Hey, I remember you...

Any of my friends will tell you that I can not go anywhere without running into someone I know. This past Saturday, my first night back at What if... in Hershey, I ran into two of my favorite people when I was in school. Having grown up in Hershey, it's really not that unlikely, but it was surprising when I saw Bonnie and Larry Casebeer sitting at the bar. Bonnie was my 7th grade science teacher and her husband Larry taught me driver's ed. (Yep, you have him to blame.) They really were some of my favorite people when I was in school, (and they still are.) You know, those few teachers that make learning fun. Larry was always a riot to hang around. And the Mrs.? Well, she's always been a knockout. I haven't seen them in a few years. While they have seen me perform a few times before, they are still very enthusiastic about watching me. After their dinner, I went behind the bar and performed a few of my favorite pieces for them. Larry laughed wildly, constantly asking "How the hell.....?" They live in the area, but it was their first time dining at What if.... Any of you in the area who haven't been there are really missing out. Stop in on a Saturday night, just make reservations first.

In keeping with the theme of this blog, entertainment, I thought I'd give my thoughts on a HIGHLY anticipated movie; Indiana Jones 4. It sucked. I won't waste any more of your time on the topic. On the other hand, I don't think I mentioned Iron Man when I saw it a few weeks ago. I loved it, one of the best super hero movies I've seen. Over the last few years Marvel has really got their stuff together and produced some WONDERFUL films. The 2003 Hulk movie was NOT a Marvel property. They obtained the rights back, and next month, the "reboot" will hopefully set things straight. Also of note this summer will be Get Smart, The Dark Knight, and The Happening. I'm sure I'll at least mention my thoughts on each one as it's released.

Now, something not really entertainment related. I have just learned of the story of Roz Savage. If anyone here does not know who this is, I urge you to check out her site, www.rozsavage.com, (there's a link on this page.) Roz is an ocean rower. Yep, that's right, she rows a boat across oceans; solo. She has already done the Atlantic, and as a write this, she is just beginning her trip across the Pacific. A very fascinating story, and a great inspiration. Her site contains her biography, philosophy on life, list of explorer's essentials, and GPS tracking of where she is right now. This is one of the coolest things I've read in a long time. Check it out.

And one more item. I'm in the early stages of planning my first trip to California. I'll be heading to L.A. in October. It looks like I'll be there for 3-4 days and staying in Malibu. I'd love to hear any suggestions people might have for stuff to do. There will be lots of magic and music during my trip, but since I've never been there, I'd love to try and maybe see a show taped or something fun like that. All suggestions welcome.

New venue!

It was fun while it lasted, but somehow I knew I wouldn't be there long. I am no longer performing at Texas Roadhouse. Their business has been dropping off, and let's face it, we knew I wouldn't last performing at a kid's night. But, there's good news too. I'm returning to a wonderful restaurant in my hometown of Hershey, PA. The food is marvelous and the atmosphere is great to match. Also, there's no country line-dancing, which is a good thing. Starting Memorial Day weekend, I'll be performing Saturday evenings at What If Cafe' on Chocolate Ave. in Hershey. All my friends in the area should stop by; but you might want to call for reservations.

Also, this Saturday, the 17th I want to invite all my friends in the area to Dragonfly nightclub. Local swingers Big Tubba Mista will be there. If you haven't seen these guys, do yourself a favor, and come on down.

Report from Vegas...

Well, it's been a week since I've been home, I should probably post a few pics and what not.

This skinny little punk is my pal Dan Sperry. Don't let his Marilyn Manson look fool you, he's a big pussycat. One of my favorite things about going to Vegas is hanging out with friends like Dan who I only see once or twice a year. If you're in town, catch him at The World's Greatest Magic Show.


This is Jason England. A VERY dangerous man with a deck of cards. The first night of the convention he gave a demonstration at midnight on crooked gambling techniques. Second deals, bottom deals, center deals; this guy does it all.


Jeff McBride, doing what he does best. I still wanna be like him when I grow up.



This was a real treat! Scott land is fantastic puppeteer. He brought a few of his creations including a VERY lifelike marionette of magician Carl Ballantine, (that did Carl's act!) and this guy, Helio the clown. Yes, Helio actually blew up and tied a balloon, and then floated away. Yes, of course you can see the strings, but you'd swear this thing had a pulse. For those of you who have seen the movie Team America World Police, you have seen Scott's work. Please check out the video on his website www.thepuppetman.com


The two sexiest people at the convention have dinner with Scott Sullivan. This is Kari Hendler. Writer, photographer, sushi aficionado, and one of my favorite people to hang out with. (She was totally into me, but Sullivan killed the mood.)

Just a few pics there. I really had a great time. For any people who read this and are interested in, the arts, or history, please check out the latest episode of our podcast The Magic Lantern. We talk to Kari about a very fascinating project she's been working on. You can find it on iTunes under The Magic Lantern podcast, or at www.reelsinmotion.tv