I was absolutely enthralled the first time I saw a magician. Doves appeared and disappeared. Cards rose from the deck. He linked steel rings and floated a silver ball. I laughed in astonishment and so did everyone else. His methods were utterly mysterious to me. He seemed to manipulate reality. But, the truly marvelous thing was how he had everyone laughing, clapping and excited. That room was the bright center of the world for that shining moment and he was its star.

That is how I see magic still, 3 decades later. I trust that the Omaha Magical Society’s coming year will be one of excitement and wonder. We look forward to much magic performed and taught by our members and by magicians from afar. 2010 is already off to a great start with a grand Wizard’s Banquet. My thanks to all who worked so hard to make the evening magical. We saw excellent close up and stage magic in a beautiful setting and shared a meal befitting Merlin himself.

We have some great programs lined up and more on the way. This will be a year to learn new magic share with each other and enjoy the world’s greatest hobby.

I look forward to seeing you at the meetings, enjoying your magic and sharing ideas.