The Austin Magic Community is one of the busiest, hard working groups I’ve ever had the privilege to be involved with.  We just wrapped up the World Famous Austin Magic Auction that was held on February 28th.  Despite the freezing weather and icy roads it was a terrific auction. 129 buyers from all over Texas and New Mexico turned up at the door on time.  Hot deals and fun were had by all. We sold $21,000 of magic in 8 hours.

As if planning a TAOM Convention is not enough to keep the folks in Austin busy, IBM Ring 60 (host club for TAOM) is now neck-deep in planning the 2nd annual “Magic at the Capitol” show on May 2nd.

The show will take place in the historic Scottish Rite Theater in downtown Austin.  This is a beautiful 100-year-old  theater with a rich history.  We will have two shows, 3:30 and 8 p.m.  Ava Byers, the 2014 TAOM Jr Stage Winner,  will grace our matinee show along with James Irwin, the 2013 TAOM Junior Stage Winner, Bertil Fredstrom “Black Bert,” Ian Varella and others to be announced soon.  The 8 p.m. show will again feature ventriloquist Ian Varella along with Peter the Adequate, Scott Wells, Nick Lewin and a surprise or two to be announced.  Nick Lewin will also be performing and lecturing at the 2015 TAOM.  May 2nd would be a great time to come get a sneak peak and watch this pro-showman!

“Magic at the Capitol” show is a TAOM fund raiser so our club can offer the convention attendees the best of Austin hospitality and fun. If you have not heard, it’s time to learn, “Magic, Music, Weirdness & Women” along with great Austin hospitality and fun is what you will experience at the 2015 TAOM. Register NOW!

And before I sign off, I have one bit of somber news to share. Within the last two months we have lost three prominent TAOM members: Ed Solomon, Doug Kornegay and Claude Crowe. They’ve all been great supporters of Texas magic. My sympathies and condolences go out to their families and friends.

Trixie Bond
President, 2015 TAOM

TAOM is proud to announce that Nick Lewin has been added to the list of talented stars of the 2015 convention. The Los Angeles Times says, “Anyone who thinks you can’t do two things well, should see Lewin seamlessly blend reality and fantasy, magic and comedy. Reality suddenly becomes one helluva concept!” Hailing  from London, England, Lewin now makes his home in Austin.

Nick has  been featured on numerous television shows with his award-winning  non-stop entertainment, filled with his dry English sense of humor perfectly honed for American audiences. For five years Lewin starred in “Comedy Magic”, his own award-winning one-man show in Las Vegas, where he also hosted his own nationally broadcast radio and television series, “The Entertainment Files.”

He brings a unique and fresh approach that delights every kind of audience with his personalized comedy, magic and mentalism. TAOM audiences will be delighted with Lewin’s highly individual blend of stand-up comedy, sleight of hand, and mind magic.

You will gasp at his astounding magic, while laughing at comedy that is often as fresh as the morning’s newspaper. It is the funniest magic you will never believe! 

“Zaney” Blaney Ladder Levitation History

Walter “Zaney” Blaney first performed his ladder levitation in 1965 at the Dallas TAOM convention.  It’s history is part of a lifetime magic documentary that’s in the works.  One chapter focuses on the creation, evolution, and permutations of this famous illusion.  The 30-minute video at http://youtu.be/U6u0mI8s0tk gives an in-depth review of the illusion.  Don’t miss this one if you are a lover of magic levitations and appreciate how a new creation comes onto the magic scene.

WHY THE WORLD NEEDS MAGIC

In 2012, S.A.M. Past National President Dal Sanders and Jason Van Sickle began working on on a video project to explain why the world needs magic. The original plan was to interview the top magicians in the world and have them discuss their place in magic’s history and why the art of magic is important. Their goal was to assimilate enough footage to create an eipc documentary. As time passed (and an online entertainment paradigm emerged) Dal and Jason realized that their efforts might be better served in short segments that are featured on the web. This is the first of many webisodes that will explore the history, the importance and the future of the art of magic. This web series will celebrate The Art of Magic and how The Society of American Magicians has helped to advance and elevate that art. This is, WHY THE WORLD NEEDS MAGIC.

Kenrick “Ice” McDonald is the first African-American President of the Society of American Magicians talks about the precedence made by his position and some early black magicians and their struggles to make the art form a profession  You can watch the first webisode at https://youtu.be/-26xgHqHqo

The project was put together by Executive Producer Dal Sanders, Producer/Director/Editor Jason Van Sickel, DP/Camera Kyle Montgomery, Grip/PA/Asst Producer Kacie Helms, Graphics by Marc Rouse & Chris Marrs, with special thanks to The S.A.M. Magic Endowment Fund for helping get this project started. Details about the origin and initial announcement of the project can be seen at https://vimeo.com/41209615 and a candid discussion about the project  between Dal and Jason is available at https://vimeo.com/41624023

Live Magic Expo – This Changes Everything!

“Live Magic Expo” brings top convention-caliber dealers to you!  Sponsored by Magic Magazine, the Society of American Magicians, and Penguin Magic, a group of the top magic creators and dealers will bring their traveling magic shop to several cities in the U.S. this spring, including Houston on April 11.  For details and a $10 coupon, go to http://www.penguinmagic.com/p/5291

Brilliant magic creators (Mark Mason, Paul Richards, Brent Braun, Chris Smith, Losander and more) will be performing their latest creations as well as giving short lectures all day.

When:             Saturday, April 11, 2015
What Time:     10 AM through 4 PM
Where:            Crowne Plaza Houston River Oaks
2712 Southwest Freeway in Houston

Magic on the Grill at Tokyohana Every Thursday and Saturday Night 

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 at 1:00 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month at Main Street MAgic and Fun Company in McKinney. 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 call Jennifer at 214-274-7802  or email 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 in Houston

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!

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!

STOLEN MAGIC IN LUBBOCK

Dr. Rick Honea reported that his trailer filled with magic was taken by thieves on Friday, March 20. The collection included his back drop, sound system, dove vanish cage, fender passport, guillotine, and boxes and boxes of magic tricks and props.  Please, please contact Dr. H at 806-438-4856 if you hear anything about someone offering to sell this magic.

Mike Williams brings April Fool’s Day magic to the Addison Imrpov Comedy Club.  He has been described as “Funny beyond belief!”, “A stage-grade comic magicians.”, and “A comedian who just happens to be amazing”.  Go to www.improve.com or call 972-404-8501 for more information.

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

The Illusionsts’ Lecture featuring Jeff Hobson and Kevin James is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on April 13 sponsored by the Fort Worth Magician’s Club.  For details about the location and time, contact Fort Worth Magicians’ Club editor Rob Davis at 817-454-7378.

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.

Douglas Raymond Kornegay, born January 21, 1933,
spent a lifetime in the theater – performing, working backstage, and maganing with his wife Donnie. His enthusiasm for magic began at the age of 7, when he received a magic set for his birthday. He soon  became  a  regular  fixture  at  Howard’s  Magic Shop in downtown Houston and, by the age of 15, could boast over 500 public appearances. As a teenager, Doug won a world championship yo-yo title at the 1949 Toronto Exposition. He later became  a  representative  for  the  Duncan  Yo-Yo Company, traveling throughout Mexico, Central and South America promoting the brand.

While serving in the Special Services branch of the United States Army, Doug entertained the troops, touring the U.S. and Japan. After his discharge, he and Donnie  played  theater  circuits throughout the U.S. and Canada. He appeared on The Steve Allen Show, Dave Garroway’s Today, Super Circus and other network television shows.

For more than 50 years, Doug was an active member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, the Society of American Magicians and the Texas Association of Magicians. He was awarded the distinction of being named Dean of Society of American Magicians, Assembly 19; Order of
Merlin –Excalibur by the International Brotherhood of Magicians; Life Member and Order of Willard 50 Year by the Texas Association of Magicians; and served as the President of the Texas Association of Magicians. His performance at the 1966 TAOM convention in Houston, Texas, was awarded “Best of Convention.”

Douglas’ forays into variety entertainment included performing in circuses, owning a small traveling carnival, consulting for films, and promotions for shopping mall openings. He owned the Oak Village Movie Theater in Spring Branch in the 1970s. In more recent years as a 30-plus year member of IATSE Local 51, Doug could be found working back stage in many of Houston’s theaters.

Doug’s death on March 2, 2015, will create a huge void in future TAOM conventions as well as in Houston magic clubs.  Sincere condolences to Donnie and their children.

Claude Crowe, Jr., died unexpectedly at his home on  March 9, 2015.  Claude spent a lifetime devoted to his business, Liberal Finance & Thrift Corp., and his magic. He was an active member of the Texas Association of Magicians, the International Brotherhood of Magicians, the Society of American Magicians, and the Magic Circle of London.  He was founder and first president of the Texas Magic Collector’s Association. He was honored by being named a life member of San Antonio IBM Ring 18 in 2008 and the club hosted a roast in his honor in 2014.

Don Moravits officiated at a service for Claude on March 22 and Alex Gutierrez conducted a Broken Wand Ceremony. The entire Texas magic community has been diminished with the passing of this true gentleman of magic.

Dorothy Stiefel passed away on March 12, 2015, after a prolongedillness. She and her husband Don lived in Corpus Christi and were active in magic circles when her health allowed. She was a member of the Texas Association of Magicians and Don is a Life Member of that organization.

Dorothy held an Associate Degree in Mental Health from Del Mar College where she began her work with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a degenerative hereditary eye disorder.  She suffered from this condition herself and her research helped thousands of people.  She often lectured around the world about the issues confronting persons with the condition and published four books on the subject.

She was an inspiration to all who knew her and will also be remembered for her sense of humor and a life lived with determination and courage in spite of insurmountable odds.

Over half way there, folks!  The 2015 Convention is less than six months away.  Even sooner, the mid-year meeting for officers and club representatives is a little over a month away.  Everyone is welcome to attend the meeting, which should be informative.

The meeting will start at  10:30 a.m. at the Sheraton in downtown Austin.  Mention TAOM to get a special rate if you want to stay at the Sheraton.  The fabulous MAGIC AT THE CAPITOL shows will be at the Scottish Rite Temple that afternoon at 3:30 and 8:00 p.m.

But wait….there’s more!  The night before (Friday, May 1) a bunch of us plan to go to Esther’s Follies on Sixth Street to see Ray Anderson’s wonderful magic variety show.  Call 512 320-0553 to make reservations.  Hope to see you there!                                                         Judy Hollingsworth
TAOM Club Coordinator