* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Magic New Zealand * www.watson.co.nz/ezine.html * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Issue Number: #328 Date: Sunday 1st May 2005 Editor: Alan Watson www.magicianz.com www.Alan-Watson.com e-mail: AW@Alan-Watson.com ================================ Hi here is the latest news ================================   1. Editor's Message   2. Jay Marshall - Seriously Ill In Hospital   3. Update On SAM Convention Boston   4. SAM Boston Schedule Of Events   5. Bev Taylor Passed Away   6. April 29 Deadline For Convention Workshop Leaders   7. Las Vegas Magic - May   8. Kurtis Walker Memorial Service   9. Up The Amazon Without A Paddle   10. 'Magic-Fete 2005'   11. The Close-Up Magic Convention In Sussex   12. Dante's Leading Lady - Moi-Yo Miller (Montes) Turns 91   13. Magic Aid 2005   14. Ausses Are Heading To Thailand   15. Magic Show Conference   16. I.B.M. British Ring No. 25 Annual Convention   17. Setting Up A Lecture Tour Throughout Florida In Oct   18. Jimmy Stewart Magician When He Was Younger   19. Contaminated By L.A. Fire, Museum Magic Is Sealed Tight   20.  The Magic Circle At The Magic Castle   21. IBM Ring 81 - Florida   22. Million Dollar Silk Production - By: Jamie-G   23. The Amazing Orchante Saga   24. e-zine Archives   25. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice ------------------ 1. Editors Message ------------------- Message from Alan Watson - The Magic One Gene McCarthy tells me that Carol Roy has recently ungone an implant to help control the severe back pain.  The implant sends signals to the area of her spine that 'cuts off the pain'. We send Carol and Marvyn our love and best wishes. ----------------- Remember if you have any magic news drop me a line: AW@Alan-Watson.com ----------------- 2. Jay Marshall - Seriously Ill In Hospital ----------------- Message from Patrick Murphy I just returned from hospital. Jay was admitted about a week ago. He was not feeling well. At this point the doctors are not sure how much longer he has. They have him hooked up to all kinds of machines and they are feeding him through a tube. I am writing just to let you know what is happening. I feel you should hear it from us over here rather than through the grapevine. At this point whatever infection Jay had has spread through his body. I really don't know anymore than that. Jay's mind is sharp..BUT his body has grown weak. Even though he cannot speak..you can see how he feels in his eyes..well EYE at this stage of the game. He has pulled his tubes out a few times so he has been restrained. His grandson Chris has smuggled the cat "Bongo", named after Ali into the hospital a few times on Jay's request. ----------------- 3. Update On SAM Convention Boston ----------------- Message from Maria Ibanez Society of American Magicians National 2nd Vice President Have you heard? Beginning with this year's convention in Boston, registrants will be able to participate in special session, brainstorming, idea exchange groups which will be facilitated by some of the best in the field. So far this year the sessions include but are not limited to: Ventriloquism Special Session will be facilitated by George Schindler. Not much needs to be said about the man or his talent -- his name is synonymous with entertainment and talent. A published author of books which include Magic with Everyday Objects, Basic Balloon Sculpture, Ventriloquism, Presto and Magic for the Beginner, in addition to numerous articles for magic publications. He and Nina Schindler still do their "club-date" act. In 1985, they were curators of the magic exhibit at Lincoln Center for the S.A.M. Parent Assembly #1. He has lectured throughout the United States and in England, Canada, New Zealand and Australia. Restaurant Performing This session will be facilitated by Bruce Kalver. Discussion on getting work at a restaurant, what to do once you get it, and how to keep it. Bruce has been a restaurant performer for over 30 years. You can be sure there will be lots of tips and in-depth information and creative ideas for those looking to work in restaurants. Bruce Kalver, is the author of the best selling book Restaurant Portfolio as well as several other trade books. Kid's Shows & Creative Messages Marlene Clark will be the facilitator for this session. A family entertainer since 1982, Marlene has performed in most children's venues: birthday parties, library shows, in- and after-school programs, park & recreation departments, fairs and festivals, nursery schools, civic groups and hospitals. She has worked and trained with the Big Apple Circus Clown Care Unit and Starlight Foundation of New York (in-hospital entertainment) and performed for Special Wishes (similar to Make-A-Wish Foundation). She was ranked in 2003, by the Connecticut Association of Recreation and Parks among the top three children's performers in Connecticut. Marlene has won several awards for her performances. She is a Competent Toastmaster and has developed and taught several workshops for children and adults. The Art of Storytelling Magic Or performing magic with your storytelling, to be facilitated by (Merlina the Magician) Maria Ibanez. Maria has been a children's entertainer since 1981 and has always used storytelling with her magic. She is a member of the National Storytelling Network, the Florida Storytellers Association and the Miami Storytellers Guild. A very active performer, she has earned several awards for her work. She is a regular performer for the library system, school board, parks and recreation services as well as for private clients and events. The above is just a sampling of some of the special sessions which will be offered this year in Boston. If you haven't already done so, register today -- there are still many more surprises in store. Check the website www.magicsam.com regularly for updates -- George Schindler, SAM Publicist and Dave Xanatos, webmaster, are always surprising us with new information. ----------------- 4. SAM Boston Schedule Of Events ----------------- Message from George Schindler, SAM Publicist Tuesday, July 5 5.00-7.00pm         Early Registration 6.00-9.00pm         Early Bird Dealers Wednesday, July 6 8.00am-6.00pm       Registration Daily               Japanese Mysteries Exhibit Room Daily               Boston Assembly 9 Hospitality Area 8.30am              National Council Meeting 9.30am              Contestant Briefings 10.00am-12pm        Dealers Room Open/Dealer Shows 11.30am             Endowment Fund Meeting 1.30pm              Opening Ceremonies (Ballroom) immediately followed by S.A.M. University Master's Class: Joshua Jay Session One 2.00pm              YM General Leader's Meeting 2.30pm              Spouses' Welcome and Special Event 1.00pm-5pm          Dealers Room Open 2.00pm              Contest Judges' Meeting 4.00pm-6.00pm       Close Up Contests 5.00pm              (YM) Young Magicians Welcome and Scavenger Hunt Kick-off 8.00pm              Wednesday Gala Show: The "Nor'easter" Hits Boston! (Hancock Theatre) 9.30pm-11pm         Dealers Room Open 10.00pm-11.30pm     S.A.M. Special LATE NIGHT All-Star Lecture (Ballroom) Thursday, July 7 Daily               Japanese Mysteries Exhibit Room Daily               Boston Assembly 9 Hospitality Area 7.30am              Contest Judges' Meeting 8.30am-6pm          Registration 8.30am              Jr. Stage Contest (Ballroom) 9.30am              (YM) Young Magicians Lecture Series (#1) 10.00am-12 Noon     Dealers Room Open 10.30am-12 Noon     S.A.M. University Master's Class: Joshua Jay Session Two (Ballroom) 10.30am             (YM) Special Leader's Meeting with David Oliver 1.00pm-6pm          Dealers Room Open 1.30pm              (YM) Young Magicians Workshop 1.30pm-3pm          S.A.M. All-Star Lecture Series #3 (Ballroom) 3.30pm-5pm          S.A.M. All-Star Lecture Series #4 (Ballroom) 3.30pm              (YM) Meet the Stars Autograph Party 5.00pm              Magic Circle Reception-Members Only 5.30pm              Contest Judges' Meeting 8.00pm              Thursday Gala Show: People's Choice Senior Stage Contest (Hancock Theatre) 9.30pm              (YM) Kids Do Magic For Kids 1 (ages 12-16) 9.30pm              SAMTalk Forum 12 Midnight         Invisible Lodge (Members Only) Friday, July 8 Daily               Japanese Mysteries Exhibit Room Daily               Boston Assembly 9 Hospitality Area 8.30am-6pm          Registration 9.00am-10.30am      Close-Up Gala Blue Badges 10.00am-12.00pm     Dealers Room Open 11.00am-12.30pm     Close-Up Gala Green Badges 1.00pm-5pm          Dealers Room Open 1.30pm-2.30pm       "Stars of Tomorrow" Spectacular Stage Show (Ballroom) 3.00pm-4.30pm       S.A.M. All-Star Lecture Series #5 (Ballroom) 5.00pm              (YM) Kids Do Magic For Kids II (Ages 7-11) 5.30pm              Life Members Reception 8.00pm              Friday Gala Show: Mysteries of Japan (Hancock Theatre) 9.00pm-11pm         Dealers Room Open 10.00pm             S.A.M. LATE NIGHT All-Star Lecture Series #6 (Ballroom) Saturday, July 9 Daily               Japanese Mysteries Exhibit Room Daily               Boston Assembly 9 Hospitality Area 8.30am-Noon         Registration 9.30am              Contest Awards Ceremony (Ballroom) 10.00am-12pm        Dealers Room Open 11.00am-12.30pm     S.A.M. All-Star Lecture Series #7 (Ballroom) 11.00am             (YM) Young Magicians Lecture Series #2 1pm-5pm             Dealers Room Open (Dealers Close at 5 Final Call, not open after Gala show!) 1.30pm-3.00pm       S.A.M. All-Star Lecture Series #8 (Ballroom) 5.00pm              International Banquet 8.00pm              Saturday International Magic Gala Show (Hancock Theatre) 9.45pm              Closing Ceremonies and President's All-Convention Celebration (Ballroom) ----------------- 5. Bev Taylor Passed Away ----------------- Message from John Apperson National President Society of American Magicians Below is the information on Bev Taylor who passed away April 15, 2005 Magically John Apperson ----------------- Bev Taylor Beverly (Bev) Wilford Taylor, age 81, of Hermann, MO, died on April 15, 2005. Was a member of the 'Order Of Merlin - Excalibur', served as president of I.B.M. Ring One and as I.B.M. Territorial Vice-President, and was also a member of the S.A.M. In the late 1940's and early 1950's he owned and operated one of the most important magic companies in the United States - Town House Magic. Bev's interest in magic really blossomed while he was in high school, and he even became the president of a St. Louis magic club that was started at his school by Jack Lipincott. It was also at this time that he began building his own magic tricks in a workshop in his home. The summer after he graduated from high school, he built magic props for Will Lindhorst's Magic Den in St. Louis, and worked a night shift in the machine shop of a large manufacturing company. After a year in college, he was drafted in the summer of 1943 as a U.S. infantry soldier. For much of the time he was put in the Special Services to entertain the troops with his magic, but he did earn a Purple Heart fighting in the Battle of the Bulge in Germany. After discharge from the military in the early summer of 1946, Bev returned home to St. Louis. At this time, the owner of the St. Louis Magic Studio asked him to make a new release for the shop - the Bohleno Block Penetration. By the end of the summer, the magic shop owed Bev money and was going broke . . . so Bev took over the store! This began his career as a magic dealer, and also his association with Don Lawton. Don began working magic as a clerk for Will Lindhorst in St. Louis. He then worked at the St. Louis Magic Studio, and Bev kept him on as manager when he took over and renamed the company Town House Magic. For several years, Town House Magic moved from one location to another, finally settling at 1377 Union Blvd. In his spare time, Bev continued to pursue his engineering degree at Washington University. The Town House CHAT was the delightful monthly newsletter of Town House for almost four years. The first Town House CHAT was printed in the summer of 1947, with a distribution of less than 500. The CHAT was replaced in April of 1951 with the BUY LINES. There were almost 13,000 copies of the first issue of BUY LINES mailed, the largest mailing made by any magic dealer at the time. Town House Magic released over 100 effects and manuscripts, many from the best minds in magic at the time, including The Great Thompson's Comedy Medicine Pitch (George Thompson), Improved Westgate Bowl Production (Howard Westgate), Kornfidentially Yours (Karrell Fox), Jet Thought (J. G. Thompson, Jr.), Forgetful Freddie (Milbourne Christopher), Deluxe Visible Block Penetration and Top Start (Henry Bohlen), Card in Cigarette (Douglas Hood), The Allegro Wand (Joe Scott), and Jeffries Bunny Box (Gene Jeffries). Bev also released several of his own tricks and routines, such as Was My Face Red (color changing silk routine), Stage Size Pea Can, The Goof Ball (first set of bounce/no bounce balls), The Wolf Pack (delightful children's routine with large rabbit and wolf cards), Svengali Deck Routine, Comedy Routine with Signs, and the Improved Milk Pitcher (the first refillable pitcher). All Town House effects were selected for their workability and were noted for their complete instructions. The idea of issuing supplements with alternate methods of presentation also came to be the by-word of Town House. This lead to their motto: "Where Good Tricks Are Made Better". Some insight into his character came from the way he handled an effect of his entitled More-Yet. Bev introduced this item at the I.B.M. Convention held in Chicago in 1949. It was a lota bowl in the shape of a small plastic pitcher that held twice as much as the usual shot lota and yet looked smaller than many. The flow of liquid was under the magician's control at all times through a small hole in the handle. Although the principle used in the lota was quite old, the way this lota was capped was claimed as the invention of another dealer. Bev tried to buy rights or arrange royalties - but the other dealer would not agree to anything. Therefore, Bev took the More-Yet off the market! In addition to running the manufacturing end of Town House Magic, for two years Bev worked as an M.C. and magician for International Harvester. Every night a 5 person show would hit a different town throughout Missouri and Illinois. This ran about 8-9 months each year, 5 nights a week. On the weekends, Bev would be home to catch up on the business. Finally, Bev and his wife Frances (whom he married on June 25, 1949), decided that this was just too much work, so Bev sold the store and mail order business to Don Lawton in April of 1955, and Don changed the retail name to "Don Lawton". With a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering which he received from Washington University in 1951, he had a brief stint as an engineer and accountant with Lincoln Mercury, but soon started to work for the Steven Toy Company as a plant manager. By 1960, Bev owned the company! It wasn't the magic field, but toys weren't too far off. In fact, in June of 1957 Bev devised and released a toy kaleidoscope that revealed 3 selected cards! In 1964, Bev moved the company to Hermann, MO, a little German town in the foothills of the Ozarks. In 1969, he acquired Blanke Plastics, a plastic injection molding facility in Hermann, as a supplier for the toy company. Bev changed both companies from small fledgling manufacturers to multi-million dollar enterprises which provided many jobs for his adopted home town of Hermann. In fact, over about 30 years' time, Stevens Toys introduced over 500 new products, many resulting from the numerous patents that came from his fertile mind. Frances Ratchford Taylor, his wife of 45 years, died in 1994. In his final years, Bev suffered from Alzheimer's disease, and moved to Friendship Village in Chesterfield, MO. He is survived by his children, Kathleen Barrath, Barbara Fleming, Brent Taylor, and Debra Johnson, and seven grandchildren. He was a tremendously gifted, generous man, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to meet and work with him. Bruce Hetzler ----------------- 6. April 29 Deadline For Convention Workshop Leaders ----------------- Message from George Schindler APRIL 20,2005 - One of the greatly anticipated new features of the S.A.M. 2005 Boston Convention will be the Special Focus Workshops, facilitated by knowledgeable people in multiple areas of interest, such as Escapes, The Business Side of Magic, the History of Magic and Collecting, Restaurant Magic, Trade Shows, Parlour/Stand-up Routines, Club Magic, Kid Shows, School Shows, Clowning, Ventriloquism, etc.! Volunteer Facilitators are needed for each workshop to help initiate discussions, and moderate the workshops, which are designed to be group discussions of best practices and ideas (rather than a lecture format). Workshops will be held in small meeting rooms. If you have a passion for a particular facet of magic entertainment, can you lead one of the small group discussions? Please send your idea for a Special Focus Workshop, and a brief resume of your expertise in this area of magic to: Michael Douglass, Executive Director S.A.M. Conventions P.O. Box 579333 Modesto, CA 95357 or e-mail samconvention@earthlink.net Submissions must be received by April 29 2005. The decisions on Volunteer Facilitators will be final, and made by the Executive Director (Michael Douglass, P.N.P.), and Executive Producer for Talent and Shows (R.G. Smith). Here is a short list of workshops already set. Comedy and Improvisation using Magic (Marlene Clark) Escapes (Andy Dallas) Kid's Shows and Creative Messages with Magic (Marlene Clark) Magic in Special Education (Trudy Monteith) Restaurant Magic (Bruce Kalver) Ventriloquism (George Schindler) ----------------- 7. Las Vegas Magic - May ----------------- Message from David Neubauer (www.dnmagic.com) Production Shows: Amazing Johnathan 10 pm, (Dark Thurs.), Sahara (starting May 6). Collin Foster - Quicker than the Eye 2 & 4 pm daily, 4 & 6 pm Friday, (Dark Mon.), Comedy Zone, Plaza. Haunted Vegas Tour & Show Robert Allen & Jac Hayden 9:00 pm tour and show (Dark Tues. - Thurs.) $10 off coupon: www.vegas4locals.com/couponhauntedvegas.html Illusionary Magic of Rick Thomas 2 & 4 pm, Stardust. (Dark Wed.) Jamie Porter's Radio Side Show Sat @ 5 am, KLAV FM 1230. Jason Bird The Shops in Desert Passage - Aladdin. Main stage, near the "V" Theater, Thursday - Monday Various times from 1:15 pm. - 8:15 pm. - Free. La Femme Stephan Vanel 8 & 10:30 pm, (Dark Tues.), MGM Grand. Lance Burton, Master Magician 7 pm Tues-Sat & 10 pm Tues. & Sat. Monte Carlo. Mac King Comedy Magic Show 1 & 3 pm, (Dark Sun. & Mon.) Harrah's Clint Holmes Theater. Magic and Mirth Tony Blanco - www.tonyblanco.com Thurs.- Mon. evenings, various times, Excalibur. Magic in the Desert (or The Free Magic Show) Nick Coleman 4 pm, (free) (Dark Mon., Fri.) Bourbon Street. The Vinnie Favorito Show Apollo Robbins (Opening Act) Tues. - Thurs 8 p.m., Fri. - Sat. 8 p.m. & 10 p.m. (Dark Sun. - Mon.) - Binion's Ovations Fielding West, Jason Byrne 7 & 9 pm, Lady Luck. (Dark Tues.) Penn & Teller 9 pm, (Dark Tues.), Rio. Showgirls of Magic www.showgirlsofmagic.com 8 & 10:30 (Dark Mon.) (Adults only 2nd show), San Remo. 2 for 1 coupon: www.vegas4locals.com/couponshowgirlsofmagic.html Spotlight Will Roya - www.spotlightshow.com 7 pm, (Dark Fri.), Bourbon Street. 50% off coupon: www.vegas4locals.com/couponspotlight.html Steve Wyrick 7 & 10 pm, (Dark Tues.), Aladdin. V, The Ultimate Variety Show Jeff Hobson, Nathan & Sarah - www.vtheshow.com 7 & 9 pm, Aladdin. 2 for 1 coupon: www.vegas4locals.com/couponvshow.html World's Greatest Magic Show Kevin James, Joseph Gabriel, The Majestix, Kozak. Derek Roberts, Billy Fergueson & Chris Randall (pre-show). 6 pm Sat. - Thurs., 8:15 Fri., Greek Isle. May Guest Stars: 1-18, Losander; 2-8, Victor & Diamond; 19-31, Arden James. June Guest Stars: June 1-8: Arden James; 9-30: Gaetan Bloom. Xtreme Close-up Magic Steve Dacri - Imperial Palace. 9 & 11 pm. Free, 1 drink min. (Dark Sun.) Xtreme Magic Starring Dirk Arthur Tiffany Theatre, Tropicana 2 and 4 pm. (Dark Fri.) Restaurants: Eric Allan Outback Steakhouse (Green Valley), Fri. & Sat. Jayden LaCross TGI Fridays, Wed. & Sun. News: On May 15th at 2:00 pm there will be a celebration of the life of Kurtis Walker in the form of a memorial service at the Greek Isle Hotel in Las Vegas. As most everyone on my list knows, Kurtis was an integral part of Kevin James's show. Everyone is welcome. The Greek Isle will be renaming the performance space "The Kurtis Walker Theatre" and performing a broken wand ceremony. Kurtis Walker was born July 2. 1980 and passed away March 31, 2005. He loved friends, music, photography and life very much. He will be greatly missed. On May 20 there will be an awards ceremony and press party at the Greek Isle Hotel in Las Vegas. The International Magicians Society will be presenting five Merlin Awards to the "World's Greatest Magic Show" for 2005. Show of the Year - World's Greatest Magic Show Best Manipulation - Joseph Gabriel Entertainer of the Year - Kozak Best Illusionists - The Majestix Most Original Magician - Kevin James May, 2005 May 1-18: Losander, World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. May 2-8: Victor & Diamond, World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. May 6: Amazing Johnathan opens at the Sahara (10 p.m.). May 11: Kurtis Walker Memorial Service at the Greek Isle, 2 p.m. May 15-June 1: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. May 19-31: Arden James, World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. May 20: Special International Magicians Society awards presentation, World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. June, 2005 June 1: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. June 1-8: Arden James, World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. June 9-30: Gaetan Bloom, World's Greatest Magic Show, Greek Isle. June 12-14: The Las Vegas Magic Invitational - Palace Station. Guest of honor is Paul Harris. Performers include Gaetan Bloom, Michael Ammar, Gazzo, Eric DeCamps, Allan Ackerman, David Solomon, Chris Randall, Earl Nelson, John Bannon & Daryl. Registration is $150. www.lvmi.net June 30-July 13: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. July, 2005 Through July 13: David Copperfield, MGM Grand. July 12-17: Special Extended Master Class. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. www.MagicalWisdom.com August, 2005 July 9-14: Special Extended Master Class. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. www.MagicalWisdom.com September, 2005 September 9-11: Master Class. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. www.MagicalWisdom.com September 29-October 2: Beyond Bizarre Weekend. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. November, 2005 November 4-6: Magic for Medical Professionals. Details to follow. November 11-13: Master Class. Jeff McBride, Eugene Burger. www.MagicalWisdom.com November 13-15: Mindvention, The second annual all Mentalism convention - Palace Station. www.mindvention.com ----------------- 8. Kurtis Walker Memorial Service ----------------- Message from David Neubauer On May 15th at 2:00 pm there will be a celebration of the life of Kurtis Walker in the form of a memorial service at the Greek Isle Hotel in Las Vegas. Kurtis was an integral part of Kevin James's show. Everyone is welcome. The Greek Isle will be renaming the performance space "The Kurtis Walker Theatre" and performing a broken wand ceremony. Kurtis Walker was born July 2, 1980 and passed away March 31, 2005. He loved friends, music, photography and life very much. He will be greatly missed. ----------------- 9. Up The Amazon Without A Paddle ----------------- Message from Paul Romhany (NZ) Have been busy cruising for the past few months around South America on the Royal Princess, her final season before she goes over to P&O. It is a great ship and holds many fond memories as this was the ship Natalie and I met on, so we were very glad to be able to be part of her final season and say goodbye. The company has extended my contract so will be transhipping over the next few months, heading all over the world visiting some amazing ports. At the moment I am up the Amazon. Had another incredible time up the Amazon River and Jungle yesterday. Went on a 7 hour boat trip yesterday which was simply breathtaking. The variety of snakes, birds, monkeys, sloths and other incredible wildlife I saw was beyond belief. I am glad I have my digital camera as I took some amazing photos. We even went fishing for Paranah the other day .. I didn't catch one, I think they gave me a blunt hook!! But people did catch them and managed to see one close-up. Being so close to nature like this really gives you an appreciation for it. Yesterday for example I was walking in the jungle and the five people in front of me walked on ahead, I stopped and looked up and the trees were alive with cute little monkeys, so I spent some time watching them and they were very curious of me. Then up ahead the people had stopped because on our path was a parakeet snake, one of the deadliest snakes of all. If it bites you die within 45 minutes!!! It was getting ready to jump so we couldn't move. I managed to get some great photos of the snake, thank goodness I had a good zoom on the camera so didn't have to get too close. ----------------- 10. 'Magic-Fete 2005' ----------------- Message from Solyl Kundu, Kolkata, India Hello all! Hope this finds you all in the pink of health and spirits. For last three months I have been totally absorbed in the planning and organizing - 'Magic-Fete 2005' under the banner of PC Sorcar Ring # 83. Since the Ring has gone in to recess in 2000 and there's no committee, I in the chair of the TVP-N had to do everything necessary to make the event a success. My intention was to bring the present IBM members under one umbrella and induce inspiration, energy, interest, enthusiasm and vigor in them as well as make the non-IBM magicians aware of the activities of IBM. Moreover I had intention to bond a sense of fraternity amongst all magic-lunatics of the country. The event started at 4.30pm evening as per the schedule on April 16 Saturday with the registration of delegates, distributing kits - a small handy bag containing the souvenir, delegate participation certificate and after serving coffee with snacks. The program was inaugurated at 5.00pm evening by the youngest IBM member of the country Miss Aarthi Mangala JM of Tamil Nadu state of India by garlanding the photograph of Sorcar, Sr and that was followed by a befitting speech by yours truly - the territorial vice-president, India - N. Magician Raj M of Karnataka state of India then delivered a lecture on 'Presentation' and the same was followed by a short lecture/'demo' by Solyl Kundu, The Magician on 'Safety Magic'. Next event was the Stage Conjuring Competition for juniors and it was really most satisfying and joyous to watch most of the boys' and girls' performance almost to perfection. Aarthi Mangala JM of Tamil Nadu achieved the highest marks and Dhrubajyoti Sen Gupta of West Bengal was as runners-up. After this competition there was a magic show by the willing delegate magicians and Magician JP Banerjee, Ventriloquist Prohlad Sarkar, Solyl Kundu performed for the audience magicians. This was the program for the opening day of the celebration. On 17th of April Sunday the program started at 9.00am mornings after the breakfast. Drummond Money-Counts from the UK showed and presented his expertise in magic that was well-received in spite of the language barrier. Magician Gora Datta of West Bengal state of India lectured/demonstrated on "Novel Platform Magic' and Solyl Kundu on 'Conjuring Capers'. Next event was an 'open discussion' participated by delegates present on various aspects of magic, problems, difficulties, marketing side and more. The brain-child of yours truly was proved itself a successful event. After the lunch HG Ley of Himachal Pradesh state of India performed childrens' magic with a lecture on Presentation. Next event was Stage Conjuring Show competition for seniors. All the participants performed well and the judges had a hard time to decide the winners. Prosanta Mohanty and Sooraj respectively achieved highest marks award and runner-up award. They were both were from West Bengal. After the coffee there was a distribution of prizes. Each winner received a certificate signed by the international president Tony Wilson, a memento, and cash prizes plus gift coupons given by various magic dealers. Following the prize distribution started the last event of the two days festival - the Grand Gala Magic Show. There were many performers from different parts of India and the show was really exciting, entertaining and worth-watching. The entire participants in the Gala Magic Show and lecturers/demonstrators were given a memento in appreciation of their contribution to IBM PC Sorcar Ring # 83 Magic-Fete 2005. Salil Kumar Kundu, 'Solyl Kundu, The Magician' conducted the entire program for two days and finally thanked all for their participation and cooperation. 2 days Fun-filled edutainment of Magic-Fete 2005 ended with cheers and appreciations from all. However, before I end my long reportage I must thank Tony Wilson - Int'l President and Joan Caesar - IBM Chair, TVPs for their continuous support, encouragement and cooperation. Moreover thanks are due to Aldo Colombini, Angelo Stagnaro, Al Albers, Charles Clayton, Dan Garrett, Eric Henning, John Teo, Jon Racherbaumer, Peter Marucci, Sam Dalal, and Solyl Kundu, Tom Craven, Tony Brook and Wayne Rogers for their excellent contributions that was published in the 'Magic' section of the souvenir. I hope you enjoy reading about what is happening in the magic scene of our country. Thanks for staying with me so far. Best regards. MAGICordially, Solyl (Solyl Kundu, Kolkata, India) ----------------- 11. The Close-Up Magic Convention In Sussex ----------------- Message from Mark Worgan Last reminder that The Close-up Magic Convention in Sussex (see www.cumcis.co.uk) is selling fast. As tickets are ONLY available in advance, best book soon..which can now be done online at www.cumcis.co.uk - pay by Cheque, Visa or MasterCard. £25 to see a full day of 15 top dealers, Mark Mason, Mel Harvey, Nick Einhorn, Paul Gordon, Mark Shortland, Al Smith & Mark Worgan. Lectures, Shows, Dealers, Workshops & Socialising in a modern venue - free parking, 40 mins. from London, adjacent main railway line, licensed bar.. www.cumcis.co.uk ----------------- 12. Dante's Leading Lady - Moi-Yo Miller (Montes) Turns 91 ----------------- Message from Kristina (Aust) I thought that you and your readers may like to know that Moi-yo turned 91 years of age last Sunday. A small party with family and close friends was held in her honour on the Saturday night. She had a great time and partied until the late hours of the night. Kristina Bernard's Magic Shop Australia's Oldest Magic Shop ----------------- 13. Magic Aid 2005 ----------------- Message from Michael Chandler Magic Aid 2005 was a huge success at the Peterborough Magic Convention on Sunday. A stall was set up selling, lightly used, props and running a raffle. The money was being raised to help magicians go out to the Tsunami affected regions and entertain the survivors in the camps. Magic Aid 2005 had started in response to a request from the British Ring President, Don Beattie, who had been asked by Linda Cruse, a member of the Bristol Magical Society and an aid worker on one of the Prince of Wales Trust programmes, if this was possible. The first member of the British Ring will be going out to Thailand on May 2 and will stay and work in the camp for three weeks. Upon his return he will write an article for The Budget. The speed that this has all happened in was only made possible by the enormous help and support of, the President of the Peterborough Magic Society Ed Strong, his committee and members and all those magicians who supported the stand on the day. Thanks also have to go to the President of the British Ring, Don Beattie and his wife, magician David Penn and Debbie and magical lecturer Sean Carpenter. Our thanks to everyone in helping us start this action. ----------------- 14. Ausses Are Heading To Thailand ----------------- Message from Steve Hart (Aust) Just to let you know a small group of Ausses are heading to Thailand on the 1st of June to perform for Tsunami affected children. The Trip has been organised by Stephen Leigh if anyone would like to get involved please contact Stephen at alakazam@bmail.com.au. ----------------- 15. Magic Show Conference ----------------- Message from Marty Hahne The Magic Show Conference is proud to add Hank Moorehouse to our Lineup! Duane and Mary Laflin of Laflin Magic and Marty and Brenda Hahne of Dazzling Magic are pleased to present the second annual Magic Show Conference in the entertainment capital of Branson Missouri. Dates are May 12 - May 14. Your registrarion includes tickets to "Siegfried and Roy present Darren Romeo, the Voice of Magic" and the Hamner Barber Variety Show, starring Magicians Dave and Denise Hamner and Ventriloquist Jim Barber. There will be TEN lectures covering all aspects of how to present magic shows, including library shows, banquet shows, birthday parties, family night shows, and more. We're happy to announce well-known Hank Moorehouse will be presenting two lectures. Plus we'll have performance critiques with complementary video taping. There will even be an afternoon show featuring 5 acts, and a whole lot more. It all takes place in Branson, this May 12-14. For more info, go to www.dazzlingmagic.com. Thanks, and hope to see you there! ----------------- 16. I.B.M. British Ring No. 25 Annual Convention ----------------- Message from John Palfreyman From Wednesday 27th September 2005 through to Sunday 2nd October 2005 The British Ring No 25 will be holding its annual Convention at Southport. A fantastic Line-up of artists and Lecturers. Opening Show:- Mark Shortland, - "PLUS" - "PLUS" - "PLUS" Gala Show:- Michael Close (Compere - M.C.) Rafael,- The Deans of Magic, -Simon Lovell, - Alexander Koplin, - Jean Marie Le Royer - Kamyleon, - Marcel Prince of Illusions, - Nestor Hato. Late Gala Show:- Safire. - Brinum X Bubble Opera, - Duane Laflin. - "PLUS" Lecturers:- Tim Hannig, - Scott Penrose, - Rafael, - Simon Lovell,- Sean Carpenter, - Joshua Jay, - Michael Close, - Alan Shaxon (The Jeffrey Atkins Memorial Lecture). Forums:- Terry Herbert`s Childrens Forum, - Wayne Dobson Questions and Answers. Close - Up:- Reed McClintock, - Sean Carpenter, - Joshua Jay, - Mark Oberon, - Michael Close, - Simon Lovell. The Magic Circle Centenary Show:- Alan Shaxon, - Peter Scarlett, - Terry Herbert, - Mike O`Brien, - Scott Penrose. Cynthia Neptune Past President is putting on an item with Young and Junior Magicians and it is called "Stars Of The Future" All information about the Convention and joining British Ring No 25 can be obtained from:- Hon. Secretary John Pye, Lazy Acres, The Croft, Back Lane, Grindleton, Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 4RW. U.K. Email, john@pyesofclitheroe.fsnet.co.uk ----------------- 17. Setting Up A Lecture Tour Throughout Florida In Oct ----------------- Message from Tom Craven I'm in the process of setting up a lecture tour for myself throughout Florida in Oct. 2005. After setting up tours for Troy Hooser, Ken Scott, Aldo Colombini, Max Howard, and Dan Garrett, it's time for me! I'd be interested in lectures in South Carolina, Georgia, and possibly Alabama either on the way down or on the way back. I know it's early, but if your club is interested, let me know ASAP. ----------------- 18. Jimmy Stewart Magician When He Was Younger ----------------- Message from Tim Rappel - TRa3697307@aol.com Many years ago, I wrote to Jimmy Stewart knowing he did magic when he was younger. He wrote me a short letter telling me about working for Bill Neff as a young man. I am looking for a picture of him doing magic or anything related to magic to frame with the letter. I have searched, but can't find one. Maybe someone out there can help me. ----------------- 19. Contaminated By L.A. Fire, Museum Magic Is Sealed Tight ----------------- Message from Jack Greenberg IBM Past President forward on by IBM International President Tony Wilson From LA Times -------------------------------- Even for Houdini, There's No Escape Contaminated by L.A. fire, museums of broadcasting and magic are sealed tight. By Bob Pool, Times Staff Writer If the magicians could wave their wands and make the problem disappear, the broadcasters would shout out the good news. Too bad things are not that simple at the famous intersection of Sunset and Vine. That's where a fire in an underground power chamber spewed smoke into a Washington Mutual Savings and Loan branch, coating its money vaults, tellers' counters and customer areas with toxic PCBs. But the most far-reaching damage was in the bank's basement, which houses the Society of American Magicians' Hall of Fame and Magic Museum and the separate Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters Museum. Toxic materials have contaminated exhibits and equipment that had been used by illusionists such as Harry Blackstone Sr. and Harry Houdini and collected over the last century by the magicians' group. In the museum, PCBs cover early radio sets, thousands of original broadcast scripts and transcriptions, and vintage equipment such as Bing Crosby's personal microphone. Since the Dec. 13, 2004, transformer fire, the two museums have been closed and sealed off along with the bank. Washington Mutual officials say that the branch's cleanup cannot begin until the museums remove their displays. Museum operators, however, said they cannot move their property until it has been decontaminated. And they said that neither group can afford the about half a million dollars that the cleanup and relocation would cost each organization. "We have thousands of transcriptions and tapes of old radio shows and old radios and technical equipment dating back to the 1920s. We have examples of the first TVs, thousands of old scripts, a huge collection of antique microphones, including Bing Crosby's personal mike - the one he felt made him sound so good," said Martin Halperin, a vice president of the 500-member broadcasters group. "These are one-of-a-kind things. They're irreplaceable. We have broadcasters oral histories, the entire KFI scrapbook that traces that station back to its start. We have the original SigAlert radio. We've duplicated a complete working studio down there, with turntables and equipment. We have the very first audiotape machine - the Ampex 200, serial number 1." Halperin is a retired broadcast and sound engineer who lives in Woodland Hills. He said he had jokingly asked the magicians to conjure up a solution to the contamination. "I said, 'John, can't you pull a rabbit out of the hat and make this go away?' " Halperin said. John Engman, president of the magicians' local hall, said his society's 8,000 members can only wish that they had a magic potion for that job. "People are heartbroken about this. Members have been meeting every Wednesday night for 34 years building the stages and theaters for magic performances and museum rooms," said Engman, a retired Alhambra attorney and part-time magician. "We have displays using mannequins to show the development and history of magic back to 2500 BC. We have memorabilia from World War II USO magic shows, one-of-a-kind items like 1912 nightclub tricks - thimbles and cards. We have the minutes from the society's founding in 1902 - we don't know what condition they're in from the PCBs." Among the contaminated exhibits is the Houdini handcuff display. It is a collection of bracelets that the famed illusionist obtained from those who had challenged his skills as an escape artist. Dozens of cuffs and key sets are mounted on black velvet boards, Engman said. The northeast corner of Sunset Boulevard and Vine Street has lengthy ties to show business and broadcasting. For nearly a quarter-century starting in 1938, NBC network radio shows aired from a 4½-acre studio complex that contained four 350-seat studio-auditoriums that were used for "The Fibber McGee and Molly Show," "The Jack Benny Show" and other programs. It was there that Halperin launched his broadcast career as a page several years before NBC in 1949 began television operations at the corner. The distinctive, curve-fronted, green building was torn down in 1964 after being made obsolete by color TV studios that NBC built in Burbank. In 1967 the bank building was constructed by Home Savings and Loan, which offered rent-free basement space to the museums. That arrangement was continued in 1998 when Washington Mutual acquired Home Savings. Washington Mutual officials blamed an underground electrical transformer owned by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power for the contamination. They said that PCB-laced smoke from a transformer fire was vented through a subterranean conduit into the branch's basement. From there, the contamination was circulated by the building's air-conditioning system throughout the structure. PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) were used as an oil substitute in electrical transformer cooling systems until 1977, when they were banned because of health concerns. Experts said older transformers may still contain fluids with PCBs. Washington Mutual set up temporary trailers and resumed business at the corner on Jan. 28. Moon-suited workers decontaminated the bank's ATMs and restored them to service March 12. But the branch's main money vaults and its 700 safe-deposit boxes remained off-limits to employees and customers. Tim McGarry, a Washington Mutual spokesman, said the bank helped customers replace passports and other documents that were in the inaccessible boxes until decontamination experts constructed a new doorway and a toxic-material-free passageway leading to the boxes. Customers regained access to the boxes, which he said tests had indicated were not contaminated, on Saturday. Once the entire building is decontaminated through an Environmental Protection Agency -approved wipe-down and high-strength vacuuming, officials plan to gut and replace the interior, McGarry said. But as the museum operators and bankers have wrestled with the problem, DWP officials have remained silent about the venting of PCBs into an occupied building and the resulting damage. Department spokeswoman Darlene Battle initially refused to discuss the contamination on grounds that the incident was the focus of a lawsuit - an assertion that Washington Mutual, the magicians and the broadcasters said was untrue. Later, Battle stated: "The department has declined to comment on any of your questions. That is our comment." Washington Mutual has offered to pay to box up the museums' collections. But the magicians and broadcasters must find a place to move the material to, McGarry said. Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters' Halperin said his group is reluctant to have outsiders pile antique microphones and radios and thousands of fragile discs of vintage broadcasts - including the complete CBS radio entertainment and news collection - into boxes. "Anyway, what warehouse is going to take contaminated storage?" Halperin asked. The magicians' Engman said it would cost about $220,000 to decontaminate his museum's artifacts and an additional $330,000 to move them. Things without hard surfaces - the theater's upholstered seating and the various display areas' curtains - would have to be thrown away. So would the hand-built stages and display rooms. The magic museum operates on a budget of about $3,500 a year, he said. McGarry said the museums would have to pack up and go because the bank was eager to regain use of the building. "Leaving the property in place is not an option - a building is not decontaminated unless all exposed areas and contents are cleaned," he said. Which means that the broadcasters and magicians need to pull a disappearing act. And fast. ----------------- 20. The Magic Circle At The Magic Castle ----------------- Message from Terry Seabrooke As part of The Magic Circle Centenary celebrations, there will be a special week at the Magic Castle in Los Angeles, where all the performers will stars from The Magic Circle in England. This will be starting on October 17th and running the whole week until Sunday 23rd October. So far taking part are:- Chris Pratt, Michael Vincent, Tim Shoesmith, Romany, Alan Shaxon, Terry Seabrooke (his 126 week at the Castle since 1976), Peter Wardell, John Star with the one and only Billy McComb acting as special host for the week. Should be some fun for all. Alan Shaxon will be giving the lecture that week on the history of The Magic Circle coupled with the name of Robert Harbin. ----------------- 21. IBM Ring 81 - Florida ----------------- Message from Joe Clifford If anyone in your great country vacations in Florida, our Ring meeting meets on the First Thursday of the month at the Flanzer Jewish Community Center. 582 S McIntosh Road in Sarasota Florida @ 7pm. Tell them to look me up and I will make sure they have a Great time. Thanks Joe Clifford ----------------- 22. Million Dollar Silk Production - By: Jamie-G ----------------- Message from Jamie-G (Canada) Million Dollar Silk Production (Give away magic) Effect: Magician gets a child up to help with the magic. The magician pulls a million dollar bill from his pocket and shows the spectator's front and back of the million dollar bill after this is done the magician than lets his young helper check out the bill as well. The magician at this point takes the bill back and rolls the bill up into a tube shape. The magician than asks the child to blow on top of the rolled bill. The magician says aloud "Perfect the magic did happen." The magician then takes a colored silk from the top of the bill. The magician then hands the colored silk for the child to hold and then the magician shows the bill on both sides again, nothing there. The magician then rolls the bill into a tube once again and takes the silk from the child and stuffs the silk back inside of the rolled bill. The magician now asks the child to blow back on the top of the rolled bill once again. The magician says out aloud "The magic just happened again". The magician than opens the bill and the silk has disappeared. The magician then gives the child the magic million dollar bill for helping him do the magic. The child goes back to their seat happy that they got a magic million dollar bill. Props: A 6 or 9 inch colored silk, a thumb tip, and a million dollar bill. Note: The million dollar bill looks pretty real like a U.S. dollar bill. You should be able to get the million dollar bill at most magic shops. Also you can buy the million dollar bills in bulk from U.S. toys.(Net search it if you have to.) Method: When you go for the million dollar bill to take out of your pocket slip on your thumb tip which has the colored silk loaded inside it. Show the bill front to back and roll the bill into a bill tube like shape. At this point you take the thumb tip and put it right in the middle of the bill tube. Get the child to blow on top of the bill tube and pull the silk out. Hand the silk to the child and then show the bill on both sides. While folding the bill back into the tube slip the empty thumb tip inside the bill tube while you are rolling it back up. Now take the silk and place it back into the bill tube and back into the thumb tip. Get the child to blow on the bill tube again. Place your thumb back into the bill tube and into the thumb tip to steel the thumb tip and the silk. Unroll the bill and show that the silk is gone. Give the child the million dollar bill for helping. Note: The child will remember you forever and don't be surprised if they come up to you 20 years later with that very same bill. Try it you will see what I mean. ----------------- 23. The Amazing Orchante Saga ----------------- Message from Tommy Orchard (The Amazing Orchante)(UK ex-pat Kiwi) Page 49 TEX MORTON Plus The Great Orchanté Saturday 28th October, 1967 - New Zealand Television producer Kevin Moore has booked me to perform my Bed of Nails and Sword Swallowing acts for a Live T.V. show. At the studio, I had the pleasure and privilege to meet one of New Zealand's greatest showmen, the late Tex Morton, who was also on the show. Tex kindly loaned his weight by standing on me during my bed of nails routine. Tex was touring New Zealand at that time, playing to packed houses throughout, with his 'One Man Show' Having a chat after the TV programme had finished Tex, out of the blue, asked if I'd join him as his 'Guest Artist' on the last leg of his nationwide tour - throughout the top end of New Zealand. I was proud to accept but, you could have knocked me over with a feather; it struck me that the last thing Tex needed, with all his talents, was another act on his show. But for some reason, he'd taken a 'shine' to me. Looking back, I personally think that he saw in me a younger version of himself, not just an entertainer, but a showman with a 'Down To Earth, One of The Boys; There's Nothing Snobby About Me Attitude! Before I go any further, here's a resume/history about Tex, which will be rather lengthy; trying to be brief just wouldn't do justice to one of New Zealand's, and Australia's, best loved entertainers. Tex Morton was born in Nelson, New Zealand, as Robert William Lane. Early in life (because of his parents disapproval of 'show business') he changed his name to avoid displeasing them. His first touring show was as a Hypnotist, and Memory Expert, and he later gravitated to the legitimate Theatre, playing every part from light comedy to heavy drama. His two hobbies were always Folk singing and the study of Hypnotism, and he became world famous as a recording artist around 1935, after recording many of the songs he had gathered in his travels. They sold by the millions. Nicknamed 'Tex' by his friends, he amazed everyone by assembling the biggest circus and rodeo Australia has ever known, touring it successfully for 12 years, while simultaneously conducting his ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) network shows. He went to the USA in 1949 to finish his studies, and became a lecturer at the Institute of Hypnotherapy in Los Angeles upon graduation in Psychology. He later lectured at McGill University, Montreal, Canada, and was an honorary member of Students' Executive, at Sir George Williams' College. He then transferred to Toronto and taught many Medical practitioners and Dental Surgeons the use of Hypnotism in Therapy, specialising in the psychosomatic field. He was an Associate at the Canadian Institute of Hypnotherapy, having co-founded this institution in 1954. His return to Show business created a sensation - all records across the USA and Canada were smashed. He was unbelievably versatile. The Duluth (Minnesota) newspaper said, after seeing his show 'The greatest display of versatility since Leonardo da Vinci' He was probably the greatest 'one man show' in the world at that time, and was also a very fine monologist and raconteur, and made many recordings of his 'readings'. He was expert sharpshooter, and his spine-chilling shooting demonstrations have baffled experts the world over. Without keeping up any practice whatsoever, he was able to more than hold his own, with the finest in every country he visited - sometimes, even defeating their champions I did say that this wasn't going to be brief. I'll forgive you if you start thinking 'This is the Tex Morton saga!' And I ain't finished yet! Our tour together started on Monday 13th November 1967, in Kaitaia. I'll continue the Tex Morton/Orchanté saga next episode - there are some amusing tales to tell. ---------------- 24. Magic New Zealand e-zine Archives ------------------ Back issues of the Magic New Zealand e-zine go to: www.watson.co.nz/ezine.html Both the User Name and Password MUST be entered in lower case to gain access. User Name: magic Password: kiwi When you enter the archive the e-zines are in issue order and are coded. Eg 001 Nov06 1999.txt first three numbers (001) denote issue number, then the date (Nov06) and the last figures the year (1999) ------------------- 25. 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