Safari Camp in Toronto, Canada, and three will
None of us who knew him could believe it, and neither could go to Tannen’s Magic Camp in suburban Pennsylvania. Here
Hank. He looked down at that thumb tip smoldering away are their names:
on the floor and said, ‘Oh, s#*t!’ Sorcerer’s Safari Winner: Mario Seki (age 13)
“The next week, Marcello and I went to a trophy shop Tannen’s Magic Camp Winners: Sean Burke (age 14),
in town and bought a small trophy, glued a thumb tip on to David Laid (age 13), and Yathundandh R.R. (age 13)
it, and had the plaque engraved with the words ‘Oh, s#*t!” The Society of American Magicians Magic Endowment
We presented it to him at our next meeting and we all had a Fund is proud of its achievement and growth, as well as
good laugh about it. Hank laughed the loudest, as we knew the expansion of its scholarship program, which enables
he would. deserving youngsters from all over the world to attend
“He was a gem, and one of a small group of people who magic camps. 
really helped me to get my career going in the first few years.
It’s hard to believe that he’s gone.”

6 M-U-M Magazine
AUGUST 2011 7
 FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK
VINNY GROSSO
Promises - When I ran iPhone/iPad/iPod touch.
for second vice president, I Something for Everyone - We recently released
made a video campaign piece the first Smartphone app for a magic organization, magicSAM.
outlining several goals I was The response has been amazing. In just the first month it has
committed to accomplishing. been downloaded approximately seven hundred times in eight
Thanks to the national presi- countries and installed on a thousand devices. It’s only going to
dents who preceded me, we get better, because we are diligently working on the next version!
were able to get them all done before I even became president. The We are also exploring porting the app over to other devices
final one happened this past June with the help of past presidents such as Android and Blackberry. Whenever we work on a project
Mike Miller and Mark Weidhaas, and RVP Jania Taylor. in the S.A.M., we always have to ask ourselves, “Is this a good
The goal was to produce magic shows in theaters that featured thing for our members?” There is no single program or service
young magicians and promoted the S.A.M. and S.Y.M. There are that we provide our members that is a perfect fit for everyone.
many people out there with a strong interest in magic, who have That’s why we try to offer as many unique benefits as we can, so
the potential to be great members of our society and local assem- there truly is something for everyone.
blies. Unfortunately, they are not aware of our organization, but With magicSAM, we wanted to lead the way with the first
they are aware of magic shows at their local theater. Smartphone app for a magic organization; we knew we were
So, when I had the opportunity to produce a family magic going to have to focus on one platform. We chose Apple’s iOS
show at Detroit’s Meadow Brook Music Festival, I capitalized platform because of its market reach. The number of downloads
on it. The show went over well; we featured two young and very and installs we’ve had the first month validates that decision.
talented magicians, TJ Ketchmark and Savannah Durocher. It’s Please send us your feedback on ways to improve the app, or let
too early to tell what impact this show will have on the Detroit us know of other platforms you would be interested in. I can’t
assembly, but all indications are that it was successful. We will promise we’ll be able to do everything that’s requested, but we
work to produce more of these shows and continue to fine tune will continue to strive to offer something for everyone.
the program. Travel Tips - I travel a lot, and I travel with people who
Membership Cards - When PNP Mike Miller met travel a lot. I have picked up many travel tips through the years,
Israeli deputy Yosi Notkovitz, our new style membership card and I will periodically share them with you here. One of my
was born. Yosi’s suggestion was a hard plastic card similar to a favorites is from Brad Sherwood. Brad is an improv artist who
credit card or hotel key – a card that doesn’t wear out and one that was regularly featured on Whose Line is It Anyway; he is perpetu-
you can be proud to show off to someone. We didn’t want to stop ally on tour with his improv partner Colin Mochrie. Brad likes a
there; we also decided that the card should reflect our rich history dark hotel room at night and was frustrated with the gap between
and feature past members of historical significance to the S.A.M. the curtains covering the window. His solution? Take a hanger
Each year, another member from our past would be highlighted, out of the closet, the one with clips for pants. Use the clips to join
making the membership card a collector’s item. We wanted to together the two curtains. Presto! You can now sleep in darkness.
take it even further; we are magicians, so shouldn’t our member- If you want to see more of Brad’s genius, check out Two Man
ship card be magical? Each year we will incorporate a new magic Group on Amazon.com; it’s a DVD of Colin and Brad’s improv
effect into the card. show.
This year I decided to feature past national president and Summer of Conventions Friends - The summer
former M-U-M editor Milbourne Christopher. Mr. Christopher is in full swing and so are magic conventions. Magic conventions
certainly did a lot for the S.A.M. and the art of magic, and his are not just great for the magic they provide, they’re also a great
legacy lives on through the Milbourne Christopher Foundation. way to catch up with friends you haven’t seen in a while.
The MCF presents their prestigious awards at the banquet of our Is it just me, or do we all go through the following cycle as a
national convention. This year, Maurine Christopher, wife of magician? As a young magician we go to our first convention and
the late Milbourne, was the guest of honor for the Life Member we don’t miss a single event. We practice newly learned effects
gathering. This is where the new membership cards were unveiled. between lectures, buy all that we can from the dealer’s room, and
I hope you enjoy your new membership card; you’ll receive leave with enough new things for two shows. It’s all about the
it when you renew your membership. I am very excited about magic. Then, as we get older and we go to conventions, we end
the new magic effect within the card. M-U-M columnist Steve up missing events because we’re too involved in a conversation
Marshall was the creative force behind it, and I think you’ll have with an old friend. The line-up of acts performing and lecturing
fun with it. becomes secondary to the friends who will be attending. It’s all
We also added a new feature to the life member’s cards – gold! about our friends in magic.
If you want the gold version of the membership card, contact our To use PNP Mark Weidhaas’s line: “You have a friend in the
life member chairperson Clem Kinnicutt at lifemembers@aol. S.A.M.” I hope to see you at one of the conventions! 
com. Also, if you’d like to learn more about Milbourne Christo-
pher you can read the article John Moehring wrote about him in —Vinny Grosso
M-U-M on either our Web site or via the magicSAM app for the

8 M-U-M Magazine
 S.A.M. National Officers
Dean: George Schindler, 1735 East 26th St.,
Brooklyn, NY 11229, (718) 336-0605, Fax (718)
627-1397, showbiz10@aol.com
President: Vinny Grosso, 270 Mansion St.,
Coxsackie, NY 12051 (518) 756-1891
vinny@vinnygrosso.com
President Elect: J. Christopher Bontjes, 2313
Atwood Ct., Danville, IL 61834 (217)431-4791
christopher@magicalentertainer.net
First Vice President: Dal Sanders, 3316
Northaven Rd, Dallas, TX 75229 (214) 902-9200,
DalSanders@StagemMagic.com
Secretary: Marlene Clark, 435 Main Street,
Durham, CT 06422, (860) 349-8149,
Skype: marlene.clark, afuntime@comcast.net
Treasurer: Mary Ann Blowers, 3 Christopher
Bluffs Court, St. Louis, MO 63129 (314) 846-8468
maryblowers@aol.com Skype: maryan.blowers

Regional Vice Presidents

New England: CT MA RI NH ME VT
Tucker B. Goodman, 7 Evans Road, #2,
Marblehead, MA 01945, (617) 901-5187,
tuckersmagic@gmail.com
North Atlantic: NY NJ
Pat Colby, samrvppat@gmail.com
Mid Atlantic: PA DE MD VAWV DC
David W. Bowers, 169 Tobin Dr., Chambersburg,
PA 17201(717) 414-7574,
amagicalexperience@live.com
South Atlantic: FL AL GA MS NC SC
Rick Hinze, (770)471-7558, r.hinze@earthlink.net
Central Plains: KY TN OH IN MI
Jania Taylor, (231)242-8242, magicjat@bright.net
Midwest: IL MN WI MO ND NE KS SD IA
Jeff Sikora, 13023 Crown Point Ave., Omaha, NE
68164 (402)-339-6726, jqmagic@cox.net
South Cental States: TX AR OK NM LA
Jeff Lanes, (713)850-1770, jeffie@texasfilm.net
Southwest: CA AZ NV HI
Kenrick “Ice” McDonald, PO Box 341034,
Los Angeles, CA 90034 (310)-559-8968,
kenrickicemcdonald@yahoo.com
Northwest: WA OR UT ID CO AK WY MT
Michael Roth, (503)493-8316,
msr@nwresources.com
Canada
Shawn Farquhar, (604)936-1234,
shawn@magicchampion.com
Society of Young Magicians Director
Jann Wherry Goodsell, 329 West 1750 North,
Orem, Utah 84057 (801) 376-0353.
bravesjann@comcast.net

Living Past National Presidents

Bradley M. Jacobs, Richard L. Gustafson, Roy A.
Snyder, Bruce W. Fletcher, James E.
Zachary, Frank W. Dailey, Cesareo Pelaez,
David R. Goodsell, William E. Andrews, Robert
A. Steiner, Fr. Cyprian Murray, Michael D.
Douglass, George Schindler, Dan Rodriguez,
Dan Garrett, Donald F. Oltz Jr., Craig Dickson,
Loren C. Lind, Gary D. Hughes, Harry Monti,
Jann Wherry Goodsell, Warren J. Kaps, Ed
Thomas, Jay Gorham, John Apperson, Richard
M. Dooley, Andy Dallas, Maria Ibáñez, Bruce
Kalver, Mike Miller, Mark Weidhaas.

AUGUST 2011 9
Newsworthy Updates From Our
S.A.M. Members
An Open Letter to magic, and demonstrated his
skill with coins, perform-
All Magicians: ing much of the magic in the
spectator’s hands.
Save money while you’re saving the world! In continuing A quick break gave the
efforts to support United States Armed Forces, The Society of crowd some time to shop.
American Magicians has recently begun offering discounted Diamond’s Magic was the
membership fees to active military personnel. Active military main attraction in the dealer
personnel have the opportunity to join or renew their member- area, with a large assortment
ship in the S.A.M. at the reduced rate of $35.00 at www.societyo- of books, videos, effects, and
famericanmagicians.memberlodge.org/memberappSAM. This props. Tony Karpinski was Eric Jones
membership includes monthly issues of M-U-M online and other also on hand, displaying his
member benefits. beautiful hand-crafted effects. As folks shopped, the professional
I was recently appointed by S.A.M. President Mark Weidhaas performers mingled with the crowd. Eric Jones was kind enough
to the position of Military Member Liaison. To make the new to offer advice on a book purchase, giving his seal of approval.
program effective, I will need the help of every magician who is There was plenty to learn from the evening’s three lecturers.
or has been in the military or who knows someone who is. Mark Weidhaas taught the history and secrets behind his highly
Additionally, we are making every effort to connect new successful character, Inspector Magic. Mark was completely
military members with the nearest assembly. We encourage those comfortable going in and
assemblies to extend personal and financial courtesies to the out of character, switching
military members. Please let us know about any incentives your between performing and
assembly offers to encourage participation by military personnel. teaching. He touched upon
Future issues of M-U-M will make special mention of these character development and
men and women who protect and serve Americans. Please help the importance of family
me with this endeavor by sending me contact information for any magic. Mark also offered
member of your assembly who is connected to any of the Armed tips on using a common
Forces so that I can introduce myself to them personally. thread throughout your per-
I sincerely thank you for helping us promote formance.
this worthwhile endeavor. I believe this program With twenty-three years
offers a win-win-win situation. It benefits the Tony Gangi of experience, Bob Carroll
new members, the assemblies, and magic! presented a great lecture
on performing school magic. He explained the business side of
Scott Hollingsworth,Military Member Liaison magic, as well as audience management and keeping the adults
scott@scotthollingsworth.com interested. The final lecturer, Eric Jones, taught some fantastic
close-up magic, including the
Invisible Cigarette, a truly
Convention in amazing effect, and a great
three-coin routine using un-
One Night 2011 gimmicked coins.
During the course of the
Is it possible to have a magic convention in one night? Ab- evening, Mark Weidhaas
solutely! May 3, 2011, marked the Rhode Island Societies of presented Presidential
Magicians fifth Convention in One Night, and it was a great Citations to Bob Carroll and
success. Bruce Kalver did a fantastic job of organizing the event, Bruce Kalver for their many
which included close-up and stage shows, as well as lectures and years of dedication to the art
Bob Carroll
a dealer area. Many guests were of magic.
in attendance, including S.A.M. The night ended with a great stage show. Bob Carroll opened
President Mark Weidhaas and with a hilarious ventriloquism routine, even bringing Bruce
Eric Jones, who was recently Kalver into the act. Vinny Grosso took a more serious approach,
featured in an M-U-M cover performing magic with cards and silks. Getting back to the
story. humorous side was Tony Gangi and his whacky sideshow.
The night opened with some Mark Weidhaas brought us back to more traditional magic,
great close-up magic from performing magic with money and changing the color of 45-rpm
Mark Weidhaas and Eric Jones. records. Alexanderia is one of the few female escape artists in the
Mark, looking very dapper, world, and she was kind enough to take the stage as well. Eric
performed an excellent set of Jones closed the show with a polished set of magic.
magic. His performance was Huge thanks to Bruce Kalver for organizing everything, and
both baffling and entertaining. to all of the guests and performers who made this a most enjoyable
Eric performed some nice card Alexanderia convention. —Chris Natale

10 M-U-M Magazine
 ASSEMBLY NEWS
Society of American Magicians Monthly News

AUGUST 2011 Volume 101, Number 3

Send your reportS to:

assemblyreports@googlemail.com

1 Paul Hallas
Schneider
Lecturer
Eric DeCamps. Because we
have many new members,
Meir gave a beautiful history
members could show tricks
that they bought at the auction
or tricks purchased from the
Rem handed out the trophies to
those individuals who placed
first, second, and third in the
of this lecture and the man it Colombinis. Corky showed close-up and stage contests
New York, NY— A honors. At times it was quite Dean’s Box, Rob Shapiro this year. He then presented the
visitor to the Magic Table for touching, because it came presented the Needle through prestigious Charles H. Hopkins
many years, Albert Callus of from the heart. He then intro- Balloon, and Hippo Lau did award to long-time Assembly
Assembly 168 was in from duced the lecturer, Paul Hallas. a nice presentation of a giant 4 member Charles Murter – a
New Jersey with Marco and One nice thing was that Paul’s Three Card Monte. The Colom- gentleman in every sense of
Tim Fortune this month. Marco lecture was filled with effects binis were represented by Jack the word. A round of applause
did a beautiful effect with a that were within the abilities Langdell doing Restless Cards, was then given to outgoing
key. We had a great time with of any of the fifty people who Stu Bacon showing Mind President Ed Hanisco for all of
them. They joined the regulars, attended the lecture. It was a Reading Past and Present, and his hard work this year as he
PP Jerry Oppenheimer and his wonderful lecture and night at Walt Johnson doing a nice passed the gavel and wand on
wife Lee, myself, Secretary the PA 1. —Tom Klem multiple cut and restored rope. to incoming President Ralph
Pat Colby, and board members Parent Assembly One– Meets The others brought magic Armstrong.
Jordan Linker, Rene Clement, the first Friday 8 PM at Mt. of their choosing: Rich and
and Richard Bossong. The Sinai Medical Center, 1425 Bob Kuhn did great things
Table meets Fridays from 12:30 Madison Avenue (96th Street), with cards, Bill Langell did a
on for lunch at the Edison Hotel New York, New York. mental effect with pennies, and

2
Café on 47th Street between Tamaka made a card disappear
7th and 8th Avenue in Times COLOMBINI from a metal box and appear
Square. LECTURE in a previously shown empty
Our monthly meeting was canister. The interesting aspect
held on June at Mount Sinai. SAN FRANCISCO, CA— of Tamaka’s presentation was
President Ken Ferst was A second May meeting was that the two pieces of apparatus
absent, so First VP Margaret scheduled in order to have were well over seventy-five
Steele started meeting at 7:30. Aldo and Rachel Colombini years old and were recently
The first order of business lecture as part of their Final restored to working condition.
was our annual election of the Tour. It was well worth the ad- The evening was further
Board of Directors. This went ditional meeting, because the enhanced by cookies that
very smoothly. Admission’s Colombinis not only are great Corky brought. They dis-
Chairman Bob Friedhoffer magicians, they also have a appeared without any false
announced that we had two wonderful sense of humor. shuffles, cuts, or other sleights. Stuart Rudnick,
new members to swear in. They The repartee between Rachel —Stu Bacon our emcee for the evening
were Ed Checkett and Jared and Aldo kept us laughing Golden Gate Assembly 2 meets
Molton. Sworn in they were, while they baffled us with the first Wednesday at 7:30 After the award ceremony, the
welcomed by the assembly. their magic. Rachel was very PM in the Community Room stage show began, for which
Then First VP Margaret Steele, open about her recent major of the Taravel Police Station, Stuart Rudnick ably served
producer of this year’s Salute, surgery and thanked us for our 2345 24th Ave. San Francisco. as the masters of ceremonies.
gave signed posters from thoughts, prayers, and contri- Contact: Tamaka. 415 531- The first act consisted of a
our Salute staring Thomas butions. 9332,Tamaka3715@aol.com dazzling number of effects

4
Solomon to all those who Our regular June meeting had performed in lightning fast
worked so hard on this year’s an excellent teaching portion; ANNUAL succession by surprise guests
show. Bill Gleason was singled the subject was false shuffles BANQUET Arlen Solomon, Eric Lampert,
out with an award and a special and false cuts. Corky LeVallee PNP Dick Gustafson, Ed
award was given to Thomas began with a number of false PHILADELPHIA, PA— Hanisco, Bob Little, Professor
Solomon to a nice round of shuffles that to the uniniti- In June, over one hundred Rem, Reba Strong, Jeff Carson,
applause. George Silverman ated looked like the real thing. members and their guests Tom Ewing, Joe Mogar, and Al
announced a special workshop. Similarly, the false cuts had the attended our annual banquet, Lloyd. Following this array
Other committee reports were appearance of true deck cutting which featured an amazing of talented performers, Sam
given. The meeting was then but did nothing to rearrange array of talent. Following the Sandler took to the stage and
ended with ritual. the cards. Rich Sequine added cocktail hour, during which we performed a colorful, dazzling,
The after-meeting event a few cuts to round out the were treated to the keyboard fast paced act involving the
was The Willie Schneider teaching program. magic of Ralph Armstrong, production of silks, dyed dove,s
Memorial Lecture produced The theme for the magic was everyone enjoyed a sumptuous and streamers before ending
by Meir Yedid. Meir Yedid twofold. Since we held an buffet dinner. After dinner, with a very funny mouth coil
was introduced by PA 1 Dean auction at the May meeting, Assembly 4 Dean Professor production with the assistance

AUGUST 2011 11
ASSEMBLY NEWS
of audience member Ed Cohen. of shiny stuff from her bag of Plyes and Betty Winzig. This then vanished it in a paper
The delightful Kimberly tricks. She was in the running was followed by the evening bag. He then performed a
Matthews then performed a for the prize just by wearing entertainment – the War of card effect with a poker hand
beautiful silk act set to music, the right outfit! Each member the Wizards – a showdown changing from an Ace high to
which included the production of the audience received a between S.A.M. and I.B.M. a royal flush. Last he mystified
of multiple doves and culmi- Diamond Pin (a dime and pin). members. a young spectator with a
nated with their transformation Jeff Sikora brought Aaron First up was Chuck Arkin magically written message on a
into an adorable white rabbit. Pierce out of the audience and (I.B.M.) who performed a chalkboard. The War was won
Next, George Hample wowed was graced by a shiny hat and funny escape routine involving by I.B.M. Ring 71. Assembly
the crowd with his very own scarf that Jeff used to baffle us. a spectator and his wife, who 11 is eagerly awaiting next
torn and restored M-U-M effect Bruce Jacoby performed one of pleaded his case. He did suc- year’s War! —John Martini
followed by an amazing milk the most amazing feats I have cessfully free himself from Queen City Mystics, SAM
vanish and reappearance inside the locked stocks. Don Hinton Assembly 11 generally meets
a lighted table lamp. Finally, (S.A.M.) performed a series on the 2nd Friday of the month
Jim Daly ended the show with of effects, beginning with at Haines House of Cards in
his signature comedy bill appearing and disappearing Cincinnati, Ohio.

13
in lemon effect, which had coins and silks, a card effect
everyone in hysterics. Without with a prediction, and then a David Hira
question, the 2011banquet was three prediction effect using Lectures and
one of the best we have ever random coins and a young Emcees
had. —Peter Cuddihy spectator in orange athletic
James Wobensmith Assembly gear. Dallas, TX— David Hira
4 meets third Thursday at 7:00 Frank Johnston (I.B.M.) presented a lecture on the art of
p.m. at the Bustleton Memorial performed his comically being a master of ceremonies
Post, 810 (American Legion) clever silk magic routine. It (emcee), then demonstrated
9151 Old Newtown Road. In- included cane to silk, rose to these techniques by introduc-
formation: www.sam4.org/ silk, disappearing black silk, ing the performers for the

7
silk to candle, and disappear- night. The first performer of
Time to ing candle. This was followed the evening was Geoff Grimes.
Shine Bruce Jacoby
by a change bag routine where Geoff performed his Chinese
several colored silks turn into Sticks routine, followed by an
Omaha, NE— To open a long, long and wide multi- anniversary-themed trick. Two
the meeting President Larry ever witnessed! After setting colored silk ribbon. Denny spectators were handed a stack
Brodahl started this year’s up his sound system, with the Metz (S.A.M.) had two vol- of large cards, with “values”
series of “Find a book in our push of one button the lights unteers select a card and they such as “listen to each other.”
library/ perform the trick/ went out in the entire building then transmitted their selection Each spectator shuffled their
explain it/tell us what book it’s (and the tornado sirens started to the other via a clothesline stack and set one card aside.
in” with an illusion from The to wail). After the audience attached to two plungers on top They then went through the
Amazing Book of Magic and first found a safe place, we of their heads – a very funny shuffled cards one at a time
Card Tricks by Tremayne. managed to reassemble and bit. He then has a spectator to see how “compatible” their
This month we had a contest talked Bruce into completing select a card and the deck of values were. Unfortunately for
with a $50 prize. The theme his act. Is it no surprise that cards disappeared in the spec- the newlyweds, only two of
was “Shiny,” but this was left he won the contest? If you tator’s hand, leaving him with the five sets matched. Fortu-
to interpretation and was most hire him for a performance, his chosen card. nately, the cards set aside at the
interesting to note how each of you should ask him to perform beginning were “emergency
ten performers interpreted the this effect. Better yet contact cards,” one reading “Give her
guidelines. Bruce and ask if he will sell your first paycheck” and the
The order was determined you the technique. He won $50. other “and every one thereaf-
by random drawing; first up —Jerry Golmanavich ter…”
was Pete Petrashek with the Omaha Magical Society The second performer was
shiniest mirror I’ve ever seen. meets on the third Monday of Brad Ingle. Five card pairs
With his help a scarf and most months at the Southwest were selected. The two sets of
ball de-materialized into and Church of Christ, 124th St. and cards were shuffled, and Brad
behind the mirror. Tom Neddo W. Center Rd. - Across from then proceeded to spell out the
performed Waterfall, during Hooters. phrase “Will the faces match?”

11
which his shiny cups kept the by transferring cards from the
water from falling on our Presi- Summer D. Metz, F. Johnston, D. Hinton, top to the bottom of the stack.
dent’s head. Johnny Impossible Picnic P. Delholt, C. Arkin, A spectator was allowed at any
did a Coins Across routine with P. Thermes time during the process to call
shiny coins. Bob Buczkowski Cincinnati, OH— The out “SWITCH!” causing Brad
entertained with a string and June meeting of the Queen City Paul Delholt (aka Presto Paul) to switch to the opposite stack
(shiny) ring routine – one of his Mystics Assembly 11 was a joint performed an Ambitious Card and continue spelling. At the
signature effects. summer picnic with the I.B.M. routine with a blank deck of end of the phrase, the top cards
President Larry Brodahl Ronald Haines Ring 71. It was cards, completely mystifying a of each stack were set aside as
presented a larger (shiny) ring held at a lodge and picnic area young spectator. He then had a a pair. After all five pairs were
and string routine. Denny at Lake Isabella in Loveland, spectator randomly (by thirds) dealt out, each was displayed to
Rourke did a shiny cup and Ohio, on a beautiful spring- cut a deck of cards and came up show that they were identical
water routine he called Aqua like day. It was afternoon of with nine cards representing a pairs.
Binaca – and didn’t wet the games, fellowship, adults en- phone number of the specta- The third performer was
rug. Roger Reese performed tertaining kids, kids entertain- tor’s soul mate. The phone Ian Richards. The Ten of
Jackrobats, in which cards ing adults, magic yard sale/flea number was Paul’s! Diamonds was selected by a
turned into shiny mirrors. market, and raffle. A picnic Patrick Thermes (S.A.M.) spectator and replaced in the
Joyce Chleboun produced tons dinner was catered by Micki produced a coke bottle and deck. Multiple attempts to find

12 M-U-M Magazine
 ASSEMBLY NEWS
the card, including the assis- All in all it was a great Houston, TX— In June, so we could get right into
tance of a mouse, resulted in evening of fun, friends, and Phil Kampf presented an the evening’s highlight – the
selection of the Two of Hearts. magic. Until we meet again… overview of magical presenta- “Farewell” lecture by Aldo and
Ian eventually destroyed the —John Bryant tion as the teach-in session. One Rachel Colombini! We were
offending card, and asked Sam 16 meets every first of the top items Phil kept men- privileged to host their only
Nathan Himes to step up and Monday of the month at the tioning was that you must
select another card from the magic barn in Ashland, MA. know your character. One
deck. Nathan, of course, found For more information contact needs to know how he is
the Ten of Diamonds! Ian then Ken Maynard at Maddjic195@ going to act and what his
asked Nathan to wave a wand msn.com response is going to be to

17
over the deck, and suddenly all situations and questions.
of the cards in the deck were Card Magic Phil recommended that
the Ten of Diamonds. Never Gets Old taking a class in theater
The final performer was at one of the working
Daryl Sprout, the Magical Springfield, MA— theaters in town would be
Herpetological Humorist. Jeff Prozyca started off the very helpful. Phil’s many
Daryl performed a number of night with a great card club years of working as a pro-
effects, all centered around sandwich and then did a Jim fessional magician along
his favorite creatures – snakes. Pace version of Oil and Water. with his theater back-
Effects included wand to Rich Gilbert’s use of double- ground were very evident Jason Abate counts cards into Aldo’s
snake, balloon to snake, and backed cards caused a King of in his presentation. Bill palm. (Steve Wronker photo)
even launching a giant snake Clubs to switch to a King of Palmer shared some very
into the audience. David Hira Hearts in the spectator’s hand. valuable lessons learned as Connecticut appearance. They
wrapped the show, and then He then showed us the new he developed his Merlin the were quick to stress that they
held a question/answer session Houdini vanish card escape. Magician character over time. were not retiring from magic,
about the night and about Ed Kazar amazed us using Jim Bill of course perfected the just from touring.
emceeing in general. Sisti’s Mixed Symbols ESP Merlin character that was so This was a wonderful talk,
Dallas Magic Club Assembly routine. PJ Pinsonnault did a widely known at the Texas starting with a champagne toast
13 meets the third Tuesday nice Ace production, spelling Renaissance Festival. We had to Rachel. In between tricks we
of each Month at 7 p.m. out the Ace of Clubs, and then lots of audience interaction and were told stories of their being
Crosspointe Church and he showed us another card club this topic went over very well. on the road, the details behind
Community Center www.dal- sandwich, only in slow motion. Thanks Phil for sharing this in- Rachel’s successful surgery,
lasmagic.org for directions. Rich Pinsonault had four formation. and a few gag tricks (for
Check out the Dallas Magic Queens traveling with Larry The annual Memorial Day example, vanishing a thumb
Club on Facebook! Jennings’s Simple Stencil. BBQ at Dr. Rex Crago’s home tip), and some giveaways.

16
Conrad McIntyre made it look was another hit with over The highlights of the lecture
Rachel & Aldo easy with a lazy man, any sixty peope in attendance. In were: Zodiac Code, in which
Columbini’s card, any number, using just addition to the fine food, there a color linked to a specta-
Farewell Tour the Two through Nine. Dave was some great magical en- tor’s birthday is predicted; An
Dimock performed the Third tertainment presented by Alex Empty Envelope, a gag pre-
Ashland, MA— Monday’s Choice by Corinda, and Tom Rangel and John Star, among diction effect; a cute cut-and-
meeting was none other than Gentile finished up with Cody others. restored rope routine that goes
spectacular. There were Fisher’s comedy card predic- Eric Evans stopped into by the prosaic name of Cutting
twenty-five members and tion, tearing up a card over and Houston on May 10 to present The Rope In Three; Five-Card
guests present. We enjoyed over again. a fine lecture that was well Mystery, wherein a blank card
a wonderful meal provided Later in the month, Aldo attended. If you get the chance vanishes among red cards;
by Peter Lentros and then and Rachel Colombini came to see him perform, you will not Ring On Rope, using, believe
proceeded to enjoy our to visit for a spell, stopping want to pass it up. Please visit it or not, a scrunchy, to remove
evening with Rachel and Aldo by on their Farewell Tour. We houstonmagic.com to keep up a ring but leave the knot; A
Columbini presenting their learned so many new and easy with all the latest magical hap- Mental Trick, in which one card
farewell tour. They will still be tricks. Rachel impressed us penings in the Houston area. chosen from a pile matches the
lecturing but not on a full-time all with her beautiful paper We wish to thank our prediction; Cidentaquin, which
basis. During their fantastic cup and ball routine and Aldo magical performers for the uses ESP cards to find the four
magic lecture, they also shared kept us laughing with every June meeting. They were matches to a spectator’s chosen
some details about Rachel’s trick. This was their third visit Bill Palmer, John Star, Gene card; Stranger In Paradise,
heart surgery last year and to our assembly. We will miss Protas, David Hinken, Rick wherein a choice is revealed
how amazing her recovery has them, because they always Hebert, Phil Kampf, David as the only red in a blue deck;
been. brought us great magic, lots Rangel, Sigmund Potocki, and Houdini Card, in which a card
The evening included, but was of fun, and wonderful stories. Alex Rangel. —Miles Root escapes from two rubber-
not limited to, ESP predictions, Next month we’ll be heading SAM 19 meets the first bands and a square of tinfoil;
rope routines, a new twist on out for our annual Summer Monday of every month at the Three-Way Miracle Prediction,
the ring and rope, the book test, Sizzler Picnic at Look Park. IATSE Local 51 Meeting Hall, in which the final composition
card magic, and the spectacular —Karen L. Gibson 3030 North Freeway, Houston, of three card piles is predicted;
disappearing thumb tip! Dr. I.R. Caulkins Assembly #17 TX. A teaching lecture begins Jumbo Prediction, a stunner in
During intermission, we meets the first Friday of every at 7:30 pm with the meeting which a selected card matches
were treated with strawberry month at 7 pm at the Grand beginning at 8:00 pm. a jumbo card, but the deck

21
shortcake provided by Peter Meadows Tennis Club, Dwight proves to consists of duplicates
Lentros. The rest of the evening Road, East Longmeadow, MA THE COLOMBINIS of an entirely different card;
was magical, as Rachel and www.assembly17.org IN CONNECTICUT Restless Colors, in which a

19
Aldo concluded their lecture pack of duplicates change their
by sharing more magic and Knowing Your West Hartford, CT— back colors, then become Aces;
stories about their travels and Character The club decided to waive Tri-Color Cups and Balls, as
experiences. our regular business meeting performed by Rachel – it uses

AUGUST 2011 13
ASSEMBLY NEWS
no balls, just rolled-up colored internationally. David also tants for making this a great building a routine, as well as
tissue, with a surprise ending. performs magic in the classic evening. —Chris Natale several references for those
—Dana Ring style. His top hat and cane C. Foster Fenner, Assembly 26 who wished to pursue this
Bill Greenough Assembly #21 quickly became a table as meets first Tuesday each month interest.
meets 2nd Monday (except he did a short silk knotting from September to June at 7 On Saturday, June 18, we held
December) at Angelo’s on routine. Zerbel then performed pm at the American Legion an initiation for four of our
Main in West Hartford, CT. a ball manipulation and mul- Auburn Post 20, 7 Legion Way, members, Jim Driscoll, Mal
www.sam21.org tiplying ball effect. His act Cranston, RI. Simpson, Martin Baratz, and

22 30
concluded with his own three- Rory Gullion. It was a very
ASSEMBLY 22 – 80 ring routine. Building a meaningful ceremony, with re-
YEARS OLD Southern California Assembly Routine freshments afterward. Now, if
22 meets the 3rd Monday each we can just get the goat back in
Los Angeles. CA— The month at 8:00 P.M., St. Thomas Atlanta, GA— Our the cage. —Carol Garrett
Southern California Assembly Moore Parish Hall, 2510 So. program director, Debbie Atlanta Society of Magicians,
22 celebrated its 80th anniver- Fremont Ave., Alhambra, CA Leifer, hosted the post-dinner Julian V. Boehme/Walter S.
sary at its annual banquet on Information: 213/382-8504 performance. Dan Garrett Bell Assembly #30 Meets

26
June 12, 2011. It was again held was our first performer. He the second Thursday at
at Steven’s Steak & Seafood in Talent and mystified the audience with Picadilly Cafeteria, I-85
the City of Commerce, a few Trickery linking rubber bands and torn & North Druid Hills Rd.
miles southeast of downtown and restored rubber bands. We For more info: Web site:
Los Angeles. A fine meal was Providence, RI— The are looking forward to his pro- http://www.sam30atlanta.org

35
enjoyed by everyone after an warm weather has finally fessional development session
early cocktail hour. After the arrived, and so has the annual on rubber bands next month. A FOND
meal, toastmaster and show RISM’s Got Talent contest. Preston Turner, son of Joe FAREWELL
emcee, John Engman, began Before the contest, Jeff Smith Turner, showed us his magical
the program with the installa- taught several Aldo Colombini rock that magnifies objects, POUGHKEEPSIE, NY –
tion of the 2011-2012 assembly packet tricks. Jeff is always fun which he got at a science We were one of the lucky as-
officers and directors. to watch, and a great instruc- museum. It was an interesting semblies who were a stop on
PNP Ed Thomas conducted tor to boot. And, he was nice piece and we were glad to have Aldo and Rachel Colombini’s
the ceremony to install our enough to donate the tricks to Preston visiting with us. Farewell Tour. Thirty-five
new officers. Immediate Past the club’s monthly raffle. Joe Turner could not afford a attendees helped make this one
President Bill Yamane gave a With a quick break, it was Dean Dill box, so he used his of our best-attended meetings
short valedictory address and time to start the talent show. hands instead and made a red in quite some time. After a
incoming President Jim Callen Round one of the contest pitted and white rope link together. brief summary of happenings
presented a very amusing ac- Dan Cipolla against Jeff Smith, He also had his deck of cards in Aldo and Rachel’s lives, we
ceptance speech as he begins Andrew Cipolla against Ed Hill, do a trick for him by allowing were treated to several hours
what typically is a two-year and Cameron Ramsay against the spectator to perform all the of magic and fun. Rachel’s
term in office. Our assembly Sean Dale. Dan’s card and coin magic. Joe had a card chosen performance of Zodiac Code
has always been fortunate to to orange were two really nice for him and the spectator also was wonderful. An Empty
have competent and dedicated effects. Jeff performed a great had a card chosen. Both cards Envelope was a great predic-
leadership. card routine using magic paint. were found at the end. tion effect by Aldo. The entire
The 80th anniversary gala The routine is well thought out, Joe Morrison brought a light
show opened with the colorful and flows nicely through each board with various colored
and fast-moving act of Stoil & phase. Andrew inserted his cell lights and switches. The corre-
Ekatrina. Set to music, Stoil & phone into a balloon, and then sponding light would light with
Ekatrina present a very unique made an amazing cell phone the same color switch even
act. Ted “Suds” Sudbrack was call. Ed’s entry was the most when the bulbs or switches
our next performer and, as ambitious, performing magic were mixed.
always, it was full of humor and with the Statue of Liberty. Jim Mangham had his wife set
fun. Suds is a long-time Los Cameron did some great rose/ up a trick with a red deck and a
Angeles area performer and napkin magic, while Sean en- blue deck. He had the red deck
magic manufacturer/dealer. tertained the crowd with a great cut several times until only one
Suds’s paper tearing tricks rendition of Coins Across. card remained. When the blue
have become classics. His The judges voted, and only deck was opened, the matching
repeat Anderson Newspaper three contestants remained. card had an X inscribed on it.
Tear was not only funny, it was Round two pitted Dan, Ed, Daryl Berman presented a ring
a baffler. The third performer, and Cameron in a three-way and string effect by pulling the
David Benitez, aka “Marsan,” battle. Dan performed a rising ring from the string when it
attired in a tuxedo and por- card poster, Ed selected magic was attached by a knot. He also
traying the image of a classic with an Egyptian theme, and borrowed a flip phone; when
magician, opened with a card Cameron performed some ESP. the string was inside the phone, Rachel and Aldo Colombini
manipulation routine and card The judges were left with the music would play. entertain Assembly 35
fan productions. Picking coins difficult task of eliminating Our Professional Develop-
from the air, he then presented one contestant. ment series continued with night was filled with a lot of
a nice Miser’s Dream coin pro- Round three gave us Dan John Miller presenting how wonderful back-and-forth
duction. Marsan finished his against Cameron, in a battle to routine your effects. He between the duo. We enjoyed
act with a very smooth linking to the finish. Dan’s Not Knot presented one of his favorite card effects, rope tricks,
ring routine and the now seldom Silks was a real crowd pleaser, effects, Roy Walton’s Cascade, amazing feats of mentalism,
seen Zombie floating ball. A but ultimately Cameron would just as a trick, then presented and so much more. Between
class act in every respect. take the prize with a fantastic it again with a routine he effects were treated to the
Closing the show was David monster card production. developed that suited his style jokes you would expect when
Zerbel, another Los Angeles Thanks to Jeff Smith, the of presentation. John also Aldo and Rachel are perform-
magician who has performed judges, and all of the contes- handed out suggestions for ing. They have a wonderful

14 M-U-M Magazine
 ASSEMBLY NEWS
rapport and kept us laughing tion. Peter Fox ate part of a when you have Gene Anderson
all night long. If you have the card and then spat it back on. on the bill. Everyone loves
opportunity to see them on He then blew a hole in a card Gene – that face, that look, that
their last lecture tour, put it on and moved it around the card. talent, and he is still single, go
your calendar – you won’t be It was weird to see. figure. He did his paper act, of
disappointed. Thank you Aldo Gene Fein did a card control course; it is still great to watch
and Rachel for a terrific night in which a selected card became and has been updated with a
of magic. Assembly members, the only one in the deck facing lot of new and good jokes that
be sure to check out the Web the opposite direction; it then all fit Gene perfectly. He also
site for more information on changed into a different color
our revised summer schedule. back. Mel Panzer did a four
—Craig Kunaschk card mental selection with the
Al Baker Assembly No. 35 cards also being the only ones
(usually) meets at 7:30 p.m. facing in the opposite direction
on the second Tuesday of the in the deck at the end. Sid
month at the Milanese Italian Marcus performed a mental
Restaurant, 115 Main Street, clock-setting stunt in which the
Poughkeepsie, NY. Check out Mark Weidhaas performing a spectator set the dial on a clock
our website at compumagic. segment of his Inspector and it matched the predicted
com/sam35 to confirm time Magic show clock setting previously set by
and meeting location. Sid on another clock.
Al Hernandez, a street
Gene Anderson lecture

37
a hilarious finish was the team magician visitor, performed
Kid-Dab-Ra! of Jeff and Karen Wake. Jeff several outstanding card flour-
took on the role of a princess ishes with the four Aces, even performed the preacher act,
looking for an elusive dragon. though they were mixed into and since we were meeting in
Denver, CO— A number The dragon turned up on the the deck by several specta- a church, it just seemed right.
of children attended our June back of a child assistant playing tors. Michael Easler brought David Sandy, after having two
meeting Kid-Dab-Ra, as the part of a knight. his friend “Woody” to do some performers do acts similar
special guests of the Mile High As if this wasn’t enough, ventriloquism. Woody was to what he had planned, put
Magicians. Karen Wake then treated hilarious. Emcee Billy Byron together a great set. He went
Emcee and club president everyone to her delicious also brought a friend, “Antonio to the dealer’s table, good
Connie Elstun got things off to cupcakes. Kid paradise! The Great,” a puppet squirrel for them, bought a couple
a perfect start by introducing Connie hung several baby who performed several tricks of classics and wowed the
us to members of the cast of her pictures of Mile High members for the crowd. All in all, it was audience, both the laymen and
Bunny and Birdie Magic Show. on a board and everyone had a fun night. —Billy Byron the magicians who were there.
We were particularly pleased to guess who they were. Add Assembly 49 meets second Joe Turner started the show,
with participation by some new on face-painting and balloons Wednesday - 7:30 Margate Wayne Clemons did a great job
members of our club, including and it was a great evening. City community Center. of emceeing the show and also

50
Lewis Peacock. Lewis thrilled We also raffled a ticket to the doing the award winning act
the audience by pouring Magic in the Rockies conven- “Magic Day” of “Out Source” with his life
different colored liquids from tion coming up in Fort Collins, partner Shank Kothare. Thanks
the same teapot. There was an Colorado, the second weekend to Mike Pyle, Trix, Tim, Shank
explanation, however, because of September. —Dave Elstun Nashville, TN— Gene , and Dick for all the hard work
dry handkerchiefs the same SAM Assembly 37 is The Mile Anderson and David Sandy they put in. Kevin King offered
color as the liquid were pulled High Magician’s Society and were the stars of our Magic prizes for anyone who could be
from the teapot. Next up was meets on the 2nd Thursday Day. It all started with a kick-off the first to yell out what animal
club member Inspector Magic, at 7:00 P.M. in the River- lecture by Joe Turner from he was making with his unique
aka PNP Mark Weidhaas. Pointe Senior Community, Atlanta. Saturday began with a balloons arts; there were no
Mark featured highlights from 5225 South Prince St. Denver, lecture from Stephen Bargatze, winners. —Stephen Bargatze
his show, including something CO 80123. Our Website is with lectures from David Music City Mystics meets third
that only the grandparents in w w w. m i le h ig h m a g ic i a n s . Sandy, and Gene Anderson to Tuesday at 7:00PM at the It’s
the audience knew about – com. Connie Elstun is the follow later in the day. There Magic! Theater, Hermitage.
records that changed colors. President her E-mail address is was also a time during which www.nashvillesam.com

52
Mark also featured a cool connie@emagicpro.com attendees were allowed to get

49
trick with colored pom-poms up and do a trick that they had Installation
changing places and a card Clocks, been working on and receive of Officers
trick that used a large number Watches, or tips from a panel made up of Banquet
of assistants. Cards the acts that were booked for
New member Michele Lutz Magic Day as well as some of SAN ANTONIO, TX— June
also used a number of assis- Ft. Lauderdale, FL— The the other attendees. Two who 2, 2011, Brother John Hamman
tants to psychically find some themes for our June meeting participated were Tim Grant Assembly 52 held its annual In-
colored stones hidden in their were Clocks/Watches/Cards, of Memphis and Ed Riply of stallation of Officers Banquet
hands and to make a rod change or Ventriloquism/Puppetry, Knoxville; both had really put at the Spaghetti Warehouse.
colors. The Amazing Dave or Blocks, or Mentalism, or a lot of work into their acts and Outgoing president Don
Elstun introduced members Science Magic. in doing so got lots out of the Moravits planned a great
of the audience to a stoplight President Billy Byron emceed session. Thanks to them and evening of fun, food, and en-
that creates mass confusion by the proceedings. First up was the others who took part. tertainment. Don welcomed
flashing the same color in all Mark Horowitz, who brought Just over two hundred people members and their guests as
directions. He finished with a some gaffed cards and wallets enjoyed a great Saturday night they dined on Italian Cuisine.
see-through egg storage bag from his collection. Anyone show, performed by Gene A big thank you goes out
from which eggs appeared and who knows Mark knows of Anderson and friends. Let’s be to Geoffrey and Tabitha
disappeared. Bringing it all to his extensive magic collec- honest, you just can’t go wrong Sadowski for providing their

AUGUST 2011 15
ASSEMBLY NEWS
the month at La they organized a fabulous
Madeleine Res- last-meeting-before-summer
taurant, located sumptuous club meal.
at 722 N.W. Loop The magic theme for the
410. The restau- evening was Carnival Magic,
rant is inside Loop which reflects Ray’s involve-
410 on the access ment in the carnival in the past
road between with his classic “Flim Flam
Blanco Rd. and Foolery” act. Up first, Lon
San Pedro. For Mandrake portrayed himself as
more informa- a fortune teller in his presenta-
tion, contact tion of Destiny Magic, in which
douggorman@att. Linda Henriksen happened to
net pick the only two red cards out

56
Jay Sankey with of an entire deck of blue cards.
From Left: Joe Libby-President, Geoffrey Sad- Busy Marvin Mathena (Treasurer) Rod Chow presented a midway
owski-Vice President, Don Moravits-Outgoing May game of chance with Linda
President, Doug Gorman-Secretary/Treasurer, Mandrake; although she had
George Castillo-Sergeant-At-Arms. Dayton, OH— the prediction was a “red card,” several opportunities to win
It was a very busy and then the chosen card ended the big bucks, each time Linda
May for Assembly up with the volunteer’s name ended up with only ten cents.
famous strawberry cheesecake 56. First, the assembly took written on it. For an example Jens Henriksen had a word
for dessert, and to Doug and a “road trip” up to Canton, of “bending,” Jay showed a selected from a number of
Fran Gorman for setting up the Ohio, for The International plastic spoon, turned it around torn out pages of a book,
stage, sound, and lights. Don Battle of Magicians! Twenty a couple of times, and showed and that word matched a
Moravits conducted the Instal- compeers and two guests made that the spoon had a twist in it. word chosen in a dictionary
lation of Officers Ceremony. the trip. What a great turnout Jay also had plenty of other by another volunteer. Neale
Congratulations to our new for the assembly. Plus, it was a examples of his creative magic Bacon confirmed that his
officers: Joe Libby – President, fantastic convention! It was my – a lot of it was his older stuff, favorite part of a carnival is
Geoffrey Sadowski – Vice first time at The Battle and I’m but updated, with a few things I the food, and showed various
President, Doug Gorman planning on going back. had never seen before. Overall, food items commonly found at
– Secretary/Treasurer, and Then, two weeks later, we it was a great lecture and a carnivals. After Neale had Jens
George Castillo – Sergeant-at- had our regularly scheduled great night for the AAMC! eliminate the items one by one,
Arms. Don then recognized meeting. The theme this —Randy A. Smith it turned out that Jens ended up
several members for their con- month was Card Magic Using Hank Moorehouse Assembly with the bill for all the food.
tribution to the assembly for this Apparatus. What a fun theme 88 meets the second Dennis Hewson took everyone
year with certificates of appre- by Oran Dent! All kinds of Wednesday 7pm Faith Lutheran to the carnival sideshow and
ciation: to David Hira, for en- great magic and history was Church, 1255 E Forest Ave, performed a Sword through
tertaining Assembly 52 at this presented by Oran, Thurman Ypsilanti, MI. Randy A. Smith, Neck routine. Dave Watters
banquet; to Dwayne Stanton Smith, Marvin Griswold, Fred Phone:313-562-3875 Email demonstrated the effectiveness
and Geoffrey Sadowski for Witwer, Barb Pfeifer, Paul randy.remarkable@gmail.com of a squeaker device, and then
rejuvenating and leading the Burnham, Stan Goode, Scott or visit www.aamagic.org for took an instant mini picture
S.Y.M.; to Doug Gorman and Miller, Matt Stanley, Dave more details. of Lon Mandrake’s thought-of

95
Michael Tallon for assisting Davis, and guest John Love. card.
Assembly 52 beyond the call of Stan also provided fantastic CARNIVAL Michael Glenister showed
duty; to Dahnene Moravits for refreshments. Fun was had by MAGIC BBQ some attractive and fun color
providing continuing support all! —Paul D. Burnham changing light-sabers. Henry
to her husband; and to Fran Dayton, Ohio, Assembly 56 Vancouver, Canada– Tom portrayed the carnival
Gorman for publishing the meets third Friday at 7:30 p.m. The June meeting was held conman with a Three Card
monthly newsletter. President Location varies, so call Barb at the home of Ray Roch in Monte routine. Rick Mearns
Joe Libby then presented Don Pfeifer for information: (937) Tsawwassen, who fired up his performed a lie detector test
Moravits with a plaque of ap- 433-8604. BBQ for a spouses welcome and ended up matching Linda

88
preciation for his “unselfish patio cookout. While Ray was Mandrake’s card to his predic-
service to Assembly 52.” Jay Sankey in charge of the BBQ, his wife tion. Lon closed the evening by
Our entertainer for the Lecture Pat was pretty well in charge of returning with a mini sideshow
evening was David Hira from everything else, and together illusion of the Finger Chopper,
Dallas. David is a world-class, Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti, with Trevor Watters risking his
full-time professional, having MI— Friendly, warm, and finger. —Rod Chow
performed in such prestigious down to earth, Jay Sankey The Carl Hemeon Assembly
locations as Caesar’s Palace, started by talking about the No. 95 meets the first
The White House, and on importance of interacting Tuesday of each month at
cruise ships on the Mediter- with people, to have fun with members’ homes.
ranean Sea. He has also made people. His lecture consisted of
thirty-six television appearanc-
es. David provided an awesome
show for our assembly, filled
three forms of close-up magic:
traditional magic, mentalism,
and “bending.”
112 Anything
Goes
with magic and comedy. He started with a very funny CONCORD CA— After
Thanks, David, for a wonderful card trick, in which three yours truly won the attendance
performance. selected cards were mysterious- award at our May meeting, we
Brother John Hamman ly “eaten” by the four Queens. immediately jumped into the
Assembly 52 meets at 7:30 Then came a mentalism trick Ray Roch hosts performance portion of the
p.m. on the first Thursday of in which a card was picked; pre-summer BBQ meeting with Doug Kovacich

16 M-U-M Magazine
 ASSEMBLY NEWS
starting us off with a spiral Following a brief pizza break, Paper Engine: Tension, Focus right between the eyes! (I’m
disk that seemed to make Rick Jerry Barrilleaux explained and Design in Card Magic. The guessing he doesn’t use this for
Allen’s get larger and then the Trick of the Month, during Gary Kurtz book Leading with his school shows.)
smaller for those who gazed which he provided us with Your Head was also discussed. James Alcon performed a
at the disk. Immediately after, an exceptionally well made Prof Higgins shared his penetration effect using a
Zappo (that’s me) performed a set of sticks, made from thought on the DVD Silverado: large Lucite plate and a silk.
cut-and-restored rope routine timbers from his grandfather’s Advanced Coin Magic. James then picked up a box of
that included a sweet method diamond mine. Although both The program for the evening Kleenex tissues and removed
of constructing a set of ropes sides of first one stick and later was flower magic. Prof Higgins four tissues. Commenting that
to perform The Professor’s another were shown blank, by opened by producing a large he had begun to try Origami,
Nightmare right in front of the saying the magic word Jerry wine glass, four bouquets, and he folded the tissues and
audience. Then Bob Holdridge was able to make diamonds a double color-changing silk. produced a live dove, while in
performed two prediction appear at will, jump back and Jeff Harpring did a nice short sleeves! The dove was
routines with, as usual, his forth between the sticks, and version of Name that Card then also pushed through the
well-crafted props disappear just as fast as he followed by Pedro Hernandez’s center of the Lucite plate. He
And Roy Porfido managed to had initially produced them. rendition of a card sandwiched ended his routine with a new
capture a wild white balloon And, as usual with this feature, between two Jokers. version of Out of This World.
behind bars in a shoebox-sized members present received Mark Clegg finished with a Afterwards, we all discussed
cage. With the help a five- these props for free. nice presentation of Sequential how the effects were ac-
year-old guest spectator, Roy During the mini-lecture that Travelers. complished. Several had to
burst the balloon and turned it ended the meeting, Zappo The next meeting will be know how James managed to
visibly into a cute little version (that’s still me) had a discussion Wednesday, June 15, and the produce the dove while not
of Pepé Le Pew. about several aspects of per- topic will be “Patriotic Magic wearing a jacket! Hope to see
At that point, Jerry Bar- forming the cut-and-restored or Outside Magic.” See ya at everyone at the next meeting!
rilleaux penetrated a pencil rope and a direct follow-up of the meeting, —Ken Barham —James Alcon
through both a dollar bill and The Professor’s Nightmare. Assembly 120, Champaign, Alcon’s Gate City Wizards,
a lottery selection ticket in an —Larry Wright IL – Andy Dallas Assembly, Assembly # 128 Greensboro,
effort to find the lucky winning Diablo Assembly No. 112 3rd Wed. 7pm, (except Nov. NC Meets the last Tuesday
numbers. It turned out the meets third Wednesdays at the and Dec.) For location call of the month. Location: 1207
dollar bill was completely Round Table Pizza in Concord. Chris at 217-431-4791 or Ken Westminster Drive Greens-

120
unharmed from the penetration Barham Sec, 2318 Winchester boro, NC 7:30 PM Phone
of the pencil. Flower Dr, Champaign, IL 61821 852-4596

129
Magic phone: 217-841-5616 email:
Kebram@aol.com Money Magic

128
Champaign, IL— The Contest
first item last month was The Meeting
the possibility of Skyping that Almost Pensacola, FL— The
a meeting together with the Wasn’t June meeting started off with
Kansas City, Missouri, group. Beau Broomall conducting a
It was decided that this could Greensboro, NC— The teach-in of what he calls The
be a lot of fun and we should April meeting almost wasn’t… Calendar Card Trick; it is quite
give it a go. only one person showed up on amazing what you can do with
Next up, we voted to keep the time, and, just as we were about a deck of cards and a calendar.
business meetings to twenty to give up and watch some President Nathan Nickerson
minutes with magic to follow. magic DVDS, a few trickled called the meeting to order
The twenty minutes will not in. Finally, we could see some and touched base on events
Roy Porfido has young helper include book/DVD reports magic! that included: the Pensacola
pop balloon
that are limited to two minutes. Eric Dobell led off with a Kids arthritis camp show,
Bruce Kalver has an iPad app thought-reading effect using a where Beau Broomall, Nathan
that includes contracts and copy of Alice in Wonderland. Nickerson, and Ronnan
The person from whom Jerry paper work for magicians to A page number was chosen Carrero performed and had
had obtained the miracle just use. It called Magic Gig Slips, and James Alcon turned to a great time; Al Grimm’s
performed was Mike Della it sells for $4.99 and can be that page. Upon reading one surgery, which went well; a
Penna, the President of the found at the iTunes app store. of the paragraphs, James was secret project that Nathan is
Oakland Magic Circle, who In Tales from the Trenches, to imagine the animal named working on; the upcoming
followed with a dazzling act Justin Dudely told us of having in that paragraph. Eric began Sanders Beach show for the
that included an Okito coin-box a multiplying wand hide from to read James’s thoughts and Pensacola Parks; and the club’s
routine, a four-Ace routine, a him; it was then later thrown proceeded to draw the animal. picnic. Info will be in the club’s
matrix routine, a giant-sized at him during a show. He also When finished, he had correctly newsletter.
coin production, and (with the told of having his table fall named and drawn a cat. Members Perry Vath, Jeremy,
help of his blindfolded card over with an egg inside it that Noah Gray followed with a Billy Countryman and Charles
duck) the finding of a selected later cracked prematurely. Paul card trick. The backs of his Moody played a round of the
card. Mercer described having the cards all had smiley faces on alphabet game – backwards. It
Following that performance, person who hired him walk them. Noah discussed several was hysterical.
Jerry Barrilleaux demon- up to him in the middle of his pictures that he had of different We held our raffle with over
strated the Trick of the Month show to pay him. Prof Higgins assassins from the past. A card thirty items; thanks to Andy
(which he explained later in the described a number of outdoor was chosen from the deck and Dallas and Dave Kloman
evening after the guests had mishaps, which prompted ideas shuffled back. Taking out a for their donations. Thanks
left). Chris Roe rounded out on dealing with adverse situa- gun (careful!), Noah shot at the to Betty Broomall and Joan
the performance portion of the tions from Andy Dallas. deck. When the chosen card Moody for setting up the re-
night with a bold mind-reading Chris Bontjes gave our book was found, the back of it had a freshment table and to all who
effect. report on Aaron Fisher’s The smiley face with a bullet hole brought the goodies. Thank

AUGUST 2011 17
ASSEMBLY NEWS
you Isaac Brady for handling & Yuki, and Nelly Monroe & treated us to a great balloon to we always encourage perfor-
the raffle ticket sales and for all John Coppin. Hiro & Yuki a real snake comedy routine. mances by our members. This
the work you do as the club’s were the first place winners Matt Martin gave a review of time, our teenage sensation,
librarian. for 2011. Everyone else came the new IMX convention and TJ Ketchmark, offered a
We also welcomed our two second. performed Random Choice, a brand new act. TJ continues to
guests, Julie and Jim, friends of Stars of Magic performers card routine by Hayashi. solidify his well deserved repu-
Charles Dunn, and our newest for 2011 are: Nelly Monroe, Program Chairman Ash tation for skill, style, and pro-
member, Jeffrey Sobel. Hiro & Yuki, George Franzen, Adams introduced the core fessionalism. Now let me turn
June’s themes were inspira- John & Mari Shryock, Chip activity of the evening with the rest of this column over to
tional magic and our annual Romero, Jayson Schultz, Rod a video showing Lew Zafran Fr. Kurt in his own inimitable
money magic contest. Nathan & Kim Housley, Bill Black, reading the charter of the Fort words.)
Nickerson started it off by Mike & Billie DeSchalit, and Worth Magicians Club and Our long awaited yearly
sharing one of his inspirations Norm Marini. sharing stories about each magician exchange program
on the way he sees magic in art National Magic Week is the of the founding members. with the New Mazda Mystic
work. last week in October. Mike Past president Rick Burcher Ring, Elgin, Illinois, had
The money magic contest DeSchalit will attempt to get a (‘84) shared some of his own finally arrived. After a short
started off with Jeremy per- proclamation from the mayor history with the club and with business meeting, it was on
forming Richard Sanders’s for Magic Week. the TAOM. Bruce Chadwick with the show.
Extreme Burn. Gene Burrell The Club will have an S.A.M. (‘86, ‘09) showed us his Homer “Big Bob” Coleman, who
did his take on Dan Sperry’s initiation ceremony at our Hudson table and performed has to be the universe’s best
lifesaver trick using a coin October 3 meeting at the “Z his very skillful bill switch. balloon man (over 250 figures
with a hole in it. Al Grimm Mansion”. If you are a new Bob Utter (‘91) shared a knot and still counting) got the ball
entertained us with a Coins member or have never been to on a rope trick with lots of rolling. After a sucker card
Across routine. Bill Metsch an initiation, let us know. It is jokes and gags. Van McGee prediction with the help of
tried Michael Ammar’s kind of like Harry Potter, but (‘92) shared a great Sidewalk Nicolette, using a smiley face
BeSwitched. Beau Broomall different. Shuffle-type routine with and flash paper, a card was
did a great version of Michael After many years of great large cards. Dan Scrivner (‘96) chosen by assistant Bob Syrup,
Ammar’s Coin through Silk. service from Tuller Trophy’s, performed a very original returned to the deck, and the
Perry Vath did a routine he we will continue to purchase pom-pom type trick made of deck returned to its box. The
called Count your Blessings; he our magic awards from them. PVC pipe with faucets on the whole shebang (pardon the
then produced a coin from his Elly Hundshamer (our newest end and plungers tied to string pun) somehow got into an
phone. While the votes were member) is in charge of selling running through the whole inflated balloon, which blew
counted we were entertained ad space on the Stars of Magic contraption. John Hatzen- up to reveal the chosen card,
by magic from Dave Kloman: program. Now we know what buhler (‘97, ‘09) had four vol- which somehow had managed
he produced a rose from a silk you mean, Nelly, when you say, unteers come up. They all tore to get out of the card box.
then made it grow; turned a “My mother.” Elly has pos- up tissue paper and everyone, Next up was the classic Gypsy
green silk into a frog; produced session of the Stars of Magic including himself, put the torn Thread, presented by “Doc”
a long streamer; hammered tickets. pieces in their mouths; at the Morrisy. Doc’s rhyming patter
a nail in his nose; and made A handful of magician went end he produced a mouth coil. is his own and has been pro-
some large money. Charles to visit Joe DuPerry in a local He also vanished a ring that fessionally published for our
Dunn ended the evening doing care facility. Randy Atha was ended up tied to his shoelace. fraternity – outstanding! He
his routine, This Little House the organizer. Last, David Thomason (‘98) proved to be a true “ham” and
of Mine. SAM Assembly 136 meetings did some crazy gags that left us scored with his own rendition
The winners of the contest are first Monday of each month all speechless. of Bank Night to finish his
were Gene Burrell, Beau at “The Z Mansion” 288 N. Ash Adams and others shared set. Some guy named Kevin
Broomall, and Jeremy; they Church Ave. www.zmansion. a brief history of founding Sarnwick (with the help of Mary
each received a cash prize, a com ALL lectures start at 7:00 member and first club president Ziemba and young magical
mis-made bill, complements of PM and are held at Craycroft Ren Clark (‘41). Last was prodigy TJ Ketchmark) dealt
Nathan Nickerson. Towers 1635 N. Craycroft Rd. our new monthly “works in fifteen cards and got involved
The meeting was adjourned (On Lee Street, West side of progress” session during which with cards across…oops! Well,
with only minutes to leave Craycroft Rd.). Richard Amon performed his there’s always next year.

138
the building before it closed. linking ring routine; everyone It was time for the master of
—Bill Metsch Past shared ideas on what they mental mayhem, Bob Coluzzi
The Gulf Coast Magicians Presidents thought was good and what to take the floor – cards on a
Guild Assembly 129 meets the Night could be enhanced. —Al Fox CD, laser card prediction on
3rd Thursday of the month at SAM Assembly 138 meets the ceiling, torn card restored
the Bay View Senior Center, Fort Worth, TX – The on the first Thursday of to pocket…cards, cards, cards!
Pensacola, Florida. At 6:45 June 2011 meeting of the Fort each month at 7:00 P.M. Bob used to do a fire act years
pm. Contact: Secretary Bill Worth Magicians Club featured at the Tarrant County ago. His mentalism proved to
Metsch- metsch@gulftel.com Past Presidents night. First were College River Campus. See be just as hot by completing the

136
our new member qualification www.fortworthmagiciansclub. evening with his own spin on
Stage acts, during which we had three org for more information. Al Koran’s Medallion.

148
Magician of new members perform. Steve Wait a minute! Hold the show!
the Year Contest Medellin performed a Coins A VISIT FROM I forgot Steve Mills. He passed
Across routine. Ron Wilson THE MYSTICS out clever illustrated instruc-
Tucson, AZ— Monday, did his best Blackstone impres- tions using mnemonics and
June 6, 2011, was the Assembly sion and then had six cards ELMHURST, IL — (Presi- taught us to memorize the
136 Stage Magician of the Year chosen from a mixed deck; he dent’s note: We are happy to alphabet backwards in a matter
contest at the Gaslight Theatre. revealed all six cards and who have our club secretary, Fr. Kurt of minutes. When I got home
Not quite a sellout crowd, but chose them in different unbe- Spengler back in our midst. I woke up my wife to show
pretty close. John Shryock was lievable ways. Daryl Sprout, But before giving the good off my new skill. Needless to
the emcee; contestants were: who performs profession- father the floor, let me mention say, she was not impressed.
Mike & Billie DeSchalit, Hiro ally all over the D/FW area, that here at Assembly 148, A fun time was had by all.

18 M-U-M Magazine
 ASSEMBLY NEWS
—Fr. Kurt Spengler us for dinner in our special his presentation of a pencil —Tim Fortune
Assembly 148 meets the third (but crowded) dining room. through a bill (Misled) and also Assembly 168 meets fouth
Monday of Every month at the President Doug Thornton commanded the bill to float. Wednesday 7:30 PM at
Epiphany Lutheran Church, started our May meeting with A special mention must be Methodist Church in Parsip-
on the corner of Spring and some short club announce- made about our long-time pany, NJ. www.sam168.org/

181
Vallette, Elmhurst, IL ments and the introduction of member Norm Rosen. Besides

157
our guest lecturer, Jim Sisti. being a fine magician and End of the
Plan Learn Jim has written for a number of genial guy, Norm organizes Magic Year
Perform magic publications, including visits to various children’s and Meeting
his own Magic Menu, and has veteran’s hospitals in the area.
Beaver, PA— The Mystic worked on numerous videos for He recruits club members and Hightstown, NH— Our
Magicians of Beaver Valley L & L Publishing. Jim showed they meet to bring some joy end of the magic year meeting
(Assembly 157) announced us some of his favorite routines and wonder to the numerous was a pizza party held once
plans for the annual picnic and stressed the magic of pre- patients. Thank you, Norm, for again at Brother’s Pizzeria
on June 12 and a fall picnic sentation. He talked about his your endless volunteer work! in Hightstown. Everyone got
in late September. The club’s childhood growing up in his When we come back on their fill of pizza and soda and
participation in the S.A.M. parent’s business and doing September 12 we will have a we all had a lot of fun doing
convention in July is running magic tricks for people passing lecture by Chris Capehart. Our magic for the workers, the
smoothly, including local through the restaurant. Jim’s October 10 lecturer will be the customers, and for our fellow
member buttons, a list of areas lecture was very interesting magical pitchman Al Callus. magicians. Matt Schick was
of interest, transportation from and we learned how to be more —Christopher J. Smith home from college in Boston
airport. creative with our presentations. If you are in the area please join and treated us to some of his
Performers were introduced I especially liked Jim’s four us, 6pm dinner, 8pm meeting. new card work. Matt is making
by Tom Chidester. David Copperfield Assembly quite a name for himself. He’s
Don Moody #161 meets the second scheduled to appear at a local
presented his Fifth Monday; Stage House Restau- Rock Festival, be the emcee at
Dimension, in rant 366 Park Avenue Scotch Bob Little’s Super Sunday, and
which a wand goes Plains, NJ 07076 Assembly will emcee the Magic Alliance
through interest- Web Site: www.sam161.org. of the Eastern States Conven-
ing gyrations as it tion in September. Some of the

168
passes through a guys got into a lively discus-
box. Rich Howard Levitation sion about apps for the iPad.
performed a predic- Another discussion concerned
tion effect with a favorite card forces.
wand made of six Parsippany NJ— The Our new officers for the
colored beads and June meeting was to be an upcoming magic season are:
a can of beads. Eric From left: Christopher J. Smith, Gene uplifting one, as our theme Steven Sloan, President;
Davis entertained Soucek, Guru Subramanian, Bob Simek, was Levitation. Past President Dave Dzbory, Vice President;
with some comedy and Doug Thornton. Assembly 161
Dave Scribner opened up our Dennsis Govine, Treasurer;
one-liners and meeting and younger guest and ERYX, Dean and Acting
Chad Long’s Now Riley Fortune became the Secretary (until I can get
Look Here. Jim willing audience. It’s always someone else to take over the
Weyand performed Flight of phase presentation of the ring nice to see friends return. The darn paperwork, because the
the Phoenix, a presentation for on string. evening began with Earl Hicks Dean ain’t supposed to do
Bizarre Twist. Ray Lucas did Our June meeting, which is opening with a coin vanish and nuttin’).
a surprising prediction effect. our last meeting of the season, then doing a silk routine with a The Hightstown United
Frank Kietzke presented the is when we have our Jim Hart Blendo, fountain, and streamer Methodist Church where
Twentieth Century Silks. Excellence in Magic contest. effect all intertwined. Next up, we hold our meetings had a
Doug Ries performed Michael This year we had eleven of our again completely ignoring the luncheon in June. Four of our
Close’s Pothole Trick. Trent member magicians join the theme, S. Patrick did an Aldo members performed walk-
Rapp performed a prediction fun: Terry Landsman, Norman Colombini card effect and around magic at the luncheon.
trick that ended up being a Rosen, Joel Landsman, Bob then did a variation of Harry We had a lot of fun and the
surprise birthday card (signed Simek, Doug Thornton, Greg Lorayne’s Lazy Magician Card attendees were well enter-
by all the club members) for Ferdinand, Jim Flood, K. Trick. Pitchman extraordinaire tained. It’s our way to pay back
one of the members. Ed Bran- Bruce Harpster, Gene Soucek, Al Callus did a very strong the church for letting us use a
denstein brought a rabbit Christopher J. Smith, and Guru routine using John Kennedy’s meeting room for our monthly
standing next to a top hat prop. Subramanian. The judging Flight Deck. He later followed meetings. Performers were:
He had two cards chosen from for the contest consisted of it up with an impromptu Dazzling Dave Dzbory, Magic
his deck, which he placed in all attending members in the Miser’s Dream type effect. The Mike, ERYX, and Professor
the hat. The bunny pulled out Magic Candle Room at the only performer of the evening REM.
the chosen cards. —Judy Steed Stage House Restaurant. This to keep with the theme was I know that December is a
The Mystic Magicians of year the competition was very Chris Smith, who performed long way off, but we are ten-
Beaver Valley (Assembly 157) close. In fourth place we had a floating bill routine and then tatively planning a planning
meet the second Thursday a tie between Doug Thornton gave a brief demonstration on meeting in August. (Somehow,
of every month at the Towne and Bob Simek; third place tying invisible elastic thread that sounds funny?) Other than
Square Restaurant in Beaver, was captured by Gene Soucek; in “oval shapes, not loops.” that, as Brian Hyland sang:
PA. second place went to Christo- Finally, President Tim Fortune “See you, in September.” And,

161
pher J. Smith; and first place performed a monte-cap routine if you can remember that,
Jim Sisti was earned by Guru Subrama- from Dan Haus’s Rattled. you’re likely as old as I am!
Lecture nian. Guru is a past Assembly The attendees then voted on —ERYX
161 champion and returned the best performance of the Assembly 181, the Richard
SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ— Jim this year to regain his much evening and Earl took home Gustafson Assembly, meets the
Sisti and his wife Sandy joined deserved crown. Guru gave the awards and accolades of all. first Thursday of the month,

AUGUST 2011 19
ASSEMBLY NEWS
September thru June at the Curtis Hickman’s hand. Their lecture was not only SEATTLE, WA— June was
United Methodist Church, 187 The ever clever Steve Dawson very well programmed, each rubber band magic, however
Stockton Street, Hightstown, also figured out a way to get of them taking turns in pre- there were quite a few great
NJ. However, for September Curtis’ $50 and ran it through senting and explaining the tricks performed as well that
2011, our meeting will be on some kind of gimmick. many effects they offered, but, didn’t involve rubber bands.
8 September 2011 to avoid Steve also showed us his from time to time, they also J.R. Russell started out the
conflict with the M.A.E.S. wonderful collapsing table. inserted commentaries on their evening performing a recently
Convention. Please see our web Dave “Magical” Johnson used own lives and on their special published trick (in Steve Mar-
site at: magicsam181.com for a a Stress-O-Meter Doll to help approach to creating and per- shall’s I Left My Cards at Home
possible start time adjustment him discern the identity of a forming magic. Their personal column) in which you use tin
and other more timely infor- chosen card. remarks lifted the whole foil to create an impression of
mation re: S.A.M. 181. Kerry Summers showed us evening to a rarely achieved a coin and then after removing

188
all the stuff he bought from level at which the tricks were the coin, another coin appears
Give-away Abbott’s when he was a kid. only a part of the evening. This inside. J.R. used gold foil of
Magic He used a Card Box, a Card was no mere “dealer demo,” gum and presented it as a nice
Frame, miniature slates, Out but a sharing of some deep and impromptu piece.
OREM, UT— The June to Lunch, Glorpy, and a pack personal and funny observa- Jim Earnshaw performed a
meeting started a week late and of cards. Ben Jones made the tions on magic and on life. three coin production/vanish/
was conducted by President corner of a playing card vanish Throughout the evening, production by Eric Mead.
Kerry Summers. The theme for only to appear inside the rest of Aldo punctuated his presen- Roger Sylwester performed
the evening was magic accom- the card. We had to split open tations – all expertly done a great vanishing bird cage
panied by a give-away item. the card to find the corner. – with his special brand of bit that was very smooth.
Brian South donated an Candy Brandon made her humor, often illustrated with Roger also showed the group
Anything is Possible bottle, magical debut with a Stuart quick sight gags. Space does a beautiful Troublewit he had
containing a sealed pack of Little book and a paddle. Bob not allow the listing of every made and a very funny routine
cards, as a prize for the best Christensen did a combination effect, but of particular interest using it.
magic effect of the evening. Out to Lunch and poker chip (at least to me) were An Empty Bill Murray preformed a nice
Brian also switched Curtis routine and then proceeded to Envelope, The Houdini Card, cut to aces routine that got the
Hickman’s $50 bill for a $1 do an Ambitious Card routine Cutting The Rope In Three, group discussing various ace
bill and tried unsuccessfully to with a color change. Barrett Cidentaquin (with ESP cards), productions and false shuffles.
give away the $1 in exchange Haughton did a card reveal. and Ring On Rope, all done Hugh Castell performed a very
for the $50. Eventually Brian Curtis Hickman did a fun by Aldo. For her part, Rachel funny set of rubber band magic
gave new member Barrett routine pulling previously presented Jumbo Prediction, that included a signed sticker
Haughton the Change Cap chosen cards from an “empty” Baffling Book (a book test with stuck to the band that jumps
Brian used in the trick. coat pocket. a non-gimmicked book), A from band to band.
Al Lampkin showed everyone Winners of the contest were: Mental Trick (based on a Larry Dimmitt continued his
his new routine for libraries 1st place: Curtis Hickman; 2nd Marconick idea), and an ab- great mentalism and borrowed
using Al’s new Axtell puppet. place: Ben Jones; and tied for solutely stunning presentation a dollar from an audience
Both vent and library shows 3rd place: Candy Brandon and of her unique Cups and Balls member and had him fold it
are new for Al, but some think Al Lampkin. routine. and place it into an envelope.
he may make it in this business The Assembly usually meets Two final observations: 1) As Larry was able to divine the
yet. Walter Webb somehow every second Thursday at far as I could tell, though the serial number of the dollar.
got Candy Brandon to sing to 7:00pm at The Courtyard lecture ran quite long, just Mark Paulson preformed a
us and then revealed he knew at Jamestown, 3352 North about everyone stayed to the nice card revelation in which
all along what song she would 100 East, Provo, Utah. very end, and 2) not only two rubber bands knew the
choose. Guests welcome. For addi- are Aldo and Rachel two very card chosen was going to be the
tional information contact polished performers of enter- Two of Hearts and the bands
Kerry Summers at 801/372- taining magic, but there is a ended up linking as hearts at
7776 or go to our website at very visible and real “magic” the end of the routine. Mark
www.utahmagicclub.org (often referred to as love) also performed a nice silent/

194
between the two of them that music routine in which cards
The Aldo greatly enhanced their pre- were eliminated by spectators
& Rachel sentations and their ability to only to have the last card left
Colombini connect with their audience. match the predicted card.
Lecture Those who were present left Ralph Huntzinger performed
saying, “What a wonderful a nice four silver dollars
Yonkers, NY— Your couple they are,” and “What through the hand routine
reporter has been to dozens of a most memorable night this framed around a teaching
lectures in his sixty-plus years was!” lecture on how to routine
of performing magic and I can’t Assembly 194 meets every tricks. Ralph presented some
recall when I enjoyed a lecture third Wednesday (except July good information for everyone.
as much as the one we were & August) at 7:30 PM at the —Jim Earnshaw
treated to on June 15. Aldo and Catholic Slovak Club at 49 The Emerald City Wizards
Al and Nigel Rachel Colombini arrived right Lockwood Ave., Yonkers, Assembly 200 meets at 7
on time with lots of “goodies” NY. For further informa- p.m. on the first Thursday
Ricky Brandon grossed us and began their very well tion contact Pres. Stranges of each month at a King
out by hammering a nail up his planned lecture by providing (magicjim1@optonli ne.net County Library branch. Check
nose; he then asked Catherine each one present with a cup or Secty, Fr. Dermot Brennan website for meeting locations:
Johnson to pull it out. Yuck. of champagne to toast us and mbrdermot@aol.com) www.emeraldcitywizards.org

200 205
Mont Duston told us a camping them as they drew near to the
story and then somehow caused end of their fifty-stop Farewell Rubber Bands Summertime
a penny to go right through Lecture Tour. and More! is Show Time!

20 M-U-M Magazine
 ASSEMBLY NEWS
Rochester, MN— During flight time for their favorite ginnings and how-to for our details included: Kimball
the summer months of June effects; the club earned sub- members. Theater as the location; other
through August, many as- stantial income from product Louisville magic club assembly members perform-
semblies suspend their regular sales; business contacts were President David Garrard took ing close-up magic in lobby
meeting schedules as vacations made; S.A.M. literature was the stage with Mac and Lance prior to the show; and selling
and other activities take their distributed – and at least one to introduce them and help field magic tricks in the lobby. In
toll on attendance. To sustain prospective member was questions. These two, world-re- other business Harold Wood
enthusiasm over this busy solicited. spected magicians talked about moved, with Tom Armentrout
time, Assembly 205 uses sum- Our thanks to National Ad- their beginnings in our club, seconding, that Watt Hyer
mertime as the prime oppor- ministrator Manon Rodriguez, about Tombstone junction, Las assume the vacant position of
tunity to recruit new members Midwest Regional VP Jeff Vegas, their most embarrass- Sergeant-at-Arms. Addition-
and replenish the treasury by Sikora, and Most Illustri- ing moments, their favorite ally, monthly programs for the
participating in community ous National President Mark routines, and gave much advice remainder of 2011 were fleshed
events. Weidhaas for providing the to all in attendance. To para- out.
On June 11, the Rochester beautiful trial membership phrase Uncle Tom’s Cabin, “…I
Mystic 13 assembled in Pine postcards that are the focus of reckon’ these two are ‘bout
Island, Minnesota, for a nine- our recruiting campaign. the most respected men from
ty-minute show during Pine In all – a very success- Kaintuck since Davey Crockett
Island’s annual CheeseFest ful start to Summer 2011. and Daniel Boone…” It was so
celebration. The 200-seat —David J. Moitzheim much fun; thank you to all who
Olde Pine Theatre provided an Assembly 205, The Rochester attended.
intimate venue for performers Mystic 13 meets the last The question for us is, how
Cody Story, David Danzig, and Thursday of each month does our president, David
Joe Swicklik. New member (barring holidays). Meetings Garrard, top this meeting?
Tommy (Twister) Bradley are held at Comfort Inn, 5708 I do not know, but I do know
and veteran Brent (Sin’Gee’) Bandel Rd, Rochester, MN. one thing: surrounded by
Coggins provided technical These meetings occur on the some of the most dedicated
support on lights and sound. forth Thursday of each month and honorable members
Thursday, June 23, marked the 5:30PM-8:30PM. More in- who continue to support this
second event on our summer formation can be found at club, we will try! Visitors are
calendar as the Rochester our website: www.mystic13. always welcome; you never Watt Hyer performs with rings
Mystic 13 made an appear- com. Direct inquires to: know what you will find here!
ance at the City of Roches- david@danzigthehypnotist. —Tom Crecelius For the entertainment portion
ter’s “Thursday’s on First and com Any person traveling through of the meeting Watt Hyer,

215
Third” street fair. “Thursday’s Louisville, Kentucky and brought his DVD of Don Alan’s
on First and Third” is a regular Mac and wishing to attend a meeting Magic Ranch. There was an in-
event in Rochester that occurs Lance visit may contact us for more infor- troduction by Eugene Burger to
every Thursday between June Louisville mation. We are meeting at 7PM the videos, which was very in-
and September. For the Mystic various days of the month, but teresting. The videos were very
13, it means an opportunity to Louisville, KY—Mac usually on the second Tuesday, entertaining and well worth
perform street magic and run King Assembly 215 in Louis- location for our meetings watching. On Sunday, May 22,
our pitch booth for up to 20,000 ville, Kentucky, was honored is the St. Matthews Baptist several members attended Watt
fair-goers. to welcome home two of their Church. You can e-mail for Hyer’s Open House in Hanover,
On this Thursday night, members for our month of May more information. contact: VA. Watt has quite a place, not
overcast skies took a toll on meeting. Actually both Mac medimagic@cs.com least of which is a magic room

226
attendance – but those who King and Lance Burton came that will be the envy of every
did stop by enjoyed street to Louisville to help Patrick Plans and magician in the area. Many of
magic by Isaiah Foster and Miller with a show held each Performing the guests were his neighbors,
Joe Swicklik; juggling by year to benefit Kosair Children. but there were also a number
Ben Domask; balloon animals That, in itself, says a lot about WILLIAMSBURG, VA— of magicians in attendance
by Greg Chalmers and Joe their dedication and commit- The May 18 meeting began who took the opportunity to
Swicklik; and Svengali pitch ment to helping others. These with a Broken Wand Ceremony perform for the guests. Watt
work by David Danzig and Joe two Kentucky men agreed to for our dear friend and magic did a Ninja Ring routine, Pro-
Swicklik. Joining us, and dis- stay over for a meeting of our enthusiast Jim McGovern. fessor’s Nightmare, and ring on
playing some amazing close-up magic club to be put to the test. Jim’s love of magic was incred- wand. All three were done very
chops, was Joe Viner, a Mystic That “test” was a question and ible. He truly loved to watch, well. In June, Michael Hecken-
13 prospect from LaCrosse, answer and discussion of be- learn and perform magic and, berger will do a Linking Ring
Wisconsin. unlike many of us, Jim was not workshop, and hopes that Watt
In all, the Mystic shy when it came to performing will take the opportunity to
13 worked the for strangers. Whether it was a perform his Ninja Ring routine.
crowd non-stop hospital or some other location —Michael Heckenberger
for nearly three with lots of children, you could Baker-Temple Assembly 226
hours; afterward, count on Jim performing for meets at 7:00 p.m. on the 4th
we unanimously them and entertaining them. Wednesday (except December
agreed that a During the business portion and January) room 009, in the
night of perform- of the meeting, Michael Heck- Williamsburg Presbyterian
ing and pitching enberger discussed planning Church, 215 Richmond Road,
can’t be topped a professional magic show Williamsburg, VA 23185.
by the best-run in March/April 2012 to h t t p //s i t e s .g o o g l e .c o m /
club meeting. be performed by the three site/samassembly226.
Members got working professionals of the Email:assembly226@gmail.
crowd-proven Mac and Lance in Louisville assembly. Other possible com

AUGUST 2011 21
ASSEMBLY NEWS
266 SUMMER
FUN
appeared and ended up in an
IHOP menu that was visible all
night long.
several effects. Herb, master
of sleights, astounded us with
a coin stuck in his forehead.
routines and set him loose on
the world...and a magician is
born.
Lakeland, FL— Our first Another full night of magic to When he removed the coin Todd started off the evening
meeting of the summer started kick off a magical summer. If it had a pin permanently with his lotto decks. Five
off with a quick business your vacation plans bring you attached to the other side! numbered cards are randomly
meeting chaired by our Prez- to Central Florida be sure to Vinnie Rosenbluth performed selected from a blue-backed
extraordinary Ed McGowan. save the second Monday of the a coin transposition – a thing deck and placed face down
We filled out our assem- month for us. —Al D’Alfonso of beauty. Next was Gene Fein on a table. Then the process
bly’s ballet for the upcoming Jim Zachary Assembly 266 with his wry sense of humor. is repeated with a red-backed
national election and reviewed meets the second Monday of the He demonstrated how to count deck and placed on top of the
some lecture offers before month at 7PM at the Lakeland a stack of bills with a different blue cards, resulting in five
wrapping up the business I-HOP, I-4 & US 98. For more total each time he counted pairs of cards. When the pairs
portion of things. info contact Al D’Alfonso at them. Regular Manny Riskin are turned face up, the numbers
Ed introduced our visitors keeper0499@embarqmail.com showed us how to take a bite match. He was followed by Jay,
from Tampa, Frank Velasco, out of a bill and then restore it. who demonstrated The Smiling
John Aime, and Frank’s
daughter Rachel, who had
popped in to remind us of their
274 MONEY
MAGIC
Billy Byron usually closes our
show with his highly original
magic spiced with his unique
Assassin. A card is randomly
selected by an audience
member from a smiley-face-
one day convention coming BOCA RATON, FL — On sense of humor. He performed backed deck. Jay broke out his
up. Our sister I.B.M. group June 6, 2011, the Sam Schwartz Throw-away Glasses, a puzzle, gun app and “shots” the deck
supports our events, so we like Assembly featured “Money the $49 dollar trick, and used with his phone. When the deck
to do the same. We also had Magic” night. Appropriately, an alligator wallet to produce is fanned face down, one card
another guest and potential our emcee was “Mr. Money,” money and then a check. reveals a “dead” smiley with
new member, Jerry Kardos, Phil Labush. Phil entertained There was an encore effect a bullet hole between its eyes.
who joined us for the festivi- us with many of his numerous by Herb Arno, who showed The card is turned over and
ties. effects that gained him the rep- us how to link lifesavers. revealed as the chosen card.
The magic portion of the utation as Mr. Money. —Marshall Johnson Jay continued by demonstrat-
night was preceded by our The show opened with Henry Assembly 274 meets at the ing false shuffles and forcing.
card workshop, which had Epstein, who performed the JCC in Boca Raton, FL the Janine dazzled us with her
Elmo Bennett and Ed working effect 4 Quarters, a clever first Monday of each month. unique stripper deck routine.
together on a King and Queen version of the Mis-made Bill. President, Mel Panzer (561) The deck is dramatically
transposition effect. Some Next was Simon Carmel, fresh 304-7091 dropped, leaving the selected

295
good ideas came from the from a convention in Helsinki, card in the performer’s hand,
process. Finland. Simon performed June thus giving the routine a nice
For the performance portion several beautiful effects, Meeting dramatic flair. Excellent show-
of the night, Dean Bob Macey including a non-gimmicked manship, Janine! She also
did a double feature of Nick pen through bill and paper – a ATHENS, GA— Our June performed a nicely handled
Trost effects in which he con- nice effect that he explained meeting was hosted by El card prediction. Then, Alan
trolled the cards and Elmo to us. Bernie Kraus followed Drusso’s Magic House at the Wheeler performed Devas-
but using mathematical algo- showing how to change $5 bill Discover Mills Mall in Law- tation and a card mentalism
rithms. into $100. Marshall Johnson renceville, GA. In attendance effect. Please join me in
Following Bob, scribe Al used a wallet to create money. were Jay Schanerman (Vice welcoming Alan to the club.
D’Alfonso demonstrated Mel Panzer demonstrated President), Todd Herron (Past Todd took the stage again. He
another Max Maven gem from several outstanding effects. President), Janine Aronson, stunned us with his lightning
Multiplicity. Al gave Elmo the They included a Matrix, Alan Wheeler, Dru Lozano, fast appearing flower from a lit
gift of Luck, which allowed Extreme Burn, changing Giovanni, and Mark Hall candle routine. He continued
Elmo to control a slot machine $5 bills into $20 bills, and a (President). with his very own Three Little
into a winning pull. very nice routine using three While we were in the store, Pigs cup and ball routine. Then
Ed was back with a drinking different coins. Arnie Rosen before the meeting, a ten-year- Dru and Giovanni closed the
straw routine demonstrated to had a most unusual effect old boy named Joseph was evening with an impromptu
Jerry before moving back to involving a stack of coins. struggling over whether or not vanishing and reappearing
cards with an encore presen- Jerry Somerdin, creator of to buy a Svengali deck. This wand routine using my wand!
tation of a card transposition many fine tricks, presented a would be his first magic effect Contact club President,
from one deck to another that puzzle involving two different and Dru, being the awesome Mark E. Hall, at
wowed us just as badly as he solutions using pieces of fellow he is, was offering it at a Assembly295@yahoo.com for
did last month. a dollar bill. Herb Cohen considerable discount. I helped meeting information.
Our cleanup batter this month vanished a coin and then Joseph with his decision by
was Elmo, who had three cards produced two coins. buying the deck for him. Dru,
selected and then they all dis- Herb Arno performed Janine, and I taught him our

Send your reportS to:

assemblyreports@googlemail.com

22 M-U-M Magazine
 NEW APPLICATIONS AND REINSTATEMENTS
The following applications and reinstatements for Associate Memberships and Assembly Memberships have been received. For good cause shown, in
accordance with Article II, Section 3 of the Constitution of the Society of American Magicians, any member in good standing may object to the
acceptance of any new Associate Member (Assembly Memberships have already been approved by the Assembly to which they will be affiliated).
Any objection should be directed to the National Administrator.

NEW AFRICA Toledo, SPAIN Christenberry Jr, Earle J Mullins, Jeff

APPLICATIONS Guthrie, Diane Ren Jenkins, David River Ridge, LA Aliquippa, PA
Jefferson, GA Las Vegas, NV Clarke, Andrew E Mullins, Robert C
Aldrich, Steve Hefter, Mathew Reyes, Hector Angel Mesa Beaver Falls, PA Aliquippa, PA
Aurora, CO Glendale, AZ Madrid, SPAIN Crosson, Phillip Peace, Jennie Rae
Allen, Tiffany Heinzl, Josh Salinas, Alfredo Olyphant, PA Evans, GA
Forest, VA Windham, NH Tucson, AZ Davis, Jonathan R Peace, Ledan E
Alvarez, Jesse Hoelzel, Joseph Lyon Saul, Howard Colorado Springs, CO Evans, GA
Dallas, TX Minneapolis, MN Cherry Hill, NJ Fajuri, Gabe Pitts, Ruth
Andreoli, Thomas Joseph Inglis, Andrew Saul, Michael Chicago, IL Fort Smith, AR
Hudson, NH Concord, MA Cherry Hill, NJ Fernandez, Raul Antonio Reinbold, Damon
Aragon, Woody Irwin, Bill Segel, Joseph Burbank, CA Santa Fe, NM
Toledo, SPAIN Arlington, TX Bryn Mawr, PA Haney, Dennis John Sagotsky, Barry
Birkan, Shlomo Kalinowski, Aaron Sergent, Craig Rosedale, MD Princeton, N J
Buffalo, NY Indianapolis, IN Jeffersonville, IN Hayes Jr, Charles Sanders, Cherie K
Blanco, Michael Lan, Hui Hsin Sloan, Stephan Port Jefferson Station, NY Houston, TX
Houston, TX Taipei City, TAIWAN Freehold, NJ Hipschman, Irving B Schrier, John
Brantner, Robert Lessard, Yves Terral, Elliott Palo Alto, CA Scarsdale, NY
West River, MD St-Joseph De Sorel, QC West Monroe, LA Ishikawa, Shinjiro Snyder, Michael A
Brumbalow, Jason CANADA Thompson, Blaine Kanagawa, JAPAN Lancaster, PA
Belton, TX Liston, Michael Memphis, TN Kaiser, Phillip Srinivasan, Vasisht
Carver, Shawn Billings, MT Trent, Andrew Saint Cloud, FL Rochester, NY
Mars Hill, NC Maturen, Mike Odenton, MD Kim, Jae-Hee Stanton, Dwayne
Colburn, Scott Harrisville, MI Weiser, Daniel Wabu-Eup, Deoksso-Ri, San Antonio, TX
Frisco, TX Mckenzie, Norman Baltimore, MD Namyangju-Si, S. KOREA Stone, Jack
Corcoran, Paul Billings, MT Yamamoto, Hlroshi Kothare, Shank Philadelphia, PA
South Dennis, MA Mckinnon, Peter Toyonaka City, JAPAN Franklin, TN Taylor, Jason W
Cubelli, Jessica Belton, TX Zboray, David Kriss, Gary Havertown, PA
Houston, TX Mcniff, James Mercerville, NJ Williamstown, MA Tomaszewski, Gary L
Da Silva, Frederic Clermont, FL Kurzweil, Arthur Tallahassee, FL
Mably, FRANCE Mcnulty, Stephen J REINSTATEMENTS Great Neck, NY Tougas, Frank S
Darwin, Max Staten Island, NY Long, Tat-Chi Brooklyn Center, MN
New York, NY Mitchell, Craig Abbatiello, Lou Macau, CHINA Trillo, Arthur
Denham, James Cape Town, S. AFRICA Lancaster, PA Lopez, Christopher Tucson, AZ
Houston, TX Moise, Rodiny Alday, Geoff Bakersfield, CA Tyo, John A
Duffy, Tom Malden, MA Spring Hill, TN Macione, Ryan Massena, NY
New York, NY Montalvo, Moises Alexander, Gale M Salem, MA Unbehauen, George L
Elliott, Devon Ogallala, NE New Milford, CT Mahlburg, Steven South River, NJ
London, ON CANADA Murray, Sean Alswager, Richard O Tawas City, MI Walden, Christopher M
Fancher, John Chicago, IL Milwaukee, WI Marchman, Laurie Cedar Park, TX
Riverside, CA Newton, Lew Baird, Joan L Winder, GA Watkins, Glen
Ferrante, Tony Louisville, KY Lancaster, MA Martinez-Conde, S na Austin, TX
Winder, GA Norstrum, Andrew Bourgoin, Staphane Phoenix, AZ Weisgal, Leo L
Fetzer, Benjamin Shepherd, MT Saint-Hyacinthe, QC Meyer, Gordon San Antonio, FL
Covelo, CA Olson, David CANADA Chicago, IL Wenker, Kevin
Ford, Charles Tucson, AZ Brandenstein, Edward J Miller, Donald E Peoria, AZ
Washington, DC Peckham, Michael Pgh, PA Indianapolis, IN Yakubek, Michael
Glaze, John Watchung, NJ Brooks, Brian Mogar Jr, Joseph Kennesaw, GA
Sycamore, GA Peekel, Art Tualatin, OR Deerfield, NJ Zawada, Mark
Gobeo, Mark Palatine, IL Brown Jr, Larry J Molten, Jared Staten Island, NY
Boca Raton, FL Penstein, Richard Weatherford, TX Astoria, NY
Gore, David El Dorado Hills, CA Buxton, Marc Mousch, David J
Cape Town, SOUTH Perea, Maricarmen Florence, SC Shelton, CT

AUGUST 2011 23
BROKEN WANDS
William E. (Bill) King
The magic world lost one of its premier collectors on May 12, 2011, when William
E. (Bill) King Jr., eighty-five, of Hagerstown, Maryland, passed on. Bill held membership
#4145 and had been a continuous member of The Society of American Magicians for
sixty-four years. He was also a member of the I.B.M. and the Magic Circle. He was a
co-founder of Ring #94, Hagerstown, a Ring that bears his name, “King Magic Ring.”
Bill led a long and productive life. He served his country during WWII in the
European Theater and was awarded the Bronze Star. He was a 1943 graduate of
Hagerstown High School, and was a graduate of the University of Maryland and the
Stonier Graduate School of Banking at Rutgers University. He retired from Hager-
stown Trust and Mid Atlantic Bancorp as President and CEO.
Bill King was not only a great contributor to the magic world, having written several
books on magic history, but his generosity was surpassed by no one. At least four times over the past five or six
years Bill prepared a grocery bag of magic from his collection for every member of Ring 94, making sure each
bag was filled with the particular type of magic each member was interested in.
Bill King will be missed by all who knew him, and especially by his family and members of the Hagerstown
Magic community. —David W. Bowers

Leonard J. Elmer
Dr. Leonard J. Elmer Sr., retired dentist, born in Hammond, Louisiana, on May 8,
1917, and a native of New Orleans, died on June 6, 2011, after complications following
open heart surgery. His death was unexpected; he had anticipated taking trips to
Russia, Dallas, Orlando, and Las Vegas with his family this summer. His will to live life
to the fullest was exemplified in his daily activities and involvement in the community.
He was a graduate of Jesuit High School (1933) and Loyola University (1938). He
was a full-time instructor at the Loyola University Dental School from 1938-1942. He
was attending medical school prior to being pulled to teach dentistry full-time during
WW II.
He devoted himself to his two children and his wife, Beverly (also a USAF officer)
and was the epitome of what a father should be. He was a life member of the New
Orleans, Louisiana, and American Dental Associations.
His life-long interest in conjuring kept him very active and engaged in magic. He was a member of The Society
of American Magicians and the International Brotherhood of Magicians. He has been awarded the Order of
Merlin Excelsior by the I.B.M. He also recently reunited with Ring 27 of New Orleans. He was known as an avid
photographer and has gone to great lengths to get the “perfect shot.”
He loved his wife dearly and her loss in 2007 affected him profoundly. Despite his loss, he continued to care
for his granddaughter, Sarah, with whom he lived and shared his wisdom and love for life and magic with her.
His loss cannot be measured and his contribution to his family is profound. His legacy of love, life, and gusto for
making every day count are remembered by his actions.

Kim M. Zimmerman
Kim M. Zimmerman, 56, of Orangeville, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, June 21, 2011,
at St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, Illinois. Kim was born February 10, 1955,
in Freeport, Illinois, to Raymond and Cheryl Zimmerman.
Kim attended National Technical Institute for the Deaf in Rochester, New York
from 1975 to 1978, studying architecture. He worked for a small architectural business
for five years. Kim then worked at O’Hare International Airport as a mailer handler
from 1984 until retiring in 2010. He loved his Dalmatians: Donnie, Max, and Angel,
who was deaf. Kim was interested in many things including reading, history, and travel.
Kim had been a member of the S.A.M. and the I.B.M. since 1976. He was a Life
Member of both organizations. He was member of the World Deaf Magicians had
participated in WDM Festivals in different countries since 1992. He founded the first
U.S. – Canada Deaf Magicians Festival in Chicago in 1993. He loved to do his magic in
schools, churches, nursing homes, clubs, other festivals.

24 M-U-M Magazine
 BROKEN WANDS
Henry L. (Hank) Moorehouse 1934 – 2011
Hank Moorehouse passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Saturday, July 2, in
Beijing, China, while in the middle of a sixteen-city, twenty-five show tour of close-up
magic he was producing for the Chinese government.
Hank touched so many lives – for so many years. And he did it selflessly. He never
asked for anything in return – only that you do your best and become a credit to the
magic community.
As a magic dealer, he was impeccably ethical. As S.A.M. National President, he
initiated many steps that ultimately brought the organization onto the world stage.
And it was through his bonds of friendship within FISM, The Magic Circle, and magic
organizations around the world that the door opened for magicians in this country to
be recognized and perform abroad.
Hank may best be remembered as a master of his craft and a highly respected
magic show producer. Following sixteen years as S.A.M. show producer and an ad-
ditional thirteen years as Abbott’s show producer, he was named Artistic Director for the 2009 FISM World
Championship of Magic in Beijing.
The S.A.M. dedicated this year’s convention to Hank. As part of the celebration, the June issue of M-U-M
carried a cover story about Hank, and the 2011 convention program was a special Hank Moorehouse com-
memorative issue. It was decided that the tribute to Hank, originally scheduled at the convention for Saturday
should be moved to the start of the convention as a celebration of his life. A film, with material collected from
the Moorehouse family, was shown and is expected to be released on YouTube for public viewing.
Our hearts go out to Jackie Moorehouse, who made Hank’s life worth living, and to his family members – a
daughter, Kim, two sons, Buddy and David, and their collective nine grandchildren and one great grandchild – all
of whom meant so much to Hank.
Hank passed away doing what he loved to do best – producing magic shows at venues where the talent
he booked could dazzle audiences and bring credit to the art of magic. A memorial service and broken wand
ceremony is being planned for Hank sometime during the time of the Abbott’s Get-Together. —Bradley Jacobs

GOOD CHEER LIST

Please take a minute and spread a few words of cheer with a card or note to one of our less fortunate members.
William “Bill” Andrews John “Kermit” Dickerson Robert D. Knigge Cesareo Pelaez Grant Schofield
298 West Lane 10809 Balentine, PO Box 5, The Cabot St. Theatre (The Great Granzini)
Stamford, CT 06905 Denton, TX 76207 Jones Borough, TN 3765 286 Cabot St. 9303 Quailbrook Ct.
Beverly, MA 01918 Bakersfield, CA 93312
Ben “Benjalini” Ankri Dan A. Dorsey Stanley R. Kramien
3111 Aurelia Ct. 98 Woodvalley Dr. 11205 SW Summerfield Dr. Larry Poague Sybill Simons
Brooklyn, NY 11210 Fayetteville, GA 30215 Apt 161 34221 West 90 Circle 65 West 95 St. Apt 3A
Tigard, OR 97224-3391 Desota, KS 66108 New York, NY 10025
Peter Anthony Joe DuPerry
5100 O’Bannon Dr. Apt 72 1947 North Soldier Trail Richard Laneau Jim Relyea Sam Stecher
Las Vegas, NV 89146 Tucson, AZ 85749 4020 55th St. N. 241 W. Lakeshore 1000 Loring Ave Apt. C-23
St. Petersburg, FL 33709 Rockaway, NJ 07866 Salem, MA 01970- 4253
Roger Barr Joseph H. (Ben) Grant
883 B Leverpool Circle, 400 Commonwealth Ave, Unit 9 George Gilbert Lott Harry Riser Mario Susi
Manchester, NJ 08759 Warwick, RI 02886 1725 Great Hill Rd. 8505 Woodfield Crossing 6 Bristol Rd.
Guilford, CT 06437 The Forum W. Peabody, MA 01960
William H. Brewe Charlie Gross Indianapolis, IN 46240
1698 Montrose 16745 Gertrude Street, Frank J. McNaughton, Sr Larry Taverner
Cincinnati, OH 45214 Omaha, NE 60136-3023 1926 Apple Street, Dale Rumsmoke 805 LaPaz Ct.
Williamsport, PA 17701 430 Perrymont Ave Bakersfield, CA 93312
John Clark Roy Horn Lynchburg, VA 24502
603 W Country Club Rd. c/o Siegfried & Roy James J. Morrisey Jack White
Egg Harbor City, NJ 08215 1639 N Valley Drive, 24 Grove St. Pat Ryan 4288 Arguello St.
Las Vegas, NV 89108 Wayland, MA 01788 43 Fairbanks Rd. San Diego, CA 92103
Lawrence Clark Churchville, NY 14428
204 Hazelwood Ave Edward Kelly Anthony Murphy
Buffalo, NY 14215 224-15 64 Avenue, 11 Angel Rd., Matt Savin
Bayside, NY 11364 North Reading, MA 01864 P.O. Box 7693
Daniel Cudennec Alhambra, CA 91802-7533
“Dany Trick” Bob King Nahmen Nissen
225, Stang-ar-Veil- 304 Suburban Court, PO Box 1856 Helene Schad
d’an-Traon, Mellac-29300, Rochester, NY 14620 Colfax, CA 95713-1856 2440 Viginia Ave.
Quimperle, France Bensalem, PA 19020

Send additions, changes, or deletions to: Anthony Antonelly, Chairman, Sick and Convalescent Committee,
(215) 820-3192 ext. 1512. Email: magicforfun60@aol.com

AUGUST 2011 25
 A Magician Prepares...
by Dennis Loomis
The DeLo Cut
In his 1973 book Rim Shots, Harry Lorayne introduced an Notice that the tip of
excellent move to card magic – the HaLo cut. (The name is formed the left thumb presses
from the first two letters of Harry’s first and last names.) While down on the top of the
that book is now out of print, it is available as part of Harry’s deck in the upper left
2008 book, The Classic Collection 2. In fact, Harry updated the corner, as the tips of the left
newer book and it contains more details and some new routines index and middle fingers push
and handlings for the HaLo cut. upward on the bottom of the
While you’ll need to consult one of the Lorayne books deck immediately below the spot
mentioned above to learn the HaLo cut, in this article I’ll share my where the thumb presses downward.
own move, which combines a version of the Halo cut with a Kelly As soon as this grip is achieved, the right hand starts a swivel cut
bottom placement (also known as the Ovette Master Move) to of the deck at approximately the center of the deck. However, due
achieve a different purpose. The original HaLo cut appeared to be to the left hand’s grip, the bottom card of the deck will ride along
a simple straight cut of the deck; it actually kept the bottom card in alignment with the upper half, as seen in Photo 3.
on the bottom. The DeLo cut also appears to be a straight cut of
the deck, but it keeps the two bottom cards on the bottom. It also
exchanges the positions of those two bottom cards. If you have 3
maneuvered a selected card to the bottom of the deck, and then do
the DeLo cut, the selection will now be the second card from the
bottom, thus allowing you to freely handle the deck, flashing the
bottom card (which is now an indifferent card). Later, you might
like to do another DeLo cut to return the selection to the bottom.
We’ll start with the assumption that the selected card is on
the bottom of the deck, although your spectators should not know
this. With the deck held in standard dealer’s position, the right
hand comes over and grips the deck in Biddle grip as in Photo 1.
As soon as the right hand takes this grip, the left hand switches its
position to the grip seen in Photo 2

As soon as the packets are completely separated, the packet in

1 the right hand, which was the bottom half of the deck, is raised
upward so that it can be placed on top of the cards in the left hand.
But as that is done, the right hand’s middle and ring fingers spring
the lower card downward in the typical Kelly bottom placement

position. As the two packets coalesce, the card slides to the bottom
of the lower packet, as seen in Photo 4. The deck is then replaced
into dealing position in the left hand; the selected card has been
moved to its new position second from the bottom. The deck can
now be handled very freely and the bottom card can be flashed.
Later, should you wish to bring the selection back to the bottom,
another complete DeLo cut can be performed.

26 M-U-M Magazine
 How would you like to add balloons to your magic show can make a Lota Bowl entertaining, then this should be like
while not having to twist figures for each of the kids in the fireworks on the Fourth of July; this is almost automatic fun
audience? For our past few columns, we’ve been sharing ideas compared to pouring water out of a suspicious looking jug!
that we use; in May we showed how to make a ball and use it Daniel started with T. Myers’s idea of having a title (Myers
as an interactive pre-show warm-up; in June we showed how to called his the “Giant Tasmanian Man-eating Devil Balloon”)
make a costume around a spectator. This month’s balloon is a and the tag line that it would be made the “first time…every
show-feature similar to the Lota Bowl, only with balloons and time.” Then he punched it up with his own antics and personali-
no water to worry about. ty. We will share Daniel’s routine here, but you need to infuse it
In 1991, Tom Myers of T. Myers Magic out of Austin, Texas, with your own style and personality. The essence of this hinges
published his comb-bound notes Life on the Living Room on the fact that it is nearly impossible to envision what the
Circuit: A Magic Birthday Party Blueprint. Tom did a great job completed model will look like when only the various parts are
combining magic and balloons, and one of his best routines in seen individually; the kids think that you are more than a little
those notes was a running gag in which he created each of the bit silly, since it doesn’t happen the “first time, every time.”
different parts of a larger balloon sculpture between each trick; In this routine you will be making a big duck (because it
at the end of the show he connected the pieces into the larger is black, it is similar to a parody of Daffy Duck), but you call
sculpture. While Tom was not the first to do multiple-balloon it the “Giant Tasmanian Purple People Eater.” Since the color
creations, this ongoing “bit” was a great idea. (purple) is called out in the title, we have found that this drives
the kids crazy, because they immediately point out that it is not a
purple balloon. This sets up a very playful and fun conflict with
The Running Gag Balloon Creation the audience for this gag. Some patter ideas will be included
in italics along with the twisting instructions. As always, give
You can do this! Almost any balloon creation that you make this a try and have fun. It can be a very strong part of your chil-
that uses more than one balloon can be used for this showpiece. dren’s show and it is another excellent way to feature balloons
You simply make each piece independently, and then put it all without having to make one for every child in the crowd. At the
together at the end of your show. By staggering this between end, this can be presented to the birthday child. Because of the
other parts of your magic show, it ties in the balloons through- way that it is made during the show, we have never been asked
out the show and gives the running gag a wonderful home. to make another one for someone else later. That is like magic
However, as with any good magic routine, a lot of the enter- itself! If you have any questions or comments, contact us by
tainment value will come from your presentation. If anyone email at theballoonguys@hotmail.com.

Requirements: This is made with the top of the duck’s head, the back of
260Q balloons. You need two onyx- the head, and his neck…but for now it
blacks, one white, one orange, and one is just a twelve-inch bubble.
goldenrod. (If you don’t have goldenrod,
another orange is fine, but you lose The remainder of the balloon will be
the contrast between the feet and the made into what is called a “three-bub-
beak.) ble push through” with just two inches
left for the tail. You are going to twist
Step 1 – The Body: Explain to the three bubbles that are all the same
audience what you are about to do: “I size; start with a fourteen-inch bubble.
am going to make the Giant Tasmanian Remember, you must securely hold the
Purple People Eater…first time, every first twelve-inch bubble while doing this
time!” Pull out the black balloon and or it will untwist (Photo 1).
inflate it, leaving about two inches un-
inflated. From the nozzle, come down Lay the remainder of the balloon next to
Giant Tasmanian twelve inches to pinch and twist the first this fourteen-inch bubble to measure a
Purple People Eater bubble. Later this bubble will become second fourteen-inch bubble, and twist

AUGUST 2011 27
it (Photo 2). Now lock these two bubbles together (Photo time, but politely dismiss them as you inflate the balloon
3). The remainder of the balloon is again set next to these completely. You only need a few inches of the white
two bubbles to measure and twist a third bubble. Ideally, balloon, so make two bubbles that are three inches long
there should be about two to four inches remaining, which and lock them together by actually tying the nozzle into the
will be the tail (Photo 4). With the third bubble lying on the joint (Photo 7). Do not remove the remainder yet.
other two, you literally “push” or roll this bubble between
the other two to lock in a three-bubble body (Photos Look puzzled at this creation; scratch your head. The kids
5 and 6). will start yelling out ideas of what it is, so acknowledge
some of their ideas by repeating what they say. “Yes! It’s
As you complete this portion, look puzzled at the odd a (whatever the kids say).” After a couple of their ideas
creation and say, “Hey wait a minute…this isn’t purple! Why are acted out, stop and say, “No! I’ve got it! It’s a golf club!
didn’t you guys tell me?” (Believe me, you won’t have to say (Swing it around like a pro and talk about the new flexible
it for the second section; they will all yell about it not being shaft that helps your swing.) Well, it’s obviously not the Giant
purple as soon as you blow it up!) “This obviously isn’t the Tasmanian Purple People Eater – I’ll just get back to that later.”
Giant Tasmanian Purple People Eater…um, it’s a…it’s a…(and Set this balloon aside and go back to the magic show.
the kids will start yelling things out, so go with whatever
they say such as…) …a coon skin cap? (Put it on your head.) Step 3 – Beak: Inflate the orange balloon, leaving about
No, it’s not that! How about a shoe? (Lift one foot in the air three-inches uninflated. “I am going to make the Giant
and hold the balloon next to your foot.) No, it’s not that! Tasmanian Purple People Eater…first time, every time!” Again,
I think it’s an old man’s cane!” Grab the shortest bubble, the kids should shout about the color not being purple,
hunch your back over like a rickety old man, and take a but just go on. Make two six-inch fold twists side by side,
few steps around the stage. “Well, it’s obviously not the Giant by taking approximately six inches of balloon and folding it
Tasmanian Purple People Eater – I’ll just get back to that later.” back on itself; twist this fold together at the nozzle (Photo
Set this balloon aside and get back to the magic show. 8). Take the remainder of the balloon and make a big loop
out of it by taking the uninflated nipple and attaching it into
Step 2 – The Eyes: Pull out the white 260Q and proudly the joint of the two fold twists (Photos 9 and 10).
state, “I am going to make the Giant Tasmanian Purple People
Eater…first time, every time!” The kids should immediately Ideas will come forward about it being a hair bow, a hat, or
have an uproarious fit about the color of the balloon this a fish. Proudly announce that it is any of these objects, then

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10
28 M-U-M Magazine
 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20

say, “Well, it’s obviously not the Giant Tasmanian Purple People Step 5 – Arms: Fully inflate the black 260Q, except for one
Eater – I’ll just get back to that later.” Set this balloon aside inch. To make a simple hand on each end, twist a two-inch
and go back to the magic show. bubble followed by a five-inch fold twist (Photo 14). As
with the legs in Step 4, squeeze the air in the remainder
Step 4 – Legs: The legs are made from a single goldenrod of the balloon down into the uninflated end, then repeat
260Q (or orange if you don’t have this color). Inflate it fully, making a two-inch bubble and a five-inch fold twist. It will
leaving about one inch uninflated. “I am going to make the look like Photo 15.
Giant Tasmanian Purple People Eater…first time, every time!”
By this point, the kids think you are nuts, but they are “It’s alien antennae…take me to your leader! (Say this in a
laughing with you about the color of the balloon not being funny alien voice.) It’s a wiener dog without a head! It’s…
purple. Make a half-inch bubble followed by three three- it’s…” Immediately go to the next step and bring the
inch bubbles (Photo 11), and attach the three bubbles into a creation together.
triangle (Photo 12). Squeeze the balloon slightly to get the .
air down into the uninflated portion and repeat the same Step 6 – Putting It Together: As you are staring at the
four bubbles at the other end. The result will be as shown arms, you need to get excited and say, “Wait, it is the Giant
in Photo 13. Tasmanian Purple People Eater…or at least part of it! Watch!
(Put the arms down and grab the body from Step 1.) If I take
Look at this creation and then suggest what it could be. “It’s the Old Man’s Cane and attach the new flexi-shaft golf club…”
a phone – can you hear me now? It’s an antenna for a bug. It’s As you say this, you need to make another three-bubble
a giant smile for a big smiley face. (Hold it up in front of your push through using the two white bubbles and a new black
face and smile!) Well, it’s obviously not the Giant Tasmanian bubble. Twist a one-inch bubble at the top of the twelve-
Purple People Eater – I’ll just get back to that later.” Set this inch black bubble and then a three-inch bubble (Photo 16);
balloon aside and go back to your magic show. lay the two white bubbles on this black bubble and roll it

AUGUST 2011 29
 21 22 23

between them (Photos 17 and 18). While this

is happening, you need to pop the long part of
the white balloon. You can make it look like a
mistake, but you don’t need to. Save the white
piece if you can.

“If I add the Alien Antennae…” Take the arms from

Step 5, and position the center at the base of the 24
twelve-inch bubble under the eyes (Photo 19)
and wrap the balloon around the neck making
a collar; pinch it together and twist to attach
(Photo 20).

“Now all I need is the big smile...” Grab the legs,

pinch in the center, and attach this joint to the
bottom of the body at the joint where the tail is
(Photo 21). “…and if I add the Fish…” Take the
orange balloon figure and push the joint of the
fold twists into the base of the eyes (Photos 22
and 23). To put some shape in the beak, gently
bend the end of the beak upward toward the
eyes (Photo 24). Tie the piece of scrap white
balloon around the neck (Photo 25) and position
the hands and feet forward – it’s done! “Now that 25
is one Giant Tasmanian Purple People Eater! Well,
maybe it’s just a really big duck!” Draw on the eyes
as shown.

If you follow the pictures, you will see how

simple this actually is. The final product may
look intimidating, but it’s just another example
of the Power of Bending Air to make something
more than anyone had expected. Give it a try
and hopefully we have enticed you to add a new
running gag to your children’s shows. 

30 M-U-M Magazine
 We have lots of tech stuff to catch up on this month. I hope for your phone will track it wherever it is. You can also track the
you all read the article about the S.A.M.’s very own iDevice app device on your computer.
called magicSAM. In just four weeks, the app was download- As a publicity stunt, I immediately thought of planting it in a
ed to over one thousand devices. If you haven’t downloaded it stuffed animal or in a secret compartment of a box; a celebrity
yet, please give it a try. It’s free and available at the iTunes app hides it somewhere in the city and you find it. You can read all
store. If enough people continue to show an interest in it, we about the Garmin GTU 10 at www.garmin.com.
will work to move it to other phone platforms.
Revealing Wonders
Looks like Magic
The following two tricks are both
Although I’m not a watch very clever. They take two different
guy anymore (why wear one approaches to the revelation of a card.
– just look at your phone Both require no forcing of the card.
or ask someone the time), I really like Marvel Card. Before I go
a really cool tech watch any further, I will say in bold italics that
caught my eye. It evidently it is only for the iPhone with operating
catches other people’s eyes, system 4. It is not for the iPad or the
because everyone who sees iPod Touch.
me wearing it asks me about A card is freely selected and placed
it. The LED watch looks like face down on top of the iPhone. The
a thick bracelet, but when you magician waves his hand over everything and the iPhone now
hit the button, the numbers shows the selected card. It is that direct. I have to tell you that
show through. It comes with blue or red LED lights. Although this method has never been done before. As a developer, I have
it appears expensive, you can get them for a whopping $10! Buy to ask myself, “Why didn’t I think of that?” Buy a deck of the
one of each. Just troll around eBay and search for “men’s LED new S.A.M. cards and have fun with this app. You’ll put it on
watch.” While working at the Magic Castle recently, a magician your front screen. Marvel Card is available at the iTunes app
of some note was talking to me about all the high priced shows store for $1.99.
he was currently working. I glanced at his wrist and noticed The other app is called the Magic
that he was wearing one of these $10 watches. Expensive, no. X-Ray Card Scanner. A card is
Cool, yes. selected and placed on the table. A
spectator places her hand over the
card. You explain that you have an
Like Kreskin with His Paycheck app that can take x-rays. Place the
iPhone over the back of the specta-
Are you a traveling tor’s hand, press the scan button,
magician? Do you worry and an x-ray of her hand appears
about your luggage getting along with a picture of the selected
lost? I received an email card.
from Ryan Oakes, who dis- This app works with the iPhone
covered a neat little gadget and iPod Touch. It will work with
while reading Inc. magazine. the iPad, but you’ll have to keep the
It’s called the GTU 10. It’s app small on the screen. Once again, a force is not needed. The
a waterproof GPS transmit- app is slick, and although the method has been used before, it is
ter the size of a lighter. Ryan well executed. The Magic X-Ray Card Scanner can be down-
thought it would be a great loaded from the iTunes app store for $0.99. 
way to track your props if
you often check them as Bruce is always on the lookout for computer magic, iPhone/
luggage on flights. Illusionists could put one in each case. Just iPod Touch apps, and tech toys that can be used in magic
stick one in your show case, which sometimes gets “lost” on applications. If you have any suggestions for future columns,
flights and you’ll be able to tell the airlines where it is. An app write to Bruce at SAMtalkBruce@cox.net.

AUGUST 2011 31
 The Nielsen Gallery
Thurston Iasia – Vanished in the Theatre’s Dome
Dimensions: One-sheet: 27” x 41” • Lithographer: Otis Lithograph Co., Cleveland, Ohio
Date:1920s • Nielsen Rating: Limited Availability

As the Roaring Twenties came to a close, Howard roof of the illusion. Here’s how it happened. The illusion
Thurston desperately needed a new and exciting illusion contained a pull-down ladder that allowed the girl to climb
for his Wonder Show of the Universe. Imagine his excite- up into the roof. As she hid herself, the floor of the cage
ment when a forty-five-year old Englishman told him he slid upward assisted by counterweights concealed in the
could create an illusion in which a flesh and blood woman, hollow posts of the cage. When Thurston fired his pistol,
suspended from the dome of the theater, vanished over the the curtains dropped, the bottom fell open, and the girl was
heads of the audience. That illusion, Iasia, is the subject of gone.
this month’s poster. Thurston thought the illusion was so strong that for a
The man who created Iasia was Cyril Yettmah, an time he closed his show with it. However, the disappear-
illusion builder for The Great Raymond and The Great ance was so startling that the audience was frequently too
Lafayette, and who, from 1928 to 1930, perfected a wide amazed to applaud. He later moved it to the penultimate
range of illusions for Thurston. In the program, Iasia was spot in the show and closed instead with The Mystery of the
described as, “The unattainable attained. The impossible Water Fountain.
realized.” And for audiences, it must have seemed so. Not only was this a dangerous illusion, dangling many
Michael Edwards, writing in the December 1999 issue of hundreds of pounds of wooden cage over the heads of the
Genii, described the illusion: audience, it was also very difficult to set. Herman Hanson,
The illusion began with a girl dressed in long flowing who traveled with the show, recalled that this was the job of
robes entering a “Hindu prayer cage” – in reality, an George White, Thurston’s number one assistant. It involved
upright, four-sided skeleton cabinet. Its framework was him climbing the catwalks above the theater ceiling
open on all sides; the thinness of its bottom and the narrow- searching for a girder with a painter’s hole beneath it from
ness of its ornamental top were readily apparent. Slowly, which to secure the rigging. “The life of the girl assistant
the cage with the girl standing inside was hoisted into the depended upon it, as well as that of the audience directly
air and pulled up and out over the heads of the specta- below, as the cage traveled over their heads. Imagine what
tors. Once above the footlights, there would be a pause in would happen if the rigging gave way.”
its upward journey. At that moment Thurston would intone, This happened, in fact, in Youngstown, Ohio, during a
“Salaam, Iasia – swing forth the old Hindu prayer cage.” test performance. The cage with a boy assistant inside fell
Again the cage would continue its ascent. The girl would shortly after it swung out over the footlights, smashing the
lower curtains on all four sides of the cabinet, proving she orchestra railing and three chairs. The boy was not injured.
was still inside. As is so frequently the case, this was not a comfort-
As the cage traveled over the audience to the theater’s able illusion for the girl. At the end of the trick she had to
top, she would toss Thurston good-luck cards through remain crouched inside the thin top until everyone in the
the slits in the curtains to the spectators below. When the audience had left the theater. In fact, in Jim Steinmeyer’s
cabinet finally reached the ceiling, it would come to a halt, new biography of Thurston, The Last Greatest Magician in
suspended from the auditorium’s dome with no visible means the World, he writes that the “girl” who vanished was Thur-
of escape. Thurston, with pistol in hand, would command, ston’s stage manager George Townsend, who donned a wig
“One, seven, Iasia, Garawallah go!” A shot would ring out, and oriental robe to play the role of the lovely Iasia.
the curtains would drop, and the hinged bottom of the cage The original Iasia cabinet was among the ruins of
would fall open. The girl had vanished. Thurston’s show that collectors and historians Mike
“She is gone,” Thurston would announce. “Those above Caveney, Bill Self, and Robert Self found in Gerald Heaney’s
may look down on the top of the cage. Those below may look Berlin, Wisconsin, barn in 1988. Heaney had acquired much
through the bottom, which is open. She is gone…just gone… of Thurston’s illusions, but after years of neglect the cage
Every performance I stand here in amazement, wondering was nothing more than a rusted steel frame.
where she has gone and if she will ever come back.” He’d Although quite pricey these days, Iasia posters could be
pause and then add wryly, “She always does come back… had cheaply at one time. In the early 1950s Claude D. Nobel
on payday.” was offering readers of Genii, The Sphinx, and other magic
To vanish a girl on stage is one thing. When a girl disap- publications single copies of Iasia posters for one dollar,
pears in the dome of the theater directly above the heads of two posters for two dollars; three posters or more, seventy-
the audience, it’s another matter. The illusion remained in five cents each. The same deal was offered for seven other
Thurston’s repertoire for the rest of his life. now rare lithographs. Who wouldn’t buy them today at that
So, where did she go? She hid in the narrow, decorated price? 
32 M-U-M Magazine
33 M-U-M Magazine
 BASIC TRAINING
BY IAN KENDALL

Cards to Wherever
Welcome back to Basic Training. This month we are going to to those who can (and do) palm, a few words to those of you who
be looking at a slightly more advanced technique with cards, one are just starting out on the road. Palming is one of the families
that has the added benefit of using (for the most part) palming. If of techniques where a lot happens at the same time. Too often
you can already palm a playing card without too much trouble, the instruction for a palm will involve three actions happening at
then this should be no problem for you; but if you are learning to once, and the student is expected to muddle through things on his
palm, or haven’t yet dipped the toe into this threatening (but very own. People who have been reading my column for a while will
worthwhile) pastime, then I have some tips and suggestions for know that this is not how I like to do things, and I would strongly
you as well. The end result is that we will be able to get a selected suggest finding a tutor who will break things down for you for
card into our pocket or wallet quickly and efficiently. Once we easy learning. Luckily, there are three such teachers out there (and
have the mechanics down we can talk about the blocking and I’m excluding myself from this list for reasons that will become
the attention direction we need to make the effect all that more clear), any of whom would be an excellent choice.
magical. First off, Editor Mike has a number of options; in Workers
Before we look at the palming and loading of a card, let’s have Three there is a chapter called, simply, On Palming, which is the
a look at what we are trying to achieve. The “plot” of “card to first pedagogical approach to learning palming. A few years later
impossible location” is – to the spectator at least – very clear to he produced a video called The Power of Palming, which is a great
understand and usefully passes the “one sentence” test of clarity. study aid for the Workers lessons. More recently, there are the
From our side of the deck, however, it gets a lot more complex: first three volumes of The Work ebooks series, which expand on
What is the final location? How does it get there? How can I do the two former lessons, combining detailed text, photographs, and
this without being seen? How can I prove it was the original card? clear video to help the student learn. (Three years ago, when I first
That last point is one of the more important ones, lest we discussed this column with Mike, I said that I wouldn’t be teaching
get caught out by the Too Perfect Theory we talked about a few palming because I felt the perfect lessons already existed. These
months back. Let us imagine a hypothetical effect from the point are they.) The second recommended teacher is John Carney, who
of view of a spectator. A card is selected and remembered. It is many of you will know as a true master of sleight of hand. He has
returned to the deck, and then the magician immediately shows a DVD on palming that can be obtained from his Web site. Finally,
his hand empty and removes his wallet. Inside the wallet is a card there is Bob White, who also teaches his approach on a DVD that
that matches the selection. While this effect is achievable (and is available from your local dealer.
we will be looking at it later), there is one glaring problem with Once you have chosen your course materials, you need to
the structure: the majority of people are most likely to jump to spend some time actually learning to palm cards. Unfortunately,
the conclusion of duplicate cards. No amount of protestation by this is not an overnight task – we are talking weeks and months
the magician will have any effect to dispel this plausible solution. (and more likely the latter). Don’t worry, we’ll still be here, so take
If we cannot change their minds after the fact, let’s change them your time and go through the steps one by one.
before. (And here comes a proclamation that is bound to get me The goal, despite not being strictly necessary, is to be able to
some flak.) Whenever you produce a card from an impossible palm from the top of the deck with one hand. If you can palm
location, it has to be identifiable as the original selection. Most of cards already, but haven’t had a go at the one-hand palm, then
the time this will mean being signed on the face, but it can also this is worth the effort. The two-hand palm – top or bottom –
include the “torn corner” ploy. Having that level of confirmation demands some type of motivation for you to come from an open
at the end of the effect will remove the “it’s a duplicate” solution into a closed position. (Without that motivation you may be guilty
before it has a chance to be heard. of “squaring up a squared deck.”) When you can palm one-hand-
ed, there are a multitude of justifications you can have for moving
the deck from hand to hand, and even a small gesture towards a
Palming spectator with an empty left hand will give you ample time to
Of course, if we are going to produce a selection from a palm a card. One-hand palming is the way to go…
pocket or wallet, there is one particular branch of sleight of hand
that we must tackle head on. (I know there are a few methods
for achieving this effect without palming, but none of them is as Now What?
strong as the palming versions. Trust me on that.) Before we talk Okay, you’ve palmed a card, and are standing awkwardly,

34 M-U-M Magazine
hoping that no one is going to try to shake your hand. First off,
think back to the lessons on palming coins from last year. When
you have an object palmed in your hand, the hand must “die” as it
falls to your side. If you have a video camera (or even a Webcam
on your computer), take a two-minute video of yourself simply
standing still. When you watch it back, pay special attention to
how your arms hang; there is no tension there, and there should be
none when you are holding out. Guilt will kill you here, so make
sure that you have spent a good chunk of your learning-to-palm
time holding a card and being completely natural as you stand.
(Many years ago, in a lecture, Editor Mike said that you should
watch Patrick Stewart in Star Trek to see how a consummate actor
holds his arms and hands when delivering dialogue.)
The second thing to watch out for is The Hook. I hope you will Photo 1
have dealt with this as part of your lessons, but I’ll briefly touch
on it again. Look at your neutral video; especially observe your
hands. Look at how your thumb rests alongside your index finger;
this is how your hand should look as you palm a card. If your
thumb is sticking out at ninety degrees from the rest of your hand,
then you need to work on loosening up a bit. The Hook happens
for two main reasons. First, you are not relaxed and you have some
guilt about palming a card; this means that you are concentrat-
ing too much on the card in your palm, and not enough on being
natural. It takes tension to hold the thumb out at that angle, and
once you relax your mind you will find it a lot easier to relax your
thumb. The second reason is more physical. It’s possible that your
pivot point is too far back, and the thumb is being pushed out
by corner of the card, making it uncomfortable to lay the thumb
against the side of the hand. If this is the case, you need to either
move the pivot point down, or learn to grin through the pain…
Photo 2

Loading Into the Pocket

Let’s look at the standard effect of producing a card from your enough to slide up to the top edge, where it takes the card and lifts
pants pocket. In many routines the load happens at exactly the it out of the pocket. The three outer fingers move out of the way as
time it is produced, and this means we have to be extra vigilant much as possible so that the image the spectators see is of the card
with our technique and attention management. Unfortunately, if being removed at the fingertips – ostensibly there is no way that it
we simply stuff our hands into the pocket without any thought, could have been in the palm in the first place (Photo 2). Everyone
most semi-intelligent spectators will discern the ulterior motive say, “Thank you, Gordon.”
behind our actions. Luckily, we have a bottle of Eau de Gordon
Bruce, who has given me permission to teach his excellent pocket
loading technique. Gordon first published this move in Epilogue, Francis Carlyle’s Homing Classic
buried in a small corner for a couple of paragraphs. Despite this, One of the books that everyone who aspires to sleight of hand
it caught on very quickly, and for many card men it became the should own is the blue bible, Stars of Magic. A collection of a
standard handling. Many years ago Gordon told me that it doesn’t series of pamphlets that were put out in the Forties, it contains a
work with jeans (you have to be wearing more formal clothes), gold mine of workable, amazing magic. Meir Yedid has recently
but as you will see in the photos, I’ve had no problem with my republished the book with the original photographs (which are a
jeans, although they are probably a bit looser than those from the heck of a lot better than the ones in my copy!) and he has very
Sixties... kindly allowed me to explain to you Francis Carlyle’s classic
Begin with your selection palmed in your right hand. If you Homing Card routine. Everyone say, “Thank you, Meir.”
usually use the little finger to anchor the card you will have to This really is one of the classics. I used it in my Magic Castle
switch to the index finger just before you go for the load. As the set in January, and it’s been a mainstay of my working reper-
card reaches the mouth of the pocket, the lower right corner slides toire for as long as I can remember. The effect is stunning: a card
in and the middle, ring, and little fingers remain outside, while the travels to your pocket twice, and each time it is removed with an
index finger and thumb go in with the card. The card is pushed empty hand. There is a very simple set up. You need an indifferent
down by the base of the thumb, while the fingers on the outside of card in your pocket to start, back out to the audience. Now, you
the pants provide all the cover needed. Photo 1 shows an exposed might think it would be a good idea to have the card loaded at the
view of this action. The hand continues down until the index start of your show, but experience has shown me that the heat of
finger cannot go any further, at which point it releases the card the room, and your thigh, will put a warp in the card that could be

AUGUST 2011 35
 BASIC TRAINING
a flag to an observant person. The best solution to this is to palm selection. Bury it in the deck and offer to repeat the effect. Since
a card while you are talking to your group and casually place it in the selection is already in the pocket, you can milk the production
your pocket. If you do this without thinking, or noticing it, no one for all you are worth!
else will. Now, have a card selected and signed, and then control it I heard an apocryphal story about how Dai Vernon handled the
to the top of the deck using whatever works for you. reload of the selection, but I don’t know of an official source. Once
Comment that you will make the card fly into your pocket; here the selection had been produced, he said that he would explain
you can get creative. I usually explain that the card will fly around how it got there; he moved the card up his left arm, across his
the room umpteen times, following a more and more convoluted chest, down his right side, and placed it into his pocket, where it
path, but again, this is a personal choice. As the card finishes its was switched. I must confess I’ve never used this handling, pre-
path around the room (which I follow intently), I tap the outside of ferring to load on the offbeat, but you might like to give it a try.
my pocket with my right fingers. This serves two purposes; it acts
as punctuation for the travel of the card, and (because I can feel Plan B
it though my pocket) it lets me check that I did, in fact, preload a If you haven’t loaded a card in advance, there is an alternative
card. A couple of times, usually when I wasn’t planning to do the that uses Gordon’s load straight off. It’s not as elegant, but it does
routine, I have forgotten to and had to go to plan B. serve the purpose. The idea is to load the card using attention
Assuming you are not as scatterbrained as I was back then, management, and there’s no room for subtlety! The method I used
you show your hand very empty and reach into your pocket with was this: I would describe the path of the card, ending with, “And
your finger and thumb. Pull the card halfway out, peek down at it lands in your handbag,” while pointing to a woman on my right.
the index in a very obvious way, and announce, “There it is, your I would then pause as if expecting her to look. After a short while,
card!” Photo 3. Push the card back into your pocket and look up aided by a raised eyebrow or two, she would look, and the whole
as if to expect a round of applause. You will get called on this, audience would turn to see. At this point I would load the card
and it is during this moment that you palm the selection from the into my pocket. Just as she looked I would exclaim, “But it doesn’t
top of the deck and, feigning upset that anyone would doubt your stop there,” and produce the card from my pocket. I have no idea
where I learned that presentation, but I’m fairly sure it’s been done
that way for years.
There is an interesting story that goes with this. Years ago I
was preparing a Fringe show and I had some layperson help from
my friend Stuart. He knew this method for the card to pocket, and
saw the show a couple of times. On the third show I changed to
using the Carlyle method, and when I produced the card without
having gone to the pocket before, there was a collective “Ooh”
from the audience and a very loud “Eh?” from Stuart...

The Adlib Jacket Load

Occasionally, you will want to produce a card from your jacket
pocket without having to bother with loading it first. Here is a
method for doing just this. At the time, I was convinced I had
Photo 3

Photo 4
skill, you load and remove the card using Gordon’s method. Turn
it around slowly, to show that it really is the signed selection.
Done correctly, there is no way you will not get a good response
to this, and as you accept the applause, you place the selection
back into your pocket, again without drawing attention to it, and
remove the indifferent card, leaving the selection in your pocket.
(This is why we don’t want a heat crimp in the card. Sometimes
the selection gets that banana look in half a second; if you get
a round of applause at this point you know something has gone
wrong...)
You are now holding the indifferent card in your right hand.
Glance at the face, without showing it, and miscall it as the

36 M-U-M Magazine
 Cards to Wherever

Oh, there it is, so I’ll take it out with my left hand. I’d better hold
Photo 5 my jacket out to make it easier to get in.”
Following the lead of that script, here’s what happens. As you
look to your right chest, your left hand begins to move up towards
your jacket. Your right fingers curl over the front edge of the deck,
and as the right hand moves to hold your jacket open the thumb
lifts up the rear corner of the deck to separate the bottom card.
(This is the start of the Kelly-Ovette bottom placement, see Photo
4.) The selection is hooked behind the edge of the jacket as it is
held open, a few inches below the level of the inner pocket. Photo
5 shows an exposed view of this. Your left hand enters the jacket
horizontally, but as soon as it passes the wrist, it bends down and
the fingertips extend as far as you can to pinch the card, taking it
from the right fingers. The motion of the left hand is reversed, and
the card is removed from the jacket, several inches away from the
deck in the right hand (Photo 6).

Wallet Tales
One of the most enduring effects for working professionals is
the Card in Wallet. There are almost as many different types of
wallets as there are makes of playing cards, and whichever one
you choose will be another one of those personal choices. With the
majority of the wallets it is possible to quickly load the card as you
remove the wallet, but I’ve always preferred to do things in two
Photo 6 stages. The card is half loaded into the wallet in the pretence of
removing something that is needed (a pen, wand or, more recently
for me, the Unbelievably Useful Comedy Prop). The routine
continues for a moment, and then the hand can be shown empty as
it goes to the pocket, completing the load and removing the wallet.
Here’s another cautionary story. For many years I used the
same wallet for a burned note routine – this involved loading with
my left hand into the right jacket pocket. Once, I put my wallet
into my left pocket for a close-up show, but put it in the wrong
way round, so that the loading slide was against my body. I went
to load the card, had a wee panic for a second until I realized
what was happening, and then I dropped the card into my pocket
to continue. Luckily, the folks at the table were not the most
observant group; I had time, while they were talking, to go to my
pocket, get the card and load it on the “wrong” side. The moral?
Always check your props; before any gig at which I’m using the
wallet, I always do a dummy load before I start.

Final Thoughts
The Card to Pocket is a wonderful routine that will separate
the men from the boys (and the ladies from the girls, natch). If you
invented a masterpiece until I showed it to Roy Walton, who can learn to palm adroitly, it’s the perfect effect to use your new
simply said, “Ah yes, Marlo.” Foiled again. skills, and is a good, achievable goal if you are starting out. It’s
Start by controlling the selection to the bottom of the deck. The a multi-venue effect, working equally well close-up and on stage.
deck is held in an overhand grip in the right hand. Your internal I hope you are all having a good summer; I’ll see you again next
script goes a little like this: “The card is in my right jacket pocket. month. 

AUGUST 2011 37
 i left my
cards at HOME by
marshall
steve

magic table that he had found the plans to have a lot of bad ideas before you have
for in the Mark Wilson Course in Magic. a good one. The important thing is to
While street performing, Louie keep trying stuff; don’t listen to anyone
caught the eyes of Sheila Lyon and Darryl else if they tell you not to do something.
Beckmann, the owners of the Market A lot of people told me I shouldn’t do
Magic Shop at Pike Place Market; they shadowgraphy in a comedy club, but I
offered Louie a job working as a dem- tried it anyway; today it’s my closer.”
onstrator in the shop. “Over the years Some of Louie’s recent accomplish-
working behind the counter at Market ments are breaking the Guinness book
Magic I learned so many pointers and world record by bouncing a soap bubble
tips from Sheila and Darryl; I owe a ton on his hand eighty-eight times, writing a
to them.” Another great thing that Sheila book on the Svengali deck that has sold
and Darryl did was to sponsor Louie to over 2,500 copies to date, getting his
go to the first Bob Fitch workshop up in stand-up comedian robot “ROBO” on
Canada when he was nineteen. Louie the TV show America’s Got Talent, and
got to spend nine days with Bob Fitch becoming a “rock star dad.”
studying not only magic but also theatri- Actually, when I caught up with Louie
cal techniques to make his performances to do this interview he was on the road
Louie Foxx stronger. Or as Louie puts it, “This was for three days doing summer library
one of the things that changed my life.” programs; he had his seven-year-old
Earlier this year, I was looking Another life changing experience daughter Ella with him performing. “Ella
around on the Internet for a bullwhip for Louie happened a few years earlier has probably done more shows at this
that I needed for a western routine I was when he was seventeen and he snuck into point than most adult amateur magicians.
working on. I came across bullwhips.org; a casino to see the juggling troupe The She loves performing with me and is
not only did the whips look nice, but the Raspini Brothers perform. He credits constantly coming up with new and
maker of these whips seemed interesting them for changing the way he looked at funny bits for the show.”
as well. I sent an email describing what I show business. “Up until that point all of As a matter of fact, we had to
wanted and then gave a call to the whip the magicians and variety artists I had finish our conversation because it
maker, Louie Foxx. seen were 1980s-style performers who was time for Ella’s bedtime story.
To my surprise, one of the first things used the same lines and did the same bits. A fringe benefit of working for Dad!
Louie said to me was, “Are you the same The Raspini Brothers were cool and hip
Steve Marshall who writes for the M-U-M and had original material and lines. It
magazine?” This delighted me; I was opened my eyes to writing my own stuff Facebook
happy to find out that he is a magician, and making it funny. So a lot of my style
he’s a member of the S.A.M., and he reads came out of them as well.” Prediction
this column! Louie has gone on to become quite
I have to say that after talking more successful in the magic and variety arts By Louie Foxx
with Louie the term “magician” is a fields. Today he can be found traveling and
little constricting for him, since he is doing everything from school shows and Effect: You have eight objects on
really a variety artist in the true sense summer camps for kids to comedy club the table and a prediction on the back of
of the word; he uses not only magic, but shows and casinos for adult audiences. your business card. With the help from
also juggling, shadowgraphy, silhouette He builds a lot of his own props and someone in the audience you narrow
cutting, whip cracking, comedy and, well, describes his character and his show as down the eight items to one (for this
just about whatever it takes to entertain “a bunch of stuff I learned to do as a kid.” example, let’s say it’s a watch). You turn
his audiences. This theme forced Louie to build a lot of over your business card to show a barcode
He was born Isaac Louie, and still uses his own props. As he puts it, “If I have and you do the classic gag invented
this name when publishing his material, a nice, slick-looking magic prop onstage by Fumio Inagaki of Japan as you say,
such as his September 2008 and April it looks out of place with my character. “That’s the barcode for a watch.”
2011 Linking Ring parades. He grew up With that thought in mind, nobody makes The barcode is then scanned by
in Seattle, Washington, and by the time props that look like junk, so I had to start someone in the audience with a Smart-
he was fourteen years old he was street building them myself.” phone and it takes him to your Facebook
performing at Seattle’s famous Pike Place When asked about his thoughts on fan page where your most recent update
Market, where he worked on a homemade creativity he said, “Sometimes you have is: “You will pick the watch.” Of course,

38 M-U-M Magazine
while they are on your fan page you have all you need is a business card and your
them click the “like” button. Smartphone, so you’re set to do this
Working: One of the cool things about anytime.
using a QR Barcode is that you can have I’d also suggest having the barcode
a barcode permanently printed on your printed on the back of your business
business card; by changing your status on card, and having the card printed by a
Facebook you can change the prediction. print shop. At www.gotprint.com you
Also, you get the bonus laugh by using can get 1,000 business cards with a full-
the barcode gag. To do this, simply have a color front and black-and-white backs
barcode that takes them to your Facebook for under $15. You’ll end up with a card
fan page printed on the back of your that’s a higher quality and one on which
business card. Here’s the front and back the barcode won’t bleed or smear if it gets
of my business card (Photo 1). wet.
To make a QR Barcode simply visit:
http://www.mobile-barcodes.com/qr-
code-generator/ and enter the URL of Steve’s Stuff
your Facebook page.
Before the show, update your You will notice that this trick is very
Facebook fan page to predict whatever similar to the trick that is printed on your
item you are going to force using the new S.A.M. membership card (if you
PATEO force. Show your prediction to be PHOTO 1 have received it already). I began working
a barcode, and have it scanned to reveal with S.A.M. President Vinny Grosso on
your prediction! the membership card effect at the end of
If you don’t know this force, it’s prediction on the back of your business last year. When Louie sent me this trick in
simple. PATEO stands for Pick Any Two card: April of this year I was really surprised to
Eliminate One. Start with eight items in a 1. Novelty: It’s visually more see how similar it was to what Vinny and
row and have a person from the audience interesting than just writing “watch” on I were working on. I really liked Louie’s
help you. Have him point to any two items the back of your card. presentation and the use of Facebook
in the row; you eliminate one of them. 2. Production Value: Having the card though, so I decided to use it here, the
Next you pick two and he eliminates one. scanned, and having someone read your month after the new membership cards
You continue alternating turns this way status update will make it play larger. came out. It’s a good lesson on how two
until you have one item left. When you 3. Bonus Gag: You get the classic people on opposite sides of the world can
are picking the two items, you never pick barcode gag, which you can’t do by just come up with basically the same idea with
the item you are going to force; when it’s writing on the back of your card. a different presentation. Thanks for con-
your turn to eliminate one, you never 4. Marketing: It gets someone directly tributing this Louie, and thanks for your
eliminate the one you are going to force. to your Facebook page, where you can understanding of why I had to hold it a
Notes: There are some advantages to connect with him or her later. few months. 
using a barcode over simply writing a 5. You Don’t Need a Pen: To do this

AUGUST 2011 39
 Jon Dorenbos must be one of the luckiest guys in the football across the street from his house. The dinner bell rang
world. He’s the long snapper for the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles. and he went home. His dad told him that his mom went for
He’s a magician who performs at some of the best A-list charity a walk with a friend. They ate dinner, hung out, and played
functions. He is a motivational speaker who presents programs chess for a while. The next morning, when Jon went to baseball
for varied groups from Fortune 500 companies to high schools camp, his dad told him that his mom had gone to the sports
all over the country. He is a television personality, often hosting club to swim. That afternoon, friends of the family arrived at
feature segments on a number of different shows. He’s a partner the baseball camp and told Jon that there had been an accident
in a successful framing business. He has a lovely and talented and he needed to go with them to the police station. He arrived
wife. He’s got it all…but it wasn’t always like this. Jon has a at the police station, but they wouldn’t tell him what happened.
unique story to tell about his life and how he got to this point. An officer who knew him through the DARE program at his
He was born in Humble, Texas, in 1980. His family moved school asked them to let him be the one who broke the news.
around a lot when he was a kid, finally ending up in Wood- When he arrived, he told Jon that his mom and dad had had
inville, Washington, just outside of Seattle, when Jon was six an argument, he pushed her down the stairs, and she died. His
years old. His dad worked for Microsoft, but he later moved over dad was being held in jail for questioning. His father pleaded
to a new startup company called Oracle. His family was like temporary insanity and eventually was convicted of second-
the Brady Bunch. His mom was a housewife who did volunteer degree murder and sentenced to thirteen and a half years in
work and ran the book club at Cottage Lake Elementary. Jon has prison.
a sister who is three years older than him and a brother who is After his father’s trial, Jon and his sister moved in with
six years older. Everyone in the neighborhood knew and liked Kathy and Don Robson, who became their temporary foster
the Dorenbos family. Jon was really into sports, and as a kid he parents. His brother was eighteen and chose not to go with them.
played baseball, basketball, soccer, and football. Jon and his sister were sent to therapy. The therapist decided to
On August 2, 1992, at the age of twelve, he was playing use experiential therapy and confront the entire situation head

40 M-U-M Magazine
on. As a part of the process, their therapist thought it would be Jon had a chance to work them out. He made Jon work for the
beneficial for them to view their mother’s autopsy photos. He secrets. More important, Jon picked up on Ken’s style of per-
went as far as getting a court order allowing the private viewing formance and learned at a very early age that magic was just
of the photos. Jon and his sister drove into Seattle with their a vehicle for communicating with people. This is the hallmark
therapist and were faced with the decision of whether or not of Jon’s performing style to this day. That’s not to say he didn’t
to view the photos. The therapist told them they didn’t have have other influences. Like many other budding magicians, he
to, but if they did, they would know the truth about what their would videotape magicians on TV and try to emulate them. He
father had done. During the trial it was revealed that his mother was uncomfortable speaking on stage, so he worked to music.
hadn’t been pushed down stairs; she was beaten to death by When he was thirteen, he performed Kevin James’s Floating
their father. Knowing this, Jon and his sister opened the folder Rose in a school show. He was initially perplexed when there
that contained the pictures. Afterwards, the therapist drove was no reaction at the end of the routine. He didn’t realize the
them out to Puget Sound and Jon stood on the edge of a cliff audience was just stunned by what they had seen. A few seconds
and screamed for forty-five minutes. Jon was actually asked later they burst into thunderous applause. That encouraged him
to testify against his father in court. He remembers telling the to work on another routine for the next year. He virtually copied
District Attorney that if it would help end the trial he would. Lance Burton’s Candle routine. He got a great reaction, but Ken
Their mother’s sister, Susan, fought for custody of Jon and told him that he couldn’t keep doing other people’s material or
his sister and they eventually moved in with her in Southern Cal- he wouldn’t grow as a performer. He had to come up with his
ifornia a year later. Jon had made the little league all-star team own routines.
before he moved to Southern California, so he quickly returned Jon got the message and began creating talking routines
to Woodinville to play baseball. He stayed with the coach’s for stand-up performances. At the same time, he started
family and it was there that he saw magic for the first time. doing strolling magic for an agency that Ken referred him to.
One of their neighbors was sixteen-year-old magician Michael Although he was only fifteen, he was a big kid and could easily
Groves. He did a show for Jon and performed coins across, a pass for eighteen or nineteen. He did magic for corporate clients
matrix routine, Roth’s Portable Hole, and a sponge ball routine. as well as private parties. One of the things that helped him get
Jon was blown away and thought it was the coolest thing he referrals was that he might be hired for one hour, but he’d stay
had ever experienced. Michael saw how happy the tricks made for three hours. All of this performing brought him to the real-
him and taught Jon a sponge ball routine. Impressed with how ization that you can never mess up. The audience doesn’t know
quickly he learned the routine, and seeing Jon’s excitement, he what ultimately is supposed to happen. It’s all about having fun
took him to a local magic shop in Seattle and bought him a copy with your magic and making people love it. As his mentor told
of Modern Coin Magic by J.B. Bobo. Jon studied every word, him, “Don’t become what you do; be who you are.” Ken Sands
and the more he studied, the more he fell in love with magic. owns a magic shop in Orange County and has continued to be
Jon’s aunt also saw how Jon loved magic and introduced him Jon’s biggest influence in magic and one of the biggest influ-
to the ex-boyfriend of one of her friends, a magician named Ken ences in his life.
Sands. Jon and Ken bonded quickly, developing a relationship While living in Seattle, and during all of this involvement
that went beyond mentoring: almost a father-son relationship. with magic, Jon was even more involved with sports, playing
Ken would show Jon magic, but not explain the methods until soccer, basketball, and baseball. He particularly excelled in

Performing the Floating Rose Dorenbos snapping a football

AUGUST 2011 41
 Performing Card to Mouth for the Cowboys
TE Jason Witten at Pro Bowl in Miami With Rascal Flatts on their tour bus

baseball. He was also a big Seattle Mariners fan. When he went over potential draft picks. Jon had a slight problem. He had had
to the games, he would hang out by the player’s entrance before surgery when he was a kid, and scar tissue continued to form in
and after the game. He was not an autograph seeker, but just his groin area. He started feeling pain. He actually had a double
liked watching the players drive in and out. One day, Mariner hernia, but due to the scar tissue, it was misdiagnosed. On Pro
right fielder Jay Buhner came up to talk to him. That gave him Day, he could barely move. He had been injecting the tendons
a thrill he would never forget. in his groin with cortisone, but it wasn’t healing the injury. He
When he moved to Southern California he continued to play got two more cortisone injections before his school’s Pro Day.
basketball and baseball. Once he hit high school, he played Although he was unable to even jog, Jon passed the lifting test
varsity baseball and football as a freshman. This was due not with ease, bench-pressing 225 pounds twenty times. But it was
only to his athletic abilities, but also his size. He was one of the forty-yard dash that he was dreading. As Jon lined up to
the biggest kids at his school, but at age sixteen he stopped run, the head scout yelled out, “Jon, you are not fast, nor will
growing, and all-of-sudden, he wasn’t the biggest kid anymore. you make it in this league because of your speed. All the scouts
In his senior year he still played both sports, but thought he want is to see you snap.” By some miracle he didn’t have to
might become a professional baseball player. run for the scouts. The Buffalo Bills signed Jon as a free agent
Upon graduation from high school, he entered Golden West in 2003. When asked what his second favorite magic trick is,
Junior College in Huntington Beach, California. He chose G.W. Jon replies, “Making it all the way to the NFL and never being
after talking with his high school coach, Bill Simpson, about timed in the forty-yard dash, the signature test of all players.”
pursuing football at the collegiate level. Simpson said, “Never He reported to Buffalo on the assigned day and checked
stop playing; go where you can play, and someone will spot into the hotel room they had reserved for him. Within a few
you.” Since Golden West had a 0-and-30 record, he knew he’d minutes, he got a phone call from Jim Kelly, the former Bills’
play right away there. Due to the low number of players on the quarterback, now a Hall of Famer. Kelly introduced himself and
team, he played multiple positions: quick side defensive end, told Jon that he had heard of his reputation as a magician. He
outside linebacker and fullback. He decided to transfer out after explained that he was hosting a charity event the next day and
his freshman year. asked if Jon would come out and do some strolling magic. Jon
A friend at the University of Texas at El Paso told him they nearly jumped out of his skin at the opportunity. The next day
were looking for a long snapper. Being that Jon wasn’t a long he was picked up at his hotel by a limousine. Kelly got out and
snapper, he had to get creative with the film that he sent UTEP. told him “how stoked” he was to meet him. When he got in, he
Jon had good speed; his buddy Nick Heinle was known for his saw that the other occupants were Dan Marino, Joe Montana,
hard hits, and Tim Thurman was the team’s six-foot-six tight end Drew Bledsoe, Bruce Smith, and Thurman Thomas. One of
and long snapper. Jon combined the highlights of him and Nick, them said, “The Magic Man is here. The party starts now!” Jon
added Tim’s long-snapping highlights, and made the ultimate thought he had died and gone to heaven. He was a hit; since that
highlight tape. He sent that tape to the University of Texas El function, he has been on the A-list of requested guests at many
Paso claiming it was all him; after watching it, they offered him other such functions.
a full scholarship to be their long snapper. Though he wasn’t During the draft, Sports Illustrated asked St. Louis Rams
a long snapper and only six feet tall, he quickly learned the coach Bobby April for his opinion of Jon. April said he
position and found he had a real knack for it. When people ask reminded him of their own snapper and made some sugges-
Jon what his favorite magic trick is, he replies, “Getting into tions of things Jon should work on. Coach April later joined the
UTEP.” Buffalo Bills and coached Jon his second season in the NFL. He
He played for UTEP for three years but was under the radar really learned the position as he went along. Even so, Jon feels
for most of those years. No one had really heard of him until he struggled for two years at Buffalo, partly because he never
right before the NFL draft. A friend who was already playing felt so cold in his life. During this time, he did get to hang out
in the NFL recommended him to his agent. The agent took with several prominent local magicians like Vic Trabucco, Dan
a look at Jon and liked what he saw. He had to participate in Block, Mike Gallo, and Paul Richards. He also met a man who
Pro Day: the day the team scouts go to all the schools to look would change the rest of his life, a motivational speaker named

42 M-U-M Magazine
 With Dean Dill With Sheets, Finney, and Bargatze at Kicks for Kids

Kevin Elko. tion gave Jon the edge. He got the job and has been playing in
Elko heard about Jon and his way with people. He ap- Philly since 2006. He made the Pro Bowl in 2010 and the Eagles
proached him in the Bills weight room and offered him $500 hired Bobby April before the 2011 season, reuniting the two
to talk for ten minutes at an engagement for a group of bankers once again.
that was happening at the facility forty-five minutes later. He It wasn’t long after Jon’s arrival in Philly that he met
asked him to tell his story and do one trick. When he finished S.A.M. PNP Mike Miller (who has a passing interest in sports)
he got a tremendous hand. Elko told him that he was in the at a sports show. They really hit it off and have become great
wrong business and offered to groom him to become a speaker. friends. Through Mike, Jon has gotten together with a number
When Jon received nearly a hundred letters from those bankers of other local magicians and occasionally attends local conven-
thanking him for telling them his story, he realized that Elko tions and events as his schedule allows. He has also spent time
might be right. The trick he did that day was Timothy Wenk’s with another Philly sports figure, Pat Croce, former owner of
Misled, the pencil through bill effect that he saw David Cop- the Philadelphia 76ers. Pat is a major magic enthusiast, Houdini
perfield perform on TV when he was a kid. Since then, he has collector, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker. One of Jon’s
performed that piece in every talk he has given. Elko groomed favorite memories is sitting in Houdini’s desk chair, reading
him to become an accomplished speaker and continues to work Houdini’s personal scrapbook at Pat’s house.
with him. In all of his time in the NFL, Jon constantly did magic in the
Jon was released by Buffalo after two years. He considered locker rooms and hotel lobbies wherever he went. He became
leaving football, and went back to California. He talked with known as The Magic Man of the NFL. His magical exploits
some friends, who convinced him that he should go into the have been featured on a number of sports related TV shows,
film industry with them. He was about to do that when he got and he is very popular among his own team’s players as well as
a call from his agent; the Tennessee Titans’ long snapper was visiting opponents. He became a regular on a show called Inside
injured. At this time, Jon had missed half of the 2005 season. the Eagles. On this show he interacts with players in the locker
Could he get on a plane and be ready to play on Sunday? He room, talking, doing magic, or playing locker room baseball
caught a jet late that night. The first he saw of his teammates and golf. They even visited The Magic Castle on one episode.
was in the locker room that Sunday. He also met Jeff Fisher, the Jon won the Mid-Atlantic Emmy for hosting.
head coach, whom he immediately took a liking to. He loved Jon has continued to be very involved with a number of
playing for Fisher. He also loved the ambiance of the town. charities. He participates in Garth Brooks’s Teammates for
Music stars Rascal Flatts and Dierks Bentley became friends, Kids annual event, The Moyer Foundation, and David Akers’s
and he became more involved with Garth Brooks’s Teammates Kicks for Kids. David Akers is the placekicker for the Eagles;
for Kids Foundation. Garth said Jon is one of, if not the best, he started a charity focused on children, after his own daughter
card magician he’s ever seen. Anytime Jon meets up with needed extensive surgery at Children’s Hospital of Philadel-
Rascal Flatts the first thing they want is a trick. phia. Teaming up with Mike Miller, they organized a fundrais-
The Titans released Jon after the ‘05 season. He didn’t get ing event, An Evening of Comedy and Magic, to benefit this
picked up by another team, so Jon spent more time speaking to worthy organization. For the last two years, these have been
companies and performing at charity events. Eight weeks into mounted in major performance venues in the city and have
the 2006 season he got another call from the Titans. The same featured performers like Michael Finney, Stephen Bargatze,
snapper got injured again. He flew in and played with the team Bob Sheets, John Cassidy, Denny Haney, and others.
for two weeks, but was released when the snapper returned. Jon said that meeting his wife, Julie, is the best thing that
He then got a call from the Philadelphia Eagles. Their snapper, ever happened to him. Their meeting came as a result of his
Mike Bartram, broke his neck. One of Jon’s old coaches had relationship with Kevin Elko. Elko booked him to speak at a
given Eagles head coach Andy Reid a big break early in his corporate function for ING. Julie was in the crowd; afterward
career. When he heard about Bartram, he called Reid and told she told her mother what a great speaker he was. Her mother
him Jon Dorenbos was his man. Jon had to compete against two encouraged her to contact Jon via email. She did and he replied
other players for the position, but his old coach’s recommenda- quickly. He asked her if she was spontaneous; she said yes. He

AUGUST 2011 43
 asked her to dinner. She said yes. Then Jon explained that he focus on the people, making them excited participants in the
was in California. She still said yes, but not yet. They emailed magic.
back and forth, and then started talking on the phone, frequent- He also does a lot of motivational speaking. He talks about
ly, and for long periods of time. Finally, they started dating and his life and all of the challenges he overcame to get to where he
yes, Julie did fly to California to have dinner with Jon. Julie has is today. When asked what he hopes people take from his talks,
a degree in finance and is currently forming her own company. Jon replied, “Clear your head of all the negative thoughts and
Having met Julie on a few occasions, I can tell you that she and remove the cluttered. Believe in the ‘magic of vision.’ The only
Jon are ideally suited for each other. They married last year and person who can stop you is you.” He uses the magic to gain
currently split their time between residences in California and and hold the attention of the audience, keeping them involved.
Philadelphia. Jon travels to California frequently; he is working He often speaks at corporate events for major Fortune 500
with a major television production firm developing new shows. companies, but he frequently speaks at high schools all over
So what kind of magic does Jon perform today? He performs the country.
on the corporate circuit and at charity events; he performs It took a number of years for him to develop his performance
strolling magic and stand-up magic. When you see Jon perform, character, but at this point he can look at an effect and know
you will see a high energy individual who gets people involved whether or not it will “work” for him. His show packs into a
and excited about magic. He is instantly likeable and bigger backpack and can play in a room for twenty people or an arena
than life, but very friendly. He doesn’t set himself out to be “the full of people. Jon said that the expectations an audience has for
performer,” but more of the kind of guy you just want to hang an athlete doing a presentation tend to be “not the highest, so
out and have a beer with. He can just as easily relate to a roomful if you are decent, you will be very well received. If you really
of CEOs or to a street gang. Jon says that he never wanted magic know what you’re doing, you’ll get standing ovations.” Jon gets
to be a fulltime job. He sees magic as a way to develop relation- standing ovations. This has also allowed him to loosen up as a
ships with people, either individually or in crowds. He usually presenter. He comes across as a corporate performer who isn’t
doesn’t put messages into his effects, but uses magic to grab the corporate – no PowerPoint presentation and no shirt and tie. If
attention of audiences. It evens the playing field and makes him he is asked to wear a tie for an engagement, he starts his show
approachable. It is this approachability that makes people take with a trick he calls “the disappearing tie.”
what he says to heart. Jon has always viewed magic as an outlet; Jon says that he can’t write comedy. His comedy is based on
he sees magic as being symbolic of life. situations that arise when working with the audience and the
His close-up work is focused on card magic that is very material that they feed him. He depends on their actions and
direct. He has excellent technical skills and is really “in the reactions to create his humor. He is not one to come out and do
moment” when he performs. He incorporates a lot of jazzing a few self-working effects. His standard opener is the Tabary
in his work, taking advantage of situations as they arise. He rope routine, which he presents in a very comedic manner.
learned several techniques to get out of any situation. These It is obvious that he doesn’t take himself seriously, but he
tools include a very good second deal, a side steal, and a top establishes great chops quickly. He usually performs Martin
change. The only gaffed deck he has ever used is an Invisible Lewis’s Cardiographic, the linking finger rings, and his own
Deck. He prefers to do magic with a normal deck of cards so version of Scott Alexander’s Shattered. He will take advantage
he can perform any of his effects anytime, with anyone’s deck. of video projection and present Misled and Bill Malone’s
However, the magic is really secondary, because he prefers to handling of Sam the Bellhop. He will also incorporate some

With his wife Julie With Julie at Lincoln Financial field

44 M-U-M Magazine
“special” effects for certain occasions. On the last Kicks for with in Buffalo. It didn’t matter who I was, but to those kids I
Kids show, Jon performed Bobby Motta’s Lethal and his own was Drew Bledsoe. Everybody is a hero, but you never know to
routine for Postcards from Home to close the show. whom, so you always have to be it. Opportunities will come.
The messages Jon delivers are what make him stand out Doors will open. Your influence is way more powerful than you
as a speaker. Here are a few things that Jon said during our know. You can be that guy. People need you to be that guy. With
interview that I thought were really worth quoting verbatim: great respect comes great responsibility.
“My first game in Buffalo, I got out of my car and the “When I speak at high schools, I tell my story to say ‘here
crowd started cheering. I was so pumped that I ‘threw up the is who I am.’ I want to be a great father some day. I want to be
deuce.’ Then I realized that Drew Bledsoe was driving by and a great husband and a great friend. I view what happened to my
waving to the crowd. The guard said, ‘That’s not for you,’ and family as a textbook of what not to do in life and that has given
I said, ‘Thanks, dude.’ But there was one kid I noticed against me a great head start. Every day, we have a choice. Do you
a barricade. That same kid was there in the same spot after want to make the sacrifices necessary to attain what you want
the game, so I went over to talk to him. That was like my life in life? Be someone people can count on. When you look in the
flashing in front of me. In my mind I was Jay Buhner. He didn’t mirror, know that you can count on yourself. Don’t be afraid to
care who I was; I was a Buffalo Bill. It wasn’t until later that I be on teams. Make yourself so valuable that when you are gone,
found out that he was terminally ill. people will mourn. They will remember you forever and your
“The only thing I learned in high school AP European contributions to helping them achieve their goals.
history class came from a movie our teacher showed us. It was “The best advice I ever got was in my freshman year of
Swing Time, starring Fred Astaire. In that movie, he sang a college from Coach Rowe. He said, ‘This game is not about
song called ‘Pick Yourself Up.’ It had such great lyrics and the winning. It never was; it never will be. The reason you play this
chorus became a motto for my life: ‘Pick yourself up, dust game is for the respect of your opponent, the respect of your
yourself off, and start all over again.’ peers.’ This is so true; and the same goes for ‘the game’ of life
“I think everyone is a legend. I looked up to Drew Bledsoe as well.”
when I was a kid. When I signed with Buffalo his locker was There are some great pieces of advice there; some things
three down from mine. When we were in there, all he wanted that make you think about how you and your talents can really
to do was to watch me do magic. One day he came up to me impact people in many walks of life. It was a tough road for
and told me he vaguely remembered my father’s trial. He said, Jon, but he has landed in a great place. He’s a caring person
‘Whatever you need, you come to me. I’ve got your back.’ He who generates excitement wherever he goes. He is a great
became my hero. Not long after that, I saw how I had become a spokesman for football, for magic, and for life. 
hero in the eyes of some terminally ill kids that I had spent time

AUGUST 2011 45
 over How don’t do it!
by Joshua Jay

I even discovered certain words that affected the impact

Do I Handle of my magic. Particularly with kids, there are certain words
that suggest a harsh or negative emotion; they aren’t “bad”
Hecklers? words but they sound bad. Even if you’re describing a prop
or action, you should substitute “stupid,” “dumb,” and “ugly”
“You can’t please all of the people all of the time, and last night for words like “silly” or “crazy.”
all those people were at my show.” – Mitch Hedberg I’m not suggesting you don’t tell dirty jokes or use four-
letter words – it wasn’t so long ago that I was fifteen years
Being young makes you more susceptible to hecklers. old. But I am suggesting you reserve that material for the
Obnoxious people are less intimidated by a young magician locker room, and keep it clean onstage.
because they can’t separate your skill level from your age.
“She’s young and she’s doing magic; she can’t be very Egos?
good.”
But when a magician asks me how I handle hecklers, my Magic is about managing egos – yours, your audience’s
first reaction is to tell that magician that it’s not the right – and how both your ego and your audience’s egos are
question. Even as a young magician, if people are interrupt- affected by your magic. I’m not speaking exclusively about
ing the flow of your show on a regular basis, it is likely due to your getting a big head (though let’s not go that route). I’m
something you are doing. Let’s see if we can pinpoint some talking about the larger problem that results from being
“don’ts” to help eliminate those pesky hecklers. young and good, which is this: people will project a big ego
Don’t be rude to your audience or perform tricks where onto you.
you challenge spectators. Comments like “You’re not paying Whether from a group of jealous friends or older
attention,” or “Wrong, the ball is under this cup,” or “See if you magicians, the very sight of you doing magic (and doing it
can catch me on this one,” are lines I hope will die out with the artfully) at a young age is threatening to sensitive egos. And
old magicians who use them. since magic requires more than a little self-confidence in
Don’t perform in situations where your audience doesn’t both the way you present your effects and yourself, this is
want to see you. If someone asks to see an effect over dinner easily misinterpreted as cocky.
but it’s clear that everyone else at the table couldn’t care less, What can we do to curb this bitter jealousy? Not much.
then save the trick for another time. The only ego you have control over is your own. So, be extra
Don’t encourage negative feedback. Hecklers feed on polite during your shows, don’t show off, and stay far away
the attention you give them, so don’t give them any. from material that challenges the audience.
You’ll still hear things and get the occasional hostile
comment, but here’s a secret you can take comfort in: all
Where is the Line? that jealousy is about how good you are. It’s a compliment in
disguise! Just don’t let that go to your head.
We’ve talked about how important it is for your magic to
reflect your life. And it’s critical that you be yourself onstage.
It’s a natural outgrowth, then, to push the boundaries David Oliver on
of what you can get away with. And since dating is on
your mind and the f-bomb is on the tip of your tongue, it’s Watching Magic Shows
tempting to do off-color magic. Resist this temptation.
I remember seeing the Amazing Johnathan slay an Never sit in an audience shuffling, or practicing with a
audience with dirty magic; every time he said a four-letter deck of cards (or any other prop). And don’t whisper during
word, the crowd cheered. Johnathan is a comedic genius, the show to explain your thoughts on methods, routining,
to be sure, but I had to realize that I wasn’t the Amazing etc. Talk after the show or at home where there’s no chance of
Johnathan, and I don’t perform in a Las Vegas Lounge. non-magicians hearing you and learning any magic secrets.
Suggestive material is offensive when it comes from Also, don’t forget to act just like every other audience
a younger performer. Some people like crude humor, member. Don’t take notes during a performance and defi-
but nobody wants to hear it from a minor. Here’s the rule: nitely applaud, laugh, and smile. Never try to force the
if the trick would get you into trouble at the dinner table, magician to pick you as a volunteer over a non-magician

46 M-U-M Magazine
An Inside Guide for Young Magicians and their Parents

audience member. It’s better for the magician to have an events with him. If your child is female, be cautious; remember
unsuspecting volunteer, rather than someone like you, who that magic conventions are hundreds and hundreds of guys
may not react to the surprises. Sit in the back, relax, and watch who do card tricks. They’re nice guys, but still…
how the magician handles “real people” and learn from it. Conventions typically provide a spousal rate for
Respect his or her experience. non-magicians and many even have youth rates. Check your
To meet the magician, wait until the show is finished, and all local conventions for details.
of the other audience members have left. Don’t assume that it’s Magic conventions – particularly your first – are memories
okay to go backstage without permission. Be careful how you magicians cherish forever. My mom and I went to Las Vegas when
introduce yourself. Wait off to the side, away from any ongoing I was young, and everything about that trip was an adventure;
conversation. When the magician is not busy, approach and I look back on it as one of my fondest memories with her.
introduce yourself. Ask if they have time for a conversation and
say that you are someone who’s learning to be a magician. Tech-
nically, you are still a “magician in training,” because there are Would My Child
no “Professional Magicians” at your age (sorry egos). Remember,
respect equals respect. Like Magic Camp?
Almost certainly. Magic camp is a week where campers
Are there practice, perform, eat, live, and breathe magic. There are several
magic camps across the United States, but two reputable
organizations organizations lead the pack. Each camp is one week in duration
and offers just one session each summer.
that can help? There are lots of concerns for parents sending young kids
to another state alone, often by plane. These concerns are le-
Yes, there are two large magic fraternities: The Society of gitimate. Don’t make any decisions until you talk to the camp
American Magicians and the International Brotherhood of directors. They’ll provide information on airport pickup, safety,
Magicians. These organizations have clubs that meet in cities all diet or medical restrictions. I know the directors at both camps
over the world. You’ll have to look into which group meets in personally, and I’m sure each of them would be willing to talk
your area. to you.
The real value in these organizations is the face-to-face
contact your child will get with other local magicians. There is Tannen’s Magic Camp
no substitute for personal instruction, and once a month your
child will have a chance to perform and watch others perform. When I was younger, there was really only one magic camp:
Local clubs sponsor lectures, fundraisers, charity events, and Tannen’s. I attended two consecutive summers and I reflect back
banquets. Clubs are an excellent connection for shows and on those two weeks as seminal in my magical development. Now
a good networking opportunity. If your child is serious about in its thirty-fifth year, Tannen’s offers in-depth classes taught by
magic, he or she needs to be involved on a local level. capable instructors.
The camp takes place at a beautiful college campus outside
Philadelphia. There are dorm-style sleeping arrangements, the
My Child Wants to Go food is served in a cafeteria, and the classes are taught in real
classrooms.
to a Magic Convention. Campers take morning classes based on ability (beginner,
intermediate, and advanced). There are elective courses taught
Should I Let Him in the afternoon on subjects like cards, stage manipulation,
linking rings, and ballooning. There are shows every evening
Miss School? and stage and close-up competitions with trophy prizes.
Because of its close proximity to New York City, the
That’s your call, but my parents allowed me. My grades were counselors and instructors are made up of the best, busiest
good and I was serious about magic; other kids missed school pros in the business. David Blaine attended as a child and David
for their interests (sports tournaments, family vacations), and by Copperfield showed up unannounced a few years ago.
comparison a magic convention doesn’t seem so unreasonable. The classes at Tannen’s are intense and the week is spent
Magic conventions are clinics on magic, where your child almost exclusively indoors.
will see, learn, compete, and buy magic. But conventions are
also social affairs, and he or she is sure to make friends and get Sorcerer’s Summer Safari
priceless hands-on instruction. If your child is under eighteen,
plan to go with him; if he is under fourteen, plan to attend all Imagine a magic clinic in a real camp setting: this is Sorcerer’s

AUGUST 2011 47
UNDER OVER By Joshua Jay
Summer Safari.
This camp was formed ten years ago, long after I was eligible Mike Segal on Sorcerer’s
to attend as a camper. However, I was invited to be the guest of
honor in 2002 and I have returned several times in subsequent Summer Safari
years. I have a good feel for this camp, as well.
This camp is set two and a half hours north of Toronto, Magic Mike Segal runs Sorcerer’s Summer Safari and has
Ontario, Canada, at Camp White Pines (where they filmed mentored numerous young magicians. He’s also a busy profes-
Meatballs). The venue is an actual campground, complete with sional in the Toronto area. And he’s the perfect person to help
forest, cabins, and a private lake; the scenery is beautiful. define what sets magic camp apart.
The “feel” of this camp is much more traditional. In addition What does magic camp offer that a convention doesn’t?
to magic courses, electives, tutorials, and shows, Sorcerer’s Magic Mike: When Sorcerers Safari started, I honestly didn’t
Summer Safari offers campers free time for swimming, hiking, know what the differences would be. In the ten years we have
playing volleyball or basketball, or jumping on the trampoline. been running I have discovered many unique features.
The instructors at this camp are particularly good with Interaction is a huge part of the camp experience. The coun-
children and provide excellent teaching for both the beginner selors and magic personalities are not hired to do a show and
and advanced student. then spend the rest of the time in their room. Camp is a social
The instructor to camper ratio here is best, and many campers affair, and each camper gets many opportunities to eat, jam, and
graduate into a “Counselor in Training” program, returning the perform with the magicians they read about or watch on DVDs.
following year as staff. Throughout the week, each camper All meals, cabin activities, swimming, etc. are done together, as
receives lots of personal instruction and help. The electives a full camp. No one at camp is passive, and we pull together,
are more specific here, offering workshops on individual tricks campers and staff alike, to make it work.
like Zombie or Linking Rings (I taught one on Ambitious Card). Camp is longer than a convention, and that gives kids
Star power at Sorcerer’s Safari is also strong: last year two of the and their counselors a chance to form close bonds. Lifelong
biggest names in magic headlined. connections are made, and we’re proud to spark friendships
The sense of community is strong at this camp, and among campers that carry over long after camp is over.
founders Mike and Jen Segal also offer a spring break reunion. And, it goes without saying that the camp is an intensive
They have an email list that provides year-round pictures magic training clinic. We all work together to make the next
and updates. generation appreciate and add to the art of magic. 

48 M-U-M Magazine
 Club of Wisconsin and the convention coming to Oshkosh
The Houdini Award can be found in the Oshkosh Northwestern. Headlines
included Girl to Lose Her Head at Convention and Creator
By Julie Sobanski of Famed Charlie McCarthy is at Convention Here. (This
referred to Chicago’s Frank Marshall, the man who created

M agic clubs have come and gone, but not many have
endured year after year. The Houdini Club of Wisconsin
will be celebrating its seventy-third annual convention this year
the famous ventriloquist dummy used by Edgar Bergen.) The
funny article stated, “Frank was the one who carved Charlie
McCarthy out of a hunk of wood.” Another newsworthy article
in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on Labor Day weekend, September mentioned with the bold headline, Magician Dies at Conven-
2-4, 2011. It’s a convention that, throughout the years, has tion. While it seems like impressive news, it’s not exactly what
attracted many of the greatest magicians of our time. happened. Michael Lauersen, fifty-five, of Kenosha, became
The beginnings of the club can be traced back to 1915 and ill at the banquet and was taken to the hospital, where he had
Oshkosh. For many years, magicians in Wisconsin had talked a cerebral hemorrhage and died the next day. The report notes
about organizing a statewide club dedicated to magic. Five that those around him were unaware of his illness.
magicians started the Houdini Club, named to honor that great
native son of Wisconsin, Harry Houdini. The name “Houdini
Club” is not original, because many other towns, including
Minneapolis, Philadelphia, and others cities, also had that
name. The Wisconsin meetings were informal, and the mem-
bership small. The club flourished for several years, but soon
fell to the wayside. In 1928, two magicians tried to resurrect
the group, but this club also fizzled within a few years from
lack of interest and support.

Ben Bergor

Program of the first Houdini trophy

M.F. Zens, Dr. R.C. Finkle, Frank W. Carter, and Joe Walter
built on the failed clubs to form the new Houdini Club of
Wisconsin. It was organized on May 28, 1938, with Joe Walter Art, Ben, and Bess
as president, M.F. Zens as vice-president, Frank W. Carter as
secretary, and Dr. R.C. Finkle as treasurer. At first, the club The growing membership and the success of the first
only accepted membership from residents of Wisconsin, convention had the club hosting another statewide magic
Chicago, and Upper Michigan, but soon the by-laws were gathering the next year. Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, was picked
amended to take in any eligible magician anywhere in the to host the third convention in 1940. The membership swelled
U.S.A. The timing must have been right because the member- to over two hundred, and a contest of escape acts was added.
ship swelled to a record fifty members. The four men built On February 8, 1940, Bess Houdini presented to the Houdini
upon the success of the club and organized Wisconsin’s first Club of Wisconsin a beautiful hand-tooled, engraved-leather
magic convention, which took place in Oshkosh in 1938. traveling trophy. It was designed by Edward Saint, the founder
Quite a bit of newspaper press mentioning the Houdini of National Magic Day. It was a bound photo book that

50 M-U-M Magazine
 included photos of Houdini and a letter personally written to
the club by Bess.
Bess expressed her deep affection and high regard for
the magic organization named for her late husband, Harry
Houdini. This award was not as unique as it might sound. Bess
donated many “Houdini Awards” to other Houdini Clubs.
Both Bess and Harry’s brother Hardeen were made honorary
members of the club. It was decided by the membership that
the trophy would be awarded for one year to the member pre-
senting the best escape act. Bess stipulated that if it should be
won by a contestant three times, it would become his property.
The inaugural event was held in the afternoon, outside
at the Taylor Park band shell. The conventioneers as well as
the public were invited to attend this free show. The judges
were the Fond du Lac city commissioner, the chief of police,
the sheriff, the circuit court judge, and a reporter from the
newspaper. The participants in the contest were Art “Suicide”
Hanson of Green Bay, who did a chain escape; Ann Mahendra,
wife of Doc Mahendra, who did an upside-down straitjacket Bergor and Alvina
escape while suspended from a cable; and Ben Bergor and his
wife Alvina from Madison, who did a combination trunk and
straitjacket substitution. After much deliberation, Ben Bergor find Bergor tightly strapped in the straitjacket.
was declared the winner. The pages of the trophy were leather, The judges were unanimous and voted Bergor the thrice
and the words “1940 – Bergor’s Original Combination Trunk winner. The leather page of the Houdini Trophy says, “1942 –
and Straitjacket Escape and Substitution” were embossed in By virtue of being adjudged to have the greatest escape act in
gold letters. three consecutive open free-for-all contests, Ben Bergor has
The fourth convention was held in Appleton, Wisconsin, won permanent possession of the Houdini Trophy.”
in 1941; the big draw was the attendance of Bess Houdini and Ben continued to be quite active with the Houdini Club
her business manager, Dr. Edward Saint. The escape contest of Wisconsin; he was made an honorary life member. Right
was won for the second consecutive year by Ben Bergor. The before his death in 1981, Ben donated a new trophy to the
leather page of the trophy read, “1941 – Bergor’s Improved club, the Ben Bergor Escape Trophy. It would be awarded to a
Original Combination Trunk and Straitjacket Escape and member who competed and won the Escape Contest.
Substitution.” The presentation was made in person by Mrs. The leather bound trophy that Ben cherished stayed in his
Houdini. possession until his death in 1981. His family later donated it
1942 brought the convention to Whitewater. Two con- and other artifacts to the Wisconsin Historical Society, where
testants vied for the Houdini Trophy: Art “Suicide” Hanson it resides and (upon special request in Madison) is available
and Ben Bergor. The judges were the mayor of Whitewater, to view by historians. The escape trunk, a guillotine, and
the chief of police, and the county sheriff. Hanson presented a signboard of Ben’s show are on display in the Wisconsin
a torture belt effect. It took four-and-a-half minutes to chain Historical Museum in an exhibit called “Odd Wisconsin.” 
and rope him, but less than two minutes for him to make his
escape. Bergor improved upon his trick of previous years by For more information about the Houdini Club convention
having his wife Alvina tightly strapped in a straitjacket and visit our Web site at www.houdiniclubofwisconsin.com.
then placed in a trunk that was securely locked and roped.
Bergor stood on the top of the trunk and held up a curtain [A special thank you to Dr. Richard O. Mossey, Ellie Bergor, the
covering the trunk and himself. On the count of two, Alvina Houdini Club of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Historical Society, and
appeared standing on top of the trunk and immediately the Conjuring Arts Research Center for research assistance.]
dropped the curtain. The trunk was un-roped and unlocked to

AUGUST 2011 51
 Lucille Pierce
ed young magicians was Lucille Saxon. She was a talented
magician, puppeteer, and manager of the Philadelphia branch of
Holden’s Magic Company. The group she formed and supported
was appropriately named, “The Sorcerer’s Apprentices.”

and the Sorcerer’s Saxon was born Lucille Pierce in Boston, and graduated from
Briar Cliff College and Columbia University with a major in
chemistry. After graduation, she gave up scientific pursuits and

Apprentices in 1928 joined up as an assistant for Harry Blackstone Sr. She

was married to another Blackstone cast member, Frank Luckner,
who served as prop master and onstage assistant for the show.
During their time with the show, Lucille and Frank had three
By Tom Ewing children, Todd, Pamela, and Judy; they divorced in 1935.
Frank continued on with Blackstone until 1939, when he married
another cast member, Bernadotta “Bunny” Smith, who was the
levitated “Princess Karnac,” and left to pursue his own magic
career. Lucille had already struck out on her own. Their children
eventually went to
live with Luckner’s
parents in Corning,
New York. In 1943,
Lucille landed the job
managing Holden’s
Magic Shop in Phila-
delphia, a position she
held until just after
World War II.
Perhaps it was
the fresh supply of
youngsters hanging
around the Holden’s
shop at 117 South
Broad Street, or
maybe she missed
her children, but
regardless, she
soon founded the
Sorcerer’s Appren-
tices. The club was
created for aspiring
young magicians Holden’s Catalog
Digital Photo Restoration by Gene Voshell fourteen to eighteen,
ages at which they

A
were too young to join the local S.A.M. or I.B.M. clubs. Of
course, there were also exclusive adult groups in the city
s all fraternal magic organizations know, like The Houdini Club and The Yogi Club, but again, not for
a promising future depends on the ability youngsters.
to attract and retain young people to the Not surprisingly, members of her club benefited greatly from
hobby. Currently, the S.A.M.’s Society her operation of Holden’s and her connections in magic. The
of Young Magicians (S.Y.M.) is a shining group initially met at the Y.M.C.A. at Broad and Arch Streets in
example. downtown Philadelphia, and later at the Sylvania Hotel, across
Over the years, there have been many efforts aimed at helping the street from her shop. In its later years it met in an office
young people develop in the art; several have arisen from magic building on Arch Street. The club was open to all interested
shop owners. Take for example the personalized approach of youngsters, but the first demand she made of her students was
Baltimore magic shop owner Phil Thomas, who offered person- commitment. Members could miss a meeting for personal or
alized tips, suggestions, thoughts, and guidance in lengthy cor- emergency reasons, but miss two in a row and they were out.
respondence he conducted with budding magicians. While other clubs for young magicians focused on learning
In the Midwest in the early 1930s there was Vernon Lux, and swapping tricks, Saxon also offered her members well-
first president and founder of the International Society of Junior grounded instruction on such things as making a nice appear-
Magicians. Some of the young magicians he helped develop ance, interacting with and managing your audience, getting
and who later became famous in the magic world include Harry applause, and the art of stage presentation. Magic tricks were
Riser, Jimmy Grippo, and Neil Foster. Later clubs included the certainly taught and learned, but Saxon believed performing
American Magical Society, Lads of Legerdemain, Magic Youths magic required the development of well-rounded entertainers.
International, Young Magicians of America, and others. She was also connected with the stars of magic and personal
In the 1940s in Philadelphia, the person who shepherd- friends with Dell O’Dell, Jack Gwynne, Tommy Windsor, Al

52 M-U-M Magazine
 cut with both hands at the same time. During World War II she
performed for wounded soldiers in area hospitals. She was an
accomplished artist and puppeteer and designed outfits for her
characters. Lucille also appeared frequently on the local annual
I.B.M. and S.A.M. stage shows and throughout the 1940s served
as secretary of both local chapters.
In September 1944, Saxon appeared at the annual Abbott’s
Get-Together. The Sphinx carried a review of the show and
featured a photo of Saxon on stage. Always with a sense
of humor, she used to advertise herself by distributing a
promotional
giveaway in the
form of a small
manual titled,
“What Men Know
about Women.”
Upon opening it,
the reader discov-
ered it was filled
Holden’s Magic Shop 1944 with blank pages.
She also married
a local magician
Baker, John Mulholland, and many others. When these enter- named Rudy Saxon
tainers came to town, they frequently stopped in Holden’s to who, in addition to
visit Lucille; since many of them were performing nightclub doing regular magic
shows, they took the opportunity of attending early evening and ambidextrous
meetings of the Sorcerer’s Apprentices. It was for this reason writing on a large
that the young men had the opportunity to meet Senor Mardo, chalk board, went
Cantu, and others. on to become one of
Each year the Sorcerer’s Apprentices presented an annual the nation’s leading
show at the New Century Club, an exclusive women’s organiza- Jim Killip mentalists in the
tion at 1520 Chestnut Street. The organization formed shortly 1950s and 1960s.
after the close of Philadelphia’s 1876 Centennial Exposition and Saxon had also been
served as a place where women could meet, socialize, have guest an assistant on the Blackstone Sr. show during the same time
speakers and entertainers, and learn. They also had an elegant Lucille was on the show. She also kept in frequent touch with
stage in the drawing room of their mansion. her children, especially her youngest, Judy, to whom she sent
During the fourth annual show in 1949, member Jacob detailed letters emblazoned with hand-drawn fairies and prin-
Needleman recalls that the elegant stage almost burned down cesses and fanciful artwork. Judy still treasures a sketch book of
when member David Ross magically produced a bowl of fire that doll clothing designs her mother drew.
set the curtains ablaze. Club members formed a bucket brigade Although she left Holden’s in 1945, Lucille continued to
that doused both the fire and the first few rows of the audience. operate her Sorcerer’s Apprentices group; the April 1946 Linking
Needleman, a noted author and professor of philosophy at Ring mentions that she and her boys attended the third annual
San Francisco State University, wrote a fictional novel based picnic of the Allentown Society of Magicians/Ring 32 at Dorney
on the club called Sorcerers. Many of the characters are loosely Park.
based on members of the club, including Lucille, who, in the Eventually Lucille left Philadelphia and returned to Corning,
novel, is the “enigmatic and beautiful Irene Angel,” a mentor of New York, where she became increasingly ill. A lifetime smoker,
the young magicians. Needleman never met Lucille, but he still she succumbed to lung cancer and died on November 10, 1948.
recalls a beautiful professional portrait of her doing the linking Magic publications of the time carried her obituary and mourned
rings that hung on the wall of Holden’s Magic Shop. the loss of a talented magician and mentor.
Other members of the club included at one time: Walt Hudson Today, the care and development of young magicians in the
the noted magician, sideshow authority and author Rod Ware, Philadelphia area lies with Arlen Solomon and the leaders of Bob
Henry Perkinson, Dave Rosenbaum, Don Mechlin, Chuck Sovel, Little S.Y.M. Assembly 96. Begun in November 1991, the club
Jack Key, George Copes, Howard Rice, Paul Voight, Billy Bishop, currently boasts twenty-five members and over the years has in-
Dick Hagy, Ben Brenner, and Bill Yeager, who billed himself as troduced magic to more than 150 youngsters and their parents.
“Pep Williams.” Williams was a designer for Westinghouse and They have also been assisted by members of Assembly 4, who
served as treasurer of Assembly 4 in the mid 1940s. have generously volunteered, lectured, and donated magazines,
Over the years some thirty different boys were members of books, and props for these budding magicians.
the club. Her compatriot in running the club was a local magician Although few of Lucille’s students remain today, those who
named Jim Kilip, who performed in Chinese costume and billed do recall a warm and wonderful woman who cared deeply for
himself as Chang Kuo Lao. Kilip used magic to promote health both the young magicians she trained and the art of magic. At
and good nutrition in Philadelphia public schools. a time when magic clubs were exclusive, hers was inclusive.
When not helping young magicians develop, Lucille appeared No doubt, when she looked in the bright eyes of her students,
both locally and nationally as an accomplished sleight-of-hand she saw the future of magic. So do we today at every S.Y.M.
artist, being one of the few persons who could execute a triple meeting. 

AUGUST 2011 53
 James shares an entertaining tale from the performing lives of professional magicians.
These stories illustrate various tricky situations that working pros have found
themselves in and how they handled them.

kid is living in the inner city, in the suburbs, or in a royal palace,

he or she will have the same Turley experience. In most ways,
however, the lives of the privileged bear no resemblance to
those most of us lead. Turley remembers once performing for
three children who were outnumbered by bodyguards five to
one. An entire hotel floor had been rented out for their stay. He
had no information about the family, but the person who booked
him for the show later informed him that the kids were Osama
bin Laden’s grandchildren. This was in 1993, long before bin
Laden became the most infamous household name in the U.S.
The booker also related to Turley how the children were taken
to Toys “R” Us for a shopping spree like no other. The store was
closed for their privacy and they were given free rein to buy
whatever they desired. As the entourage left the store, one of the
children saw a homeless man nearby. He asked his bodyguard
if he could give the man some money. The bodyguard said he
could. The child went over to the homeless man and gave him
$800 in cash.
One day, Turley received a call from a concierge at a luxury
hotel who asked if he could come down and put on a show
for some special guests. There would be approximately half a
dozen children. Turley agreed and turned up at the hotel. As
usual, he had no advance notice of whom the audience would
be. He knew they were extremely wealthy because they had
rented out the entire hotel floor. When Turley was shown into
The inimitable Turley the Magician! the room, he saw that there were indeed six children of varying
ages. There were also several adults milling around.
When Washington, D.C.’s Turley the Magician is not enter- “There were four people who appeared to be nannies. Two
taining audiences, he enjoys reading philosophy and exploring of them were holding infants in their arms. The other two were
the meaning of truth. A student of Aristotle and Aquinas, he watching the older kids. There was one guy who looked like
admits that he is not a fan of popular culture; he steers clear security. There was a man sitting on the floor with the children.
of the celebrity-obsessed tabloid media. Turley is erudite and I thought he must be the father. Then there was a woman with a
thoughtful, with no interest in the superficial. As you will read camera taking photos whom I assumed was the mother.”
in a moment, he was the perfect man for the job. As Turley began performing, he had to adapt his show to the
“I have an arrangement with concierges at several major small space of the hotel room, performing routines on the floor
hotels around town,” Turley explains. “If a hotel has a VIP with the kids when necessary. The children responded with
guest who requires a children’s entertainer, I get a call. There’s laughs and delight, as did the father. Throughout the act, the
an unspoken understanding that I never ask who the guest is, camerawoman kept snapping away.
and they almost never tell me.” When Turley performs at kids’ parties, the birthday child
Turley is an egalitarian. He offers the same great show at receives a number of gifts, including a handmade cape identical
the same price no matter who the audience is. The rich and to the one he wears, along with a top hat and funny round
famous receive no different treatment from him. Whether the glasses, all of which transform the child into a mini-Turley. In

54 M-U-M Magazine
this case, he had brought a cape for each child. After the
show ended, the kids scrambled into their Turley wear. The
father, too, insisted on his own gear, donning the top hat and
glasses and posing for pictures along with the kids and the
magician. Turley had also brought along copies of Woodrow
the White House Mouse, a children’s book that features a
character based on him
performing at a White
House party.
None of the people in
the room were familiar
to Turley. Nothing about
the circumstances or the
faces rang a bell. What
he did know was that
his audience enjoyed
the show thoroughly
and had a fun afternoon.
Mission accomplished.
When he arrived
back home, Turley’s
wife Makiko was
naturally curious about
the mystery guests. “So
who were they?” she
Turley in Woodrow the White asked.
House Mouse “Well, I don’t know,”
said Turley. He recalled
the scene. “There were
six kids. They looked like they came from all over the
world. There were two Asian boys, a little girl who looked
Ethiopian, a little Caucasian girl, and two babies. The dad
had a goatee. And there was a dark-haired woman taking
pictures.”
Makiko was incredulous. “That was Brad Pitt and
Angelina Jolie!”
The next time Turley was in a grocery store, a quick
glance at the magazine display confirmed that the large and
diverse family he had met was the globe-trotting Jolie-Pitt
clan.
Of course, the Jolie-Pitts couldn’t know that Turley had
no idea who they were, but it must have been refreshing to
be around someone who treated them as though they were
ordinary parents, who did not act obsequious or obnoxious
or star struck. In what surely must have been a first for the
family, Turley performed his entire act and left the hotel
without any evidence of his time with Brad and Angelina
– not one photo, not one autograph, no endorsements or ref-
erences.
His brush with celebrity superstardom hasn’t changed
Turley. His intellectual and spiritual pursuits continue.
He is currently reading the works of Thomas Merton, a
Trappist monk known for his ruminations on social justice
and pacifism. Although he prides himself in not following
the herd and is proud of the fact that he didn’t recognize
Brangelina, Turley does now make a point of perusing
tabloids in the checkout line “just to keep up.”

Do you have an interesting story for the Pro Files? Send me

an email at james@jamesmunton.com.

AUGUST 2011 55
QUICK LOOK BOOK NOOK
through all bodies.
“He further asserted that sickness and body pain were caused
by a blockage of this natural flow, and he developed several
remedies using magnets and hands-on massage to reduce pain
and promote healing.
Excerpt From: “His spectacular ‘cures’ became the talk of society, and King
Curtain Call Louis XVI offered him a life-time pension to keep him in France.
“Mesmer’s patients were mostly wealthy, attractive women
Author: Barrie Richardson who had what we might now call psychosomatic illnesses and
Description: Hardbound repressed sexual anxieties.
with dust jacket, 251 pages “Like a modern stage hypnotist, Mesmer discovered the value
Available From: of not accepting all patients. Only those who could supposedly
control the flow of energy with their own body were accepted as
www.HermeticPress.com patients.
“Anton Mesmer would have the prospective patient undergo
Barrie Richardson has established an enviable reputation tests such as the ones we will try.
as one of magic’s finest creators of mental effects. His first two “I need a volunteer. Ideally I would like to have a woman who
books for Hermetic Press (Theater of the Mind and Act Two) has had natural childbirth training. If not, I would like a woman
were highly praised. Mr. Richardson completes his trilogy who has a vivid imagination. The experiment will be enjoyable,
with Curtain Call, which features the full details of his entire and the helper will receive a special gift.”
professional act, dozens of wonderful tricks, routines, and tools An attractive woman, Carol, comes forward.
for the mentalist, and concludes with a unique piece that always “Let’s assume you are a prospective patient and I am Dr.
brings a strong emotional response and a spontaneous ovation Mesmer.” The performer freely shows a common yellow wooden
from his audiences. pencil. He places it on his open left hand, with the point resting on
As the following two routines aptly demonstrate, Mr. the middle finger and the eraser on his palm.
Richardson is a master at achieving memorable mysteries by “Please open your right hand – and relax.” The performer
simple means. My thanks to Stephen Minch and Hermetic Press takes the woman’s right wrist and holds her open hand five inches
for allowing M-U-M to publish these excerpts. —Michael Close above the pencil.
“Now I want you to feel that you have the power, due to the
animal magnetism that flows through your body, to adjust the
Mesmer’s Pencil dormant energy in this pencil.”
He slowly moves her open hand three or four times over the
In Theater of the Mind, I presented an effect in which a woman pencil.
could not lift an ordinary wooden pencil (Pencil Pusher, p. 71). Then...the eraser-end of the pencil starts to rise.
This was a demonstration not of hypnosis but of the power of sug- “Strange. Stay focused.”
gestion. Over the past decade, this effect has been presented by A few more strokes and the pencil pivots upward two or three
notable mentalists in North America and in Europe. I have added inches.
two additional phases to this routine, either of which can be done There are obviously no threads or magnets.
alone or in combination. I have also changed the script and, lastly, “Now reverse the flow.” The performer slowly moves Carol’s
I have given more specific details on how to tie the threads. open hand backward over the raised pencil, reversing the flow.
This is one of those rare pieces that can be done for a single Ever so slowly the pencil lowers back onto the palm where it
person or on stage in a large theater. There is no preparation, and started.
all that is required is a sharp pencil, a small invisible gimmick, “Will you please lift the pencil off my hand?”
a cooperative helper and a significant amount of stage manage- Carol does so without the performer making any motions or
ment. It is imperative that the performer establish a friendly yet adjustments.
authoritative relationship. There should be the feeling that this is
an experiment in which failure is a possibility and that success Phase II
is largely dependent on the special abilities of the volunteer. The
volunteer’s reactions are what make the demonstration so believ- “Carol, you are doing a wonderful job. Would you like to try
able, and this requires guidance and frequent public affirmation another experiment?”
of the helper’s success. She nods affirmatively.
“Please ignore the audience. Forget they are here. Follow my
instructions and concentrate on the images I will give you in a
Effect and Presentation: moment.”
The performer places the pencil on his open left hand, with the
Phase I eraser pointing to his right. Carol is standing at his right.
“With your left hand, grip the pencil between your thumb and
“Have you ever heard of Anton Mesmer? Mesmer was born first finger. Good! Now relax and shut your eyes.
and educated in Switzerland, and he set up his medical practice “Relax. Listen to my instructions. Carol, I want you to be suc-
in Paris in the latter part of the eighteenth century. He believed cessful. Use your immense creativity to imagine the pencil you
that a psychic ether pervades all space and that this energy flows are gripping is not a pencil. Imagine it is a metal bar. The metal is

56 M-U-M Magazine
from another planet. It is a hundred times more dense than iron. I originally used the
The pencil you are holding must weigh thirty pounds, not one common “invisible thread”
ounce. Can you imagine that? Don’t open your eyes. Keep the sold in fabric shops. It is
image in your mind. made of strong nylon; and as
“Try now to lift the thirty pound object. [Dramatically] You you will soon see, I still use
can’t lift it. It is too dense. Your mind sees it, senses it. It is getting this in the second and third
even heavier. Try a little harder! You can’t lift it. Keep your eyes phases of this routine. This
closed. Say out loud to the audience, ‘I can’t lift the pencil.’” works fine, and I wear one
She says with emotion, “I can’t lift the pencil.” tight loop on my left hand.
“Relax. The others aren’t sure what’s happening. Since your I have recently discov-
eyes are closed, you may think I’m stopping the pencil in some ered an even thinner nylon
way. Try! Remember, you believe it is thirty pounds. Now open thread, which you may wish
your eyes.” to try. Also a sewing thread,
She does. Her hand may be shaking. The pencil is there, it is called Wonder Invisible
resting on the performer’s hand. There is nothing constraining it. Thread and is made by the YLI
Her face shows wonder. Corporation in Rock Hill, SC.
“Please close your eyes again. Let’s change the image. The This clear thread is listed as size
pencil is now not thirty pounds; instead, it’s as light as a butterfly. .004 and comes on a spool holding
Use your mind. Release the weight. There is a butterfly weight in 1,500 yards. There are, no doubt,
your hand. Lift.” She does. other similar threads available. Any
“Higher! Make it float up like a butterfly.” She does. “invisible” nylon monofilament sewing thread
“Open your eyes and take a bow.” should work.
After trying many options, I have found
Phase III the simplest way to tie the loop is the best.
Cut off about eighteen inches of thread,
“Let’s try the most difficult test.” double it and tie a single over-hand knot in it,
Saying this, the performer removes a small envelope from his forming a one-inch loop in the middle. Slip your
breast pocket. He opens it and removes a three-inch feather. He left middle finger into the loop and pull the single
blows on it. knot fairly tight at the crease of the outer joint.
He once more places the pencil on his open left hand. Because the thread is nylon, even though there
“Carol, forget the audience. Concentrate on my instructions. is only a single knot, it will hold. (If you doubt
“This feather will gain weight when I put it on my palm. It will this, there is little harm in tying a square
weigh thirty pounds. You must create this image.” knot instead, although this knot is slightly
The feather is placed across the center of the pencil. more visible.)
“Carol, this time you will use both hands, but the feather will The loop should fit your finger
be dense and so heavy it virtually locks the pencil down. You will like a snug ring, without being
not be able to lift the pencil. harmful. When you turn your
“Now grasp the pencil with the thumb and first finger of your hand over, you may see
left hand, near one end, and grasp the other end in the same way a mark where the loop
with your right hand. circles the knuckle.
“That’s perfect. Now close your eyes.
“Use your immense imagination. Direct your mind to making
the pencil immovable. Try, gently, to lift the pencil. Now try
harder.” Finally, snip off the ends
Her face shows a mixture of astonishment and self-congratu- as close to the knot as
lation. possible. The nylon
“Open your eyes.” loop is “permanent.”
She shakes her head in wonderment. You wear it day and
“Relax your grip. The feather is now as light as a...as a feather. night, so you are
“Gently lift the feather with your right hand and blow on it. always ready for this
Now, with your left hand, lift the pencil into the air – and take a demonstration.
bow.” The pencil is ordinary
She does, and the audience applauds. but must be sharp. The
“Mesmer would want you as a patient, and just as Dr. Mesmer point will squeeze just
did, I invite you to keep the feather and the pencil as reminders of under the tight loop. You
the invisible forces in the universe and – most important – in you.” want only the tip – the
smallest length you can de-
pendably use – engaged.
Method: To cause the eraser-end of
the pencil to rise, very slightly
Phase I – The Rise straighten the middle finger.
Properly done, this action is
The solution to this perplexing demonstration is a hidden loop imperceptible.
of invisible thread on the first joint of your left middle finger. After you lower the pencil

AUGUST 2011 57
QUICK LOOK BOOK NOOK
Phase III – The Feather Test
A few years back, I got a phone call from Chuck Smith, a
brilliant professional magician. He has a reputation for fooling
everyone, even the most knowledgeable magicians.
Chuck asked if I would give him my permission to use the
heavy pencil test in his program.
“Of course,” I said. “It is published and therefore available for
use.” I thanked him for the courtesy of his call. He then asked
for my address, as he wished to send me some of his material.
How gracious, I thought. Before he hung up, he told me how he
used a small feather to “add weight.” This did two things. First, it
back to its original rest position on your palm, a slight movement completely covered the loop; and it made everyone focus on the
of the middle finger toward the palm will release the point and feather. What a clever man Mr. Smith is.
allow the pencil to be freely lifted away. This is a surprisingly The third phase is much like the second. However, I raise
simple action, which is done openly. my left hand to the height of the woman’s shoulders. Her lifting
motion is made more visible to the audience, and it is diminished.
Phase II – The Heavy Pencil This prevents her tugging strongly upward, since she is forced to
lift with the fingers of both hands, rather than with her arms.
This demonstration uses another loop of thread. This is a loop There you have it. It isn’t a spectacular illusion, but it holds
of the standard clear nylon sewing thread. Some magicians have the attention of audiences and directs attention to the unexpected
told me they use one-and-a-half-pound fishing mesmeric talent of your helper. Best of all, it doesn’t seem like a
line, which is also very light. trick.
Tie the loop in the same manner P.S. The hidden loop of thread used for the rising pencil can
taught above. Once again, the thread also be used to make an ordinary fork rise. This can be done
must be snug on your finger, without in a restaurant without any preparation. The thread, though, is
constricting blood flow. This more likely to break, due to the greater weight of the fork and the
loop goes at the crease of the thickness of its tines. On the positive side, the fork rises higher
inner joint of your left middle than the pencil, thanks to its curvature, and it does look very
finger; and like the first loop, spooky.
you will wear it always. When The Magician – Summer 2007
preparing for the heavy-pencil
test, you squeeze the pencil
under this hidden loop, and let it Symbologic Revisited
lie in a perfectly normal position
on your hand, with the eraser end This routine is one in which the participant is successful in
pointing to your right. intuiting the colors of unseen objects. The experiment is done
The loop may rest a few inches past first with three choices and then repeated with five. The second
the point of the pencil. matching is the more dramatic and, if desired, can be performed
This works. without doing the first phase.
However, you may also place the Effect and Presentation: The performer opens a small purse
pencil across your open palm, with and dumps ten quarters from it onto the table. There are round
the loop engaged near the center stickers on the tails sides of all ten coins. These stickers are
of the pencil. Turn the pencil so colored to make two corresponding sets of coins, each set consist-
that the printing on the pencil ing of a red, a white, a blue, a green and a yellow coin.
faces upward. The print helps to “Marked coins like these are used in statistics courses to dem-
hide the thread. Even a careful onstrate how most of us incorrectly estimate the probability of
observer cannot perceive it. But events. Let me show you an experiment.” The performer pushes
there is no careful observer in three of the coins to a woman sitting opposite. Assume they are
this routine. red, white and blue. He picks up the three matching coins and
If the woman holds the hides them from view in his left hand. He next removes one and
eraser end between her thumb places it colored-side down on the table, so that no one can discern
and first finger, the pencil will remain the color.
secure and unliftable. It will take a little “Your job is to use your intuition and try to guess the color
practice to learn how to position it. You on this coin. Simply push one of yours forward to declare your
may have to move the eraser end forward choice.”
an inch or so to get a secure hold. The woman pushes one across the table; say, the white one.
When you remove the pencil, do not pull The performer sets it, colored-side down, on top of his quarter.
it rightward to free it from the loop. Rather, use your right fingers This procedure is repeated twice, accompanied by some
to grasp it, hold it steady and, as you patter, move your left hand urging that the woman follow her intuition as she tries to match
sideways. This cleanly releases the pencil. It’s a small thing, but it the unknown color of each of his coins with one of hers.
adds to the appearance of total fairness. The three pairs of coins are neatly stacked, each on the last,

58 M-U-M Magazine
into a single pile. and conviction.
“What is the probability that all your selections have been Initially, I marked the faces of the coins, so that all of them
correct? Well, this is how it works. The first choice – the white could be placed colored-sides down during the pairing phases.
coin – was one chance in three, right?” Holding the stack in his This, though, often created difficulties caused by my poor vision
hand, the performer removes the two bottom coins and sets them and circumstances of lighting. I’ve found that leaving the helper’s
on the table, with their colored sides still down. coins colored-sides up does not weaken the effect. In fact, it has
“For the second guess, you only had two choices, remember?” the advantage of stimulating the onlookers’ interest. In addition,
The next pair of coins is removed from the stack and similarly the correct sequence of the selected colors is noted by close
tabled. observers. And as the coins are unmarked, there is nothing suspi-
“Now here is the point most people miss.” He sets down the cious to find.
remaining two coins. “The probability of getting all three right is The basis of the method is an expanded quarter shell, head side
what – one out of twenty? One out of fifteen? No, it is one out of intact, and the ancient one-behind strategy.
six. Let’s see how you did on your first try.”
The first two coins are turned over. Their colors match. “Good Phase I – Three Matches
guess! Look, the second pair also matches. That means the last
two have to – match!” The first phase doesn’t use the shell, so you keep it safely
When this has sunk in, and the situation has been appreciated, hidden for the time being. An easy and practical way of conceal-
the performer continues. “Let’s try to raise the bar. We’ll use all ing it is simply to nest it over one of the quarters that is not used in
five pairs of coins.” He picks up one set of five and places them this phase. Alternatively, you can keep it on your lap.
colored-side down in his hand. He then lays the remaining set The particulars of the handling are based on those taught in
colored-side up in a row in front of his intuitive helper. Douglas Dyment’s Bob’s Your Uncle (see his Mindsights, p. 28),
After some hesitation, the performer places one of his quarters, which in turn is a variation of a Charles Pecor idea (Bob’s ESP
colored-side down, on the table. The woman pushes a colored Demonstration in Pecor’s Sinister Variations, p. 5).
coin of her choice forward as her guess. As in the first test, the In your hand, you hold three coins with colors matching those
performer turns this coin colored-side down and stacks it with its given your assistant. To start things off, you place one of your
target coin. This is repeated twice. coins down with the color hidden on the underside. Assume it is
The performer sets a fourth coin colored-side down on the the white coin, although it could be any one you like. Take care
table. “Please place your guess colored-side down on this one.” that no one sees the color as you remove the coin from your closed
As she is making her decision, the performer neatly and fairly hand. If your helper pushes her white coin forward to join yours,
assembles the previous three pairs of coins into a stack. think to yourself, “Match.” If not, think, “No match.”
By this point, the woman has elected her fourth choice. “You For now, I will proceed on the assumption that the colors of
did that one with more certainty. Now put your coin on top of mine this first pair of coins do match. We’ll discuss later what happens
– and place those two onto these.” In concert with his instruc- when they do not.
tions, he points to indicate she should place the fourth pair onto Cleanly turn your helper’s coin colored-side down and set it
the stack of six previous coins. onto your coin. Next put down a second coin; let’s assume it is the
“And now put your last coin on mine.” The performer places blue one. If you are very lucky, and the participant pushes forward
his final coin colored-side down on top of the pile, and the woman her matching blue one, the effect is an automatic success, since
does the same. the third pair of coins must match.
“How well did you do? Two out of five is average.” Suppose that either the first pair of coins or the second do not
The performer picks off the top two coins and sets them to his match. Think, “No match” to yourself. As soon as you get a “No
right. He places the next pair beside these, then the next and the match,” follow the one-behind rule, choosing for your next coin
next, forming a row of five pairs. These, and all actions, are scru- that which matches the previous color your helper has pushed
pulously fair and open. forward.
“Now help me. I don’t want to disturb any of these pairs. When your helper pushes out her next coin, it cannot match
Please turn over the top coin of each.” yours, so you continue the one-behind strategy to the end.
She does so, showing her five colors. These are in the order she While your helper makes each new decision, you turn the coin
dispersed them, as they should be, though this isn’t mentioned. she previously picked colored-side down onto its target coin, the
“Turn this one over,” the performer says, indicating the first of one your helper hopes to match. This eventually creates three
his coins. It matches. piles of two quarters, all colored-sides down.
“And this one.” Another match. Gather them into a single stack, placing the center pair onto
“And this one.” Again, a match. the first, then the coins last paired onto the four just stacked.
This is repeated, and all five pairs are seen to match. The result As mentioned earlier, sometimes the matching happens
is astonishing, and there can be no trickery. All the coins are left honestly. The rest of the time you will have to resort to a little
on the table, as all are innocent. simple sleight of hand. The key move is a version of the glide,
Method: Hen Fetsch’s wonderful trick, Symbologic, was adapted to coins.
released in 1954. It is still an amazing trick. But there are some Grip the stack at the fingertips of your palm-down left hand.
things that, in my opinion, make the treatment of Symbologic Suppose you know that the bottom two coins match. In that case,
I’ve just described even more amazing. First, using coins seems you simply slide them one-by-one off the bottom of the stack and
somehow inherently less tricky than using playing or ESP cards. place them on the table. If, however, they do not match, your right
The coins also make a tall stack, which appears to prevent sleight- fingers secretly push back the bottom one about a quarter of an
of-hand. And there is the sound made as the quarters are slid and inch. Pull out the two coins above it, one at a time, and place
turned over, which somehow adds an extra dimension of honesty them together, colored-sides still downward, on the table. You

AUGUST 2011 59
QUICK LOOK BOOK NOOK
casually assemble the previous three pairs of coins, as you did in
the first test. As you stack the second pair onto the first, squaring
the coins, the shell automatically slides over the bottom one,
covering it. No one ever notices there is one coin less in the pile
than there should be. Then set the third pair onto the others.
By this time your helper will have set down her fourth coin.
Ask her to turn it colored-side down, put it onto your fourth coin
and place the pair on top of the stack.
Everyone believes you have only one coin left in your hand.
In fact, you have two. As you focus your attention, and everyone
else’s, on your helper’s stacking of the coins, slip one of your
remaining two into right-hand thumb palm. You can then casually
flash the silver side of the remaining coin in your left hand.
The woman’s actions provide exceptionally strong misdirec-
tion, during which you place the coin in your left hand either
will have to do this twice if none of the three pairs match. The under or over the thumb-palmed one. The order of these last two
third pair always matches, once any necessary adjustments have coins is determined by the color of your helper’s last coin. The
been carried out with the first and second pairs, so these last two top coin of the two you are holding out of sight must match this
coins are simply set down. color. Immediately but casually set both coins onto the stack, as if
If this explanation seems complicated, please go through the they were one. When you do this, slide the top coin slightly out of
procedure two or three times and you will discover how easy it is. register with the rest, making it look as if you’ve set just it on top.
All that is required of you is that you do the glide whenever you This furthers the impression that you’ve deposited only one coin,
think, “No Match.” although there should be no suspicion of anything else.
Ask your helper to place her final coin on top of the others.
Phase II – Five Matches Now remove the top two coins as a unit and place them well to
the right on the table. Take off the next pair and set them slightly
The second phase translates Hen Fetsch’s method for ESP to the left of the first pair. Continue to remove the coins in pairs
cards to an equivalent one for coins. Instead of a hidden extra from the stack, forming a row. The final pair, the bottom coin of
card, we use a shell to perform the same secret function. Pick up which wears the shell, is not moved. Arrange matters so that the
one set of five differently colored coins, including the one wearing others form a straight line with this pair. Now ask your helper to
the shell. turn over the top coin of each set and place it in front of its mate.
First place one of the coins colored-side down on the table – When the coin over the shell has been taken off, casually place
then apparently change your mind. Pick it up, allowing it to be your left fingers on top of the shell for a moment. Simultaneously,
seen on both sides without mentioning the color. Replace it in place your right fingers similarly on the corresponding coin at the
your hand and set the shell on the table instead. The innocence of right end of the row.
the first coin is transferred psychologically to the shell. Slide both coins forward an inch or so, while pressing your left
You will again rely on the one-behind principle. For example, fingertips down firmly on the shell. It should look as if you are
if your helper pushes her blue coin forward for her first selection, tidying up the display.
you set your blue coin out, colored-side down, as your second When you raise your left hand, the shell will stick momentari-
target. If your helper then pushes forward her red coin, you lay out ly to your fingers and is secretly stolen away. This works perfectly
your red coin for the third target. Let’s assume she pairs this with if your fingertips are slightly moist. Move the shell into classic
her green coin. As she considers and makes each of her choices,
you turn her previously chosen coin colored-side down and stack
it with your target coin.
While this procedure seems
identical to that used in the first
test, there is a small modifica-
tion that seems inconsequential
if it is noticed at all. As you
stack the first pair, you set your
coin (the shell) over hers, rather
than the reverse. In addition,
when you set the shell onto her
coin, don’t let it nest; rather, let it
rest on the coin, overlapping it while
one edge stays in contact with the table.
Stack the other two sets of coins as you have
before, hers on top of yours. You may leave these pairs arranged palm before it can fall, or simply curl the fingers loosely, letting
similarly to the first. The important thing is that your actions look the shell rest on their tips.
entirely fair and casual. You are now ready for a dramatic revelation, after which ev-
Set out your green coin (as her last choice was green) for the erything can be examined.
fourth target. While your helper is making her fourth decision, The Magician –August/September 2006

60 M-U-M Magazine
 INFORMED OPINION
Latest Product Reviews
Compiled and Edited by W. S. Duncan

Unspeakable Acts Book to primary sources included in the volume, no one would believe
By Jim Magus with Terry Nosek and Neil Tobin even half of the tales that have been collected and published. Tony
Available from Jim Magus through PayPal to even knew Jack Ruby, the nightclub owner who shot Lee Harvey
jimmagus@comcast.net Oswald after President Kennedy’s assassination. Tony’s testimony
Price $75.00 plus $8.00 shipping in the USA to the Warren Commission is included in the detailed appendix.
Jim Magus, Terry Nosek, and Neil Tobin (the star of Chicago
Review by Joshua Kane Supernatural) are to be commended and thanked for compiling
and editing so much material into a volume whose momentum
Unspeakable Acts is this year’s and page-turning energy never flags. The book is hardbound, 533
guilty pleasure read. It is a witty and pages, and is lavishly illustrated with line drawings, photographs,
salacious roller coaster ride through and reproductions of articles, ads, and ephemera. I thoroughly
the life of one of magic’s most compli- enjoyed the read and know that I will return to it often.
cated and creative individuals; a man Because no effects are taught in the book, and because the
whose legacy has left three distinct community who most passionately remembers and reveres Tony
identities for historians and friends is a self-selecting one, I feel that the publisher could sell ten times
alike to contend with, be confused by, as many copies as a $35 paperback. At that price it would be a
and miss seeing at the bar or hospital- no-brainer. At the hardbound price, some folks may be scared off.
ity suite. The man, the myth, and the I recommend that every collector, magic club, and assembly order
magic are inseparable in the tripartite at least one copy for their library.
subject of this volume. Three of the
most creative and impactful perform- Danger in Paradise/Malay Woman Book
ers, whose work I frequently bought By Sid Fleischman
from Magic, Inc. in my teens, were Available from Stark House Press
Tom Palmer, Tony Andruzzi, and Masklyn Ye Mage. Imagine Price $20.00
my surprise later in life when I learned that all three people were
actually one person, whom I came to hold in high regard and Review by Jim Kleefeld
knew from late night phone conversations.
Over the years, it has become clear to me that almost everyone Just when you get ready to waste some
I have met in magic either knew Tony Andruzzi or had a story free time and think there’s nothing in
about him. Tony was one of those performers whose name you escapist literature around, along comes
could have used for a round of “six degrees of Kevin Bacon,” if a pair of saucy stories about adventure
the Bacon game had been played with magicians. His fingerprints in exotic lands. Stark House Press has
are all over contemporary magic history. gained some renown by republishing
Andruzzi was the undisputed godfather and public represen- pulp fiction of the ‘40s and ‘50s. About
tative of bizarre magick. Despite Tony Raven being the actual five years ago I picked up a book with
creator of Invocation magazine, it is Andruzzi who is most two stories by Fleischman, Look Behind
often identified with the monthly journal that united shamanistic You, Lady and The Venetian Blonde.
performers and Lovecraftian writers. Prior to this, as Tom Palmer, Both were about magicians caught up in
he was involved in the early days of televised magic and worked crime and turmoil. I thoroughly enjoyed
with such luminaries as Mark Wilson. As Masklyn Ye Mage, he both stories for what they were – light
was an early member of the Psychic Entertainers Association and reading with a bit of nostalgia thrown in.
was just as famous for effects that did not work as he was for This new Stark republication contains another pair by the
ones that did. He was happily infamous for his ability to terrorize same author. Two short stories, Danger in Paradise and Malay
hotel staff with his portable Satanic altars and rituals. His Invoca- Woman are combined in one 276-page book. Written in the early
tional conventions were famous in their time; being able to claim 1950s, they both contain great gobs of post-war pulp escapism.
attendance at them is still a status symbol equal to being able to Hard-boiled mugs duke it out with foreign bums and miscreants,
claim that one saw the original NYC production of Harold Pinter’s while dames with great gams and ulterior motives entice them
The Birthday Party. And like that event, which would still be with feminine wiles. It’s all very Dashielle Hammet and Ellery
running today if as many people had actually seen it as claimed to Queen, with a touch of Fu Manchu.
have, Madison Square Garden would have been required to seat Fleischman spent the war years in Indonesia and the Far East,
all those who claim to have played with Tony and his gang. so he learned the ins and outs of tropical settings. He uses his
If there ever was a performer whose life was stranger than travels (and a great deal of research) to make Malay, Bali, Kuala
fiction and suited for a mad bio-pic, it was Tony. If it were not for Lumpur, and Singapore come to life in these stories. Steamships,
the careful documentation of newspaper articles and references ports, seedy bars, and rubber plantations provide the backdrop for

AUGUST 2011 61
a beautiful but mysterious Russian woman to who tries to smuggle Next up are Nimble Thimbles and Three Burnt Matches. The
gun-running information, an on-the-run overseer who awoke to routine starts out with two corks on a table. Using just two fingers
find his wife murdered, and a local control war between native like a pair of scissors, Jim lifts the corks that are side by side
terrorists and the Red Army. And then there is the enigmatic and turns them over three times. A
Asian who carries a tiny deadly bird in his bare hands. spectator is offered a chance to
I reviewed a prepublication edition – the actual book will be try to repeat the effect. The
available in August – but there is little to suggest the final product spectator fails. Jim offers
will not be exactly the same as my copy. And aside from a typo a dollar if a spectator
or two, there is little to change: in one volume, two short stories, can do it and lets him
written and sold to pulp magazines back in 1953 and 1954. There try again. In the per-
are exotic ports of call, mysterious women, danger around every formance, one spectator
corner, and several well-plotted twists in the tales. I loved the is able to duplicate the
intrigue, the mystery, the romance, and the nostalgic look at stunt and wins the dollar.
what used to pass for common literature. But then, I’m a Maltese Jim offers another stunt
Falcon kind of guy. to win his dollar back. Three
You probably already know whether you like pulp fiction or paper matches are removed
not, but if you have never read the genre, this is a great place to from a match book; they are lit
start. The characters are well-defined and things move quickly. and extinguished. Jim explains that the
Surprises and adventures pop up as quickly as in an Indiana Jones spectator is to respond “three burnt matches” to
film. People are shot and stabbed in the back. Jock’s best friend a series of three questions. The spectator fails and Jim gets his
leaves town and his wife tries to seduce Jock. Gun-runners stage a dollar back. These are bar stunts as opposed to magic, but in the
gun battle against island natives. A widow who inherited a planta- correct venue they are interesting and are a nice interlude between
tion drives around in an armored car. There is a rich American in magical effects.
a white suit who kills everyone that gets in his way. Jeff falls in Following this interlude is the FBI Trick, a classic thumb cuff
love quickly, discovers his lover is deceitful, and falls in love with escape. Jim demonstrates the thumb cuffs by placing them on an
someone else. audience member. Jim is then cuffed and a handkerchief is used
The Fleischman stories would make great beach reading. Or to cover his hands; he is able to quickly make his escape. There is
save them for a lonesome winter night by the fire. Which almost some nice byplay with the audience as he is able to escape with a
brings me to closing, except for a possible mystery of our own. surprise finish. There is nothing new here in the escape but Jim’s
Why is M-U-M, the magazine for magicians, reviewing a book of surprise finish is a nice touch to a classic.
fiction with no magician characters or magic settings? Well, if by Soaring Straw is the next effect using a straw that seems to
now you have not recognized the name of the author and his con- move on its own and levitate. This is a very quick, visual routine.
nection with our world, maybe you should buy this to find out. Sid Following the straw effect is Invisible Thumbscrews. This is an
Fleischman, besides being a terrific magician and writer of great old classic stunt with a spectator using nothing more than his
magic books, both fiction and non-fiction, is a great writer, period. clasped hands and extended forefingers. The Animated Card Box
If you have to have magicians in your reading, then the fine intro- is Jim’s adaptation of the animated match box using a card box.
duction about Fleischman’s life and writing provides a concise The box rotates, stands up, and opens. It looks very good and at
biography of the man and his magic. Or, look up the great 2006 the end, the box can be examined. Following the animated card
book with the two stories mentioned in the opening paragraph. box is a routine with cards called One-armed Aces. The premise
For a great read and a fine example of a particular genre, this is a of this effect is that using only one hand, Jim is able to produce the
fine publication by a fine writer. As for Danger in Paradise and first three Aces with a series of one-handed cuts. The last Ace is
Malay Woman, there is no magician in these stories, but there is missed; the card produced is a Joker. The Joker is turned into the
magic. final Ace. This looks great and it demonstrates your dexterity with
a pack of cards. This routine is for the intermediate to advanced
Pockets Full of Miracles DVD card worker.
By Diamond Jim Tyler The first coin routine is called Trapdoor Coins. Three coins
Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies are passed through the solid table one at a time. The effect is short
Retail Price $34.95 and straight to the point, using just three coins. There is nothing
new here, but it is a nice routine. Returning to cards, Jim presents
Review by Jamie Salinas Diamond Dazzler. A spectator selects a card at random. The card
is approximately near the middle of the deck as the cards are held
This DVD contains close-up routines from Diamond Jim face down. The deck is opened by Jim from the front as he lifts
Tyler’s repertoire. Jim is an accomplished performer who provides approximately half of the pack, and the selected card shoots out of
you with many effects that he has created or varied. The routines the pack. This is a nice production of a selected card.
are easy to follow and easy to master. There is a ton of material In Cat and Mouse a spectator selects a card to represent a
on this DVD. mouse. The mouse card is shuffled back into the pack and a mouse
The first effect is called Baseball Diamond. A deck of playing trap is brought out and set. The cards are removed from the top of
cards with baseball players on the faces is shuffled. A spectator the pack one by one and held near the trap. After several cards go
selects a card at random and Jim explains that he has a predic- by, the trap catches one card. The card is the selected mouse-card.
tion card in the box that was lying on the table from the very The trap is turned over and on the bottom is a message that has
beginning. The box is tipped down and out of the box falls a full- a warning about the selected card. The trap creates tension in the
sized baseball. The selected card is shown to have Juan Gonzales routine and is a novel card revelation. Thankfully, Jim includes
on the face, and the baseball is signed by Juan Gonzales. tips to present the routine safely.

62 M-U-M Magazine
 At this point in the DVD, we have not yet reached the half way The Minotaur Final Issue 2-DVD set
mark! The marathon continues with Gun Slinger. Jim draws a By Dan Harlan and Marv Leventhal
cowboy on the back of a spectator’s card. The card is bent verti- Available from: www.danharlanmagic.com
cally and placed on the card box so that it is standing up. Jim Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies
makes a gun shape with his hand and pretends to fire the weapon Price $60.00
at the outlaw. The card falls over as a loud bang sound is heard
and a hole is now found through the card. This routine has a nice Review by Michael Close
Wild West theme. The appearing hole in the card is a nice touch
to round out this routine. Sadly, one of my small pleasures in life has been taken
Breaking away from card magic, Jim borrows a bill, folds it away from me. For many years, whenever I happened to be at
into a small packet, waves a hole-puncher around the bill, and the same magic convention as Marv Leventhal, I took great
when the bill is unfolded, many punched out pieces fall to the delight in shouting at him (preferably at a distance), “Where’s
table; the bill is now seen to have the words “Happy B-day” my Minotaur?!” Marv and his partner (in the publishing sense
punched in it. The bill is handed back as a souvenir. This is defi- of the word) Dan Harlan put out a very nice magazine in the
nitely something different from your standard effects with money 1990s, called Minotaur (half magic, half bull). The magazine was
and is my favorite item on the DVD. published quarterly and ran for eight volumes. The frustrating
We are next treated to a classic Ring and String routine using thing for subscribers was that the final issue, Volume 8, Number
a borrowed ring and a leather lace. There is nothing new here, but 4, never appeared. At the various conventions, after I had stopped
it is a nice routine. Continuing with the classics, Jim performs a shouting, Marv always offered
Coins Across routine using five coins and a glass. Jim concludes apologies to me, but the world
the routine with the production of two large coins and one jumbo (as it is want to do) moved
coin. Again, there is nothing new here, but it is a well-routined on, and the final issue never
version of a classic of magic. showed up.
As I was watching Jim perform the next routine, Fire Ball, I Until now. The boys
could not help thinking I had seen this before. A piece of tissue have released The
paper is torn into four pieces and rolled into a ball. The ball is Minotaur Final Issue, a
pierced with a large needle and held over the flame from a lighter. two-DVD set that fulfills
The paper busts into a flash of fire. As the fire subsides, the ball of their commitment to sub-
paper remains in a ball. The paper ball is removed from the large scribers (and if you were
needle and opened up. The paper is found to be restored to one a subscriber you should
single piece. I remember this effect, in a smaller scale, as John contact Dan through his Web
Bannon’s trick Shriek of the Mutilated. During the explanation site) and allows those who never sub-
of the effect, Jim credits John Bannon. Jim has a slight variation scribed to get a feel for the kind of magic that
of the handling that is designed for the larger tissue paper. This is made the Minotaur such a great magazine.
very visual magic. I loved the effect when I first read about it from There are twenty-five effects on the first disc, which is labeled
Bannon and I really like how Jim has made this effect play bigger. the Feature Presentation. These effects are a mix of close-up and
Jim presents another quick effect called New Age Spellbound. stand-up effects, magic and mentalism, with a variety of props.
This routine uses a small black stone that is turned into a diamond Not everything appealed to me (nor should it), but there were
(clear stone) and back to a black stone several times. This one is several items I liked very much, including Harlan’s Cupside Down
really quick and is great for walk-around magic. In Mathamagic a (a full cup of coffee is placed in a small bag and inverted – no
spectator selects a small block of cards and is asked to count them coffee is spilled) and Royal Plushy (a full-deck stack that delivers
in a special manner. Before the spectator finishes counting the a winning poker hand to the dealer regardless of the number of
cards, Jim has the spectator guess how many cards he has. In this hands requested). I’m sure you’ll find several things that will
case, the spectator guesses eighteen and Jim guesses twenty-one. appeal to you. Interwoven between the tricks is a storyline
The spectator continues counting and finds that he has eleven. concerning a Dan Harlan look-alike robot. To be honest, I fast-
The cards are handed to a second spectator to count the cards; forwarded through all of those.
he counts fifteen. The cards are handed to a third spectator for The second disc contains eight bonus effects, one from each
counting and he gets twenty-one cards. The first count is a little of the eight volumes of Minotaur. Again, you’ll find a variety of
fishy but the second and third counting sequence is very straight- effects, and one or two are sure to appeal to you. The second disc
forward. Jim’s inspiration for the routine comes from a Paul also contains several files of interest and usefulness: three indexes
Harris effect. This is a very different effect with a pack of cards. covering all eight volumes (by issue, by the name of the trick, and
There are twenty-three effects, routines, and bits of business by the creator), some photographs taken during the video shoot,
covered on this DVD. For the most part, the sleights needed to and files that are needed for a few of the tricks.
perform the material are not very difficult and the material can I have only one gripe about this product, and it is not really
be performed by the beginning-to-intermediate performer. Jim is a legitimate criticism; I can’t complain about what a product
obviously a veteran and everything is well thought out and honed isn’t, anymore than someone could complain that pigs don’t have
through many hours of performance in front of live audiences. wings. Things are what they are. But, for those of us who would
He is a very good teacher of the routines presented. For the have liked to have put our file of Minotaur to rest, it would have
most part, there is nothing new here, but there is a lot of been nice to at least have prepared a PDF file of the final issue
very solid magic and a couple of gems that are great for the of the magazine. This would have allowed collectors to print out
working professional or the casual performer. Boost your the final issue and bind it up with the rest of the volumes. But,
close-up magic repertoire with a dose of twenty-three unfortunately, that wasn’t done, so there you are.
effects for only $34.95. If you are familiar with the kind of material the Minotaur

AUGUST 2011 63
featured, or if you are a fan of Dan Harlan, you are sure to enjoy halves in the right hand and two quarters in the left. After the first
The Minotaur Final Issue DVDs. If you aren’t familiar with the transposition, you have one of each in each hand. At the end, you
Minotaur, the product is worth the money; the discs offer fine have quarters in the right hand and halves in the left hand. It’s
examples of the type of material that was featured within its many dead simple, but you end dirty. Pairing it with the Tenkai Pennies
pages. You may even be inspired to try to track down the back allows you to dump the something extra when you put away the
issues. As happy as I am that the Minotaur has been put to bed, halves to “make things simpler” for the audience to follow.
I’m bummed that I’ll have to figure out something else to yell at Combined, the two effects create a nice mini-act with coins
Marv the next time I see him. that can be performed with quarters and pennies…nothing more
than pocket change. How many twenty dollar investments will
Tenkai Pennies and Milliken’s Transposition DVD give you a solid multi-phase routine that you can perform anytime
Available from: www.llpub.com you can break a dollar at the corner store? More than worth the
Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies money and the time invested.
Price $20.00
Tea Leaf Reading and More 2-DVD Set
Review by W.S. Duncan By Dean Montalbano
Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies
If you’ve been reading this magazine for a couple of years, Price $75.00
you may have noticed that if I review a DVD from the World’s
Greatest Magic series, it’s likely to be a recommended buy. Review by Joshua Kane
From the first DVD of this series, which I
reviewed when I was a staff writer In several world cultures, serving tea is a ceremony invested
and Dick Hatch was editing with meaning and involves significant ritual. The observation of
this column, to the arrival of teatime deepens communal bonds and can instill a serene sense
the latest volumes, one thing of order. It is a centering process, and allows one to be deeply
has remained constant: if the present. The antithesis of coffee in a cardboard cup, it encourages
subject matter of the DVD self-reflection and conversation. It can usurp anger and offers
is of interest to you, then the people a face-saving opportunity to reconnect when a day has
twenty bucks is money well been falling apart. It is, in effect, a mini Sabbath; and as such, it
spent. offers the opportunity for participants to create new beginnings.
Daryl, classicist that he is, does It also puts people in a receptive state
something I’ve never seen before. to be entertained and diverted.
He does the Tenkai Pennies with pennies. Despite most Americans having
And while I’ve done the trick with quarters, only experienced tea in a bag,
halves, and even dollar coins (using the method from the idea of someone reading
Ponta the Smith’s DVD Sick), I have never tried it with pennies. meaning from the dregs of a
Turns out, the trick is just as strong with the tiny coins, perhaps cup of tea made with loose
even better, and much easier to perform. Daryl teaches the original tea is firmly imprinted in
method, which, if you call yourself a magician, you should know. our culture. Even in the
It’s one of the true classics of close-up and not as demanding as Harry Potter novels, the first
it seems. Or maybe it’s just that Daryl is an excellent teacher. lesson in clairvoyance taught
No matter. Buy the DVD, learn this, and you have received your by Professor Trelawney is the
twenty bucks worth. reading of tea leaves.
After learning the original, you can advance to Steve Draun’s We are meaning-making creatures. In
handling, which uses a different, and more advanced, back addition to the snap judgments that are initiated by our primitive
clipping method. Draun’s version doesn’t alter the effect, but does survival instincts, we also have the ability, when relaxed, to
allow you to work with larger coins without the angle problems daydream a bit and find meaning and images in the most unlikely
raised by the original method when using half dollars. places. Which of us has not laid on our backs on a summer day and
There is also a short home movie clip of Ross Bertram, in looked up at the clouds, discovering bunnies and faces floating
full kimono, doing the effect with English pennies. There is an by? Reading tea leaves is largely based on the same principle,
unfortunate cut to show a close-up that occurs before showing known as pareidolia. (Now there’s a neat Scrabble word!) Pare-
the effect. It makes it appear that the camera edit is the method. idolia is the psychological phenomenon that encourages us to see
Fans of magic history may be happy to see the legend do some bunnies in clouds and images of religious figures on the toasted
coin magic, but kids will probably wonder what all the fuss was bread of a grilled cheese sandwich. For those of you who possess
about. If you are one of those kids, let me assure you that you do a pareidolic nature, tea leaf reading will be a quick-to-learn and
get to see Bertram do the move, although you may not think so fun-to-implement divination system.
upon first viewing. Montalbano teaches a thorough introductory course on
Following Bertram is David Roth teaching his Deep Palm the system of reading tea leaves. The instruction is lucid and
version of the effect, another method that allows for larger coins. engaging. As with his Tarot instruction set, we are once again
David then returns to introduce (Harry) Milliken’s Transposition. treated to a combination of animations and live footage. There are
This routine uses two pairs of differently sized coins (in Roth’s also printed materials in a DVD-ROM section of the second disc.
demonstration halves and quarters are used, and in Daryl’s pre- There is more than enough information to put you on the road of
sentation, which follows, halves and copper subway tokens). learning the basics over a weekend. Recommendations for print
In Milliken’s Transposition, you show (for example) two book sources for further education are also provided. In addition

64 M-U-M Magazine
to tea leaf reading, Montalbano has expanded upon the theme of street close-up. In the basic version, after the obligatory card is
utilizing a pareidolic skill set to include Blei Giessen, (a German selected, you roll up your sleeve and draw a picture of a playing
divination system used at the New Year that involves the melting card on your forearm with a Sharpie in an attempt to divine the
of lead figures and dropping them into water so the that the re- selection. It’s the wrong card, but you save the day by announc-
constructed shapes can be interpreted to reveal meaning for the ing the drawing is actually a deck of cards and the selected card
coming year), wax splatter readings, dry tea and herb readings, is somewhere in the middle. You then grab your forearm, give it a
and finally lipstick print readings, which are sure to be popular at shake or two, and the drawing animates to show the selected card
singles events and other parties. Unlike the Tarot DVD set, there rising up out of the middle of the deck – in ink. You’re left with
are no subtitles with this set. Instruction on the ethics of reading the complete image indelibly scribbled on your flesh. If you want
and a business model on how to get bookings doing such readings to end as in the Martin Lewis original, you can tear the skin with
are once again supplied and are worth the second exposure. Dem- the drawing on it off your forearm and give it to the spectator as a
onstrations of sample readings are also provided. Altogether, souvenir. Okay, you can’t. Rather, you shouldn’t, but I’ll bet David
I found this to be an enjoyable set and am looking forward to Blaine or Dan Sperry figure out how.
adding tea leaf readings to my own social repertoire. This is a great idea. It’s a strong idea, and it’s a diabolical
idea. The method comes straight out of another classic effect – if
The Classic Force DVD I said which, I’d give the game away. It’s good enough that I’m
By Phil Jay actually a little disappointed I can’t do it. Not “can’t” as in skill
Available from JB Magic and Mark Mason (although I’m betting my skin would give me trouble trying to
Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies perform this), but “can’t” the same way Woody Allen never casts
Price $30.00 Arnold Schwarzenegger as the lead in his films. I wear suit jackets
and ties. I have no tattoos. If I want to draw a picture or write
Review by Norman Beck something down, I carry paper or index cards. Barring develop-
ing Memento-like problems with my memory, I’m not going to
I had never heard of Phil Jay, but roll up my sleeve and start scrawling on myself in Sharpie in front
then I don’t get out much, and Phil of people. Penn & Teller could do this in suits. I can’t. And given
Jay is not a magic dealer/lecturer how good this idea is, that’s a bit of a shame.
kind of guy. Phil Jay is a worker The instructions on this DVD are crystal-clear. Nothing is
and one of the tools he uses, and supplied (save a pill fob keychain to carry the “secret stuff”), but
uses a bunch, is the classic force. a quick trip to your corner drug store and you’re all set. There’s
I think it is one thing to learn a the basic version I described, and another where you have two
sleight from a guy who makes his cards selected and get an extra “pop” by getting the first divina-
living selling things to magicians and tion right. The necessary basic card moves are taught for both
another thing to learn from a guy who versions. But who cares? The card rises up on your skin! Plus
makes his living doing magic for the real they give some very helpful tips for being able to repeat the effect
world and getting paid to entertain. That is why if needed, and ultimately how to get all that permanent ink off
you have never heard of Phil Jay. your flesh. The only other “problem” some might have is that the
He works, and when you work you get good at your craft. The “height” of the rise is only about the width of a Sharpie itself.
DVD teaches you how to do a classic force and a touch force, and The effect, however, is so startling and flat-out cool that it really
offers tips that only come from doing them over and over again. doesn’t matter. Heck, it might not even matter if you get the card
The DVD has a fair amount of actual footage of Mr. Jay doing it wrong.
for real people in the real world. I think this is really good money The one suggestion I’m surprised no one mentioned anywhere
spent for one of the most important moves one can learn in card on Rizer (probably for legal and demographic reasons) is the one
magic. way I could conceive performing this effect for myself: actually
get the image tattooed on your arm. You lose the immediacy of
Rizer DVD apparently creating the drawing right in front of the audience,
By B. Smith and Eric Ross but imagine rolling up your sleeve to reveal an actual, permanent
Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies inked-in-the-flesh tattoo, and making a card rise up out of that.
Price $30.00 Whether or not you follow up with a belly-dancing mermaid or a
chorus or three of “Lydia the Tattooed Lady” is up to you. I can’t
Review by Antonio M. Cabral recommend this trick to everyone, but holy cow, is it ever a great
idea. Kudos, gentlemen.
Rizer takes dead aim at the street magic
crowd, and, with any luck, it’ll succeed. Laws of Attraction DVD
Martin Lewis’s Cardiographic is un- By Shoot Ogawa
doubtedly a classic. Now imagine Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies
being able to do it without the Price $35.00
pad. Imagine being able to do it
on your own bare skin, without Review by Antonio M. Cabral
surgery. That’s Rizer.
B. Smith and Eric Ross came up The trick explained on Shoot Ogawa’s Laws of Attrac-
with the idea independently, and then tion is an interesting example of how an “effect” can be widely
got their heads together to come up open to interpretation. When I first saw the DVD box copy that
with this ultra-accessible, killer piece of discussed how Shoot’s technique will allow you to “magnetize

AUGUST 2011 65
any object,” I expected a suspension-type effect along the lines of V2F 2.0 DVD
the Magnetized Cards. Laws of Attraction isn’t that kind of effect. By G
Shoot Ogawa’s techniques will allow you Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies
to create a very nice illusion of Price $30.00
various objects being attracted
to each other as if magnetized. Review by Antonio M. Cabral
However, to present this as a
showpiece of its own would V2F 2.0 makes a very interesting claim in its ad copy: “While
be like forgoing Cigarette everyone else is still doing card to wallet with their expensive
Thru Quarter in favor of the gaffed wallet, you can advance to the next level with V2F 2.0.” The
old Cups and Balls business in cost of this DVD is $30. My card-to-wallet wallet, a Tony Miller
which you penetrate the bottom Hipshot Wallet, costs $40. I suppose in this economy ten dollars
of the cup with the wand. can make all the difference (ignoring the
The technique at work is a com- fact that you’re spending money on
bination of some clever sleight of hand, the card tricks at all), but this claim
use of sound, and good old-fashioned mime. In still raises my eyebrows
many places, this looks very good. In a couple of places, it looks – particularly so in light
amazing – in a few others, not so much. The DVD is an hour long, of what the “next level”
and Shoot covers myriad possibilities for making things stick to appears to be.
other things and then pulling them apart. The explanations are V2F 2.0 (the “V2F”
very thorough – perhaps more than they need be in some places. stands for Visual Vanish
And after an hour, you might start to feel like you get the drift Fantasy) makes a lot of si-
already. That’s a good thing to keep in mind. multaneous claims. On the one
I’ve never seen Shoot Ogawa perform this in person, but the hand, it claims to be an amazing
DVD gives the impression that you could perform a whole routine visual vanish of a playing card. On
of these demonstrations amidst claims of “magnetism.” In my the other, it claims to be an amazing
opinion, that would be a mistake. There’s no build or escalation; signed card to any impossible location you
you just keep sticking things together and pulling them apart. can think of. Which is it? Well, it’s an amazing visual
Not only does the repetition wear thin, but someone’s bound to vanish, if by that you mean “pretty good color change.” And it’s
ask you to leave the two things stuck together without holding an amazing signed card to any impossible location, if by that you
them together. You know, like a suspension. And with these tech- mean “card fold, after which, with the card securely in finger
niques, you can’t. One solution is to not sell the effect very hard, palm, you can load it wherever you like.” And it is, in fact, both of
or not so hard that it can’t support the weight of its own claims. those things at the same time.
On the other hand, if you do some kind of suspension effect with The video quality is very good on this DVD, but the instruc-
an invisible thread or something like Gary Plants’s beautiful Mag- tions follow what I fear is becoming a trend in magic DVDs: the
netized Cards, and you throw in some of these bits in or around hands demonstrate while the instructions appear as captions along
one of those tricks – ah, then you have something. Or you could the bottom of the screen. If this goes any further, I half expect
use these techniques to support a spurious claim of using “trick to have to follow a bouncing ball to learn the next hot move; the
magnetic” coins before going into a Coins Across routine to upside, I suppose, will be that no one will be able to complain that
explain how the coins jump to be next to each other. Maybe. (I the DVD crowd doesn’t read. I’ll also point out that if you’re going
wouldn’t recommend it if you actually use magnetic coins in your to produce a DVD on the cheap, using a standard iMovie/iDVD/
coin work.) But by itself, the illusion – while again it’s very good iWhatever menu screen is a dead giveaway. But you should have
– doesn’t hold up (hah!). no problem learning the technique from this DVD.
Which brings me to yet another observation on the “one- G, the creator of V2F 2.0, makes the vanish look very pretty.
trick DVD” phenomenon: is it worth spending $35 on what is in And when it is performed that well, it’s a very disarming
essence a gag? I’m not calling it a gag derogatorily, either. It’s vanish – it almost looks like you’re erasing the card from one of
a very good, magical-looking gag. It’s a useful gag, very worth those magnetic drawing toys. Unfortunately, the move is built
doing. But it’s still a gag, like the aforementioned Cups and Balls backwards: it starts off looking very open and ends cozier than
business of making the cups penetrate one another or making the I’d like. A better picture of the card vanishing completely would
wand penetrate the cups. There’s a difference between those types end with the hand doing the “erasing” to be open and obviously
of illusions and the kind that drive their point home hard, leaving empty, which could happen here with a little more development,
an undeniable feeling of having seen something that shouldn’t be. but doesn’t as is.
If you can get anyone to buy hook, line, and sinker that these bits The problem with any extremely direct method like this one
on their own add up to “magnetism,” you might want to book is that the secret workings of the trick follow the same path as
them into the act, because at that point they’re the entertainment. the audience’s attention. You’re doing everything directly in front
I’m not sure what the answer is. Some performers will think of their eyes and hoping no one puts two and two together. And
that the bits and techniques on this DVD are worth the price, and while there are other similar “under your nose” vanishes/changes,
find all sorts of places to use them. Others, like me at the beginning, the best ones are quicker and more startling. V2F 2.0 is a very
will be expecting a suspension effect and be disappointed. I can’t deliberate, slow visual effect that invites the audience to stare at it.
heavily endorse Laws of Attraction because it falls short of my When you invite your audience to stare and wonder for a long time,
expectations. But I can’t condemn it just because it’s not a suspen- unless you’re doing a really thorough job of covering your tracks,
sion effect; that feels like saying “Don’t buy this sandwich, it’s not don’t be surprised if someone comes up with an answer. That’s not
a car!” Let the buyer, at the very least, be informed. to say it can never work, but a more standard color change would

66 M-U-M Magazine
offer a cleaner vanish, and after they’re really convinced the card fans of peek wallets (you know who you are), or for someone
has disappeared, while you’re directing attention to their shoe or looking for an entrée into the fascinating world of mentalism.
wherever, a standard card fold would take care of the rest. Strong
misdirection might seem boring from a mechanical standpoint, Devastation Trick with DVD and props
but there’s no denying how well it works. By Wayne Dobson
While V2F 2.0 might have its problems as a vanish, it makes Available from: www.jbtvusa.com
for a very effective appearance of a card, an idea offered here as Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies
V2Ambitious, an ending for an Ambitious Card routine. This idea Retail Price $40.00
has some very clever extra thinking involved, and is arguably the
real use for the move. The other routines offered are good but Review by Jamie Salinas
unremarkable, because once you’ve got the card folded, whether
or not you load the card in a shoe or a wallet or a ham sandwich is For some strange reason, I am
almost academic. G’s Card under Wallet routine is a good one, but drawn to leather magic wallets. I
again unremarkable given all the really strong card-under-the-box have owned many different ones,
routines already in print. but I only keep a few. Devastation
Despite all my reservations about the technique, the audience is a named-card to wallet effect that
footage shows some very satisfying reactions to the V2F 2.0 used has been created by one of our most
as a vanish. And again, done well it’s very pretty. If you’re a card respected and creative performers,
nut into color changes, it’s worth playing around with. I’m not Wayne Dobson. Is this one a keeper
convinced it’s worth $30, though. for me? Keep reading.
The routine begins with the
Ultra Telethought Wallet II Prop magician recounting a dream that
By Chris Kenworthy featured the spectator. In the dream,
Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies the spectator named a card, so the
Price $65.00 helper is asked to name a card. The
magician exclaims that was the same card named in the dream.
Review by Danny Archer The magician then shows a pack of cards that are double-backed
cards. The magician removes two double-backed cards, calling
This an updated version of a peek them Jokers, in spite of it being very clear that the two cards are
wallet that Chris Kenworthy had on double-backed cards. The two “Jokers” are placed in a wallet.
the market a few years ago. The The double-backed deck then instantly changes into a deck of
basic effect is that a card is removed regular (and different) cards, in new-deck order. As the magician
from the wallet and an assisting points out that all of the cards are in order, it is seen that the named
spectator writes something down card is missing. The two double-backed cards that were referred
on it (symbol, drawing, word, etc.), to as Jokers are removed from the wallet and they are found to
after which the spectator inserts have Joker faces on each card. In addition to the two (now real)
the face-down card into an outside Jokers, there is an extra card in the wallet. The card is removed
pocket on the wallet. The performer and shown to be the named card that is missing from the pack.
opens the wallet to remove another The effect is very straightforward and is fairly simple to
card and he/she successfully dupli- perform. You are supplied with the specially printed cards and the
cates the thought-of information. special wallet that allow you to perform this miracle. Mark Mason
The wallet is nicely made in provides the demonstration as well as the explanation portion of
leather with brass corners and the video. Mark does a very good job in both the performance and
can certainly pass for a standard instructional segments. The trick resets in ten seconds. Mark also
business card case. It also comes with some blank card stock includes his handling for the wallet.
and some cards printed with the words ESP Laboratory. These The wallet is well made and very thin, with a simple design
included cards are slightly wider than a standard business card. in black leather. The quick reset makes this a very good trick for
What makes this wallet different from the standard peek wallet is the strolling magician. The magical effect of having a deck of
how the peek is gained. Without giving away too much, there is double-backed cards transforming into regular cards and having
a special surface that appears to be a blank surface, but through the named card in the wallet is very strong. Finger flickers will be
which the performer can secretly see the written info. This is very disappointed, as there is none of that here. The routine is great for
cool. the beginning magician as well as the seasoned pro.
On the Internet boards, there is talk about using the wallet in So will I add this wallet to my collection of keepers? If you
a different fashion than is explained in the two pages of text and have not already figured it out yet, this wallet, as well as the
photos that accompany the wallet, to gain the glimpse without routine, is a keeper. Priced at $40 including the leather wallet,
having to open the wallet. I can see that this can be accomplished special gaffed cards, and instructional DVD, this a very good buy!
easily by folding the wallet in a different direction than it comes
in the package. Double Back Trick with DVD
As with any peek wallet, thought must be given to how and why By Jon Allen
the information needs to be written down in the first place. There Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies
is no real presentation or routine included with the wallet; the in- Price $18.00
structions cover the handling of the wallet and the all important
glimpse. This is a fun utility device, and is a must-have for any Review by Norman Beck

AUGUST 2011 67
 This is a packet trick that is but can be quickly read by the performer. The look of the cards is
a transposition. The performer a wonderful departure from playing cards, and the stock is thick
shows four cards, for example and deliberately lacks the air cushion finish of standard playing
two Fives and two Kings. card decks. The cards are cased in a white cardboard box with the
The two pairs change places PLF testing cards phrase and a very official company logo. This
after the fashion of The Last box is packaged inside of a plastic box of its own, which can be
Trick of Dr. Jacob Daley. The used separately or in conjunction with the cardboard container.
key word here is clean. You start The packaging reminded me of testing kits that I have seen being
and end dirty, but it looks clean used by psychologists who test children.
– very, very clean. Dean Dill says it is PLF has even gone to the effort of creating a Web site for
his favorite packet trick, as does another top their imaginary testing company. This means that if a spectator
performer in the Philly area, who does it at every walk- Googles the name on the back of the cards, they will be taken to
around gig. The trick is easy to learn and the DVD instructions an official-looking Web site that will further confirm the cards as
are very clear. It comes with the necessary gaffed cards. At this scientific tools. Mentalism and magic literature has produced a
price it is well worth the money. wealth of effects that can be effectively exploited with these cards.
A book is included with the PLF ESP Collection set and is also
PLF ESP Collection Set Book and ESP Cards sold separately for $35. In addition to several strong effects, the
By PLF book contains the necessary psychology and vocabulary needed
Available exclusively in the USA from: www.Tannens.com to portray the effects as experiments and not tricks. It is well
Price $64.95 written, clearly illustrated, and required reading for those who
want to ratchet up their believability. I recommend you buy the set
Review by Joshua Kane and an extra deck while they are available. And sshhh... remember
to keep the secret.
When I first started performing
mentalism, I bought several sets of the Personal FX DVD and Gimmick
actual ESP/Zener testing cards used by By Wayne Dobson and Mark Mason
Dr. Rhine of Duke University. They were Available from Mark Mason Magic
about the size of bridge-size playing Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies
cards and had a one-way back design that Price $25.00
was composed of a field of white stars on
a blue background. While the scientists Review by Norman Beck
may have been serious, the cards looked
as if they were designed for a kid’s magic I will give full disclo-
set. They were also finished and sized in sure here: I am friends with
such a way as to permit them to be used both Mark and Wayne, and
like regular playing cards, which, unfor- I like them both very much
tunately, tempted many performers into doing card tricks with an as magicians and dealers.
ESP testing deck. The cards used to be packaged in a little blue Personal FX is a mental
box that actually had an image of Duke University’s testing lab effect in which you remove
on the cover. This added an air of authenticity. Over time, the a card case and place three
studies were abandoned, the cards and case went out of print, and of your business cards
when the cards were reissued just for magicians, the box was gone on the table. An assisting
and the backs either retained the star pattern or were given clarity spectator places his cell
as magic shop props as they were printed with backs to match phone on one card and his
regular playing cards. I dropped ESP card routines from my rep- keys on another. The last
ertoire and boxed up the related books. card goes back in the case.
Recently, Tannen’s magic shop in NYC has become the When the cards are turned over, all three match the choices made
exclusive distributor in the USA for a series of well crafted by the spectator. The instructional DVD is well done, and the
mentalism products produced by a company in Germany that routine is easy to learn. I like this very much. This is a good buy
values secrets. They clearly want to make these cards available at $25.
to performers while at the same time taking great pains to keep
them secret from the public. The question is: can magicians keep Postcards Trick with DVD and gimmick
the secret? So long as the actual name of the product is not posted By Hernan Macagno
in reviews that are stored electronically or on Internet forums that Available from: www.tangomagic.com
can be Googled, the secret should remain intact. This is why I Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies
refer to the company as PLF. I request that you do the same. Price $45.00
The first product of theirs I picked up is a new version of the
classic ESP cards. You receive two packets of twenty-five cards. Review by Payne
One set has blue backs with white print that clearly states the actual
PLF company name and the phrase “testing cards.” The second I recently attended a lecture by Doc Eason during which he
set has white backs and blue print. Each set has the standard five wisely advised that one should never start a set with a card trick
designs printed on the front of the cards along with a set of five ad- – a sentiment I wholeheartedly agreed with. Nothing is as poten-
ditional gaffed cards. The markings on the back can bear scrutiny, tially off-putting as walking up to someone, cards in hand, to ask

68 M-U-M Magazine
if they’d like to see a trick. Even though you could be the greatest or take it out of your performing case at the start of the effect is
entertainer in the world, you can all too easily end up looking like demonstrated. The reset for this trick is quite quick and can easily
their weird Uncle Charlie who foists unwanted card tricks upon be done in a matter of seconds, making this a good little opener
them at holiday gatherings. Deserved or not, there is a certain for the table-hoppers out there. All in all, I think this is a clever
social stigma associated with the purveyors of card tricks. prop that lots of performers will have a fun time using. My only
There are of course, as there always are, dissenters to this complaint is that the card box should have been laminated to help
theory. The loudest of these are, of course, the weird Uncle Charlie it stand up to the wear and tear it’s going to get.
types who enjoy inflicting
the latest card trick they’ve Starlight Trick
extracted from the periodi- By Kreis-magic.com
cals on the unsuspecting. Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies
But other voices that can Price $20.00
be heard in the cacophony
of protest: those magicians Review by Norman Beck
who only have card tricks
in their repertoire. This The basic idea behind Starlight
puts them into a bit of a is that you can, for lack of a better
quandary. If one shouldn’t term, make a spectator into an
open with a card trick, but instant stooge. A card is selected and
the only tricks you know returned to the deck, after which a
how to do are with cards, second card is handed to a spectator,
then what is one to do? who is then able to figure out what
There is a simple way to card was selected by spectator
reconcile Doc’s advice with number one. The trick card looks
the “all cards” repertoire. Make the first trick you do a vehicle normal from a distance, but the
to produce the deck of cards you are going to use for your per- second spectator will know the card
formance. There have, over the years, been many novel ways to selected by the first spectator when
accomplish this feat. One of the more interesting ways was found he holds the card up to the light.
in an early Paul Harris book. It was called Dehydrated Deck. I have a couple of problems with
The basic effect was to magically remove a deck of cards from a this. First, the assisting spectator
previously folded-up card box. More recently, David Regal came doesn’t know what he is looking for, which makes the gimmick
up with Sudden Deck. This involved producing a deck of cards less than perfect, and second, there are lots of better, cheaper ways
from a previously shown empty and dismantled card case. This to give the information to the spectator. Not recommended.
had the advantage of being a lot easier to do than Dehydrated
Deck, because no difficult sleight of hand was required. But it Don’t Blink Trick with DVD
had the weaknesses of not being examinable (you could hand out By Salvador Sufrate
the folded up Dehydrated Deck at the beginning of the effect) and Distributed by Murphy’s Magic Supplies
containing a topological incongruity at one point of the routine: Price $40.00
the box is shown to have an extra, third side during one of the
displays. Review by Norman Beck
Hernan Macagno’s Postcards from Tango Magic is the latest
foray into the concept of extracting a deck of cards from a previ- The basic effect is
ously folded up or flattened box. And it’s a pretty good one to simple, you show one
boot. It’s very much akin to Eugene Burger’s Shotglass Surprise, card and it changes in
because the envelope containing the flattened card box can be your hands with no
freely passed around before the effect. The envelope is opened funny moves; or, you
and the card box removed. It can be shown on both sides and very can place the card in
freely handled by the performer. The envelope is then discarded, your mouth, turn away
the card box folded up, and a complete deck of cards is then from the audience, and
removed from the box. when you turn back the
The box can be set on the table as it will retain its shape and card has changed. The
pass a cursory visual inspection. However it cannot be passed out video looks great, but
for perusal. Unless you want your audience to know how the trick (and the “but” is quite
is done. But there is really no need for it to be examined. After all, large) you need to know
the spectators have just held the envelope containing the box and several things about this
they saw for themselves that it in no way could conceal a deck of project before you buy
cards. it. My problem is that telling you what the problems are would
The angles are no worse than Sudden Deck, and multiple give away the secret. Let me just say that I do not think you can
handlings are taught on the DVD. It is best performed at a table but do this up close, and you have restrictions on what you wear when
there are a couple of stand-up variants shown as well. However, performing it. You also stand a good chance of being caught after
most of the stand-up variations require a jacket and the ability the fact. I will say it looks great on video. I won’t tip the method,
to secretly get a deck of cards out of your pocket and into play. but let’s just say that you have to dress like Max Maven. I fear that
A method where you simply walk on stage holding the envelope this will be of limited utility.

AUGUST 2011 69
Mental Epic Trick
Available from your favorite dealer Joining Forces
Distributed by D. Robbins By Debbie Leifer
http://www.ezmagicrobbins.com S.A.M. Veterans Entertainment Chair
Price $22.00

Review by Payne “Joining Forces – Taking Action To Serve

America’s Military Families” is the powerful initia-
All I can say tive spearheaded by First Lady Michelle Obama
about this “prop”
is that you get what and Dr. Jill Biden to support and honor America’s
you pay for, which service members and their families. The initiative
in this case isn’t focuses on employment, education, and wellness,
much at all. For while engaging in a comprehensive effort to raise
a start, a proper
Mental Epic is awareness about the service, sacrifice, and needs of
supposed to look military families.
like a chalkboard I’m sure all magicians will agree that the relax-
or a more contem- ation, humor, and entertainment derived from
porary erasable
white board. This “prop,” to use the term loosely, more our art is a joy to engage in while recovering from
closely resembles a cafeteria tray than it does the pre- injury, illness, or trauma. Imagine how appreciative
viously mentioned two items. To say it is shoddily put an audience of men and women who have served
together is to insult all other things that are shoddily put our nation would be to receive the gift of a magical
together. The frame is constructed out of miserably thin
vacu-formed plastic reinforced with shiny black tape. performance while confined to a Veterans Hospital
The areas given to you to write in are painfully small, or Veterans Nursing Home. When you attend your
about two and a half inches square. This combined with next assembly meeting, please consider making
the fact that they are also recessed about a half an inch the suggestion that your members get together
makes writing anything in them cumbersome.
There are three doors to cover the performer’s predic- to donate a performance at your local/regional
tions, which on the outset look handy. But the way they Veterans Hospital!
are constructed (tape hinges) keeps them from staying Our Veterans Entertainment program, also
open on their own when you do the final reveals at the known as “Operation Hocus Pocus,” is described
end of the trick. So you’re left showing that prediction
one matches and then closing the door; then moving on in great detail on the Web at www.magicsam.
to prediction two, and then again closing that door before com/VHSP-home.asp. You’ll find pages on How
moving on to revealing prediction three. This makes for To Volunteer, Tips and Guidelines, and a list of VA
a less than impressive final display of all three matching Hospitals across the U.S. that your assembly can
predictions at the conclusion of the effect. The visual
image that the audience is left with is that you got one contact to donate performances.
prediction correct. Add about thirty-five bucks to what You’ll also see an image of the impressive
you’d typically pay for this thing and you can pick up Veterans Program Lapel Pin you’ll be sent to
Paul Romhany’s excellent book The Mental Epic Com- celebrate the performance you’ve so generously
pendium (reviewed in the July issue), which has many
variations on this effect. All of which look a hundred donated. Many of our members and officers wear
times better than this prop. The only positive thing I that pin with pride.
can mention about this piece of apparatus is that it does We’ve got good company! Major League
come with an erasable whiteboard pen that you can use Baseball, Sesame Street, AOL, The American Heart
for something else. Avoid this poorly made prop like the
plague. 
Association, McGraw-Hill Publishing, YMCA, Best
Buy, Intel, Wal-Mart, and the U.S. Tennis Associa-
tion are among the diverse corporations and or-
If you wish to have your product ganizations supporting veterans and the Joining
reviewed please send it to: Forces program this year. So, borrowing a phrase
from one of those popular organizations, let’s all
Bill Duncan “step up to the plate” and hit a home run this year
by donating our time and talents to entertain our
P.O. Box 50562 veterans confined to hospitals and nursing homes
Bellevue, WA 98015-0562 across America. 

70 M-U-M Magazine
Spotlight On... Neil Tobin
Neil is President of Assembly 3. He has instituted a fund-raising séance each October and
acts as the Necromancer who performs the séance. He sets
up the room, does the blackout, and requests club volun-
teers to help.

Neil started an annual magic competition held at

Chicago’s Navy Pier. This free show was created
to bring magic to the attention of the general
public, and up to twenty area magicians take part.
The first-, second-, and third-place winners each
receive a specially made wand. The first-place
winner receives a show contract. Neil publicizes
the show, lines up community judges, requests
club volunteers, and emcees the competition.
– Darlene Bull

AUGUST 2011 71
 THEORY & ART OF MAGIC
LARRY HASS

shopping and someone you meet says, collection of tricks – one that is carefully
“You are a magician…?” So what are you composed for flow, texture, build, and
going to perform? Remember, it comes up closure. Think the close-up room at the
by surprise and your performance needs to Magic Castle. Think the maestro René
happen fast and it has to be fast; it is too Lavand or Al Goshman. Time to read
slow to take out a pack of cards and start Fitzkee.
shuffling. You need something direct and 5. Stand-up. Whether you call it
fun, something that “makes friends” rather “stand-up,” “parlor,” or “cabaret,” this
What Are Your Venues? than shows off or “puts off.” I never leave venue requires that you stand and deliver

O
the house without one or two rock-solid for up to about eighty people. Visibil-
ne of the things philosophers pieces of greeting magic in my pockets – ity may be an issue, so the magic should
do is pay close attention to words with coins or bills, or small objects I can happen vertically and at chest level, not on
and concepts. We do this because give away as gifts. a tabletop. Because you are so close and
it is easy for ways of thinking and talking 2. Walk-Around Magic. When you there is no “moat,” you should break the
to lead us astray. And if those misleading are engaged to perform walk-around at a fourth wall early and often. Also, audience
terms become a habit of thought, then we cocktail party or reception, your perfor- members will join you up front and need
have a problem on our hands: we end up mance needs to be more formal: a series to be managed. Some permutations may
missing the true complexities of things, of mini-shows – each one with some kind feel casual and loose, but unless you are
which often leads to flawed or confused of beginning, middle, and end. You need part of an ensemble, you need a formal
action. strategies for “breaking in” to groups and show. Typically, you will need to adapt to
It is in this spirit that I want to “bailing out” if one is unruly or unrespon- existing light sources and bring your own
consider the common way magicians talk sive. Reset is crucial. Flash is excellent. music. Think John Carney.
about their venues and styles. If you ask Getting people involved, talking, and 6. Platform Magic. Over about eighty
magicians today what kind of magic they laughing is outstanding. people, stand-up magic becomes platform
perform, you are likely to hear, “Oh, I Quick aside: Do you see how different magic. That is, you are (or should be) on
perform close-up magic,” or “I perform walk-around is from greeting magic? Do an elevated platform and your magic has
mostly stand-up magic, but some stage you see how the general category “close- to play much larger. (For example, the use
magic, too.” Indeed, “close-up, stand-up, up” ignores these crucial differences? Do of playing cards is highly limited in this
and stage” have become the fairly standard you see how having only greeting magic venue.) Audience interaction becomes
ways magicians describe their venues and for a walk-around gig would limit your more difficult because of stairs, distance,
styles. success? The needs and goals are different; and visibility. You may have lights and
But is this adequate? One obvious you would fall short of what the venue sound, but you are unlikely to have an
problem is that it is essentially gibberish to requires. assistant or wings so the whole show
clients who aren’t magicians; you always 3. After-dinner Table Magic. At a needs to be set before you start. This is
have to add two or three sentences to dinner party or restaurant with non-ma- unquestionably a formal show and needs a
explain what “close-up” and “stand-up” gicians, the entrée has been eaten, dessert strong opener and killer closer. Think Paul
magic are. The bigger problem is that this has been served, and things are winding Potassy and Jay Marshall.
classification is so general and abstract it down. So what are you going to do to 7. Stage Magic. The whole smear:
isn’t even true. bring down the house? What is required lights and sound, wings and assistants,
The fact is that there are at least seven here is a very particular kind of magic. technology and the staff to run it. I could
different venue-styles of magic and each It has to be incredibly strong, not hack, go on, but you get the idea and know the
one of them has its own distinct character, lame, or gimmicky. It is probably one names.
conditions, and challenges. If we don’t see piece, not two. It has to feel informal and There you go: seven venues of magic,
this clearly, if we don’t understand each impromptu, even if it is not. It is excellent not three. And I haven’t even gotten into
of them precisely, it is easy to select the to use playing cards or common objects TV, radio, or street magic. But already
wrong material and easy for our perfor- that are lying around. All night long people with this more detailed thinking in place,
mances to be weak and unsuccessful. have been thinking about the fact you are we can get some good work done. Ask
My goal this month is to briefly discuss a magician; this is the big moment. Think yourself: in which of these venues do you
what I see as seven main venues for live Eugene Burger, Juan Tamariz, Eddie have real expertise? For which ones do you
magic. The fact is I could write a whole Fields, Johnny Thompson – masters of the need new material and better presenta-
column about each of them, and there are form. tions? Is there one or more that you want to
certainly more than seven. But I want to 4. Formal Close-up. Here you have become better at? What specific course of
get the conversation going and start to some distance, so it is time for servantes, study and skill development do you need
show how many vitally important details loads, switches, and lapping. You might to take the next steps?
our current three-tier system ignores. stand up for part of it. You may have some In magic and life more precise thinking
1. Greeting Magic. This venue happens lighting; you might play music. But the brings better action! 
on the fly. You are attending a party or heart of it is you need a real show, not a

72 M-U-M Magazine
 The Ta x Magic ian by St e ve Snyde r
B us i n e s s a n d Ta x A dvi c e fo r t h e S e l f-E mp l o y e d E n t e r t a i n e r

Which of My Convention
continental breakfast. Nothing to deduct there – it’s
free. When Liz and I go to conventions, the free con-

Expenses is Deductible?
tinental breakfast is actually our preferred method of
breakfast. And while we’re at it, we also pick up a
few pieces of fruit or granola bars to snack on later.
Last month I wrote about the joys of going to a con- But other hotels do not provide such amenities and
vention. I hope you went, or are still planning to go to you are on your own. Or you may prefer to eat at the
one. I can’t say it enough times – it’s worth the trip. hotel and charge the meals to your room. Meals are a
This month, I’d like to discuss your expenses going tricky deduction. Generally, meals are limited to a 50%
to and during your convention experience. As always, deduction. The thought being that you could have
good recordkeeping now will avoid the headaches later. eaten at home. Not likely since you’re many miles away.
Let’s begin with your registration. Your registration I usually deduct the full cost of my breakfast on those
fees are one hundred percent deductible. I’ll discuss the occasions when I have to purchase it. Not legal, but
deductibility of family members you may be bringing worth the risk. Lunch is always available at the hotel –
with you at the end of this article. somehow. But if you do need to go out, keep in mind
Next comes your trip. How did you get to the conven- the 50% rule. Dinner is usually eaten with friends from
tion? Did you fly or drive? If you flew, all your expenses the convention, or with my wife. We usually choose
are deductible: the trip to the airport, the flight, getting something a bit nicer than a local fast food place. So,
from the airport to the hotel. How did you get to the here I follow the 50% rule.
airport? Taxi? That’s deductible, including the tip. Did Let’s talk about family members. As I mention earlier,
a friend drive you? You can claim the mileage and my wife Liz usually accompanies me. Although she
reimburse your friend later. Did you drive yourself and does not perform with me, she is my consultant. She
leave your car in long-term parking? You can deduct know better than anyone else, what effects are me,
that expense, too. and which ones I need to avoid no matter how much I
Perhaps you live close enough to drive to the conven- whine, beg, or plead. As my consultant, her part of the
tion. If you drove your own vehicle you are limited to the trip is also deductible.
mileage allowance or your actual expenses, depending All our children are grown and gone, so we never
on which method you use for your tax return. As of July have to deal with them. You, on the other hand, may
1, the allowance is 55½ cents per mile. be bringing other family members – depending on the
Maybe you drove a long distance, spending a night convention location and what other stuff there is for
or two in a motel. The motel expenses are deductible, your family to do. Their expenses are not deductible.
too. I’ll discuss meals later. None of them! You cannot claim your ten-year-old son
Now that you’ve arrived, we can deal with your hotel as a consultant. However, if your children are truly a
bill. Your hotel bill is completely deductible. However, part of your act, performing with you as a regular part
keep away from the snack bar. Not only is it expensive, of your show, then you may deduct their expenses as
but meals are limited. However, using the snack bar indicated above.
would be included on your hotel bill. So if you must That about covers all the expenses I can think of in
use it, try not to get caught if you decide to deduct it. conjunction with what I hope was an experience of
Better yet, stop at a local Wal-Mart type store and buy a lifetime. If I left anything out, or if you still have a
whatever snacks you need for your room. Hey, the ice question or two, write to me, call me, or if you see me
is free! at a convention, just come up and ask me.
While at the convention you just happen to wander Whatever you do, whatever you bought, wherever
into the dealer’s room. Who could blame you? All those you ate; keep all your receipts. 
effects are calling your name, a temptation much too
hard to resist. Anything you purchase should be de- Steve Snyder has a BS in Accounting and an
ductible as supplies or equipment. If it’s a big-ticket MBA. Let him put his knowledge to work for
item, you may want to deduct it under Section 125. you. Send business or tax questions to him at:
I don’t believe in depreciating my assets if I can write thetaxmagician@centurylink.net. Please put “M-U-M
them off. After all, I had to pay for them all at once; question” in the subject line. Steve is also the
why not deduct them all at once? author of several books, all of which are available at:
Let’s talk about meals. Some hotels provide a free www.thetaxmagician.com.

AUGUST 2011 73
 I’VE BEEN THINKIN’
NORMAN BECK

dirt, I don’t mean literally, but rather figu- to believe me.” I was finding it harder and
ratively; it is amazing what you can find harder to put the book down, and I didn’t
sometimes. My favorite digging spots are even know how much it was. I turned to
pawnshops, thrift stores, flea markets, the back cover and looked at the people
swap meets, estate sales, and used book who had said nice things about it and read:
stores. Used book stores have that smell “Don’t let the title fool you…It’s not just

I
of dust and old paper that makes me want about music. Victor’s book blended beauti-
have a couple of things to talk about to see what I can find. Powell’s Books in fully with my vocation…in fact, it applies
this month. I just read Michael Close’s Portland is a city block in size. Last week to everything we do in life. – Shano Pable,
review of The Berglas Effects in the I was in Rochester, New York, and I found Master Garden Designer.”
June issue of M-U-M, and a quote from The House of Guitars, a used music store. Okay, I bought the book and I’ve read
Berglas caught my eye: “The order of I have a big passion for music and books. I it. My quote would be: “Every close-up
importance in doing magic is personality, find many crossovers between the two. magician who has ever wanted to perform
presentation, effect, and method.” The big In digging around, I found a CD on in the real world must read this book.” I
mistake that many magicians make is that comedy that those in the magic world would put it in my must-read stack and,
they work on their magic and spend little or may find of interest. Topics included more important, I’d put it in my must-reread
no time on their personality. comedy magic, writing jokes, the enter- group. I have one bookcase that contains
I travel to Vegas a great deal; the idea tainer, likeability, ad-libbing, technique, my treasurers; Wooten’s book goes in that
of personality rings true in that city. You joke construction, acceptance, persona, case. The book is sort of a novel, but it is
would never just say, “I saw a magic show ego, rapport, and the list goes on and on. really about how to entertain with music.
in Vegas.” The more common statement The person who was giving the advice Watch a YouTube clip of Mr. Wooten and
would be, “I saw Mac King,” or “I saw was some guy named Carson. You can you will understand; words just won’t do
Penn & Teller.” The achievement of these probably find it; the title is Johnny Carson it. I was hooked; he had explained more
performers has less to do with tricks and on Comedy and it is from 1968. I thought about being an entertainer in thirty-five
methods and more to do with personality. that it was a very good find for eight bucks, short pages than I have seen written in
Many magicians who can do great but it wasn’t my best find of the day. all the magic books I have read, and he
sleight of hand cannot carry on a conver- You have to understand that I travel a never once talked about magic. I have
sation about anything that doesn’t involve great deal, and I read a lot; on this trip the since learned that he is also a magician; an
magic. Their time is spent working on books I brought had not lasted as long as article was written about him in Genii.
tricks and methods. The price they pay is I hoped. I needed something for the trip Let me quote some advice from the
too great and the amount of money they home. I saw a used paperback with a bad book:
make is too small. The only way to develop title. I sometimes will judge a book by its “You should never lose the groove in
an interesting personality is to do things cover or its title, and The Music Lesson: order to find a note.
and learn things that have nothing to do A Spiritual Search for Growth through “Your problem is this: You have been
with magic. Music did not seem like the type of book trying to tell your story with a bass guitar
The fact of the matter is that you can’t that would be much fun to read. The author instead of through it.
make it as a performer without a strong was some guy named Victor Wooten. The “The foundation of any building has to
personality. When someone tells me that bio on the back cover told me he was a be the strongest part; the life of a true bass
he saw a magician at a party, and I ask three-time Grammy award winning bass guitarist is the same.”
what his name was and he says, “Oh, I player and that he plays with Bela Fleck I will close with what Wooten says on
don’t remember his name, but he was real and the Flecktones. page 64: “Many musicians get caught up,
good,” it makes me sad. I once spoke to a As I put the book down, I noticed that way too caught up, in the technique, when
very good magic booker who told me that on the first page, in big red letters, were the it could benefit them to get caught up in
he hires guys whom the CEO would want words: “Warning! Everything in this book the music. Some of them measure their
to have come to the house and hang out may be wrong, but if so, it’s all right!” I accomplishments on whether they can do
with all afternoon. still had no idea what the book was about. a certain technique or not.” You can take
Unfortunately, on this subject I’m I wanted to put it down, to move on down this book and swap the word music for
probably (as Michael Close said in his to other books on the shelf, but that one the word magic and the advice will still
review) preaching to the choir. So, let’s sentence made me turn the page. I found: work. I think of Don Alan in this regard;
move on to something else. “Truth? What is truth? And by the way, if he didn’t have a ton of technique, but when
I like to dig in the dirt. By dig in the I always tell you the truth, you might start he performed he produced a lot of magic.

74 M-U-M Magazine
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AUGUST 2011 75
 THE DEAN’S DIARY
GEORGE SCHINDLER

to magicians from around the planet. sixteen years as producer of the S.A.M.
Although he spoke no foreign languages, convention shows; he also booked talent
he was a world traveler who did business for the FFFF convention and the Abbott’s
as a magic dealer and a consultant; he Get-Together. Hank, Brad Jacobs, David
never missed a trip to his favorite place, Goodsell, and I spent many conventions
Sindelfingen in Germany. His generosity together as “magic widowers,” while our
extended beyond all limits. Hank opened wives took over the registration desks as
doors for me, introducing me to foreign the “Unholy Four.”
Farewell Hank While you are reading this, I will
be at the Abbott’s Get-Together, where
When I became president of Parent Hank really shone. He never asked us
Assembly 1, I was called upon to to have dinner with him each evening
perform a Broken Wand ceremony for before the shows. He just said, “Look
a departed member. I had known him it! Meet me at the showroom at 5
as a fun performer, but never really got o’clock; we are eating at the Lakeside.”
to know the “man,” behind his tricks. On our way to visit our kids in
Since that time I have performed the Chicago, the Moorehouse home in
ceremony far too many times. As my White Pigeon was the “open house”
years with the Society add up, I have place to stop, have a Manhattan with
gotten to know many of the magicians Hank, and visit with Jackie. Hank was
who have left us, and each year the a good cook. Occasionally we’d stay
ritual gets harder to perform. I can over in the guest room, where more
recite the words by heart. magicians than there are cards in a
In July, I suddenly heard and felt deck have slept! We are not sure about
the words in my heart and not on my George Washington.
lips. “One we talked with yesterday There are too many wonderful
is silent today.” Hank Moorehouse, memories to share in this small space.
“who walked with us, has gone on At the Pittsburgh convention (which,
without us.” as I write this, is a week away) there
Our friendship lasted many years. Photo by Dale Farris will surely be a great sharing of
Each and every one of us around the globe Hank Moorehouse stories. He touched
has been touched by the real magic of this dealers and negotiating deals for me. Years many, many lives. “No greater tribute can
man. His unselfish giving and straightfor- ago, when I was producing shows, he could be paid to any man than this; to say that
ward manner endeared him to us all. His always be counted on to recommend great he lives on in the hearts of his friends.”
even temper never got out of hand. He acts. Hank Moorehouse will live forever in our
and Jackie have always been great hosts In his travels he found acts for his hearts. 

76 M-U-M Magazine
 CONFESSIONS OF A PAID AMATEUR
ROD DANILEWICZ

Finally, we get to the magic. The reason This is work the

we cleaned house in phase one can be at-
tributed to a statement Jamy Ian Swiss audience never sees,
includes in his lectures. He says, “If you
have been involved with magic for at least
five years, you do not need more tricks.
but it is necessary if
You will do better as a magician to perfect
you want to convey the

T
the performance of a few effects that are
his month we finish our inventory suitable for your stage personality.” He’s
section in the binder. We’ve orga- right. image of a professional
nized our tricks, but we carry a lot I fell into the same trap we all do at
more than that to each performance. Some the beginning, I’m always working for entertainer. Being
of us use a PA system or a backdrop cur- hometown folks. I needed new stuff for
tain. A few of us have our own lighting every show. That gets expensive, and you organized buys you
system or a portable stage. You should end up doing three hundred tricks poorly
have a separate list for all of the accessories
you take to each show.
instead of becoming an accomplished
entertainer. It took me almost six years
time, a commodity that
I have several tables, each designed for a
specific purpose. I’ll use my suitcase table
before I applied the brakes. Why is there
no twelve-step program for recovering
is generally unavailable
as an example. My permanent suitcase magicians?
table inventory includes a servante tray, When I had completed all of the steps at any price.
a close-up pad, and a folding lint brush described over the past few months, I
to keep it fresh. I carry rechargeable LED finally had a sense of direction. I now was All instantly resettable card and coin
lights with charger to illuminate the inside aware of what type of magician I could tricks have a separate inventory page.
of the case. become based on tricks I had kept that Finally, I have a page for filler material
I have a tool kit that includes nail were enjoyable to me. I had created a solid such as Tricks for Food or Grave Mistake.
clippers. Did you ever break a nail while foundation on which to build. Add pages as needed for things you do that
setting up? Those rubber squares that go On the surface it appeared I had a I don’t, such as large illusions or balloon
under table legs are handy for blocking larger problem. I was still performing for animals.
your wheels. Some outdoor stages are the same people, but now I had fewer tricks I have a personal problem with
not on level ground. One of those large to share with them. I solved the problem by magicians who are always on. In the April
gag cellphone magnets goes to every creating different shows with the materials issue of M-U-M, Bruce Chadwick said,
show, because that has become a common I had. Because I do mostly children’s “A good magician always has a trick in
problem. shows, I decided to create three different his pocket.” In his 1951 book Scarne’s
I always carry one of those old- shows for kids. Magic Tricks, John Scarne stated, “As a
fashioned movie clapboards as a A page for each went into the inventory magician you must always be on stage.” I
permanent out. Mine says: “Polish Wiserd section of the binder. I do a lot of repeat see the value in being able to do something
Magic Act, take 137.” When you can’t shows, so I have three years of “new” on the spot that might result in a booking,
think of a comeback, it always works. material. In year four you can repeat show but pulling sponge balls out of your pocket
Making fun of yourself keeps the audience number one. Most organizations have an seems a bit contrived.
on your side when something goes wrong. age cut off for attendees, so your audience My list of impromptu magic is
Not only are each of my tables inven- does change. composed of everyday items – for example,
toried in a similar manner in my master I did the same with shows for adults rubber bands or coins. Even doing a pre-
binder, a copy of the inventory is on an suitable for stage or parlor. I have two diction using the PATEO force with items
index card in each table. I refer to it both walk-around shows and one mentalism on the table can be effective. There are a
when packing for the show and when show, which is not done seriously. I don’t few innocent magic items you could ring
breaking down after the performance. feel comfortable having people come up in such as a Pen through Anything. I think
There is room on the card for notes, such after a show for a private reading concern- the magic is stronger when you’re put on
as “put fresh batteries in the system.” ing their upcoming heart surgery. I have the spot and can perform while seemingly
This is work the audience never sees, spoken with mentalists who have had that unprepared.
but it is necessary if you want to convey happen. Next month we finally get to the actual
the image of a professional entertainer. I have close-up shows, table magic tricks. We are, however, still a long way
It will enable you to concentrate on your shows, and even an inventory for from building a show that has entertain-
presentation instead of worrying if you impromptu performances. I have fourteen ment value. It’s time you began thinking
remembered to load your rabbit in the different shows I can do for local audiences about performing magic from your
Square Circle. Being organized buys before I have to repeat a performance customers’ point of view. 
you time, a commodity that is generally verbatim. This was accomplished after
unavailable at any price. reducing my inventory to just fifty tricks. Email me at polishwiserd@sbcglobal.net

78 M-U-M Magazine