So, another trip to L.A this time I met up with my good friends L.A magicians Tony Picasso top geezer and Mr Howar(d) Hamburg. (Pictured) Spend time hanging out and listening to some of Howard’s great stories about Dai Vernon, Jennings and the Boys... My particular favourite was the one about Cardini's monkey.
Also on the trip got to witness the Hooker Card rise, not a trick performed by a lady of the night but by DR Hooker of the early 19th Century, which only a handful of lucky people have ever witnessed. (Prior to this performance only 150 people in all.) These magicians included Harry Houdini, Al Baker, and others of that era. An account (no explanation) can be found in greater magic and Pallbearers Review.
The evening was hosted by Mr Steinmeier and Mr Gaunt they asked the audience to question methods used during the performance and to take notes of possible plausible means. (The effect has never been worked out).
Other highlights were meeting up with a fantastic old card shark (who will remain nameless)... Suffice to say he's the Oregon Gambler who tipped a card muck to Vernon for the revelations book. I sat in his company for 7 whole hours showing me the work and telling tales of times long passed. A truly awesome time!
