At a special meeting this month, S.A.M. Assembly 23 presented longtime member Ray Eyler with its second annual SAMMY award, honoring his lifetime contributions to the assembly and the world of magic. Following a dinner in Ray’s honor, attendees repaired to the National Press Club’s Zenger Room where the award ceremony was begun. Buddy Smith led the speakers, telling everyone, “Get comfortable. This is going to take a while.” Buddy regaled us with tales from his longtime friendship with Ray, concluding on an emotional note about the nature of true friendship and true love of the art of magic. It was a tough act to follow, but Augie Arnstein and Charlie “Chazoo” Zuis were up to the challenge and told their own stories of hanging out with Ray. Assembly 23 President Lars Klores then presented Ray with an honorary plaque, and Ray made a heartfelt and humble speech in which he stressed that while he appreciated the award, it was his love for magic that made him give as much to others as he has.
Toward that end, Ray then called up his son Lee and grandson Max, and the entire Eyler family presented to the club a 90-minute version of their latest lecture, “Inside a Close-Up Session.” Among the highlights were an “Eternal Purse” routine, an Elongated Lady Routine, and one of Lee Eyler’s specialities: a 3 cup and 3 ball routine where only one of the cups and one of the balls are visible at one time. Lee also gave a mini-lecture on card-splitting, and offered breakout sessions for attendees at the end of the lecture.
It was a great night honoring Ray Eyler, one of the stalwarts of Assembly 23: a true class act and the apparent scion of a local magic dynasty.
Ray begins his lecture, treating attendees to over a half century of magical knowledge.
Ray's son, Lee, one of the foremost card men in the world.
S.A.M. Assembly 23 Magicians watch Lee's portion of the lecture.
Charlie "Chazoo" Zuis roasts his old pal Ray
Buddy Smith, giving a heartfelt appreciation
Augie Arnstein, roasting Ray
