Second day of Combined Convention builds excitement
Category: Posted by: C. DENNIS SCHICK
PHOTOS BY MICHAEL MESSING
Many people arrived in St. Louis on Sunday, June 29, so by Tuesday they were already into Day Three of the I.B.M./S.A.M. Combined Convention. But Tuesday was really just Day Two for most folks, and just Day One for some. Highlights of the day included a Welcome and FFFF Honoree Kick-Off Show in the morning, the first session of the FISM Stage Contest, and Lecture #2, by David Stone in the afternoon.
Of course the Vendor Exhibition continued throughout the day, giving magicians a first-hand look at many new magic products and services. The vendor area is always a favorite hang-out area for new and old friends to gather -- a major reason why many people come to the convention.
The evening peogram was The Fat Brothers Close-up Show, starring Dani DaOrtiz. Following that was a special Midnight Mingle (which started at 10 pm), featuring an opportunity to get autographs from all the stars. The day ended with two back-to-back shows of the Richard Turner Experience, at 10:30 and 11:30.
But the day was not all fun and games. Both the I.B.M. and the S.A.M. leaders held board and committee meetings during the day. And they deserve a deep bow of thanks since they miss much of the convention activities as they conduct the business of the organizations.