Al Flosso
(New York City, NY: 10th October 1895 - 13th May 1976)
Stage name of Albert "Floss" Levinson, aka "The Coney Island Fakir" (named in 1930s by Milton Berle). At age 10 inspired seeing Harry Bouton ("Blackstone") and learned from tricks bought at Martinka's. Pro since age 13, his shills including future magus Charles C. Eastman and future comedian Bud Abbott.
Coney Island and circus sideshow magician and pupeteer 1915-39, including being featured in "Palace of Mystery" big illusion show at Atlantic City pier 1938-39. Dealer in New York City since late 1939 (when he succeeded Frank Ducrot) as the Flosso-Hornmann Magic Company in New York City. Played the Ed Sullivan TV show 1950 and 1952. SAM Hall of Fame. Trick in Hugard's Magic Monthly. His son Jack succeeded to the business. Bio is Gary R. Brown, The Coney Island Fakir: The Magical Life of Al Flosso (1997, 139pp).
Coauthors: Al Baker, Roy Benson, Robert Harbin, Leo (Mohammed Bey) Horowitz, "Think-a-Drink" Hoffman, Eugene Laurant, Magini, Miaco, Russell Swann