Seven months and counting…

If you have not registered for this Labor Day convention…what are you waiting for? If it’s award winning acts you want, boy, do we have them! Expect to see two IBM Gold Cups winners — Jade & Oscar Munoz — plus Robert Baxt, FISM Comedy winner; and Suzanne, Academy of Magic Arts Close-up Magician of the Year. There will also be plenty more wonderful magicians as well as an entire gala show with some of the most talented lady magicians in the world. Registration is simply a click away: http://taom.org/2015/convention-registration/The Austin host club, IBM Ring 60, is working tirelessly to make the 2015 TAOM one of the best, most fun and memorable experiences ever. Since Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World” it makes sense to have live music performed throughout this year’s convention. Dan Page, our live music coordinator, is lining up some very talented and diverse musicians. If you play an instrument and want to help, contact Dan (craniusmagic@gmail.com) for more information!

Did you know the 2015 TAOM Convention is dedicated to our military veterans and active servicemen and women? If you are a vet or active in the military, we would like to know about you! Please contact JD Stewart jd@jd-stewart.com . We are planning something very special.

Do you like parties? Then the events planned for Sunday evening, September 6th will be right up your alley. After everyone attends one of two private shows on 6th street at Esther’s Follies (featuring Ray Anderson) you will be invited back into the Sheraton ballroom for an exciting “Moulin Rouge” themed event.

Live music, magic and more … Don’t miss TAOM 2015.

                                                          Trixie Bond
President, 2015 TAOM

Attention
TAOM BOARD MEMBERS: The mid-year TAOM Board meeting has been set for Saturday, May
2nd, at 10:30 a.m. We want our attending
board members to have a “magical experience” so we have reserved a block of
seats for a Friday, May 1^st performance at “Esther’s Follies,” starring Ray
Anderson. On Saturday afternoon,
following the board meeting, guests also will have a chance to attend a matinee
and/or evening performance of “Magic at the Capitol,” at the Scottish Rite
Theater. http://magicatthecapitol.com/

Information about the line-up and how to
purchase tickets will be published later. The host hotel for the convention and mid-year board meeting is the
beautiful Sheraton at the Capitol. Click here to make your hotel reservation for the board meeting: Texas Association
of Magicians.)

The 2015 TAOM in Austin will be fantastic! Register today: http://taom.org/2015/convention-registration/

READY OR NOT: IT’S TIME FOR THE AUSTIN MAGIC AUCTION

Giant illusions and pocket miracles — you’ll find them all at the World Famous Magic Auction. The 34th annual event begins at 8 a.m. on Saturday, February 28th — and doesn’t stop until everything is sold. The cost for entry is $10.

“Preparing for the auction is hard, hard work — but it’s worth it,” said Trixie Bond, the auction chairwoman. “We’re busy tagging items, contacting sellers, taking care of all the important details that go into hosting a successful magic auction. We’re expecting this to be a great event.”

More than 1,300 items have been submitted for sale, including collectible books, great parlor effects, illusions and theatrical props. A team of Austin volunteers have spent weeks tagging and sorting the items, with more props and tricks arriving each week.  Based on the number of items so far sorted by volunteers, this year’s auction should be the largest in several years.

Although sellers pocket plenty of money, a portion of the auction proceeds also benefits Austin’s Assembly 206, of the Society of American Magicians. The event is the club’s principal fundraiser, and typically draws collectors and magicians from throughout Texas.

This year’s auctioneers are Austin’s C.J. Johnson, Houston’s Scott Wells, as well as Grant Walsh from Dallas.  Several surprise “guest auctioneers” are lined up too! There will also be all-day silent auctions for mentalism effects, coin effects, books and other sorts of magical items.

“We’re going to have great fun so please come out and join us,” said Ms. Bond. “The magic auction is a wonderful event. You’ll get to visit with old friends, make new ones, maybe make a few extra dollars and all the while you’ll be supporting the Austin magic community. See you then.”

GETTING THERE
The 34th Annual World Famous Magic Auction will be held at the Twin Lakes Fellowship Church, in Cedar Park, just north of Austin. The address is 1150 South Bell Boulevard.

Cost of Entry is $10. Lunch is also available, at an extra charge.

BONUS Eric Jones LECTURE FOLLOWING AUCTION: if you attend the auction, you get into this great lecture for only $5.00!  ($10.00 for those that did not attend the Magic Auction)
Saturday, February 28, 2015 from 7pm to 9pm
Location: “Survivor cabin” Twin Lakes YMCA
204 E Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Little Elm is the light just before Heroes’ Night out or a little over 900 yards from the Austin Magic Auction location.

Need a place to stay overnight?  The auction committee recommends The Bungalows.  It is a brand new hotel with clean rooms, great rates and within walking distance of the auction location:
The Bungalows Hotel & Event Center
1000 South Bell Blvd
Cedar Park, Texas 78613
512-331-2741
http://www.texasbungalow.com/
Discount code: MagicAuction

Collector’s Meeting – Friday, February 27th – 6:30pm
Claude Crowe has lined up a fun and informative meeting for all the collectors.  Arthur Moses, Brad Henderson, Ron Cartlidge, Randy Naylor and more.
There will be a light dinner served at 6:30pm – $5.00 (sandwiches, chips, cookies and sodas) Collectors will get a preview of the auction items too.

Robert Baxt can best be characterized by the description: “If all the world’s a stage, he wants better lighting!”  He worked his way through school performing at children’s birthday parties, picnics, comedy clubs, and corporate events. Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Theater, he was presented with the dual opportunities of being accepted to both Ringling Brothers Clown College and Law School. Without hesitation, he chose the one that would give him the better training for a life in comedy: Law School!

Attaining his Juris doctorate degree from an accredited New York City law school, Robert realized that no one ever applauded an attorney after a hard day of cheating people so he turned to a full time career in show business.  Comedy clubs, casinos, and college campuses not being enough, Robert found himself making television appearances in South America, the Orient, Italy, Canada, and Spain; as well as numerous showcases on “America’s Funniest People” and on “THAT’S SO FUNNY”. As an actor, he can be seen in the dramatic film “Even Money” that stars Danny Devito, Kim Bassinger, Kelsey Grammer, and Ray Liotta.

Robert did the unusual feat of winning the 1st prize at the National IBM Gold Medal Stage Competition with a comedy act. He then upheld his tittle by winning a Comedy Trophy at FISM.

You will definitely enjoy his performance at TAOM!

John Carney is no ordinary “magician”. His approach is smart, engaging and always surprising. He is widely acknowledged as one of the top sleight of hand magicians in the world with smart, unique, and often hilarious presentations. Hollywood’s Magic Castle has awarded Carney more awards than anyone in their history, the only performer to win in every category. In fact, he has won Hollywood’s Magic Castle award for Magician of the Year seven times. Another record.
Born in Des Moines, Iowa, John is a professional sleight of hand artist, author and comic actor. In 1988 and 1991, he was an award winner at the world FISM magic championships. Carney studied under Dai Vernon
Carney’s performances include corporate speaking and entertainment for parties and other events, as well as his theatre show, Carney’s Wonders. He has performed in casinos in Atlantic City, Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas. He has also appeared on The Jerry Seinfeld HBO Special and CBS Magicians Favorite Magicians on David Letterman’s Late Show, and has served as a spokesman for MasterCard, performing magic for their national television commercials.
His books, Carneycopia, and The Book of Secrets are considered modern classics, and is considered one of magic’s best and most insightful teachers.
Pin-balling between jaunty comedic riffs and mind-boggling sleight of hand, Carney will have you reeling with his hilarious audience participation segments and embodiment of multiple characters. Carney isn’t quite like any magician you’ve seen before. Carney embodies the state of his art, combining exceptional skill and creativity with pure entertainment.

Suzanne will shine! 
Her engaging style makes the audience an essential participant in her performance. Other respected professional magicians have called her “flawless” and “amazing”. She is a favorite at Hollywood’s famous Magic Castle and was awarded Close Up Magician of the Year for 2010 by The Academy of Magical Arts. Her specialty is close-up magic for corporate and private events.

Bits and Pieces of Interesting Stuff

We are pleased to be back at the Twin Lakes Fellowship Church located at 1150 South Bell Blvd, Cedar Park, TX 78750.

Collector’s Meeting – Friday, February 27th – 6:30pm

Claude Crowe has lined up a fun and informative meeting for all the collectors.  Arthur Moses, Brad Henderson, Ron Cartlidge, Randy Naylor and more.

There will be a light dinner served at 6:30pm – $5.00 (sandwiches, chips, cookies and sodas) Collectors will get a preview of the auction items too.

Our outstanding auctioneers, Scott Wells and Grant Walsh,  will be joined by the dynamic star of stage, screen, and colleges around the country, none other than C. J. Johnson!

Save the Date! Saturday, February 28th 9am-5pm

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The February 2015 edition of MUM features TAOM past president Bruce Chadwick.  Bruce’s cover celebrates 48 years in the business of magic. He has served as TAOM Historian for many years and has archived hundreds of documents, photographs, films, and memorabilia about previous TAOM conventions and members. He has a wealth of knowledge in magic history, collecting of props, stagecraft, lighting and sound. His love of stand-up and stage magic has given him a interesting ride. We are glad to be a part of it. Congratulations, Bruce!

David Hinkin was named Houston’s “Magician of the Year” at the annual Hinkin Installation Banquet and Show on Sunday, February 15, 2015.  The packed house of almost 500 people enjoyed pre-dinner entertaining close-up magic by dozens of strolling performers.  Officials of the three clubs (International Brotherhood of Magicians Ring 19, Society of American Magicians, and Houston Association of Magicians) were installed and then the audience was treated to an outstanding stage show featuring David Stone from France and Martin Cox from Great Britain.

The Fort Worth Magicians Club installation banquet and show was held on January 8th at the Spring Creek BBQ in South Arlington. All had a scrumptious dinner while Matthew Martin, Bruce Chadwick, and Rob Davis presented close‐up table‐hopping prestidigitation. After the outgoing officers were recognized and incoming officers were installed, the president’s wand was passed from Michael Stein to Matthew Martin, thus kicking off the New Year for The Fort Worth Magicians Club Inc. (IBM Ring 15 and SAM Assembly 138). Magician of the Year Bill Irwin was honored for his indefatigable efforts for the club, junior magicians, and TAOM. The featured magician for the evening was “Magic” Mike Williams.

Magic on the Grill at Tokyohana Every Thursday and Saturday Night tokyohana” title=”tokyohana” />

David Rangel coordinates a covey of local area magicians who perform close-up magic each week atop hibachi grills at Tokyohana Grill and Sushi Bar. Come enjoy some excellent oriental cuisine or sit at the sushi bar and enjoy some sushi and a drink with some magic on the side.

Where: Tokyohana Grill and Sushi Bar,
3239 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77027
When: Thursdays from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m.

Second Saturday Magic Show at the Magic Attic Theatre at Main Street Magic & Fun Company in McKinney

Family-friendly shows at 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. February 14.

In other exciting news, the Society of Young Magicians, sponsored by Dallas Society of American Magicians, will have regular meetings beginning February 8 at 1:00 p.m. This world-wide organization for youth, ages 7 through 17 promotes interest in magic as a wholesome hobby that will help develop self-confidence and skill, the ability to speak in public, discipline that comes from learning, practicing and performing magic, and a sense of service to others through helping others learn magic and by performing magic at charitable events. To learn more or to let us know that you will be attending, please email Jennifer at mainstreetmagic@att.net

Magic at the Improv 

In Addison EVERY SUNDAY at 2:00 p.m. Doors open at 1:00 for lunch and pre-show entertainment. http://addison.improv.com/

In Arlington EVERY SUNDAY at 2:00 p.m. Featuring Christopher Lyle and Ian Richards on January 25, David Hira on February 1, and Mike Squires on February 8.  Go to http://arlington.improv.com/ for details

In Houston – Ted Schwank and Carter Blackburn take you on a high-energy adventure in magic, illusion, and comedy. For dates and times, go to http://houston.improv.com/

Shane Wilson & Chris Alonzo Performing At Sakura Japanese Steakhouse

Shane Wilson & Chris Alonzo now appear regularly at Pearland’s superb hibachi restaurant, Sakura. Catch live performances every Friday and Saturday beginning at 7:00 p.m.See Chris Alonzo on Fridays and Shane Wilson on Saturdays.

See Ben Jackson Live Each Week at Campioni Restaurant in North Houston

Ben Jackson performs close-up magic on Tuesday and Friday nights when it doesn’t conflict with his busy professional schedule of corporate performances. Catch him when you can.

Campioni – 5419 FM 1960 West in Houston
Phone 281-893-2267 for current information and to make dinner reservations.

Second Saturday Magic Sale at Magic, Etc., 9:00 a.m.,

Forest Park Blvd. at 1-30 in Fort Worth.

New Kid on the Block — er, new MAGIC SHOP in Texas.  Next time you’re in Beaumont, check it out!  Laugh It Up Gift Shop, 6155 Eastex Freeway, Suite 691 in Parkdale Mall. This nice little gag and gift shop has a growing magic section and always accommodates special orders.  email info@laughitupgifts.com  and check out their website at www.laughitupgifts.com

Cards in South Austin

The South Austin Card Group meets on the last Saturday of each month, usually at the home of Ron Cartlidge. Get in touch with Lou Hornung at lhornumg@sbcglobal.net for details and to be added to the meeting notice distribution list.

Rick Hebert Every Other Weekend at Claudia’s in League City

Rick Hebert is performing restaurant magic every other weekend at Claudio’s Restaurant& Piano Bar in League City. Their website is: http://www.claudiospianobar.com/

Rick will be strolling table-side magic, as well as doing a short magic show on the main stage every other weekend. Check the website to dates and times.

Monday Night Magic in Arlington

All magic aficionados are invited to attend informal gatherings at Humperdink’s Restaurant at LaQuinta Inn, #6 North Six Flags Drive every Monday night. Bring your cards and props to practice your “chops” in the back room.

But wait….there’s more:

Second Tuesday TOO!

The Dallas/Fort Worth Mid-Cities Magic Circle held their inaugural meeting on the second Tuesday in January. This special interest group focuses on performance. They meet on the second Tuesday of each month from 7 to 9:30 at Humperdink’s Restaurant at Six Flags in Arlington.

The purpose of the Mid-Cities Magic Circle is to provide a venue for Dallas/Fort Worth performing magicians to study their art and improve as public performers. The meetings will focus on a single theme each month. There is no formal membership, no notes or minutes, no officers — each meeting will address the development of performance skills, routines, and other elements important to the public performance of magic.

For more information… forget it! There is simply no one in charge who will respond! Just show up each second Tuesday at Humperdink’s Restaurant at Six Flags in Arlington at 7:00 and join in the fun and magic!

Coming Attractions

Eric Jones Lectures

Austin – February 28 following the Austin Magic Auction at Twin Lakes Fellowship Church, 1150 South Bell Boulevard in Cedar Park.  Half price with auction ticket.

Dallas – March 1 at 2:00 p.m. at Crosspointe, 2425 West Parker Road in Carrollton.

Houston – March 2 at 7:30 p.m. at the IATSE Hall, 3030 North Freeway.

Regarded by his peers as one of Magic’s Rising Stars, Eric Jones has made quite a name for himself in the world of magic. Armed with cunning sleight of hand and a charming personality, he will astound you with his digital dexterity.  Eric creates intimate miracles with cards and coins.

Austin – March 7 – Magical Lock Picking Clinic with Master Locksmith Kevin Moore.  10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  ALL SEATS RESERVED.  Email lectures@ibmring60.org  or call JD Stewart at 512-468-0011.

Lee Earle Lectures

New Orleans – February 27.  Contact Westley Annis at LA-magic@benthatmagic.com  for details.

Houston – March 31 at 7:30 p.m. at the IATSE Hall, 3030 North Freeway. Info at www.houstonmagic.com

San Antonio – April 1.  Contact Doug Gorman for time and location.

McAllen – April 2 at 7:00 p.m.at the McAllen Incubator.  Contract George Robinson at george@vikingmagic.com  for more information.

Lee Earle turned 69 years old in June 2014 and is starting his “Farewell Tour”.  He has spread his love for mentalism by presenting hundreds of lectures in just about every English speaking country in the world, and in quite a few others – with the help of translators.

Earle’s lectures go well beyond ‘teaching tricks’ and focus on modeling an example from which other performers can learn the “real work”.

Dallas – The Illusionsts, April 7-19 at the Music Hall at Fair Park.  Direct from Broadway , the world’s best-selling magic show is coming to Dallas Summer Musicals! This mind blowing spectacular showcases the jaw dropping talents of seven of the most incredible Illusionists on earth. The Illusionists has shattered box office records across the globe and dazzles audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions.

Oscar Munoz and Becky Blaney are among the headliners scheduled to appear at the Second Annual Oceanside Magic Invitational Convention April 9-12 at the Red Jacket Beach Resort on beautiful Cape Cod.  Registration is limited to 200. For more information, email info@oceansidemagic.com  or go to www.oceansidemagic.com

Dallas Magic Clubs Annual Banquet and Show featuring Shawn Farquhar on May 7 at the Hackberry Creek Country Club in Irving. Farquhar is a F.I.S.M. Grand Prix winner and president of the International Brotherhood of Magicians.

Go to <www.dallasmagic.org/banquet/ to reserve your seat.

Congratulations!

Ramon recently shared the story about the creation of the colorful Mexican costumes he wore in his stage performing days.  Early on, he wore the standard white tie and tails.  He had occasion to meet Siegfried and Roy in Vegas in a tiny dressing room at a Las Vegas hotel.  Siefried commented that he didn’t like Ramon’s attire for a Mexican magician.  He said, “You should be wearing a sombrero and a serape.  You’re a tailor, for God’s sake! You can make yourself a more exciting costume.”  Well, that led to a series of ever-more colorful and “exciting” costumes that Ramon wore over the years.

According to one of his long-time friends, Kent Cummins,  Ramon’s enthusiasm and love for the city of Austin, the world of magic, and the excitement and creativity of film-making keep him active as he tools around in a wheelchair at his home on Sunny Lane overlooking Town Lake in Austin.  His accomplishments are astounding!

Doug Kornegay was honored with the Lifetime Achieement Award and
named Dean of S.A.M. Assembly 19 at Houston magicians’ annual banquet
and show on February 15.  His 60+ years of service to Houston magic and
his life-long devotion to magic were recognized by Jeff Lanes during the
ceremonies before the show.  Doug and his wife Donnie performed around
the county for many years and his dedication to Houston club activities
is well known.  Doug suffered a medical set-back a few weeks ago and is
in an extended-care facility at this time.  The family asked that you
refrain from calling or sending emails until he is better able to
respond. Cards and letters can be sent to 2207 Hewitt, Houston 77018.

The Last Word

Dal Sanders, immediate past international president of the Society of American Magicians, announced that S.A.M. is preparing to offer an opportunity for all members to list their bio and contact information on the national website so individuals looking for a magician can find them.  Go to www.magicsam.com  to edit your profile and list it so prospective customers in your area can find you. The page will go live within the next month.

Officers and Club Reps:  don’t forget the mid-year business meeting on May 2.  All members are welcome.

Judy Hollingsworth
TAOM Club Coordinator