Society of American Magicians - Assembly 23

November 2010 Meeting Event Reminder

2010-11-16T15:31:00.000-05:00

You don't wanna miss the SAM Assembly 23 Special Presentation Event tomorrow night! We will be hosting "An Evening With Michael Vincent" on November 17th at the National Press Club in downtown DC. As always, dinner will be served in the McClenden Room and the presentation will begin shortly after meeting announcements at 8pm.

SAM Assembly 23 members are always FREE! If you are or know someone who is a member of a SAM group but not assembly 23 the fee is only $10. Any non SAM guests are $20.

You are also invited to join Michael Vincent AND A SPECIAL GUEST at dinner (before the presentation) around 6pm. If you are interested please RSVP to either of the following email addresses: rushint@yahoo.com or matgik@hotmail.com. Space is very limited and this SPECIAL dinner will NOT be held at the National Press Club. Don't Miss Out!

SAM 23 Whisperings (Audio Podcast): Michael Vincent

2010-11-12T23:15:00.000-05:00

In this episode I interview Michael Vincent and talk about his latest presentation, "An Evening With Michael Vincent", in preperation for his visit to SAM Assembly 23 on November 21st. This is a brand new presentation for 2011. Michael has spent the last 18 months formulating this presentation in his mind. Most lectures by their very nature attempt to impart useful information but unfortunately in some cases, they don't teach, inspire or transform the status quo.

You may follow this link to hear our interview:
An Interview With Michael Vincent

"The Craft of Michael Vincent" - A Special November Event!

2010-11-10T15:13:00.001-05:00

"The Craft of Michael Vincent"

This is a brand new presentation for 2011.

Michael has spent the last 18 months formulating this presentation in his mind. Most lectures by their very nature attempt to impart useful information but unfortunately in some cases, they don't teach, inspire or transform the status quo.

Michael has attempted to transform the "traditional magic lecture" into an interactive conversation, which entertains, educates and inspires.

With this new conversation, Michael will address:

The Correct Attitude
Why are you doing Magic and for Whom?
Rapport and Connection
Technical Mastery
Audience Attention Control
Classic routines and their Construction - (through performance and explanation)
Contribution and Service
The Two Most important Questions?

These are just some of the topics covered in a dynamic and experiential conversation. To fully benefit from this conversation, Michael requests that you come fully prepared to participate. It is important to mention that this presentation is not a passive experience; you will be required to bring a notebook and questions that you would like addressed relating to any aspect of magic that concerns you. You will be required to bring one effect that you consider to be your signature effect. This effect is your calling card, which defines you as a magical artist.

Michael is fully qualified to engage in this type of conversation. His ten years experience in corporate communication workshops and facilitation conversations has given him the necessary skills in dynamic listening and delivery, so rest assured he will listen actively and assist you in transforming your concerns into new horizons.

Egg Bag - September 2010

2010-09-30T07:44:00.000-04:00

Hello,

This month's meeting began with a discussion about November's guest lecture - Michael Vincent. Many of the members in attendance seemed very excited about the prospect of having Michael come to us from the UK. I would like to personally thank fellow member Matt Hiller for initially bringing us the news about Michael Vincent's availability and for getting the ball rolling.

Following the News and Announcements we proceeded with September's theme - "Show and Tell Us … Who". In this month's theme each member performed an effect that was taught to them or inspired by one or more of their favorite magicians. Our members came up with some very interesting effects and revelations.

Starting us off was …

Erik Feinberg - who performed a few iPod app tricks including: "X Card" by Filipe Freitas, "iKnow Your Age" by iMagic Apps, and "No Freakin Way" by Carl R Andrews. His inspiration was Steve Jobs - the man who help make these iPod magic/entertainment apps possible.

Matt Hiller - presented "The Force That Can Not Be". This was a very interesting effect using a piece of wire that magically reshaped itself into the form of the spectator's card. Matt stated that he learned this effect from Eugene Burger, a highly respected magician.

Theo Rushin - demonstrated the separation between girls and boys by performing the "Ultimate Oil and Water". I was inspired by Dwight Redman to learn and perform more packet tricks. I found them to be a great way to entertain someone with a effect that is quick, visual, and impactful at a moments notice.

Scott McDonald - entertained us with the "Sailor Card Trick". It was taught to him by another sailor as one way to get free drinks.

Hugh Turley - entertained us with a wonderful effect involving a Chop Stick, two rings, and a Chinese Princes Robe. The effect was called "The Chinese Princess Trick". He learned this effect from Bob MCallister and then in turn taught it to James Munton.

Noland Montgomery - graced us with a portion of his street magic act by performing a routine involving a coin purse frame and sponge balls. Carl Andrews was his inspiration for his routine.

Dwight Redman - performed for us an oldie but goodie, "The Magic Ring Escape". His routine involved a borrowed ring that was trapped and locked onto a brass bolt with a nut and lock. Under the cover of a hank he was able to effortlessly make the ring vanish only to reappear in a locked box. He bought this effect a long time ago from the famed Al Cohen.

And that brought an end to September's meeting. The theme for next month - October 20th - will be "Show and Tell Us … How". This will be a bit of a teach-in for our members. Each member in attendance will demonstrate an effect and/or routine and hopefully answer one or more of the following questions:

HOW to make this effect more entertaining.
HOW did I change this effect to make it my own.
HOW does this effect/routine fit my character.

I would like to thank everyone who attended this month's meeting. Your attendance contributes much to the success of this organization. We value each and every one of your opinions and views and I feel that we all can learn something from each other. I look forward to seeing each of you at our next meeting.

Thank You,

Theo Rushin Jr.
Vice President - S.A.M. Assembly 23

Egg Bag - August 2010

2010-09-15T08:36:00.000-04:00

Summertime brings about warm weather, sunny days, and family vacations. So there was no surprise that our happy little group of Compeers was somewhat smaller than usual. We began to gather for dinner in our usual meeting place, the backroom lounge of the National Press Club, but found that the previous storms disabled some of the lighting in that room. Fortunately we found refuge in the well lit area of the balcony dinning space.

In the absence of our newly elected President, Cristian Lavidra, Theo Rushin lead the meeting starting with a few announcements including:

The Magician’s Alliance of Easter States convention starts August 19th.
The NEW S.A.M. Assembly 23 web site is complete. All that is left is to acquire the domain name and hosting account.

The announcements were followed by the drawing for the Larry West Prize – a $100 gift certificate or check to be spent at the magic shop of the winner’s choosing! The Winner of the 2010 Larry West Prize was awarded to ... (drum roll please) … Noland Montgomery!

The theme for this night’s meeting was “Show and Tell Us … Why”. In accordance with the theme each magician must perform an effect AND then tell us “WHY” they chose that effect. Many of the members were caught by surprise with this announcement but everyone stepped up to the challenge and entertained the group with one or more tricks and their explanation.

First up was …

Noland – started off with a trick involving a borrowed, signed $10 bill. He followed it with a card trick and then finished by finding the borrowed, signed $10 bill in a Sharpie marker. Why? He wanted to test out a new routine that he can use in his street magic set.

Turley – started with a gag, Bed Bugs. This was followed by Turley’s Triangle, a fantastic effect where no matter how many dimes were added to a triangle of dimes each side always added up equally. Why? He just wanted to do what he knows best.

Dwight – performed a ring penetration onto a small sword. The effect was called Samurai Sword. Why? He wanted to dust off this old effect and present it to the group (at the request of yours truly)

Matt – performed the Butterfly Effect (using the 2004 movie as its premise) using a deck of cards. Why? He really likes Joshua Jay.

Apurea – performed a mentalist effect by exploring the mind. His effect was called Intuition (evidently I had Julia Roberts on my mind). Why? He wanted to practice this effect for an upcoming performance.

Eric – performed the mini Zig-Zag, Ring on Wand Box, Clearly Mental, and Cubio. Why? He wanted to try out some of the oldies but goodies.

Lars – performed Card in Zip Lock Bag (very similar to Witness) and Solo. Why? Those effects just happened to be what he was working on.

Theo – performed Rubik Predicted as he spoke about his obsession for the Rubik’s Cube. Why? I really do love the Rubik’s Cube.

That wrapped up our meeting for Wednesday, August 18th. Next month’s theme will be “Show and Tell Us … Who” where, each member must perform a trick that was inspired by one or more of their favorite magicians AND then reveal to us who that magician is.

I would like to thank those who chose to brave our hot summer weather, managed to fight the downtown traffic, and was able to survive our strong summer storms in order to attend our meeting. Our assembly offers more than a chance show off the latest trick. It also helps to foster community, fellowship, and education in our magical arts. Every gathering of our local assembly 23 brings about a chance to strengthen the bonds between each of our members and represent to the world around us that we are indeed a part of “the oldest and most prestigious magician’s society in the world!”

Thank You,

Theo Rushin Jr.
Vice President - S.A.M. Assembly 23

David Acer in Washington, D.C., Wednesday, May 19

2010-05-03T10:09:00.001-04:00

S.A.M. Assembly 23 is proud to host the great David Acer on Wednesday, May 19 at 8:00 P.M. Admission is free for SAM 23 members and $20 for non-members. Lecture will take place in the Zenger Room at the National Press Club, 529 14th Street, 13th Floor.

The David Acer Lecture

Featuring

David Acer

David Acer is a Gemini-award-nominated writer and comedian who has done crazy things on dozens of television shows around the world. The Gemini Awards is the Canadian equivalent of the Emmys. David has appeared on a multitude of international specials: BBC England’s The Secret World of Magic, NHK Japan’s F.I.S.M. 2000, Discovery’s Grand Illusions; a plethora of Canadian comedy classics: CBC’s Just For Laughs, CTV’s Comedy Now, CHCH’s Comedy at Club 54; and an array of American prime-time standards: A&E’s Comedy on the Road, ABC’s America’s Funniest People; not to mention live at The Riviera in Las Vegas, The Magic Castle in Hollywood, and 10 times at the Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal. But younger viewers are more likely to recognize him as “Doubting Dave” from Discovery Kids' Mystery Hunters, which garnered him two Gemini nominations for Best Writing in a Children’s Non-Fiction Series, and the publication of his new book, “Gotcha: 18 Amazing Ways to Freak Out Your Friends.”

As a lesser known sideline to these slightly more public careers, David has been performing, inventing and publishing original close-up magic for over 20 years, beginning in 1984 with Perfect Magicʼs release of his popular coin-through-deck routine, Quartermain. In 1990, David teamed up with The Camirand Academy to release Nomen Omen, one of the most clever versions of the classic “name deck” available.

Since then, he has written three critically-acclaimed books of ingenious effects: Natural Selections, Natural Selections II, Random Acts of Magic, released a handful of popular instructional DVDs: Extreme Close-Up, Open Traveller, On Screen, and marketed a bevy of best-selling tricks: Nomen Omen, Spare Change, Swiss Pack, Deadlock. His innovative material has also appeared in The Magic Manuscript, Apocalypse, M.U.M., Franceʼs Arcane, The Magic Menu, The Linking Ring, MAGIC, and of course, Richard Kaufmanʼs Genii, where heʼs been a columnist since 2002, and now writes the Magicana section.

David Acer skillfully combines comedy and magic. David will teach and perform both close-up and stand-up effects at his lecture.

National Press Club Show

2010-04-16T16:56:00.003-04:00

On April 14th, members of SAM Assembly 23 performed at the National Press Club. All photos below by Jim Flanigan.

Sammy Award Recipient Ray Eyler mystifies onlookers.

Larry Lipman Amazes

Theo Rushin Astounds

Noland Montgomery Perplexes

Dwight Redman Bamboozles

Sam Brothers also performed, and the event was MC'd by Cristian Vidrascu and Rick Beatty.

Ray Eyler Receives SAMMY Award

2010-03-01T13:06:00.004-05:00

Ray Eyler presented with his Lifetime Achievement SAMMY Award by S.A.M. Assembly 23 President Lars Klores

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

Hudson Taylor - The Wrestling Magician

2010-02-18T11:52:00.003-05:00

Kudos to Assembly 23 Member Hudson Taylor for his appearance on the Washington Post's "D.C. Sports Bog." Check it out here.

Egg Bag - January

2009-12-30T15:31:00.002-05:00

Our Next Meeting is January 20th where local legend Ray Eyler will receive our second annual "Sammy Award" followed by a lecture from Ray and his son Lee entitled "Inside a Close-up Session"

Wednesday, January 20, 2010
National Press Club, 14th and F Streets, 13th Floor
Award Ceremony and Lecture in the Zenger Room begins at 8:00
Free for SAM Members; $15 for all others

December Meeting:

I've Got You Under My Skin

Ray Eyler performed a variation of “A Very Good Hand” in which four Ace of Spades magically become a Royal Flush. Larry Lipman followed with his performance of Martin Lewis’s “Cardiographic.” Jason King dazzled attendees with his demonstration of a killer muscle pass, then perplexed them with his vanish then reappearance of a finger ring. Club Treasurer Dwight Redman performed a real fooler of a card to card box, followed by Noland Montgomery’s Flip Stick and Multiplying Billiard Ball Routine. Theo Rushin performed “Retro Sight,” a spooky routine in which words shown in a mirror fail to reverse themselves. Theo followed up with a quick performance of Richard Sanders’s and Bill Abbott’s “Powerball 60.” Next up was Lee Eyler, who performed his own marketed effect, “It’s a Pip” in which a card pip is plucked off a card to match the spectator’s chosen card. Brent Hatherhill regaled us with his knife swallowing routine, which was followed by Joe Tessmer’s Wine Bottle from Silks production. Lars Klores performed a four-ace routine which ended with David Regal’s “Leap of Faith” in which a chosen card travelled from one hand to his other hand. Alan Drew performed a hugely entertaining card and bill routine. Hudson Taylor performed his handling of “Out of This World” from a fully shuffled deck. Matt Hiller, who had planned to do OOTW himself, changed to a killer dice prediction at the last minute.

JANUARY’S MEETING

The McClendon Room has been reserved for dinner and the general meeting. All compeers are encouraged to join us for dinner.

THE $100 LARRY WEST PRIZE

In July 2010, Assembly 23 will have a drawing for a $100 magic-shop gift certificate. To be entered into this drawing, simply show up to the meetings. Each member in good standing at each meeting will be entered into the drawing. Every month, you have another chance to be entered, so at the end of the year those with perfect attendance should have 12 entries.

A bonus entry each month will be awarded to the member whose magic performance best exemplifies that month's theme.

DRESS CODE:

Please remember that the Assembly is a guest of the National Press Club. Gentlemen should dress in business casual or better–no Tee-shirts, shorts, jeans or flip-flops to the dinner meetings. Ladies should dress correspondingly appropriately.

ANNUAL DUES:

Dues are now past due! Dues are $10 per year. If you have not yet paid dues for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010), you may pay the Treasurer, Dwight Redman, at the meeting or mail. Make your check payable to “SAM Assembly 23”.

MEETING AT THE NATIONAL PRESS CLUB

In the future a member of the National Press Club needs to be in attendance at all SAM assembly meetings held at the National Press Club. This is a requirement of the Press Club. The secretary Joe Tessmer, a member of the National Press Club, will be in attendance at the November and December meetings.

UP-COMING THEMES & ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSEMBLY – SUBJECT TO CHANGE:

(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

The monthly themes for 2009-2010 are:

February: Come Fly With Me

March: You're Getting to Be a Habit

April: (NPC Show)

May: (Lecture TBA)

June: I Got Plenty of Nothing

July: What Kind of Fool Am I?

OTHER NON-ASSEMBLY EVENTS OF INTEREST:

It is now required that all members of any assembly be national members of the Society of American Magicians S.A.M.

The Kapital Kidvention, a three-day convention for Children's Magic Show entertainers to be held in the D.C. area in January. More information is at http://www.kapitalkidvention.com/.

Egg Bag - December

2009-12-30T15:29:00.001-05:00

NOVEMBER’S MEETING:

DANCING IN THE DARK

Among new business was the announcement of previous winners of our monthly contest for best use of that month’s theme. Lee Eyler was announced as the inaugural winner in September with his Houdini-themed “Sub-Trunk, Okito Style,” while Jonathan Walker won October’s competition with his “Trick or Treat” effect. Winners receive an extra entry into our end of-the-year drawing for the $100 “Larry West Prize.”

Performances began with Phil Milstead’s baffling effect where a free choice of folded papers yielded the letters U, M, and S, which not only matched a sealed prediction, but also matched the December theme of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.” Unfortunately, Phil was a month early, as this was November, and our theme was “Dancing in the Dark.” You’re a man ahead of your time, Phil. Better luck next month. Noland Montgomery did not disappoint with his well-performed Tabary/Sanders rope manipulations. Assembly President Lars Klores performed “Dancing With the Dark Card,” a routine combining Jean Boucher’s “Dark Card” with Royal Magic’s “Glorpy” to allow the ghost of Frank Sinatra to not only find a chosen card, but write a message on it insulting the chooser’s shuffling ability. Jonathan Walker’s “Dancing on the Deck” vanished an entire deck save for a single selection, while Joe Tessmer’s “Snickerdoodle” transformed a chosen card into a candy bar, which Joe promptly made disappear… by eating it. Dwight Redman followed with a killer handling of “Haunted Card,” for which he provided handling tips afterwards. Theo Rushin wowed the gathering with his “Imagination,” a great sentimental routine in which the sound of a radio mysteriously emanates from nowhere. Larry Lipman continued his search for the perfect Cards Across, this time baffling the crowd with Trevor Lewis’s routine, while Christian Vidrascu closed out the performances with a powerhouse memory demonstration.

DECEMBER’S MEETING

The McClendon Room has been reserved for dinner and the general meeting. All compeers are encouraged to join us for dinner.

The Theme for the December meeting is “I've Got You Under My Skin”. (Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

THE $100 LARRY WEST PRIZE

A bonus entry each month will be awarded to the member whose magic performance best exemplifies that month's theme.

DRESS CODE:

ANNUAL DUES:

MEETING AT THE NATIONAL PRESS CLUB

UP-COMING THEMES & ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSEMBLY – SUBJECT TO CHANGE:

(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

The monthly themes for 2009-2010 are:

January: (Ray and Lee Eyler Lecture)

Coming Attractions:

February: Come Fly With Me

March: You're Getting to Be a Habit

April: (NPC Show)

May: (Lecture TBA)

June: I Got Plenty of Nothing

July: What Kind of Fool Am I?

OTHER NON-ASSEMBLY EVENTS OF INTEREST:

It is now required that all members of any assembly be national members of the Society of American Magicians S.A.M.

The Kapital Kidvention, a three-day convention for Children's Magic Show entertainers to be held in the D.C. area in January. More information is at http://www.kapitalkidvention.com/.

Egg Bag - November

2009-12-30T15:10:00.001-05:00

JEEPERS CREEPERS

Several members being out of town this month, the Assembly 23 gathering was relatively small for October with only eight attendees, so we were able to move to a more intimate setting for cocktails and dinner: the large roundtable by the fireplace in the National Press Club bar. Following a long dinner in which several decks of cards somehow found themselves on breadplates, the group retired to the backroom lounge for the performance section of the evening, which was eyed surreptitiously by the National Press Club members. Our rat-pack theme this month was “Jeepers Creepers.”

The gathered magicians cut a (probably) ungimmicked deck to determine performance order. Winner (or loser, depending on your point of view) was new candidate for membership Hudson Taylor. Hudson performed his own impressive version of the Haunted Deck in which ghosts, represented by aces, magically appeared on the face of the deck when it was shaken. Matt Hiller followed with a totally inexplicable 2-ring version of Jay Sankey’s “Three-Ring Circus.” Theo Rushin then performed Chris Kenner’s “Five-Speed,” the climax of which produced audible gasps from the audience. He was followed by Lars Klores, who performed “Masque of the Red Death,” his original handling of Robert Neale’s “Thirteen at Table” inspired by a conversation with David Parr. Tom Kee performed a killer Marlo sandwich effect which left everyone befuddled, then Jonathan Walker, who had apparently spent all day with a playing card in one shoe and a piece of Halloween candy in the other, performed “Trick ‘R’ Treat” in which a chosen card was discovered in the magician’s shoe. Dwight Redman demonstrated a beautiful wooden finger chopper, then followed with “Further Than That” in which a Ten of Spades shows up in increasingly impossible locations. Final performance of the night was Sam Brothers, who favored us with a classic from Royal Road to Card Magic entitled, “Gary’s Spelling Trick.”

The performance segment concluded, attendees were already in the bar, so we stayed where we were and continued with drinks and sessioning.’

NOVEMBER’S MEETING

The McClendon Room has been reserved for dinner and the general meeting. All compeers are encouraged to join us for dinner.

The Theme for the November meeting is “Dancing in the Dark”. (Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

THE $100 LARRY WEST PRIZE

A bonus entry each month will be awarded to the member whose magic performance best exemplifies that month's theme.

DRESS CODE:

ANNUAL DUES:

MEETING AT THE NATIONAL PRESS CLUB

UP-COMING THEMES & ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSEMBLY – SUBJECT TO CHANGE:

(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

The monthly themes for 2009-2010 are:

November: Dancing in the Dark

December: I've Got You Under My Skin

January: (Ray and Lee Eyler Lecture)

February: Come Fly With Me

March: You're Getting to Be a Habit

April: (NPC Show)

May: (Lecture TBA)

June: I Got Plenty of Nothing

July: What Kind of Fool Am I?

OTHER NON-ASSEMBLY EVENTS OF INTEREST:

It is now required that all members of any assembly be national members of the Society of American Magicians S.A.M.

Ray Eyler has a DVD of over 800 high-resolution professional photographs that document the entire 2009 S.A.M, convention for review by Assembly 23 compeers.

The Kapital Kidvention, a three-day convention for Children's Magic Show entertainers to be held in the D.C. area in January. More information is at http://www.kapitalkidvention.com/.

Egg Bag - October 2009

2009-09-29T14:44:00.002-04:00

OUR NEXT MEETING – WEDNESDAAY OCTOBER 21, 2009

Current Assembly Officers:

Lars Klores, President

Cristian Vidrascu Vice President

Joe Tessmer, Secretary and Assembly Reporter

Dwight Redman, Treasurer

SEPTEMBER’S MEETING:
Al Cohen performed and gave a lecture to a packed house. A few photographs are attached. Al seemed to enjoy the talk as much as the audience. A big THANK YOU to Al from Assembly 23.

OCTOBER’S MEETING

The McClendon Room has been reserved for dinner and the general meeting. All compeers are encouraged to join us for dinner.

The Theme for the October meeting is “Jeepers Creepers”. (Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

THE $100 LARRY WEST PRIZE

In July 2010, Assembly 23 will have a drawing for a $100 magic-shop gift certificate. To be entered into this drawing, simply show up to the meetings. Each member in good standing at each meeting will be entered into the drawing. Every month, you have another chance to be entered, so at the end of the year those with perfect attendance should have 12 entries.

A bonus entry each month will be awarded to the member whose magic performance best exemplifies that month's theme.

DRESS CODE:

Please remember that the Assembly is a guest of the National Press Club. Gentlemen should dress in business casual or better–no Tee-shirts, shorts, jeans or flip-flops to the dinner meetings. Ladies should dress correspondingly appropriately.

ANNUAL DUES:

Dues are now past due! Dues are $10 per year. If you have not yet paid dues for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010), you may pay the Treasurer, Dwight Redman, at the meeting or mail. Make your check payable to “Larry West Assembly 23”.

UP-COMING THEMES & ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSEMBLY – SUBJECT TO CHANGE:

(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

The monthly themes for 2009-2010 are:

November: Dancing in the Dark

December: I've Got You Under My Skin

January: (Ray and Lee Eyler Lecture)

February: Come Fly With Me

March: You're Getting to Be a Habit

April: (NPC Show)

May: (Lecture TBA)

June: I Got Plenty of Nothing

July: What Kind of Fool Am I?

OTHER NON-ASSEMBLY EVENTS OF INTEREST:

It is now required that all members of any assembly be national members of the Society of American Magicians S.A.M.

Ray Eyler has a DVD of over 800 high-resolution professional photographs that document the entire 2009 S.A.M, convention for review by Assembly 23 compeers.

The Kapital Kidvention, a three-day convention for Children's Magic Show entertainers to be held in the D.C. area in January. More information is at http://www.kapitalkidvention.com/.

The secretary of Assembly 23 looks forward to attending the November meeting and wishes everyone well with “Jeepers Creepers”.
You might want to check out the following You Tube clip of Hans Klok & the Divas of Magic who perform 10 illusions in 5 minutes at
http://www.flixxy.com/worlds-fastest-magician.htm

Egg Bag - September 2009

2009-09-22T10:31:00.000-04:00

Current Assembly Officers:

Lars Klores, President

Cristian Vidrascu Vice President

Joe Tessmer, Secretary and Assembly Reporter

Dwight Redman, Treasurer

AUGUST’s MEETING:

Luck Be a Lady

Following cocktails and dinner, the meeting commenced with the announcement of strong advance ticket sales for the club's September 14 lecture with local magic legend Al Cohen. We then moved into the performance portion of the evening.

August's theme, in keeping with the Rat Pack motif, was "Luck Be a Lady," so of course there were lots of effects involving queens. New candidate for membership Wayne Spillman performed a version of "52 Card Monte" in which he found the four queens in increasingly impossible ways. Incoming Assembly Vice President Cristian Vidrascu showed us his sponge ball routine, his own take on the "Papa Rabbit" theme, and there was much debate about how to tell the "Mama Ball" from the "Papa Ball." Max Eyler did "Monte Mania," a version of "find the queen" which resulted in the queen being nowhere to be found, and a set of 10s in their place. Lee Eyler presented "Sub Trunk - Okito Style," a real fooler of a coin transposition with patter referencing Harry and Bess Houdini, and Bess's attempts to escape her Okito Box restraint. Joe Tessmer performed Chris Kenworthey’s Telethought Wallet, divining a number written on a business card and encased in a leather wallet. Jonathan Walker showed us his handling of the Princess Card trick, with which he had been fooling laypeople in the bar prior to the meeting. Dwight Redman was able to find not only the chosen queen, but all four of them, reversed in a shuffled deck. Noland Montgomery perfomed a flip-stick routine on which he has been working. Hugh Turley did "Swami River Mentalism," his homage to Carnac The Magnificent and predicted the contents of several sealed envelopes. This routine allowed members to practice their Ed McMahon impressions. Assembly President Lars Klores performed Mike Rose's "The Grail," a card at any number (which just happened to be a Queen). Matt Hiller performed "Synchronicity" in which a card lost in the deck appeared in the magician's mouth. Theo Rushin peformed "Rub a Dub Dub," a cups and balls routine with a rhyming, sometimes singing, patter. Ray Eyler finished off the performances with a killer "Marsupial Queens."

Assembly members then voted unanimously to induct Wayne Spillman into Assembly 23. Exhausted and thirsty from the vote, they adjourned to the Reliable Source bar for further sessioning and libations.

THE $100 LARRY WEST PRIZE

In July 2010, Assembly 23 will have a drawing for a $100 magic-shop gift certificate. To be entered into this drawing, simply show up to the meetings. Each member in good standing at each meeting will be entered into the drawing. Every month, you have another chance to be entered, so at the end of the year those with perfect attendance should have 12 entries.

A bonus entry each month will be awarded to the member whose magic performance best exemplifies that month's theme.

DRESS CODE:

Please remember that the Assembly is a guest of the National Press Club. Gentlemen should dress in business casual or better–no Tee-shirts, shorts, jeans or flip-flops to the dinner meetings. Ladies should dress correspondingly appropriately.

ANNUAL DUES:

Dues are now past due! Dues are $10 per year. If you have not yet paid dues for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010), you may pay the Treasurer, Dwight Redman, at the meeting or mail. Make your check payable to “Larry West Assembly 23”.

UP-COMING THEMES & ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSEMBLY – SUBJECT TO CHANGE:

Dinner on Monday September 14th. A few months ago the date of the September meeting was changed to next Monday. Someone reserved the Zenger room for Al’s lecture, unfortunately both the McClendon Room and the mezzanine were booked for the evening. Good fortune smiled on assembly 23 and yesterday, Joe Tessmer went to the press club and working with the Mesfin Mekonen was able to secure the use of the mezzanine for our dinner next Monday. Please let Lars Klores know if you will be attending the 6:00 dinner with Al before the lecture. His e-mail address is klores@gmail.com

(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

The monthly themes for 2009-2010 are:

September: (Al Cohen Lecture Monday September 14th)

October: Jeepers Creepers

November: Dancing in the Dark

December: I've Got You Under My Skin

January: (Ray and Lee Eyler Lecture)

February: Come Fly With Me

March: You're Getting to Be a Habit

April: (NPC Show)

May: (Lecture TBA)

June: I Got Plenty of Nothing

July: What Kind of Fool Am I?

OTHER NON-ASSEMBLY EVENTS OF INTEREST:

There is a new, eco-friendly option, to new and renewing members at a reduced fee. Members may now choose to go "paperless". For many months, M-U-M, the official magazine of the S.A.M., has been available on-line. Compeers may now elect to receive M-U-M on-line and save $20.00 per year.

It is now required that all members of any assembly be national members of the Society of American Magicians S.A.M.

Over 800 high-resolution professional photographs that document the entire convention, many of which are have been included in this months M-U-M are now available for review by Assembly 23 compeers.

The Kapital Kidvention, a three-day convention for Children's Magic Show entertainers to be held in the D.C. area in January. More information is at http://www.kapitalkidvention.com/.

Congratulations to Ray and Lee Eyler who premiered their new lecture "Inside a Close-Up Session" at the Jokers Gone Wild convention in Fairborn, Ohio last month.
You might want to check out the following You Tube clip of Hans Klok & the Divas of Magic who perform 10 illusions in 5 minutes at

http://www.flixxy.com/worlds-fastest-magician.htm

Egg Bag - August 2009

2009-09-22T10:30:00.000-04:00

Current Assembly Officers:

Lars Klores, President
Joe Tessmer, Secretary and Assembly Reporter
Dwight Redman, Treasurer

JULY’s MEETING:
Sam Brothers did an impromptu "Out of This World" of his own devising (after cheekily pretending to stack his deck to throw us off the scent).

Laurie Curry then performed "Zebra". She first displayed a silk with a white donkey on it. The silk was put in a bag, then removed and shown to depict a black donkey. It appeared that Laurie was using two silks, until she showed the bag to be empty and the silk changed to depict a zebra!

Jim Flanigan performed his own Harry Potter-themed automatic coloring book, followed by a Potter-themed card prediction, which seemed to go wrong until the magician was saved by an insurance policy, which predicted the correct card.

Matt Hiller presented his version of Jim Steinmeyer's "Nine Card Problem" using an interesting method in which the spectator decides the placement of the selection.

Theo Rushin performed a routine of his own devising which combined "Ambitious Card", Masuda's "Wow", and a finale from Jay Sankey's "Reconstruction" in which the magician produced a card which was one-off from the selection, but was then changed into the selection by peeling off a pip.

Noland Montgomery performed Paul Green's Copper/Silver routine that amazed all.

Ray Eyler performed Andy Dallas's "Vanishing Coin Box," a version of the "Sucker Die Box" which packs flat, followed by Larry West's "Roy's Ploy," a "Color Monte" variation using two selections and the Kings.

Larry Lipman, ever on the search for the perfect "Cards Across", performed a real stunner out of an obscure source he indentified as "Tarbell." This version used sealed envelopes to preclude any tampering.

Lars Klores chose Guy Hollingworth's "Reformation" for his first trick as president, and presented it with a faith-healer theme.

Dwight Redman performed his handling of Mark Jenest's "No. 2 Pencil," then followed it with a real baffler called "Blankety-Blank" from Aldo Columbini in which three kings and a blank card changed to four kings, then to four blanks.

Lee Eyler finished off the performance section with part of an Al Leech card effect in which a card was chosen, and then found via an indicator card reversed in the deck. In between the indicator card and the selected card the four aces were found. Lee then finished with his own incredible sandwich effect, "Club Sandwich."

Compeers are requested to e-mail the secretary with a brief explanation of their performances to included in the Egg Bag.

THE $100 LARRY WEST PRIZE
In July 2010, Assembly 23 will have a drawing for a $100 magic-shop gift certificate. To be entered into this drawing, simply show up to the meetings. Each member in good standing at each meeting will be entered into the drawing. Every month, you have another chance to be entered, so at the end of the year those with perfect attendance should have 12 entries.

A bonus entry each month will be awarded to the member whose magic performance best exemplifies that month's theme.

DRESS CODE:
Please remember that the Assembly is a guest of the National Press Club. Gentlemen should dress in business casual or better–no Tee-shirts, shorts, jeans or flip-flops to the dinner meetings. Ladies should dress correspondingly appropriately.

ANNUAL DUES:
Dues are now past due! Dues are $10 per year. If you have not yet paid dues for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010), you may pay the Treasurer, Dwight Redman, at the meeting or mail. Make your check payable to “Larry West Assembly 23”.

OUR NEXT MEETING – AUGUST 19, 2009

UP-COMING THEMES & ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSEMBLY – SUBJECT TO CHANGE:
(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

The monthly themes for 2009-2010 are:
August: Luck Be a Lady
September: (Al Cohen Lecture Monday September 14th)
October: Jeepers Creepers
November: Dancing in the Dark
December: I've Got You Under My Skin
January: (Ray and Lee Eyler Lecture)
February: Come Fly With Me
March: You're Getting to Be a Habit
April: (NPC Show)
May: (Lecture TBA)
June: I Got Plenty of Nothing
July: What Kind of Fool Am I?

OTHER NON-ASSEMBLY EVENTS OF INTEREST:

To the consternation of some members of Assembly 23 the secretary did not attend the monthly meeting. Rather he had the temerity and unmitigated gall to attend the annual meeting of the Society of American Magicians, as the assembly’s representative to the S.A.M. National Council. Two items of importance to Assembly 23 members are:

A: There is a new, eco-friendly option, to new and renewing members at a reduced fee. Members may now choose to go "paperless". For many months, M-U-M, the official magazine of the S.A.M., has been available on-line. Compeers may now elect to receive M-U-M on-line and save $20.00 per year.

B: It is now required that all members of any assembly be national members of the Society of American Magicians S.A.M.

Additionally, over 800 high-resolution professional photographs that document the entire convention, many of which are expected to be included in next months M-U-M are now available for review by Assembly 23 compeers.

The Kapital Kidvention, a three-day convention for Children's Magic Show entertainers to be held in the D.C. area in January. More information is at http://www.kapitalkidvention.com/.

Ray and Lee Eyler will premier their new lecture "Inside a Close-Up Session" at the Jokers Gone Wild convention in Fairborn, Ohio, August 21 and 22. For more info see http://www.magical1.org.

Egg Bag - July 2009

2009-07-20T13:31:00.001-04:00

The Egg Bag - July 2009
Society of American Magicians Assembly 23 - The Larry West Assembly

A Note from the President:

Greetings Compeers,

I am excited to be the Larry West Assembly's new president for the 2009-2010 year. As my first order of business, I want to thank outgoing president Matt Hiller for his service to the organization, and also those "senior advisors" who have helped me get up and running as President: Ray Eyler; Lee Eyler; Larry Lipman; Noland Montgomery; Joe Tessmer; and Dwight Redman.

As you all know, we are starting off the Assembly year in real style by getting the great Al Cohen as our September lecturer. There is not a more important or influential figure in the D.C. magic scene, so we're all really thrilled to have him and looking forward to his lecture on September 14th. Please note, this is a MONDAY, not our regular Wednesday meeting time. To reserve your place, please email alcohenlecture@gmail.com.

In January, we will be presenting "Inside a Close-Up Lecture," a new lecture by the father-son team Ray and Lee Eyler, and then in May a third lecture still to be confirmed.

The $100 Larry West Prize

In July 2010, Assembly 23 will have a drawing for a $100 magic-shop gift certificate. To be entered into this drawing, simply show up to the meetings. Each member in good standing at each meeting will be entered into the drawing. Every month, you have another chance to be entered, so at the end of the year those with perfect attendance should have 12 entries.

A bonus entry each month will be awarded to the member whose magic performance best exemplifies that month's theme.

What are the themes this year? I'm glad you asked.

Meeting Themes 2009 - 2010

August: Luck Be a Lady
September: (Al Cohen Lecture)
October: Jeepers Creepers
November: Dancing in the Dark
December: I've Got You Under My Skin
January: (Ray and Lee Eyler Lecture)
February: Come Fly With Me
March: You're Getting to Be a Habit
April: (NPC Show)
May: (Lecture TBA)
June: I Got Plenty of Nothing
July: What Kind of Fool Am I?

Doing a trick which meets that month's theme is appreciated, but not required. Though, as always, each member must perform at the meeting.

The July Meeting

Our regular meeting at the National Press Club opened with new officers being sworn in. Dwight Redman replaced long-serving Noland Montgomery as Treasurer, while Lars Klores took the reins of president from Matt Hiller. Lars got off to a great start as president by announcing that the legendary Al Cohen had been booked by the club for a rare lecture on September 14th. Al has been in retirement, so this is his first lecture in years, and the club is extremely excited. Later in the year, SAM Assembly 23 will play host to a new lecture, "Inside a Close-Up Session" from the venerable father-and-son team Ray and Lee Eyler, longtime club members and owners of Kee-West Productions. A third lecture may be announced shortly.

In other announcements, Laurie Curry told the club about the Kapital Kidvention, a three-day convention for Children's Magic Show entertainers to be held in the D.C. area in January. More information is at http://www.kapitalkidvention.com/. Ray Eyler then announced that he and son Lee would be premiering their new lecture "Inside a Close-Up Session" at the Jokers Gone WIld convention in Fairborn, Ohio, August 21 and 22. For more info see http://www.magical1.org.

The performance portion of the evening began with Sam Brothers doing an impromptu "Out of This World" of his own devising (after cheekily pretending to stack his deck to throw us off the scent). Laurie Curry then performed "Zebra". She first displayed a silk with a white donkey on it. The silk was put in a bag, then removed and shown to depict a black donkey. All those in the know were sure Laurie was using two silks, until she showed the bag to be empty and the silk changed to depict a zebra! Jim Flanigan followed Laurie with his own Harry Potter-themed automatic coloring book, followed by a Potter-themed card prediction which seemed to go wrong until the magician was saved by an insurance policy which predicted the correct card. Outgoing president Matt Hiller presented his version of Jim Steinmeyer's "Nine Card Problem" using an interesting method in which the spectator decides the placement of the selection. Theo Rushin then performed a routine of his own devising which combined "Ambitious Card", Masuda's "Wow", and a finale from Jay Sankey's "Reconstruction" in which the magician produced a card which was one-off from the selection, but was then changed into the selection by peeling off a pip. Noland Montgomery performed Paul Green's Copper/Silver routine which amazed all. Ray Eyler then performed Andy Dallas's "Vanishing Coin Box," a version of the "Sucker Die Box" which packs flat, followed by Larry West's "Roy's Ploy," a "Color Monte" variation using two selections and the Kings. Larry Lipman, ever on the search for the perfect "Cards Across", performed a real stunner out of an obscure source he indentified as "Tarbell." Wonder when that is coming out on DVD... This version used sealed envelopes to preclude any tampering. New club president Lars Klores chose Guy Hollingworth's "Reformation" for his first trick as president, and presented it with a faith-healer theme. Dwight Redman performed his handling of Mark Jenest's "No. 2 Pencil," then followed it with a real baffler called "Blankety-Blank" from Aldo Columbini in which three kings and a blank card changed to four kings, then to four blanks. Lee Eyler finished off the performance section with part of an Al Leech card effect in which a card was chosen, then found via an indicator card reversed in the deck. In between the indicator card and the selected card? The four Aces! Lee then finished with his own incredible sandwich effect, "Club Sandwich."

Members then retired to the Reliable Source bar for sessioning and libations.

Contributions

The Egg Bag is a great place to make announcements, or to contribute effects or handlings you've been working on. Please send contributions to SAMAssembly23@gmail.com

The Usual Info

SAM Assembly 23 - The Larry West Assembly - meets on the third Wednesday of every month in the Reliable Source bar on the 13th floor of the National Press Club on 14th St., NW, Washington, D.C., between E and F streets. Dinner and drinks commence at 6:30, the meeting commences at 8:00.

Dress is business casual or better.

Next Meeting

Our next meeting is August 19th. The theme is "Luck Be a Lady". See you there.

Egg Bag -- June 2009

2009-06-16T21:25:00.002-04:00

THE LARRY WEST ASSEMBLY NO. 23, S.A.M. MEETS ON THE 3RD WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT THE NATIONAL PRESS CLUB IS ON 14TH STREET BETWEEN E & F STREETS,
IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

OUR NEXT MEETING – JUNE 17, 2009

June – Lecture by Kozmo aka Ted Brainard is expected to contain a performance of his Professional Street Act; Translocation Coins (The reasons why Kozmo opens with this effect); Coins in the Cup (How to make this effect play big rather than play small); Card Trick (How to make this trick play big or play small); The Sugar Packet Trick (Why this effect plays so strong), and Chop Cup Routine (Kozmo’s complete routine with all its nuances).

MAY’s MEETING:

The following nominations were made:

Lars Klores as President (replacing Matt Hiller)
Vice President TBD (replacing Lars Klores)
Joe Tessmer as Secretary and Assembly Reporter (replacing Ray Eyler)
Dwight Redman as Treasurer (replacing Noland Montgomery)

The following compeers provided information on their performances last month:

Noland Montgomery performed Aldo Colombini's 'Rope-in', a variation on the classic Professor's Nightmare in which 3 unequal pieces of rope become the same length. In the Colombini variation, the ropes are then shown to be one rope, then one rope with 3 ends, one rope with 4 ends, then 2 ropes and finally, 2 ends are tied together, the knot removed and the 2 ropes fuse back into one (examinable) length of rope

Larry Lipman performed the "Nothing Box" where something kept showing up in his empty box of nothing.

Lars Klores performed "Heinsight" in which a prediction that the spectator would choose the Joker was written on a card box. The spectator then chose a card, which turned out to be the four of diamonds. It was revealed that every other card in the deck was a joker. It was then revealed that the card box prediction had magically changed, now predicting the four of diamonds.

Joe Tessmer –requested three spectators to agree on a single card within a standard deck. Using the missing think effect he requested each of the three spectators to select one of eight lists of cards that contained the agreed upon card. (This effect is based on the combinations of 8 things taken 3 at a time.) Using an invisible deck he then placed a card in the hand of one of the spectators. Joe then asked the spectator to place his remaining hand on top of the card. The spectator was then asked to invert his hands. Joe then revealed the card, and to the amazement of no one, the card was in the hand of the spectator.

DRESS CODE:
Please remember that the Assembly is a guest of the National Press Club. Gentlemen should dress in business casual or better–no Tee-shirts, shorts, jeans or flip-flops to the dinner meetings. Ladies should dress correspondingly appropriately.

ANNUAL DUES:
Dues are now past due! Our dues are only $10 per year, a real bargain. If you have not yet paid dues for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010), you may pay the Treasurer, Noland Montgomery, at the meeting or mail your check payable to “Larry West Assembly 23” to Noland Montgomery, P.O. Box 581, Beltsville, Maryland 20704-0581.

OTHER NON-ASSEMBLY EVENTS OF INTEREST:
June 5 and 6, 2009 will be the annual Parlour Magic Foray of Famous Unknown Magicians and Clowns. This year’s featured performers will include Bruce Kalver, 2008 S.A.M. President, Mike Miller, 2009 S.A.M. President, and Andy Dallas, 2007 S.A.M. President. The event will be held at the Hall of Fame of Famous Unknown Magicians and Clowns located near Cooperstown, New York. Admission is $35. Checks may be sent to: Charlie Zuis, Hall of Fame of Famous Unknowns, Box 72, Schuyler Lake, New York 13457. Please contact Charlie Zuis (Chazoo) at 315-858-2576 for more information.

UP-COMING THEMES & ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSEMBLY – SUBJECT TO CHANGE:
(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)
July -- T.B.A. / Make close-up mats?

Egg Bag - May 2009

2009-05-12T17:13:00.001-04:00

THE LARRY WEST ASSEMBLY NO. 23, S.A.M. MEETS ON THE 3RD WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT THE NATIONAL PRESS CLUB IS ON 14TH STREET BETWEEN E & F STREETS, IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

OUR NEXT MEETING – MAY 20, 2009

THEME OF THE MEETING

Escapology, math-magic, street bizarre! As well as show us what your working on! While we have a theme you are at liberty to show us something else and perhaps you will be able to fit what you are working on into the theme. Remember the most important thing is that you perform.

APRIL’S MAGIC SHOW:

Performers included: Hugh Turley, Allen Cleveland, Laurie Curry and Greg Clements, Noland Montgomery, Larry Lipman, Cristian Vidrascu, and Dwight Redman. In addition Jim Flanigan and Steve Javes were the performing masters of ceremony for the evening.

Allen Cleveland performed using the Pom Pom sticks, the vanishing (Nielsen) ketchup bottle and the invisible deck.

Laurie Curry and Greg Clements did the Gypsy Rope Mystery to the amazement of the audience.

Noland Montgomery opened with a short card routine involving the four aces, he then produced an apparently live mouse named George from an empty hat. George then engaged in a number of comic antics. He closed with a four-ring linking ring routine also with a child from the audience.

Larry Limpan did a version of "What's Next" with the multiplying dots and the "mismade flag" with the American flag that kept coming out incorrectly. He was assisted by a child portraying Abraham Lincoln.

Cristian Vidascu chose a random member from the audience by throwing a ball to the public. Cristian then asked the volunteer to choose a Jack (Spades, Hearts, Diamonds, or Clubs). The whole time he had an envelope in his hand. He pulled out the four cards and showed that the Jack of Diamonds was upside down. He then showed that he did not rely on sleight of hand, because the chosen Jack had a different color back. As a climax, he showed that the experiment wouldn’t have worked had the volunteer chosen another Jack, because the remaining three cards were blank. Finally he vanished a red silk, made it reappear, and subsequently transformed it into a flower, which he gave to a girl in the front row.

Dwight Redmand did a torn and restored card with an auto insurance story. He then did the anniversary waltz (two signed cards merge into one) and finished with his card to bottle routine with a Star Trek story.

Jim Flanigan, who was one of the evening's emcees, came to the rescue and filled some blank time with magic of his own. He showed a Spiderman coloring book in which the pages were colored magically with the audience's help. He also asked two men from the audience to hold the ends of a long rope which he pulled through his body in his version of the popular "Hang 'Em High" illusion.

DRESS CODE:

Please remember that the Assembly is a guest of the National Press Club. Gentlemen should dress in business casual or better–no Tee-shirts, shorts, jeans or flip-flops to the dinner meetings. Ladies should dress correspondingly appropriately.

ANNUAL DUES:

Dues are now due! Our dues are only $10 per year, a real bargain. If you have not yet paid dues for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009), you may pay the Treasurer, Noland Montgomery, at the meeting or mail your check payable to “Larry West Assembly 23” to Noland Montgomery, P.O. Box 581, Beltsville, Maryland 20704-0581.

KOZMO LECTURE REXCHEDULED:

Due to a death in the family, the Kozmo lecture has been rescheduled for our June Meeting. The lecture by Kozmo aka Ted Brainard will contain a performance of his Professional Street Act; Translocation Coins (The reasons why Kozmo opens with this effect); Coins in the Cup (How to make this effect play big rather than play small); Card Trick (How to make this trick play big or play small); The Sugar Packet Trick (Why this effect plays so strong), and Chop Cup Routine (Kozmo’s complete routine with all its nuances).

OTHER NON-ASSEMBLY EVENTS OF INTEREST:

June 5 and 6, 2009 will be the annual Parlour Magic Foray of Famous Unknown Magicians and Clowns. This year’s featured performers will include Bruce Kalver, 2008 S.A.M. President, Mike Miller, 2009 S.A.M. President, and Andy Dallas, 2007 S.A.M. President. The event will be held at the Hall of Fame of Famous Unknown Magicians and Clowns located near Cooperstown, New York. Admission is $35. Checks may be sent to: Charlie Zuis, Hall of Fame of Famous Unknowns, Box 72, Schuyler Lake, New York 13457. Please contact Charlie Zuis (Chazoo) at 315-858-2576 for more information.

UP-COMING THEMES & ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSEMBLY – SUBJECT TO CHANGE:

(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

June – Lecture by Kozmo aka Ted Brainard

July -- T.B.A. / Make close-up mats?

Munton Makes New Friends

2009-04-22T14:00:00.002-04:00

Former Assembly 23 President James Munton surrounded by girls at a recent sorority performance in Dallas, reminds us why we all became magicians in the first place. We miss you James. Don't work too hard.

Annual National Press Club Show - Photos

2009-04-22T13:25:00.006-04:00

Assembly 23's Annual National Press Club Show was a great success. Below are some pictures. All photographs are by SAM member and Master Photographer Joe Tessmer (http://www.tessmeroffairfax.com)

Hugh Turley

Jim Flanagan

Noland Montgomery

Allen Cleveland

Egg Bag - April 2009

2009-04-10T15:50:00.003-04:00

THE LARRY WEST ASSEMBLY NO. 23, S.A.M. MEETS ON THE 3RD WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT THE NATIONAL PRESS CLUB ON 14TH BETWEEN F & G STREETS, IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

OUR NEXT MEETING –APRIL 15, 2009

In lieu of the regularly scheduled meeting, the Assembly will hold its annual close-up/parlor show for the National Press Club members and other guests on Wednesday, April 15, 2008. The show is free to the public and starts at 7:30 PM instead of at the regular 8:00 p.m. meeting time. Please arrive early and if you will be dining at the Press Club, arrive extra early. The performances are family-oriented, so children of all ages are welcome. Even if you are not performing in the show, please come and lend your support to the assembly.

DRESS CODE:

Please remember that the Assembly is a guest of the National Press Club. Gentlemen should dress in business casual or better–no Tee-shirts, shorts, jeans or flip-flops to the dinner meetings. Ladies should dress correspondingly appropriately.

ANNUAL DUES:

Dues are now due! Our dues are only $10 per year, a real bargain. If you have not yet paid dues for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009), you may pay the Treasurer, Noland Montgomery, at the meeting or mail your check payable to “Larry West Assembly 23” to Noland Montgomery, P.O. Box 581, Beltsville, Maryland 20704-0581.

KOZMO LECTURE RESCHEDULED:

Due to a death in the family, the Kozmo lecture has been rescheduled for our June Meeting. The lecture by Kozmo aka Ted Brainard will contain a performance of his Professional Street Act; Translocation Coins (The reasons why Kozmo opens with this effect); Coins in the Cup (How to make this effect play big rather than play small); Card Trick (How to make this trick play big or play small); The Sugar Packet Trick (Why this effect plays so strong), and Chop Cup Routine (Kozmo’s complete routine with all its nuances).

OTHER NON-ASSEMBLY EVENTS OF INTEREST:

June 5 and 6, 2009 will be the annual Parlour Magic Foray of Famous Unknown Magicians and Clowns. This year’s featured performers will include Bruce Kalver, 2008 S.A.M. President, Mike Miller, 2009 S.A.M. President, and Andy Dallas, 2007 S.A.M. President. The event will be held at the Hall of Fame of Famous Unknown Magicians and Clowns located near Cooperstown, New York. Admission is $35. Checks may be sent to: Charlie Zuis, Hall of Fame of Famous Unknowns, Box 72, Schuyler Lake, New York 13457. Please contact Charlie Zuis (Chazoo) at 315-858-2576 for more information.

UP-COMING THEMES & ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSEMBLY – SUBJECT TO CHANGE:

(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

May. -- Escapology, math-magic, street bizarre

June – Lecture by Kozmo aka Ted Brainard

July -- T.B.A. / Make close-up mats?

Egg Bag, March 2009

2009-03-11T23:52:00.001-04:00

OUR NEXT MEETING – March 18, 2009

THE THEME OF THE MEETING

Penetration, Prediction, Prestidigitation! As well as show us what your working on! While we have a theme you are at liberty to show us something else and perhaps you will be able to fit what you are working on into the theme. Remember the most important thing is that you perform.

SPECIAL NOTE

Our April meeting will be devoted to our annual close-up show for members and guests of the National Press Club. Even if you are not performing that night, please come and lend your support to the assembly members who will be performing.

Kozmo lecture rescheduled

Due to a death in the family, the Kozmo lecture has been rescheduled for our June Meeting.

The lecture by Kozmo aka Ted Brainard will contain a performance of his Professional Street Act; Translocation Coins (The reasons why Kozmo opens with this effect); Coins in the Cup (How to make this effect play big rather than play small); Card Trick (How to make this trick play big or play small); The Sugar Packet Trick (Why this effect plays so strong), and Chop Cup Routine (Kozmo’s complete routine with all its nuances).

Up-Coming Themes & Activities of the Assembly - Subject to Change

(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)
Apr. -- National Press Club close-up show.
May. -- Escapology, math-magic, street bizarre
June -- T.B.A. / Mini Lecture teach in?
July -- T.B.A. / Make close-up mats?

Lecture Program Change

2009-02-17T15:27:00.003-05:00

Justin Miller has replaced Kozmo as Assembly 23's lecturer this Wednesday.

Kozmo had to bow out due to a family emergency. However, we are excited to have Justin lecture. Justin does astonishing close-up magic. His DVD releases include "The Cloak," "X Marks the Spot," "Time and Space," and most recently "Captured." You don't want to miss this! The lecture is free to Assembly 23 members and $15 for non-members.

Kozmo Lecture - Wednesday, Feb. 18

2009-02-12T11:03:00.007-05:00

On Wednesday, February 18th, the Larry West Assembly will be sponsoring a lecture by the famous street magician Kozmo.

Please join us at 6:00 for cocktails, 6:30 for dinner. The lecture begins at 8:00.

The cost of the lecture is $15 for non-members. SAM members are admitted free. Food and drinks are not included in the price.

Here's a little more about Kozmo and his lecture:

Kozmo

Teaches...

More Than Just Magic Tricks

Kozmo

Ted Brainard is the creator of Kozmo Magic, which is recognized as one of today's premier magic video production companies. His "Reel Magic Magazine" continues to be the benchmark in the video magic industry. Ted's alter ego, Kozmo, is acknowledged to be one of the top street performers in the world today

Kozmo will begin his lecture with a performance of his professional street act. This is a treat in and of itself. Kozmo will proceed to explain each effect in his street act. Kozmo pushes the envelope by teaching you why he has chosen each effect and why he has placed each effect where it is in his act.

You will hear Kozmo talk about conditions on the street. He will give you his thoughts on how to make your “hats” bigger. You will laugh at some of the anecdotes you will hear, including a great story about Harry Anderson.

Kozmo will show you how the principles of performing in the street can also be applied to the restaurant magic venue as well as the trade-show floor.

You may well jump for joy, as there is ONLY ONE card trick in the lecture. To some of you this may be your motivation to attend the lecture.

What You Will Learn At Kozmo’s Lecture:

Translocation Coins – The reasons why Kozmo opens with this effect
Coins In The Cup – You will learn how to make this effect play big rather than play small
A Card Trick – How to make this trick play big or play small
The Sugar Packet Trick – Why this effect plays so strong
Chop Cup Routine – Kozmo’s complete routine with all its nuances

Learn how to make your hats bigger, your magic play stronger, and learn a lesson in psychology, magic, and audience management!

Plus much much more!!!

"Kozmo is what magicians need to be -- ENTERTAINING!" - Karl Norman

"All magicians need to see you work". -- Obie O'Brien

Egg Bag, January 2009

2009-01-21T10:43:00.000-05:00

THE LARRY WEST ASSEMBLY NO. 23, S.A.M. MEETS ON THE 3RD WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT THE NATIONAL PRESS CLUB AT 14th & F STREETS, IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

Join us for fun, magic and fellowship. Cocktails start at 6:00 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m., and meeting at 7:30 p.m.

OUR NEXT MEETING – January 21, 2009

THE THEME OF THE MEETING:

Production, Vanish, Clairvoyance! As well as show us what your working on! While we have a theme you are at liberty to show us something else and perhaps you will be able to fit what you are working on into the theme. Remember the most important thing is that you perform.

SPECIAL NOTE:

Remember on February 18, 2009, the Assembly will sponsor a lecture by Kozmo a/k/a Ted Brainard The lecture will contain a performance of his Professional Street Act; Translocation Coins (The reasons why Kozmo opens with this effect); Coins in the Cup (How to make this effect play big rather than play small); A Card Trick (How to make this trick play big or play small); The Sugar Packet Trick (Why this effect plays so strong), and Chop Cup Routine (Kozmo’s complete routine with all its nuances).

The Magic of the Evening

Laurie Curry presenting her handling of the Drawer Box; showed us an empty small box only to produce a multitude of items from inside this “empty” container. Oh where, oh where did these things come from??

Noland Montgomery regaled us with a beautiful one coin routine.

Dwight Redman changing props provide us with an insight to his card expertise with the presentation of “Guess Again Revelation and Chameleon Jokers.”

Joe Tessmer not to be outdone caused a Queen and Nine to transpose.

Ray Eyler performed Kee-West’s “Marsupial Queens” and John Bannon’s torn, burnt & restored cigarette paper, “Shrike of the Mutilated.”

Larry Lipman entertained us with his rendition of “Paint my Flower” a beautiful Kids routine with silks.

Matt Hiller performed “Cheek to Cheek,” and to end the evening...

Christian Vidrasco did a cut & restored rope performance and a card spelling effect.

The group then retired to the Reliable Source for further exchange and socialization.

Up-Coming Themes & Activities of the Assembly - Subject to Change

(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

Feb. -- Kosmo Lecture
Mar. -- Penetration, Prediction, Prestidigitation
Apr. -- National Press Club close-up show.
May. -- Escapology, math-magic, street bizarre
June -- T.B.A. / Mini Lecture teach in?
July -- T.B.A. / Make close-up mats?

Pics from the National Press Club Children's Holiday Party

2009-01-02T11:30:00.003-05:00

SAM Assembly 23 members Steve Javes, Jim Flanagan, and Dwight Redman performed at this year's annual National Press Club Children's Holiday Party. Here are some photos:

Steve Javes

Jim Flanagan

Dwight Redman

Egg Bag - December 2008

2008-12-15T15:02:00.003-05:00

THE EGG BAG

THE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF THE LARRY WEST ASSEMBLY NO. 23, SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS

THE LARRY WEST ASSEMBLY NO. 23, S.A.M. MEETS ON THE 3RD WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT THE NATIONAL PRESS CLUB AT 14TH & F STREETS, IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

Join us for fun, magic and fellowship. Cocktails start at 6:00 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m., and meeting at 7:30 p.m.

OUR NEXT MEETING –DECEMBER 17, 2008

THE THEME OF THE MEETING

Transformation, Restoration, Optical Illusion! As well as show us what your working on! While we have a theme you are at liberty to show us something else and perhaps you will be able to fit what you are working on into the theme. Remember the most important thing is that you perform.

SPECIAL NOTE

Remember on February 18, 2009, the Assembly will sponsor a lecture by Kozmo a/kl/a Ted Brainard The lecture will contain a performance of his Professional Street Act; Translocation Coins (The reasons why Kozmo opens with this effect); Coins in the Cup (How to make this effect play big rather than play small); A Card Trick (How to make this trick play big or play small); The Sugar Packet Trick (Why this effect plays so strong), and Chop Cup Routine (Kozmo’s complete routine with all its nuances).

BROKEN WAND

Morton Rumberg reported on Dec. 13 that Phil Miller passed away in the AM.

His brother reported that at a lodge meeting last evening, he felt sick, went to the rest room
and passed out. He was taken to G.W. Hospital. He died there this morning. Phil was a member of IBM Ring 50, (Order of Merlin) and VMS (Virginia Magic Society).

The Memorial service will be next Monday, December 22, at Foundry United Methodist Church, 1500 16th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036, at 1:00 PM. Mike Miller’s (Phil’s brother) daughters Ruth Ellen and Jeanette are both coming, as are Meghann Davidson (married last January), Joe Mausolf (16), Michael Elsbree (20) and Stephen Elsbree (18). The girls loved their Uncle Phil and so did his grand nieces and nephews.

Up-Coming Themes & Activities of the Assembly - Subject to Change

(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

Jan. -- Production, Vanish, Clairvoyance
Feb. -- Kosmo Lecture
Mar. -- Penetration, Prediction, Prestidigitation
Apr. -- National Press Club close-up show.
May. -- Escapology, math-magic, street bizarre
June -- T.B.A. / Mini Lecture teach in?
July -- T.B.A. / Make close-up mats?

DON’T FORGET TO LOOK AT OUR WEB PAGE FOR OTHER ASSEMBLY NEWS AND INFORMATION AT www.assembly23.blogspot.com

Egg Bag, November 2008

2008-11-15T17:04:00.001-05:00

THE EGG BAG

THE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF

THE LARRY WEST ASSEMBLY NO. 23

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS

THE LARRY WEST ASSEMBLY NO. 23, S.A.M. MEETS ON THE 3RD WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT THE NATIONAL PRESS CLUB AT 14^TH & F STREETS, IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

Join us for fun, magic and fellowship. Cocktails start at 6:00 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m.,

and meeting at 7:30 p.m.

OUR NEXT MEETING –NOVEMBER 19, 2008

THE THEME OF THE MEETING

Psychokinesis, Precognition, and Mind reading! As well as show us what your working on! While we have a theme you are at liberty to show us something else and perhaps you will be able to fit what you are working on into the theme. Remember the most important thing is that you perform.

SPECIAL NOTE

We have been asked by the Press Club to provide some walk around magic for their annual children's holiday party starting at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.

This is an excellent opportunity for our members to do some fun children's entertainment, going from table to table and bring smiles and laughter to many young faces and some adults as well.

This party usually lasts until about 2:30, but the magicians don't have to stay the entire time. This is one of the annual events we do for the Press club in exchange for our meeting space.

We will be calling on volunteers on the Nov. 19th. meeting and finalize the other upcoming magical events of the season.

Monkey Business:

Our October meeting was a lecture by TROY HOOSER. After the lecture several of the compeers met in the Reliable Source for more fellowship and magic.

At the September Meeting: (an abbreviated report)

Ray Eyler presented the floating bill and his handling of Lou Gallo’s “Penetrated Bill” where a is folded lengthwise and covered by a also folded in half, a cocktail sword is thrust through the card and bill and then removed. The bill and card are examined along with the cocktail sword and then again the card and bill are penetrated, however this time the bill is slid from side to side. When the sword and card are removed the bill is found not to be damaged.

Lee Eyler was next to perform and “Sidewinder Card” where the chosen card being returned to the deck on its own levitates from the deck.

Jim Flanigan regaled us with his presentation of his “Presidential Cards” showing us the various candidates and finally arriving at the choice (chosen card).

Joe Tessmer roped us in with his rendition of the “Magic Stiff Rope.”

It was no gamble when Sam Brothers provided us with his performance of “Blind Man’s Poker.”

Dwight Redman as always entertaining, performed “Shinkansen” and coin in the bottle.

Larry Lipman provided us with an effect he is developing for his children’s performance he calls “Reach for the Star,” it is sure to be well received.

Noland Montgomery was next up performing Simon Lovell’s “Card Transposition.”

Matt Hiller arrested our attention with his presentation of “Crazy Man’s Handcuffs.”

Brent Hatherill performed a visual card force and prediction.

Steve Javes ended the evenings presentations with an effect he created – a bill change to credit card.

The group then retired to the Reliable Source for more fellowship and magic.

Up-Coming Themes & Activities of the Assembly - Subject to Change

(Remember, although we have a theme you may perform something else, the most important thing is that you perform.)

Dec. -- Transformation, Restoration, Optical Illusion

N.P.C. Holiday Party, Sat. Dec. 13

Jan. -- Production, Vanish, Clairvoyance

Feb. -- Kosmo Lecture
Mar. -- Penetration, Prediction, Prestidigitation

Apr. -- National Press Club close-up show.
May. -- Escapology, math-magic, street bizarre
June -- T.B.A. / Mini Lecture teach in?
July -- T.B.A. / Make close-up mats?

Larry West

2008-10-03T07:08:00.006-04:00

A Biography of Assembly 23 Namesake Larry West

Larry in the '70s with cards in hand

In the spring of 1993 Assembly 23 was renamed the Larry West Assembly. So that the newer members and magicians who may not have know Larry, below is a brief biography in order that they might become better acquainted with the person our Assembly is named for along with a group of photos showing his various faces.

Left to Right – Art Emerson & Larry West as they appeared on cover of MUM

Larry was born Gilbert Lorenzo West, Jr. on December 13, 1931 and at the tender age of eight years he received a Gilbert Mysto Magic Set for Christmas, and like so many of us, was never the same. In Larry's case, magic was never the same either! Larry attended Wilbraham Academy, Mass. Preparatory School and later Clark University where he took a degree in sociology. During this period he met and married Lois, a marriage which produced two children, Lon and Lori.

Larry at the piano at the National Press Club.

During his growing up years while visiting relatives in New Haven, Conn., he spent a great deal of time with slight-of-hand artist Rudy Reimer and inventor-manufacturer Todd Petrie. As the years passed he started developing his expertise in card magic, which was his forte.

Larry's full-time work was in broadcasting. After college, marriage and military service, in the 1950's, he started in radio in his home town of Pittsfield, Mass. Larry moved to Springfield, Mass., and for over two years produced a weekly television show (104 programs) for children on TV station WWLP, Channel 22, "The Mad House," under the guise of "MAX the Mad Magician." After working briefly for General Electric Broadcasting in Schenectady, N.Y., Larry went to Washington, D.C. for the Voice of America where he was an announcer and producer-director of documentaries and special English language programs.

Larry demonstrating for Mark Wilson

It was during the TV phase of his career that forced Larry to be inventive since the show used material at a rapid rate. With the appearance of Alex Elmsley's famous "Ghost Count" in the Dai Vernon "Twisting the Aces" routine, Larry found fertile ground for his inventiveness. Add this to his move to Schenectady, N.Y., where he met Vern Chesbro who had combined "Oil and Water" with the Elmsley count, and poor Alex's sleight would never be the same again. Alex Elmsley once commented to Larry, “I’ve created a monster.” Vern and Larry joined forces to write "Tricks You Can Count On," a book of card effects using the Elmsley Count and other counts (currently in its third printing,) which is still considered a classic of this genre of card magic.

Larry as “Witch Hazel” with Russ Glover in their National Award winning act “Professor Baldini & Witch Hazel”

At the 1967 national Magic Convention in Philadelphia, Larry met Art Emerson. The birth in 1968 of Emerson and West paired an inventive mind and a master salesman and introduced a line of exclusive magic effects under the Emerson and West banner at the Columbus Magifest in 1969. The line grew over the years and the Emerson and West packet card effects could be and even now can be seen particularly "Color Monte" the most popular packet ever marketed.

Many of the effects were Larry's. Many of the others, marketed by Emerson and West and credited to others have Larry's fine touch with modifications and improvements which have made the effects better than the original.

Larry as “Max the Mad Magician” during one of his TV shows.

In 1985, following the death of Charles Hudson, Larry volunteered to continue the Card Corner column of the "Linking Ring" with his first offering appearing in December 1985 and continued until his death in November 1989.

Art and Larry with Frank Garcia

In the beginning of the 1980, Larry teamed up with Ray Eyler to form KEE-West Productions. KEE-West printed and published lecture notes and various other magic and non-magic publications. Later in the mid 1980's Larry and Ray started putting together several effects for the magic market.

Three clowns at MAES: Ray Eyler, Larry, and Ed Sparrow

Those who knew Larry also know that mere words could not paint an accurate picture of the total man. His booming voice was recognized by all. His warm heart was always available to help others. And his sometimes off-the-wall humor brought laughter and pleasure. Above all, Larry loved magic and wasn't afraid to show it.

Larry with his wife, Lois

Larry was not only an excellent magical performer but was adapt at the piano even though he could not read music. On occasion he combined the two talents to provide entertainment for his audience.

Larry died of a sudden heart attack during the night of November 24, 1989. In 1993 the Assembly 23 of the Society of American Magicians was officially renamed the Larry West Assembly in his honor and to carry on his memory.

Troy Hooser Lecture

2008-10-03T06:59:00.002-04:00

Totally Troy!!!

TROY HOOSER LECTURE
OCTOBER 15, 2008
FREE FOR MEMBERS
NON-MEMBERS $10

Straight from the mind of Troy Hooser and into your repertoire. Discover the new lecture from Troy Hooser. This lecture is packed with Troy's favorite routines. Each routine is demonstrated and concisely explained. In addition, Troy describes all the subtleties and finesses required to perform each routine.

HERE'S A PREVIEW OF THE NEW LECTURE

Three coin effects, Three card effects, Three Miscellaneous effects, and a few extra routines thrown in. JUST TWO COINS-Just 2 normal coins vanish and appear at will. COINS ACROSS 101-Start loaded and end clean COINS TO THE BAG LESS PURSE -Three coins melt away visually as they are tossed to the bag less the purse. FOUR CARD MONTE-Troy's favorite card routine. Easy and fun to perform and worth the price of the lecture. TROY'S ACES -An easy to do Ace production with an incredibly colorful ending. PERSONALITY PROGNOSTICATION -A prediction with a killer ending that is easy to perform. RUBBER LOCK -Two rubber bands link and unlink and then they lock themselves together visibly. BOTTOMLESS BOX -Two crystal balls are magically produced from a bottom less box. LACES AND RING -A ribbon and ring routine with the bottomless box. Visual and fun for any audience. If you have any of Troy Hooser's DVDs, books, or effects then you know how good this lecture is going to be.

Sponsored by The Larry West Assembly No. 23, S.A.M.
National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.
Cocktails - 6:00 pm
Dinner - 6:30 pm
Lecture - 8:00 pm

Egg Bag - Sept 2008

2008-10-03T06:55:00.001-04:00

OUR NEXT MEETING –SEPTEMBER 17, 2008

THE THEME OF THE MEETING

Levitations, Penetrations and Teleportation! As well as show us what your working on!

While we have a theme you are at liberty to show us something else and perhaps you will be able to fit what you are working on into the theme. Remember the most important thing is that you perform.

SPECIAL NOTE

WED., OCTOBER 15, 2008

TROY HOOSER LECTURE

FREE FOR MEMBERS – NON-MEMBERS $10

Straight from the mind of Troy Hooser and into your repertoire. Discover the new lecture from Troy Hooser. This lecture is packed with Troy's favorite routines. Each routine is demonstrated and concisely explained. In addition, Troy describes all the subtleties and finesses required to perform each routine.

HERE'S A PREVIEW OF THE NEW LECTURE:

Three coin effects, Three card effects, Three Miscellaneous effects, and a few extra routines thrown in.

JUST TWO COINS-Just 2 normal coins vanish and appear at will. COINS ACROSS 101-Start loaded and end clean COINS TO THE BAG LESS PURSE-Three coins melt away visually as they are tossed to the bag less the purse. FOUR CARD MONTE-Troy's favorite card routine. Easy and fun to perform and worth the price of the lecture. TROY'S ACES-An easy to do Ace production with an incredibly colorful ending. PERSONALITY PROGNOSTICATION-A prediction with a killer ending that is easy to perform. RUBBER LOCK-Two rubber bands link and unlink and then they lock themselves together visibly. BOTTOMLESS BOX-Two crystal balls are magically produced from a bottom less box. LACES AND RING-A ribbon and ring routine with the bottomless box. Visua land fun for any audience. If you have any of Troy Hooser's DVDs, books, or effects then you know how good this lecture is going to be.

ANNUAL DUES ARE NOW PAST DUE IF YOU HAVE NOT PAID

Our dues are only $10 per year, a real bargain. If you have not yet paid dues for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009), you may pay the Treasurer, Noland Montgomery, at the meeting or mail your check payable to “Larry West Assembly 23” to Noland Montgomery, P.O. Box 581, Beltsville, Maryland 20704-0581.

Monkey Business:

Although due to vacations and other outside activities the meeting was not well attended we forged forward with the individual presentations.

Pres. Matt Hiller had Ray open several canisters, one inside the other, and examine them. He then turned a die to show a number, he chose, on top without exposing it to anyone. He then placed it inside the smallest canister and then placed that canister in the next canister, etc. After the various canisters had been nested, Matt then proceeded to divine the number Ray had chosen.

As a follow-up Matt demonstrated his ability to bend a cigarette in half without breaking it.

Noland Montgomery was next up performing an excellent cut & restored rope routine. Very well done.

Ray Eyler presented Larry West’s “Famous 4-Card Trick.” After having a card chosen, he attempted to mental locate the card to no avail after four tries, however, after the announcement of the chosen card showed that all four cards to be the chosen card only to have them change to the four suits and same value.

Lee Eyler regaled us with a new effect based on the “Paper Clipped Prediction.” After placing a folded bill inside a paper clip on the table, he borrowed a bill and had it signed. He then folded into a small package only to unfold it into a piece of paper with I..O.U. written on it. Picking up the bill that had been on the table in sight of everyone, removed the paper clip and unfolded the bill to expose it as the signed bill.

Joe Tessmer entertained us with his well done presentation of the “Coin Squeeze,” causing quarters one at a time to pass through an opening in a brass cylinder that was small than the couns.

Cristian Vidrascu presented his four card monte using three 7 of Hearts and an Ace of Diamonds. He dealt the cards to the table discarding a 7H and asked us to point out the AD – it had vanished. He then introduced an Okito Box and caused a coin to vanish, this was followed by his performance of a matrix.

He ended the performance with a series of vanishes, appearances and color changing of a poker chip that magically turned int a jumbo coin.

The group then retired to the Reliable Source for more fellowship and magic.

AL COHEN TO BE HONORED

The King Magic Ring will honor Al the evening of Wed., Sept. 24, 2008 at the Hagerstown American Legion Ballroom, 405 Northern Ave., Hagerstown, MD.

The evening will be a montage of interview and experience of a most magical nature. They will explore the history and purpose behind the Great Magic Demonstrator of the last century. I will be a blast. Admission $5. Contact John Swomley, 304-279-7780, e-mail trickyperson@peoplepc.com.

Egg Bag -- August 2008

2008-08-27T16:53:00.001-04:00

OUR NEXT MEETING – AUGUST 20, 2008

ANNUAL DUES:

Dues are now past due! Our dues are only $10 per year, a real bargain. If you have not yet paid dues for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009), you may pay the Treasurer, Noland Montgomery, at the meeting or mail your check payable to “Larry West Assembly 23” to Noland Montgomery, P.O. Box 581, Beltsville, Maryland 20704-0581.

Theme for this meeting: “Show us what you want to show us,” which is to say, there is no official theme this month. The meeting will be an opportunity for each member to show us a work in progress, or showcase a favorite routine, as he or she chooses. This is also an opportunity for performers looking for constructive feed back on their routines to ask for and receive it from other members.

FUTURE THEMES: To be announced.

IT HAPPENED IN JULY (Monkey Business):

The social portion of the meeting was started off by Phil Milstead performing what he called “Into the Temple We Went,” a tale about Indiana Jones at a Mayan Temple. He laid out 4 rows of cards 4 to a row. He then turned over several cards showing their randomness and with the assistance of a volunteer turned one row at a time onto itself until there was only one stack of cards. When he had finished the only face up cards were the Aces. Repeating the lay-out and folding in showed that the cards could be made to end with various outcomes. Very puzzling.

Joe Tessmer regaled us by causing a borrowed quarter to be pushed through the bottom of a water bottle.

Ray Eyler next introduced us to one of KeeWest’s Instant Magic Tricks called “A Frog Kissing.”

With the use of cards which had cartoons of a Princess, a Frog, and a Prince Charming on them, told us told tale of a Princess looking for her Prince Charming with a surprise ending.

He followed this with a performance of Larry West’s “Another Stretch on the Elongated Lady.” Showing 3 cards that represented an illusion, caused the Queen to be stretched. After the stretching, she was restored, the illusion turned around and opened as the Queen took her bow. Ray showed that he used more than 3 cards, he had used 4 instead, two spot cards as the cabinet of the illusion, the Queen and last but not least the card showing who had performed the magic. This card had Ray’s name printed on its face.

Our Prez, Matt Hiller, was next to introduce us to “Greed.” He displayed a $1 bill and upon folding it showed that it had turned into a $5, a $10, a $20 and a $50 which he turned into a Half Dollar Coin.

Dwight Redman had a card chosen and then with the help of some cards that we could see through showed us his performance of “See Thru Prediction.” After showing the cards to be transparent and blank proceeded to correctly predict the chosen card which could be seen through the transparent cards. He then performed the “One hand Card Trick,” producing the chosen card from his pocket. Don’t remember what he was doing with the other hand.

Larry Lipman offered James Munton’s “Three Card Bunny,” a beautiful rendition of the classic monte effect with faces of large male and female bunnies on them with a surprise ending all to accompaniment of cleaver verse.

Steve Javes offered us a view of a monte-type printing effect he hopes to market. He showed us a packet of bland cards and then caused a “Gift Card” to printed on the face of a blank card.

Ending the evening’s presentations was Christian Vidrascu stretching our evening with a rendition of “Crazy Man’s Handcuffs” which was followed by the vanishing rubber band that turned up in the pocket of our President.

We then retired to the Reliable Source for more fellowship and informal magic.

New Officers

2008-08-01T10:05:00.002-04:00

Phil Milstead presents officers Ray Eyler, dean and secretary, and new president Matt Hiller. (Photo by Larry Lipman)

Photos from National Press Club Picnic

2008-08-01T10:00:00.004-04:00

Assembly 23 members performed again at this year's National Press Club picnic. Top down are Larry Lipman, Noland Montgomery, Eric Redman, and Dwight Redman (photos by Joe Tessmer)

Treasurer Noland Montgomery Featured in Washington Post

2008-06-30T17:13:00.002-04:00

Assembly 23 Treasurer Noland Montgomery was featured in a great article and video for The Washington Post. Check it out:

Here's the Real Trick: Practice Makes Presto

Former Assembly President James Munton Gives Free Lecture

2008-06-30T17:10:00.001-04:00

An email from James:

Hi everyone!

I can't wait to get back and see all my old magic buddies! I'm really excited about this lecture. If you came to the previous lecture I did for SAM 23 you'll know I put an emphasis on workable material that you'll be able to go out and actually use. Several of the routines are from my own performing repertoire that I use every week to earn a living. I'll also have new material (and products!) so if you did attend the previous lecture there will be plenty of new stuff, including a brand new mentalism routine that I think is well worth coming to the lecture to learn.

Anyway, the lecture is F-R_E*E but only if you register in advance. Otherwise it is $5 at the door.

Here is the info:

When: July 11 at 8PM

Where: Falls Church Community Center, 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church, VA

There will be over $300 worth of fantastic door prizes for a few lucky people, but only if you register now!

For more information about the lecture and a registration form, please click on the link below:

http://www.jamesmunton.com/lecture/Lecture.html

Big thanks to Larry Lipman for helping to organize everything. Look forward to seeing you all there!

Best regards,

James

P.S. I hope you can also make it to one of my shows at the International Spy Museum.

More info at http://spymuseum.org/programs/calendar_pages/2008/q3/2008_07_13_ks_prog.php

James Munton

www.jamesmunton.com

james@jamesmunton.com

Egg Bag - June 2008

2008-06-20T17:22:00.000-04:00

Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23 Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

Join us for magic, fun and fellowship. Cocktails start at 6 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting at 8 p.m. Dress code: please remember that the Assembly is a guest of the National Press Club. Gentlemen should dress business casual or better–no Tee-shirts, shorts, jeans or flip-flops to the dinner meetings. Ladies should dress correspondingly appropriately.

OUR NEXT MEETING – JUNE 18, 2008

ANNUAL DUES:

Dues are now past due! Our dues are only $10 per year, a real bargain. If you have not yet paid dues for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009), you may pay the Treasurer, Noland Montgomery, at the meeting or mail your check payable to “Larry West Assembly 23” to Noland Montgomery, P.O. Box 581, Beltsville, Maryland 20704-0581.

Theme for this meeting:

The theme is “Show us what you want to show us,” which is to say, there is no official theme this month. The meeting will be an opportunity for each member to show us a work in progress, or showcase a favorite routine, as he or she chooses. This is also an opportunity for performers looking for constructive feed back on their routines to ask for and receive it from other members.

OFFICER ELECTION: The following officers for the new term (July 2008-June 2009) were nominated at the May 2008 meeting, and will be voted on at the June 18, 2008 meeting: President: Matt Hiller; Vice President: Lars Klores; Treasurer: Noland Montgomery; Secretary: Ray Eyler. The incoming president is also responsible for appointing the Assembly reporter and Web Site Administrator.

FUTURE THEMES:

July-“Show us what you want to show us”

(Additonal themes to be added after installation of Assembly’s new President)

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE:

I’ve been president of enough organizations to know that while the president often gets the credit for a successful year, many people contributed to that success.

I believe we have had a successful year in the Larry West Assembly 23 and a lot of people are responsible for it.

This past year we began two new endeavors I hope will continue in the future.

The first was the mini-lectures at the end of our regular meetings. Many thanks to all those who lectured. I learned some things and I hope others did as well. I hope we can continue the practice of having one member a month offer a mini-lecture.

The second new endeavor was the inaugural “Sammy Award.” This year we honored Barry Taylor at an evening I think many will remember for a long time. Many thanks to our incoming president, Matt Hiller, for taking on this task and organizing a great event. I hope we continue the Sammy Awards. It gave us great exposure in the magic community and we should do all we can to continue encouraging the area’s top magicians to be a part of S.A.M. Assembly 23.

Over the years, we have had a long and excellent relationship with the National Press Club and this year we expanded that in a couple of ways.

After a long hiatus, the Press Club last year held the first of what is likely to be an annual summer family picnic and they asked us to be a part of it. Many thanks to Sam Brothers and Dwight Redman, who joined me doing walk-around magic and a kid’s show for the NPC picnickers. They’ve asked us back again this summer.

As usual, we participated in the Press Club’s annual holiday party in December. Hugh Turley, Dwight Redman and I did walk-around for the adults and children – many thanks.

Once again, we were called on to be a part of the NPC presidential inauguration. Thanks to Noland Montgomery for filling the bill that night.

It only comes around once in a hundred years, but this year the Press Club celebrated its centennial and asked us to be a part of the entertainment. A big thanks to Dwight Redman, “The Legendary” Rick Beatty, and Cristian Vidrascu for doing walk-around magic at the centennial.

And finally, we capped the year with our annual Close Up Magic Show in April. Based on several successful previous years, this year we had an overflow turnout and were forced to open a third room.

Many thanks to our performers: Bud Smith, Hugh Turley, Lee Eyler, Sam Brothers, Dwight Redman and Lars Klores. This marked Lars’ debut performance before a large audience and I hope it was just the first of his many performances. A big thanks to Noland Montgomery, who jumped in to help perform because our performers had to do three rooms instead of two. Steve Javes, as usual, did his elegant emcee role; and a huge hand to Ray Eyler, practically fresh out of the hospital, who pitched in as the third emcee.

There were some other highlights to the year, primarily our lecture with George Schindler. Again, that event reached out to the greater Washington magic community and I think we should continue striving for such top quality lecturers.

We tried something this year that, I think, had mixed success. Instead of having a monthly theme as we have had for many years, I thought maybe we should have a breather and allow members to just “show us what you want to show us.”

I hope that worked for you, but now that we’ve had that breather, I for one, would welcome monthly themes. Sometimes I find them restraining, but they also challenge us to think about new material or new ways to use old material, and I think that is a good thing.

As I said earlier, many people are responsible for our success. I want to particularly thank Ray Eyler for his advice and encouragement at the beginning of my term. Ray was largely responsible for our selection of George Schindler. It’s good to have Ray back after a rough several months.

Thanks to Sam Brothers for keeping track of what we did every month and to Lars Klores who kept up our website. I hope we continue to make good use of that site and hopefully attract new members.

Finally, I want to express my appreciation to Noland Montgomery. Not only is Noland an award-winning magician, he is also one of the most organized people I know. The club would not have run as efficiently as it did this year without Noland.

In addition to serving as our treasurer, (and with our hefty $10 dues he has made a substantial down-payment on a leaky rowboat) Noland also jumped in and took over publication of the Egg Bag in Ray’s absence. And Noland was constantly giving me suggestions and making sure that what needed to be done was being done. We are truly lucky to have Noland as such an active member.

A lot of people contributed this past year, but if there is one weakness in our club it is that we are stretched awfully thin. If we are to survive and thrive in the future we need to attract more new members who will contribute. One such new member is Joe Tessmer. Not only has Joe taken an increased interest in the performance of magic but he has also generously contributed his talents as a photographer to help us document and promote our activities, such as taking pictures at the evening to honor Barry and at the close up show.

We need new blood and people willing to pitch in and carry the load of responsibilities for running this club and performing at future events for the National Press Club. I encourage each of you to be on the lookout for new members who can make a contribution to our assembly. And I encourage those who have not been as active in the past as they could be to also contribute more.

If you review the list of those who participated and contributed this past year, many of them are the ones who have contributed significantly in the past. We need more participation and willingness to serve.

At Wednesday night’s meeting, we will elect a new slate of officers. I offer them best wishes for an even more successful 2008-2009. It has been an honor to serve this past year as your president.

Larry Lipman, President,

Society of American Magicians Assembly 23

The Larry West Assembly

A Brief History of The Larry West Assembly 23

2008-05-18T17:19:00.006-04:00

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE LARRY WEST ASSEMBLY 23,

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS

In 1930 the magicians in the Washington, D.C. area formed what was to be Assembly 23, of the Society of American Magicians.

Its first official meeting took place at the National Press Club in December of that year. The SPHINX, An Independent Magazine For Magicians, (then the official organ of the Society) records in its issue of January 1939 that the 6th Annual National Press Club Show for the NPC members and family was a great success. In the early days the Assembly met regularly in what was know as the Silver Room where it entertained the notable magicians of the times as they either performed in Washington or were passing through. This included other well know show biz personalities who dabbled in the art.

The Assembly from time to time has also been home base for many of the well known national and local magicians, too numerable to mention. The SPHINX reports that Arthur Godfrey, Arch McDonald, a well known sports-caster, Joe Kuhel, then manager of the Washington Senators baseball club, applied for and were granted membership in the mid 30's while in later times many of our present day magic notables have enjoyed membership with the Washington Assembly.

The Assembly's association with the National Press Club has remained steady through the years. On December 11, 1980 in the old Ballroom we jointly celebrated our 50th year of association at a show given by the Assembly for the members of the N.P.C. and S.A.M. Joining the celebration was President of the National Press Club Drew von Bergen and President of the Assembly, Dr. William A. Wells. The Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Mr. John Harter, local T.V. news anchor. The close-up performers were: Al Cohen, Larry Davidson, Leon Picon, Barry Taylor, Hugh Turley, Dr. Wells, Larry West, Joe Sobel and Charles Zuis. On stage were: Christian the Magician, The KEE & Co. (Ray & Lee Eyler), Dr. Chang and the Gustafsons.

Members of the Assembly have provided the talent for the annual N.P.C. Christmas (now Holiday party), they have taken part in many activities of the N.P.C. and were a part of the the Wrecker's Ball at the "close of the old Press Club" and at the "Grand Opening" of the New Press Club facilities.

After the untimely death of Larry West, a well know magical personality and well known among National Press Club members, in April 1993 the Assembly was officially renamed the Larry West Assembly in his honor. Representing the national Society for the renaming ceremony was Fr. Cyprian, then President of the Society of American Magicians. Charles Zuis, the Assembly President opened the ceremonies and then turned over the podium to Ray Eyler as master of ceremonies for the evening. In addition to the renaming of the Assembly the past presidents were recognized and Dave Lederman was installed as our Dean of Magic. Today Ray Eyler serves in this capacity.

Past presidents of the Assembly No. 23, of the Society of American Magicians as they gathered for the re-naming of the Assembly to the Larry West Assembly (1993). Left to Right top row left to right: Alan Drew, Kenneth Trombley, Ray Eyler, Ron Bacon, Charlie Zuis (then Assembly President). Middle row: Ken Norris, Chuck Nuneville, Don Williams, Dr. Dick Wunderlich, Scott Bueller. Front row: Lee Eyler, Fr. Cyprian, Dr. William Wells, Harold (Doc) Dougherty.

Others who have service as President of the Assembly: (In the 1930's) C. F .R. Ogilby; Charles H. Small; R. E. Otterback; Theo T. Golden; Harry H. Baker; F. H. Untiedt; Charles Nyquist; (In the 1940's) Ralph Mittendorff; Carl D. Shoemaker; Trenis L. Jones; C. B. Petree; Hon. Fritz G. Lanhan; George C. Hench; Franklin V. Taylor: Fred M. Johansen; George Walter: (In the 1950's) Carl E. Brockway; Robert Shaw; Willard S. Swayer; Raymond M. Hicks; Orville Meyer; Mario DePrato; Fred M. Johanson; Willam Adamson; Hans Raab; (In the 1960's) Edward Campagna; Edward Tindal; Allan W. Houghton; Dr. I. Rutkoski; Henning Nelms; Wenton Carroll; (In the 1970's) Jim Temple; Larry West; Matthew Permick, Ron Bacon (In the 1980's - 90's & 2000's) Eric Wolf; Scotty Scafidi; Dwight Redman; James Munton; Hugh Turley; Scott Miller, Lee Eyler, Eric Feinberg; John Flanagan, Walter (Bud) Smith; Noland Montgomery. Today Larry Lipman serves as our Assembly President

There were others that served during the period of the 1960's to the present which are not listed. If anyone has additional information please send it to ceyler1026@aol.com.

Ray Eyler, Fr. Cyprian and Charlie Zuis at the Renaming of the Assembly

Fr. Cyprian making the formal announcement of the change of name of Assembly 23 to the Larry West Assembly

Egg Bag - May 2008

2008-05-18T16:25:00.006-04:00

Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23 Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

OUR NEXT MEETING – MAY 21, 2008

ANNUAL DUES:

Dues are now due! Our dues are only $10 per year, a real bargain. If you have not yet paid dues for the new fiscal year (April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009), you may pay the Treasurer, Noland Montgomery, at the meeting or mail your check payable to “Larry West Assembly 23” to Noland Montgomery, P.O. Box 581, Beltsville, Maryland 20704-0581.

Theme for this meeting:

OFFICER NOMINATIONS: Officers for the new term (July 2008-June 2009) will be nominated at the meeting. The officers proposed for nomination by the Nominating Committee are as follows: President: Matt Hiller; Vice President: Lars Klores; Treasurer: Noland Montgomery; Secretary: Ray Eyler. Additional nominations may be made from the floor at the meeting. Election of the officers will be held at the June meeting.

FUTURE THEMES:

June-“Show us what you want to show us” and election of new officers

PERFORMANCES AT THE ANNUAL ASSEMBLY 23 NATIONAL PRESS CLUB SHOW:

The annual close-up magic show at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. is one of the highlights of the year for the Larry West Assembly, S.A.M. #23 and this year’s show, which assembly members put on in lieu of the regular April meeting, lived up to its billing. Seven magicians performed for an overflow crowd that required the use of three rooms, instead of the two rooms the assembly has performed for in recent years. The annual show is free to Press Club members and their guests as part of an arrangement the assembly has with the club in exchange for free meeting space.

The magicians offered a variety of comedy, close-up, children’s and adult magic. Assembly President Larry Lipman, Assembly Dean Ray Eyler and longtime member Steve Javes did the honors as masters of ceremony in the three rooms. Only six magicians were scheduled to perform, but because the overflow crowd forced the opening of a third room.

Dwight Redman stumped the crowd with his rendition of Dean Dill’s Box and with a torn and restored card routine in which he compared the torn card to an automobile’s body work. (Photo by Joe Tessmer)

Lee Eyler offered classic magic with his renditions of What’s Next, cut and restored rope and the Chinese Linking Rings. (Photo by Joe Tessmer)

Turley the Magician (Hugh Turley) brought his brand of children’s magic with a torn and restored napkin routine that worked for the child but somehow left Turley’s napkin in tatters. He had better luck, thankfully, with his sword through the neck of a trusting volunteer. (Photo by Joe Tessmer)

Bud Smith, who rarely performs for children, kept the family audience in stitches with his version of Fred Kap’s variation of Edward Victor’s 11-card trick done with dollar bills. Bud kept counting the bills, but when the volunteer counted them there was always a discrepancy. (Photo by Joe Tessmer)

Lars Klores, making his public debut, did several card tricks including a clever routine in which a card was nailed and stapled to a board, only to wind up free and a different card was found attached to the board. (Photo by Joe Tessmer)

Sam Brothers also did a series of stunning card tricks including his version of Rainbow Deck. (Photo by Joe Tessmer)

Noland Montgomery filled in with comedy magic featuring his puppet “Chester the Rabbit,” who delighted the children by doing just the opposite of everything Noland told him to do. (Photo by Joe Tessmer)

Egg Bag - April 2008

2008-04-07T19:06:00.000-04:00

Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23 Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

Join us for magic, fun and fellowship. Cocktails normally start at 6 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting at 8 p.m. However, please plan to come early for the April 2008 meeting as the evening show will start promptly at 7:00 p.m. Dress code: please remember that the Assembly is a guest of the National Press Club. Gentlemen should dress business casual or better–no Tee-shirts, shorts, jeans or flip-flops to the dinner meetings. Ladies should dress correspondingly appropriately.

ANNUAL DUES:

OUR NEXT MEETING:

In lieu of the regularly scheduled meeting, the Assembly will hold its annual close-up/parlor show for the National Press Club members and other guests on Wednesday, April 16, 2008. The show is free to the public and starts at 7:00 p.m. instead of at the regular 8:00 p.m. meeting time. Please arrive early and if you will be dining at the Press Club, arrive extra early. Press Club members, Assembly members, non-member magicians and their guests are all invited. The performances are family-oriented, so children of all ages are welcome. Performers will include Turley the Magician, Lee Eyler, Buddy Smith, Sam Brothers, Lars Klores and Dwight Redman. Rick Beatty and Steve Javes will be the evening emcees.

SPECIAL MARCH EVENT:

At the March 19 Assembly meeting, Barry Taylor was the recipient of the Assembly's first annual "Sammy Award". The dinner was well attended without a single empty seat at the table.

Larry Lipman began the evening with a very short business meeting. The following topics were discussed: the Annual Close-Up show at the National Press Club to be held on April 16th starting at 7:00 p.m. as well as the upcoming IBM Ring 50 Magi-Whirl 2008 to be held March 28th and 29th. The motion was made and seconded to have Sam Brothers carry a proxy vote for the chapter at the National IBM/SAM Meeting in June 2008. The meeting was adjourned at 7:42 p.m.

All the dinner attendees moved to a larger room in the club and were treated to a standing room only roast in honor of Barry Taylor.

The roast began with a video from Dallas-based James Munton featuring special "guest appearances" (actually, James wearing various disguises) from some of the top names in the magic field such as: a very muscular Greg Wilson, a thoughtful Jeff McBride, Chef Aldo Combini, a hacking Martin Nash, a strangely powerful Max Maven, Dan Harlan, and finally some kind words from James himself.

Then a beautiful and touching video montage was played that was created by Barry's wife Suzie. It was a myriad of photos of Barry showing his history from his beginnings in magic to recent photos with various top names in the industry.

Larry Davidson gave several hilarious stories about Barry struggling to get his start with his magic store. George Woo spoke about several other very funny situations as well. Barry Wood spoke about his relationship with Barry and expressed his frustration as always getting called "the other Barry”. Joe Zable performed a very funny and creative mentalist routine with several cards and spoke about Barry the man, the punster, the lecturer, the shop keeper, his wife, the psychic ghost theatre and his relationship with Al Cohen and Al’s magic shop in Washington, DC.

Al Cohen spoke at great length about his relationship with Barry. Al then performed a card revelation in which the spectator sat on a freely chosen card, and Al seemingly discovered the name of the card by shining a light into the spectator's mouth and down his throat. His second routine was a CD that played by itself without a player.

Next, Larry Lipman presented Barry with a beautiful SAM Assembly 23 Sammy Award plaque. Barry then gave a warm and at times, emotional, speech, and presented a wonderful poem about the rewards of being a magic dealer. He closed the evening with a fantastic stage version of the 3 card monte in which all three card ended up being the same!

FUTURE THEMES:

May-“Show us what you want to show us” and nomination of new officers

June-“Show us what you want to show us” and election of new officers

OTHER NON-ASSEMBLY EVENTS OF INTEREST:

June 6 and 7, 2008 will be the annual Parlour Magic Foray of Famous Unknown Magicians and Clowns. This year’s featured performer and lecturer will be Bev Bergeron. Please refer to the attached message from Charlies Zuis, an out-of-town Assembly 23 member, for information concerning this annual event, which will be held at the Hall of Fame of Famous Unknown Magicians and Clowns near Cooperstown, New York.

Pictures from National Press Club Centennial Celebration

2008-04-07T18:47:00.003-04:00

Cristian Vidrascu, Rick Beatty and Dwight Redman entertained guests April 5 at the National Press Club's centennial celebration. Here are some pictures from the festivities. (Photos by Larry Lipman)

SAMMY Award Presented to Barry Taylor

2008-03-27T17:01:00.003-04:00

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Long-time magic dealer Barry Taylor was honored at the March meeting of Assembly 23, the Larry West Assembly, with the first of what may become an annual “SAMMY Award” for lifetime contribution to magic.

Taylor, owner of Barry’s Magic Shop in Rockville, Md., was roasted and toasted by a panel of area magicians including legendary magic shop proprietor Al Cohen, whose Washington store closed five years go.

Others toasting Barry’s 34 years in the magic store business included George Woo, Larry Davidson, Barry Wood, and Joe Zabel.

Dallas-based magician James “Wand” Munton, Assembly 23’s immediate past president, compiled a hilarious video tribute for Barry in which Munton shamelessly imitated some well known magical personalities including Gregory Wilson, Jeff McBride, Aldo Colombini, Max Maven, Martin Nash and Dan Harlan.

Barry’s wife, Susie, also put together a touching slideshow tribute to her husband.

The presentation of the first SAMMY Award to Barry Taylor was made by Assembly 23 President Larry Lipman.

Barry accepted the award with a gracious speech about the joys of magic and then entertained with a giant-card Monte routine.

Barry Taylor, (left) owner of Barry’s Magic Shop in Rockville, Md., receives the first SAMMY Award for lifetime contribution to magic from Assembly 23 President Larry Lipman at the March meeting. Al Cohen, bottom left, looks on. (Photo by Joseph Tessmer)

Here Comes the Judge

2008-03-21T09:36:00.003-04:00

Photos of Assembly member Apurva Sanghi performing at a private event in March 2008, assisted by U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Stephen G. Breyer

Apurva makes his case to Justice Breyer.

Justice Breyer administered the magic oath by Apurva

Egg Bag - March Issue

2008-03-16T20:36:00.000-04:00

Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23 Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

OUR NEXT MEETING – MARCH 19, 2008

SPECIAL MARCH EVENT:

Our March meeting will be the first Annual “Sammy Award” night honoring Barry Taylor. The evening will begin at 6:30 with cocktails, dinner at 7 p.m. is optional for $25 and the program will begin at 8 p.m. The program (not including any dinner) is free to Assembly 23 members and $10 for non-members. Attached to this newsletter is a flyer promoting the event for distribution to interested non-members.

FUTURE THEMES:

April-“Annual Close-up Show”

May-“Show us what you want to show us” and nomination of new officers

June-“Show us what you want to show us” and election of new officers

PERFORMANCES FROM FEBRUARY 2008 MEETING.

Rick Beatty performed three effects with the four aces. First, three aces were made to magically join a fourth ace held in a spectator’s hand. Then, the deck was divided into four piles, with one ace being placed in each pile and the piles returned to the deck. Rick spelled to the ace of diamonds and then to the ace of clubs. The last two aces were found when Rick cut them to the top of the deck. To finish, Rick again lost the four aces in the deck, had the deck shuffled and cut by a spectator, but still successfully cut the deck to each ace.

Noland Montgomery performed a “multiple selection” routine in which seven cards chosen by each of seven different spectators were lost in a shuffled deck, and then found by Noland in different ways, as follows: the first card was found by rubbing the deck against Noland’s nose; the second, when Noland “read” a spectator’s mind; the third, when Noland cut the cards to the chosen card; the fourth, when Noland blew on the face of the third card, magically changing it into the fourth spectator’s selection; the fifth, when one card turned over face up in mid-air; the sixth, when it popped up from the deck; and the last (which had been signed by a spectator), in Noland’s wallet.

Larry Lipman performed a variation of monte using four cards, called “Poor Man’s Monte.” Using three tens and one queen, Larry first showed the three tens, placed the queen among the tens and put one ten in his pocket. The pocketed ten then seemingly changed into the queen. Again, the queen was replaced among the tens and one ten placed in the pocket. This time all the cards in Larry’s hand changed into queens.

Jonathan Walker performed a three card monte routine using an ace, two and three in which the location of the ace repeatedly proved impossible to track.

Cristian Vidrascu performed a guessing routine he called a “Tribute to my mentor.” Spectators were asked to guess the name, height and age of Cristian’s magic mentor. Cristian recorded each guess on the back of separate business cards. At the conclusion, each guess was found to correctly match the information Cristian had earlier written down on three other cards. Cristian also performed a routine in which five spectators were asked to write down their favorite destinations on some cards and then asked one spectator to mix up the cards. Cristian was subsequently successful in guessing which spectator had chosen which destination.

Joe Tessmer performed a color changing disc routine called “Black and White or Not,” in which two discs were shown to be white on one side, and black on the other. The discs then magically changed colors to red/green and then to yellow/blue.

Matt Hiller performed a quick coin production in which a card was turned over four times in succession, with a coin appearing under the coin each time the card was turned over.

Dwight Redman performed a version of Professor’s Nightmare, as follows: first, Dwight folded a single piece of rope into three equal lengths and had a spectator apparently cut the rope into three equal pieces. The pieces were again shown to be equal, then balled up and handed to a spectator to separate. When the spectator separated the pieces, they were found to be three different lengths. Next, Dwight magically stretched the ropes until all three were equal again. Finally, Dwight, together with a spectator, tied all three pieces end to end and then made the knots magically disappear, restoring the rope back to one, long piece.

Egg Bag February 2008

2008-02-17T16:09:00.010-05:00

THE EGG-BAG-FEBRUARY 2008 ISSUE

Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23 Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

OUR NEXT MEETING – FEBRUARY 20, 2008

Theme for this meeting:

UPCOMING SPECIAL MARCH EVENT:

FUTURE THEMES:

March-First annual “Sammy Award” honoring Barry Taylor

April-“Annual Close-up Show”

May-“Show us what you want to show us”

Assembly member Noland Montgomery performing strolling magic at the 2008 Annual Press Club Inaugural Event

Assembly 23 Treasurer Noland Montgomery impresses a guest with his magic

and humor at the National Press Club's presidential inauguration Jan.
26. S.A.M. members regularly perform at NPC events. The assembly will
also entertain at the Press Club's centennial celebration on April 5 and
at the annual Close Up show on April 16. (Photo by Larry Lipman)

First Annual Sammy Awards

2008-01-22T11:17:00.000-05:00

Our March meeting will be The First Annual "Sammy Award" Night honoring Barry Taylor. The evening will begin at 6:30 with cocktails, dinner at 7 p.m. is optional for $25 and the program will begin at 8 p.m.

Egg Bag January 2008

2008-01-13T23:22:00.000-05:00

THE EGG-BAG-JANUARY 2008 ISSUE

Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23 Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

OUR NEXT MEETING – JANUARY 16, 2008

Theme for this meeting:

The suggested theme is “Love Story,” so dust off your favorite Valentine-day trick and give it a trial-run at the meeting. Or, just “show us what you want to show us,” which is to say, perform a work in progress (no Valentine-day theme) or showcase a favorite routine.

MINI-LECTURE:

This month’s topic: “Fantasy in Silk.” Presenter, Phil Milstead, will teach some silk productions as well as the nuts-and-bolts of silk folding and preparation that is essential to the production of anything from a 12 inch silk to a 6-foot square foulard. Phil suggests that members bring 4 or 5 silks, mostly 12” and 18” for a hands-on practice session.

If there is a topic you would like to see covered, or a topic you would like to volunteer to teach, please e-mail your suggestion to Larry Lipman at: lorenzomagic@cox.net. Remember, the idea behind our mini-lectures is that one member will spend 5 to 10 minutes at each meeting demonstrating a move, a technique or a trick and teach the rest of us.

FUTURE THEMES:

February-“Show us what you want to show us”

March-“Show us what you want to show us”

April-“Annual Close-up Show”

May-“Show us what you want to show us”

OFFICERS:

President - Larry Lipman

Vice President - Matt Hiller

Treasurer - Noland Montgomery

Secretary - Ray Eyler

Egg-Bag Reporter - Sam Brothers

Webmaster – Lars Klores

EDITOR’S NOTE:

Remember to check out our web page at www.assembly23.blogspot.com.

Egg Bag, November

2007-11-26T10:16:00.000-05:00

THE EGG-BAG-NOVEMBER 2007 ISSUE

Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23

Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

Join us for magic, fun & fellowship. Cocktails start at 6 p.m., dinner at 6:30 and the Meeting at 8 p.m. Dress code: please remember that the Assembly is a guest of the National Press Club. Gentlemen should dress business casual or better–no Tee-shirts, shorts, jeans or flip-flops to the dinner meetings. Ladies should dress correspondingly appropriately.

OUR NEXT MEETING – NOVEMBER 21, 2007

Theme for this meeting:

The suggested theme for this meeting is “Holiday Magic” so that members can brush up on their Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and any other holiday-related tricks they may wish to present during the upcoming holiday season. As always, the theme is not mandatory and members are also more than welcome to present any trick of their choosing (not holiday themed), whether it be a work in progress, that they are seeking constructive feed-back on, or simply a favorite trick.

MINI-LECTURE:

This month’s topic: “Color changes, transformations and switches with a deck of playing cards”

Presenter: The Legendary Rick Beatty

LAST MONTH:

George Schindler was our featured lecturer at the October meeting and drew a packed house with his “Entertainment is First” lecture. George performed and explained his stand-up comedy routine, done entirely from his pocket and drawing heavily on playing cards. George’s professional routine is extremely practical, plays big and very, very funny. For those who missed the lecture, a portion of his presentation is available on DVD from your favorite dealer. George’s lecture was a real education in how to structure and present a highly entertaining, commercial magic routine.

FUTURE THEMES:

December-“Show us what you want to show us”

January-Love Story (Valentine day magic)

February-“Show us what you want to show us”

March-“Show us what you want to show us”

April-“Annual Close-up Show”

May-“Show us what you want to show us”

OFFICERS:

President - Larry Lipman

Vice President - Matt Hiller

Treasurer - Noland Montgomery

Secretary - Ray Eyler

Egg-Bag Reporter - Sam Brothers

Webmaster – Lars Klores

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE FROM LARRY LIPMAN:

The National Press Club and S.A.M. Assembly 23, the Larry West Assembly, have a long history together. And we have an unwritten tradition: the Club provides us with hundreds of dollars worth of free meeting space each year and allows us to dine and drink in what is normally an NPC members only area.

In exchange, the Assembly provides free magical entertainment at Press Club functions. One of the most rewarding of these functions, from a performer’s standpoint, is the annual Children’s Holiday Party. This event is usually attended by hundreds of Club members and their families. There is food, drink, games, and Santa Claus. Over the years, a handful of our members have performed children’s strolling magic at the party. This year the party will be held Saturday, Dec. 15 beginning at 11 a.m.

I’m looking for a few magicians who would be willing to perform that afternoon. For those of you who want a little more performing “flight time,” this is the perfect venue: you will not be performing alone so you don’t have to worry about being the sole magical entertainer; and you’re not doing it for payment, so you don’t have to worry that you’re not giving the clients their “money’s worth.” At the same time, you will gain invaluable experience and have a great and rewarding time bringing smiles to the faces of young and old alike.

Normally, the performance is about two hours. But you are not expected to perform for the entire solid two hours. If you would like to do it, please contact me at: lorenzomagic@cox.net.

There will be several other opportunities to perform at the Club. At the end of January, there will be the NPC presidential inauguration. We usually provide two or three very good close-up strolling magicians for this adult, black-tie event. If you think you can handle it and would like to be considered for performance, send me a note to the above address.

This year there will be two opportunities for Assembly magi to perform in April. The Club will be celebrating its 100^th Anniversary with a gala event on Saturday, April, 5. We’ll again be looking for top-notch strolling magicians to entertain adults. Let me know if you would like to be considered for performance.

And our annual Close Up show, for a family-style audience of children and adults, will be the third Thursday of April, in place of our regular meeting. Again, this is a wonderful opportunity to get performing experience, or just help us keep our share of the bargain with the Press Club. This is more of a parlor magic style show in front of about 25 to 40 people in a couple of rooms. We’ll let you know more about it as we get closer to the date. But if you want to be considered for performance, particularly if you have not done so in the past, please let us know.

I am also discussing the possibility of some of our members providing brief magical stand-up entertainment at the Press Club’s monthly “Pub Quiz” nights. I’ll let you know more about that if we can work it out.

Assembly 23 is different from some other magic clubs. We emphasize the performance of magic. That’s why everyone performs at every regular meeting. These events with the Press Club allow us to stretch our performance wings even farther.

Pictures from the October Meeting

2007-10-23T14:27:00.001-04:00

Former SAM national president George Schindler is
greeted by SAM 23 President Larry Lipman

Former SAM national president George Schindler gave SAM 23
Vice President Matt Hiller his new-member pin and certificate

Egg Bag - October 2007

2007-10-15T11:27:00.000-04:00

THE EGG-BAG-OCTOBER 2007 ISSUE

Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23

Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

OUR NEXT MEETING – OCTOBER 17, 2007

LECTURE:

George Schindler will be our featured lecturer at the October meeting. You won’t want to miss this! Those who have had the good luck to see George perform before know him as a very funny and entertaining performer who presents highly commercial magic. In addition, George is a dean of and past president of the Society of American Magicians. He has authored nine books on magic, is a leading authority on the art of ventriloquism, a celebrated comedy magician, lecturer and a Gold Star member of London’s prestigious Inner Magic Circle. George also is an inductee of the Society of American Magicians Hall of Fame and has been honored with the Milbourne Christopher Life Time achievement Award for Magic.

The lecture is free to members who are paid-up. If you are in arrears, you can still attend the lecture free by paying your dues ($10) at or prior to the October meeting. Magicians who are not members are welcome but will be charged $10 at the door. Please help get the word out to non-member magicians that they are invited to join us for this lecture.

FUTURE THEMES:

November-Holiday magic

December-“Show us what you want to show us”

January-Love Story (Valentine day magic)

February-“Show us what you want to show us”

March-“Show us what you want to show us”

April-“Show us what you want to show us”

May-“Show us what you want to show us”

OFFICERS:

President - Larry Lippman

Vice President - Matt Hiller

Treasurer - Noland Montgomery

Secretary - Ray Eyler

Egg-Bag Reporter–Sam Brothers

Egg Bag, Sept. 2007

2007-09-19T18:25:00.001-04:00

THE EGG-BAG-SEPTEMBER 2007 ISSUE

Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23

Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

OUR NEXT MEETING – SEPTEMBER 19, 2007

Theme for this meeting:

The suggested theme for this meeting is “Halloween magic,” so that members can brush up on their bizarre, ghoulish and scary tricks in preparation for the upcoming Halloween month. As always, the theme is not mandatory and members are also more than welcome to present any trick of their choosing (not Halloween themed), whether it be a work in progress, that they are seeking constructive feed-back on, or simply a favorite trick.

HEADS UP FOR UPCOMING GEORGE SCHINDLER LECTURE:

We are very excited to let you know that the Assembly has secured the services of George Schindler to lecture at next month’s (October) meeting. You won’t want to miss this! Those who have had the good luck to see George perform before know him as a very funny and entertaining performer who presents highly commercial magic. In addition, George is a dean of and past president of the Society of American Magicians. He has authored nine books on magic, is a leading authority on the art of ventriloquism, a celebrated comedy magician, lecturer and a Gold Star member of London’s prestigious Inner Magic Circle. George also is an inductee of the Society of American Magicians Hall of Fame and has been honored with the Milbourne Christopher Life Time achievement Award for Magic.

FUTURE THEMES:

October-George Schindler lecture

November-Holiday magic

December-“Show us what you want to show us”

January-Love Story (Valentine day magic)

February-“Show us what you want to show us”

March-“Show us what you want to show us”

April-“Show us what you want to show us”

May-“Show us what you want to show us”

MINI-LECTURE:

This month’s topic: “Survival Tips for Performing Close-up Surrounded with Cards”

Presenter: Noland Montgomery

Noland will share some sleights, subtleties and strategies he has learned from his experience as a strolling magician at receptions and cocktail hours for performing card magic close-up and surrounded.

DUES ARE NOW PAST DUE:

Dues are now past due – Our dues are only $10 per year, a real bargain. If you have not yet paid dues for this new fiscal year (April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2008), you may pay the Treasurer, Noland Montgomery, at the meeting or mail you check, payable to Larry West Assembly 23, to Noland Montgomery, 3621 Dunnington Rd., Beltsville MD 20705.

OFFICERS:

President - Larry Lippman

Vice President - Matt Hiller

Treasurer - Noland Montgomery

Secretary - Ray Eyler

Egg-Bag Reporter–Sam Brothers

Egg Bag, August 2007

2007-08-08T18:11:00.000-04:00

THE EGG-BAG-AUGUST 2007 ISSUE

Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23

Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly Meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

OUR NEXT MEETING – AUGUST 15, 2007

Theme for this meeting:

In keeping with the new approach discussed in the President’s Message in last month’s Egg Bag, there will be no official theme for this meeting. Instead, the meeting will be an opportunity for each member to show us a work in progress, or showcase a favorite routine, as he or she chooses. Our President has dubbed this “Show us what you want to show us.” Also in keeping with the new approach, performers looking for constructive feed back on their routines will be given the opportunity to ask for and receive it from other members.

Future themes:

September-“Show us what you want to show us”

October-Halloween magic

November-Holiday magic

December-“Show us what you want to show us”

January-Love Story (Valentine day magic)

February-“Show us what you want to show us”

March-“Show us what you want to show us”

April-“Show us what you want to show us”

May-“Show us what you want to show us”

MINI-LECTURES:

Each month, starting in the near future, we plan to hold a mini-lecture, given by a member and running no more than 5 to 10 minutes. The idea is to have one member a month demonstrate a move, a technique or a trick and teach the rest of us. If there is a topic you would like to see covered, or a topic you would like to volunteer to teach, please e-mail your suggestion to Larry Lipman at: lorenzomagic@cox.net.

DUES ARE NOW PAST DUE:

NEW OFFICERS:

President - Larry Lippman

Vice President - Matt Hiller

Treasurer - Noland Montgomery

Secretary - Ray Eyler

Egg-Bag Reporter–Sam Brothers

EDITOR’S NOTE:

Remember to check out our web page at www.assembly23.blogspot.com.

Mini-Lecturer Wanted

2007-08-08T18:10:00.001-04:00

Folks:

I'm looking for a volunteer to pinch-hit next Wednesday as our first
mini-lecturer of the new assembly year. Ray Eyler had volunteered but
is under the weather and I do not expect him to be at our meeting.

Remember, we're not looking for a lenghty teach-in. We're looking
for someone to teach a (public domain) trick, a move or a technique that
you think our members will be able to learn and benefit from having learned.

If you are willing to volunteer for next Wednesday night, Aug. 16,
please send me an e-mail.

Many thanks,

Larry Lipman
Prez. SAM Assembly 23

2007-07-21T10:07:00.001-04:00

Some of our members performed June 30 at the Second Annual National Press Club Picnic at Bon Air Park in Arlington. Here are some photos. (Top to bottom: Dwight Redman, Larry Lipman (a.k.a., Lorenzo the Great), and Sam Brothers)

Egg Bag, July 2007

2007-07-15T11:34:00.001-04:00

THE EGG-BAG
Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23
Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly Meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the
National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

Join us for magic, fun & fellowship. Cocktails start at 6 p.m., dinner at 6:30 and the Meeting at 8 p.m.

OUR NEXT MEETING – JULY 18, 2007
Theme for this meeting
PICNIC

Tricks you could do to entertain at a company/group picnic. Ideally, these would be tricks you could immediately repeat with little or no reset.

DUES ARE NOW PAST DUE

Dues are now past due – Our dues are only $10 per year, a real bargain. If you have not yet paid dues for this new fiscal year (April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2008), you may pay the Treasurer, Noland Montgomery, at the meeting or mail you check payable to Larry West Assembly 23 to Noland Montgomery, 3621

Dunnington Rd., Beltsville MD 20705.

OFFICER FOR 2007-2008

President - Larry Lipman
Vice President - Matt Hiller
Treasurer - Noland Montgomery
Secretary - Ray Eyler

Egg-Bag Reporter–Sam Brothers

JUNE HAPPENING

Due to the national convention schedule and summer weather, the meeting was attended by about 10 brave people. It seemed that the mail was delivered as most performed to the theme, Please Mr. Postman, with several card tricks, one rubberband trick, and a stamp trick. Note: It was Rick's last evening as he was moving out of the area.

This was our out-going President's, James Munton's, last meeting as he is relocating to Dallas, Texas. We will miss him and his magical contributions. Good Luck and good magishing James..

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Friends:
If you're like me, there are primarily three reasons for being a member of S.A.M. Assembly 23:
* the opportunity to improve your magic
* the opportunity to learn new magic
* the opportunity to share in the fellowship of other magicians.

The Assembly officers had those objectives in mind as we tried to plan activities for the coming year. Here's what we have come up with.

There will be less emphasis this year on themes for the monthly meetings. I thought the idea of basing the themes last year on old Beatles songs was brilliant. If you tried to adhere to the theme, it forced you to be creative.

But, at the same time, some members may have felt constrained by the themes or inhibited about trying to perform a so-so trick just because it met the theme. So, this year we are going to try something different.

Our overall theme for this year will be: "show us what you want to show us" either because you want to get more practice performing the trick before a live audience or because it's a work in progress and you'd like to get some input from your peers. We'll give both types of performers ample opportunity to meet those needs.

We'll have a few themes based on the calendar. For example, our October theme will be Halloween magic. That will give you a chance to dust off some tricks you may only do once a year (I know I've got a couple that fall into that category) in time to get some performing practice in before you may have to do it in an actual show. Our November theme will be Holiday magic for the same reason. Bring out those Christmas, Hanukah and Kwanza tricks you may only perform once a year. And our January theme will be Love Story – in time to get ready for Valentine's Day.

And our theme for this Wednesday night's meeting will be "Picnic Magic." What I mean by that is basically strolling magic that you could do – and redo without the need to slip away to reset your tricks – at a picnic or similar function. I'm going to expand on that a bit because I know that at least two of our members will be performing strolling magic two nights later at bookstores offering late night Harry Potter book events. So the theme is basically non-reset strolling magic

Regardless of what the theme is for the month, you DO NOT have to follow the theme. "They be more like guidelines," as the famous line from Pirates of the Caribbean goes. The overriding theme is "show us what you want."

In addition, we are hoping to have at least two lectures. The officers had some good ideas of folks to invite, but if you have ideas please send them to me at lorenzomagic@cox.net.

In addition to the two professional lectures, we'd like to try monthly "mini-lectures" by our members. The idea there is to have one member a month demonstrate a move, a technique or a trick and teach the rest of us. Ideally, you will have hand-outs, but they are not required. Obviously you won't be demonstrating proprietary, commercially sold tricks, but there is plenty of magic in the public domain that can be shown and taught. If you'd like to be a demonstrator one month, let me know. If not I may have to "volunteer" some members.

Finally, the best way to improve your magic performance is to perform. So we'll be giving you opportunities to do just that. Of course you will be expected to perform at all meetings that do not involve a lecturer. In addition, we'll have performing events at the National Press Club. Three of us, Sam Brothers, Dwight Redman and I, performed recently at the NPC annual picnic. We hope that becomes an annual performance opportunity for our members. In December, the Press Club will have its annual children's holiday party and we'll be looking for performers. In late January, the NPC will inaugurate a new president and we'll be looking for a couple of classy strolling magicians. In April, we'll have two opportunities to perform: we'll be looking for a couple more classy strollers for the Press Club's centennial celebration; and we'll have our annual Press Club close up magic show. I'd love to see some new performers at some of these venues.

Speaking of the Press Club, please remember that the Assembly is a guest of the National Press Club and act accordingly. That means dressing appropriately – no T-shirts, shorts or flip-flops to the dinner meetings – and be sure to pay your dinner and bar tabs.

This is your Assembly. You can keep it strong in three ways: coming to meetings and participating; urging new members to join; paying your dues on time. If you have suggestions for improving the Assembly, please don't hesitate to contact me or any of the officers.

See you Wednesday.

Larry Lipman
President, Assembly 23, the Larry West Assembly

Egg Bag, June 2007

2007-06-18T15:46:00.001-04:00

THE EGG-BAG
Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23
Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly Meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the
National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

Join us for magic, fun & fellowship. Cocktails start at 6 p.m., dinner at 6:30 and the Meeting at 8 p.m.

OUR NEXT MEETING – JUNE 20, 2007
Theme for this meeting
PLEASE MR. POSTMAN

REGULAR BUSINESS

Larry Lipman gave a review of the NPC close up show. Standing room only in both rooms! Phil Milstead gave info on upcoming MEAS Convention in August 23 – 25, 2007.

DUES ARE NOW DUE

Dues are now due – Our dues are only $10 per year, a real bargain. If you have not yet paid dues for this new fiscal year (April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2008), you may pay the Treasurer, Noland Montgomery, at the meeting or mail you check payable to Larry West Assembly 23 to Noland Montgomery, 3621 Dunnington Rd., Beltsville MD 20705.

MAGICIANS NEEDED

The National Press Club is holding its second annual (in recent years) family picnic on Saturday, June 30, at Bon Air Park, Arlington.

As part of the longstanding agreement between the Club and the Assembly, the Club provides us with meeting space and we provide them with magical entertainment at some of their functions. Thus, we perform an annual show in April, and provide magicians for the Club's annual holiday party in December and NPC inaugural in January.

Larry asked them if they would be interested in having some magicians for the picnic, either walk-around or a show. They indicated they'd be interested in a show and some walk-around.

Larry plans to offer a show; if anyone else wants to join him, they would be welcome. He is also looking for some magicians to join him in doing walk-around magic -- probably between 1 and 4 p.m.

The picnic is from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., but I wouldn't expect anyone to do walk-around for more than a half-hour to an hour, depending on your willingness, ability and availability.

So, if you'd like to volunteer to perform magic at the Club picnic, please let Larry know a.s.a.p. lorenzomagic@cox.net. This is a great opportunity for anyone who would like to get some performing experience under his/her belt but is not sure they can carry off an entire picnic as the sole entertainer.

Event Date: June 30, 2007
Event Name: NPC 2nd Annual Picnic
Event Type: NPC Social Event
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Details: Bon Air Park in Arlington, Va., just 8 miles or a 15 minute drive from the Press club and is located at 850 N. Lexington St. in Arlington, just off Wilson Boulevard. There will be both children and adults to perform for.

NOMINATIONS FOR OFFICER FOR 2007-2008

The nominating committee presents the following slate for consideration:

President - Larry Lippman
Vice President - Matt Hiller
Treasurer - Noland Montgomery
Secretary - Ray Eyler

Other nominations will be taken from the floor, however they must have a second to be considered. After the nominations are closed a vote will be taken at this meeting.

The Assembly is looking for someone to take notes of the meeting for inclusion in the Egg-Bag. A volunteer is needed.

WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS

Welcome to our newest member, John Hornick. Happy to have you aboard.

MONKEY BUSINESS (Social portion–performances by members):

Larry Lipman - Rabbit to Clown packet trick. He also did a Twisting Sister and a Twist the aces card trick.

Noland Montgomery – Triumph card trick. Selected card lost in deck, cards turned face up and face down mixed together. All cards end up in one direction except chosen card.

Matt Hiller – Magic 13 card trick. Card is selected and lost in DeckStack of cards, one is turned over. Counting begins with that number up to 13.This is repeated until all cards are turned over and the last count to 13 is selected card.

James Munton – Scorpion. 5 foam cups are placed on the table. A metal ball with sharp spikes is placed a cup by spectator while James is not looking. He finds the ball by slamming his hand onto each cup leaving the ball under the last cup.

Joe Tessmer – Scotch and Soda.

Sam Brothers – Twisting the aces. Did routine where he lit a match, blew it out and then he blew a puff of smoke out of his mouth.

Nicholas Miller – Poker hand card trick. Stack of 10 facedown cards. Cards chosen by spectator and Nicholas alternately. Nicholas had best hand every time.

Phil Milstead – Torn and restored stamp. Was 39 cent stamp, tore apart and put back together as 41 cent stamp.

Jim Flanigan – Did four ace production using 10-20 force.

Dwight Redman – Had spectator take their ring and put it on a bolt, screw a nut on the bolt and put a lock thru the screw to prevent removal of nut. This was covered with a silk and Dwight removed the ring from the bolt without using a key.

John Hornick – Dove pan. John brought an antique dove pan he purchased for his magic collection. He put in some instant dove powder, some evaporation activator and proceeded to produce Dove bones!

Erik Feinberg – Color changing CD's. CD's go into box one color and come out another.
He also did another Tenyo trick called the String color box.

REMEMBER TO CHECK THE WEB PAGE AT www.assembly23.blogspot.com FOR OTHER NEWS,

Woody Landers Obituary

2007-05-17T13:46:00.001-04:00

This is a draft of obituary to be published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch today of Woody Landers. He was a well-known magician to many in the D.C. VA. MD area.

"Roger "Woody" Landers passed away tragically Monday, May 14, 2007. He is survived by two brothers, Thomas M. Landers, Richard N. Landers and wife Anne Marie Landers; one sister, Mary L. Taylor and husband Robert P. Taylor; three children, Mindy L. Sawyer and husband Seldon, Wade C. Landers and wife Edwina, Tami S. Landers and husband Kevin White; three grandchildren, Sydni, Averi, Megan, and one great-grandchild, Kylie and a host of nieces and a nephew. He is pre-deceased by his mother and father, Maurice and Ursula Landers and his twin brother George Cauley Landers.
1. Woody was a master magician and for many years was a member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians. He had an enthusiastic fascination with magic for which he served for over 50 years. He was a charter member of the Society of American Magicians Williamsburg Assembly. His specialty was eye-popping sleight of hand, and Woody lectured at many magicians' societies, clubs and conventions.
Amateurs and technically-skilled alike sought him out for advice and intructions. If you sincerely loved the art of magic, you became Woody's friend. The magical fingers are now still, but the man and his wonderful talents will never be forgotten.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, May 18, 2007 at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 1400 S. Randolph St., Richmond, VA, 23220.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to one's favorite charity.

See what's free at AOL.com.

Barry's Magic Shop Move

2007-05-17T13:45:00.000-04:00

Barry's Magic Shop Newsletter

About our big move:

We are moving to 5544 Nicholson Lane, Rockville, MD 20852 and our last day at the Wheaton location will be Saturday, June 2. Our new store is above the Spa East (no elevator) and near an Exxon gas station, Jerry's Sub, Theatre Vision and across the street from the old Eatzis'. We are practically at the intersection of Rockville Pike and Nicholson Lane. We have to do construction and hope to reopen sometime in the middle of July.

After we move our merchandise, we will have a fire sale in the old shop on a Saturday or a Sunday in June and try to sell off everything we do not bring to the new store at practically give-away prices. We will notify everyone when we are ready. This is a huge and back-breaking move (whew!). We've never moved before so we cannot tell you the exact date for anything yet. Plus, there are always delays during construction.

Our new store is 4,000 square feet and just beautiful. We are having a small theater seating 40 people. In September we are planning on hosting Magic Idol, similar to American Idol. The grand prize will be a $250.00 gift certificate from Barry's Magic Shop, a trophy and your photo will be displayed at the magic shop. The winner is selected by audience votes.

Think about being a contestant. You can perform close up or stage magic. We're probably going to have two series; one for children and one for adults and it will probably be held on Saturday evenings. The audience ticket price will be $10 and you will be able to buy seat tickets on line.

In addition to Magic Idol, we will hold monthly lectures and magic classes. We'll notify you with more details when we have them all figured out. We are totally excited about our new location when we open and we hope you visit us.

Stop by our present location (Georgia Avenue, Wheaton, MD) to see the magic shop of 33 years for the last and final time.

We do want to thank everyone who wrote letters in our behalf. If it wasn't for all of your support, we would not be here today.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Susie, Frankie the Wonder Dog and Barry

Egg-Bag May 2007

2007-05-17T13:44:00.000-04:00

THE EGG-BAG
Monthly Newsletter of the Larry West Assembly No. 23
Society of American Magicians

The Larry West Assembly Meets the 3rd Wednesday every month at the
National Press Club, at 14th and F Streets, N.W. in Washington, D.C.

Join us for magic, fun & fellowship. Cocktails start at 6 p.m., dinner at 6:30 and the Meeting at 8 p.m.

OUR NEXT MEETING – MAY 16, 2007
Theme for this meeting – TWIST & SHOUT

NEXT MONTH'S THEME – Please Mr. Postman.

The last two meetings have come and gone, first an excellent lecture followed by a very successful close-up show.

Many thanks to our performers, emcee's and those who attended.

March SAM 23 EGG-BAG Newsletter

2007-03-16T11:18:00.000-04:00

THE EGG BAG
THE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER OF
THE LARRY WEST ASSEMBLY NO. 23
SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS

THE LARRY WEST ASSEMBLY NO. 23, S.A.M. MEETS ON THE 3RD WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH AT THE NATIONAL PRESS CLUB AT 14TH & F STREETS, IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

Join us for fun, magic and fellowship. Cocktails start at 6:00 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m.,
and meeting at 7:30 p.m.

NEXT MEETING -- MARCH 21, 2007

LECTURE BY
MICHAEL KAMINSKAS.

Michael Kaminskas is the author of numerous books on magic. Including, "Next Victim, Please..." (Hades Publications) and "Miracle Material" (L&L publishing), He has created many marketed effects and props for magicians, including the MK Professional Cups. His performances consist of close-up and stand-up magic for the real world. His company CorporateMagic-FX is hired hundreds of times yearly to bring Michael's special brand of magic to their clients and employees.

FREE TO PAID MEMBERS OF ASSEMBLY 23 -- $10.00 TO ALL OTHERS. REMEMBER OUR DUES ARE ONLY $10. PER YEAR.

Next month – N.P.C Close-up Show

Regular Business

Short and sweet, the welfare of Jim F Flanigan was reported. Members can contact him by E-Mail at jflanigan@aol.com or by mail at 821 6th St. SW, Washington, DC 20024. His home number is 202-554-3775.

Monkey Business:

The theme for the meeting was "All You Need is Love" Starting off the evenings presentations was Larry Lipman performing "Lover's Card" Spectator selects card, signs face and returns to deck. 2nd Spectator selects and signs back of card, it is lost in the deck. 1st spectators card is found and it is also the 2nd spectators card signed on the back.

Next was Matt Hiller with "Thanks James." Matt removed a folded $1.00 bill from his wallet. He unfolded the dollar bill and refolded it. It changed to a $5.00 bill. Refolded and it changed to a $10.00 and finally changed to a $20.00 bill.

Noland Montgomery regaled "Miscellaneous Cards" 4 ace spread pulled from behind knee. Ace of clubs put into hat,it reappears in the ace spread. Ace put into pocket, exchanges place with ace held in hand. Ace continue to change places.

Lee Eyler presented "Loving Couples. " Queen of Hearts ruled country while King of Hearts stayed in bed all day. Queen sent Jack of Hearts to find King in middle of deck. He returns to top without King. Queen goes to find King and both appear together in middle of deck.

Lars Klores performed "Anniversary Waltz." Spectator selects card and signs face. Card is lost in deck. Second spectator selects and signs face of card and card is lost in the deck. First card is located and turned over to reveal the face of the second signed card. The cards are fused together as one card.

The Prez., James Munton showed us "One for the Ladies." Spectator chooses card. Returned and lost in the deck. Card is found my James and it has a picture of a heart on the back.

Max Eyler presented his version of "Madison Ave." A chosen card turns out to have a different colored back to the rest of the deck. But there is more this card turns out to have a message on its face and was done with a Kiss.

Hugh Turley with "Coca Cola" Deck of cards with Coca Cola picture on back had a spectator selects card. It is found to be the only card in the deck with a Pepsi Cola on the back.

Ray Eyler - "Kismet" Business Card with a prediction put on table. Spectator selects card, its returned and lost in the deck. The card is named and it is the only face down card in the deck–this could have been a coincidence, however, the prediction on the business card matches–it must have been Kismet.

Steven Hirsch back from a long absence presented "King & Queen." King of Hearts and Queen of Hearts face to face in middle of deck. They have a fight and king ends up at top of deck and Queen ends up on bottom of deck. They made up and reappeared together in the middle of the deck.

Nicholas Miller showed us his presentation of "Good vs. Evil" Nicholas showed us a pocket knife that could distinguish between good and evil. If the knife was exposed to the dark side, it turned black. If it was exposed to good things, it change to white. He demonstrated the knife changing colors while describing good and evil.

Dwight Redman using jumbo cards, showed us his version of the Gemini Twins. A love story about a set of twins married to a second set of twins. He also used the jumbo cards to show us the "Devil's Elevator".

We then adjourned to the reliable source for fellowship and magic.

FUTURE THEMES (Subject to change)

April – National Press Club Annual Close-up Show
May:-- Twist and Shout
June:-- Please Mr. Postman

2007-02-12T16:39:00.000-05:00

OUR NEXT MEETING – FEBRUARY 21, 2007

This month's theme – All You Need is Love

Next month – Mike Kaminskas Lecture.

BUSINESS & GOOD OF THE ORDER

The business portion of the meeting was kept as short as possible. It was reported that Jim Flanigan was in ill health. Members can contact him by E-Mail at jflanigan@aol.com or by mail at 821 6th St. SW, Washington, DC 20024. His home number is 202-554-3775.

Our guests and future members were introduced: K. Nicholas Miller and John Hornick. Welcome guys.

Lars Klores was officially welcomed as member of the Assembly and SAM National

It was announced that we will have a lecturer Mike Kaminskas for our March Meeting (March 21st) and we will have our annual NPC Close-up Show on April 18th. Get the word out.

The Business meeting was adjourned

MONKEY BUSINESS

Moving on to our social portion of the meeting, the following compeers entertained us with their contributions to the evenings theme -- Here, There and Everywhere. (The following is an abbreviated report of the performances.)

Our President, James Munton, performed his rendition of the 3-shell game using Karl Norman's set of brass cups. Nicely done James.

Our President of Vice, Hugh Turley, directed us using the "crazy arrow" and then related a story about his acquaintance "Farky Hollis" and a correct prediction.

Larry Lipman, caused 4 Kings and 4 Queens to change with 4 Jacks and back again as he performed "Royal Robbers."

Ray Eyler, Performed both phases of Larry West's "4 of a Kind". Trying to find a selected card seemingly missed on 4 tries, however, in the end the selected card was found among the 3 cards of the same value.

Noland Montgomery, apparently tore his newspaper before our eyes only to show that it was really whole in his presentation of "No Tear."

Lee Eyler, regaled us with a presentation of the "Amazing Jumping Arrow."

Nicholas Miller, presented "No Where. . .Then Right There" a Dunbury Delusion.

Max Eyler, caused circles to become squares in his performance of KeeWest's "Squared Circles."

Matt Hiller, Performed "Colorfusion" a torn & restored card effect where the partially restored card's matching torn corner was of a different color.

Lars Klores, presented "Everywhere & Nowhere on a Tricycle."

Dwight Redman, caused the penetration of three quarters.

The meeting was adjourned to the Reliable Source for further individual chatter and magic.

EGG-BAG January

2007-01-28T23:51:00.000-05:00

OUR NEXT MEETING -- JANUARY 17, 2007

The Theme: Here, There and Everywhere
Next month--All You Need is Love

MONKEY BUSINESS

The Social Portion of the Meeting brought forward the performance by Joe Tessmer of the " Missing Think"- The spectator thought of a card. Joe gave her 10 plastic sheets with cards printed on them. The spectator selected the sheet that had her cards printed on it. Joe picked the thought of card.

Noland Montgomery preformed "Professor's Nightmare"- Relating it to the job as a spaghetti cutter and the problems he had trying to cut the spaghetti into even pieces.

Larry Lipman was next with "Down Under" The cards were shown to be in a "Helter Skelter" condition. Spectator selected a number and Larry began to count the cards in a down under fashion. He put one card down and the next card went on the bottom of the packet. He continued in this fashion and all of the cards were put into numerical order.

Steve Javes showed us "Surprise Card" where the spectator mentally selects a card from packet; Steve correctly named after he read spectators mind.

Erik Feinberg regaled us with the "Mystery China Box"- The box had two clear cylinders. Marbles of different colors were dropped into cylinders at spectators choice. All marbles ended up in same cylinder. He followed this with "Credit Slasher"- A Credit card put into holder. Tiny sword was pushed through credit card. Card was removed undamaged.

Matt Hiller was nest with "Indy 5 to 1" Matt explained how he went to McDonald's and was given the incorrect change. He was given five 1's and he changed them to five 5's. He offered to teach a spectator to change his bills. Spectator was given a one and folded it into eighths. Matt folded a 5. He placed both into his fist. He appeared to give the spectator the 5, but he actually had the 1 dollar bill.

Lars Klores performed "Nailed"- The spectator selected and signed card. Lars selected a card, and gave the spectator his choice of which card to hold. He then took the remaining card (his) and put it into an envelope that was sealed with tape and stapled to a board. The envelope was cut open and the card inside was the spectator's card that switched places with Lars' card.

Jim Flanigan showed us his version of the "Gemini Twins" – Jim's twins involved Santa and Mrs. Claus. They went to Paris where they ran into his twin brother and her twin sister. This Xmas version had a surprise ending when a magician appeared.

Dwight Redman, the ever vigilant note taker couldn't remember what he did, that is other than taking notes for the meeting and not recording my effect.

FUTURE THEMES (Subject to change)

February:-- All You Need is Love
March:-- Across the Universe
April:-- Taxman
May:-- Twist and Shout
June:-- Please Mr. Postman

Last-minute addition:

COMPEERS,
It has been brought to our attention that although the office of the Vice President is considered the invisible office, our V-P, Hugh Turley, was present at our last meeting and yes he performed. We are told that Hugh Turley did a rather clever bit with a deck of marked backs with catchy words on them. Sorry that we can not go into more detail, but our spies did not get the full story. Sorry for the omission