APRIL 16, 2026

Dear Magical Team,

Gilmanfest 2026--The Encore took place this past weekend on April 10-12.  Although attendance at this 28th consecutive annual gathering of The Magical Team was of course less than at last year's "Final Fest," the enthusiasm and enjoyment of those present was equally high.  A total of 33 adults participated, consisting of 20 clerks, 9 companions, and the "core four" (me, Chief Judge Betsy, Judicial Assistant Carol, and Carol's husband Wayne).

Second-time-around Cruise Director Diana Comes (Team 16, 2012-2013), working closely with several key supporters that included Peter Fielding (Team 19, 2015-2016) as the Treasurer, did a terrific job of planning and supervising the various events.  The weekend began on Friday at 6:00 p.m. with a three-hour get together at Wiseacre Brewing Company.  Pizza, salad, beer, and conversations were all in abundance.

Next up was the "Main Event," our Saturday lunch at Central BBQ.  We had a great buffet of pork BBQ, chicken, beans, cole slaw, chips, items for the vegetarians, and plentiful apple fritters from Gibson's Donuts.  Then came the program, which included the introduction of all clerks in attendance and the special recognition of those who have attended at least five Gilmanfests.  Also featured was my annual magic show, during which objects appeared from nowhere, cards were mysteriously selected, ropes magically changed sizes, and predictions via ESP (Extrasensory Perception) were made.  The program wrapped up with a group photo of The Magical Team as shown on the masthead above.

After a few hours' break for sightseeing and other independent activities, the attendees next assembled at The Flying Saucer bar and restaurant from roughly 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for drinks and more food.  This was a prequel to the 10:00 p.m. opening of Paula Raiford's Disco, where 26 attendees proceeded to cap off the evening at Memphis's most unique nightclub.  The last of the hearty revelers stayed until 2:15 a.m. Sunday morning!

As the final Gilmanfest event, we assembled at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday morning at the Loflin Yard indoor/outdoor facility in the South Bluffs area of downtown.  We enjoyed a very nice a-la-carte brunch under a covered patio that we had all to ourselves.  This was our last opportunity to mingle, take photos, and say goodbyes.

From start to finish, we had a wonderful weekend.  You can get a glimpse of what went on by clicking on "Photos"  above.  Although I truly intended for last year's Gilmanfest to be the finale, I must confess my happiness with this year's Encore, which was staged by a band of rebellious clerks who refused to take "no" for an answer.  I am greatly honored by those who spent their time and money returning to Memphis in order to keep The Magical Team tradition alive.  As to whether there should be any future Encores, I will leave that decision "hanging in the wind" for the time being!

                                                                           Best wishes,

                                                                           Judge G