Magic New Zealand® E-zine

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* Magic New Zealand®
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Issue Number: #1726
Date: Sunday 30th July 2023
Editor: Alan Watson QSM
www.watson.co.nz
E-mail: Editor@magicnewzealand.com

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Hi here is the latest news
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1. Editor's Message
2. Memorial Held For Magic Castle Co-Founder Milt Larsen
3. August Issue Genii Magazine
4. 2023 Annual National Council Meeting
5. No Stone Unturned - Paul Stone - Article #118
6. Magic Museum Bellachini - Episode 41
7. CAMaraderie Competition Important Change
8. Tales From The Fantastic Magic Center - #51
9. The Unknown Future - John Carey #206
10. New Mexico Magic Festival
11. E-zine Archives
12. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice

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1. Editor's Message
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Thank you! Rod Chow, National President, for the unexpected honour and surprise of receiving a Presidential Citation at The Society of American Magicians 2023 annual National Council Meeting and Convention in New Orleans.

If you would like to read the Magic New Zealand e-zine in HTML format go to: https://www.magicnewzealand.com/ezine-archive/2023-Jan-to-Dec-2023/1726-Jul30-2023.html

If you would like to write a regular column for Magic New Zealand or
have some magic news drop me a line:
Editor@MagicNewZealand.com

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2. Memorial Held For Magic Castle Co-Founder Milt Larsen
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Friends, relatives and colleagues gathered today for a memorial service in honor of Milt Larsen, who co-founded Hollywood's famed Magic Castle in the early 1960s. He died at the age of 92 back in May.

https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/video/memorial-held-for-magic-castle-co-founder-milt-larsen/
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3. August Issue Genii Magazine
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Message by Richard Kaufman - Editor Genii Magazine

Want to visit the famous Magic Castle in Hollywood? Subscribers to Genii can score a reservation at this exclusive private club each year as one of their perks. Subscribe to Genii magazine today for as little as $35 and get more magic than you can dream of … at www.geniimagazine.com

Because things in magazines tend to vanish from common consciousness after a year or two, most people don't remember that a substantial amount of Steranko's unique card work had been published in Genii. This month our cover story is a mid-century retro replay: Steranko's "Stacked Deck," a 20-page potpourri combining interview, essay, and seven card routines never published elsewhere other than their original appearance in Genii's November 1962 issue.

We do a complete 180 in our next story, which focuses on The Don Silvio Museum of Magic in the Medieval city of Cherasco, Italy. Created by Father Silvio Mantelli, the priest who led the campaign to make Don Bosco the patron saint of magicians, it is filled with magic ephemera and books, and functions as a place for the young to learn magic.

Our third story reports on the second Tenyo Magic Fan Meeting which took place in Yokohama in May. Organized by the Tenyo Company, Tenyo fans will be eager to hear about the latest Tenyo news and learn about the special tricks given to attendees and unique souvenirs sold. One of the old lions of Tenyo's Creative Division, Shigeru Sugawara, gave a lecture and demonstrated one of his ingenious routines, which I'm delighted to present to you at the end of the article.

In this month's "The Eye," Vanessa Armstrong brings you news of Jason Sudeikis's interest in magic; I met him backstage at David Copperfield's show one evening and I know he enjoys reading magic books. * Shawn McMaster talks up the AMA Awards Show and Milt Larsen's passing in "Knights at The Magic Castle."

There's a soldier who served in Vietnam involved in this month's bit of digging in Jon Racherbaumer's "Exhumations." How far can you toss a Tossed-Out Deck? In Jim Steinmeyer's "The Tossed-Aside Deck" the answer is far enough that the deck is left with an audience member; in "Conjuring." David Regal sends a packet of Aces back in blankety-blank time in "Material Concessions." In "Stage as Studio" Krystyn Lambert digs into the "zone" - the moments during performance when all things good converge to produce excellence.

Jonathan Friedman has remodeled the sleight into "Pop Gun Pasteboards" in this month's "WWPD." The so-called Hofzinser Ace Problem has intrigued card workers for decades: John Bannon, this month in "Dealing With It," lets loose with his version called "Blitzinger." Robert Ramirez regales you with three tricks in this month's "Magicana," including a devious trick using a borrow iPhone. Just before this issue folds closed, "Light from the Lamp" squeaks in, bring you reviews of the latest books (including Max Maven's eagerly-awaited Parallax), videos, and tricks from Nathan Coe Marsh, Suzanne, and Ryan Plunkett.

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4. 2023 Annual National Council Meeting
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Message by Rod Chow (Canada)

At The Society of American Magicians 2023 annual National Council Meeting and Convention in New Orleans, I had the honor to present Presidential Citations to: Heroism & Patriots Chair Bill Gleason PNP Bruce Kalver, PNP Steven Spence, PNP Richard Dooley, PNP Mike Miller, National Secretary Marlene Szulczewski Clark, PNP Dal Sanders & Cinde Hodges Sanders, National Administrator Manon Rodriguez & PNP Dan Rodriguez and PNP & Conference Chair Mark Weidhaas & Registrar Anne Wojtkowiak Weidhaas. Mark and Anne, together with their convention team, are responsible for this incredible convention and have been planning, organizing and running our spectacular S.A.M. National Conventions for the past decade.

I also announced at the 2023 National Council meeting the awarding of Presidential Citations to
deserving recipients not present which Citations I will send to them: Jay Scott Berry, Jimmy Cieslinski, Dale Salwak, Alan Watson, Connie Boyd, Matt Johnson, Murray SawChuck, Julie Eng and Franz Harary.

At the S.A.M. Goes to the movies event featuring Jon Racherbaumer's Prime-time Marlo moderated by Steve Reynolds's, I presented a Presidential Citation to Steve on behalf of the legendary Jon Racherbaumer who was unable to attend.

At the Life Member Breakfast, I being the latest Life Member having been presented my Life Member package by PNP Life Member Tom Gentile on behalf of Life Member Chair Dan Sclare, whose handmade wooden magic wand bow tie, presented to me last year by Tom, I wore for the occasion, I presented my Presidential Citation to earliest Life members Char Gott & PNP Christopher Bontjes.

At the Tina Lenart and friends Panel Discussion with Mike Caveney, Christopher Hart, Jorge Blass and Arden James, I presented a Presidential Citation to Convention Honoree Tina Lenart.
At the Magic in America: The Story of the American Magicians by David Goodsell and edited by David Charvet book launch, I presented a Presidential Citation to David Charvet following his interview with Bruce Kalver.

On behalf of the S.A.M. I presented a beautiful glass portrait plaque designed by David Charvet to Jann Goodsell in memory of David Goodsell, in recognition of his untiring devotion to the art of magic and the preservation of its history through his book.

At the Banquet, I presented my final Presidential Citation on stage to Michael Dardant who is our local New Orleans host and who really has put the incredible fun and exceptional Mardis Gras experience into this convention.

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5. No Stone Unturned - Paul Stone - Article #118
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Message by Paul Stone (US)

Earlier this week over 1,000 magicians and friends filled to capacity the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles for a Celebration of Life of one of the Founders of the Magic Castle in Hollywood, Milt Larsen.

And what an extraordinary life it was!

Appropriately, the Magic Castle remained closed for the night, allowing the staff of the Magic Castle to be present for this special tribute.

The audience comprised of a veritable 'who's who' of magic. It is impossible to mention by name all of the many magic stars and personalities present. Rarely has there been so much magic talent under one roof at one time!

But I will make one exception, it was wonderful to see the incredibly effervescent 99 year old Maria Lafay, who was in great form!

We had all come together to honour the life and legacy of a very unique and magical man who had, in one way or another, touched the lives of everyone present, and also thousands more magicians around the world.

This was a night when egos were pushed to one side, and genuine love and affection filled this grand old theatre, a theatre which in 1957 had played host to it's first 'It's Magic' Show, produced by Milt and his friend Terry Hill, starring John Calvert.

The atmosphere started building the moment we walked into the theatre, thanks to several short written tributes from Milt's friends, projected on a large screen above the stage. These had been painstakingly compiled by Diana (the Enchantress) Zimmerman.

The event was expertly hosted by David Kovac, who seamlessly guided us through a show punctuated by a series of heartfelt speeches. The performers consisted of some old friends, and some of Milt's favourite acts, and David Copperfield sent a short video tribute.

Opening the show was Jody Baran, who demonstrated great skill with his card manipulation, finishing his act with a classic levitation of his assistant. You could see that Jody was a seasoned pro, and his hugely expressive face signalled to the audience that he was really enjoying himself. A lesson that many other performers could learn from!

Michael Goudeau, who of course was the Guest Star for 19 years in Lance Burton's shows at both the Hacienda and Monte Carlo Casinos in Las Vegas, romped through his hilarious bean bag and apple juggling routines. Michael is a real crowd pleaser, and a very popular performer.

An additional unbilled performer was Englishman Mark Haslam. Just saying that he performed the card in cigarette, simply doesn't do him justice. His impeccable and articulate presentation was uniquely British, and showcased an artist who has performed hundreds of shows. Mark's act was one of Milt's particular favourites.

I personally was delighted to once again meet up with Mark, having last met him over 30 years ago! Needless to say, we had a lot to talk about.

The final magic act was the fabulous Les Arnold & Dazzle. I love Variety and Vaudeville acts, and they are a real throwback to those halcyon days. They seem to get better every time I see them, and they brought the house down!

Of course, there was more to Milt than just magic. Together with his lifelong friend and iconic songwriter Richard (Dick) Sherman, they wrote and produced various musical shows, and some of the original cast members regaled the crowd with songs from 'Pazazz!'

They were very entertaining, and what made it all even more poignant was the introduction of 95 year old Sherman himself on stage. He received a very moving, and long, standing ovation from the whole audience.

His credits include composing the songs for Disney's Mary Poppins, Bedknobs & Broomsticks, and the unforgettable 'It's a Small World' which he wrote with his brother in 1963, to name but a few. Quite amazing!

The speakers who included Lance Burton, Erika Larsen, Jessica Hopkins, Liberty Larsen, Terry Hill, Gay Blackstone, and new Magic Castle owner Randy Pitchford, were all excellent, and sensibly concise. And Milt's wife Arlene, who sadly couldn't be present due to a recent surgery, sent a message.

For me however, the stand-out speaker was Johnny Cannizzaro, a name that I didn't know previously, and I suspect many readers wouldn't know either.

Johnny was Milt's assistant for 16 years and also his caretaker for the past 4 years. He movingly shared some very personal stories about Milt, and had many people reaching for the tissues!

The whole evening was planned and directed by Dale Hindman, Milt's close friend and executive assistant, and he must be congratulated on a very memorable and fitting tribute.

Milt Larsen inspired so many magicians with his vision and love of life, and his legacy will undoubtedly live on for years to come.

Which brings me neatly to two other iconic magical figures who have left their own very distinct legacy, Siegfried & Roy. This is the final opportunity to sign up for an exclusive tour of their original home, the JUNGLE PALACE.

Numbers are limited, but there are still a few places left for the two tours which I'll be hosting on Saturday August 5th and Sunday August 6th, just before Magic Live. To secure your place, go to:
https://lasvegasjunglepalace.com/private-tour-of-the-las-vegas-jungle-palace/

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6. Magic Museum Bellachini - Episode 41
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Message by Wittus Witt (Germany)

In a few days the fourth issue of my magazine "Magische Welt" (MW) will be sent out. This time, too, the focus is on a magical woman. (You remember: last time it was Luna Shimada).

This time it is also an artist with a very big name: Moretti, or more precisely: Nicole Moretti. She may not have become as famous as her father Hans and her two brothers, but she has also made a name for herself in Germany. Especially with the art of ventriloquism. She was probably one of the first German female ventriloquists. She was inspired by the famous Swiss ventriloquist Fred Roby (13 February 1931 - 25 February 2022).

Despite a serious illness, which Nicole had to go through in her early childhood, she managed to build up a performance with which she has appeared on many large and small stages, mainly in Germany. In the beginning she was supported by her son Mike, but this time did not last very long.

In 2010, Nicole left the stage to take care of her sick father Hans Moretti (24 July 1928 - 12 March 2013).

More about Nicole (in German, but easy to translate via Google or Deepl):

https://www.zauber-pedia.de/index.php?title=Nicole_Moretti

Here the link to the new issue:
https://youtu.be/jkby4ECJFek

Another wonderful report comes from Stefan Alexander Rautenberg, who tells of his pilgrimage to Blois, to the Robert-Houdin Museum in France. A very beautiful travel experience.

Finally, I would like to mention Prof. Dr. Reinhard Hohlfeld, who is writing a series on the subject of magic and science. He describes the phenomenon of "object permanence" in magic. He had already given a lecture on this for scientists, which you can see on YouTube here:

Go to minute 29:30

https://bit.ly/3XRMUrk

Even if you don't understand German, the effect is amazing.

That's all for today.

Best regards from the most beautiful city in Germany, Hamburg.

Wittus

www.hamburger-zaubermuseum.com

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7. CAMaraderie Competition Important Change
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Message by Joan Caesar (Canada)

We have heard from several magic friends that they are still hurting financially from the loses they suffered during Covid. It has always been our mission to help competitors. Therefore, we have decided to waive the competition fee of $50 plus tax for CAMaraderie 2023. Those of you who have already paid will be reimbursed.

There are many people on vacation at this time of year, so we have extended the deadline to send your video to August 18. Don't forget to send a copy of your act by that date to JCaesar@sentex.ca

We also want to thank the dealers who joined us at FISM by giving them a special offer. Dealers who were at FISM in Quebec City will pay only $100 plus tax for registration and will be given a table free of charge. There are only a few places left, so don't wait to register on line at www.festivaldemagie.ca

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8. Tales From The Fantastic Magic Center - #51
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Message by Kent Cummins, Director (US)

I Want to be Like Houdini!

Harry Houdini is still the best-known magician in the history of the universe. (Sorry, David!)
Can there possibly be anything about Houdini that has not already been written about in too many books, magazines, and other material? Is there anything new?

Well, I have found enough previously-unpublished material about Houdini to write my own book, "I Want to be Like Houdini!" which is in the final process of editing. I hope to have it available before October 31 this year, 97 years after his death.

Where does new material come from? From personal projects and unique research. For example, I have tried several times to perform amazing escapes, because, "I want to be like Houdini!" I escaped from handcuffs, chains and leg irons while underwater in a swimming pool. And I couldn't swim!

I invented escapes from paper leg irons and a cardboard box.

Okay, I did not achieve any fame, but I have collected some fascinating stories.

I was able to collect interesting information about Houdini in Spiritualist publications, thanks to my Uncle Vernon, the Reverend Vernon R. Cummins, Founder and Lifetime President of the American Spiritualist Alliance.

I was instrumental in creating Houdini's 1986 Canadian tour with the Mighty Thomas Shows Carnival. I helped Jim Baldauf with a press party to promote newly-discovered Houdini artifacts. My daughter, Carolyn Kim Cummins, wore a stage coat made and previously worn by Bess Houdini.

When the book becomes available, I will of course post the information on Facebook…and whatever other social media is popular at the time. And I will write about it here…so keep reading, "Tales from the Fantastic Magic Center!"

The Fantastic Magic Center is dedicated to preserving and sharing the art of magic. But I can't do it without your help. My Patreon account is the same place as my free weekly podcast:
www.FantasticMagicCenter.com

kent@magichotline.com

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9. The Unknown Future - John Carey #206
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Message by John Carey (UK)
http://www.johncareymagic.co.uk/

Think it's safe to say that paradoxical effects like the mystery card play extremely strong with the public. Elmsley's between your palms and Hamman's signed card being two of the finest effects in this genre. The following approach uses a thought of card gambit and a bold ruse. You need two identical Jokers in your deck. Position one of them on top and you are ready to rumble. "Cards have been used by Gypsies and Psychics for generations to tell the past, present and future. Let's give the deck a little mix and cut to a mystery card that will represent the unknown
future." As you say this give the deck an in the hands riffle shuffle, retaining the Joker on top and then execute any convincing false cut. Deal the top card face-down onto the table.

"Jack, if I was to ask you to think of and then call out any playing card, what would it be? The Three of Clubs? And that was completely fair and not a soul influenced your mind right? Do you know the two cards that nobody thinks of? They are the Jokers! I guess it's because they have no
specific value or identity. Let's take them out of the deck so there's no confusion."

"Let's recap. At the very start the deck was shuffled and cut. I placed that mystery card on the table. Then, and only then did I ask you to think of a card. I don't even want to touch that mystery card. Let's use these Jokers like pincers and pick it up. Remind us what card you thought of, Jack? You see it's inevitable that the unknown future will eventually become the
present!"

So, suiting actions to words as above, we spread the deck with the faces towards us. Take out their thought of card and the Joker, adjusting if necessary so that the Joker is the face card of the pair. Discard the deck. Execute a quick flushtration count showing two Jokers. Then take the
thought of card face-down at the fingertips of the left hand and the Joker face-down at the right fingertips.

We now execute Brother Hamman's sandwich switch from his routine The Signed Card: The two hands come over the mystery card on the table and scoop it up between the two cards you are holding, the left hand card going on top and the right hand card underneath. Immediately pull out the bottom card and flip it face-up and place on top of the packet with the right hand. Again, with no hesitation the left hand pulls out the new bottom card and flips that card face-up and places it underneath the packet, exhibiting two face-up Jokers with a face-down card trapped in between. (illustrated on page 23) All that's left to do is to ask your helper to remove that face-down card and reveal that it's the card they merely thought of.

Notes:

Credit to Gary Kurtz for the closing line of the main presentation.

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10. New Mexico Magic Festival
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Message by Bronson Chadwick (US)

Plans for the New Mexico Magic Festival are finalized and the convention is only a few weeks out!

Join us this September 23-24, 2023 at the Drury Inn and Suites Albuquerque North Hotel for a weekend of magic by Benjamin Barnes, Doug Anderson, Chad Wonder and many more amazing parlor and stage professionals! Our dealer room will showcase amazing magic wares from across the US and our lecture room will be packed with information on original magic effects and concepts. Registration is only $99 for the weekend or $75 for card-carrying members of the Society of American Magicians.

Learn more and register now at www.thewonder.store/new-mexico Registration is limited to 100 people.

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11. E-zine Archives
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Back issues of the Magic New Zealand e- zine go to:
www.magicnewzealand.com

Click on the red button centre right "Archives"

When you enter the archive the e- zines are in issue order in folders for each year and are Coded, e.g. 001 Nov06 1999.txt first three numbers (001) denote issue number, then the date (Nov06) and the last figures the year (1999)

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12. Privacy Policy And Copyright Notice
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Our subscriber list is NOT made available to any other companies or individuals. We value every subscriber and respect your privacy.

You can subscribe to or unsubscribe from the Magic New Zealand® E- zine at: www.magicnewzealand.com

Magic New Zealand® E-zine is published each Sunday.

The opinions and statements expressed therein are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of Magic New Zealand®. Neither Magic New Zealand® nor Alan Watson QSM vouch for the accuracy or reliability of any opinion, message, statement, or other information reported via Magic New Zealand® E-zine.

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Magic New Zealand® reserves the right to alter, correct or disregard any articles submitted.

Readers are encouraged to submit timely articles or news items which may be of interest to subscribers. By submitting articles to this e- zine, the authors grant Magic New Zealand® the right to publish such articles and such authors confirm their copyright of the material submitted.

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Notwithstanding the foregoing, this publication may be freely redistributed, but not sold, to other magicians if copied in its entirety, including the copyright notice below and the above disclaimer.