SOAPY SMITH BAGS BIG BUCKS FOR DAI VERNON FUND By Whit Haydn The School for Scoundrels held its second annual "Soapy Smith Night" at the Magic Castle in Hollywood, and it was a smash success with beautiful women and handsome men decked out in their finest 1890's costumes. The party was also a fund-raiser for the Dai Vernon Fund, a charitable fund for magicians administered by the Trustees of the Academy of Magical Arts. Over $2000 was raised for the Vernon Fund which benefits magicians undergoing financial hardship. Dai Vernon (beloved among magicians as "The Professor") was a big fan of Soapy's, having heard stories about him since he was a kid-Vernon was young when Soapy was shot-and had even arranged a meeting with the Smith family many years ago. Many thanks to entertainers Chef Anton at the pool table (table provided by Billiards and Barstools of Glendale www.billiardsandbar stools.com , and Rich Cowley at the WC Fields Bar. Whit Haydn performed in 19th century costume and character in the Palace of Mystery. Dave Bourne from the television series "Deadwood" (www.saloonpiano.com ) played authentic saloon piano, and also accompanied our lovely "Western Songbird," Brandy LaPlante (www.brandylaplante.com ), as she sang and danced for the enthusiastic crowd. Jeff Smith, the great grandson of Jefferson Randolph "Soapy" Smith, answered questions about Soapy, and there was an auction of Soapy memorabilia and School for Scoundrels products, as well as a number of great door prizes-including a "lucky chip" from Soapy's original grave marker. For more info on Soapy Smith, check out Jeff's site at www.SoapySmith.net . Larry Bitterman of Old Frontier Clothing, Jeff Smith and Peter Menyhart judged the costume contest. Prizes were awarded for most authentic, sexiest, and funniest costumes. Larry Bitterman is "the source" for authentic, hand-tailored Victorian clothes (www.OldFrontier.com ), and also donated a beautiful nineteenth century replica shirt to the winner of the "Most Authentic." Prizes were also donated by Magic Food& Beverage, Milt & Arlene Larsen, The Magic Hotel, and the School for Scoundrels. Thanks to Kym Hainley, Rob Zabrecky, Mark Nelson, Michael Gingras and Bob Busch for their generous contributions. And most of all, thanks to all of the Academy members and friends who came, contributed, and "drank a toast to Soapy's ghost!" For more information and photos, please visit the School for Scoundrels website at http://www.chefanton.com/scoundrelsstore/index.htm. Click here for more pictures of the event Save the date Sunday, October 9 dealers day

Previous Page

Next Page