Dave Wong told us about his work with the security divisions of casinos. I guess some people will go to any level to cheat. Many of our members wanted to know about this prospect - or at least the questions were there.

Stephen is an appreciator of Houdini, who lived from 1874 through 1926. Houdini's father was a rabbi from Budapest. Houdini has become the signature word for magic. His many escapes from locked trunks when he was handcuffed are known to most of the world.

Houdini considered himself to be a spiritualist. He was famous for debunking charlatans that lived off folks who were in grief.

It is not in the history books, but a student from McGill University was the person who indirectly caused Houdini's death. It appears this student asked to see Houdini and brought in a student boxer. Houdini was lying on the couch and before he could tense his muscles the dimwit hit him twice in the stomach. This resulted, a week or so later, in Houdini's death.

Our members were thrilled and amazed at Stephen's skill. Ted Valentine was the super volunteer, as was Marco. Stephen was a quiet, considerate man who gave us a great programme. This occured on the eve of All Hallow's Eve.

reported by Don Axford