Another Walter Scott

Gazzo keeps a look out for the name Walter Scott, just in case anything emerges about his former friend and card cheat. Occasionally something does turn up in the news cuttings. Like the Walter Scott who was busted in 1911, along with Wyatt Earp, for running a rigged faro game.

Today Gazzo sent me a link to a very interesting story about another Walter Scott, prospector, performer and con man extraordinaire. You might also see similarities with Eddie McGuire when it comes to boasting about accomplishments he never possessed, like breaking the bank at Monte Carlo.

Just to be clear, this isn't the Walter Irving Scott in our book Phantoms of the Card Table. But it is certainly worth a read. Click on the link:

Death Valley Scotty

Chan Canasta Painting

One of the best things about having a blog is the interesting correspondence that finds its way to me. This week Avi Hassidoff sent me a photo of a painting that belongs to his father. The artist is none other than Chan Canasta. It's signed with a variant of his real name, Mifeleuv.

The painting is oil on cardboard, measures 30 inches x 26 inches (77cm x 66 cm) and is of the mosque in Jerusalem. Very few Canasta paintings ever come on to the market and this one is for sale. If you're interested in the painting or require any more information please do contact Avi at avihassidoff@googlemail.com. Meanwhile enjoy the photo that Avi kindly sent.