2024 Year in Review

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Dustin Stinett
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2024 Year in Review

Postby Dustin Stinett » January 1st, 2025, 12:01 am

The Genii Forum’s Review of 2024

It seems like it was just the other day that we all embarked on the journey that was 2024, but here we are already; 2025. The biggest thing that happened in the last year was the announcement that Genii was moving into the new year with a new crew. What that means for the Genii Forum is still up in the air. There are changes brewing in the magazine’s online presence, so all we can declare now is, as our old friend Pete Biro would say, “Stay tooned.” In the meantime, enjoy our look back at the year that was.

January

On the Cover of Genii: Armando Lucero
Image

Your Erdnase Fix

One hour and 55 minutes of a documentary on Expert at the Card Table:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTVpY3ZPoIk

They Said They Said …

Issues between the Academy of Magical Arts (AMA) and Magic Castle Enterprises (MCE) heats up with a letter from the AMA to its membership accusing the MCE of (essentially) threatening to evict the AMA from its clubhouse. MCE flatly denies it, and the rhetoric race was on.

Some AMA Misdirection(?)

With all the hubbub going on at the AMA, the organization starts the New Year by announcing the recipients of their 2023 Fellowships, which will be presented at their annual Awards Show in May:

Masters Fellowship: Teller

Lifetime Achievement: The Davenport Family

Performing Fellowship for Parlor Magic: Steve Cohen

Performing Fellowship for Stage Magic: Jorge Blass

Creative Fellowship: Mario the Maker

Literary & Media Fellowship: Paul Romhany

Special Fellowships: Scott Wells, Mike Miller, and Willie Kennedy

Outstanding Junior Achievement: Day Mori

2023 Magician of the Year: Piff the Magic Dragon

Getting Stalked Starting on April Fools’ Day

Penn & Teller presented a pair of performers who fooled them with more than an appearance in their Las Vegas show. They backed an illusion show by Swedish magic pair Peter Brynolf and Jonas Ljung titled Stalker. It is a mix of magic and mentalism slated to open off Broadway on April 1. (The show would ultimately run through September 1.)

Contests! We Need More Contests!

Member JHostler uses a clever riddle on the Genii Forum to give away a couple of books—he was merely thinking of a number, the clue to which was the post itself. None of the guesses were correct, but those who were close enough won the prizes. The winners never revealed their identities.

Genii Writers’ Road Trip … and We Do Love a Mystery

John Bannon and Tom Dobrowolski, both writers for Genii (columnist and reviewer, respectively), take their acts across the Atlantic announcing a workshop to take place in Manchester, England at a “secret location.”

Potter & Potter & Eddie Dawes

Potter & Potter posts its catalog for the coming Dr. Eddie Dawes auction, scheduled for February 24. Yours truly posted the results (a total price sans premium of $723,030) at the end of the thread here:
viewtopic.php?t=55152


February

On the Cover of Genii: Ponta the Smith
Image

(Don’t ask us why this picture is so big …)

It Pays to Pay Attention

While P&P has a lot of shiny objects, bargains galore were to be had during Haversat & Ewing's Winter Auction in early February. Oh sure there were some high-priced gets, including a Fu-Manchu signed photo ($1,092), a rare Ramses calling card ($2,655), a Houdini-signed SAM membership card ($1,091), a Malini postcard ($856), and an Augustus Rapp flyer ($1,121).

But the vast majority of the 309 lots went for far less, many in the double-digits, and there were many outright bargains for the collector. Just a few included a two-piece lot of Richiardi Jr. ephemera (a handbill and a broadside) for a mere $77. All five volumes of Roberto Giobbi’s Card College series for just $83. For only $77 you could take home (actually have delivered to you; these auctions are online only) two P&L props; a Phantom Tube and a set of copper Rice Bowls. A lot of Paul Harris’s early books was had for just $47. All six Camirand Masters of Magic series monographs went for $30. A Vernon signed copy of Revelations sold for just $148, and the four-volume set of The Vernon Chronicles was just $118. For $53 you could have three Dante promo pieces including the famous Trunk Book, which alone usually fetches much more than that! And there were some items from Jon Racherbaumer’s personal collection including his Johnson Products Chop Cup ($112) and his four-piece set of Joe Mogar Color Changing Knives for just $89. The point? Pay attention to H&E’s auctions, too!

Mr. Mitchell Rides Again

Craig Mitchell reviews the 2024 Blackpool convention as only he can:

Day One: viewtopic.php?t=55178
Day Two: viewtopic.php?t=55180
Day Three: viewtopic.php?t=55183

Deep Fake a Fake?

MSNBC says a magician was paid to create fake robocalls from President Biden urging people not to vote. While politics are a no-no here, no one really seemed to care one way or the other.

"A riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma"

While PM Winston Churchill said that in 1939 about some wartime geopolitical shenanigans, these days it could be applied to the late Karl Fulves, at least for the majority of magicians. David Ben notes that Magicana’s publication, Magicol No. 200, will have what he describes as “the definitive biography of Karl Fulves” and that “It is an amazing story.”

Get Bent

Uri Geller and a BBC reporter “face off” in a spoon bending competition:
https://www.bbc.com/news/av/uk-68419486

No Nightmare Here

William Lindsay Gresham (1902 – 1962) has written at least two books, of disparate genres, that are of interest to magicians. Nightmare Alley, a novel so great that has been in print since first published in 1946 and has been adapted into two films and even a musical. Then, in 1959, his crowning achievement—if you ask the average fan of Houdini—was a biography: Houdini: The Man Who Walked Through Walls. If you want to learn more about what made this author tick, particularly when it comes to magic and its allied crafts, then you must read this interview of the Forum’s own Diego Domingo:
https://fellowdustmag.com/2024/02/07/wi ... o-domingo/


March

On the Cover of Genii: Pop Haydn
Image

Your Automata Fix

A video tour of the Museum of Automata in York, England (which unfortunately is closed):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzOgsaXO7BE

Capehart Fools ‘em … or Did He?

Chris Capehart appears on Penn & Teller: Fool Us and officially fools the duo, but some question it. The pair does have a history of giving the benefit of the doubt to the greats of the craft, including Mark Wilson and David Roth. Enjoy the master’s turn here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqMj-isIjAQ

It Can Be Done

Mark Lewis teaches the world how to fan a Svengali Deck …
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUPnbilWnXI

Honesty the Best Policy

Comments about last year’s less than stellar production of Derren Brown’s Unbelievable, a show that did not star the star, more or less faded away; along with the show. Craig Mitchell reports that Andy Nyman, on a podcast, was brutally honest about the experience:

“We knew it was going to be hard but not this hard”
“It was agony”
“It was torture”
“It was painful”

AMA Board Election Results Announced

In 2024, the AMA Board of Directors had three seats open, the winners of that election were:

Ed Alonzo*
Kathy Gruver*
Christopher Grant
(*incumbent)

Making the full BOD as follows:

Mark Wooster, President
Saratoga Ballantine, Vice-President
Christopher Grant, Treasurer
Kathy Gruver, Secretary
Ed Alonzo
Rick Gerber
Marcie Hume
Kenrick "Ice" McDonald,
Larry Wilmore

The Board of Trustees had all seats open. A few of the popular group termed out and one chose not to run again, leaving those seats open to new members. All of the eligible incumbents retained their positions.

The BOT in 2024 is:

Christopher Hart*, Chair
Mike Caveney*, Co-Vice Chair
Jonathan Levit*, Co-Vice Chair
Elizabeth Messick, Secretary
Dennis Forel
David Kovic
Dr. Dana Lebental
(*incumbent)

Didn’t Quite Make it, But …

Member Timmy_TMD of The Magic Duck begins an industrious undertaking called the “52 Weeks Project”; an eBook download a week that would be free through his site. As 2024 had 53 weeks in it, the plan was for 53 eBooks. He made it to 17 (and, of course, there were people who complained … we left the cute ones up). But they were, in fact, free, and they are all still there.
https://amagicduck.com/pages/52-weeks-project


April

On the Cover of Genii: Rachel Wax
Image

Persi Speaks

The taciturn—at least when it comes to magic—Persi Diaconis is interviewed about magic … 13 years ago (it is on page 27):
https://archive.org/details/NatureMagaz ... 1/mode/1up

Nicole Cardoza Tour Features Magic and History

The Guardian publishes an article about American magician Nicole Cardoza whose show features magic as well as the history of Black performers who came before her:
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/202 ... le-cardoza

Six Hours Might Cover It

Woody Aragon holds two three-hour Zoom sessions zoom seminar on the Gilbreath principle.

Mark Lewis Gets Buzzed

Mark Lewis appears on Canada’s Got Talent, and you’ll never guess what happens:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Id4703fH33o

Your Vernon Fix

Dai Vernon makes an appearance on an Australian chat show in the 1980s:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inxkGVuOcKM

It Is Just a Card Trick, But …

It has been called the “Holy Grail” of card tricks; the perfect Any Card At Any Number (ACAAN). Emily Robinson-Hardy performs her version for Penn & Teller, and it fools the duo. (Interestingly, in August, Robinson-Hardy and her collaborator tip the method at MAGIC Live. In the long thread that has this performance, that method is posited as a possible solution.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47Mg1LwN6FQ

Stone, Arkane, Gaston, and The Magic Castle

A marvelous show as seen at The Magic Castle, courtesy of the show’s artists:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uks7PQPtmk8


May

On the Cover of Genii: Paul Vigil
Image

Backstage with Mark Lewis

Mark Lewis performs backstage at CGT prior to his second appearance:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xw6DPWjNVq4

Since You Can Never Get Enough …

Mark Lewis’s second appearance on CGT:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRlHF02_6Ts

Albert Brooks, Magician?

The finder of the odd and unusual, Bill Mullins, posts about actor Albert Brooks’ magical background:
viewtopic.php?t=55298

Another Mullins Discovery

For those who enjoy magic-centered mystery novels (guilty), Clayton Rawson is the granddad of the genre. Bill Mullins came across an interview of Rawson’s son, Clayton Rawson, Jr. who talks all about his father.
https://mysteryfile.com/blog/?p=87597

Slydini Teaches

Thought to be lost, film of Slydini, made by Christian Fechner decades ago, are rediscovered and a huge project to release them is announced by Georges Proust. The five-plus hours of performance and teaching from one of the greatest magicians of the 20th century will be worth whatever price tag is attached to it, but the package will have props and more included.

Houdini Still Hot

Among the many bargains found among the 312 lots in Haversat & Ewing’s latest online auction is a signed copy of Houdini’s The Unmasking of Robert-Houdin. With premium, it sells for $1,475.

AMA Awards Show

We listed the Fellowship winners earlier. Here are the member-voted awards presented at the AMA Awards Show on May 17:

Lecturer of the Year: Shoot Ogawa
Close-up Magician of the Year: Bill Goodwin
Parlour Magician of the Year: Chris Capehart
Stage Magician of the Year: Arthur Trace

Henning’s The Magic Show Turns 50

May 28, 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the Broadway opening of The Magic Show starring Doug Henning. Regardless of what one might think of that show, it was an important event in the modern history of magic. You can find an interesting thread with some links to other material here:
viewtopic.php?t=55331


June

On the Cover of Genii: Luis Olmedo
Image

Levit Lands in Las Vegas

Jonathan Levit (AMA Trustee and Genii video reviewer) helps create, and performs in, Legerdemain: Conjuring - Cocktails - Comedy. The shows are held in a “hidden speakeasy” at the 1923 Prohibition Bar found at both the Mandalay Bay and Venetian in Las Vegas (Levit is at the Venetian). They are limited to 45 people per performance.

Fool Us is a Tween

Penn & Teller: Fool Us announces the dates for taping its 11th season.

What Was the Total Late Fee?

Ever the publicity hound, Uri Geller gets coverage for returning a library book decades after its due date:
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpvvev27nzqo

The Best News: No One Was Hurt

Vanishing Inc’s headquarters/warehouse/fulfillment center in California is completely lost to a fire in early June. It occurred when no staff was present, so all that was lost was some stuff, and (most) stuff is replaceable. Apparently there were some unique items that were consumed, but that can be filed under “stuff happens.” That no one was hurt is the key, and the company took rapid action in getting back to business.

TV-MA Magic(?)

To quote member erdnasephile:

“If you have Disney + or Hulu, are not easily offended (TV-MA), and enjoy dumb, juvenile humor, Marvel's M.O.D.O.K. has a magic themed episode (Season 1, Episode 6).
You have been warned. ;)

Note: As an aficionado of the dumb and juvenile, we can say that you will know within the first 30 seconds whether or not you will take issue with this, even well before the David Copperfield joke (which still makes us giggle). Also, if you are a fan of Patton Oswalt (who voices MODOK), you won’t be too disappointed.

NYT, Hatch, and Jews

If you can get past the paywall (you can do so by signing up for a free account), you can read the marvelous piece by David Segal about Richard Hatch, and Guenther Dammann’s Die Juden in der Zauberkunst [Jews in Magic], 1933. Besides the great article, there are quite a few nifty photos and other graphics. In the meantime, we await the publication of Dick’s translation of Dammann’s book.
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/24/arts ... hatch.html#

Just a Little Award for Mr. Ben …

David Ben receives Canada’s highest civilian honor, The Order of Canada.

“David Gordon Ben, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
David Ben is one of the finest sleight-of-hand artists in the world. An influential figure in Canadian performance art, he has spent more than four decades exploring, developing, performing and preserving magic at home and abroad. Devoted to sharing wonder, he has written important books on the history of magic and its greatest practitioners. He also co-founded Magicana, a world-renowned arts organization dedicated to the exploration and advancement of magic.”

Your Flosso Fix

Al Flosso on the Ed Sullivan Show:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pi5di-6VFvo

More TV Magic (not juvenile)

Episode 9 of season 3 of the television series The Bear, "Apologies," had a little bit of magic in it. Clips of Flosso from the Sullivan show (coincidentally the one seen above, which is—as we recall—on the Sullivan DVD that features many magicians), clips from Deceptive Practice, including voiceover from Ricky as well as some magic from 52 Assistants, lots of clips of Georges Méliès, a flash of a page from (probably) the book Modern Magic, and more. This revolves around Marcus, the pastry chef, who recently lost his mother. He is seen watching the films, reading the book, as well as taping pictures on the wall of his station. Thus far nothing else has come of it, but I have yet to watch the last episode. Marcus (very-well played by Lionel Boyce—everyone on the show is exceptional) does want to be a "magician" in the kitchen.


July

On the Cover of Genii: Hide Yamamoto
Image

Milton Berle Had a Great Big …

… love of card tricks. He does a gag (but you get a glimpse of his chops) on The Danny Thomas Show (at the 12:30 mark)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2U3c5OBvq6I&t=780s

And here on the Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (starting at the 14:30 mark)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvKC8t2eWT4

Hurts Just Thinking About It

Member Q. Kumber writes,

In his monthly report, Magic Circle Welfare officer, Robbie McNab, included the following, which was news to me.

"Today, the Houdini ‘brand’ continues in the unlikely form of set protocols for the provision of patient care in hospitals, especially in the fight against infections which nurses have dubbed, ‘The Houdini Technique.’ According to the Aneurin Bevan Health Board, urinary catheters are known to increase the daily risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Nurse-led trials were initiated by reviewing patients daily with the aim of reducing the use of catheters by 25% in accordance with agreed HOUDINI criteria. The timely removal of the urinary catheter as soon as it is no longer required is based around the acronym H – Haematuria, O – Obstruction, U – Urological, D – Decubitus ulcer, I- Input/Output, N – Nursing (end of life), I – Immobilisation. The successful pilot has led to the scaling up and spread of the project."

Your Henning Fix

Doug Henning performs Craig Nichols’—often mis-attributed to Daryl—“Enchanted Cube,” the precursor, by decades, to all the “speed cube” magic we have today:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sD9VKlFDSiE

Bene …

Member Bill Mullins reports that there is an Italian book about S.W. Erdnase, Il Misterioso Baro [The Mysterious Cheat] by Roberto Bombassei available, should collectors of all things SWE be interested:
https://www.amazon.com/S-W-ERDNASE-MIST ... 1447753577

Ricky III Preview

The catalog for the third Potter & Potter auction of the Ricky Jay Collection is posted online. There are 515 lots up for grabs. The auction is scheduled to take place on August 17. Mysteriously, unlike the first two catalogs which are hardbound with black illustrated boards, the printed catalog is published as a colorful paperback in what appears to be an homage to RJ’s Cards as Weapons. When asked about the discrepancy, Gabe Fajuri says, “It was not my decision.”

Cheaters? You Bet! Cons? Please! Psychics? NOOO!!!

Member JHostler starts a thread on “Venerating Cheats & Cons.” Many of us chimed in on the hypocrisy of these sociopaths versus those sociopaths …
viewtopic.php?t=55411


August

On the Cover of Genii: Shawn Farquhar
Image

Endings and Beginnings

In the August issue of Genii, which actually went live on July 20, Richard Kaufman announces the retirement of himself (Editor), Liz Kaufman (Art Director), and Dustin Stinett (Associate Editor). He also lets the magazine’s readers know that Jim Steinmeyer will be the Executive Editor and Julie Eng will be the Executive Director of all Genii publications online and in print.

And Speaking of Julie …

Julie Eng is the first subject of a new book-centric podcast, The Magic Book Podcast, by Adrian Tennant:
https://themagicbookpodcast.com/episode ... e-director


And Speaking of Book Podcasts … and Lubor

Someone was asking about the Lubor Fiedler book project and, coincidentally, Adrian Tennant’s second subject on his terrific podcast is Chris Wasshuber (Lybrary.com) who is now shepherding the long-awaited tome and discusses its progress:
https://themagicbookpodcast.com/episode ... d-his-book

If Walt Said It, Then It Must Be True …

Member erdnasephile posts an interesting quote from Walt Disney:

"Until a character becomes a personality it cannot be believed. Without personality, the character may do funny or interesting things, but unless people are able to identify themselves with the character, its actions will seem unreal. And without personality, a story cannot ring true to the audience."
– Walt Disney

It didn’t generate a lot of replies to go along with its 1,200-plus views, which can only mean … what? Too much like work?

The Prodigal Straightjacket

Member AJM reports on a BBC report of a stolen and returned straightjacket:
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqjl90wk2qgo

Well … We’re Waiting …

Disney+/NatGeo pimps a new streaming television program: David Blaine: Do Not Attempt.
The show is slated for sometime in 2025. For now, the two-plus-minute trailer will whet your appetite:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmEwXgXchas

Ricky Part III

The third (and final) Potter & Potter auction of the Ricky Jay Collection is held. The total hammer price (sans premium) was $378,079. For some details, go to …
viewtopic.php?t=55440

Only in California …

Bubbles are bad … very very bad …
https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/calif ... -littering


September

On the Cover of Genii: The Great Boomsky
Image

Your Ricky Jay Fix

From the The Secret Cabaret (of which you can find many videos on the hosting YouTube channel):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJcNyuJsFkM

We Suck

According to MSN, according to Clay Travis of OutKick, according to a poll with unknown sourcing, data, and background, magic ranks above only collecting figurines and playing videogames on the “Least Attractive Hobbies for Men According to Women” list. In fact, Online Trolling, Gambling, Building Model Trains, Taxidermy, Comic Book Collecting, and Bird Watching are more attractive than “Magic Tricks.” (No one tell my wife of almost 44 years, please.)

Image

FISM Hotel Prices Bass Ackward

Usually when you book your convention hotel via the convention producers, one receives a price break. Apparently, that is not the case with the FISM Italy conference. For reasons unknown (and, no, it is not being controlled by FISM or the group controlling the convention), it’s less expensive to book directly with the Italian hotels near the convention site. IF you can find a room.

Haversat & Ewing Fall Auction

As usual, bargains abound in an H&E auction, not that there weren’t some hi-end items. A Chung Ling Soo poster sold for $4,240. But you could also nab a Doug Henning’s World of Magic poster for just $40 (among other two-digit gets). What set this apart for those who pay attention was that H&E used the Live Auctioneers platform. There’s no official word if this is a permanent change for H&E, but it appears that their first auction of 2025 (January 31 – February 1) will also take place via Live Auctioneers.

50th Last Hurrah for 58

IBM Ring 58’s Winter Carnival of Magic in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, scheduled for March of 2025, will be the organization’s 50th event and, sadly, its final one. Dwindling attendance and logistic issues are the nails in its coffin. The lineup for the event is impressive: Geoff Williams, Michael Trixx, Dan Sperry, Jon Archer, R. Paul Wilson, Steve Beam, Stephen Bargatze, Chris Capehart, David Davinci, Jeff Hobson, Giovanni, Erik Tait, and Ken Scott … so far. Information can be found here:
https://www.ibmring58.com/index.php/mag ... formation/

Your Romaine Fix

And this is not the lettuce …
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nx4l8iNJvCQ

(As of this writing, Penguin is selling these DVDs for one penny.)

Home Sweet Home

The home of David P. Abbott is purchased by the Omaha Magical Society in partnership with Teller. The Zillow listing, with many photos is still up (at the time of this writing):
https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/3316 ... 5595_zpid/

Everything I say is a Lie. In Fact, I’m Lying Right Now

A question about whether or not something is actually a “great debate” generates a debate all its own about magician’s and lying that is worthy of two pages of responses. We did not respond, though perhaps, if we did, we would mention (as one member recently did), that storytelling and lying are not the same thing, because we know for a fact that David Copperfield’s father did not know an extraterrestrial alien at Area 51. But it sure is a great story. We are also aware that The Haunted Mansion at Disneyland really isn’t haunted, but we still go on it as often as possible. We don’t know how many times we have seen Indiana Jones dodge a giant boulder, and we are absolutely certain that Sky Masterson didn’t really go to Havana with a “church doll.” There is a big difference between being able to entertain while telling even the most nonsensical story and not being able too. The former takes a lot of work, and that is why so few can do it so well.

It Was For the Dogs

A special Zoom event was held in late September to raise funds for major vet bills amassed by Jason England’s brother, Zach, as well as dog rescue organizations in the Las Vegas area. Hosted on David Williamson’s Zoom network he uses for his online classes, “The Jack of Hearts Fundraiser” lasted most of a Saturday, was only $100, and it starred Jason England, Mac King, David Williamson, Michael Weber, R. Paul Wilson, Eric Mead, and Derek DelGaudio, each speaking for at least an hour each. Then they had a group chat for another hour or so. Special guests throughout the day included Lance Burton, Rachel Wax, Chris Korn, and Nick Diffatte. Besides a tremendous learning opportunity, it was like hanging out with these great stars of magic. A silent auction for 14 great items, some unique, was held and added over $4,000 to the funds raised. The event was recorded and attendees could revisit the video for about a week after it aired live. Future events to benefit non-profit animal rescues are being considered, so, as Pete Biro would say, “Stay Tooned.”

Your Penn & Teller Fix(es)

Member Joe Mckay noticed that no one else noticed that P&T uploaded a boatload of their magic from their television program. Enjoy … (and subscribe)
https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialPennAndTeller/videos


October

On the Cover of Genii:
Image

2024 Magic Circle Awards

London’s Magic Circle announced its annual awards, and among them was Julie Eng, particularly for her work on the incredible set of books The Rich Cabinet Collection by Eddie Dawes.

The whole list of honorees is …

JN Maskelyne Award - For Services to Magic Literature: Julie Eng

Michael Bailey Trophy - Stage Magician of the Year 2024: Matt Edwards

David Berglas Award - For Outstanding Originality, Creativity and Showmanship in Magic: Derren Brown

Carlton Award - For Outstanding Comedy Performance: Matt Edwards

David Devant Award - For Services to international Magic: Gay Blackstone

Maskelyne Award - For Services to British Magic: Michael Vincent

Silver Wand - For Services to The Magic Circle: Noel Britten

The Chapender Award - For services to the community using magic: Paul Kieve

The Cecil Lyle Award - Best contribution to The Magic Circular Magazine: Ian Keable, Steve Biddle, and Megumi

Puzzle Guy Pimps and Exposes on Today

David Kwong, known for his puzzles, pimps a kids’ magic book while exposing, on national television, the method of a piece of mentalism still often used. While there has been some strong, online, condemnation (including from our very own Richard Kaufman), as of this writing, there have been no known repercussions from any organizations to which this gentleman might belong. The offending segment is still available for viewing. You be the judge:
https://www.today.com/video/david-kwong ... rdsM7KkJaQ


November

On the Cover of Genii:Benjamin Barnes
Image

Meet the New Boss … Same as the Old Boss(?)
Or …
The AMA Savings and Loan …


Only time will tell regarding the answer, but the tumult at the AMA continues with a new president, Christopher Grant, taking over for Mark Wooster who stepped down from his office, but not the BOD, among a scandal regarding a personal loan in 2022, from AMA funds (at about three percent below prime … where does one sign up?) between a former president and another officer—the former now the Executive Director of the AMA and the latter since resigned from the BOD—without full board knowledge. The plots up on the hill thicken …

Why Are There So Many Pirate Sites?

Because “magicians” purchase from them. Please don’t do that.

End of an Era

After 25 years of serving the news-hungry hoard of magic, Alan Watson released the final installment of his free eZine, Magic New Zealand. It was, clearly, a labor of love, and it will be missed. Thank you Alan!

Another Lament …

Tam Shepherds Trick Shop in Glasgow closes after 100-plus years. Gentrification was the final nail in its coffin, but the proprietor’s likely will not open in another location. Many magicians lament the ongoing demise of brick-and-mortar magic shops, but just one question: who’s to blame?

RIP Mr. Piffles

Some would argue that he was the best part of the show, and sadly, Mr. Piffles, Piff the Magic Dragon’s performing partner for more than 15 years (the chihuahua was almost 17 years of age) died. Piff’s announcement included the following that might elicit a tear or two from every pet owner:

“For over fifteen years I’ve had the privilege and the pleasure of being upstaged and outshone night after night by that little ball of fluffy indifference. He came into my life when I had nothing, and set me on the path to a career I could only dream of. In the beginning, I may have rescued him, but in the end, he rescued me. I love you so much Mr. Piffles.”

Hard Workers

Michael Close releases his Workers series (five volumes) in one hardbound volume. It is available for $99.95 on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DMFFP7VL

Righting a Wrong

Back in the days of yore, when women were not allowed in London’s Magic Circle … oh, wait, that was only a few decades ago … a woman posed as a man named Raymond Lloyd and was admitted into the organization. Not long after the club ended their discriminatory practice, the young lady, Sophie Lloyd, revealed herself and she was promptly dismissed from the Circle for her (ironically) “deception.” Laura London, the first woman chair of the Magic Circle, as well as its president, Marvin Berglas, are among those who are trying to find, reinstate, and apologize to the lady conjurer. (Amazingly, there are still a few male members applying some push back over the “deception,” they claim, versus supporting an archaic rule—they claim.)

It is a remarkable piece of turning a negative into positive promotion for the organization when you see that quite a few major news media outlets across the globe have picked up the story, not the least of which being the New York Times:
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/19/worl ... lloyd.html#

Now if only the Magic Castle/AMA could find itself some positive press …

The Clock is Ticking …

A semi-private Facebook page about the Magic Castle has posts that comment that the dues notices to the members of the AMA have a new address, in Pasadena versus directly to the clubhouse, where payments are to be sent. What turned out to be a financial “best practice” was still confusing to some members given the current atmosphere there on the hill. But an even more ominous post on November 19, this one from Erika Larsen, the president of Magic Castle Enterprises, also known as the AMA’s landlord, said, the “AMA has 43 days to ensure the AMA stays at 7001 Franklin” caused a bit of a disturbance. It is in reference to a member referendum that MCE has wanted for a long time but has not yet come to pass, raising the question, who is afraid of what the membership wants?

And it Seemed to Work … Sort of

Mere days later, Marcie Hume, one of the better directors of the AMA, posted on the organization’s private message board the BOD’s intention to work with MCE. While there was nothing about a referendum (which MCE still wanted to see happen before the end of 2024), a key passage in a published document seemed to negate the need (and expense) of such a vote. To wit:

The AMA Board of Directors plans to negotiate a new agreement with MCE to secure long-term,
exclusive member access to the Magic Castle while redefining the responsibilities between AMA
and MCE.

Here’s how the proposal could potentially impact AMA members:

*Exclusive Member Access: AMA members and their guests would retain exclusive access to
the Magic Castle as a clubhouse, preserving traditional member privileges, dues, and
experiences.

*Transfer of Operational Control:
•MCE would assume control of all major operations related to the Magic Castle’s commercial activities before AMA's current lease ends in December 2028.

• AMA would continue to manage its member-focused programs and activities, including the AMA Awards, Juniors Program, Outreach initiatives, Library, and several other core organizational functions.

Given the strife up on the hill, this was a major, and positive, step forward.

Tip of the Iceberg

Potter & Potter announces their Winter Auction (to be held December 14) which feature some of Max Maven’s collection. While there are many books—including lots made up of dozens of books each—it is but the tip of the iceberg of what he had in his Hollywood condominium.

That Positive Press for the Castle and a Larsen

Liberty, a Fourth Generation Larsen, receives an excellent review (the overall review was positive, but Libby was a standout) in a notice on Champions of Magic, a show with which she was touring.

https://dctheaterarts.org/2024/11/21/ch ... vegas-vibe

Another wonderful aspect of the review is writer Julian Oquendo’s joke “exposure” link. Tempting the reader to see how a levitation is done, the linked video is actually Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” music video. To which he admonishes the reader for falling for the Rickroll:

“Yes, you deserved that; the point of going to a magic show is that you are willing to suspend your disbelief for the story they’re telling, much as you would a theater performance. It may shock you, dear reader, but the person on that stage is an actor, not the former King of Scotland. Keep up and remember what it was like to have childlike wonder.”

Unlike many in the internet’s version of the press today, Mr. Oquendo gets it.


December

On the Cover of Genii: Jon Racherbaumer
Image

Oops … Do NOT Throw it Away …

… As that (printed) cover could become a collectors’ item years from now …
[insert embarrassment emoji here]

Dropping Hints

What is presumed to be the new logo for Genii beginning in February appears on the back cover of the December issue …
Image

Ready for My Close-Up Mr. DeMille …

Dug up by member Bill Mullins, an old-ish (2020) short film from R.Paul Wilson—a sci-fi kinda thing titled Trilemma—features a familiar voice narrating the piece’s opening. View it at:
https://filmshortage.com/dailyshortpicks/trilemma/

It’s Not Magic But …

If you are interested in the history of the F-bomb, as our dignified member Bill Mullins clearly is, go here …
viewtopic.php?t=55617

Andy Nyman is Wicked

Excuse me … quintuple threat (writer, director, actor, singer, and magician) Andy Nyman adds the film version of the hit musical Wicked to his list of credits.

It’s Not Magic But … It Is … But it’s Not
Or
They Made Their Mark


Courtesy of member Jim Martin, prompted by a post by Richard Stokes, an interesting 15-year-old article on marked cards written by a non-magician resurfaces …
https://www.cabinetmagazine.org/issues/33/allen.php

Taking it to the Max

The results come in for Potter & Potter’s Winter Auction which includes 271 lots from the Max Maven Collection. Many bargains were had.

The big item from the Maven collection, as prognosticated by erdnasephile, was Max's performance props, which sold for $14,000 (against a high estimate of $8,000—I also believe that this, and those to follow, are the hammer prices; the clue being that items that sold for the minimum bid show that as the price, so add 20%). Other highlights included:

Ted Annemann / J.G. Thompson, Jr. Correspondence lot for just $2,000 (right at the low estimate)

Another bargain for collectors of letters, is the archive of Ted Annemann / Al Baker Correspondence for $3,200--just over the low estimate.

A collection of Al Koran ephemera and etc. including some of his cremated ashes obliterated the $350 high estimate with a hammer price of $1,700.

Jim Steinmeyer's caricature of Max also smashed the high estimate ($600) at $4,200.

One page letter from Orson Welles to Max brought in $2,400.

Ian Kendall was right to be amused by the three-digit estimates of an incomplete file of Jerry Sadowitz's The Crimp magazine which sold for $1,800 (three times the high estimate).

Max's personal and unique copy, and specially bound edition, of his The Protocols of the Elders of Magic sold for $4,400 (high estimate of $800).

Max's personal standard edition of The Protocols which included laser proofs of the book: $1,100.

150 of Max's lecture notes from over the years and events: $4,200 (high est. $600).

Max's personal copies of his The Color Series of Mentalism booklets: $275.

While Francis Menotti and M.T. Silvercup's PRISN, The Off-Color Series of Mentalism (the parody of the above) sold for $425. Go figure.

Max's collection of about 35 book tests went for $2,400.

A collection of items from the television show MAXimum Dimension. Included the scripts (bound), costume studies, and a full-length water color and two full-length pencil sketches; a truly wonderful lot (high ets. $500) for $1,800.

Four decks of Max Maven bridge-sized playing cards for $1,200.

Max's 1997 Creative Fellowship Award from the Academy of Magical Arts (AMA). Includes certificate and trophy: $1,700.

Rare Genii Wand (only a few were ever presented, Max being one of those few): $1,600.

Two posters, one in color, the other B&W (and different in design) from his show Max Maven, Thinking in Person: $1,100

Five more AMA items, including certificates of nomination and his final award, his 2022 Masters Fellowship: $1,600.

Max's personal "Pieces of Strange" (Michael Weber, Tim Trono) box, props, and booklets: $1,500.

There were 271 lots from Max's collection sold, and quite a few other items in the auction. Included from the Bill Kress Collection were four lovely small sculptures that raised $15,800 for St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.

Not to be outdone, Mr. Houdini had quite a few items. A set of Houdini's own handcuffs sold for $5,000. And a terrific lot that included an inscribed copy of The Unmasking of Robert-Houdin and several other pieces of ephemera sold for $9,000.

The ladies shall not be left out either, with a great Ionia poster selling for $11,000.

A very nice complete bound file of Magick, Bascom Jones, Jr's magazine, sold for $2,600.

On the bargain front, there were several pieces from David Roth that made this writer wish he had some disposable income. A collection of Roth's Chop Cups (three, including a bunch of balls, dice, and etc.) sold for a mere $200. And even more mouthwatering was a collection of his performance props that everyone would recognize including two little tables, the Portable Hole, and more sold for just $275. Oh the humanity!

12/15/2024

Not Really Magic, But …

A short profile piece on Nate Bargatze from The Wall Street Journal includes a mention of his magician father, Stephen.
Read a non-paywall edition: https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets ... r-AA1vBWBj

A Wee Bit of Derren Under the Tree

The 45-minute Simpsons’ 2024 Christmas special, Oh C’mon All Ye Faithful, features Derren Brown being Derren Brown, and it is, in several places, laugh-out-loud funny as well as poignant in others. It is on the Disney+ streaming service. (With thanks to Forum member John Signa for calling our attention to it.)

Twenty Days (and fewer than 20 sets) and Counting

Yes, it is pricey, but worth every penny, and it could get pricier here in the USA if tariffs (just a fancy word for a “tax”) are placed on goods from Canada beginning on or just after January 20. 2025. Magicana has fewer than 20 sets remaining of Eddie Dawes’ Rich Cabinet Collection. The nine-volume set of books, written over a span of more than half a century, is the collected columns of Dr. Dawes that appeared in the Magic Circle’s publication The Magic Circular. Volume IX is comprised of the last few chapters and an incredible index. The books are beautifully produced. The most difficult decision one must make is whether or not to leave the beautiful dust jackets on them or show off their stunning boards. Yes, again, they are not inexpensive. But forgo you daily trip to Starbucks, weekly round of golf, or all the “quick picks” for that lottery you will never win, and you will have the money (and, of course, there are other ways to find the means). They can be acquired here:
https://magicana.com/news/blog/complete ... collection

PS: And once you have that Starbucks monkey off your back, you can start saving for the new Greater Magic.

The Answer to “When Will I Ever Use That?”

Member Bill Mullins finds a Peter Winkler book of math puzzles you can download for free …
https://math.dartmouth.edu/news-resourc ... /index.php

Vote Early, Vote Often

The Academy of Magical Arts held its referendum, the question being whether or not the membership wants Magic Castle Enterprises to take over the restaurant/bar (and other revenue-generating) operations at the Magic Castle (leaving magic operations; booking, lectures, etc. etc. to the Academy of Magical Arts). The results were quite one-sided, and in fact was staggering to some. The results were:

Yes/Agree: 92% (1,274 votes)
No/Disagree: 5% (70 votes)
Abstain: 3% (38 votes)

Keep in mind that this was a referendum to see where the membership stands, not a directive. The Board of Directors still holds the keys to what happens next and when. That being said, the mandate to the BOD is more than clear.

The Swan’s Song

On December 20, 2024, the Kaufman era of Genii, The Conjurors’ Magazine officially comes to an end when the digital January 2025 issue is published. (More on that in the next monthly section.)

Lucy Darling, Canada's Favorite … excuse me … Favourite Daughter

Lucy Darling (Carisa Hendrix) will be mounting her show Indulgence at the 39th Annual High Performance Rodeo, Calgary’s International Festival of the Arts. Her show will be at the Big Secret Theatre, January 28 – 30.
https://www.avenuecalgary.com/sponsored ... nce-rodeo/


January 2025

On the Cover of Genii: Nao Murata
Image

And That’s a Wrap …
Or … Lucky 13


Yes, we are giving you a 13th cover in this final recap, the January 2025 issue, because this is the last issue of Genii, The Conjurors’ Magazine, under a quarter century of care by Richard Kaufman. Beginning with the February issue, the masthead will be occupied by Julie Eng, Jim Steinmeyer, Chloe Olewitz, Noah Lavine, and Vanessa Armstrong.

Thank you, Richard (and your then partners), for initially saving the magazine and returning it its rightful place as the greatest periodical in the history of magic. Of course, there is a loving hat-tip to the late Irene Larsen for selling the publication in the first place; she didn’t have to.

Bookends

Dustin Stinett (that’s me) started his tenure at Genii just over 20 years ago with a cover story on the television program The Magician. He closes his tenure as Associate Editor with a cover story in the January issue on Nao Murata. It has been an honor and a dream. My thanks go to Richard and Liz Kaufman, Randy and Kristy Pitchford, Daniel and Jane Solomon, and, of course, the readers. None of it happens without any of you. I will be continuing my work on John Gaughan’s “Chamber of Secrets,” and maybe the occasional feature story if something comes around that stirs my neurotic need for approbation. In the meantime, the Money Pit (aka Casa de Dustin) requires attention, and I can no longer use the time restraints of Genii as an excuse. [sigh]

Generally Speaking …

At the Closing of the Year …

As of midnight EST, the Erdnase thread had reached 205 pages, 8,166 replies to the original post—made in February of 2003—and over 17,069,991 views. (Can that be right? Well, it’s what the machine says, and I do not want to tick off the machines.)

You See, There Was This Kid …

The reason we all can enjoy this site is because there was this kid, I think all of 16 at the time, who suggested it to Richard Kaufman. He then built it and acted as its webmaster for a very long time. We all need to thank Brad Aldridge for his brainchild and his tireless work. (Or you can blame him, if that’s your take on the whole deal.)

Thank you, Brad. Your idea and work actually altered my future.

Image
To Absent Friends

“Death is a certainty, an inevitable realization, the only thing that we know will befall us. There are no exceptions, no surprises: all paths lead to it.”
~Meša Selimović

The list this year might be shorter than in past years, but it is no less painful as it contains too many friends as well as a wonderful little dog. Remember them, their families, friends, and countless fans. In alphabetical order …

Glenn Bishop
Father Jim Blantz
Vladimir Danilin
Shiv Duggal
Mark Edward
Mike Gallo
Andrew Galloway
Remo Inzani
Harriet Jacobson
The Amazing Kreskin
Derek Lever
Gustavo Lorgia
Jeremy Pei
Mr. Piffles
Jon Racherbaumer
Jason Randal
Rev. William Rauscher
Claude Rix
Roy Shank
Tony “Doc” Shiels
Steve Silverman

* * * *

And in the End …

In case you have not guessed, and to paraphrase a then former vice president and failed-gubernatorial candidate, “I leave you now. You will now interpret it. That's your right. But as I leave you, I want you to know—just think how much you’re going to be missing. You don’t have Dustin to kick around anymore. Because this might be my last official post as a moderator of the Genii Forum.”

The future is murky. I will be around long enough to pass the torch to those who have agreed to carry it. (They will be announced soon.) After that, who knows? I do know that I will no longer be moderating afterward. I will check in from time to time if I have anything to say. I can say with certainty that you are reading the last recap that I will do. So if someone else wishes to carry on this, by all means, go for it …

It has been an absolute gas working here. I started doing this with my friend and mentor Jon Racherbaumer more years ago than I care to work out. This place is, in fact, what stoked that relationship between us. The Genii Forum is why my byline first, and then regularly, appeared in Genii. Those are the things that I will never forget. Thank you all so very much for your support. I know it has, at times, been a rocky road. Such is the role of someone who has to enforce rules. But, for the most part, it has been fun, entertaining, and educational on many levels. And so, to quote my dear departed friend just one more time, I say …

Onward.

Dustin Stinett
©1959

Tom Gilbert
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Tom Gilbert » January 1st, 2025, 10:35 am

Excellent as always Dustin. And thanks for everything!

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erdnasephile
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby erdnasephile » January 1st, 2025, 10:49 am

That was wonderful (as usual), Dustin!
I had a feeling it was going to be your last, which makes me terribly sad.
You have given me (and many others) so much thoughtful joy (and laughter) on all these New Year's Days, on Genii Forum, and in Genii itself.
I'm really grateful for all the vision, talent, and dedication you chose to spend with us.
Thank you. Thank you! THANK YOU!!!

Roger M.
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Roger M. » January 1st, 2025, 11:24 am

Excellent Dustin!
Regardless of whether the yearly wrap-up continues, it simply won't be as it was when you wrote it.

I'd note at this point that, although the magazine will no doubt begin to reflect the change in managers/editors ... one hopes that the new powers that be will recognize that the Genii Forum itself simply "works" as it is, and will refrain from making changes to it that might either result in it becoming completely unrecognizable, or (worse yet) deciding it's of no value, and getting rid of it.

Saliently, change is nowhere near as inevitable (or desirable) as it's often made out to be.

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Richard Kaufman
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Richard Kaufman » January 1st, 2025, 11:37 am

Great work, Dustin!
My last official act was fixing the typos in your Year in Review.
So long, folks!
Subscribe today to Genii Magazine

Joe Lyons
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Joined: November 13th, 2017, 8:27 am
Favorite Magician: Wonder
Location: Texas

Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Joe Lyons » January 1st, 2025, 12:22 pm

Excellent as always Dustin, your EOY reviews will be greatly missed, whether they are continued or not.

Tom Dobrowolski
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Tom Dobrowolski » January 1st, 2025, 12:49 pm

Enjoyed it as always Dustin. Thanks!

One addition Curtis Kam also received a Special Fellowship from the AMA.

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CraigMitchell
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby CraigMitchell » January 1st, 2025, 3:08 pm

Thank you - Dustin!

A new year is just not the same without your recap.

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Dustin Stinett
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Dustin Stinett » January 1st, 2025, 4:21 pm

Great work, Dustin!
My last official act was fixing the typos in your Year in Review.
So long, folks!
I have counted on you fixing my stuff for 20 years. What the heck am I going to do now?

Thanks for the kind words, everyone.
Happy New Year!

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Doug Thornton
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Doug Thornton » January 1st, 2025, 9:48 pm

Love and best wishes to all!
Thanks, Richard and Liz.
Thanks, Dustin. I doubt someone else wishes to carry on this recap tradition. If they do, they won't match your style, smart references, and sly winks (just like breaking the fourth wall) that pepper your work. We are happy you'll be checking in if the Forum continues. Stay well.

And best wishes to the new crew, including Jim and Julie!
Smiles all around
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SAM161CALENDAR/
SAM 161 - The David Copperfield Assembly
https://www.sam161.com/

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chetday
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby chetday » January 2nd, 2025, 1:00 pm

Thank you Dustin for many years of good reading and good online company. Same to you, Richard. Getting older and having to suffer new changes offers both good and bad things. I'm wishing the good things for both of you in 2025.

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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Diego » January 2nd, 2025, 2:47 pm

Thank you Dustin for all that you have done relentlessly for so many!

Jack Shalom
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Jack Shalom » January 2nd, 2025, 7:15 pm

Thank you, Dustin. Your articles, interviews, and posts have always been literate, interesting and tasteful, an essential part of Genii's success.

Dzuckerbrot
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Dzuckerbrot » January 2nd, 2025, 7:47 pm

Hi Dustin. I just wanted to add my thanks and congratulations (not just for this review but also for it). I hope we run into each other again before too long.
all the best on new ventures.

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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Dustin Stinett » January 12th, 2025, 3:03 pm

PS: I have added Glenn Bishop to the list of those lost in 2024.
RIP Glenn.

Also, thanks again to everyone for the kind comments on this post.

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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Dustin Stinett » January 14th, 2025, 12:44 pm

PS: I have added Vladimir Danilin to the list of those lost in 2024.

Bill Mullins
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Bill Mullins » February 1st, 2025, 8:06 pm

Remo Inzani (from whose bottle production Bob Read developed his) died in 2024:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1564135 ... 250085300/

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Dustin Stinett
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Re: 2024 Year in Review

Postby Dustin Stinett » February 2nd, 2025, 4:33 pm

Added.
I really hate this part of the job.
If anyone out there has a relatively current high resolution photo of him (I have an old one), please get it to me as soon as possible. It is for the AMA Awards memorial reel. Thank you.

"Take me away from all of this death."
~Mina Harker


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