Brian Flora passed away, Saturday, August 24, in his home, of a massive
heart attack.  Here is the obituary from one of the Albuquerque, New
Mexico, newspapers.  We have lost a true friend of mechanical music.

  Brian Flora, known also as "Professor Flora" the magician, died
  at his home on Saturday, August 24, 2002.  Brian was well-known to
  children and families in Albuquerque, performing at restaurants,
  outdoor events, and parties.  Memorial Services to commemorate his
  life and work will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2002 at 4:00 p.m.
  at Immanuel Presbyterian Church, 114 Carlisle Blvd. SE.  In lieu of
  flowers, friends might consider making donations to the Parents Fund
  of Swarthmore College, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA 19081.
  Details on a scholarship in his name at the University of New Mexico
  will also be forthcoming.

Ed Gaida

 [ Thanks, Ed, I'm sorry to hear the news.  I found the brief report
 [ following at the web site of the International Brotherhood of
 [ Magicians (IBM), http://www.magician.org/main.htm :
 [
 [   Brian Flora, a former IBM member, died of a massive heart
 [   attack on Saturday, August 24.  Brian was a well-known
 [   magician in Albuquerque, NM, performing in restaurants,
 [   schools, private parties, and outdoor events.  His business,
 [   Flora and Company, began when he started producing a
 [   series of audio and video tapes to teach other entertainers
 [   how to do the things that he could do so well.
 [
 [ Brian's love of magic and education is expressed at his web pages:
 [
 [   http://www.floraco.com/
 [   http://www.floraco.com/welcome.htm
 [   http://www.floraco.com/brian1.htm
 [
 [ -- Robbie