Magictimes

Today I'm giving a shout out to Meir Yedid: one of the good guys who has worked tirelessly at our art for as long as I can remember.

Learn more about Meir here: http://www.meiryedid.com/

When I needed to review the upcoming magic on tv, I Knew a trip to Meir's sister site: Magictimes.com would provide the info I was looking for (if/when the Dan White / JB / Magic Man specials were being reaired)

For my magi friends: shout out to Meir Yedid who's "MyMagic" news is always happily received in my inbox. If you haven't signed up, I suggest you do. I'd also like to note his: http://magictimes.com/ site which also covers magic that is on TV

In addition to many other cool stuff on TV this week, I noticed the Travel Channel is re-broadcasting Dan White & (seperate) JB's Magic Man specials. Both are worth a look, if nothing else to see what the average joe is seeing. 

Thanks Meir for your tireless work. I've been a fan since you were starting out (with your award winning finger act) and 20+ years later, was a pleasure to share the same stage with you.
Anyway... ya'll go check Meir's stuff out & sign up for his "My Magic" news (look at the top left of the magic times page.) I'll remention Meir & Co are reprinting Jon Racherbaumer's MO zine in hardback form & it should be available soon

Anyway... ya'll go check Meir's stuff out & sign up for his "My Magic" news (look at the top left of the magic times page.)

While here:  I'll remention Meir & Co are reprinting Jon Racherbaumer's MO zine in hardback form & it should be available soon!
End rant. Thanks for listening.

DuoLingo

I've been looking for an app like this (and free at that)
One that teaches visually, verbally beyond
http://www.duolingo.com/

Several languages are available

Android is supported

When I find "the hook" I'll let ya know

Till then... I'm gonna start learning Spanish!

Crooked

I shoulda mentioned this earlier, so you coulda put this on your xmas list (it's on mine)
Get it after, get it now, just get it: if you like good 'random' pocket magic (like dice) you'll love this.

CROOKED: THE finale for the Sacks dice routine (and so much more)

Go here: watch the demo
http://www.trcky.com/crooked.html

This is a just a couple of the items in this package.

speaking of the package... look at this:

wow

Rich sets the bar high and nails it.

Just look at the link above. THIS is a WINNER  (*& a worker)

are you kidding me with this: 

get it!

M.O!

Well, well, nice to see some rumors are true!

In 1994 Jon Racherbaumer published one of my original creations "Chameleon Sandwich" It was released in an "Underground" zine of his known as "Modus Operandi"  I felt like I was on top of a mountain (and since then have climbed many more mountains: very often, thanks to Jon: Thanks Rock!) I have a few routines in these pages. And beyond that: I've read them all (I'm happy to own an original set :) and I can say with confidence, if you're a cardman, there's gold to be mined. You WILL find something of use (check out a brief list of contents below) There are moves, sleights and routines for all levels of cardopia. From simple self workers to complete knuckle busters.

This post is to report the zine is being compiled into a Hardcover keepsake (as it should be) and will be available the first of the year... Presales start now ($45 pre, $55 post) It's being produced by Harry Anderson's Spade and Archer (which I LOVE) and I expect the production to be top notch.

Want one? 
Racherbaumer Writes (Quote)
This is to alert interested parties regarding the upcoming release of...

MO: MODUS OPERANDI BOOK

Meir Yedid and Harry Anderson are publishing an elegant, repackaged rendition of M.O. that features 50+ items, 20 + contributors, 240 + pages, and 180+ photographs. For those who may not know, M.O. was a limited edition quarterly I started back in 1993. If you ever wondered what kind of secrets were being shared by the elite underground, this is what M. O. was all about. Only eight issues were released, spanning from 1993-1996 and proved to be very exclusive. Few complete sets now exist and even single issues are almost impossible to find.

Contributors included: Arturo de Ascanio, Jack Birnman, Christian Chelman, Doug Conn, Daryl, Peter Duffie, "State-Street" Eddie Fay, Lee Freed, Phil Goldstein, Dan Harlan, Brad Henderson, Chris Kenner, Simon Lovell, Edward Marlo, Jon Racherbaumer, Steve Reynolds, Daniel Rhod, Jean-Jacques Sanvert, Bob Sheets, Ken Simmons, Gerry Surma, Jean-Pierre Vallarino and many others.

Some of the routines and techniques include: Another Invisible 21-Card Trick, Ascanio’s Floating Double, Banded Together, Bravura Transposition, Calculated Invisible Toss, Caribbean Assembly, Chameleon Sandwich, Conn’s Opening, Don’t Be Superstitious, Eddie Marlo Lives!, Flutterless Bottom Deal, Graduates Interchange, In Situ Glimpse, Incomplete Surprise, Invisible Palm Festival, Janus Cards to Wallet, Kick-Counting On It!, Killer Kitson Miracle, Lollapalooza Prediction, Observation Test, On the Clip Palm, Playing the Light, Professional Color Vision, Psychic Leap Frog, Rhod Show, Rhumba Count Display, Royal Rollover, Sharper’s Image, Shifting, Whispering Thoughts, Stranger Succession Aces, Subtle Scoop Addition, Swivel Change, The Spectator Works Harder to Triumph, Total A-Band-a-Ment, Universal Mexican, Whispering Snitch and much more.

This exclusive volume is being published by Spade & Archer in 2014 and will be exclusively distributed by Meir Yedid. I will have a limited number of copies available at a special pre-publication price of $45 Postpaid). Thereafter the book will retail for $55. 

Anyone interested in ordering it through me, please send me an e-mail now at Joncards@aol.com if you are interested and I'll add you to my list. Or you can pre- order it through PayPal at geniijon@aol.com and save $10.

Otherwise eventually check with Meir Yedid or Harry Anderson.

Sounds Great!

Love this thing:
http://www.magigadgets.com/SoundzAmazing/SoundzAmazing.html

A lil too late to put it on my xmas list (and a bit expensive to do so)
but rest assured as soon as I have an extra hundy, I'm getting this gadget.

Programmable MP3 tracks (and an online library of sounds to choose from)
& the "Instant Radio" is built in.

The preview video is long (because you can do so much) and a bit cheesy.
But just imagine being live and seeing / HEARING sounds from no-where.
(and the reviews testify that it is loud)

Congratulations Magigadets: looks like you've got a winner.

Kopf!

Jared Kopf will be on Penquin this sunday Dec 22nd

If you like good card magic and want to improve your magicness
now is a good chance to see a guy who can prolly do that
(and who doesn't get out much)

http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/3888

Sidenote: I don't know Jared and have never met him nor seen him work...
this is just one of those "his reputation proceeds him" kinda thing

I mention that so no-one thinks I'm getting a kick-back or promoting a friend.

I'd never (ok: rarely) use my blog to do such a thing.
As mentioned in the title notes: this is a web-scrapbook for myself (to recall and things I like and / or would like to do) I hope to be free Sunday eve & to catch this event (but if not, will gladly buy the download)

Ok, that's my good card-deed for the day.
Trying to make the magi-world a lil better: one word at a time

Scamschool 300!

Congrats to Brian Brushwood who just produced the 300th (THREE HUNDRED) episode of the epic "Scam School" series.

This "school" has not been without some controversy in the Magic World (exposure and such) but IMO: it's a perfect place to #1: Learn some cool stuff & #2: Send people who are interested in magic but don't know where to go to learn decent magic.

I think Brian gives away "just enough" and always provides good credits and GREAT instruction on how to perform the effects. It's a great place to start and to revisit our current crop of online magi-crafting.

Plus, Brian's a good guy. I haven't seen him for awhile, but when we met many moons ago, I got nothing but good vibes from this cool cat.

Congratulations on a job well done. 300 of anything along these lines / this magnitude is impressive.
Kudos

Here's the episode which is a variant on the Bannon/Solomon (and even Elmsley, who started all this) "Power Poker" that doesn't require your spectator to know anything about poker to enjoy the effect. Good stuff.
http://youtu.be/QRoBslcqtok

Excuse me?

Doug Conn: Professional Interrupter!

Hello!
I'm good at what I do ...
and you will probably only regret my intrusion for the briefest of moments...

Venue.
Venue Venue Venue

Ugh (yeah, I just endured another gig where the piece of shit venue and/or talent co-ordinator gave as much thought about their close-up magician as they did the socks they put on that day)

I'm SO sick of strolling. (With all due respect to those who aren't: do you & do it up!)

So what? What to do?
Well: I've preached & re-preached that the preferred approach is a busking-style where your audience comes to you (part of a book I'm penning as we speak)

After 20-what years, I think
I am SO ready to do a professional performance.
Director, Lights, Maybe some music... the whole enchilada

Intimate: Maybe 100 (150 - 200 max)

Ferre' & Magic as 'Art'

Just a reminder that sometimes "just magic" can be art

Norbert Ferre' (France Champion of Magic)
Amazing, Simple and Funny
http://youtu.be/y174OHQvlrY  (balls)
http://youtu.be/vsBV0atNJz8   (cards)
http://youtu.be/I7XCaIw9yBs  (just goofin)

I saw this act during a "Society of American Magicians" convention
In NOLA at the wonderful Orpheum theatre (long since submerged by Katrina)
His act with a few balls and a deck of cards was the ONLY act to receive a standing O that night (amongst 1/2 a dozen of his peers including some top notch / big / illusion acts: Greg Frewin , etc.)
I've yet to forget his soulful performance and when I need reminding that our art is just that, I look at Ferre'

Open thanks to Norbert for caring enough to make his  magic so good.

If you have some free time and would like to see some more magic 'art'
I suggest you consider Arthur Trace (Stagecraft)
https://www.youtube.com/user/ArthurTrace/videos
His Ball routine is outstanding and his Egg Bag one of the best

Bravo to both of these wonderful guys.
I've mentioned them before & will likely do so again.
good magic is worth re-watching :)
Enjoy

Magicrap & beyond

I've met all too many youngsters that have learned magic from "You Tube" (and I can't say I blame them, there is an amazing amount of information online there... there's also an amazing amount of BAD magic online there)  In general for the total newbie I send them to the book shop to see if their interested enough to #1: make that much of an effort to try and learn & #2: follow up on #1 (by actually learning something from a book)

Man - oh - man, I can't imagine a more challenging endeavor than trying to wade through the muck of magicdom in this day and age. There is SO much CRAP out there, it's unreal. Go ahead, Take a look http://www.murphysmagic.com/ (but keep your wallet in your pocket! at least for now...)

If you are a beginner or know someone who is:
I generally suggest Josh Jay's "The Complete Course". It's well written with some strong material (some say too strong) and he includes DVD which can be immensely helpful when learning this stuff. For under $20, you can't go wrong (heck, I bought it for my kid) Here's the Amazon Link
http://www.amazon.com/Magic-Complete-Course-Joshua-Jay/dp/0761149872/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1386086991&sr=8-2&keywords=josh+jay

Note: Josh also runs Vanishing Inc (Along with Magi-bud Andi Gladwin) I think they have one of the best online magic shops in the business. Your can pretty much throw a dart and insure that whatever you're getting is gonna be good.
They've also released some great FREE books for the neophyte and you could do much worse than take a peek at Over and Under offers some great newbie advice: http://www.vanishingincmagic.com/magic-downloads/free-magic-downloads/under-over/  and once you're ready to tread into the deep end, check out "Magic in Mind"

Along with VInc there's some other great resources online.
One is Genii / Richard Kaufman's Magi-Pedia (think Wiki-Pedia, but all things magic)
Check it out:
http://geniimagazine.com/magicpedia/Main_Page
Here's one worth researching :) http://geniimagazine.com/magicpedia/Doug_Conn

Genii also has a forum with some well informed magi that visit their pages, it's well worth joining
http://forums.geniimagazine.com/
Another forum that's chock full of info is "The Magic Cafe" (though at over 20,000 members, you get ALOT of bad with the good.) use any info attained from anyone online carefully: http://www.themagiccafe.com/forums/index.php

Another wonderful resource (one that often offers some GREAT freebies) Is the
"Conjuring Arts Center"
http://conjuringarts.org/

and along similar lines:
Lybrary.com
an online e-book resourse with some truly wonderful freebies:
http://www.lybrary.com/free_ebooks.php?osCsid=97e6777ab24d9d9ada4ffb1a85e6c5d3

Perhaps the best course of action is to ask someone you trust. Meet some magi & acquire a mentor. Maybe Join a local magic club / organization, make some acquaintances.. Both the Society of American Magicians and the International Brotherhood of Magicians offer publications and clubs in most of the major cites in America. The fee for each is nominal and you get a magic publication (magazine) with each one that keeps you up to date with what's happening in the magic world.

There's lots of options and I just wanted to suggest those that who've limited their learning to youtube (or just video / DVD) that  you explore some of the other options available. I hope some of these options help someone somewhere out there.

If you need more help, I'm always available. Fire a question.

Murphy's Magic

Murphy's has been busy

I was introduced to their new review show over the holidays
"Unwrapped" featuring Kyle Marlett

It looks good, though initial viewings have been a bit 'happy'
no real negatives yet... so, it remains to be seen if this is a Murphy's commercial or really a review show

Each review show covers two items... here's the most recent (#10)
http://youtu.be/2PYTVr7eLH4 
I highly suggest going through the archives.

Seems they also have something called free trick friday in which a feature magi brings you a freebie effect.
all in all, I'd say their youtube channel is worth looking at. Check it out:

http://www.youtube.com/user/murphysmagic?feature=watch

Nice to see a company growing and keeping up with the times.

Ricky Jay

It's been a few days since I've posted (pardon me & life: the holiday where we celebrate indian massacare... I mean "giving thanks" was in the way... that and a minor bout of depression... ces-le-vis) The weather has me under the wind and ... I'll bite my tongue at  that.

Over the holiday I was  fortunate to have seen "Practices and Deceptions - The Life and Mentors of Ricky Jay". I found it good. It's wasn't as 'great' as I'd hoped, but it is good (and in a day / age when so many things regarding my art are not, that is a pleasure)

If you know me, you know I consider Mr. Jay to be one of magic's finest showman alive (and a great author to boot) In honor of that recent viewing, here's a couple clips. The one with Steve Martin (who happens to be a fellow magician) is pure brilliance. He is a treasure. I'll save you the upraise & fun, if you enjoy magic you'll watch this film and you will love it.

Ok, well, I guess the traditional youtube clip is appropriate.

I had Tyler Wilson in mind (for the spelling trick) as I was picking a segment to post
The rest of you can ponder why Ricky chose to open his set with and obvious display of skill and flourish...
I have answers... do you? (*if not, get some!) Ejnoy




speaking of Steve Martin: this is great
http://youtu.be/n7HuPDDNb4E

Ok, I'll do my best to stay on track with my postings
I hope the minor hiccup did not dismay my 3 readers.

... what is it... oh yes... "onward"

Ya never know

Nice surprise today:
I got a "repeat" booking today from a gig where I thought I bit the bullet.

I worked a Halloween party a few weeks ago and thought my performance was fair at best (walking into a 9pm NOLA "adult" party after working 3 hours of children church charity work prolly had something to do with that vibe.)

Guess ya never know (and really you don't.... you can guess, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder.)

I think what I'm ultimately trying to say is: you should never be your own judge.
A camera might tell you what flashes and if you're script is tight, but in the heat of battle all bets are off. For example that Halloween party night I had a drunk heckling me... alas he was so drunk, I couldn't understand what he was saying... Heckler don't bother me (I mean really: my performance style does not invite mean people ;)  But when present I do know how to handle them (10 years of working Bourbon St left me with fairly thick magic skin) alas, if I don't know what that heckler is saying, I'm a bit at a loss.
I guess that will be tonight's homework... What to do with incoherent hecklers.

I'm straying... pardon me, back to the point:

You should practice, rehearse, read, study, practice, rehearse and DO GOOD MAGIC (rinse repeat)

Perform with love & care for your audience. CARE
Believe in your magic and yourself. BELIEVE
and Practice, Rehearse and DO GOOD MAGIC

Be Nice, Be Interesting, Be Amazing

(and don't fake it *if you're gonna phone it in, you might as well stay at home)

The rest will fall in line.

:)

A+ Mem-Deck Tools

Tools and Websites for memorized deck work

http://www.stackview.com/index.html  Nick Pudar's amazing program
be sure to read about it (*download the user guide)
Nick's work is a incredible. The fact he gives it away: even more so!
Join/Read his "Musings" blog for some extra great info.

http://headinside.blogspot.com/2008/06/memorized-deck-online-toolbox.html
One of my all time fave "blogs" is Grey Matters http://headinside.blogspot.com/
Above is one of this pages regarding the Memorized pack
Wow

Vincent Hedan is a mem-master
On this page of his Blog: http://www.vincenthedan.com/magic/blog-iflipr.html
Vincent offers an online tool-tip on how-to memorize, a stack.
His blog offers lots more: Be sure to check the sidebar for some interesting info/effects

Simon Aronson is the godfather of Memdeck magic
His site has some invaluable readings and some GREAT effects using his stack, etc
http://www.simonaronson.com/magiciansonly.htm (read it ALL!)

If you've chosen the Aronson stack, you'll want to study the work of Eric Richardson
He's put more effort into composing effects for the above than anyone else I know of
Want to get into/out of New Deck Order? TOUR the site below:
http://www.vanishingincmagic.com/search/?term=eric%20richardson

There's more... I just have Aronson on the brain today and those are a few sites I had open this a.m.

As Always, I hope you find some of these useful
all for now, lots to work on today...

Happier Amp?

Just saw this in Walmart 

Interesting ... 

50amps

I-compatible

Bluetooth 

Mic in

Only $129

Worth a look maybe? 

Input anyone?

New Tricks

Ok, so, I've been slacking a bit the last couple days...
If my life was on "Press Your Luck" these days, I'd be getting all Whammies.
My Car is dead... likely a timing belt ($1000ish)
I'm having trouble inside the house (I don't like to get personal on here, but it sucks: not just inside: but even the neighbors are being rude)
and last but not least, I lost a good friend two days ago: Earl Guidry... A diving buddy who passed on the job / accident (to make it double sad, my daughters boyfriend is the guy who had to pull him out & try to save him.)  Geez, they say things come in threes... I hope that it.
There's other "tiny" crap, but that's the main stuff... "This too Shall pass eh?"

The wonderful news is: my beautiful grandaugther gets moreso each day.
The Doc has given her a perfect bill of health and her mommy Kaitlyn (my wonderful daughter) is doing a great job.

Meanwhile magic goes on.
Thought I'd take a second and mention a couple goodies that I've seen this week.
I'm gonna send all the traffic towards http://www.vanishingincmagic.com/

Josh and Andi have always been great guys to me IMO: to the magic community.
Geez, check out their free magic downloads: http://www.vanishingincmagic.com/magic-downloads/free-magic-downloads/  You could literally make a living doing just the magic they give a away on those pages.  The "Magic in the Mind" and "Under / Over" books in particular are amazing freebies that everyone should have... ok so, onto the good stuff:

Tricks of the week =

Unwritten: wow when you talk about visual magic, it doesn't get any  more visual that this.
I won't spoil it, just watch the demo:
http://www.vanishingincmagic.com/magic/card-magic/unwritten/

And then for stage or parlor guys, there's this gem. Cue the Magichttp://www.vanishingincmagic.com/magic/great-magic-for-big-crowds/cue-the-magic/
It's awesome... it's also a couple hundred bucks. Good.
I love the cue card idea... I have sense Steinmeyer introuduced "Cue Card Mentalism" in his Genii Colum... but his effect is off the chain. I. Want. One! (Iactually I wan't two...I'll need a back up)

Okay, that's all for now
Didn't really wanna even write at all, but figure I need to get back to some 'normalcy' LOLOL

New Book (Title)

Working on a new book (every failure begins somewhere!)

Busking in the Corporate World : Magic - Outside in!

I've got a cpl dozen chapters laid out
 &
I think I've got some valuable advice worth sharing
{**some really good conn-tent that I'm excited to share)
now....
all I need are words.

wanna have it done by xmas (so I can sell an extra 3-4 copies)

so, I guess the phrase: coming soon
is valid

tosh.o

I like tosh.o (Comedian with a web-short show on Comedy Central)

if you don't like it (he's a bit lewd)
or if you haven't seen him
you still might consider the clip below
it's a Halloween episode from 2011
and there is a moment @ 12:06 seconds in that is exceptionally hilarious
(and a few right before that... not to mention the payoff)

worth a lookeloo  IMHO

enjoy (aside from the obnoxious web-commercials; but hey, at least the content is available)

http://tosh.comedycentral.com/episodes/qvkdgw/october-25--2011---worst-magician-ever


I needed the laugh today
Thanks Tosh

Congress

I'm devoting today's post to some of the most notorious tricksters in the history of the world

I received this in my email. I rarely push political agenda's of any sort, but this seems reasonable...
Ask a Congressman/woman to act like an american. Yeah, I can back that.
I hope you can too.

Inspired by Harry Anderson, I use a line in my act:

"It's not really happening, it's just an illusion... very similar to congress at work"

Gets a great laugh, I'm giving you all the right to use this joke, pass it on
anything (I suggest emailing the below to 20 people)
It's time for a change.

In three days, most people in The United States of America will have this message.
>>>>>  
>>>>> This is one idea that really should be passed around
>>>>>  
>>>>> *Congressional Reform Act of 2013
>>>>>  
>>>>> 1. No Tenure / No Pension.
>>>>>  
>>>>> A Congressman/woman collects a salary while in office and receives no pay when they're out of office.
>>>>>  
>>>>>  
>>>>> 2. Congress (past, present & future) participates in Social Security.
>>>>>  
>>>>>  
>>>>> All funds in the Congressional retirement fund move to the Social Security system immediately. All future funds flow into the Social Security system and Congress participates with the American people. It may not be used for any other purpose.
>>>>>  
>>>>> 3. Congress can purchase their own retirement plan, just as all Americans do.
>>>>>  
>>>>> 4. Congress will no longer vote themselves a pay raise. Congressional pay will rise by the lower of CPI or 3%.
>>>>>  
>>>>> 5. Congress loses their current health care system and participates in the same health care system as the American people.
>>>>>  
>>>>> 6. Congress must equally abide by all laws they impose on the American people.
>>>>>  
>>>>> 7. All contracts with past and present Congressmen/women are void effective 12/31/13. The American people did not make this contract with Congressmen/women.
>>>>>  
>>>>> Congressmen/women made all these contracts for themselves. Serving in Congress is an honor not a career. The Founding Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, so ours should serve their term(s), then go home and back to work.
>>>>>  
>>>>> If each person contacts a minimum of twenty people then it will only take three days for most people (in the U.S. ) to receive the message. Don't you think it's time?
>>>>>  
>>>>> THIS IS HOW YOU FIX CONGRESS!
>>>>>  
>>>>> If you agree with the above, pass it on. If not, just delete.

BeLIEve it or not

So, I just watched "BeLIEve" (2 episodes of 'season 1')

I was prepared to join the haters and was ready to be disappointed, but overall
I enjoyed Criss Angel's return to TV

http://www.spike.com/shows/criss-angel-believe
this really is a GREAT website with some awesome content. Check it out if you missed the show... heck, check it out anyway.

There were two initial episodes:
#1 "Buried Alive" (which, while well done: was IMO was the weaker of the two)
#2 "Blind" in which (while blindfolded) Criss walks a high 'beam' with a 2 ft gap in the center of it.

Both had some great 'extra' magic scenes.... a good mix of close-up, platform, stage and also an 'inside' peep at some of the trouble we'll go through to fool folks (the moving room, unintentional blindness, etc.) I like the slick / brisk format.

I used to be upset at his use of TV as a medium to project effects that would not really be seen in the real world.. but the bottom line is: as long as he is able to suspend disbelief (at least for the moment) then, power to him for using the tools at his disposal (no different than a magician who always sits / laps or perhaps one who wears gimmicks / sleeves, etc. 

Overall these effects that are 'too good to be true' (switching a mans legs  with a womans legs?) are just that: too good ... too perfect if you will. In the words of uncle Ben "With great power comes great responsibility"  and in the words of Walter White: "Tread Lightly"

alas: Criss still has a long way to go in his presentation (but that's easy for me to say: I haven't presented 100's (1000s?) of diff effects.. it's hard enough to do 10 well. I can't imagine learning 100's)
Fortunately, someone has figured out that they can fast forward through Criss' shortcomings and we can avoid that downtime & simultaneously we all get to see more magic. Win/win.

Nice to see Angel has surrounded himself with some good minds. Banacheck is one of the best in the biz, Malloy is an amazing creator... and the youngblood like Jesse (Fienberg?) and Krysten Lambert  are being given a chance of a lifetime (and hopefully being paid well as they do so)
http://www.spike.com/shows/criss-angel-believe/bios
There's mention of a 'variety' touring show... it'll be interesting to see if/what becomes of that.

At the end of the day / week / month: no one else has stepped up to take the spot as "The Magician" (on tv... the 'one' america craves) and until someone does, we can rest in peace that Criss is doing as good a job that can be done (IMO)

I have a feeling that most magicians who watch him and/or read this will disagree and dislike him. If you're one of those people, I suggest you put yourself in his shoes and think if you could do better... and if you can: get on it... I'll await your appearance on Spike ;)

I'm guessing I've said too much already (most would rather spend time bashing Criss than pointing out his adequacies)  I'll let others speak negatively: just want to offer some positive food for thought. 

Gracie!

Well, she's here. Gracie arrived into the world @ 6pm last night.
A Beautiful girl @ perfect 7.1 lbs. Check it out: A pix is worth a 1000 words: here's two

Long story short:I'm Overwhelmed with joy & love.
Can't wait to hold my first granddaughter today... wow. 

Happy to know baby Gracie has arrived healthy & surrounded by love. Kaitlyn Conn and Bryce Bailes will have plenty of support & care. Their transition into parenthood should flow quite smoothly. I couldn't be more happy for them.

 I can't wait to see Mimi Angela Doyle "Aunt" Emily Conn (& co) as they hold & helps guide Grace through life... I'm extra happy that GREAT (and I do mean great!) grandma Arlene F. Siereveld (my ma) got to be here for this special occasion (and heh, her b-day is tomorrow!) Crazy busy, loving times. #feelingblessed

Here's a link to a short youtube clip of papa & babe right after the birth
Hello Gracie!
http://youtu.be/webjTOP0Xtc

I'm sure there will be plenty more... I'll try to get back to focusing on magic soon... forgive me while I glow in the glory of the love of my first grandchild. It's a beautiful thing.
Time to get the day rolling an get over there to share some love!

I Hope everyone who's eyes cross this page feel (at least) 1/2 as blessed as I do today.
Life is good

G-Day!

To my local Brethren / Magi
If I miss our weekly gathering (again) I hope I'll be forgiven:
Today is the day I become a grandpa (sheesh, how time flies: It seems like just yesterday, I was bringing her home from the hospital in Lake Charles (while Mama healed from a C-section / infection: I got to play mr. mom alone for a week or so)
My daughter Kaitlyn (21 the pregger in pink) is having our first grand-child: Gracie
She's being induced this a.m.(10/13) and god willing things will go smooth and I'll be a grandpa sometime this afternoon... in the interim, I hope the locals with forgive me as I miss another soiree
Maybe next week fellas.

LOVE YOU KAITLYN! Good luck today & I'll see ya soon!

Left to right:
Kaitlyn,
(Aunt) Kathy (Angies Sis),
(Kaitlyns lil sis) Emily (my heart)
(Cousin) Sandy
(Mama/love) Angie
and big Sister Sydney
all such purty ladies
... I love you all!

Busking 2013

Started the fall season yesterday

I was sucky, but slowly got better

In a month or two I'll be up to speed (& sick of it all) heh... Nice to have lots of fires & many irons

Speaking of hotness... Heading out to swear off a few more pounds; all while making smiles with childlike wonder

SOUND right!?

COLOR me red ?

MOVEing towards the 1/4

Happy Sunday all!!

Goal; done by 3 & home watching Saints take down the Pats!

Tomorrow: grandpa day!

The 3 Gaffers

Ok, so eon's ago, this company approached me, asking if they could include my 'Pip Trip' effect in their first 'Black Tiger' (or whatever) gaffed deck. Being the nice guy I am (and knowing Brad needs all the help he can get in making his c__K bigger) I said yeah, sure, just make sure I get credit (**apparently I should have stipulated that was a one time deal and my mental property was not his to profit off over the next 4-5 gaffed decks he released... I swear, watching JM demo my effect using their inferior handling just irks the fuck outta me...ggrrrr) If you EVER agree to anything with this company, Please PLEASE get an iron clad notarized agreement.

So, now (via the samE company I gotta listen to DaniEl Madison ramble about how my effect (a motivated color change... a MOTIVATED color change) is 'cute' and diss it... and then he talks about how he hates gaffs: heh... as he goes onto promote a gaffed pack

So, DM' is 'working' with along with a couple other magi (who don't perform for a living) they all do good "cardistry" ... and apparently bad sleight of hand (at least that's the story Madison has bragged about when he got caught stealing in a card game)

I don't know wuzzup with Morrelli?  He seems like a smart creative kid.  I thought he'd made it to DC's creative team... I guess Dave stays rich by staying tight... that or things didn't workout?  I'll take the 5th for now (and hope for the best)

Sidenote: I've got huge respect for Eric Jones, over the years I've watched him claw his way through the ranks with great purpose and honor: he's got great chops, great charisima and I know he can perform. Why he would choose to make a living shoving magic down peoples throats is beyond me (100 tricks a month? do we really need that many? no...  we need 10... total) Magic is a performance art... and yes, it's also a 3rd world geek hack sales market (what do you wanna do?)

I suppose the apparent safety net a magic bubble offers is warm and cozy. And if the pushers are paying you enough... Well enjoy the ride (but please keep performing, because, when the well runs dry... and it will... one day, you might need to use your skills for the powers of good.)

Oh, I suppose I should mention: If you'd like to waste 7 minutes by watching these three guys spending some kids money in vegas (and dissing magic while flipping cards around) here's the place to see it:
http://www.ellusionist.com/gaff-system-madison-morelli-jones.html

No, you won't see any tricks... hmmm not even one?
I recall Eric talking about this a couple years ago and I'm sure there are gonna have some good ideas
but, no way in hell is Elllusionist ever getting another dime from me. They could have a lifelike vagina gaff and I still wouldn't buy it.

If you watch the clip above and decide that you have just seen an ad for a product you might want... then I might suggest leaving me alone... just a time saver for us both.

yeah, I'm ranty today.
it's for the powers of good
Okay, I'm done
Peace
and good luck DM
(geez, I used to think you were cool... as cool as the fonz I guess)

Cardpetition

I’ve been wondering why I’ve seen such unique backed brands of USPC Co. Cards popping up in my local Walmart &/or Walgreens lately

 

Well , well, the floodgates have opened

 

If you haven’t visted their site lately... Check it out:

http://www.shopbicyclecards.com/Bicycle-Cards-C42.aspx

 

D&D , HOPC enjoy the getting while the getting is good... USPC just upped the ante.

I for one can vouch for the quality of these vanity packs. 
I’ve been buying every one I see and I’ve yet to get a stinker in the bunch

 

Wow (drool)

Dozens (and dozens) of GREAT / interesting decks
(and at AFFORDABLE prices... Screw this $9 deck bs... 6 decks for $21 ! Yeah baby)

 

Ok, well, I just found this out... so , I'm gonna go peruse the goods (and the fine print ;)

Happy shopping!

Scrapping

Nice to be noticed by The Magic Scrapbook (a couple times in this past month ;)

If you haven't heard of this site, it's based in the UK & keeps their readers abreast of the latest news in the magi world

URL;

http://www.magicians-scrapbook.co.uk/todays-scrapbook-entries/

I suggest you Bookmark & Return often

Always an interesting looksee

cheers! Tnx fellas!

New Toys... I mean... Magic!

As mentioned in my last post, I visited quite a few shops over the last month and in that time I managed to put a few new miracles into my bag of tricks.

I got some great utility items. A couple sets of cups and balls: I've been wanting a smaller set (I've been using Animal Babe's for the last couple years and now that he's out of biz, I figure it might be time to switch to something available.) I'm anxious to switch back to the vernon'esque routine which involves more audience interaction and will provide a bigger punch (all while the smaller cups allow for powerful loads at a smaller space-tag) The 2 sets I got were a #1 copper LeMagia set and #2 a smaller Chromed Paul Fox Style cup: I think these are made my magic makers, but I'm gonna pretend I don't know that. Let's just say the price was right ;)

Speaking of utilities: I also got a firewallet (with a zipper card/bill to/load) and a vernet boon. Last but certainly not least: a Josh Jay belt clip that will keep my pockets a bit more clear.

I didn't buy much in the way of new tricks (there rarely is much worth buying) but one that I did buy which I have no problem recommending is Alan Rorrison's Linkey. It is a well made prop that is really devious. I'm not sure why I need to link a rubber band onto a key, but when I do, I'm ready!

All in all, not a stinker in the bunch. I'm happy with all the above and if you were thinking of purchasing any of the above, I would highly recommend any of them. The prop I'm most excited about breaking in is the T-T-Tip boon. I can't wait to reveal those miracles!"

But for new trickies, the winner goes to LINKEY. Well done Mr. Rorrison!
demo:
http://youtu.be/Qpw8cqMIIks

Brick and Mortars / Magic Shops

While on my last lecture tour (4000 miles and then some)
I couldn't help but stop by (and buy a lil something in) every B&M magic shop.
Sadly, those were few and far between...
so, before I start this ramble, let me begin by saying:
IF YOU'RE LUCKY TO HAVE A MAGIC SHOP IN YOUR HOME TOWN: SUPPORT IT!
Go buy your cards, your magazines, a new trick, your utility items.... yes, you might have to spend a buck or two more (is it more than shipping") It helps insure that shop will be there when you really need it one day (and you will...) There's also a good chance the shop owner or one of his/her customers can/will help you with a routine you've been working on. The pluses are immense.

Flashback:When I was a teen growing in the art of magic, I had my choice of three shops in Cinn Ohio (Venture 3, Haines House of Cards and Bill Brewe's Magic Emporium... of the 3 one remains)  *It is worth mentioning that Artie Kidwell runs a shop in Covington KY across the river. http://www.artiesmagic.com/ Artie is a lifer, a pro... if you need something, he's a good guy to ask
 
.












It's really sad that the new generation of magi won't have the live hands on experience so many of us grew up with every week. I was lucky enough to work at several shops and even was part owner of one for a few years:(RIP Big Easy Magic.) Honorable mention to LaRock's Magic & Balloons (Mostly balloons these days) Ken Fletcher's Magic Masters (where Mike Abston and Greg Gibson taught me to demonstrate and SELL) and last but certainly not least: Warpo's Amazed and Amused (where I had the honor of being called manager, but I really felt I was just a big part of a happy family: Thanks Warpo!)  I learned more about our art/performing/interacting and the inner workings while working those counters than any other form of magi-education available . Ah memories... (a crazy part of me wants to do it again.)

Reminds me of the joke: How do you make a million dollars running a magic shop?
Start with two million ;)

Ok, So anyway, while on tour...

Happily, I did run into a few GREAT shops and each shop I visited was  fun experience. The two stand-outs were Big Guy's Magic in Pewaukee WI (yes, I was in WI) and the other was Max's magic shop in Albuquerque NM.

Here's some pics and links should you ever find yourself about / around

http://maxsmagicshop.com/ Max is a devious guy and has an incredible selection of original merchandise (some of which is online:his MACCAN and his Mental Killer are both top notch magic apps)  His shop is also one of the most well rounded shops I've ever seen. Note: If you life in the area and are not taking part of his local membership 'club' offerings you're missing out on some serious bonuses  (practice room, % off, Video, rehearsal space, etc etc etc) Plus: ya got Max there to help ya out! Wow. I wanna be there! Seriously, off all the places I visited, I miss Albuquerque the most... hmm I'm trying to keep the pix to a minimum: You're not seeing his intimate stage, his member practice room, the awesome scenery outside the joint, etc etc etc.  Go to Albuquerque & visit Max's



http://www.bigguysmagic.com/

Big guy is a GREAT big guy (key on great)
His shop is chock full of great magic and helpful service guys
Big also has an extra features room where parties, performances and lectures can happen.
and after youre done soaking in the scenery inside: go out and check out the lake view.
This wonderful / out of the way shop is a mini-miracle & the cast of misfits that run it are awesome!




Bruce Chadwick also has a WONDERFUL place in Ft Worth Texas (A great party room for a kids party and a warehouse full of major illusions) The WONDERFUL advantage to each of these spots was that they housed a theater environment for shows (or lectures) This gives everyone a chance to see our variety arts presented in style and grace (as opposed to a greasy garage or ... oh, nm) Bruce' focus is on 'bigger' prop magic and that's not my forte' but I found him (& Cindy) to be swell folks and look forward to the day my feet cross their threshold again. IF you get the chance, ya need to go visit (and spend some $$$) at "The Illusion Warehouse"

Bruce Chadwick's Collection:

this is a Bruce' Personal collection ( thanks for the peepshow Bruce!) His counter is plentiful and his party room is a great place for lectures and magic shows (his illusion workshop and work is amazing)
If you live in / near FT Worth and want a quality experience: go see Bruce


I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Eric (& Kim) Olson's wonderful "Wizardz" theater in Kissimee FL where every Monday night, you get a chance to see some of the worlds best close-up magicians. I was happy to perform there in august and can't wait to return in January!


Wizardz in Kissimee: A Great Attraction: http://www.wizardzmagictheater.com/


Another place I wanted to see, but time was not permitting was George Robinson's "Viking Hachen" manufacturing in McAllen TX (George makes the Viking Line and now the Collectors workshop run and more) This is one of the oldest Magic Manufacturers in North America

OK,
Well, I was going to do a review of a few of the goodies I picked up on the road.
I think I've rambled enough for one post... we'll save the trick 'reviews' for the next blog.

Maybe tomorrow. Guess I Should mention: www.dougconn.com/shop/
You could come buy my house and by stuff... but, it's kinda dirty. I'm too busy blogging and practicing card tricks I"ll never use. Email me if ya need help.

Note, I sent out a newsletter yesterday and I've yet to hear from the winners. Check your inbox.

Mom is in town and my first grandchild is due any day, I'm bound to be busy this week, but will post ASAP.  Till then.. Conn / gone.

Mago

We interrupt your regularly scheduled program to bring you this program:

Straight from the Rio Grande:

http://www.krgv.com/news/magic-club-captivates-valley-residents

Enjoy! (& thanks to George Robinson who took time from his day to share the clip ;)

Green Paisley Bikes

Found These at Walgreens today:

They came in purple too... But those looked a bit "feminine"

I was happy to discover white borders & matching jokers (& the cards are in GREAT shape and handle fantastic) alas there's a dull green border on each face and the court cards come across washed out.

I might use the jokers for something, but this pack is purty much going right to the "collectors" pile.

Overall; I'm happy to see Bicycle trying new things & putting those efforts out to public market. Thanks USPCC ... Now can you please make a deck I want to use!

Ok, blabber blabber.... Back to data entry. I have a contest to prepare for!

Makin a list

Checkin it twice...

Gonna find out who wins some sweet schwag!

All the names / emails I collected throughout the South/Mid/West lecture tour are being entered into my mailchimp account and three of these cards/names will be picked to win! 

There are 3 separate giveaways w / $100 in prizes:

 #1 a Connjuring / Magic lagniappe DVD package ($35 value)

#2 a "Pinky Swear"* DVD ($15 Value) Learn the Pinky count and pass & tricks with the combo

*a Trcky.com production

#3 a *"Built to Last" DVD ($50 Value) My lifes work on two disks: 3 1/2 hours of magic

*a (beautiful) Trcky.com production

The next mailing will go out to the entire list with the winners names 

& 

Just to insure everyone is a winner:

I'll be including a new vid clip & an underground / unpublished utility item

So; if ya haven't signed up...

Now is the time!

To join the krewe, there's a space at the right & / or the bottom of each page to sign up @

www.dougconn.com

I'm publishing this blog today (Oct 1/13) at 5:30 pm and will be publishing the new elist tomorrow at this time. Winners will posted here, there ^ & everywhere (a random Hofzinser reference)

Ok, I'd say that's enough blabbering for one day! See ya tomorrow.

Rubber Band Star

First of all: a head's up to anyone looking for lecture references,
you'll find that post prior to this one.

In the news,
I went ahead and put the Rubber Band Star Flourish online
You can find it on my YouTube channel (youtube.com/connjure)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdIB535m7rI&feature=player_embedded

&/or it's also posted within my Magi-Class page:
 http://dougconn.com/learn-magic-online/   (password: Marlo)

Hope some of ya find this useful
Look for the third / over the shoulder clip... I think it's the best way to learn this thing.
Good luck.

Honorable Mentions / Lecture References

These are some titles I find myself constantly referring too in my lectures. Thought it would be nice to make a list so people have a reference page:

 

Fiber Optics Extended: Richard Sanders

(Rope magic ala' George Sands)

Daryl's Rope magic: 3 volumes DVD

(& if you're lucky enough to find his first two books; Secrets of a Puerto Rican Gambler & "For your Entertainment Pleasure" great stuff)

William Tell Knot: Genii Mag by Hugh Lambert
also (re)published by Vernon in a Karl Fulves Zine (as "Bow and Arrow Knot")
Thanks to Bill Mullins for uncovering this info

David Roth big book or his first three videos (*one coin flurry & misc techniques & "original Chinese coin assembly" / Shadow Coins)

The Magic Of Michael Ammar (big book)

& His Ez to Master Money Miracles #2 (DVD)

Dean Dills "Extreme Dean" 2 volume DVD set
Dean has some AMAZING work on the matrix plot (& lots of other great magic)

MINT (Marlo in New Tops) *MP side steal (o sale in ebook form this week for only $9.95! wow, I paid $50 for the hardbound version) http://www.llepub.com/

Paul Cummins: www.fasdiu.com (look for the TOMT preview)

Paul wrote "Tricks of my Trade - The magic of Doug Conn"
& his site has a preview of the book that features "Chameleon Sandwich"

Rich Aviles Trcky.com

Rich produced my DVDs & his site has creative inspirations & great downloads

Tyler Wilson's: Cherry Villain

A rising star (that's risen) Join the site, thank me later

(& buy Reinventing the Real, it's GREAT)

Ok, I'm sure I'm missing something, but that's nuff for now.
Email Me for missing info

Back on the road.... 2 more cities to go.

Tucson & Oklahoma City... onward!

Hope to See some of ya out there!

Peace,

Doug

Remember The Alamo

FYI 

9-16-13

Doug Conn Lecture - San Antonio

HOST:  San Antonio I.B.M. Ring 18

DATE:  Monday, September 16, 2013

TIME:  7:00 PM

LECTURE LOCATION:  

Veterinary Referral and Emergency Clinic (VREC) - Conference Room in building across the street (just east of VREC on Sonterra Blvd.)

607 E. Sonterra Blvd., Suite 102

San Antonio, TX  78258 

See ya there! Bring a friend!

On the road again....

On the road ...

so far things are good: nice lecture in Huntsville (followed by a flat tire which wasn't so nice but I survived)

I moved on & had a great time in Louisville Kentucky and I am now pulling out heading west towards Pewaukee Wisconsin (outside of Millwaukee) I will be at "Big Guys magic shop" on Thursday evening : September 12 

come out if you're near by 

would love to see you there:

http://www.bigguysmagic.com/brick-n-mortar/

https://www.bigguysmagic.com/doug-conn-lecture-advance-tickets-20-00-25-at-door/

Curious and New from CARC

I just downloaded the Conjuring Arts Research Center's latest "Summer Arts Reading" offering:
The Discoverie of Witchcraft (a .pdf copy of one of the original 250 1st editions)
I look forward to working through the tome. I hope some some of you have taken the opportunity they offered many months ago (that I blogged about several weeks ago! ;)

So...
While there, I clicked their "Curious and New" button
wow

There are some AMAZING / MAGICAL  things on this page
(that have nothing to do with 'magic' as we know it)

Richard Wiseman vanishing a Skull
Chinese Boxing Cards
Michael Moschen's Ted Talk (and more)

The page is chock full of interesting stuff &
If you're into the variety arts, the collection of videos (etc) is must watch internet TV

Check it out:
http://conjuringarts.org/category/curious-and-new/