ABOUT US

“On a cold, snowy night, January (the 20th) 1949, the first installation and charter banquet of Ring #74 was held at the old Howard-Johnson’s Restaurant.”*

The charter was presented to our Ring by Gene Gordon who held the official number #2 in the International Organization. This beginning gave birth to a magic club who celebrates seventy-five years of success in 2024.

Over its life, Ring #74 members physically met in many different venues.  Restaurants, churches, offices, and veteran halls provided safe havens for the wizards to share their secrets together.  When public places were unavailable, some private homes were opened to provide the necessary sanctuaries.

Over the years, many members of Ring #74 became famous in our magic universe.  Too numerous to name individually, their skills, professional achievements and notoriety stand tall today.  These magicians excelled in many facets of our art, including, stage, close-up magic, and as authors and fine artists.

During the past, Ring #74 held numerous NYCAN conventions.  NYCAN (New York, Canada) meetings were one-day affairs.  They featured many different attractions, including lectures, dealer rooms, close-up performances, public shows, a judged junior competition and fantastic banquets.  These conventions were held at different hotels and popular theaters.  Many were 100% successful, both artistically and financially.  Some lost money – shortfalls on the monetary side were quickly replaced as the members put on several performances providing much-needed remuneration.  Some members were awarded “Life-Time Membership” status in appreciation for their significant financial donations.

Over the years, Ring #74 provided entertainment for many worthwhile causes and charities.  Shows were done in hospitals, nursing homes and other venues to provide financial help to these well-deserving organizations.  Encouraging magic through our community has been and still is one of the most important missions of Ring #74.

All clubs and organizations were negatively affected during the 2019-2021 COVID years. Many closed their doors forever. These were difficult times for all social gatherings.  It was during this time that we successfully utilized Zoom to communicate. Its use continues today.

We now host two magic meetings each month.  The virtual Zoom meetings boasts attendees from all over the United States.  Membership numbers have ebbed and flowed over the years.  In the 1970s, our Ring had over eighty magicians. Today, we are growing through the efforts of our leadership.  We not only survived difficult times, but we are now truly thriving!

Our magic club has always welcomed men, women and seriously interested teenagers into our Brotherhood and Sisterhood.  We encourage and support people of all faiths, races, and backgrounds.   Bringing happiness, smiles, and joy through the art of magic is our prime mission.

*Ray Cerio (a founding member), composition “History of Ring 74”