Happy New Year!

Don't let time slip by! Remember 2010 but look forward to a prosperous 2011! Here at FAB we have lots of irons in the fire, so to speak - with announcements forthcoming. You won't believe your eyes :)

Happy New Years from the entire staff at FAB Magic Company!

Flawless Foster - Neil Foster, Zombie King




Neil Foster's original act recordings

 

             These pieces of memorabilia are priceless!

Look What Just Arrived In The Shop Today! These original recordings are from the Neil Foster estate. The record albums are in immaculate condition. He was my 'magic hero' growing up and there was no one quite like Neil Foster - in my mind never will be.



We just had to share this with you!

We just had to share this with you. ! This is an 'unusual' Christmas Card from our good friend (and customer)  Ian Buckland in Australia.  The caption says it all :) Happy Holidays!



Merry Christmas & Happy New Year !

This is our final blog for 2010 and I want to personally thank all of our loyal customers for their business and most importantly, their friendship over this past year. To our employees, Al Littlejohn who is the finest woodworker in the area and can manufacture anything I ask of him. He has been with me for 8 years now and his expertise constantly amazes me. A big special thanks to Indra Sanford, our #1 Seamstress who has been a part of the FAB family for 6 years now. To Emmanuel Yoder our metal smith, to My Dear Friend Mark Davis who is always there to lend a hand whenever I need artwork. I cannot forget Krag & Carol Ryal who have become dedicated to this company and it's ideals. Their friendship and committment is second to none. Thanks to Cindy Conklin who steps in and helps out in the showroom and is always there when I need her. Thanks to my family - and to my mom and the memory of my dad who understood why I love magic and why it has become such a passion. To the residents of this community who I have come to know and love. I am watching Colon grow. With a new Downtown development plan and remodeling of our schools it is evidence that the future of this village is looking up and I am honored to be a part of it. We look forward to a prosperoous 2011 - It is shaping up to be an exciting time with new announcements coming after the first of the year.

God bless all of our troops here and abroad including my two boys who are serving in the Army and Navy. May they ALL know peace in the new year as well.

Happy Holidays!

Rick Fisher, president

FAB Magic Mfg. Company

Colon, Michigan

Colon, Michigan - Home For The Holidays

Merry Christmas from OUR family to YOURS!

Attack Of The Snow Bunnies!

Well, this kind of weather brings out the magical 'snow bunnies' all over town. They are popping up all over the place :) It's cold in Colon but it's Christmas every day in the magic capital of the world! Stay warm wherever you are!

Winter Wonderland In The Magic Capital

As you can see our rabbit 'mascot' is inside where it is nice and warm. It's been snowing here - that first magical snow of the season. It is light and fluffy and reminds me of a snow globe. Looking out over the village with all of the Christmas decorations hung it certainly makes one stop and reminesce of Christmas' past. All of the family and friends who aren't with us anymore. But, I also look to the future as well and to all of the wonderful friendships that will come with 2011. I hope you are taking some time to enjoy the holiday season with friends and family. It is a very special time indeed.

Past, Present & Future

This picture was taken this past summer. Where has the year gone? So much has happened. We moved the store across the street which was a major undertaking to say the least. But thanks to a lot of good friends and our employees who pitched in the transition was about as smooth as one could hope for.

So much to be grateful for. A customer said to me the other day "You are working too much !" I responded - "This isn't work! I am having the time of my life. " This is everything I ever dreamed of and then some.

I have so many people to thank - Cheryl and the kids have always been there and supported me even when I am sure they thought I was a little over the edge :)

To all of our employees - they have made this year a 'special' one for me. They have stood by me for the past 8 years and their allegiance to me and this company never wavered. It is their craftsmanship that makes this company look good. I couldn't have done it without them. As we make plans to expand our Colon location and venture into new cities in 2011 I sit back and look all that is around me. I am not only inspired but envision great things not only for this company but for Colon as well. Once again, I see a village that is thriving and taking advantage of it's existence as THE ONE AND ONLY Magic Capital Of The World! Stay tuned to these blogs and to our newest website http://www.colonmichigan.org/ which will uncover the fascinating stories of this unique town and it's history.

So, amid the hustle and bustle of the season please take a moment to look at your spouse, family and friends - give them a big smile :) - we are all in this together. Let's make each and every day a positive one! Happy Holidays!

8th Annual MagiCelebration August 3-6, 2011

Thanksgiving - Thanks To All Of You!

It's been a banner year here at FAB Magic and we have all of you to thank for your support. This is my favorite time of the year. No gifts to exchange - just good family times - and lots of memories.

From my family to your family I wish each and everyone of you a blessed and safe Thanksgiving Holiday.

Where To Put It All ?

Here is just a portion of the illusions and used magic that just came in. Whew! Trying to find a place to put it all - hopefully not for long :) - We have these illusions priced to sell. If you ever wanted a head chopper, Mirror penetration etc..etc..hmmmm I am sure I can find one around here!

Business has been brisk to say the least and I can't thank our customers enough for their loyalty. We have a BIG announcement forthcoming and ..nope..not even going to hint on this one :) - Guess you will just have to stay tuned!

In the meantime we are overhauling our http://www.colonmichigan.org/ site and lots of new info on Michigan Magic Day with our headliner Losander, Gene Anderson, Alan Smola and more! and of course MagiCelebration starring Silly Billy, Baffling Bill,
Kyle Jerard and more to come which can be seen at http://www.colonmichiganmagic.com/

So much going on here in our studios it's unbelievable! New products coming out just in time for Thanksgiving and a SALES SPECIAL I cannot even believe. We have partnered with American Express in bringing you a very special event on Saturday, November 27th...stay tuned!

Doug Henning - A Slice of Magic History

Here is my granddaughter Lily on our loading dock standing next to the Doug Henning 'Things Go Bump In The Night' that just arrived along with nearly a dozen illusions - of course I am thrilled to have it here and yes, it could be yours! It comes completely crated and ready to ship FOB Colon, Michigan. It is a unique piece of magical history and in very nice condition.

Maybe it's just me but I yearn for those wonderful tv specials and the big stage shows. Perhaps...just perhaps...those days will re-emerge once again...I can only hope :)

Check it out here along with other illusions.

Changing Seasons . . .

Where has the summer gone ? This is a view from my deck and for the first time in a long time I can see the St. Joe river. During the spring and summer I could only hear it's babbling sounds and the fish jumping. Now, the deer and wild turkey ( and a few fox) make their way into the backyard. After a long day at the shop it is nice to come home and relax with a cup of coffee and listen to ....well..nothing :) Only a five minute jaunt from the magic shop, this is my slice of heaven.

As we make preparations for the upcoming busy holiday season I have to remind myself that sometimes I need to slow down and enjoy what God and nature has given us. It's too easy these days to get lost in the internet, check our cell phone every hour, watch all of the satellite tv shows.

Now, where is that second cup of coffee :)

Coming Home :)

After tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, my oldest son, Lee, is on his way home :) I can't express into words how very proud we are of him. It's been a long journey and I know he will be glad to have his feet firmly planted on American soil. We are one of the lucky families who get to see their loved ones return safely. Our hearts ache for those who did not make it home.

With Veteran's Day on Thursday we ask everyone to stop, take a moment, and remember those who have served in all of our wars - past and present. It's our freedom they are protecting.

God speed to them all......

NEW PRODUCT ANNOUNCEMENT!

FAB Magic has secured the complete rights to this wonderful, easy to understand DVD on Invisible Thread! Many thanks to Darrin Race for putting together what we believe is the finest video on IT on the market today. It comes complete with thread, dvd and magician's wax. Introductory low price of only $15.00 - for a limited time ONLY!

Darrin was the magician/demonstrator/manager of the Lance Burton's magic shop in the Monte Carlo. We hope to have several of his items on line by the end of the year!

Don't delay...order one of the "Working I.T." videos NOW!

New Magic Display at Colon Museum

Here is a sneak peek at the new Magic display at the Colon Historical Museum. Lots of wonderful and one of a kind items to be seen here! Monk Watson's vaudeville hats, Percy Abbott's vent figure Joey, Blackstone memorabilia, Sally Banks' wardrobe trunks and so much more! This and the other exhibits are being worked on by a host of volunteers - it's been fun working with them all! The new displays will be ready for next summer just in time for magic week!

National Magic Week Proclaimed In Michigan!

For the 4th year in a row FAB Magic has secured a proclamation from the governor's office proclaiming the week of October 24 - 31st National Magic Week in Michigan! We, are of course, celebrating this magical time of year here at FAB Magic on October 30th will all kinds of activities, 20% discount on in-stock items, culminating with a BIG show at the Three Rivers Riviera Theater!

FREE magic show here in our showroom at 1:00 pm !

See Toledo's Michael Knight drive thru the streets of Colon BLINDFOLDED at high noon!

Gonna be a grrrrrrrrrrrreat time!

MSU Documentary on Magic

It was great having undergraduate students from Michigan State University here today. They are filming a documentary on magic and of course - came to the Magic Capital Of The World - where else :) A great group of men who have a real passion for their art. We are anxious to see the final copy.

My Punkin'

It is always a fun time of the year especially when you can share it with your granddaughter! Yep, Lily is almost 4 years old now and Halloween is so much fun - especially at the magic shop. She loves greeting the customers and showing them her 'latest' new trick. Al gets a kick out of her especially after he finishes a project and brings it in and she shows him 'her' latest new effect :)

Business has been over the top lately here at FAB Magic and we have some big announcements forthcoming - cccchhhanges ! All for the better and solidifying FAB Magic as one of the premiere magic companies in the world. Thanks to all of you for your support and oh by the way - Lily says 'thanks' as well :) Watch for more used magic this weekend.

4th Annual DAY OF MAGIC!

On Saturday, October 30th FAB Magic hosts it's 4th Annual DAY OF MAGIC here in Colon. Our showroom will be open 9:00 am - 4:00 pm with 20% $ALE all day. Cash & Carry ONLY! At 12:00 noon Michael Knight from Toledo, Ohio will be blindfolded and he will attempt to drive through downtown Colon using his extra sensory skills.

At 1:00 pm FAB Magic will be hosting a FREE Magic show here at the shop/showroom. We are asking for a donation of a can/box of non-perishable food to be donated to the Colon Food Pantry.

At 7:00 pm - FAB is sponsoring NITE OF MAGIC at the Riviera Theater in downtown Three Rivers, Michigan featuring the magic and illusions of Justin Holbrook, Rick Fisher & Riley Rabbit, and Krag Ryal. Tickets are $5.00 in advance or $7.00 at the door.

IT'S NATIONAL MAGIC WEEK AND WE HOPE YOU WILL JOIN US!

Harry & Jerry

Here is wonderful photo of Harry Blackstone Jr. signing an autograph(s) in the Jerry Conklin home. Yep, that's Jerry C on the right (ca 1970's) - We believe that is Jeff Boyer & Jim Fitzsimmons who are the lucky recipients of Harry's signature. The Conklins have hosted annual parties at their residence during magic week for over 25 years!

Both of these wonderful gentlemen are now gone but the memories live on. Thanks to Cindy Conklin for providing this neat picture.

Looking Thru the Eyes of A Dummy

Meet "Joey". As I work with the Colon Historical Society to improve the new magic displays, you find 'treasures'. This is one of them. "Joey" was Percy Abbott's ventriloquist figure and he performed with him overseas and here in the United States. As I held him I couldn't help but wonder if he could really 'talk' what stories he could tell about the people, places and events that have shaped his existence. If only 'dummies' could talk - and then again - maybe they can.


'Joey' used to tell Perc - " Be careful what you say or I'll spit in yer eye!" and then without warning 'Joey' would proceed to spit a stream of water into the audience. I can just imagine the reaction.

Our new website www.colonmichigan.org is a tribute to treasures like 'Joey' and the other jewels of this community. Won't you come visit?

"Houdini" Is Gone . . . .

"Houdini" is gone. Oh I realize the REAL Harry Houdini passed away in 1926, for many of us - Tony Curtis WAS Houdini. Growing up without cable tv, our family owned one television that once in a while, if the attennae was pointing in the right direction and there was just enough cloud cover, we could pick up old movies on WTTV-4 out of Indianapolis. Every week found me scouring the TV Guide looking for HOUDINI starring Tony Curtis & Janet Leigh. If I was lucky enough I could see the whole movie through the 'fuzzy airwaves'. This was my only connection to magic for the longest time.

I can even remember one year when I couldn't see it because of the distortions and I sat my old reel-to-reel tape recorder next to the tv speaker and recorded most of it so I could at least listen to the words and music whenever I wanted. Those were the days. . .

Whether you agree with the movie's authenticity or not it was inspirational to a lot of aspiring magicians. So here's to you Tony Curtis - thank you - we will miss you.

NEW WEBSITE! History Of Colon, Michigan !

Announcing an ALL NEW website! We have been working on this for quite some time now but within the next week our new internet site on the history of Colon, Michigan will be up and running. Anything you ever wanted to know about the history of the Magic Capital Of The World will be here! Never before seen photographs, interviews and much,much more. We are excited to finally bring the magic capital of the world TO the world. The official address is www.colonmichigan.org. Watch for it SOON!

Above is a photograph taken from 1953 4th of July Parade. Cool stuff!

Great Times & Great Friends

Here on Labor Day weekend it is nice to relax a bit in the shop before the busy season begins. I am very fortunate indeed to have so many good friends here in Colon. Bill Watson, my second "dad" is taking some time out to show my granddaughter Lily how to draw a picture of a butterfly. After that we are off to the zoo and looking forward to spending some quality time with her - she is three years old and going on ...10!

I hope you are enjoying your family this weekend - have a safe and happy Labor Day!

Magic Week-A-Whirl

Where do I start? First let me thank all of those who attended and I deeply appreciate your wonderful comments. It makes all of the hard work worth while. Next I want to thank my staff. Without them there is no way we could have served the hundreds of customers who walked into our store: Krag & Carol Ryal, Mark Davis,Syd Abbott, Sam Durocher, Cindy Conklin & Erica Brown. They did everything I asked and then some. I appreciate all of you and thank you from the bottom of my heart for making Magicelebration 2010 a complete success as we set sales records all four days! Our Percy Abbott book was a complete sell out and now have ordered a second printing. We had so much fun and more will be posted on our www.colonmichiganmagic.com website so stay tuned. Plans are already underway for next year and man do we have some surprises!

Buy A Brick and Believe in Colon!

Buy a brick and believe in the magic capital! The Colon Community Park is a thing of beauty and they are booking all types of events here. A new amphitheater is being planned and we are in the beginning stages of putting the plans together. While you are in Colon this next week why not stop in the shop and buy a brick with your name /family name engraved? Not only will you help the park raise money for all types of new equipment but you will also have a permanent home in THE Magic Capital Of The World!

It's the little things . . .

Taking a break from all the 'rush' before magic week my granddaughter reminds me of the simple things that we take for granted. Lily is so proud to rid herself of the yikes..shall I say it...binkie (also known as pacifier) Grandma took her to the post office to mail it to the "Binkie Warehouse" where it will no doubt be recycled into other 'binkies' or land in the 'binkie' landfill. Nevertheless, this made me smile :) So, when I get a bit frustrated all I have to do is look at this photo and know there is always 'hope' :)

Saturday Shows Are So MUCH FUN!

Our Saturday afternoon shows here at the shop have really proven to be a FUN time for both children and adults. Over 20 folks enjoyed yesterday's program. I don't know who has more fun - me or the audience :) - I have been on the road quite a bit performing and haven't been able to stage a Saturday show every week but beginning this fall we will have shows every Saturday with guest performers! So stay tuned. In the meantime we hope to see you in the Magic Capital real soon!

Percy Abbott Day - It's Official!

It is now official! The state of Michigan and Honorable Governor Jennifer Granholm have issued a Certificate of Tribute that proclaims Friday, August 6th - Percy Abbott Day! The proclamation will be on display in the FAB Magic Shop for all to see. A proud day for the Abbott family! Come and see Syd Abbott and have him autograph your program (free of charge in the shop) or pick up a copy of PERCY ABBOTT: MAGICAL YEARS and get him to sign that too!

"Whereas: At this year's 73rd Annual Magic Get-together, magicians will recognize the 50th anniversary of Percy Abbott's death, his life as a skilled entertainer in sleight of hand and as a businessman essential to establishing the Magic Capital: and

Whereas: Colon, Michigan is proud to be called the magic capital of the world and has used its title encourage young people to develop self esteem through the performance of magic with festivals such as the annual magic get-together.

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That we, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan and John D. Cherry, Jr. lieutenant governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby offer this Certificate of Tribute in recognition of the 73rd Annual Magic Get-together on the 50th anniversary of Percy Abbott's death. May the city of Colon continue to celebrate the wonder of magic and the life of Percy Abbott for years to come."

Counting Down The Daze :)

We are counting down the days until Magic Week here in Colon - August 4 - 7th. The only FREE Magic gathering on the planet we welcome Kozmo and Devin Knight to our village to lecture and perform. Plus the Roy Huston auction, Jerry Conklin estate sale, FREE show every day at the shop, 1 Trik Contest, Busking Competition, Close up Show, Open Mic Night and of course PERCY ABBOTT DAY on Friday August 6th, commemorating the 50 th anniversary of his death. Syd Abbott will be here to sign our new book on Percy - come by and say hello.

Plus lots of little extras we aren't advertising - you will just have to show up and see for yourself. We guarantee one thing - it will be a BLAST! -----and it's all FREE of Charge - we won't even charge you to come in and buy anything :) and we have Bob Sanders/DoveLite Magic and Al Bach/Magic Now setting up shop within our shop. We have two estates on their way to overwhelm the shop with magic, magic, magic. Hey this is what it's all about - sharing the magic. Man we are excited...the goosebumps are on my arm as I write this.

We hope to see you in Colon in August. Plus we have several announcements forthcoming to whet your appetite further!

4th Of July In The Magic Capital!

Man, what a celebration! Colon's 4th of July parade and festivities are certainly a highlight of the summer and this year's activities were no exception. The day started early as Kim Morgan and I assembled the sound system and made sure everything was in place for the 11:00 am parade. Chamber of Commerce President Edith Doenges and Sparkles committee deserve a round of kudos for organizing this event. This year marked the return of the 'wart hogs' and they flew over the the town to thunderous applause! My two sons were honored, as well as the other enlisted troups in this area. Thanks boys - you make dad proud!

FAB Magic staged a new location grand opening and we had standing room only PLUS! A very successful day and we thank all those that came in including magicians from Ann Arbor and Detroit who especially made the trek to Colon. We stayed til late Saturday evening as business was brisk and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves immensely. The new location here at 212 East State Street has been a blessing in disguise and retail sales have hit all - time highs the bast three weeks. They say everything happens for a reason - I am true believer of that now!

You might as well put July 4th, 2011 on your calendar and spend the day in Colon - what a magical place it is -

CASE In Point - Watch us NOW!

With the new retail shop also comes new and innovative ideas. Our latest addition to the FAB staff is a guy who does amazing stuff with wood. Now with a CNC machine we are able to build anything - anything in magic. He certainly complements what our shop foreman Al Littlejohn does.

Look at this great solid walnut close up box! Measuring 8.0" x 5.5" with a depth of 4.5" this is perfect for carrying around your close up magic! And we can even personalize for you! The box - only $45.00 - personalized $55.00 - It's constructed from 3/4" stock. Our staff of talented craftspeople is now 5 and we look to add one or two more folks before the end of the year. FAB Magic quality is tops because of our staff. My hat is off to you all and welcome Kip to our staff!

National Magic Day at The Riviera!

For the past three years FAB Magic has hosted "A Day Of Magic" during National Magic Week in October. It's a NEW tradition here in Colon attracting hundreds of tourists and media for this event. This year we are going all out with a surprise event during the day here in Colon followed by all types of fun and trick or treating and immediately following the day's events we are hosting "A Night Of Magic!" We have secured the beautifully renovated Riviera Theater in downtown Three Rivers for a Spectacular Magic Production beginning at 7:00pm, Sataurday ~ October 30th.

Tickets in advance will be $5.00 - with tickets at the door available (if there are any left) for only $7.00.

A family fun day and evening! We will keep you updated on the latest and who we have coming to perform. So much happening in the Magic Capital Of The World - I can't keep up...now where is my secretary?

For more information on the Riviera Theater click here for details!

Whew! We are finally back up again :)

I love old buildings and that certain 'feel' they have. But I gotta tell you when you have to start from scratch it can wear on your nerves a bit :) The building had to be completely re-wired and plumbed so we could have all of our computers and telephone systems in place. Today I can say we are now in and assembled, back to business and we have rightsized our operation so now it runs smoother and more efficiently. Here are some pics of the new showroom. Al and the gang are busy working out the details down at the new workshop. This building allows for a small woodshop and then our larger operation has been moved to a building here in town that gives us more room to build all of those great FAB items.

We appreciate your patience in this transition period and we think you will be in for a real treat when you come to visit our location here in Colon! In the middle of all this I have just negotiated bringing in another magic estate and our New Lamps For Old program has been a tremendous success! Check out the 'gently used' items on our Used Magic site at http://www.fabmagic.com/ with lots more to come.

New items arriving daily will fill the showroom to the brim. We are anticipating a great Magic Week August 4-7th - with Percy Abbott Day on August 6th. Syd Abbott will be here to sign our new book on Perc. In the meantime watch colonmichiganmagic.com for more details and updated items from the Roy Huston collection. Man I love my job!