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MAGI-FEST

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Revision as of 09:37, 13 August 2012 by Jpecore (Talk | contribs)

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The Columbus MAGI-FEST is a convention sponsored by the IBM Howard Thurston Ring in Columbus Ohio and is typically the first magic convention of the calender year.
Full page ad for the second annual Magi-Fest in Linking Ring (January 1932)

The 1931 IBM convention held in Columbus was so successful that Robert Nelson and Syl Reilly decided to put on another similar convention themselves. Nelson would coined the term "Magi-Fest".

After a falling out between Nelson and Reilly, Reilly ran the convention. Nelson could still sometimes be seen socializing and networking in the lobby of the hotel. Nelson would also have a large group over at his place the following the convention.[1] It regularly draws over 800 attendees.


After 80 years of continuous conventions it was announced in 2012 that they would retire the event. There were several factors in the decision to retire the event including:

  • Long-time, loyal attendees who are aging out faster than younger registrants are coming in
  • The downturn in the U.S. economy over the past few years
  • Financial pressure on the convention due to increasing costs and insurance requirements, while keeping registration, food, and lodging costs affordable to attendees

The staff recognized in 2012 were Tony Dolciato, Randal Fath, Mike Heniken, Steven Kline, the Krech kids, Glenn Mackie, Red Penley, and Mike Sanderson.[2]


However, before the end of 2012 was over, it was announce by Joshua Jay (an Ohio native) and Andi Gladwin that they would lead the team in keeping the Columbus Magi-Fest Alive. The dates for 2013 were scheduled for January 24-26.[3]


References

  1. http://www.magifest.org/
  2. http://www.geniimagazine.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=263046
  3. http://www.geniimagazine.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=272080#Post272080