Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Jack Miller’s Linking Ring Routine


 Now available at www.magiciansmagicshop.com 

Dr. Tarbell himself called this the greatest work ever published on the Linking Rings, and for good reason. From one of magic’s most revered artists, this book finally reveals Jack Miller’s long-cherished secrets to the Linking Rings, making it an essential addition to any magician’s library.

This book is a masterclass in the art of the Linking Rings, providing you with everything you need to perform a polished, professional routine.

  • Ring Through Ring: Learn the seamless handling to link and unlink rings right before your audience’s eyes.
  • Ring Through Arms: Master the visually stunning effect of a solid ring penetrating your arm.
  • The Special Three-Ring Routine: Get Jack Miller’s signature routine, perfected over a lifetime of performance.

In addition to his famous Linking Rings instructions, you also get a separate chapter on ring and rope penetrations, giving you even more powerful, visual routines to add to your act.

With 36 printed pages, 92 photos, and 20 detailed drawings, this book provides the clear, comprehensive instructions you need to elevate your Linking Ring performance to the next level.

This Day in Magic History...



 On June 30, 1917, Harry Houdini filed the patent for his Diver's Suit, a safety escape device designed to help divers quickly free themselves underwater in an emergency. It shows Houdini's fascination with escape, engineering, and practical invention—not just stage performance.

Happy Birthday Harry Blackstone Jr!



 Today, June 30, marks the birthday of Harry Blackstone Jr., one of the greatest American illusionists of the 20th century. He was born on June 30, 1934, in Three Rivers, Michigan.

Some interesting facts you could include:

  • Son of legendary magician Harry Blackstone Sr..
  • Appeared in his father's show as an infant before eventually becoming a star himself.
  • Helped introduce a new generation to grand stage illusion through television and theater.
  • Famous for classics including the Floating Light Bulb, Buzz Saw, Vanishing Birdcage, and spectacular levitations.
  • Estimated to have produced more than 80,000 live rabbits during his career.
  • Passed away in 1997 but remains one of the most influential illusionists in magic history. 

Kevin Viner on Fool Us


 

Tomsoni & Co. (1977)


 

Monday, June 29, 2026

Michael Heckenberger to Become 110th President of the Society of American Magicians


 The Society of American Magicians (SAM) is preparing to welcome a new national leader as longtime magician Michael Heckenberger is set to be sworn in as the organization's 110th National President on July 4 in Appleton, Wisconsin.

The ceremony carries special historical significance, taking place in the city where legendary escape artist Harry Houdini spent much of his childhood. The installation also comes during the centennial year of Houdini's passing. Houdini himself served as National President of the Society of American Magicians from 1917 until his death in 1926, making the position one of the most respected roles in the world of magic.

Heckenberger's journey into magic began in his youth, where he enjoyed performing card and coin tricks during high school and college. After joining the U.S. Air Force, however, his passion for magic was put on hold while he focused on his military career.

That changed while he was stationed in Minot, North Dakota, in the late 1980s as a B-52 navigator. There he met another Air Force officer who was also an accomplished magician. The friendship reignited his love for the art, leading him to perform children's shows, entertain his squadron, and present magic programs at a local church.

After relocating to the Hampton Roads area in 1994, Heckenberger became active in the Williamsburg chapter of the Society of American Magicians, Baker-Temple Assembly 226. He joined the assembly in 2007 and was elected its president just two years later, serving in that role for more than a decade.

His leadership within the organization continued to grow. He became Virginia State Deputy for SAM in 2015, later serving as Regional Vice President before being asked to pursue national leadership—a decision that ultimately led to his election as National President.

Despite the honor, Heckenberger remains humble about his accomplishments.

"I was shocked because I'm just an amateur," he said. "I love magic, but I never imagined I'd be in this position."

As he prepares to lead one of the world's oldest and most prestigious magic organizations, Heckenberger says what has always inspired him is the joy that magic brings to others.

"Life can be difficult," he explained. "Magic gives people an opportunity to escape for a little while and experience something truly amazing."

Members of his home assembly in Williamsburg will travel to Wisconsin to witness the historic installation ceremony and celebrate one of their own reaching the highest office within the Society of American Magicians.

Source: Adapted from reporting by the Williamsburg Yorktown Daily.

Mac King on Fool Us


 

Doug Henning Biography: The Magician Who Brought Wonder Back to Magic

 Doug Henning was a groundbreaking Canadian magician, illusionist and escape artist who helped transform the public image of magic during th...