President's Words
Members,
How I spent my summer vacation
It's back to school time and that means it's time to reflect on the summer. Here are my top 5 magical thoughts and highlights from the summer
Being the arms of a magic act is harder than it looks (ask someone at Joel's BBQ) The words "Magic Camp" seem less dorky after years of work in an office.
It doesn't matter how much complaining and explaining I do, my family still wants me on America's Got Talent.
The words "Dove Act" can mean anything from invisible harnesses to dove pans.
I was completely fooled by a glimpse.
Now some new business. The next few days and the meeting will be important. It's about that time where we think about officers for the following year. Since attendance has generally been low we'll be doing things a little differently, please read carefully. The basic idea is that we'll be keeping the same officers in the same positions (with one exception) UNLESS anyone would like to propose a change. So..
There is currently an opening for Vice President, please email us nominations for VP
If you would like to propose a change of officers, please email us with a nomination for any office you'd like changed.
Any nominations that are submitted for an office will be voted on at the September meeting.
Not replying to this email will be interpreted as a vote for keeping the current officers (although we'd still need a VP)
The current officers are:
President - Derrin Berger
Vice President - OPEN
Secretary - Frank Monaco
Treasurer - Joel Zaritsky
Scribe - Craig Kunaschk
Please respond, it's an important part of the club and your input is valuable.
Now for the fun stuff. It's no secret that magician's love gadgets. Not a meeting has gone by where a small crowd hasn't gathered around some new phone app, a computer screen, or some sort of remote control for something. So, this month it's magic gadget show and tell night! Bring in your gadgets for controlling music, propping up tables, or randomly selecting a volunteer and tying them to chair with a pair of red spandex pants. Whether you have a cool toy for holding open your cases or an electronic thumb tip that lights up, bring it! (well, maybe not the thumb tip)
Derrin
------------------------------------------------------------------
Meeting Information
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday September 14, 2010
Event: Magic Gadget Show and Tell
Place: Milanese Restaurant
115 Main St
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
Ok, so you know I have to be really excited knowing that Steve Johnson and I can show off all our magic gadgets and gizmos. I think you will be amazed at some of the cool stuff that is out there for you to use to enhance your show.
Also, please remember, it doesn't have to be electronic in nature to be considered a gadget or gizmo. Maybe it's a special table, or a certain short cut or tip you would like to share with the group that can help with all our shows. If everyone brings a little something, a good idea, a helpful hint, a useful website etc, this should be a really fun night!
So remember, the meeting will be only as good as the overall participation. If you show up PLEASE have something to share with the group....doesn't matter how big or small, we welcome it all. Hope to see you there!!
MAGIC NEWS
Magic News......Link Below
http://www.magictimes.com
Frank Monaco
Secretary, Al Baker Assembly #35
Contact: sam35editor@gmail.com
Friday, September 10, 2010
Saturday, July 10, 2010
July 2010
President's Words
Members ( and non members that are either reading over a member's shoulder or that hacked their account),
I'm writing this from the lovely confines of the great Tannen's Magic Camp, where festivities officially got under way when I was woken up by the blaring sounds of a fire alarm that was set off by someone taking a shower. Should be an interesting week.
We'll be skipping the July meeting this summer and picking back up again in August with our now annual BBQ. I hope some of you had the chance to swing down to Atlanta for the S.A.M. convention or maybe even the (ahem) I.B.M. convention. I'd love to hear stories if you did make it to either one. And hopefully Frank and I will return from camp with stories as well, not just the usual bags under our eyes. Educating magic's youth takes a lot out of you, especially when many of them know more sleights than you knew were even invented. Curse you internet!
In other news I've done some traveling since our last meeting and got to see 2 shows. This past weekend I saw Greg Frewin up in Canada and in June I was in Austin, Texas and saw Ester's Follies, which has one of the best illusionists I've ever seen. Catch it if you can.
And come to the BBQ!!!!!!
That's all for now, time to correct double lifts and brainstorm on acts.
-Derrin
Meeting Information:
There will be no meeting in July.......
NEXT MEETING: Sunday August 8, 2010
Event: BBQ
Place: Joel Zaritsky's House
21 Stonehedge Dr
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603-6509
(845) 485-2969
Time: 2:00 PM
It is time for our annual Assembly #35 BBQ. Once again, our generous Treasurer has "donated" his house for our festivities.....Thank you Joel!!! The BBQ will start at 2:00 PM and continue till????
As before, you can bring salads, side dishes, dessert items (we'll provide the hot dogs, hamburgers, wings, etc)
Also, please bring a little something to perform for the group if you like. It's always a fun time with good food, friends and family. Hope to see your there..........
Members ( and non members that are either reading over a member's shoulder or that hacked their account),
I'm writing this from the lovely confines of the great Tannen's Magic Camp, where festivities officially got under way when I was woken up by the blaring sounds of a fire alarm that was set off by someone taking a shower. Should be an interesting week.
We'll be skipping the July meeting this summer and picking back up again in August with our now annual BBQ. I hope some of you had the chance to swing down to Atlanta for the S.A.M. convention or maybe even the (ahem) I.B.M. convention. I'd love to hear stories if you did make it to either one. And hopefully Frank and I will return from camp with stories as well, not just the usual bags under our eyes. Educating magic's youth takes a lot out of you, especially when many of them know more sleights than you knew were even invented. Curse you internet!
In other news I've done some traveling since our last meeting and got to see 2 shows. This past weekend I saw Greg Frewin up in Canada and in June I was in Austin, Texas and saw Ester's Follies, which has one of the best illusionists I've ever seen. Catch it if you can.
And come to the BBQ!!!!!!
That's all for now, time to correct double lifts and brainstorm on acts.
-Derrin
Meeting Information:
There will be no meeting in July.......
NEXT MEETING: Sunday August 8, 2010
Event: BBQ
Place: Joel Zaritsky's House
21 Stonehedge Dr
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603-6509
(845) 485-2969
Time: 2:00 PM
It is time for our annual Assembly #35 BBQ. Once again, our generous Treasurer has "donated" his house for our festivities.....Thank you Joel!!! The BBQ will start at 2:00 PM and continue till????
As before, you can bring salads, side dishes, dessert items (we'll provide the hot dogs, hamburgers, wings, etc)
Also, please bring a little something to perform for the group if you like. It's always a fun time with good food, friends and family. Hope to see your there..........
Saturday, June 5, 2010
June 2010
President's Words
Members,
I swear I've written about this before
I saw my favorite band this past weekend. It actually marks the 19th time I've seen them since 1998 ('03 was a good summer). As usual, the place was sold out and as soon as they take the first step on stage 20,000 people start screaming. Except for me, I just did a polite golf clap. The band's known to have a very loyal following, people that follow them for every summer tour, people that tape every show, and people like me that are happy to drive a few hours in any direction and try to see as many concerts as I reasonably can. They're also known to have very good live shows, and many people who don't like their CD's become fans after seeing their first concert. So, where's the magic talk... here it is...
Magicians don't have a lot of die-hard fans. Magicians don't sell out football stadiums and arenas. And it's really tough for a magician to turn a non-fan into a fan. So, why? There's a few differences, art form aside. For one, the band plays a different setlist every night. Each show is fresh for the audience, and fresh for the band. Second, the band doesn't just mimmick the CD, many of the songs have room for jams, which are improvised and also different each night. Third, the feeling is more of a "we're all at the same party", not a "I can play this song and you can't". Finally, and most importantly, the band is having a good time and it shows.
So this month's questions: Am I coming across as, "I know a secret and you don't" or is my audience having fun with me? Am I keeping things fresh enough for myself to still have a good time? Am I helping grab a few more magic fans? And finally, can I get a ticket to another show on this summer's tour?
This month we're going old-school. Now that I've recovered from Harvey fooling me with a trick he'd already taught me, we'll have a coin workshop. Bring your half dollars and okito boxes, bring your Bobo books and folding coins, and bring your finger palms and tricks to share. Let's all plan to have something to perform, teach, and talk about. See you then!
Derrin
Meeting Information
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday June 8, 2010
Event: Coin Magic Workshop
Place: Milanese Restaurant
115 Main St
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
As our Fearless Leader has stated above.....this month we're going old school. School is the right word too, because we would like each one to bring a little something with them this month to show the group and possibly teach. The topic is Coin Magic, and here is the good part. If you are working on something bring it in, if you wanted to show us something no matter how short or quick, bring it in.....if you need help with a certain coin move or routine, bring it in.....Bottom Line is BRING IT IN.....we would love to see it. You don't have to teach the group anything.....but of course if you can we always LOVE that.
We have tried this type of meeting before and it is always met with a really positive response. It's like an informal Jam session. Now before you say, "I don't do coins" We don't care....bring in something you think is interesting or you always wanted to learn involving coin magic and I am sure one or more of the highly intelligent, good looking members will be able to help!
Let's try to make this another really good "Jam Session" as we have had in the past and remember it's all up to you.....BRING IT IN.
(This ad brought to you by the National Council on Coin Magic Workshops of America)
MAGIC NEWS
Magic News......Link Below
http://www.magictimes.com/
--
Frank Monaco
Secretary, Al Baker Assembly #35
Contact: sam35editor@gmail.com
Members,
I swear I've written about this before
I saw my favorite band this past weekend. It actually marks the 19th time I've seen them since 1998 ('03 was a good summer). As usual, the place was sold out and as soon as they take the first step on stage 20,000 people start screaming. Except for me, I just did a polite golf clap. The band's known to have a very loyal following, people that follow them for every summer tour, people that tape every show, and people like me that are happy to drive a few hours in any direction and try to see as many concerts as I reasonably can. They're also known to have very good live shows, and many people who don't like their CD's become fans after seeing their first concert. So, where's the magic talk... here it is...
Magicians don't have a lot of die-hard fans. Magicians don't sell out football stadiums and arenas. And it's really tough for a magician to turn a non-fan into a fan. So, why? There's a few differences, art form aside. For one, the band plays a different setlist every night. Each show is fresh for the audience, and fresh for the band. Second, the band doesn't just mimmick the CD, many of the songs have room for jams, which are improvised and also different each night. Third, the feeling is more of a "we're all at the same party", not a "I can play this song and you can't". Finally, and most importantly, the band is having a good time and it shows.
So this month's questions: Am I coming across as, "I know a secret and you don't" or is my audience having fun with me? Am I keeping things fresh enough for myself to still have a good time? Am I helping grab a few more magic fans? And finally, can I get a ticket to another show on this summer's tour?
This month we're going old-school. Now that I've recovered from Harvey fooling me with a trick he'd already taught me, we'll have a coin workshop. Bring your half dollars and okito boxes, bring your Bobo books and folding coins, and bring your finger palms and tricks to share. Let's all plan to have something to perform, teach, and talk about. See you then!
Derrin
Meeting Information
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday June 8, 2010
Event: Coin Magic Workshop
Place: Milanese Restaurant
115 Main St
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
As our Fearless Leader has stated above.....this month we're going old school. School is the right word too, because we would like each one to bring a little something with them this month to show the group and possibly teach. The topic is Coin Magic, and here is the good part. If you are working on something bring it in, if you wanted to show us something no matter how short or quick, bring it in.....if you need help with a certain coin move or routine, bring it in.....Bottom Line is BRING IT IN.....we would love to see it. You don't have to teach the group anything.....but of course if you can we always LOVE that.
We have tried this type of meeting before and it is always met with a really positive response. It's like an informal Jam session. Now before you say, "I don't do coins" We don't care....bring in something you think is interesting or you always wanted to learn involving coin magic and I am sure one or more of the highly intelligent, good looking members will be able to help!
Let's try to make this another really good "Jam Session" as we have had in the past and remember it's all up to you.....BRING IT IN.
(This ad brought to you by the National Council on Coin Magic Workshops of America)
MAGIC NEWS
Magic News......Link Below
http://www.magictimes.com/
--
Frank Monaco
Secretary, Al Baker Assembly #35
Contact: sam35editor@gmail.com
Thursday, May 6, 2010
May 2010
President's Words
Members,
This past weekend I saw "How to train your dragon", a Dreamworks animated movie. Without spoiling too much of the story for those who are interested, it's essentially about a small boy that learns that dragons aren't all that bad (go figure). As I usually do after a movie, I went on IMDB to learn a few bits about it, and clicked on the "goofs" section. The goofs section is usually where people put in remarks about accidentally seeing the cameraman's reflection in a mirror, or how there's some inconsistency because the movie's set in 1984 yet there's a computer screen showing Windows XP. This was one of the entries for "How to train your Dragon":
Factual errors: The wings of some dragons are much too small for them to be able to fly at all. Even considering the fictional elements, it stands to reason that if the Night Fury needs a valid aerodynamic configuration to fly, so should all the other dragons.
In case you missed it the first time, this is a Dreamworks animated movie. The person who wrote that just sat through a 2-hour cartoon about fire-breathing creatures that fly, some of which had 2 heads. Yet somehow, he felt compelled to pick up the creators on the point that the whole thing doesn't work in terms raw physics. I can only imagine how good of a time this family had watching Shrek.
What does this have to do with my monthly attempt pseudo-intellectual magic topics? I think it has a lot to do with focus. There's no right or wrong thing to focus on, and it varies from person to person and from situation to situation. But maybe it's time to think about what you've been focusing on. Are you stuck on your whole act because you can't get past a particular sleight? Maybe it's time to look at gimmicked cards. Are you stuck on which prop to buy next because there are so many ads in all of the magazines? Maybe it's time to look for some older books instead. Are you stuck as an audience member because whenever you see a magician all you can see are his double lifts? Maybe it's time to stop the competition in your head and enjoy his presentation. Sometimes slightly changing your focus can help. Sometimes it can make things more fun. More importantly, sometimes it brings back the fun that was once lost. Forget about the fact that the dragon's wings are too small, it's just a nice night out with the family.
I want to thank everyone who participated in the small survey we sent out. If you still haven't done it, there's time, so please do. The information we've gathered so far has been helpful, and it's nice to know where members are coming from and where they'd like to go. We can talk a little more about it at the meeting.
This month we're lucky to have a lecture from one of our own: Harvey Berg! Harvey's prepared an all new lecture for us and will be sure to be filled with fooler after fooler. I could be happy at a meeting just watching Harvey perform some of his creations without explaining them. There's nothing like getting fried, and fried badly. Fortunately, or unfortunately (up to you), Harvey is generous enough to share these effects with us. So don't miss it!
Derrin
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meeting Information
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday May 11, 2010
Event: Harvey Berg Lecture
Place: Milanese Restaurant
115 Main St
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
He's Baaaaack and trust us you won't want to miss it. This month one of our very own Harvey Berg ....will once again mess with your minds. If you have never seen Harvey perform before, then you are in for an amazing evening and if you have seen Harvey perform before, then you are in for an amazing evening. Let's face it, you can't lose!!
A member of the both local S.A.M. Clubs #35 and #147, as well as the Parent Assembly #1 in New York City. He has performed at restaurants and corporate parties in the tri-state area. Harvey has also created several incredible effects to market to professional magicians. He has also lectured to fellow magicians around the world.
Come see him do his thing this coming Tuesday......Don't miss it!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MAGIC NEWS
Magic News......Link Below
http://www.magictimes.com
Frank Monaco
Secretary, Al Baker Assembly #35
Contact: sam35editor@gmail.com
Members,
This past weekend I saw "How to train your dragon", a Dreamworks animated movie. Without spoiling too much of the story for those who are interested, it's essentially about a small boy that learns that dragons aren't all that bad (go figure). As I usually do after a movie, I went on IMDB to learn a few bits about it, and clicked on the "goofs" section. The goofs section is usually where people put in remarks about accidentally seeing the cameraman's reflection in a mirror, or how there's some inconsistency because the movie's set in 1984 yet there's a computer screen showing Windows XP. This was one of the entries for "How to train your Dragon":
Factual errors: The wings of some dragons are much too small for them to be able to fly at all. Even considering the fictional elements, it stands to reason that if the Night Fury needs a valid aerodynamic configuration to fly, so should all the other dragons.
In case you missed it the first time, this is a Dreamworks animated movie. The person who wrote that just sat through a 2-hour cartoon about fire-breathing creatures that fly, some of which had 2 heads. Yet somehow, he felt compelled to pick up the creators on the point that the whole thing doesn't work in terms raw physics. I can only imagine how good of a time this family had watching Shrek.
What does this have to do with my monthly attempt pseudo-intellectual magic topics? I think it has a lot to do with focus. There's no right or wrong thing to focus on, and it varies from person to person and from situation to situation. But maybe it's time to think about what you've been focusing on. Are you stuck on your whole act because you can't get past a particular sleight? Maybe it's time to look at gimmicked cards. Are you stuck on which prop to buy next because there are so many ads in all of the magazines? Maybe it's time to look for some older books instead. Are you stuck as an audience member because whenever you see a magician all you can see are his double lifts? Maybe it's time to stop the competition in your head and enjoy his presentation. Sometimes slightly changing your focus can help. Sometimes it can make things more fun. More importantly, sometimes it brings back the fun that was once lost. Forget about the fact that the dragon's wings are too small, it's just a nice night out with the family.
I want to thank everyone who participated in the small survey we sent out. If you still haven't done it, there's time, so please do. The information we've gathered so far has been helpful, and it's nice to know where members are coming from and where they'd like to go. We can talk a little more about it at the meeting.
This month we're lucky to have a lecture from one of our own: Harvey Berg! Harvey's prepared an all new lecture for us and will be sure to be filled with fooler after fooler. I could be happy at a meeting just watching Harvey perform some of his creations without explaining them. There's nothing like getting fried, and fried badly. Fortunately, or unfortunately (up to you), Harvey is generous enough to share these effects with us. So don't miss it!
Derrin
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meeting Information
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday May 11, 2010
Event: Harvey Berg Lecture
Place: Milanese Restaurant
115 Main St
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
He's Baaaaack and trust us you won't want to miss it. This month one of our very own Harvey Berg ....will once again mess with your minds. If you have never seen Harvey perform before, then you are in for an amazing evening and if you have seen Harvey perform before, then you are in for an amazing evening. Let's face it, you can't lose!!
A member of the both local S.A.M. Clubs #35 and #147, as well as the Parent Assembly #1 in New York City. He has performed at restaurants and corporate parties in the tri-state area. Harvey has also created several incredible effects to market to professional magicians. He has also lectured to fellow magicians around the world.
Come see him do his thing this coming Tuesday......Don't miss it!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MAGIC NEWS
Magic News......Link Below
http://www.magictimes.com
Frank Monaco
Secretary, Al Baker Assembly #35
Contact: sam35editor@gmail.com
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
April 2010
President's Words
Greetings!
Ship Shape Entertainment
This past week I was on a cruise and caught several of the evening shows (along with a few pounds). We were hoping there'd be a magician on board, but unfortunately I was the only one and despite several attempts to get on the evening schedule, all of the staff agreed that my attempts at the Guy Hollingworth Float Pass weren't quite "show ready". So, I resigned myself to a lounge with a deck of cards, most of which fell to the floor in the process of learning this new move.
There was, however, a great juggling team and once again I was struck in the face with another example of why what you do is far less important than how you do it. Technically, they weren't the best jugglers and I'd seen many of the tricks before. In fact, once they started I leaned over and said, "this better get good real soon" half hoping for another excuse to go eat. What I didn't realize was how much better they were going to get. To say they had the audience eating out of the palm of their hands would be a drastic understatement. Throughout the course of the show we saw drops, mistakes, ad libbed lines to cover for one thing or another, and actual frustration between the two performers as one would drop while the other one wouldn't. I later learned that most of this was carefully planned, but I'll tell you, it certainly didn't look like it. The best part was that the rest of the audience just ate it up and I haven't seen 1000 people so happy to see 2 jugglers try every trick, whether they succeeded at it or not. Bottom line, they won on personality. They entertained first, and everything else came after. Man... some make it look so easy.
This month we have a nice change of pace, a lecture on stage magic! What? yes.... a lecture that will address stage magic. "GO ON!" you say. Ok, I will. This month we have Peter Pitchford joining us for a lecture on manipulation and topit work. Peter won the 2009 SAM stage competition with his manipulation act, which is a reminiscent tribute to Cardini, and has developed some new work on topit techniques. As part of his lecture, he will be going over some of his innovations in the realm of all things magically manipulatable (did I make that word up?) and also giving us another special opportunity. Peter can do topit installations at the lecture. For anyone interested in topit work or in having a topit installed, be sure to bring your jacket and coats and Peter will have it installed at the lecture.
See you there!
Derrin
Meeting Information
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday April 13, 2010
Event: Peter Pitchford Lecture
Place: Milanese Restaurant
115 Main St
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
Taken From Peter's My Space Page
Peter is a strange amalgamation of superb skill, expert dexterity, amazing agility, suave suppleness, and maladroit clumsiness. Enter Peter Pitchford, the debonair dunce, the sophisticated klutz. His supreme manipulative abilities will amaze audiences while his inescapable calamity adds emotional depth that surpasses crude humor, overused jokes, and bland presentation. The combination of skill and misfortune allows the audience to share moments of laughter, of grief, of inspiration, and of triumph. Peter has been working as a full time professional for over four years. He has been studying the art for over twelve years.
Awards he has won
2009 1st place Society of American Magicians
Hofzinser Award
Silver Medal of Excellence
2009 2nd place International Brotherhood of Magicians
2007 Magician's Alliance of Eastern States Clint Riedel Best Act of Competition (1st Place Overall)
IBM Ring 165 (Collingswood) 2007 1st Place Stage Magic
SAM Assembly 4 2007 1st Place Close Up Magic
SAM Assembly 4 2007 1st Place Stage Magic
SAM Assembly 4 2006 2nd Place Children’s Magic
SAM Assembly 4 2006 2nd Place Close Up Magic
SAM Assembly 4 1st Place Stage Magic
2006 Magicians Alliance of Eastern States 1st Place Manipulation
2006 Magicians Alliance of Eastern States 1st Place Comedy Magic
IBM Ring 6 2006 2nd Place Close Up Magic
IBM Ring 6 2006 1st Place Stage Magic
IBM Ring 6 (Philadelphia) 2005 1st Place Close Up Magic
IBM Ring 6 (Philadelphia) 2005 1st Place Stage Magic
2008 Competed at the International Championships of Magic (IBM/SAM combined convention)
2008 1st place stage International Battle of Magicians
2008 2nd place stage Magifest
MAGIC NEWS
Magic News......Link Below
http://www.magictimes.com/
Frank Monaco
Secretary, Al Baker Assembly #35
Contact: sam35editor@gmail.com
Greetings!
Ship Shape Entertainment
This past week I was on a cruise and caught several of the evening shows (along with a few pounds). We were hoping there'd be a magician on board, but unfortunately I was the only one and despite several attempts to get on the evening schedule, all of the staff agreed that my attempts at the Guy Hollingworth Float Pass weren't quite "show ready". So, I resigned myself to a lounge with a deck of cards, most of which fell to the floor in the process of learning this new move.
There was, however, a great juggling team and once again I was struck in the face with another example of why what you do is far less important than how you do it. Technically, they weren't the best jugglers and I'd seen many of the tricks before. In fact, once they started I leaned over and said, "this better get good real soon" half hoping for another excuse to go eat. What I didn't realize was how much better they were going to get. To say they had the audience eating out of the palm of their hands would be a drastic understatement. Throughout the course of the show we saw drops, mistakes, ad libbed lines to cover for one thing or another, and actual frustration between the two performers as one would drop while the other one wouldn't. I later learned that most of this was carefully planned, but I'll tell you, it certainly didn't look like it. The best part was that the rest of the audience just ate it up and I haven't seen 1000 people so happy to see 2 jugglers try every trick, whether they succeeded at it or not. Bottom line, they won on personality. They entertained first, and everything else came after. Man... some make it look so easy.
This month we have a nice change of pace, a lecture on stage magic! What? yes.... a lecture that will address stage magic. "GO ON!" you say. Ok, I will. This month we have Peter Pitchford joining us for a lecture on manipulation and topit work. Peter won the 2009 SAM stage competition with his manipulation act, which is a reminiscent tribute to Cardini, and has developed some new work on topit techniques. As part of his lecture, he will be going over some of his innovations in the realm of all things magically manipulatable (did I make that word up?) and also giving us another special opportunity. Peter can do topit installations at the lecture. For anyone interested in topit work or in having a topit installed, be sure to bring your jacket and coats and Peter will have it installed at the lecture.
See you there!
Derrin
Meeting Information
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday April 13, 2010
Event: Peter Pitchford Lecture
Place: Milanese Restaurant
115 Main St
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
Taken From Peter's My Space Page
Peter is a strange amalgamation of superb skill, expert dexterity, amazing agility, suave suppleness, and maladroit clumsiness. Enter Peter Pitchford, the debonair dunce, the sophisticated klutz. His supreme manipulative abilities will amaze audiences while his inescapable calamity adds emotional depth that surpasses crude humor, overused jokes, and bland presentation. The combination of skill and misfortune allows the audience to share moments of laughter, of grief, of inspiration, and of triumph. Peter has been working as a full time professional for over four years. He has been studying the art for over twelve years.
Awards he has won
2009 1st place Society of American Magicians
Hofzinser Award
Silver Medal of Excellence
2009 2nd place International Brotherhood of Magicians
2007 Magician's Alliance of Eastern States Clint Riedel Best Act of Competition (1st Place Overall)
IBM Ring 165 (Collingswood) 2007 1st Place Stage Magic
SAM Assembly 4 2007 1st Place Close Up Magic
SAM Assembly 4 2007 1st Place Stage Magic
SAM Assembly 4 2006 2nd Place Children’s Magic
SAM Assembly 4 2006 2nd Place Close Up Magic
SAM Assembly 4 1st Place Stage Magic
2006 Magicians Alliance of Eastern States 1st Place Manipulation
2006 Magicians Alliance of Eastern States 1st Place Comedy Magic
IBM Ring 6 2006 2nd Place Close Up Magic
IBM Ring 6 2006 1st Place Stage Magic
IBM Ring 6 (Philadelphia) 2005 1st Place Close Up Magic
IBM Ring 6 (Philadelphia) 2005 1st Place Stage Magic
2008 Competed at the International Championships of Magic (IBM/SAM combined convention)
2008 1st place stage International Battle of Magicians
2008 2nd place stage Magifest
MAGIC NEWS
Magic News......Link Below
http://www.magictimes.com/
Frank Monaco
Secretary, Al Baker Assembly #35
Contact: sam35editor@gmail.com
Saturday, March 6, 2010
March 2010
President's Words
Members,
I'll make an attempt to keep my monthly ranting short and sweet.
First a quick update on the curriculum. I was contacted by Mark Weidhaas, the President-Elect of the S.A.M.. He said he was very interested in seeing what we've done so far and has a few ideas of his own for new programs for the organization, and he thinks this idea could be beneficial to everyone. So, we're still moving ahead. Maybe not as quickly as we may have hoped, but we're still moving.
Second, there's been a lot of work put in by Ed Fitchett and Sam Patton to organize a combined meeting/dinner with the Albany assembly. I've seen a lot of emails fly back and forth and it looks like we're on track to have an event take place in the fall.
Third, I just got wind that Tony Spina is resurrecting the Jubilee in mid August. While not affiliated with Tannens, it appears that it'll be just like the "good old days" only with a new name. Who knows? And here's the best part: the whole convention is going to be held at the Holiday Inn in Fishkill. I plan on doing some digging around and see what other details about performers, etc. I can dig up, as well as a rate for those of us who don't necessarily need to pay for a hotel room in our backyard. More to come ...
Finally, this month's meeting Marc Oberon will be adding another credit to his list:
1. 2005 European Champion of Close-up Magic
2. 2008 IBM/SAM People's Choice Champion
3. 2009 FISM Parlour Magic World Champion
4. 2010 -- Lecturer for Al Baker Assembly #35
Creator of many tricks, winner of magic competitions, Marc Oberon will be stopping by as part of a small US tour. Make sure you're here.
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday March 9, 2010
Event: Marc Oberon Lecture
Place: Milanese Restaurant
115 Main St
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
Marc Oberon has won the USA People's Trophy, European Close Up Championships, the Macmillan International Award and British Ring of the International Brotherhood of Magicians. Come see him in action ....Live!
Members,
I'll make an attempt to keep my monthly ranting short and sweet.
First a quick update on the curriculum. I was contacted by Mark Weidhaas, the President-Elect of the S.A.M.. He said he was very interested in seeing what we've done so far and has a few ideas of his own for new programs for the organization, and he thinks this idea could be beneficial to everyone. So, we're still moving ahead. Maybe not as quickly as we may have hoped, but we're still moving.
Second, there's been a lot of work put in by Ed Fitchett and Sam Patton to organize a combined meeting/dinner with the Albany assembly. I've seen a lot of emails fly back and forth and it looks like we're on track to have an event take place in the fall.
Third, I just got wind that Tony Spina is resurrecting the Jubilee in mid August. While not affiliated with Tannens, it appears that it'll be just like the "good old days" only with a new name. Who knows? And here's the best part: the whole convention is going to be held at the Holiday Inn in Fishkill. I plan on doing some digging around and see what other details about performers, etc. I can dig up, as well as a rate for those of us who don't necessarily need to pay for a hotel room in our backyard. More to come ...
Finally, this month's meeting Marc Oberon will be adding another credit to his list:
1. 2005 European Champion of Close-up Magic
2. 2008 IBM/SAM People's Choice Champion
3. 2009 FISM Parlour Magic World Champion
4. 2010 -- Lecturer for Al Baker Assembly #35
Creator of many tricks, winner of magic competitions, Marc Oberon will be stopping by as part of a small US tour. Make sure you're here.
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday March 9, 2010
Event: Marc Oberon Lecture
Place: Milanese Restaurant
115 Main St
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
Marc Oberon has won the USA People's Trophy, European Close Up Championships, the Macmillan International Award and British Ring of the International Brotherhood of Magicians. Come see him in action ....Live!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
February 2010
Next Meeting
Tuesday February 9, 2010
Brainstorming on S.A.M.
Curriculum & Video Night
Milanese Italian Restaurant
115 Main Street
Poughkeepsie, NY
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
President's WordsTuesday February 9, 2010
Brainstorming on S.A.M.
Curriculum & Video Night
Milanese Italian Restaurant
115 Main Street
Poughkeepsie, NY
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
Members,
Between ads for the superbowl and the olympics, I think I've hit my quota for exposure to inspirational athlete's. I've often wondered if things would've been different if I could kick, catch, hit, or throw a ball. I hope somewhere there's a quarterback or shortstop that sees a commercial for a David Blaine special and thinks, "man, imagine my life if I could only nail that faro-shuffle". Well, I can... and I can do it 8 times in a row... take that Mr. "I can run fast with a ball"!
I found last month's meeting to be quite refreshing, I often like the jam sessions just as much, if not more, than lectures. There were a few gems we learned last month, and Ed's newspaper trick was worth the trip alone.
This month I'd like to continue with the "jam session" thread (don't worry, we still have lecturers booked in the next few months) and also discuss a topic I brought up at the last meeting. So, we'll devote a portion of the meeting to a miniature video night, feel free to bring some dvd's or email us suggestions. More importantly, I'd like to spend time brainstorming on the S.A.M. curriculum. As many of you know from last month's meeting, I've put an item in front of the S.A.M. national officers to work out a curriculum for us to follow. Rather than go at it alone, I'd like to work out some of the details to present to the board with the members of our assembly. I think it'll be a good project for the club to work on as a group, and a good way to not only make sure we're moving forward, but to try to help the other assemblies move forward as well.
See you then,
-Derrin
This Month's Meeting Info
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday February 9, 2010
Event: Brainstorming on S.A.M.
Curriculum & Video Night
Place: Milanese Restaurant
115 Main St
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 471-9533
Time: 7:30 PM
Our beloved President has once again forged ahead into uncharted waters, fearlessly....... As some of you may know, from last month's meeting, the subject of a S.A.M. Curriculum was brought up. Ah...those that were not there may be asking themselves, "What is a S.A.M. Curriculum and where does this unbounded Presidential bravery come from?" Well that answer and many more, will be given at this month's meeting. So, plan on attending and see exactly what we are talking about! Derrin may also explain, how the S.A.M. National President Mike Miller and several other nationally know magicians, may get involved.
It should be a fun night, with videos to round out the evening. So, plan to attend and support this ground breaking effort being brought to the national council by Assembly #35.
Also, please remember if you would like to bring an interesting or original video that you think the club would enjoy seeing, please make sure it is on DVD or other Digital format (such as "thumb" drive or CD....no video tapes please).
MAGIC NEWS
Carl Ballantine, an inveterate quipmeister whose stand-up comedy persona, an incompetent magician known as the Amazing Ballantine or Ballantine the Great, predated and influenced the antic characters of Steve Martin and others, died on Nov. 3 at his home in Hollywood. He was 92.
Eric DeCamps receiving the Dean's Eternal Spirit Award on September 11th in New York City when he was sworn in as the new Dean of the Society Of American Magicians' Parent Assembly. Also pictured are Tom Klem and Sal Perrotta.
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