The Black Richard Ring
IBM Ring 166 received its charter on February 12th 1961, At the Highway Motel in Concord NH. There were 17 Original founding members among them were, Ace Gorham, Jack Booth, John Hamilton, Ira Bromfield, And Paul Heavey. Out of the 17 original members only 5 survive today. They are Ray Fontaine, Dwight Damon, Andre St. Germain, Lee Parmenter and Paul Heavey. Paul Still serves as the meetings host in his Little Theater in Manchester, NH.
The Club is named for Richard Potter, Who lived in New Hampshire and was America's first Black Magician Over the years the black Richard Ring has had some notable members. One of the most notable was Wendel Gibson the nephew of Magician and Author Walter Gibson. In his many years with the Ring Wendel was a great inspiration to new and old members alike. Wendel also served as Territorially Vice President for the IBM. Other notable members include founding member Ace Gorham who served as International President of the IBM in 1972. Member Dwight Damon who was also know as Ring-a-Ding the clown on WMUR-TV in the 1960's.
Today the Black Richard Ring continues to have notable magicians as part of the membership. B.J. Hickman who is a very busy children's entertainer and has lectured all over the country including at the World Famous Magic Castle. Is our current Treasurer. Another busy member is Andrew Pinard who besides having a steady restaurant engagement and Private Parties, Andrew also works as an editor on numerous magic books most recently the Don Allan book by L&L Publishing. And member Steve Thomas Who among his list of many credits was the first Ronald McDonald and is also know as Mr. Megabuck's. He is also a very in demand performer in the New England Area.
In the Past and continuing today Paul Heavey's Little Theatre has played host to some very notable magicians lectures. Famous names in magic like Slydini, Bob Mcallister, Allan Hayden, Michael Ammar, Aldo Colombini, Lee Asher, Gregory Wilson, and Bob Bangel. Have all lectured for Ring 166, And we will continue to try and bring the very best magicians in the world of Magic to New Hampshire.
Well that is a little history of who we are, If you are ever in the New Hampshire area please drop us a line and stop in to see us. I am sure it will be a magical experience for all of us.