2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

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MarkWeidhaas
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2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

Postby MarkWeidhaas » October 30th, 2014, 4:02 am

SAM Convention is Vacation Destination for Magicians and their Families

The 2015 Society of American Magicians (SAM) convention in Philadelphia July 1-4 will be exciting for magicians and their families. Magicians will see fresh new talent perform in the three evening gala shows, including “The transformation of Vaudeville,” “The Heart and Soul of Magic,” and Miguel Puga’s one-man show “Concerto for Piano & Pasteboards.” The professional close-up show features the magic of Spain with Woody Aragon, Hector Mancha, Juan Luis Rubiales and Mario Lopez.

Who will win the prestigious Father Cyprian Murray Stage Magic Contest and the Dr. Paul Critelli Close-Up Magic Contest? And don’t forget the ever-popular “Stars of Tomorrow” show which has been a launching pad for magic’s newest stars.

The SAM will bring back Eric Jones and his team of underground magicians for late-night jam sessions. Select Workshop Sessions will allow you to choose your favorite hands-on learning experience in an intimate setting. The magic lectures will focus on close-up, stage, family entertainers, mentalism and magic history.

Over 20 magic exhibitors from around the world will be featured with ample time to see the newest creations. The SAM banquet will include a surprise performer, the Milbourne Christopher Foundation Awards, and opportunity to congratulate President Kenrick “Ice” McDonald, President-Elect David Bowers and Convention Honoree Ray Goulet.

Bring the kids for the Society of Young Magicians (SYM) All-day Magic Jam on June 30, 2015 which promises to be a fun day of hands-on training for SYM members and young magicians, age 7 to 17, by the SYM's top instructors including David Oliver, Arlen Solomon and Kayla Drescher. A free event included with your youth registration for the SAM Philadelphia Convention.

Philadelphia and the SAM convention is a family destination for all. While the magician in your family is learning from the experts, the non-magician will be entertained with our excellent shows and contests.

In addition, twice daily, the SAM and members of local Assembly #4 will offer free walking tours of historic Philadelphia. See the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the U.S. Mint, and Betsy Ross House, all within a short walking distance of the convention hotel. The SAM will even include FREE admission to National Constitution Center (normally $14.50). You will want to spend hours at this interactive museum dedicated to the US Constitution. Once you see how close these historic landmarks are, you will want to come back at your own leisure, have a cheese steak or pretzel, or visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the steps from Rocky or the Franklin Institute science museum. Don’t forget to end the convention with a bang and the best the best fireworks on Saturday, July 4th at 11 PM.

Philadelphia offers a grand vacation for your entire family. Where’s the best place to celebrate July 4th? The place it all began: Philadelphia.

The convention hotel is located downtown next to the famous Reading Terminal Market, the famous indoor foodie paradise. The Marriott Philadelphia Downtown is located at 1201 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107. Convention registration and hotel reservations can be made at http://magicsam.com/annual-convention/. More info at mark@magicsam.com or samregistrar@yahoo.com.
Mark Weidhaas
S.A.M. National President 2010-2011 and Conference Executive
"You Have a Friend in the S.A.M."

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Re: 2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

Postby MarkWeidhaas » October 30th, 2014, 4:04 am

RAY GOULET TO BE GUEST OF HONOR AT 2015 S.A.M. CONVENTION

Raymond Goulet, owner of The Magic Art Studio and Mini Museum of Magic in Watertown, Massachusetts, to be the Society of American Magicians 2015 Convention Guest of Honor.

Tucked away in a storefront in Watertown, Massachusetts are some of magic’s greatest treasures. There is a straitjacket worn by Harry Houdini and a costume worn by Bess. You will recognize the props of Cardini, The Great Blackstone and the Le Grande David shows. You will see the most complete collection of P&L props imaginable but the greatest treasure inside the “Mini Magic Museum” is its curator, Ray Goulet.

For 40 years Ray Goulet and his wife Ann, toured a traveling show and performed in the country’s finest theatres, the largest outdoor venues imaginable and on 22 trans-Atlantic voyages, including once for the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. After retiring from performing, this Korean War Veteran opened his magic Art Studio in 1976. He quickly added onto this retail magic depot with a small 50 seat theater and mini-museum, all dedicated to conjuring. One can understand why this unique arrangement has created a warm and inspirational gathering place for magicians. Not only do New England magicians gravitate there, and bask in the friendly presence of Ray Goulet, but prominent professionals, advanced amateurs, and leading collectors seek it out.

Ray is an Honorary Member of the S.A.M., serves on the S.A.M. Hall of Fame Board of Directors, Chairman of the S.A.M. Honorary Membership Committee, and a member of the Milbourne Christopher Foundation Awards Committee.

When the annual Society of American Magicians Conference comes to Philadelphia, July 1-4 at the Marriott Philadelphia Downtown, Ray Goulet will be the Guest of Honor. The convention expects to bring 700 Magicians and their families from around the world to Philadelphia for contests, workshops and meetings. Magicians will have opportunities to see and learn from the best in their industry.

Information about the Society founded in 1902 is available at http://www.magicsam.com/. Professional and Amateur Magicians can register for the convention at www.magicsam.com/sam-2015/
Mark Weidhaas
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"You Have a Friend in the S.A.M."

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Re: 2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

Postby MarkWeidhaas » November 7th, 2014, 10:53 am

Looking for a place to eat while you are in Philadelphia? This from local Marc DeSouza:

"Many great food options so close to the convention hotel. Right across the street is the amazing Reading Terminal with so many quick lunch places that are more than just fast food (http://readingterminalmarket.org/).

"We are also only 3 blocks from Chinatown with all of the fantastic
Asian food choices. And there are many of Philly's best sit-down
restaurants in walking distance too. Two of my favorite restaurateur,
Mark Vetri's, places are also blocks away...Osteria (http://osteriaphilly.com/home/) and Alla Spina (http://allaspinaphilly.com/menu/).

"And, you can't leave Philly without a REAL CHEESESTEAK! South Philadelphia has Geno's and Pat's right across from each other. These two places are forever battling for the title of best cheesesteak, but for my money, my favorite is Steve's Prince of Steaks on 16th St., between Market and Chestnut (http://www.stevesprinceofsteaks.com/)."

Also, Maggiano's, Chili's, Panera Bread and Hard Rock Café next door. Less than a block away is a BurgerFi (http://burgerfi.com/) - so good we went twice on our last visit.
Mark Weidhaas
S.A.M. National President 2010-2011 and Conference Executive
"You Have a Friend in the S.A.M."

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Re: 2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

Postby MarkWeidhaas » December 4th, 2014, 3:16 am

The S.A.M. 2015 Philadelphia Convention is a Wise Investment

A very wise man from Philadelphia said, “A penny saved is a penny earned.” You can be wise too. Go to Philadelphia for the Society of American Magicians 2015 convention, July 1-4. Save 2,500 pennies if you register before January 1, 2015. It only makes “cents,” do it today!

The S.A.M. is 2015’s intimate and friendly convention where you will learn from the experts at the many lectures, sessions and shows. The S.A.M. agrees with Benjamin Franklin when he says, “An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.” Bring your family on your magic vacation. There is so much to see and do close by the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown.

Register and reserve your hotel room at http://www.magicsam.com/annual-convention. Still only $250 for S.A.M. members, spouse, or SYM parent and $150 for SYM members and siblings age 7-17 until 12/31/14. Hotel Convention rate is $115 per night. Request additional info by email at samregistrar@yahoo.com or call Anne Weidhaas, S.A.M. Convention Registrar, at 719-338-8169.
Mark Weidhaas
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Re: 2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

Postby MarkWeidhaas » December 12th, 2014, 10:28 am

Intimacy at the SAM Convention Theater

The Harry Houdini Theater at the Philadelphia Marriot Downtown will afford all a visual intimate experience. SAM Show Producer Mike Miller, says “Due to the costs, we simply cannot use an outside theater for our Gala Shows. So we will create an intimate theater in the hotel and use the savings for better programs and benefits for the registrants.” The Harry Houdini Theater will consist of a tall 40” stage for good sight lines and supplemented with state-of-the-art lighting, audio and video. Seating will also be intimate with a capacity of less than 500. Overflow seating in the lounge at the back of the Houdini Theater will offer numerous plasma screens and comfortable chairs and sofas to watch the crispest close-up images. SAM Stage Manager Steven Kline says “We will transform the hotel ballroom into an amazing magician’s theater, complete with drape lining every wall accented with beautiful vintage magic posters.”

Registrants will want to arrive early for the many lectures, SYM Stars of Tomorrow Show and other events in the Houdini Theater, as magic trivia, news updates, and historical clips will be shown. Multi-Media Coordinator Vinny Grosso says, “We are excited to use the latest technologies available. We think the twitter contest, complete with prizes, will be a big hit.” Kline also commented “The live feed will be available for iPads and tablets so every seat can feel like the front row.”

BEAT THE JAN. 1 PRICE INCREASE. Register and reserve your hotel room at http://www.magicsam.com/annual-convention. Still only $250 for S.A.M. members, spouse, or SYM parent and $150 for SYM members and siblings age 7-17 until 12/31/14. Hotel Convention rate is $115 per night. Request additional info by email at samregistrar@yahoo.com or call Anne Weidhaas, S.A.M. Convention Registrar, at 719-338-8169.
Mark Weidhaas
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"You Have a Friend in the S.A.M."

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Re: 2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

Postby MarkWeidhaas » December 24th, 2014, 2:51 pm

Late Night Underground Sessions with Mike Kaminskas, Kainoa Harbottle, Eric Jones and Dan Hauss

At the S.A.M. national convention this summer, attendees will be presented with a unique opportunity: the chance to session each night with four talented, up-and-coming, young close-up magicians. The sessions will start, as all good sessions do, late in the evening after the evening shows and will probably go until the wee small hours of the morning. The performers who will share and facilitate the sessions are Dan Hauss, Eric Jones, Mike Kaminskas, and Kainoa Harbottle.

The S.A.M. convention is in Philadelphia, July 1, 2, 3, and 4, 2015. Philadelphia offers a grand vacation for your entire family. Where’s the best place to celebrate July 4th? The place it all began: Philadelphia.

The convention hotel is located downtown next to the Reading Terminal Market, the famous indoor foodie paradise. The Marriott Philadelphia Downtown is located at 1201 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107. Convention registration and hotel reservations can be made at http://magicsam.com/annual-convention/. More info at samregistrar@yahoo.com.
Mark Weidhaas
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Re: 2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

Postby MarkWeidhaas » January 15th, 2015, 1:23 am

S.A.M. SELECT SESSIONS IN PHILADELPHIA – Marketing for Entertainers LIVE!

"Select Sessions" at the 2015 S.A.M. Convention are intimate, smaller group sessions of hands-on learning with audience discussion and interaction. SELECT is a play on words, as this is a special, superior discussion and there are concurrent sessions so the conventioneer will have to select the topic that is most meaningful for them.

Three Select Sessions learning tracks will be presented: Wiz Biz, The Assembly Matters, and Basic Training.

One of the Wiz Biz Select Sessions will be “Marketing for Entertainers Live” facilitated by Chad Wonder. Chad is the moderator of the dynamic Facebook group “Marketing for Entertainers” with almost 2,000 performer members. Learn the best marketing secrets from over a thousand years of collective advice in 60 minutes. Chad will share some of the best ideas from this group. Bring your smart phone, tablet or laptop and log into Facebook and the Marketing for Entertainers group to see responses from performers around the world, Live!

Notes and other useful information from each Select Session will be provided to all convention registrants.

The S.A.M. convention is in Philadelphia, July 1, 2, 3, and 4, 2015. Philadelphia offers a grand vacation for your entire family. Where’s the best place to celebrate July 4th? The place it all began: Philadelphia.

The convention hotel is located downtown next to the Reading Terminal Market, the famous indoor foodie paradise. The Marriott Philadelphia Downtown is located at 1201 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107. Convention registration and hotel reservations can be made at http://magicsam.com/annual-convention/
Mark Weidhaas
S.A.M. National President 2010-2011 and Conference Executive
"You Have a Friend in the S.A.M."

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Re: 2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

Postby MarkWeidhaas » February 12th, 2015, 3:06 am

SIX GREAT SHOWS SET FOR 2015 S.A.M. CONVENTION IN PHILADELPHIA

Join us for all the excitement of the Society of American Magicians’ 2015 Convention, July 1-4 in Philadelphia. Amazing stage shows announce:

Miguel Puga (FISM World Champion) and his Concerto for Piano and Pasteboards, an unusual concert with two players, four hands, a piano and a deck of cards.

Witness the Transformation of Vaudeville with Jonathan Burns, Scott Alexander, Lee Germaine and Judy, Andy Dallas, and Lindsay Benner.

Magic of Spain offers international flavor with the Close-up Experience starring Hector Mancha, Woody Aragon, Mario Lopez and Jaun Luis Rubiales.

The Heart and Soul of Magic features the talented African-American magicians Ran’d Shine, Eric Anderson, Jamahl Keyes, Puck, and Mondre.

The SYM Stars of Tomorrow Show features the absolute best young magicians age 17 and under.

Who will win the S.A.M. combined Fr. Cyprian Murray Stage Contest and Paul Critelli Close-up Contest?

All this at the family friendly location with so many options for food nearby and twice daily FREE walking tours of Historic Philadelphia.

Register and reserve your hotel room and see more detail’s at www.magicsam.com. Only $275 for S.A.M. members, spouse, or SYM parent and $175 for SYM members and siblings age 7-17 until 3/1/14. Hotel Convention rate is $115 per night.
Mark Weidhaas
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Re: 2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

Postby MarkWeidhaas » March 18th, 2015, 11:08 pm

The Heart and Soul of Magic is the Saturday night Gala Show at the S.A.M. Convention, July 4, 2015 in Philadelphia. It will feature the magical talents of Eric Anderson, Mondre, Puck, Jamahl Keyes and Ran’d Shine. It will begin at 7:30, allowing plenty of time to see the 10:30 fireworks show at “the place where it began – Philadelphia.”

On Friday, July 3, Ran'd Shine will moderate a panel of experts including Hiawatha Johnson, Jr., Rory Rennick, and Jim Magnus about the history of African-American Magicians.

See why the S.A.M. Convention is great at https://youtu.be/xwoJzmZL7-8 and register now at http://www.magicsam.com
Mark Weidhaas
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Re: 2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

Postby MarkWeidhaas » May 26th, 2015, 10:33 pm

Lots of magic to see, learn and inspire in Philadelphia at the SAM Convention, July 1-4. But, also so much for your family to experience, and so much of it is free. Join us for a magic vacation! Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Magic

Bring your family with you and they will have as much fun as you! The convention hotel is right in the middle of all the festivities. Free outdoor movies (Rocky at the Museum of Art steps), Free Hoagie on Thursday, free concerts at Independence Hall.

But remember: BOOK YOUR HOTEL ROOM NOW. THE MARRIOTT WILL SELL OUT AND YOU WILL NOT GET THE REDUCED RATE IF YOU DO NOT BOOK IN THE NEXT WEEK!

Here is the line-up of activities for your family:

R&B star Miguel and Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles will take the stage on the 4th and The Roots will once again be the house band for the concert.

There will also be a big block party on July 3rd. It will be on 5th and 6th streets between Market and Chestnut.

The 2015 edition of the Wawa Welcome America festival will also feature movies on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Hoagie, concerts on Penn's Landing, the annual Party on the Parkway and much more.

Here is the schedule of events:

SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2015

WHAT: Family Day
WHERE: The Shops at Liberty Place, 1625 Chestnut Street
WHEN: Noon - 4:00 p.m.

Family Day at the Shops at Liberty Place gives families the opportunity to enjoy activities celebrating the 150th anniversary of the first reading of "Alice In Wonderland," and they can let their creativity shine with tons of arts and crafts and more.

SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 2015

WHAT: Wawa Welcome America! Community Day
WHERE: Port Richmond
WHEN: Noon - 4:00 p.m.

A new addition to the schedule is the Wawa Welcome America! Community Day, which will be held in Philadelphia's Port Richmond neighborhood. Residents and visitors are invited to join us for an afternoon of activities and music in one of Philadelphia's many great neighborhoods.

MONDAY, JUNE 29, 2015

WHAT: FREE Admission to the Franklin Institute
Courtesy of Wawa
WHERE: Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th St
WHEN: 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Gather your friends and enjoy a free day at the Franklin Institute, courtesy of Wawa. You will have the chance to visit the interactive Wawa Dairy exhibit to discover the science behind dairy farming and production and to learn about the evolution of Wawa Dairy Farms and Philadelphia's favorite convenience store. General admission includes access to three floors of interactive exhibits, explosive science shows and hands-on demonstrations and a show in the Fels Planetarium.

WHAT: Go 4th & Learn About Science
WHERE: Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th St
WHEN: 10:00 a.m. - Noon

All Go 4th & Learn events include special readings, free book giveaways and educational fun! The first 800 kids will receive a free book courtesy of Duffy Books in Homes USA.

WHAT: Philly @ The Movies: "Big Hero 6"
WHERE: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th Street
WHEN: 8:30 p.m.

For the kick-off of the 2015 Philly @ The Movies series, attendees can view one of this year's must-see films for children and adults alike, Disney's "Big Hero 6".

TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2015

WHAT: FREE Admission to the Philadelphia History Museum
In Partnership with PECO
WHERE: Philadelphia History Museum, 15 S. 7th Street
WHEN: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Learn about the rich history of the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection at the Philadelphia History Museum. The museum will be open for free to the public all day as part of the Wawa Welcome America! Festival.

WHAT: Go 4th & Learn About Philadelphia
WHERE: Philadelphia History Museum, 15 S. 7th Street
WHEN: 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

All Go 4th & Learn events include special readings, free book giveaways and educational fun! The first 800 kids will receive a free book courtesy of Duffy Books in Homes USA.

WHAT: Philly @ The Movies: "Annie"
WHERE: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street
WHEN: 8:30 p.m.

The Philly @ The Movies series continues with a free screening of the newly adapted version of "Annie," a tale of a precocious orphan girl with a big personality and heart of gold.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2015

WHAT: FREE Admission to the African American Museum in Philadelphia
In partnership with PECO
WHERE: African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch Street
WHEN: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Visit the African American Museum in Philadelphia to experience the richness and vibrancy of African American heritage and culture in four exhibition galleries filled with exciting history and fascinating art. The museum will be open for free to the public all day as part of the Wawa Welcome America! Festival.

WHAT: Go 4th & Learn About Fitness
WHERE: Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, 3500 Reservoir Drive
WHEN: 10:00 a.m. - Noon

The Go 4th & Learn series continues with a morning of fitness and fun at the Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, a 6.5 acre playground that includes the Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide and more than 50 unique, child-friendly, and accessible pieces of play equipment. All Go 4th & Learn events include special readings, free book giveaways and educational fun! The first 800 kids will receive a free book courtesy of Duffy Books in Homes USA.

WHAT: Philly @ The Movies: "Rocky"
WHERE: Philadelphia Museum of Art, 26th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
WHEN: 9:00 p.m.

Philly @ The Movies continues with a free screening of "Rocky," the iconic boxing film shot in and around Philadelphia. Movie-goers will watch this classic from the very steps that made Rocky a lifelong legend.

THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015

WHAT: FREE Admission to the National Constitution Center
WHERE: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street
WHEN: 9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Wawa invites you to enjoy a free day at the National Constitution Center, including access to new exhibitions that open this summer. A special Wawa display will feature Wawa's commitment to military, fire and police.

WHAT: Go 4th & Learn About History
WHERE: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street
WHEN: 10:00 a.m. - Noon

All Go 4th & Learn events include special readings, free book giveaways and educational fun! The first 800 kids will receive a free book courtesy of Duffy Books in Homes USA.

WHAT: PHL Photo Exhibit "About Philadelphia: A City of Firsts"
WHERE: Philadelphia International Airport, Terminal A-East, 8000 Essington Avenue
WHEN: 10:00 a.m.

"About Philadelphia" is a photo exhibition that celebrates the City's historic American firsts. Travelers going through the Airport can visit the exhibit to learn more. This exhibit is open to ticketed passengers only.

WHAT: Wawa Hoagie Day
WHERE: Independence Mall, Market Street Between 5th and 6th Streets
WHEN: Noon - 1:30 p.m.

The 23rd annual Wawa Hoagie Day, which focuses on honoring our troops and expanding Wawa's partnership with the USO, will begin with a salute to local and national heroes - our military, firemen and police officers. Wawa hoagies will be distributed FREE to the crowd. The event will include a special appearance by Food Network Chef Robert Irvine and performances by NBC's "The Voice" contestants Matthew Schuler and Audra McLaughlin, as well as the USO Show Troupe.

WHAT: Philadelphia Orchestra Neighborhood Concert
WHERE: Great Plaza @ Penn's Landing, 101 S. Columbus Blvd.
WHEN: 8:00 p.m.

The world-renowned Philadelphia Orchestra presents a FREE Neighborhood Concert on the RiverStage at the Great Plaza.

WHAT: Philly @ The Movies: "The Sixth Sense"
WHERE: Rittenhouse Park, 210 W. Rittenhouse Square
WHEN: 9:00 p.m.

The Philly @ The Movies series concludes with "The Sixth Sense," directed and written by Philadelphia native M. Night Shyamalan and also filmed throughout Philadelphia. In this spooky tale, a young boy communicates with spirits that only he can see.

FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2015

WHAT: Liberty Block Party
WHERE: 5th and 6th Streets Between Market and Chestnut Streets
WHEN: 1:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

The largest block party of the summer, the Liberty Block Party, offers Philadelphia residents and visitors an opportunity to explore the city's diverse food scene and some of its finest live entertainment. Entry and entertainment are free; however, food and drinks must be purchased.

WHAT: POPS! On Independence
WHERE: Steps of Independence Hall, 6th and Chestnut Streets
WHEN: 8:00 p.m.

The Philly Pops! return to celebrate America's birthday with POPS! On Independence, a free concert at Independence Hall. Conductor Michael Krajewski and soloists Capathia Jenkins and Darius de Haas will take part in this year's show. Seating is first come, first served, and concert goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy one of Philadelphia's most popular Fourth of July traditions.

SATURDAY, JULY 4, 2015

WHAT: Celebration of Freedom Ceremony
WHERE: Steps of Independence Hall, 6th and Chestnut Streets
WHEN: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Philadelphians and visitors can pay tribute to our nation at the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony featuring music, inspiring remarks, and a reading of excerpts from the Declaration of Independence, among other special elements. This year's ceremony commemorates the 50th anniversary of the first major LGBTQ protest in the United States, the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the 50th anniversary of the Immigration & Nationality Act of 1965, and the 150th anniversary of the addition of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. A naturalization ceremony for new American citizens will also be included in the program.

WHAT: Independence Day Parade
WHERE: Throughout Historic Philadelphia
WHEN: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Starting in front of Independence Hall, more than 6,000 participants from across the nation - including Miss America 2015, marching bands, floats, military organizations and several special performance teams - will be taking part in the annual Independence Day Parade through Historic Philadelphia. Spectators of all ages will enjoy the patriotic pageantry of the most diverse Independence Day Parade in the country as it winds through the nation's most historic square mile. Parade Route: The parade begins at 5th and Chestnut Streets, then travels West on Chestnut Street to 9th Street. It then turns right onto 9th Street, before heading down Market Street toward Front Street. The parade finishes by marching down Front Street to Chestnut Street. Total route is 1.2 miles long.

WHAT: Let Freedom Ring Ceremony
WHERE: Independence National Historical Park, 6th and Market Streets
WHEN: 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

The Sons of the American Revolution program starts on Independence Square & concludes with symbolic tapping of Liberty Bell by Descendants of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence in Liberty Bell Pavilion.

WHAT: Party on the Parkway
WHERE: Benjamin Franklin Parkway, 20th Street to Eakins Oval
WHEN: Noon - 7:00 p.m.

The highly anticipated, day-long Party on the Parkway features blocks of exciting activities, games, entertainment and food fit for the whole family. Pogopalooza, the world championship of extreme pogo, and the U.S. Olympic Committee's Road to Rio Tour will be among the many activities on the Parkway. Party on the Parkway offers a wealth of musical programming throughout the day on the Global Music and Questlove Stages.

WHAT: Philly 4th of July Jam and Grand Finale Fireworks
WHERE: Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Benjamin Franklin Parkway at Eakins Oval
WHEN: 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

The Wawa Welcome America! Philly 4th of July Jam takes place each year on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and is followed by a fireworks display over the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Past performers include: Nicki Minaj, Ed Sheeran, John Mayer, J.Cole, Grace Potter, Jill Scott, Common, Joe Jonas, Queen Latifah, Lauryn Hill and more. 6ABC returns as the festival's local media partner, broadcasting the concert live in the Philadelphia region. The 2015 Philly 4th of July Jam stars The Roots, with special guests Miguel and Jennifer Nettles. The show will be immediately followed by a fireworks spectacular, brought to you by Discovery's Shark Week. Additional details about Wawa Welcome America!'s musical performances will be made available online.

Other organizations and attractions will host free events throughout the city during the festival week and even extending past the Fourth of July. Visitors will be able to check the Wawa Welcome America! website for a list of these partner events.
Mark Weidhaas
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"You Have a Friend in the S.A.M."

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Re: 2015 SAM Philadelphia Convention

Postby MarkWeidhaas » June 24th, 2015, 2:08 am

Long post, but here is the latest info you need to know:

Only one more week until “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Magic!” The convention committee has been working very hard to bring to you a friendly, intimate and unforgettable experience. Here is the latest update to help make YOUR convention more pleasurable.

GETTING THERE: If you are flying into the airport, we can suggest Express Airport Shuttle at $9 per person, one way.If you have a car, you can park at the Hotel. At convention registration, there will be a supply of discount coupons which will bring the cost down to about $20/day. Or, you can park 2 blocks from the hotel for $15 per 24 hour period at a new garage. Just ask us NOW for the coupons needed (you print them before you arrive) for the off-sight parking or airport shuttle.

ARRIVE JUNE 30: You may want to arrive early. Bring the kids for the SYM Magic Jam sessions for youth, ages 7 - 17 and begins June 30 at 1:00. This is a free event included with your youth registration for the SAM Philadelphia Convention.

Also on June 30 at 8:00 PM, Philadelphia Assembly #4 invites you to a special presentation at the Liberty Ballroom of the hotel featuring performances by 14+ S.A.M. Past National Presidents. This is a free event, so invite your friends and be a part of history. Join us afterwards at Circ restaurant/bar at the hotel lobby floor.

REGISTRATION: Early registration will open the evening of June 30, 6:00 – 8:00. On our first official day, Wednesday, July 1, registration will open at 7:30 AM till 5:00 PM. The S.A.M. National Council Meeting is on July 1 at 8:30 AM. If this is your first S.A.M. convention, be sure to attend a brief orientation of what to expect at noon.

BRING THE FAMILY: Philadelphia and the SAM convention is a family destination for all. While the magician in your family is learning from the experts, the non-magician will be entertained with our excellent shows and contests.

In addition, twice daily July 1 and 2 and the morning of July 3, the SAM and members of local Assembly #4 will offer free walking tours of historic Philadelphia. See the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the U.S. Mint, and Betsy Ross House, all within a short walking distance of the convention hotel. The SAM will even include FREE admission to the National Constitution Center (normally $14.50). You will want to spend hours at this interactive museum dedicated to the US Constitution. Once you see how close these historic landmarks are, you will want to come back at your own leisure, have a cheese steak or pretzel, or visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art (special impressionist exhibit featuring Monet, Renoir, Manet, Pissarro, and Degas) and the steps from Rocky or the Franklin Institute science museum (featuring an exhibit of Genghis Gahn). All week, Wawa Welcome America will have free concerts and events and don’t forget to end the convention with a bang and the best fireworks on Saturday, July 4th at 10:30 PM (plenty of time after our last show).

SPEAKING OF SHOWS: Magicians and the public will see fresh new talent perform in the three evening gala shows, including “The Transformation of Vaudeville,” “The Heart and Soul of Magic,” and Miguel Puga’s one-man show “Concerto for Piano & Pasteboards.” The professional close-up show features the magic of Spain with Woody Aragon, Hector Mancha, Juan Luis Rubiales and Mario Lopez. And don’t forget the ever-popular “Stars of Tomorrow” show which has been a launching pad for magic’s newest stars. Additional tickets for these events are available for $25 at registration.

SPECIAL VIEWING OF HOUDINI’S FIRST FILM: THE GRIM GAME: We are fortunate that this long lost film has only recently been restored by Turner Classic Movies and will be shown in our Houdini Theater. Scranton, PA Houdini Museum curators Dorothy Dietrich and Dick Brookz will introduce and answer questions.

SAM LATE NIGHT: The SAM will bring back Eric Jones and his team of underground magicians for late-night jam sessions and a chance to session each night with four talented, up-and-coming, young close-up magicians. The sessions will start, as all good sessions do, late in the evening after the evening shows and will probably go until the wee small hours of the morning. The performers who will share and facilitate the sessions are Dan Hauss, Eric Jones, Mike Kaminskas, and Kainoa Harbottle. Bring your cards, coins, and learn and share ideas.

LECTURES and SELECT SESSIONS: There will be many opportunities to learn from the best. We will offer 9 lectures and 6 Select Sessions. The magic lectures will focus on close-up, stage, family entertainers, mentalism and magic history. Select hands-on Workshop Sessions will allow you to choose your favorite learning experience in an intimate setting with a focus on “The Assembly Matters” “Wiz Biz” and “Basic Training.”

MAGIC EXHIBITORS: Over 20 magic exhibitors from around the world will be featured with ample time to see the newest creations. When you walk into the Harry Kellar Exhibior Hall, don’t forget to sign-up for the intimate demonstration workshops to be held in Martinka’s Backroom.

SAM BANQUET: The SAM banquet will include hors d'oeuvres, the Milbourne Christopher Foundation Awards and surprise guests, the only chance to see the comedy magic of Mike Bent, and opportunity to congratulate President Kenrick “Ice” McDonald, President-Elect David Bowers and Convention Honoree Ray Goulet. Remember to dress up as we have plans for special group and individual photos. The banquet is an extra cost event but always includes an amazing dinner with old and new friends. Please reserve your dinner at registration before noon on July 1: $70 .

SCHEDULE: The schedule is always changing, but we have included our latest at the bottom of this email for your viewing pleasure.

PHOTOGRAPHY: This year, M-U-M Magazine wants to showcase the national convention in Philadelphia through the eyes of those attending. We’re looking for photographs that capture the fun and camaraderie of this great get-together in the City of Brotherly Love. So get out your cameras and your smartphones and start capturing those special memories. While you won’t be able to take photos during performances, there will be opportunities for you to take photos at the end of each show. Make sure you’re taking high resolution shots (at least 300 dpi for print). Be creative.

If your photograph is chosen to appear in M-U-M, you’ll receive credit and a surprise SAM gift (could be a hat, a t-shirt, it'll be a surprise) as our thanks. You can upload your photos to the web by using twitter or Instagram, using the hashtag #SAMmagic, tag @sammagicians, or post directly to the “SAM Annual Conference” Facebook page. If confused, we will provide instructions during the convention. Have fun and start clicking.

HOTEL: The convention hotel is the Marriott Philadelphia Downtown, 1201 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, located downtown and next to the Reading Terminal Market, the famous indoor foodie paradise.

MEMORIES and REMINDERS: Each day, stop by registration for your daily “swag” gift. It could be a convention poster (Autograph session with the stars in Martinka’s Backroom at 10:00 PM, July 1), Philadelphia snack, or SAM brag item. On the last day, each registrant will receive the access code to photos, videos, select Lecture and Session notes, SAM information, and select trick demos from all the talent, dealers and SAM officials. This is our gift to you to remember the amazing time you had where it all began: Philadelphia.

LATEST INFO: Immediately before and during the convention, the best place to get the latest information is the convention facebook page. Please “like,” follow, and post on “SAM Annual Conference.”

QUESTIONS: We are here to help. Please reply to this email (samregistrar@yahoo.com) with your questions.

JULY 13-16, 2016 INDIANAPOLIS: Register for Indianapolis at the convention to get best seating and lowest rate. New this year, only $60 will hold your reservation, with remainder due Feb. 15, 2016. Reserve at the convention and receive an Indianapolis convention pin.

2015 Philadelphia Convention Schedule (subject to change)
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm SYM Magic Jam Cardini Parlour
1:00 pm SAM Magic Center Meeting Room 409
2:00 pm SAM Magic Endowment Fund Mtg Rm 409
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Early Registration open Registration 1
8:00 pm SAM Past Presidents Show Liberty Ballroom
10:00 pm After-Assembly Libations (dutch treat)Circ Bar

Wednesday, July 1, 2015
7:30 am – 5:00 pm Registration Open Registration 1
9:00 am SAM National Council Mtg Thurston Lecture Hall
9:00 am – 12:00 pm Alt. Event: Philly walking tour Registration 1
9:00 am – 12:00 pm SYM Magic Jam William Andrews Mtg Room
10:30 am Lecture 1: Eric Anderson Houdini Theater
11:00 am – 4:00 pm Vendor Exposition Kellar’s Exhibitor Hall
12:00 pm – 12:15 pm New Attendee Orientation Houdini Theater
1:30 pm – 4:30 pm Alt. Event: Philly walking tour Registration 1
1:30 pm Welcome & Tech Tutorial Houdini Theater
2:00 pm Lecture 2: Hector Mancha Houdini Theater
4:00 pm Lecture 3: Tom Ewing Thurston Lecture Hall
History of Philadelphia Magic
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm Magic Circle Reception Presidential Suite
8:00 pm Showtime! Houdini Theater
Transformation of Vaudeville
Pre-show close-up provided by SYM members
10:00 pm – 12:00 am Vendor Exposition Kellar’s Exhibitor Hall
10:00 pm Autographs with the Stars Martinka’s Backroom
11:00 pm Underground Magic: focus cards
Kaminskas & Hauss

Thursday, July 2, 2015
8:00 am – 5:00 pm Registration Open Registration 1
9:00 am Lecture 4: Alexander & Puck Houdini Theater
9:00 am – 12:00 pm Alt. Event: Philly walking tour Registration 1
11:00 am Dealer/Vendor Demonstrations Houdini Theater
Michael Close, Emcee
12:00 pm – 6:00 pm Vendors Exposition Kellar’s Exhibitor Hall
Showcase and Workshops Martinka’s Backroom
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm Houdini Movie Screening Houdini Theater
“The Grim Game” intro by Dietrich & Brookz
1:30 pm – 4:30 pm Alt. Event: Philly walking tour Registration 1
3:00 pm A Night at the Museum Houdini Theater
Ray Goulet interviewed by Mike Bent
4:00 pm Select Sessions 1
So You Want to be on AGT? Cardini Parlour
With Scott Alexander and Puck
Marketing for Entertainers Thurston Lecture
With Chad Wonder
8:00 pm Showtime! Houdini Theater
Pro Close-up Show: The Magic of Spain
Pre-show close-up provided by SYM members
10:00 pm Underground Magic: focus coins
Jones & Harbottle
10:30 pm Lecture 5: Bruce Kalver Houdini Theater
Tech Talk LIVE
11:30 pm Invisible Lodge Thurston Lecture Hall

Friday, July 3, 2015
9:00 am – 3:00 pm Registration Open Registration 1
9:00 am – 12:00 pm Alt. Event: Philly walking tour Registration 1
9:00 am SAM Member Recognition
10:00 am Lecture 6: Woody Aragon Houdini Theater
11:00 am – 4:00 pm Vendors Exposition Kellar’s Exhibitor Hall
Showcase and Workshops Martinka’s Backroom
1:00 pm Lecture 7: Joe Romano Houdini Theater
C.I.A.: Ultimate School Show Secrets
2:30 pm Select Sessions 2
Summit-Up: Assembly Tune-up
With Vinny Grosso
Hi on Magic Thurston Lecture Hall
With Hiawatha Johnson, Jr.
4:00 pm Cocktail Reception Independence Ballroom
5:00 pm SAM Banquet Liberty Ballroom
(extra charge event) Christopher Awards,Presidential Exchange,
Comedy of Mike Bent
8:00 pm Showtime! Houdini Theater
Concerto for Piano & Pasteboards
Pre-show close-up provided by SYM members
10:00 pm Underground Magic: out of focus
Jones, Hauss, Kaminskas, Harbottle

Saturday, July 4, 2015
9:00 am – 12:00 pm Registration Open Registration 1
Register for SAM 2016 Convention - Indianapolis July 13-16, 2016
And get your free SAM Swag!
9:00 am Lecture 8: Panel Discussion
History of African-American Magicians
10:00 am – 1:00 pm Vendors Exposition
Showcase and Workshops
10:30 am Lecture 9: Miguel Puga
1:30 pm Stars of Tomorrow Show
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm Vendor Exposition
Last Chance!
3:00 pm Select Sessions 3
Hands on Mentalism
With Joseph Curcillo III
Magic Club Ethics
With Sara Crasson, Steven Spence, Eric Jones
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm SAM Life Members
Reception Guest Speaker: Adele Friel Rhindress
7:30 pm Showtime!
Heart and Soul of Magic
Pre-show close-up provided by SYM members
10:30 pm Philadelphia 4th Fireworks
Mark Weidhaas
S.A.M. National President 2010-2011 and Conference Executive
"You Have a Friend in the S.A.M."


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