Get Your Rewards Now!

Greetings from all of us at Hank Lee’s Magic Factory. What a fine week this has been. The Red Sox are back in first place, the Celtics have moved one step closer to the championship series, Bonnie has decided to use paper plates and plastic utensils for the big graduation party. Really what could be better?
Last Sunday was Lucas’ Spring Recital. What a treat. Not only because we heard Lucas sing some wonderful music, but because all of the young people in the recital were so very talented. If you are interested in seeing and hearing Lucas’ portion of the program, I have made it available in a Quicktime movie. Copy and paste this URL: (http://www.hanklee.org/lucasrecital.mov). It’s a pretty large file, so be patient while it downloads.

The Hank Lee Rewards Program is now up and running, and it’s working like a charm. For every retail dollar you spend with us at Hank Lee’s, you will get one Reward Point. Twenty Reward Points can be redeemed for one dollar in merchandise. Two hundred Reward Points gets you $10.00 in free merchandise. And on and on. The points are automatically added, and your point balance will appear on the invoice that comes with your order. There is no limit to the number of points you can collect. The points will not expire, so you can use them any time. All you need to do is tell us how many points you want to redeem when you place your next order (if you are ordering online, just put the number of points you would like to redeem in the Customer Notes Box and we will deduct the proper number of dollars from your order total). We think it’s a great idea. Even when we are not having a sales event, you will still be able to save for future orders! What could be better?

GET THE POINTS EVENT: In order to inaugurate the Rewards Program, and also because this is the long Memorial Day Weekend, we are having a very quick GET THE POINTS sale! It starts right now and ends on Monday the 26th of May at midnight. Everything (well, almost everything) is on sale at 25% off the retail price. All you need to do is enter the special code GETTHEPOINTS in the Discount Coupon Box of the online checkout at www.magicfact.com and we will automatically deduct 25% from your order total plus you will get your Reward Points! If you are calling your order in to the Toll Free Order Line at 800 874 7400, FAXing your order to us at 781 395 2034 or emailing us your order to magicfact@aol.com make sure to mention the special code so you can save a huge 25%!
• The minimum order to use the 25% off discount is $25.00.
• The 25% is deducted from the retail price of the item. No intermediate discounts (such as HankoGram pricing) may be applied. In the case of sets, such as DVDs and Videos, the 25% is deducted from the retail price of each item and not from the set price.
• Certain items, due to contractual restrictions, are not included in this sale. All Joe Porper items, Viking/CW items, Kennedy Enterprises items, Colin Rose items, Mike Caveney Books, JB Magic, Johnson Products items, MagicSmith items, Mikame Craft items, Greater Magic Teach-In DVDs, One Of A Kind Collectors' Items and a few other items are not included in the sale.
• If you place an order for an item that is not on this list or not noted in our online catalog, but is excluded from the sale, we will let you know before processing your order.
• Coupons will be deducted from the order total before the discount is applied.
• As the discount is automatically generated, you must put the special code GETTHEPOINTS in the Discount Coupon Box. You may have to scroll to the bottom of the page to find the box, but it is there. If you are not sure how to do this, please phone your order in to our toll-free order line at 800 874 7400, and we will take care of you. We cannot offer discounts retroactively.
And that's it. It could not be easier. So, get your order together and save yourself some serious money! But, act quickly. The sale ends Mnday at midnight!

Now, let’s take a look at this week’s Hotlist!

Self Filling Coke Bottle: You are going to love this one! It’s visual magic at its best.
Show an empty, capped Coca Cola Bottle. It is definitely empty. You can show it all around. Nothing inside. Really.
The cap is tightly attached, so there is no way to get anything into the bottle without removing the cap.
Now, lower the bottle into a nicely decorated tube. The bottle cap remains in full view at all times.
When you remove the bottle from the tube, it is filled with Coke! And, you can again show it all around. It’s completely filled!
It looks great. It’s easy as pie to do. It’s perfect as part of a routine using other liquid tricks, like Chen Lee Water Suspension or Milk Pitcher or Aerostatic Bottle. The props do all the work for you. Comes with the tube and the specially gimmicked genuine Coca Cola bottle. $49.95 (60.1522)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9448&cat=0&page=1)

Trio DVD – David Forrest: David Forrest presents three stunning card effects with one thing in common – a simple gaffed card!
Effect One: Shrink – A Hyper-Visual Sandwich Effect.
An incredibly visual sandwich effect with a stunning climax that will guarantee you are remembered. A selected card is continuously discovered in between the two Jokers, each time more impossible than the last. Eventually, you confess to the method - you are actually making the card too small to be seen! With that you shrink the selection to half its size! This is a stunner!
Effect Two: Transformer – A Multiple Selection Routine
Three cards are selected and lost back into the pack. The Jokers impossibly trap the first selection, let's say it's a Seven. Six cards are counted off the top of the deck and the seventh card is shown to be the second selection! Attention is now drawn back to the Seven, in between the two Jokers - it has transformed into the third selection! A real commercial stunner - perfect for table hopping!
Effect Three: Flight – A Test Conditions Card To Wallet
A card is selected. The spectator signs the face and the back is marked with a large 'X'. The signed card is placed in between two Jokers and the three card packet is left outjogged from the center of the deck. The spectator can still see the selected card at this point. With a snap of your fingers the deck is spread and there is now nothing in between the Jokers - the signed selection has completely vanished! You reach into your back pocket, that you have been nowhere near the entire time. Inside your regular, everyday wallet is the signed card! $20.00 (DVD00877)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9452&cat=0&page=1)

Abandoned – Bob Solari: Oh, you are just going to love Bob Solari’s latest wonder, Abandoned.
The effect is totally straightforward, and wildly visual.
A card is selected from an extremely shuffled deck. The card is returned to the deck, the deck is cut and shuffled a few more times, then replaced in the card box.
The card box with deck inside is placed on the table and covered with a handkerchief.
The spectator reaches under the handkerchief and removes the card box and deck.
When the handkerchief is whisked away, their chosen card is in full view, face up on the table!
Read on, and you will have to agree that this one is mighty close to real magic.
The deck is absolutely ungimmicked.
There are no threads, wires, loops, snaps, buttons, magnets, rubber bands, glue or talcum powder.
The handkerchief is not special in any way and can be borrowed.
The spectator removes the deck from under the handkerchief.
And, it’s really easy to do. I mean really easy! Comes with everything you need for $14.95 (30.1342)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9450&cat=0&page=1)

Invisible Stranger – Docc Hilford: It hides in shows and impersonates the innocent
Frustrated with complicated billet peeks that are more clever on the page than in the field? Tired of having to shove unfolded business cards in your wallet just to read them? Hate switching slips because it's so unnatural and you're sure to be caught with the hidden note? Then take a modern look at an ancient page from the descent of medium's notebook and use the cunning brilliance of The Invisible Stranger!
This 44 page book is jammed with detailed information, illustrations, and photographs. It’s really three manuscripts in one book! It contains...
* An invaluable method of billet reading that allows you to openly read a billet in front of the audience more easily than with a peek or a wallet.
* A full routined, scripted and audience tested act that's truly Real Time Mentalism and completely impromptu. Twenty years in actual Performance.
* A detailed, step-by-step self working method of selling the act to a proven market that's been searching for someone like you for years.
The Invisible Stranger is a combination of contemporary techniques blended with a closely guarded secret of spirit mediums. Its bold and direct methodology can be applied to hundreds of mental effects.
The new and improved, Strangers in the Night, is one of Docc's signature pieces. It showcases the mind reader's ability to look at women and tell if they're thinking of a friend, lover or someone else, whether the friend is male or female, disclose their name and accurately describe the friend who isn't even present! And apparently before touching a billet!
As a bonus, a quarter of the book is devoted to how, where and to whom you can sell this act for a solid, steady income. You'll learn everything about booking enough gigs to show off your new talent, perform part time or be one of a few select mentalists who will exploit this market for all it's worth. Mentalists have paid Docc a high fee to teach them how to successfully work the Ladies Club Market. Only about half a dozen mentalists now work this lucrative and hidden gold mine.
$45.00 (40.636)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9451&cat=0&page=1)

Tantalizing Wand: Another hilarious wand routine from Mr. Tricky, creator of the Flipple Tipple Wand.
It all starts with a normal-looking wand, black with white tips.
To your dismay, the white tip of the wand keeps falling off. Of course, the kids are quick to let you know.
You replace the tip, and it jumps to the other end of the wand. Now, there are two white tips on one end and no white tips on the other.
Remove the extra tip and replace it on the proper end, only to have it jump back to the other end!
Finally, you wrap the wand in paper and make the extra white tip vanish! When you remove the wand from the paper, it is now a multi-color wand!! The kids will go nuts!
Easy to do. A great new addition to your comedy wand arsenal. $39.00 (50.958)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9446&cat=0&page=1)

Ivory Connection- Reed McClintock and Steve Dobson:
What is The Ivory Connection?
It is the name explorers gave to the secret pathway leading from a clever pocket trick from the 1940’s to a stunning magical experience of today.
The Ivory Connection was discovered by professional performers Reed McClintock and Steve Dobson working in the trenches, exploring the past for new miracles to bring back to their audiences.
The Ivory Connection is the only version of the Sacks dice routine that begins with magic, looks like magic, and ends with magic. Two dice appear out of nowhere. Their spots dance across their faces, jumping from die to die until the only thing the audience is sure of is that they’ve seen all sides of each die. Each separate die
and then...they reach their final destination, just south of reality.
The new DVD features updated presentations, explanations, handlings and tips from both intrepid explorers. For the first time, the rare and illusive Steve Dobson reveals his preferred handling. For the first time, Reed McClintock explains the refinements he has made after years of performances for paying audiences. And as a bonus for future historians, the entire footage of the original Ivory Connection is included, in all of its low production glory.
Today’s audiences demand more than just a couple of dice whose sides don’t add up. Take them on a trip down the Ivory Connection. $35.00 (10.1097)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=1940&cat=0&page=1)

Lollapalooza: Lollapalooza contains three routines with contributions from Jon Armstrong, and inspirations from Darwin Ortiz and R. Paul Wilson. You will learn a 10-Card Poker Deal that is the fairest of them all! A Spectator-Cuts-The-Cards where the spectator ends up with an impossible hand of cards. An incredible Poker Demonstration involving a spectator choosing any 10 cards in an attempt to beat the dealer!
No forcing, or sleight-of-hand required.
Includes:
* Full patter for all routines
* Specially printed cards from the U.S. Playing Card Company.
* Custom Sticker for your card box
* Lots of fun reading!
$20.00 (30.1341)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9449&cat=0&page=1)

Focal Point – Andrew Mayne: Mentalism with a visual twist.
Introduce several antique photographs collected from around the world. A spectator is invited to freely select one to focus upon. After a moment of concentration you begin to zero in on the spectator's thoughts and reveal the selected photograph. However, in a strange climax, you leave the spectator wondering if they imagined it all when the chosen photograph is turned over to reveal a completely blurred image.
* Complete with everything needed to perform
* Spectator has a totally free choice.
* Resets Instantly
* Includes alternate routines. $20.00 (40.635)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9447&cat=0&page=1)

The Art Of Deception - Chuck Romano:
This book chronicles the long and colorful relationship between conjuring and art. For the first time, the history of artist and the magic art they created are profiled in detail.
The magician and artist are similar in many ways. As is true of painting or drawing, magic is a visual form of expression. Seizing an inanimate substance such as paint or ink, and using a brush or pen as a magic wand, artists create worlds of fantasy on canvas and paper. Magicians and artists alike strive to evoke wonder in the hearts and minds of their audience.
In this remarkable book, award-winning author Chuck Romano explores the rich tapestry of magic art and the men and women who have created it. Early examples of magic art from Bosch and Bruegel, to Daumier and Cham, are discussed. A detailed look at the lithographic process, the companies that produced magic lithos and the performers immortalized by them are featured. Romano also highlights contemporary collectors of conjuring and their preservation of magic art for generations to come.
This revised and updated second edition also looks at other subjects, such as major artists of the past and present, illustrators of magic catalogs and magazines, conjuring's connection to comic books, artists whose magic art is primarily fine art (painting or sculpture), and much more are included in this copiously illustrated volume.
Pages 424 - Hardbound with Dust Jacket, Photo-Illustrated. $65.00 (BK01581)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9445&cat=0&page=1)

And that’s the hottest of the hot stuff for this Memorial Day weekend. Don’t forget to save some serious money with our GET THE POINTS sales event, and get those Reward Point for your future orders!
As always, I hope you will find some time to spend with us either online at www.magicfact.com or in person at our almost one year old retail studio at 102 North Street in Medford. Either way, we love the company.
Hank Lee

It's Free DVD Week!

Greetings from all of us at Hank Lee’s Magic Factory. It’s been a trying week here at Hank Lee Central, to be sure. In an effort to improve our computer networking and our Internet speed, we changed service providers. It all looked so easy on paper. New routers, new hubs and switches, all done in a few hours. Right. Not. Because of the way the new ISP distributed the IP addresses, we needed to make changes in every single computer in the building, plus every printer that used an IP address, plus the order entry system, which network using IP addresses. And, just when it looked like we were good to go, we needed to update the shipping system because of the changes in postal rates. It took two days of constant work with the Pitney Bowes tech department to get things back to where they were before the upgrade. Finally, everything is back to normal and hopefully will stay that way!

Some great books have just come back in print! Check these out: Card Magic of Nick Trost, Apocalypse Volume Two, Magic Menu Years 6-10, Carneycopia, Dai Vernon’s Inner Card Trilogy, Vernon Chronicles Volumes Two and Four!

There is a DVD currently on the market describing how to make your own Flash Paper. I’m sure the DVD is well produced and has some good information. But, I can tell you that making Flash Paper is an extremely dangerous process. I absolutely do not recommend even attempting to make Flash Paper at home. It is simply not worth the risk. Better safe than sorry, if you know what I mean.

And, that brings us to this week’s more than exciting excitement!

DVD GIVEAWAY: With the sheer volume of new DVDs hitting the market, what could be better than a DVD Giveaway! For the next seven days, from right now until Thursday, May 22nd, at midnight, you have the opportunity to get DVDs for free! But, you have to get them the old fashioned way. You must earn them.
Here's the way it works. For every order of $100 or more, you get one free DVD (your choice of any single DVD that sells for $35.00 or less). If you spend $200 or more, you get two free DVDs (again, your choice). $300 or more gets you three free DVDs. And on it goes. The more you buy, the more you get for free! It's an incredible deal when you figure that the average price of a DVD is $35.00! In order to claim your free DVD, just put the name of the DVD in the Customer Notes Box at the bottom of the second page of the online checkout (after you fill in your name, address, etc.) at www.magicfact.com. If you phone your order in to our toll free number at 800 874 7400, just let the order-person know what free DVD(s) you want. If you FAX the order to us at 781 395 2034, same thing. Just let us know which ones you want. Remember, the giveaway ends on Thursday, May 22nd, at midnight!

Now, let’s take a peek at this week’s Hotlist!

Numismatic - Tim David:
Borrow a coin, have it marked and drop it somewhere near the center of an unprepared glass table.
Show both hands cleanly and clearly empty.
Press on the coin and it visibly passes through the table and into your waiting hand below. One second it's above the glass, the next it just drops right through. You can hand the coin (and table!) out for examination; they will find nothing.
It's that simple. The way real magic should be. Quick, visual, hard-hitting, high-impact, and utterly impossible, leaving the spectators with no hope of ever figuring it out.
Works on any unprepared glass surface. Use any coin. No magnets. No "jewelry" required. Resets instantly. No funny moves. Just push and it's through. The special gimmick makes it all extremely visual and super easy to do.
If you do close up magic of any kind, then Numismatic belongs in your arsenal. Everything in the description is absolutely true. Tim David has come up with an ingenious method that fools people even if they're "in the know".
You get the gimmick and a full-length, professionally produced DVD that clearly explains every tiny detail of the effect.
$24.95 (20.387)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9440&cat=0&page=1)

Card Dice: Show the audience six small cubes. Each cube has six sides, each side showing one segment of a playing card. The faces are all different.
Stack the cubes on top of each other forming two stacks of three dice each. Their faces are mixed up and do not show any particular card. Place the two stacks of dice side by side and show from all sides. Their faces are all completely mixed up.
Now, cover up the dice with a handkerchief. A spectator selects a card from the pack. Let's say the spectator picks the Jack of Spades. Explain to the audience that, for some reason, the cards feel drawn towards each other and remove the handkerchief from the dice set-up. Unbelievably, all six cubes are now rearranged to form a complete image of the chosen card.
Offer to repeat this experiment.
Cover up the cubes again with the handkerchief. Another spectator is asked to select a card, but this time, the card is not shown.
"The cubes have once again rearranged themselves under cover of the handkerchief, thereby forming the value of the card you just chose," you say dramatically before removing the handkerchief.
At this point, the expected applause does not come. When you at the card formed by the two stacks of cubes, the image on their face does not resemble any particular card. All six faces have a different index and the image is thus completely muddled..
The audience will assume that you have made a mistake. But, fear not.
Ask the spectator to look at his card and to now show it to everyone. He will realize, together with everyone else, that his selection matches exactly the image on the dice set-up! Both are identical. Six different card segments in random order. This random order is identical to the random order shown on the spectator's selection!
Easy to do. No sleight-of-hand necessary. The props are constructed in such a way that they do all the work for you. This lets you concentrate entirely on the presentation.
Superb workmanship, made by a master craftsman.
Total Dimensions Approximately 3 7/8" x 2 5/8" x 1 1/4" (9cm x 7cm x 3cm) $99.95 (30.1338)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9437&cat=0&page=1)

Smoke Signals – G. Sparks: A spectator freely picks a card and returns it to the deck. Place the cards back into the card case, as you explain a very old way to reveal the chosen card, “by smoke signal.”
As you say this, a steady stream of smoke begins to come out of the card case held in one hand. Your other hand reaches into the smoke and produces the chosen card.
Comes with DVD, Smoke Signal Generator (activated by an included magnet) and enough fluid to produce the steady smoke signal over 800 times. Operates on a 9v battery. Fits into any card case.
Smoke Fluid Ingredients: Propylene Glycol, Glycerin and Distilled water. Commonly used in food, drugs and cosmetics. $65.00 (30.1340)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9444&cat=0&page=1)

ProPick Ice Pick: The Comedy Ice Pick is one of the funniest visual gags we ever carried. We were all so sad when it became unavailable. Now, Steven Dick has resigned the classic prop for improved visibility and improved versatility! Perfect for the time-honored "Milk From Elbow" routine; but there's more. Four new and original routines are included with the ProPick: A dollar bill penetration; a screwdriver through coat routine; a destroyed and restored handkerchief sequence and a very funny card trick!
The ProPick was designed to eliminate the flaws found in other models. It is visible from a distance, and looks like the real thing. It doesn’t look like a magic prop, which increases its effectiveness.
Most audience today don’t have any idea what an ice pick is No problem. With a Sharpie marker and a few minutes time, you can make it look like a Philips Head screwdriver. And, everyone knows what one of those looks like, even Bonnie!
Check out a few of the features:
* Lathe-turned hardwood handle
* Polished aluminum shaft, ¼” in diameter
* Custom-milled compression spring for reliable operation
* Stainless Steel hardware and accents
* Equally effective close-up or on stage
* Works really well in a routine with the Milk Pitcher and Comedy Funnel!
$49.95 (60.1521)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9435&cat=0&page=1)

Shellraiser DVD – Troy Hooser: Learn the basic techniques needed to master the most deceptive gimmick in coin magic: The Expanded Shell. This secret weapon makes visual, eye-popping magic possible -- and easy to do.
Underground legend Troy Hooser demonstrates over 10 routines with the shell, as well as all necessary moves, tips and sleights.
Among the effects performed and explained are:
* Coins Across
* Vanishes
* Coins Through Table
* Productions
* And more!
Each DVD includes a precision-made Expanded Half Dollar Shell, absolutely free! $24.95 (DVD00875)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9434&cat=0&page=1)

Inked – Jordan Johnson:
A spectator's chosen card shows up as tattoo in the most unusual of places.
From the creator of Holy Grail, one of the greatest visual advancements to the torn and restored card plot, Jordan Johnson brings you a tattoo reveal like no other on the market.
A deck of cards enters play. A spectator picks a card and checks it. The magician rubs the card against his cheek and one of the pips vanishes, only to end up on the inside of his mouth tattooed into his flesh. Everyone can see it. It's right there. There's stunned silence.
Striking and bold, this is the kind of in-your-face magic people never forget.
Then the magician forcefully blows onto the face of the card and the pip instantly reappears. They break into applause. But there's more. The pip is now gone from his cheek. $24.95 (30.1339)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9443&cat=0&page=1)

Cell - David Stone:
In Collaboration with Mickael Chatelain
Signed card in your cell phone!
Cell is a gimmick that allows you to produce a signed card in the battery compartment of your cell phone.
It’s the Kennedy Mystery Box for magicians who don't want to carry a box in their pocket.
You receive a DVD and the gimmick that you put in your cell phone in a few seconds. The telephone is yours, works and can be used normally.
The reset is less than 1 second and you can use it in pro situations, stand-up and surrounded.
High quality gimmick for professional use. $49.95 (30.1336)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9432&cat=0&page=1)

Jumbo Bicycle Gaffs:
All the most popular gaffed cards are now available in Jumbo Bicycle Rider back. Printed by the U.S. Playing Card Company, the quality of these cards is consistently high.
Available cards:
* 52-on-1 (Red or Blue)
* 14 of Spades (Red only)
* 3 1/2 of Clubs (Red only)
* Tree of Diamonds (Red only)
* Blank Face (Red or Blue back)
* Blank Both sides
* Double Back (Red/Red, Blue/Blue, or Red/Blue)
Please specify. Price is per card. (30.1337) $2.50
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9433&cat=0&page=1)

Dramatic Magic – John Booth: Packed into this book are countless refreshing ideas for those who seek something new! Tricks based on music or sound; the bios and routines of pickpocket magic experts; a variety of escapes before and after Houdini's era; and a complete gambling lecture ready to use! Included are two knockout mentalism/spirit effects from Booth's celebrity platform lecture-shows. Close-up magic anyone can do. Special chapters surveying the ideas and genius of magic masters. The latest detailed revelations identifying the mysterious Erdnase as M.F. Andrews, murdering gambler! To enhance table routines, a modified palmistry course in one easy lesson. Truly a book with something for everyone! Two years in preparation. Hardbound; beautifully produced. 257 pages. $50.00 (BK00644)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=5994&cat=0&page=1)

B.S. Board – Jeff Stewart: Since the original release of the B.S. Board thousands of magicians and entertainers have used it on stage, up close and during casual encounters. This new B.S. Board has been redesigned and manufactured using special plastic. It folds to 4½"x7" (11.43x17.78cm) and can fit in your shirt or jacket pocket.
Anytime you want to get a quick laugh, take it out of your pocket and in your most sincere voice read it out loud; "Being an entertainer is a unique opportunity which lets me bring joy into your lives
" Once you finish reading the sentiment fold the B.S. Board as you say, "And I mean that sincerely." The spectators will slowly begin to notice what the first letter of every line now spells, which will cause hysterical laughter.
It is ideal for close-up, walk around, bars, comedy clubs, emcee work and between friends. Don't underestimate the great reactions this memorable gag gets. $15.00 (50.358)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9438&cat=0&page=1)

Professor's Nightmare, The Awakening - Ron Dayton:
The Professor's Nightmare- Everyone knows it and does it, and audiences still love it. One of the biggest challenges is finding a presentation that is both unique and interesting, particularly when you know of other performer's in your market using the same old patter.
Which is where Ron Dayton’s new book comes in. You won't find special slick moves, or any methodology in this book. You will find 20 new routines for the Professor's Nightmare, everything from gospel to bizarre, comedic to serious. Ron has variations using chains, Dr. Frankenstein flowers, dog leashes, tape measures and more!
Ron Dayton is one of the treasures of magic. He has authored countless books and invented tens of dozens of tricks- many of which you may do today without knowing their origin.
Within the 20 routines, the brief directions or notes are given parenthetically, while the rest of the text represents spoken words. Much of Ron's writing must be read aloud and approached as prose to get a feel for how it is to be delivered.
Some of these routines will fit your taste as is, others will be springboards for your creativity. One thing is certain, you will never look at the Professor's Nightmare the same way again!
Pages 40 – Softbound $25.00. (BK01580)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9439&cat=0&page=1)

Technical Dove Tosses DVD - Dan Sperry:
In this whimsical DVD the mercurial Dan Sperry takes you backstage to learn the inner secrets of return flight dove training. You will learn step by step how to properly train your birds for a near 100% successful return toss rate in literally any condition!
Dan begins by giving you a little background into the training process and his secrets to developing this method. He will then take you backstage to where he performs nightly in Las Vegas with two untrained return flight birds and you will see the steps he takes day by day to train his birds to return with incredible accuracy. Within one week Dan had two doves returning; by day 8 you get to see him use them in a live performance.
Once you are ready to learn some new ideas in dove tossing, Dan teaches his acclaimed tossing techniques for a more natural looking dove toss for maximum impact of your productions. You will also learn Dan's incredible handling of these eye-popping effects:
* Dove in Balloon Technique.
* Ball to Dove Technique.
* Dove from Silk Toss Technique.
$30.00 (DVD00876)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9441&cat=0&page=1)

And that’s another week of brand new magical excitement! Lots of very cool items, for sure. Take your time checking it out, and look around the rest of our online catalog as well! It’s shocking how much great stuff we carry.
As always, I hope you will find some time to spend with us either online at www.magicfact.com or in person at our showroom to the stars at 102 North Street in Medford. Either way, we love it when you visit.
Hank Lee

It's Mother's Day, So Don't Forget!

Greetings from all of us at Hank Lee’s Magic Factory. I hope everyone got the photos I posted last week of my cousin’s son’s Long Island Bar Mitzvah. Great photos, I know you must have enjoyed them. I wonder, would you like to see some photos of our trip to Howe’s Cavern? I think I may also have some photos floating around of our wedding? Any interest in those? Just let me know.
When I bought the tickets to last Sunday’s Red Sox game, the weather guy was promising sunny and warm. The liar. It rained all day Friday and Saturday. Sunday, the rain finally stopped, but it was just plain cold. But, we are troopers. Oh, yes we are. So, off we went to Fenway Park for the ball game. The game was excellent. The Red Sox won. Did you see us there? We were the ones with icicles hanging from our faces? Brrrr.
Aron has been home all week, and we have really enjoyed having him with us. He made a long list of techno-improvements that we absolutely must deal with. New routers, wi-fi boosters. You know, the usual. Aron got his grades for last semester. He did the best ever. All As and just a couple of Bs. We’re very proud of him!
Lucas is in the Spring play this weekend. The LHS production of Faust. Should be very interesting. All I know is that Lucas is wearing white jazz shoes. ‘Nuff said.
Bonnie is knee-deep in party planning for the big graduation party. I have taken a most definite don’t ask don’t tell position on this one. But, knowing Bonnie, it will be fun. I know. I can post some photos of the party! Want to see them?
Don’t forget that this Sunday is Mother’s Day. Make sure you get a card and a little something for your mother, your wife and any other female in your life. It’s oh, so important. And, I’m not joking.
And, now to this week’s excitement.

MAYDAY Sales Event: It’s May. What can you say? The sun is shining. The flowers are blooming. The trees are leafing. All seems right with the world! And so, for the next seven days, from the very moment you receive this email until Thursday, May 15th at midnight, everything (well, almost everything) is on sale at 25% off the retail price. All you need to do is enter the special code MAYDAY in the Discount Coupon Box of the online checkout at www.magicfact.com and we will automatically deduct 25% from your order total. If you are calling your order in to the Toll Free Order Line at 800 874 7400, FAXing your order to us at 781 395 2034 or emailing us your order to magicfact@aol.com make sure to mention the special code so you can save a huge 25%!
• The minimum order to use the 25% off discount is $25.00.
• The 25% is deducted from the retail price of the item. No intermediate discounts (such as HankoGram pricing) may be applied. In the case of sets, such as DVDs and Videos, the 25% is deducted from the retail price of each item and not from the set price.
• Certain items, due to contractual restrictions, are not included in this sale. All Joe Porper items, Viking/CW items, Kennedy Enterprises items, Colin Rose items, Mike Caveney Books, JB Magic, Johnson Products items, MagicSmith items, Mikame Craft items, Greater Magic Teach-In DVDs, One Of A Kind Collectors' Items and a few other items are not included in the sale.
• If you place an order for an item that is not on this list or not noted in our online catalog, but is excluded from the sale, we will let you know before processing your order.
• Coupons will be deducted from the order total before the discount is applied.
• As the discount is automatically generated, you must put the special code MAYDAY in the Discount Coupon Box. You may have to scroll to the bottom of the page to find the box, but it is there. If you are not sure how to do this, please phone your order in to our toll-free order line at 800 874 7400, and we will take care of you. We cannot offer discounts retroactively.
And that's it. It could not be easier. So, get your order together and save yourself some serious money! But, act quickly. The sale ends Thursday at midnight!

Now, let’s take a look at this week’s Hotlist!

Miracle Premonition – Steve Shufton: An open prediction like no other!
Explain the idea of psychic premonition - that it might actually be possible to accurately predict an event that has yet to take place. To demonstrate, show the back of a mini playing card. This mini card will be used as the prediction of a card the spectator has yet to select.
Instead of a mini playing card, you may openly write a prediction on a slip of paper, fold it and leave it in full view.
The prediction can be put in a small envelope, a rubber-banded matchbox or simply left in full view face down on the table. One way or another, the prediction is left in full view and you emphasize that it will not be touched again.
A deck of cards is removed from the card box and ribbon spread on the table, or spread between your hands. The cards are initially spread face down, as you explain that a magician will typically ask a spectator to select a card from a face down deck, which seems hardly fair! After all, without seeing the cards, the spectator has no way of knowing if it was a free selection. The cards might all be the same, or the magician may be able to use some sort of trickery to influence the spectator in his choice!
Scoop the cards up again and re-spread the deck face up. Now there is no way that the spectator can be lulled into selecting any particular card. Emphasize that, as the spectator can see, all 52 cards are there, and even a Joker, so the spectator truly has a free choice of absolutely any card in the deck.
Ask the spectator to very carefully look over all the cards, and
indicate when she has made a decision. You gather up the cards. The spectator is asked to name the card so there can be absolutely no mistake that the card she names and the card she saw are definitely the same card - she can still change her mind one last time! The cards are boxed and set back on the table.
With your hands in full sight and no false moves of any kind, pick up the matchbox and remove the rubber band. The spectator admits that the box has never been out of her sight.
Your hands are shown empty before the drawer is removed. Push open the drawer and shake the miniature card out onto the table. You never touch the mini card. The spectator verifies that nothing else is in the box and nothing went in or came out of it since it was originally sealed.
The spectator is invited to turn the card over. Guess what? The miniature card perfectly matches the random and free selection!
This amazing effect has some advantages worth considering:
This effect is completely self-contained. It can be done anytime, anywhere, in short sleeves, and no pocket work. The hands and props never leave the spectator’s sight. The spectator truly has a completely free choice of any of the cards, and the deck is full, including a joker, with no duplicates. The choice is really free! No force of any kind!
Nothing extra is needed or used. Resets in a few seconds. No memory work. Easy to do and an absolute killer that will fool the wisest ones! Use a matchbox, an envelope or do it with no cover at all! Many revelations are included in the 32 page booklet!
Shufton's Miracle Premonition has been in development for over three years. No expense has been spared to furnish the highest quality product. Each takes hours of painstaking, meticulous work - so much so, that you will not find anything else like it, anywhere at any price!
The price has been kept as low as possible, believe me! $149.95 (30.1335)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9429&cat=0&page=1)

Bob Does Hospitality – Bob Sheets: A series of three DVDs covering Bob’s current close-up repertoire of nine routines. These routines are the ones Bob does every day. These are the ones that get the money! Each DVD contains one “act”. Each act is built on three dynamite routines that will play well in any close-up situation from strolling during cocktails to table-hopping to formal close-up. With all three acts in his pockets, Bob can go from group to group without repeating a routine until he gets to the fourth group—yet each group gets to see a complete show. This strategy is without a doubt the smartest way to work many events. You have enough material to do a really great job but your pockets aren’t filled to the brim and you don’t have to carry a case to the show. Each routine is independent so you can mix and match the routines to the audience in front of you, on the fly. The methods for the routines are in a word, easy. Bob has done most of the work for you. If the
best method is a gaff, Bob uses a gaff. If the best method is a series of outs Bob shows you what to say and how to say it. Bob uses easy methods so you can concentrate on your performance! Even though the methods are easy the routines are
foolers!

Volume One:
Bunnies — It’s a classic, but Bob’s non-stop lines have the audience in stitches from start to finish. Bob teaches two handlings, one uses no sleight of hand at all!
Intuition — This card routine is Sheets at his best. Members of the audience read each other’s minds and have no idea how they did it!
Marked — Bob’s handling of a classic John Cornelius trick. It’s got it all.

Volume Two:
Triple Transpo — This routine is the classic Copper, Silver, Brass but Bob’s new handling has solved the problem of ringing the gaffed set in and out invisibly without going to your pockets.
Botcha — A diabolical multi-phase version of Triumph.
Red Hot Mama — Bob’s taken Whit Haydn’s work into the stratosphere by developing a series of outs that let the spectators make all of the decisions, change their minds as much as they like, yet you still control the outcome!

Volume Three:
Three Ball Trick— Non-stop visuals and the best work on the methods for the classic three ball plot.
Flash Deck — Instant mindreading! The deck does 95% of the work for you. Destined to become a classic.
Six Tricks In Two Minutes —It’s more like 60 tricks in 2 minutes! The deck is gaffed and does the work for you.
Special price for all three DVDs: $79.95 (DVD00868A)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9420&cat=0&page=1)

Silver Impression: From Alex Lourido, the creator of Glass Mirage and ButterCoin, Silver Impression includes a full length instructional DVD, and two incredible gaffs.
With these tools, you'll be armed and ready to visibly melt a coin with your bare hands, and smash your fingerprint into the coin - permanently! In addition, you'll learn how to use these techniques to create a stunning card revelation.
Warning: this effect is so powerful, spectators will swear they just witnessed a true paranormal event! $39.95 (20.386)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9417&cat=0&page=1)

Secrets of Close-Up Magic DVD – Volume One:
World’s Greatest Magic By The World’s Greatest Magicians -
Magicians who specialize in close-up magic are constantly in search of material that doesn’t use playing cards. Easily seventy-five percent of the magic that’s been published over the last 50 or 60 years has been card magic of one kind or another, so quality non-card material is a relatively scarce commodity in the literature.
On this DVD, you’ll meet seven different performers presenting and teaching powerful close-up routines that will wow any audience – and there’s not a playing card in sight!
The legendary Bruce Cervon starts off with a beautifully routined piece of magic where a borrowed handkerchief is clearly seen to be burned, magically repaired and then used for a stunning production.
Glen Falkenstein, of the famed mentalism team of Falkenstein & Willard, combines two simple and well-known dealer items to create a beautiful hybrid of magic.
Michael Ammar gives you all of the work on Stefan Schutzer’s wonderful animated bill effect.
Bob Read is next with a hilarious routine that will make you sorry you laughed so hard because you will be badly fooled by the trick’s end.
Mark Leveridge offers an elegant and very magical coin box routine.
Flip brings the mystery of the classic linking rings to a few safety pins.
Finally, Bill Malone performs and teaches a wonderful (and wonderfully portable!) Cups and Balls routine that will charm young and old alike.
$19.95 (DVD00872)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9425&cat=0&page=1)

Cookie’s Fortune – Paul Romhany & T.C. Tahoe:
A modern and entertaining mentalism routine that will wow any audience!
Walk through the audience, having a few different spectators write numbers down on the back of your business card. Then, invite a spectator to join you on stage, hand her the card and ask her to add the numbers together.
Bring out a Chinese takeout box filled with Fortune Cookies. Two or three cookies are cracked open and the fortunes read aloud.
The fortunes are then placed into a plastic bag containing fortunes from all your past cookies. The box of cookies is placed in full view.
Another spectator reaches into the plastic bag and takes out one of the fortunes without revealing what it says.
Once these things are done you try unsuccessfully to read the spectators’ minds. Explain that it’s just one of those days, and you should have known it too, because you went out for Chinese food last night and your fortune cookie told you to beware of large crowds today. Always listen to your Fortune Cookie.
A spectator is given a free choice of any of the other fortune cookies and asked to hold onto it. (note: these are real cookies sealed in their own individual plastic wrapping)
Finally, the spectator cracks open the cookie and the saying on the cookie matches the chosen fortune! Plus, the ‘lucky number’ on the reverse side matches the total of the audience chosen numbers!
An amazing routine that includes:
* Bag of Real Fortune Cookies (real cookies)
* Bag of Gimmicked Fortune Cookies (also real cookies)
* Takeout boxes
* Special gimmicked force bag
* Detailed instructions
$94.95 (60.1520)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9431&cat=0&page=1)

Secrets Of Close-Up Magic DVD – Volume Two:
World’s Greatest Magic By The World’s Greatest Magicians.
On this DVD, you’ll meet eight different performers presenting and teaching powerful close-up routines that will wow any audience – and there’s not a playing card in sight!
Eugene Burger and David Parr begin this volume with a stunning update of U. F. Grant’s classic bill transposition.
Banachek is next with a sensational book test.
J. J. Sanvert combines two effects to create a wonderful interlude with a spectator’s borrowed bill.
Gregory Wilson follows with a mind-boggling bill switch routine that takes the audience on a figurative trip around the world
Paul Wilson performs and teaches a streamlined version of John Ramsay’s classic Cylinder and Coins.
Finally, Daryl demonstrates a totally impromptu one-cup routine that can be performed any time and any place.
$19.95 (DVD00873)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9426&cat=0&page=1)

Magic At The Edge DVD Set – Jeff McBride:
The middle of the Nevada desert. Four hundred square miles of nothing. Not even streets. Just 50,000 people attending the world’s largest art festival. It’s Survival Magic and there are no spectators, only participants in the most extreme conditions imaginable. Welcome to Burning Man and Magic at the Edge! Since the dawn of time, magicians have sought inspiration in the most unusual places. Burning Man is one of the most inspiring environments for performance magic in all the world.
You’ve seen Jeff McBride featured on A&E’s Mindfreak, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, and VH-1’s Celebracadabra. Now you can see Jeff in action performing his magic at one of the wildest places in the world, the Burning Man Art Festival. But this is far more than just a performance video. It is a teaching video, an exploration that searches for the very heart and soul of magic. Here is an inside look into the lifestyle of one of the world’s great magicians and how and why he seeks inspiration.
Magic at the Edge offers magic for all skill levels, with commentary from Eugene Burger and Jeff’s wife, Abbi McBride. They share their philosophies and techniques on performance. They teach you how you can add more meaning to your existing routines and use your magic to teach powerful lessons. Polish the magic you already perform and experience the wisdom of these masters of the art.

Disc One: Magician 24/7
Includes: Tribal Piercing, Magic Wishing Rainbow, Rainbow To Dollar, Wishing Rainbow/Rainbow To Rose, Magic Bubbles, Hindu Rope/Rising Card, The Bead & String Mystery, World’s Fastest Hands, No Smoking, The Pod Belt and McWallet
Discussions: Magician 24/7, Audience Participation, Flight Time, 21st Century Street Magic With Eugene Burger
Bonus Material:Meet Jeff McBride, The Shaman’s Drum, McTip #1

Disc Two: Survival Magic
Includes: Houdini Straightjacket, The Magnetic Cards, Heart Connection, Prisna’s Dancing Cane, The Shark Fin Pin, Samina’s Into Gold, Trash To Treasure, Business Card Connection, McQuick Tip trick, McMint.
Discussions: Traveling With Props, Less-On, Interview with Sensei Strange
Bonus Material: Mystery School, Assistant’s Revenge, McTip #2

Disc Three: Art Attack
Includes: Chen Lee McBurger Water Suspension, Water In The Newspaper, Jinks, Listen To The Mustn’ts, Hermetic Star Gazer, Spellbound, Burning Man In The Hand, Fire Ritual
Discussions: About Burning Man, Simplicity
Bonus Material: Kabuki Magic, McTip #3, TV Commercial, Fire Circle
$99.95 (DVD00871)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9424&cat=0&page=1)

Sponge Eggs - Alan Wong
One egg multiplies into four. Spectator chooses one of the eggs and it turns into a duck!
You are supplied with four sponge eggs and a rubber ducky with opening at the bottom.
Egg Dimensions Approximately 2 1/2" x 1 1/2" (6.35cm x 3.81cm)
Duck Dimensions Approximately 2" x 2" x 1 3/4" (5.08cm x 5.08cm x 4.44cm)
$20.00 (10.1453)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9430&cat=0&page=1)

Secrets Of Close-Up Magic DVD – Volume Three:
World’s Greatest Magic By the World’s Greatest Magicians.
On this DVD, you’ll meet seven different performers presenting and teaching powerful close-up routines that will wow any audience – and there’s not a playing card in sight!
John Mendoza leads off with his stunning version of the Benson/Alan bowl routine, complete with three jaw-dropping final loads that actually make sense.
Next up, Tommy Wonder demonstrates a truly impossible feat as he magically threads a needle with 20 strands of thread, creating a wonderful souvenir in the process.
Al Schneider performs a great money printing routine while teaching the proper handling of a Himber Wallet at the same time.
Henry Evans shows off a whimsical miracle where a silk handkerchief is produced from a photograph.
Master coin manipulator David Roth magically transforms four U.S. coins into coins from different countries before causing them to vanish and reappear in a toy globe that was in plain sight throughout the routine.
Johnny Thompson reaches back into magic history to perform and teach Max Malini’s classic assembly trick.
Last but by no means least, Larry Jennings demonstrates a signature effect, his one cup-one ball routine, which begins with the magical production of the cup and ends with its complete vanish.
$19.95 (DVD00874)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9427&cat=0&page=1)

Split Spades Deck - Lion Series - David Blaine
For the past several months David Blaine and his production team have been carefully crafting the next generation of his Split Spades Deck - The Lions. The deck features a level of intricacy never before seen in playing card design, and David himself experimented with the feel and finish until he was 101% satisfied.
The Split Spades design is iconic - there is an elegance and a level of intricacy among each element of the core design. The Ace of Spades design (and the box design) are all new, featuring two-way images and hidden text. These features and other revolutionary design components unite to form a deck that is unlike any other.
The finish and card stock is unique and completely new to the Split Spades. Not too thick, not too thin. The focus was to produce a deck that handled well and - just as importantly - lasted.
Split Spades playing cards are recognized as must-haves among magicians and card players - a true collector's item. The latest edition, the Lion Deck, is once again personally designed by David Blaine, in collaboration with renowned artist Mark Stutzman. Printed in limited quantities.
* Made by the United States Playing Card Company from the highest quality papers for improved handling and durability.
* An elegant highly detailed card back design.
* Beautifully designed box
* Custom face cards and Ace of Spades design
* An Optical illusion Joker. $6.95 (30.1334)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9418&cat=0&page=1)

Divine2 - Stathi Zaf:
The Ultimate Method to Divine a Spectator's Thoughts
Step into the uncommon mind of Stathi Zaf, one of the most extraordinary underground magicians to ever hit the scene. Combining his deep appreciation and love for magic and mentalism, a passion for engineering, and a critical thinking ability that would challenge the most gifted inventors in history, Stathi Zaf introduces you to one of the most devilish and deviously clever methods ever devised to definitely divine a spectator's thoughts.
On the streets and in the studio, Stathi teaches you everything you'll ever need to know to not only construct this diabolical gaff, but to also slay audiences no matter where you perform. And the beauty is, you'll do it right under their noses.
Kept secret and only revealed to a select few for many years, Stathi finally shares this fantastic method with you in this informative and educational DVD as part of the Stathi Zaf Project. $24.95 (40.633)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9428&cat=0&page=1)

And, that’s the lot of it. And, a fine lot it is! Great magic coupled with a super-fine sales event. What more could you ask for? Here’s hoping you have all kinds of fun checking out this week’s new stuff.
As for me, as always I hope you will find some time to spend with us either online at www.magicfact.com or in person at our decorated for Mother’s Day showroom at 102 North Street in Medford. Either way we love the company.
Hank

Spring Reading - Much Better Than Spring Cleaning!

Greetings from all of us at Hank Lee’s Magic Factory. Another beautiful week here in Boston, especially if you are a big fan of rain! I know. We needed the rain. But, it’s just so, well, wet.

Last weekend Bonnie, Lucas and I toddled off to Martha’s Vineyard to get the house in order for the upcoming Summer. It’s the first time we have gone to the island this early, and it worked out really well. The “honey-do” list that is usually presented to me sometime in late May or early June was shorter than usual (maybe because it was still April) and easily handled by the three of us. We cleaned the house, moved the outdoor items back outdoors and then cleaned our little pond. If you have never cleaned a pond, let me just say this. Yuck. We drained it and removed all the dead and decomposed leaves. Then, we scrubbed the liner and looked everywhere for last year’s fish. No fish to be found. Bummer. Apparently the fish did not “winter over” as advertised. It was a noble experiment that just didn’t work out. We said a little prayer for the fish, then refilled the pond, put the water plants back in (they did winter over) and it looks great. And clean.

I just want to take a second to congratulate our old friend Paul Ross for his Award Of Merit from Hollywood’s famous Magic Castle. Well deserved.

Aron comes homes on Saturday for a short break. Then, it’s back to school for some summer courses. He’s working like a house on fire, and we are really proud of him. Lucas is now into his last month of Senior year. He is so busy that we hardly see him. The good news is that he will be around all summer, so we’ll see him plenty then! To celebrate the family all being together, I bought some tickets for the Red Sox game on Sunday. If you watch the game on TV, we’ll be the ones wearing Red Sox caps. Look for us.

Important note: Are you still getting the weekly email Newsletter in Text Only format? Want to get our oh,so much nicer html version? Drop me a note and I will be happy to switch you over!

Now, for this week’s excitement.

Spring READING SALE: Spring is a great time for reading. What could be better than sitting in the hammock, curled up with a good magic book? Nothing, sez me! Starting right now and ending on Tuesday, the 6th of May at midnight, you can save 25% on every single book that we carry, except those published by Mike Caveney's Magic Words. All you need to do is enter the special code SAVEONBOOKS in the Discount Coupon Box of the online checkout at www.magicfact.com and we will automatically deduct the 25%. If you place your order by phone, toll free at 800 874 7400, just mention the special code, SAVEONBOOKS, and we will deduct the 25%. You can also place your order by FAX at 781 395 2034 or by email at magicfact@aol.com. No matter how you place your order, just mention the special code and save 25% on all the books!
Now, it’s time to check out this week’s Hotlist.
Dragon Mirror Box: Thanks to magic designer Angelo Carbone's creative thinking, you can now make your productions much more magical and deceptive. The mirror actually disappears, for an ultra-innocent production!
When the front door is opened you see a completely empty box. The door is then closed and when re-opened the box is filled with many silks or other items. What makes this Mirror Box so unique is that you can open the side doors and top door as well to pull out silks from each of the four openings. All that is left is an empty box and no mirror to be seen. This will certainly fool those who know the classic principle.
Dimensions of box: 9" x 9" x 9". Base: 11.25" x 13.25" x 2.5".
$199.95 (60.1518)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9405&cat=0&page=1)

Branded - The Painless Card Blister - Tim Trono:
Show a painful looking blister on your thumb from your last attempt at this hazardous stunt. Someone selects a card and concentrates on it while gazing into the flame of your lighter. You pinch the flame and the bubbling blister magically morphs into the configuration of their card. In other words, the image of their thought appears fried into the flesh of your fingertips--seared into your sizzling skin - Branded!
This gimmick takes over where the other gimmicks left off. It’s now a very practical, easy, no-nonsense method that happens in the open, with nothing to hide! No more pocket management. No more public displays of affection. No more unwanted glances.
With Branded, you’ll leave the room in a blaze of glory!
Includes:
Instructional DVD.
Precision-made Gimmick.
Downloadable Instructions in Japanese, French, and Spanish.
Advantages:
No pocket work. New design of realistic numbers and pips.
Includes gimmicks for both regular and mini Bic Lighters.
$49.95 (30.1331)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9408&cat=0&page=1)

Hoppity Hip Rabbits – Joe Porper: Joe Porper, known the world around for his originality and unequalled craftsmanship, offers a new paddle for the close-up worker!
Show a beautifully-made black anodized paddle with a very cute picture of a bunny, on a red background.
First the bunny is on a red background on both sides of the paddle. In a wink, the bunny is on a yellow background on both sides of the paddle. Huh? Just when they think they have it figured out (could there be a bunny on a red background on one side and a bunny on a yellow background on the other side?) the bunnies change into a not-so-scary looking wolf!
Based on the classic Hippity Hop Rabbits, made in the quality you have come to expect from Joe Porper, and fully examinable at the end! A great trick to carry with you all the time. $64.00 (10.1451)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9406&cat=0&page=1)

RISE – Dr. Schwartz: Way back in the 1950’s there was a very clever card trick called FLIP. It used a deck with two sets of holes drilled through, one set on the top and one set on the bottom of the deck. A pencil was thrust into one of the sets of holes and, as the pencil was rotated, the selected card flipped out of the deck!
Turn the clock ahead a mere 58 years, and Dr. Schwartz has dramatically improved the original effect, now using only one set of holes and a completely different method!
The deck of cards with a hole running top to bottom through one side is handed to a spectator to shuffle.
A card is freely selected. No force of any kind.
Remove a pencil from your pocket and show how the pencil freely passes thru the hole in the selected card. Replace the selected card in the deck and give the deck a bunch of cuts.
Now, push the pencil through all the holes. The deck remains suspended from the pencil.
Command the selected card to rise from the deck. A quick upward motion and card has risen from the deck!
The deck and pencil can be handed out for immediate examination. They will find nothing!
The method for RISE is absolutely diabolical. A method that has never been used before! Really easy to do. You will love it! $29.95 (30.1333)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9412&cat=0&page=1)

The Modern Con Man - Todd Robbins:
How to Get Something For Nothing
For years, con men have gotten fat scamming unsuspecting marks for food, shelter, money and from time to time, even clothes, while the rest of us suffer our honest lives in the quiet desperation. Isn't it about time we got in on all the fun?
In The Modern Con Man, entertainer extraordinaire Todd Robbins, with a little help from his Modern Conman Collective, explains the valuable tricks of his venerable trade-from simple bar bets (the Hoboken Bottle Cap bet) to can't-lose card tricks (the Poseidon). Whether it's winning fifty bucks, scoring seats closer to the fifty-yard line, or finagling a free meal, this one-of-a-kind collection of cons, bar bets, card games, and general chicanery ensures aspiring scam artists everywhere will always come out on top.
Filled with humorous facts and tables, a glossary of con terms, illustrations, the history of the con, and easy-to-follow swindles, The Modern Con Man is a hilarious and endlessly entertaining collection of safe, fun, and mostly legal cons for the natural-born prankster in all of us.
Pages 227 - Hardcover with dust jacket. $16.95 (BK01579)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9414&cat=0&page=1)

Dark Vision – Richard Osterlind: An advanced Eyeless Vision system for the working professional!
Imagine your head completely covered by a black cloth hood that has been verified by an audience member as being completely opaque. Then, imagine performing any number of sightless vision miracles, limited only by your imagination, including the Blindfold Drive, a legendary feat of paranormal ability and performed by the greatest mentalists in history.
This is what the Dark Vision system will enable you to accomplish. Designed from the ground up and fashioned to be used with the Osterlind Stainless Steel Blindfold or on its own, Dark Vision will convince your audiences that you have the ability to see using only the power of your mind. The Dark Vision system consists of the very special hood, each one hand-made by Sandra Sisti and made from the same quality materials and exacting specifications as the S.O.S. Bag, and a booklet written by Richard Osterlind that not only explains the minute details of handling Dark Vision with the Stainless Steel Blindfold and also by itself, but also invaluable tips on how to create and perform a large-scale publicity stunt such as a Blindfold Drive.
There have been many gimmicked blindfolds and hoods on the market over the years…but none of them have offered the versatility, craftsmanship, ease of use or sheer mental power of Dark Vision. $59.95 (40.632)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9413&cat=0&page=1)

Jumbo Color Changing Chinese Coin: Show a Black Jumbo Chinese coin to the audience.
Cover it for an instant with a Jumbo playing card (Use your own Jumbo card).
When you remove the card, the coin has become Red.
Cover it again, the coin has turned Blue!
Everything can be examined immediately by the audience.
For the “Professional Routine,” show both sides of the Black Jumbo Chinese coin that you are holding in your hand. Rub the coin in your hand, and both sides turn Red. After rubbing it again, both sides of the coin become Blue!
Perfect for parlor or close-up. Extremely easy to do. Includes instructional DVD. $59.95 (20.385)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9407&cat=0&page=1)

Linked - Richard James:
The spectator selects a card.
You tear out the center of the card. The spectator writes their initials on the center piece and keeps it.
Take any wine or champagne glass and slam the card at the glass. The card links onto the stem! You can see it spinning round.
The spectator holds the top and bottom of the glass. You pull the card off the glass, the center fits and they keep the card!
Visually stunning.
Richard James is revealing his secrets of the magic that has celebrities & audiences mesmerized!
Comes complete with gimmick and instructional DVD. $49.95 (30.1332)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9409&cat=0&page=1)

Zero Gravity - Jay Sankey:
The ideal opening effect. Walk up to a group and suspend a deck of cards, borrowed wallet, borrowed cell phone, pretty much any small object on the very end of a folded dollar bill (the visual is insane) and then immediately hand everything out -and your hands are empty.
You can even borrow the bill! The same effect can also be done with a folded paper napkin, a take-out menu, whatever. Comes with gimmick and instructional DVD. $25.00 (10.1452)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9410&cat=0&page=1)

Doves 101 Starter Kit - Andy Amyx:
Andy Amyx presents the Complete Beginner's Dove Magic Package. This comes with everything you will need to perform amazing dove magic! Make no mistake about it, the items in this package are the same that working professionals use and pay a lot of money for separately.
You will get:
* Doves 101 DVD
* 2 Pro Dove Pockets
* 1 Ultra Quick Release Dove Holder
* 1 Invisible Dove Harness
* 1 Spool of Pro Dove Wire $155.00 (60.1519)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9415&cat=0&page=1)

Assumption Swindle - Jack Tillar:
Jack Kent Tillar, the creator of the classic Blister Effect, now presents an incredible new concept that every working mentalist will find a use for in their repertoire. This is one of the most ingenious and versatile principles in mentalism. It requires no stooges, no peeks, no electronics, and no gimmicks. It enables the performer to create unforgettable miracles.
Here are just a few examples:
* Six participants freely choose a lottery number and each writes it down on a slip of paper. A seventh participant holds the slips and serves as a judge. The performer proceeds to reveal each number that was written down and the judge verifies that each number called out is among the slips!
* The audience secretly writes down three unusual actions for the performer to do on stage. Using muscle reading while blindfolded, the performer is able to accomplish these tests!
* The performer is able to reveal the total of all the serial numbers of several bills held by audience members!
Part 1 of this book explains this effect and explores a variety of other effects using this principle as it can be applied to playing cards, serial numbers on bills, coupons, drawings, words, places, trading cards, and many, many other items that are limited only by one's imagination.
Part 2 explores ways to accomplish an essential technique in mentalism.
Part 3 will inspire and teach you to create mental and magical originalities that will fit your audience, your abilities and your own particular personality!
Pages 122 – Softbound $45.00 (BK01578)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9416&cat=0&page=1)

Loaded - Kenny Roberts:
Introducing a game of "Russian Roulette," offer to demonstrate the talents and skills used by the security industry to assess risks and dangerous situations.
The spectator is shown six cards, numbered 1 – 6, and told that they represent the chambers in a six shot revolver. They are then asked to freely select any number and that will be the chamber in which the "live bullet" will be loaded.
With the cards in full view at all times you are able to produce a card from your wallet, which has also been in full view, that identifies the exact number chosen.
But wait, there's more. Turn over all the numbered cards to show they are blank. But, when you turn over the spectator’s chosen card it shows a picture of a smoking gun.
For the first time, Kenny reveals the workings behind his signature effect.
Including an extra variation of the routine with a hilarious punch that hits not once, not twice but three times. Leaving your spectators bewildered, astonished and a little frightened.
Loaded is a very strong mentalism effect that can be performed as close up, cabaret or even on stage.
Quick reset. Stunning mental effect. Easy to learn.
Comes complete with instructional DVD, high quality Z-fold wallet, 2 envelopes and 14 full color, laminated cards. $59.95 (40.631)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9411&cat=0&page=1)

And, that’s every single amazing new item that graces our Hotlist this week. Some really cool items, for sure.
I hope that you will find some time to spend with us either online at www.magicfact.com or in person in our deliciously delightful showroom at 102 North Street in Medford. Either way, we love the company!
Hank Lee

Check Out The Clearance Section!

Greetings from all of us at Hank Lee’s Magic Factory. It’s school vacation week here in Boston, and what an absolutely beautiful week it has been! Bright sunshine. Balmy temperatures. Red Sox winning like there’s no tomorrow. It’s all good.
Lucas took advantage of the time off from school to take a quick trip to Oberlin College. He wanted to take a lesson with a couple of the voice professors, check out the dorm rooms, take a shower in the co-ed bathroom and just generally see what life is like at the college. He came back with glowing reports, and has decided (I believe) that Oberlin is his choice for September. Bonnie and I are very pleased, as Oberlin has a wonderful reputation, on both the academic side and the conservatory side. He will have a fabulous four years. Right now, we are planning a major bank heist to pay for the first year’s tuition. You’ll read about it in the newspaper, I’m sure. Nothing better than buying a new Lexus every year for four years. Better make that a Mercedes S Class, as Aron is going to be in school as well. And, I thought diapers were expensive. Buy more magic, please.
For those of you with eagle eyes, you will notice a new Category in the Category list of the online catalog at www.magicfact.com. The Clearance Category. After more than 30 years in business, there are some items that we find ourselves really overstocked with. These are good items that we just happen to have a ton of. So, we have reduced the price on these items by a lot, some of them as much as 40%. Check these items out. The savings really is mind-boggling on all of them. Buy several and give them as gifts or bring them to the club meeting for an auction. At this price you, can’t afford not to buy some!
Now, let’s take a look at this week’s excitement!
The Quik-Sale continues until Saturday night, but then it’s FREE SHIPPING: Until Thursday the 1st of May at midnight, we are offering free ground shipping on any order over $25.00 to anywhere in the US, including Alaska and Hawaii! Just enter the special code SHIPMEFREE in the Discount Coupon Box at the bottom of the first page of the online checkout at www.magicfact.com. We will happily pick up the ground shipping charges on your order. Of course, if you want your order sent Fedex Three Day (Express Saver), Second Day or Next Day, you will just have to pay the difference. Note: Your email confirmation from our online system will still list the shipping as free, but we will charge the difference when we ship your order. Overseas customers will save as well! We will pay one-half of the Air Post shipping charges on your orders until the 1st! Just remember to enter the special code SHIPMEFREE in the Discount Coupon Box, or let the person taking your phone order know when you
place your order at 800 874
7400.
Now, let’s take a look at this week’s Hotlist!

Matrix: Mickael Chatelain’s latest, Matrix, will knock your socks off!
The effect is straightforward and visual. Using a single Bicycle card with four holes punched in it, you present the classic Matrix effect.
Under your control, the holes move around the card and finally gather in one spot. The card is then handed out for examination! Unbelievable, to say the least
* Visual, self-working and totally amazing
* Presented on television by Bernard Bilis
* A new principle, never before used in this type of effect.
Comes complete with performance and instructional DVD. $84.95 (30.1329)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9398&cat=0&page=1)

Electronic Psychic Die: The large three inch colorful die fits into a beautiful black ebony case. Spectators choose any number on the die, place it into the case with that number up and close the box.
You are out of the room while this is done and yet you are instantly able to reveal the chosen number!
You do not handle the black box. No vibrations. All done quickly and efficiently. Know the number within seconds!
In the 1960s the famous Anverdi Die Box was ahead of its time. Since then, there have been several versions of this great effect on the market, but none at such reasonable price as this one!
Easy to carry and easy to perform. Great for trade shows as well as close-up. You will have fun with this one! Color of die may vary from one featured in this photo.
$475.00 (40.629)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9391&cat=0&page=1)

Bikers – Gordon Bean: A packet trick that actually makes sense!
Have you ever looked at the Joker in a Bicycle deck? I mean really looked—close enough to see that the royal figure out for a ride isn’t just any royal figure; he’s the King of Spades.
Based on this observation, the effect of Bikers is crystal clear and progressively more amazing.
Four Jokers are slowly displayed, and then, one after the other, three of them “get off their bikes,” transforming into Kings as the cards are openly spread between the magician’s hands. As a climax, the last change occurs in the spectator’s hand, leaving a fully examinable card.
Legitimately using only four cards, the method allows each card to be shown front and back, and requires only basic sleight of hand.
Finally, like everything from Gordon Bean—including his last release, the best-selling Entourage—this is designed for the real world, not just a static video camera. No table is needed, no cards are stuck together, and the reset is automatic. As a bonus, there are multiple handlings for finishing with four examinable cards.
Also included is Gordon’s last-minute creation Seven Kings, an eye-popping transposition between kings and jokers that ends with four examinable kings on the spectator's palm. Fully described in a special insert, Seven Kings is tailored for the walk-around performer, combining high impact with total reliability and instant reset. It also has the advantage of requiring no false counts, and only a bare minimum of card handling ability.
Comes complete with all necessary cards custom printed by the U.S. Playing Card Company. $20.00 (30.1328)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9396&cat=0&page=1)

Long Salt Pour: Roy Benson, Fred Kaps, Jeff Hobson, and Jerry Andrus have all been inspirations to the Long Salt Pour. You not only two beautifully made long pour salt gimmicks, one large and one small, but you also get Reed McClintock's creative take on this classic effect.
Reed McClintock's Sands of Time
Begin by telling a story about once being a watch repairman and luckily enough you still have your repair kit. Remove your watch for all to see, placing it in your hand and pulling a hammer out of your kit. Act as if you're going to smash your hand, but explain that it's just a joke. Squeeze the hand that's holding the watch and a rush of sand falls to the floor. Reach into your pocket to stop the flow and then pull your hand out to show it empty.
A seemingly endless flow of sand is now pouring out of your other hand. Once the sand stops pouring you show your hands empty. Then, use the hammer as a wand, waving it over your arm. Pull your sleeve back to show the watch has reappeared on your wrist. Accept your applause and show both hands empty. One final time, sand pours out of both hands. You take another bow as you show your hands completely empty again. $225.00 (60.1517)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9402&cat=0&page=1)

Eject – Mathieu Bich:
The magic happens by itself...literally!
A card is freely selected and placed back into the deck. The magician places the deck onto the table. After a few magic words, the deck ejects a single card - the signed card!
The routine can be done by staying away from the deck of cards. There is no connection between you and the cards. Easy to do! Many routines shown for various effects. $28.00 (30.1330)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9400&cat=0&page=1)

Blindfolded Car – Devin Knight:
Are you ready to take your magic to the next level? Enhance your magic with one of the most amazing publicity stunts every created. The Blindfold Car Drive is unsurpassed for getting front-page publicity.
This isn’t your normal blindfold drive. Not only do you drive a car blindfolded, but the windshield is covered with newspaper! People may suspect you could see through a blindfold, but how can you drive with the windshield covered? You can even have a reporter ride in the car with you and have no clue as to how you are driving the car!
This new book by Devin Knight, an the early innovator of the Blindfolded Car, reveals all the secrets he has used to garner millions of dollars worth of free publicity.
Four different methods are revealed! How to drive a car with its windshield painted solid black. How to drive a car with a sunshade over the windshield blocking the view. Two ways to drive a car with cardboard or newspaper taped over the windshield!
The Speedway Drive is taught. Learn how to drive a car with its windshield covered at speeds up to 70MPH around a speedway. This stunt can be sold to a speedway as a pre-race event for hundreds of dollars.
Some of these secrets have baffled the smartest minds in magic. Some have never appeared in print before and many of these secrets are revealed for the first time. Devin holds nothing back and reveals how to do this. This book covers all the legalities of doing this.
Not only is this a great publicity stunt, but this book shows you how to get paid hundreds of dollars for doing it! The book is full of tips and ideas for adding comedy. The handcuff drive is fully explained in the book, adding an element of danger to any blindfold drive.
The Blindfolded Car feat appears totally impossible, but you will learn the secrets just by reading this book. Even if you never do the feat, the secrets will fascinate you and add to your magic knowledge. No gimmicks. No electronic devices. No special car needed.
Bonus Effect: Stopping a car with your mind. Learn Devin’s secret of letting a reporter drive your car and causing the car’s engine to stall just by concentrating. And you can make another car passing you stall in the road. The secret is ingenious.
8.5 x 11 comb-bound book with 43 pages full of illustrations detailing everything you need to know. Please note these feats should only be done on closed roads, fairgrounds and parking lots. Never on open highways.
Sold for educational purposes only. Use this information at your own risk.
Learn to drive the way Bonnie has been driving for years! $29.95 (40.630)

“I found this book to be fascinating as it gives the reader a feeling about what the real work in such feats is like. It is real, nitty gritty stuff. If you are a serious mentalist, it is something you should have in your library. You never know when you may need this information. The practicality of these feats should open your mind up to similar mentalism effects. I do recommend this book highly.” - Richard Osterlind
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9393&cat=0&page=1)

Rainbow Deck With Instructional DVD: The most fantastic deck of cards ever made.
For years professional performers “in the know” have spent over $100 per deck in search of the perfect Rainbow Deck: a poker sized, white bordered deck with 52 completely different back designs. Yet, a quality deck has never been available until now!
Imagine the look on your audience's faces when the apparently normal deck you have been using is ribbon spread to reveal 52 different colored back designs in an explosion of breathtaking color and beauty!
Printed and produced by the U.S. Playing Card Company on genuine Bicycle stock, this deck has no equal in shock value and color.
A knockout closing routine that cannot be followed
The deck is poker-size, has genuine Bicycle faces and white borders.
Comes complete with an instructional DVD. Perfect for any color-changing deck routine! $39.95 (30.484)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=1432&cat=0&page=1)

C3B (Bounce No Bounce Colored Balls) - Akira Fujii:
Show three colored balls.
The balls are thrown onto the table one by one. Each bouncing ball is caught by your opposite hand.
Ask the spectator to do the same thing. However, when it comes to the last ball, he cannot catch it! It doesn’t bounce, it just lays on the table!
* Spectator can practice several times.
* At the end, both of your hands are empty.
* Colored balls specially made in Japan. $18.00 (10.1450)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9403&cat=0&page=1)

Timecard – Gordon Bean: Gordon Bean has become known for his classic packet tricks, starting with The Limited Edition and extending all the way up to Entourage, one of the best-selling items of recent years. With Timecard—his first marketed full deck trick in over a decade—Gordon has come up with an effect that will be talked about long after its performance:
The magician locates a selected card—and then reveals that a freely named time is written on its back!
The conditions are formidable:
1) The card is selected in a very fair manner, with spectators having the chance to change their minds as many times as they like before settling on a choice.
2) The time is selected by simply being named, with no force used—or even possible.
3) The time may be chosen before the card, or the card before the time—it works either way.
4) The writing on the back of the card is large and bold, seemingly with no explanation as to its appearance.
5) Backs and fronts of the rest of the deck are visible throughout the routine.
Finally—and most importantly—this is a method designed for the real world:
1) Automatic reset
2) No table needed; perfect for walk-around, yet suitable for stage work.
3) Long-lasting. (No rough and smooth.)
4) No sleight of hand or memory work.
5) Professionally manufactured from standard Bicycle brand playing cards.
$30.0 (30.1327)

The trick is fantastic – just the coolest thing. I’m going to do it in my shows at the bar. Bravo, bravo! - David Regal
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9395&cat=0&page=1)

Frank Chapman: The Elegant Phantom CD - Frank Chapman:
* Over 300 pages of material!
* More than 200 effects
* The complete 24 issues of Chap’s Scrapbook
* Nine Chapman booklets including his nail-writer work and stellar close-up routines
* Fifty Chapman articles from Genii magazine
* Fifteen Chapman routines from magic journals
* Chapman's manuscript on the bill tube
* Biography of Frank Chapman
* Convenient PDF format on CD
* Indexed for easy access
* A must for the close-up magician!
Early close-up innovator Frank M. Chapman (1901-1954) published some of magic's most stylish close-up publications in the 1930s, including his charming magazine Chap's Scrapbook, which featured top-flight material by names like Charlie Miller and Nate Leipzig. His pioneering work with nail writers and thumb tips were a highlight of the classy little booklets he self-published.
William W. Larsen called Chapman "one of the finest magicians of the ages." Now you can find out why.
This CD features more than 200 close-up and stage effects, with reproductions of the complete file of Chap's Scrapbook, several privately published booklets, fifty of his "Chap's Corner" Genii columns, his premium booklets for the public, and over 15 effects from magazines. You will be enchanted by the style of his works and the practicality of the effects you will find here! $29.95 (CD0059)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9392&cat=0&page=1)

Wild Poker Trick – Boris Wild: The improved, Texas Hold ‘Em version of Very Wild!
An amazing, visual and magical transformation that will leave your audience speechless!
Five cards are shown to your audience. They represent your poker hand - and a poor one, at that. With a deft turn of the wrist and a snap of the fingers, the mis-matched cards instantly and visibly change into the winning hand - a Royal Flush in Spades!
Easy to do, no sleights required. A very clean, direct effect from FISM card champion Boris Wild. Included is a DVD with step-by-step instructions from Boris himself, and all the necessary cards printed on Bicycle stock from the U.S. Playing Card Company. $14.95 (30.1326)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9394&cat=0&page=1)

The Adventures of Winston Freer CD:
Long-lost impossibilities from magic's genius inventor
Winston Freer (1910-1981) was one of magic's cleverest inventors. Current innovators like Gaetan Bloom consider him a genius and a hero. U. F. Grant said Freer was fifty years ahead of the rest of the magic world.
In this collection of rare material, you will learn some of Winston Freer's most famous secrets: freezing ice in his bare hand, his no-key Linking Rings, his uncanny rope methods, growing a real tree by magic, and other impossibilities.
The Adventures of Winston Freer collects 200 pages of material with 50 effects, combining Freer's booklets and articles, an incredible collection of his letters, memorabilia, news items, sketches, and notes to provide an unprecedented look at this brilliant creator. You'll even see a brief video of Freer performing his suspension in 1941! This CD will reveal the man behind some of the most daring and creative magic of our time. $30.00 (CD0061)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9397&cat=0&page=1)

And, wowie wow wow, that’s all of this week’s hot stuff! Lots of great magic for you to choose from. Lots of ways to help us pay next semester’s tuition. By the way, we really aren’t going to rob a bank, so don’t get worried, OK?
As always, I am hoping upon hope that you will find some time to spend with us either online at www.magicfact.com or in person at our still shiny and new showroom at 102 North Street in Medford. Either way, we love the company.
Hank

Is That A Box Of Matzoh I See?

Greetings from all of us at Hank Lee’s Magic Factory. Spring is definitely in the air! The trees are budding, the daffodils are in bloom, the temperature is hovering in the low 50’s. It’s the reason we put up with the hideous New England winters. So that we can enjoy the delightful New England spring. It’s a big price to pay, but on days like today it does seem worth it.
On the home front, Lucas is getting closer to making his college decision, every day. He was accepted at nine of the ten schools at which he auditioned. Only Boston University decided that they didn’t want Lucas. What’s the old saying about being a prophet in your own home town? Anyway, he is leaning towards Oberlin College. They have a wonderful classical voice program. And, the fact that the school is located exactly in the middle of nowhere (I’m sure I will hear about this) reduces the distraction factor and gives the kid a better chance to concentrate on his work. Of course, it’s not in stone yet, but we are getting closer by the day.
Aron is just about finishing up this semester in Gainesville, and will be home in about 10 days. I am really looking forward to spending some time with my elder son. I might even get us some tickets to a Red Sox game. Did I mention the Red Sox? In first place at the moment, even with a yet-to-be-hitting David Ortiz. Could this be another pennant year? Too early to tell (yes). It’s a long season (yes).
Our good friend Mike Maione has been taking “official” photos at the Conclave for the past few years. Great photos, for sure! If you would like to enjoy a slideshow of this year’s Conclave, just click here, or go to this link:
(http://www.hanklee.org/conclave2008.mov).
It’s a big file, so be patient, OK?
I am going to cut this a little short this week, as I am about to locate the hammock and get it set up so I can enjoy the lovely weather.
And now, to this week’s excitement.
DVD GIVEAWAY: This week it’s a plain old giveaway. You got it. A DVD Giveaway! For the next seven days, from right now until Thursday, April 24th, at midnight, you have the opportunity to get DVDs for free! But, you have to get them the old fashioned way. You have to earn them.
Here's the way it works. For every order of $100 or more, you get one free DVD (your choice of any single DVD that sells for $35.00 or less). If you spend $200 or more, you get two free DVDs (again, your choice). $300 or more gets you three free DVDs. And on it goes. The more you buy, the more you get for free! It's an incredible deal when you figure that the average price of a DVD is $35.00! In order to claim your free DVD, just put the name of the DVD in the Customer Notes Box at the bottom of the second page of the online checkout (after you fill in your name, address, etc.) at www.magicfact.com. If you phone your order in to our toll free number at 800 874 7400, just let the order-person know what free DVD you want. If you FAX the order to us at 781 395 2034, same thing. Just let us know which ones you want. Remember, the giveaway ends on Thursday, April 24th, at midnight!

Now, let’s take a peek at this week’s Hotlist!
Combustible Ashtray: Another brand new one from Rick Haslett, and you are going to have all kinds of fun with this one!
The Combustible Ashtray will ignite flash cigarettes, flash paper, flash bills, flash cotton.
Just place the paper in the ashtray, and, on your command at any time, without touching the ashtray, the paper will go up in a flash!
Totally silent in working. So simple to use. $79.00 (10.1449)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9387&cat=0&page=1)

Puzzle Paradox - Larry Becker and Lee Earle:
Show two 11 x 14 inch jigsaw puzzles; one is fully assembled in a thin poster frame and the other is still boxed. "One of the reasons jigsaw puzzles are - well, puzzling - is that they often use a picture that provides one set of patterns, cut into completely random shapes formed by yet another pattern. Most folks solve such puzzles through a process of elimination: they assemble the straight edged, outside pieces into a 'frame' and then work their way toward the middle. Some puzzle addicts find it more challenging to assemble the puzzle face down."
Shake the pieces inside the box, then open it for everyone to see the assortment of pieces inside. "Each of you take one piece, please," offer to three nearby participants, "and do your best to memorize its unique shape."
Taking another piece from the box and handing it to the first participant for comparison, you instruct, "Cup them in your hands and mix them. It will still be simple to pick out your piece because there are but two choices." Retrieve them from the helper and toss them back into the box.
Approaching the next person, you withdraw three or four more pieces from the box and hand them to that helper, saying, "Now you try it. It gets tougher with more pieces, yes? Although I suppose with fewer than half a dozen different shapes, it's still fairly easy." Those pieces are also returned to the box.
For the third helper you say, "Toss your piece back into the box." Give the pieces a shake and hold the lidless box for the participant to view the contents, "Your challenge is more complex; with a 250 piece puzzle, the odds against you finding your piece on the first try are 249 to 1."
"Unless," you remind, "you have assembled that puzzle so many times it's burned into memory, as I have with this one." Place the lid on the box, hand it to helper #3 and instruct, "Give the pieces a good shaking, please, then lift the lid just enough to take just one piece, hidden in your hand. Don't take a right angle corner piece - there are only four of them. Find an inside piece with no straight sides; there are more of those."
When the piece has been removed you set the box aside and say, "When I'm ready, hold up that piece, with the back side toward me, as I count to three. Understood? (Yes.) Go! One..two..three. Got it!"
Pick up the assembled puzzle, move his finger back and forth just above the surface as you view the shapes, stop over one of them, pry it from the puzzle, and say, "This is it. I'm positive."
"If you just compared the pieces, not everyone could see the result. Instead, try your piece for fit where I made the hole." The selected puzzle piece slips easily into place - a perfect match!
Here are the details that will drive you nuts: The puzzle box and frame are totally ungimmicked. There are no switches. Every piece taken is freely selected. When the participants compare their pieces there is no question that each is a truly different shape. You employ no sleights or moves and no memorization is needed. Nothing else is used, added, or taken away (ie: no plastic baggies, etc!). You get both custom made puzzles (one is fully assembled in the frame and the other is in the box) plus complete presentation instructions.
Puzzle Paradox is as clean as clean can be from the guys who originated the concept.
$149.50 (60.1516)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9388&cat=0&page=1)

Radio Control Table: Rick Haslett has done it again! The RC Table is truly a mentalist's dream!
This table will allow you to perform numerous PK effects with the press of a handheld remote control. The table can be examined with no chance of detection.
Comes with a small pedestal that will ignite, at your control, flash paper, flash cotton, flash bills, etc. It will even pop a balloon.
The table allows you to perform many PK effects that you already own by remote control!
This is a real beauty, and we are so pleased that Rick has given Hank Lee’s Magic Factory the exclusive on the RC Table, which means you will find it here and nowhere else!
$749.00 (40.626)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9380&cat=0&page=1)

Twister - Jay Sankey:
Unlike most key bend handlings, with Twister the just-examined key stays in full-view before, not just before and after the bend, but even during the bend! The audience actually gets to see the key bend without any cover and then you can immediately hand it out. No switching!!
You can even have the key initialed by a spectator and still do the incredible bend! Even crazier, A spectator can actually take hold of the head of the key and twist it a full 90-degrees! And again, you can hand it right out, no switching!
Twister comes complete with a specially machined gimmick and an exciting full-length instructional DVD featuring several different handlings including: -The Two-Handed Twist -The Nail Twist -Mike Skutt's Presentation -The One Hand Switch -The Spectator Twist -You'll even learn several ways to untwist the key! Also, because Twister features the same design of key as the best-selling Killer Key effect, the two make for an outstanding combination! $30.00 (40.628)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9389&cat=0&page=1)

"Over the years I've performed several different bent key routines and handlings under real world conditions, but I keep coming back to Twister. It's super practical, great on angles, extremely easy and crazy visual!"
- Jay Sankey

Telethought Wallet – Chris Kenworthey: Want to leave your audience shaken, but not stirred? Desirous of creating a “Bond” with them? Now, you can take your magic to the extreme with Chris Kenworthey’s Telethought Wallet.
Imagine a spectator is invited to think of any word, symbol, picture, number, etc. She writes it on a card. The card is inserted into a sleek, black wallet, face down. Nothing is ever added or taken away. And there are no moves! Remember, without any moves at all, without withdrawing anything from the wallet, one hundred percent of the spectator’s information is delivered secretly, ingeniously, and imperceptibly to the performer. The principle relies on state-of-the-art, cutting edge technology. (It literally is something “Q” would create for James Bond!)
The Gimmick:
The gimmick is in view throughout the entire performance, yet the audience doesn’t know it. It yields the complete information to the performer and yet is absolutely indetectable! Keep in mind there are no electronics, no impression devices, no flaps, no moves whatsoever and yet the performer gleans every one of the spectator’s thoughts every time - guaranteed!
The Telethought Wallet will fool you and everyone in the audience. It’s that good! Elicit the professional expertise of a leading, world class leather craftsman. Infuse the creative mind-bending sophistication for performing the impossible for which Chris Kenworthey is known. Complement all of this with the preeminent and extraordinary research of one of Fortune 500’s most advanced “think tanks” and the result is an effect that will leave your audience breathless, speechless, and clueless. This, dear friends, is the day the magic world will change ... forever.
The Telethought Wallet is inspiring to say the least! For those of you who truly desire iconic impact, your search is over.
Available in two sizes:
* Shirt Pocket (4.2” x 2.75”) $59.00 (40.627)
* Secretary Style (7” x 4”) $149.00 (40.627A)
Throw out every peek wallet you own. They’re “old school.” Usher in a new generation of thought detection with the revolutionary Telethought Wallet. If you truly desire Extra Sensory Deception then the Telethought Wallet is for you.
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9386&cat=0&page=1)

Magical Moments With Bob Swadling DVD - Volume 1:
Bob Swadling, one of the most talented and also one of the nicest people in magic, has been a professional close-up magician for 16 years. He has performed at The Magic Castle and on The Stars of Magic in Hollywood, on TV Specials in Japan and also in Europe. He has been an advisor and technical consultant on many TV shows. He has won many top awards and is the owner of Swadling magic. He invents, manufactures, and performs his own brand of close-up magic.
Tricks Performed and Explained
* Lucky Lady
* Face Change
* 52-1
* Coin Through Handkerchief - Double Deception
* Coffee Cup Capers - Power Pack
* It's Amazing - Power Pack - Double Deception
* Commercial Matrix
* Acrobatic Card - Power Pack
* Twister
* Sympathetic Matchboxes - Performance Only
* Cigarette Vanish
* Up Close with a Frog - Power Pack
* The Kristal Card Stab - Performance Only
$34.95 (DVD00866)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9383&cat=0&page=1)

Casino Cut Card - Thom Peterson:
More fun than a barrel of Pit Bosses!
(If that's what you're into)
The Magician shows the cut card. A cut card (you explain) is used to determine where to cut a deck of cards in blackjack. Three selections are made. One by one, the Casino Cut Card turns into each of the spectator's selections.
Looking cooler!
Lastly, the Casino Card is swiped along the remainder of the deck where...(Can you feel the tension?)...The card turns into a strange mish-mash of multiple cards - creating a sure-fire way to get kicked out of a casino!
A great, easy-to-do effect that instantly resets, and uses only one sleight. $24.95 (30.1325)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9381&cat=0&page=1)

Magical Moments with Bob Swadling DVD - Volume 2:
Following on the success of Volume 1, Bob has released this exciting Volume 2. Often referred to as The Best Kept Secret in Magic, Bob has been professional close-up magician for 16 years. He has performed at The Magic Castle and on The Stars of Magic in Hollywood, on TV Specials in Japan and also in Europe. He has been an advisor and technical consultant on many TV shows. He ahs won many top awards and is the owner of Swadling Magic. He invents, manufactures, and performs his own brand of close-up magic.
Tricks Performed and Explained
* Coin in Bottle
* Bob's "No Moves" Coin box
* Is it a Circle, or is it a Square? - Performance Only
* CONnoisseur's Three Shell Game
* Signed Cards to Wallet
* Fred Kaps' Homing Card - Performance Only
* Torn & Restored Card
* Aces to Pocket
* Ring of fire - Performance Only
$34.95 (DVD00867)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9385&cat=0&page=1)

Secrets Of The Octopus Deck Revealed - Bill Abbott:
Learn about the amazing deck that can manipulate, control & extract thoughts from absolute strangers! Bill Abbott’s Octopus Deck entertains audiences close-up and on stage and is now in an affordable Do-It-Yourself version!
The Octopus Deck Routine:
Begin by fanning the deck before two spectators and ask each of them to think of any card. After brief questions you instantly name the two freely thought of cards.
Wrapping rubber bands around the deck, you toss it to an audience member across the room and ask them to peek at any card. The deck is then passed to another person to do the same. Without any questions you name their selected cards.
Finally you ask two people to join you on stage. Removing the rubber bands from the deck you hand half the deck to each spectator and ask them to place the cards inside a pocket. The two spectators reach inside their pockets and remove any card and place it in another pocket, without looking at it. You write something on a piece of paper and hand it to an audience member. Both of the unknown cards, are removed and named out loud for the first time.
Your prediction is an exact match!
The Octopus Deck Details:
* The Octopus Deck can be freely shuffled by a spectator between each phase.
* There is no miscalling of the selected cards.
* The cards they see are the cards you name.
* Can be performed close-up and surrounded.
* Resets instantly for walk-around performances.
* The Octopus Deck is a complete mind reading act in 3 phases.
* The Octopus Deck can play to the largest audience, involving as many as 6 spectators in a single performance.
* Surefire and reliable so you get the right cards every time.
The Secrets of the Octopus Deck Revealed Package Includes:
Special cards made by The United States Playing Card Company in red-backed Bicycle cards. Complete details on how to construct your very own Octopus Deck in under two hours! The 21 page illustrated instructional booklet with detailed script with routines and ideas along with the complete history of the Octopus Deck researched & developed over the past 9 years. And as an outstanding bonus feature included is Bob Farmer's 'Fishing For Octopus' pumping system designed for the Octopus Deck and Paolo Cavalli's 'Radarama' script & pumping sequence, also formulated just for the Octopus Deck!
Pages 21 - Saddle Stitched. $49.95 (BK01576)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9384&cat=0&page=1)

Cabaret Card Magic - Bill Abbott:
Have you ever dreamed of being a performer who can fill a room with personality, excitement and mystery, without resorting to a lot of props to do the filling? Does the idea of carrying a deck of playing cards in your pocket and having a limitless supply of entertainment options available to present to large audiences appeal to you? In this book, Bill Abbott reveals how to turn your card tricks into real magical experiences that can entertain and mystify large audiences. Proper selection of material, the effect of your performance environment on that material, as well as the use of stories and how to generate consistent applause are some of the tools Bill discusses in detail. Ultimately, what is revealed here is how to create commercial card magic for the stage. Bullet-proof performances that will work for any audience and in any environment. You already know that a deck of cards packs small. Now learn how to make it play big.
Contents
* Dedication
* Foreword
* Contents
* Cards On Stage
* The Princess & The Pea
* Pokerface
* The Last Romance of Diamond Jack
* EZ Action Ultra-Mental Deck
Pages 19 - Saddle Stitched. $24.95 (BK01574)
(http://www.hanklee.org/xcart/product.php?productid=9382&cat=0&page=1)

Praise for Bill Abbott's Cabaret Card Magic...
"As a professional magician for over 12 years, I am very picky when it comes to material selection for my act. Having read this booklet, I will be putting two of the routines directly into my show and I'm anxious to try out the third. Bill is a true artist. Whether it's an effect, a method or a presentation, Bill remains unsatisfied until he has created something truly unique. The routines in this booklet are a breath of fresh air for the stand-up performer. The effects are easy to do, the presentations are simple to carry out and their impact on a lay audience is HUGE! To top it all off, each routine is fully scripted, complete with all the lines, comedy, bits of business and psychology that makes each blockbuster routine play so well."
- Richard Sanders - from the Foreword

Foundations : The Art of Staging Magic - Eberhard Riese:
Although the art of magic does not only consist of tricks and technique, roughly 99% of all magic books mainly deal with these topics. "New" tricks, techniques and moves, those seen by the lay audience, upstage all the other, behind the scenes, backstage elements, which are equally if not more important to a successful presentation.
Eberhard Riese, director of many successful magic acts, recipient of the 2006 Creative Fellowship of The Academy of Magical Arts and for many years editor of the German magic magazine "MAGIE", puts his cards on the table: expounding his experience and his knowledge of all the "other" aspects of the creation and development of a magic act.
Beginning with the finding of an idea, he describes everything which is important: the designing of a stage figure, the equipment, the props and effects, the selection of music (or patter), the focus and plot of a presentation and much more. Numerous hints and tips which are really helpful to any artist aspiring to perform at their best!
Many examples are given from Riese's work in Stuttgart, so that one obtains a view into the working techniques used in the creation of many successful magic acts, among others those from Roxanne, Peggy Fox, Topas, Franklin, ChaPeau, Nils Bennett, Wave, Simon Pier