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The latest on www.elvisinfonet.com:
Circle G Ranch development approved: Bill Burk advises that news broke tonight (Wed PM USA time) that the zoning board in Mississippi has approved a zoning change that will allow a multi-multi-million dollar resort and rich homes to be built on the Circle G Ranch. Bill says: "TV news even showed miraculous artist drawings of what it will look like once finished in five years after start of development. AGAIN, DON'T GO SELLING your Savings Bonds to invest in this project !!! Let it prove itself first. This is the same promoter who has been behind one, maybe two other proposed developments of the Circle G. None of them came to pass, despite his having hired Donna Early Presley as his public spokesperson!!" "Report came to me about a month ago that the children of Mrs. McLemore (who has owned the Circle G for years) are advising her to SELL it; to take the money and run. But as she reported to a friend of EW, "Why should I sell it when people keep giving forfeiting their $500,000 earnest money." She said she had hauled in $2 million in earnest money (or so it was reported to EW) gone astray ... and she still owns the Circle G. The project, as announced tonight, would include 2 championship golf courses on the 160 acres and homes selling for upwards of $500,000. Now I ask you ... how many Elvis fans are going to be able to buy a $500,000 home -- not that all sales will come from Elvis fans. Hell, I've only had 3 nibbles on the house/land I inherited just 10 minutes' walk from Graceland and I've offered it for far, far less than $500,000 !!!" (News/Bill E. Burk's Elvis World Online, Source: Bill E. Burk)
Elvis Aaron Presley A Candle In The Wind: Bill. E. Burk's latest book has left the printer and copies should start being mailed tomorrow. (News, Source: Bill E. Burk) EPE auction of Elvis items - yes or no?: We were going to sit on this story for a while but as Bill Burk has gone public with it In the latest edition (#76) of Elvis World magazine, Bill Burk stated that EPE would soon be offering a number of Elvis items (including jumpsuits) for auction. Elvis News contacted EPE who denied the claim, describing it as "bizzare". In response Bill had this to say in his email newsletter: "A couple of Elvis website masters contacted me yesterday seeking a reply to printed criticism of me and something I wrote in EW76. I explained I do not prefer to discuss criticism in public; feel it best to work it out one-on-one. BUT, IN DEFENSE of me, of EW and what you read in it and in my books, I do not print pure rumors. IF I get an item, first I wonder about the person tipping me. Reliable? Not? So-so? And THEN I cross-check what I've been told with others to see if I can get a confirmation on what I am about to write. If not, I drop it. If yes, I go with it. In this particular incident, I had this confirmed by two sources I know to be 99.999999999% reliable. Now I read my reporting it to you is "bizarre" and the event will not happen. I've come under this same attack before and was proven right. And once I was proven right, no one who criticized me stepped forward to apologize. SO . . . my feeling is to let the future determine if what I wrote was right? Or rumor? This same matter came up when I last had a conference call with Priscilla P and a top exec at Graceland and I was told "98% of what you write is correct." To which I replied: "Hey, I think it's 100%, but if EPE says it's only 98%, I can live with that."" (News, Source: Bill E. Burk/Elvis News/EPE)
"Elvis Fans in Australia" site being wound down: Susan MacDougall has advised that any pages worth salvaging will be allocated to other sites. The "Australian Calendar" page is discontinued. The following pages will be relocated and their new locations announced when everything is sorted out: "Australian Elvis Fan Clubs"; "Australian Elvis Tribute Artists"; Reports of the "Annual Independent Survey of Elvis Web Sites" (2000 - 2004) (News, Source: Susan MacDougall) Vote for Elvis: Deadline extended in voting for top 5 Greatest Americans: The first installment of the Greatest American special series airing Sundays in June on Discovery aired on June 5th. Public voting had placed Elvis in the top 100. In that first show the top 100 were profiled and the top 25 vote-getters were revealed. The rest of the top 100 were eliminated. Elvis made that top 25! Now it's on to voting for the top 5. So visit the Greatest American site for all the details and to vote, vote, vote for Elvis! The poll for the top 5 closes Friday, June 17 at 9:00 AM Eastern. (News, Source: EPE)
"Elvis! Elvis! Elvis! Photos from the Heart" update: The first 2,000 copies of Sandi Pichon's new Elvis photobook will be a numbered, limited edition personally signed by the author. (News, Source: Sandi Pichon/website)
New book - "Elvis! Elvis! Elvis! Photos from the Heart": This 50 page photobook from Sandi Pichon is to be released in the USA & UK on 1 July 2005. ISBN: 1904444555. (News, Source: Amazon UK) Elvis Behind The Image Vol. 2: This 144 page book from Bud Glass featuring 520 photographs and covering the period 1956-1977 will be released on June 27. Sandi Miller has opened her private journals again and tells stories about the human being behind the legend while the "King of Candids" Russ Howe has conjured up more "amazing candid Lisa Presley receives "best new female rock vocalist" award: Lisa received the award for Best New Female Rock Vocalist at the American Society of Young Musicians (ASYM's) 13th Annual Spring Benefit Concert & Awards - Thursday, June 9th, 2005 at the House of Blues in West Hollywood, CA. (News, Source: Lisa Presley web site)
"Why Elvis" DVD release date: The new DVD, "Why Elvis", will be released in the US on June 28. It is described as: "An uncommon documentary about an unlikely hero and an unbelievable phenomenon which continues to arouse curiosity around the world. This revealing program explores both the life of Elvis Presley and the mythical proportions of his memory. Why Elvis? draws from nearly one hundred interviews with people from every realm of the Elvis world who tell stories never-before-heard outside of Memphis." (News, Source: Amber Smith)
The members of the planning team included Anne and Markku Veijalainen, Dennis Livson (who is the father of the Moominworld Park in the locality), as well as Mikki Kunttu and Taneli Pyysalo, who also designed the Versace exhibition at Helsinki's Design Museum. Anne and Markku Veijalainen accidentally came upon the items belonging to the former bodyguards of Elvis Presley in a warehouse in Florida four years ago. After years of negotiations, they were finally able to arrange the unique Elvis exhibition in Naantali. The Footsteps of Elvis exhibition is open daily from 10 to 19 at the Naantali Spa Hotel until July 31st. Further details are on the website below. From Naantali the exhibition will be taken on an European tour. The Grand Opening in Amsterdam will be on August 27th, and the exhibition will continue there until mid-September. (News, Source: Helsingin Sanomat) Threats against Elvis webmaster?: The Elvis world can be a strange place. The webmaster of a prominent Elvis website is claiming threats have been made against him. Others aren't so sure. (News, Source: Email) "If I'd Only Bought Her Roses" update: We received this message from Cory Cooper about the song "If I'd Only Bought Her Roses" - "I had been contacted by someone claiming to be "Terry King", the writer of the song a few months ago and he was telling me the story of him writing the song with Elvis. I didn't believe his story and after doing a little research, it confirmed my belief that Elvis had nothing to do with this song. "Terry King" also made up a story that never happened about me in the material that was used on the eBay listing when he was trying to sell the song. There was a made up story that made it seem some interviewer had contacted me about the song because I was skeptical and then in turn made it sound like they were interviewing Terry King and mentioned it to him. I contacted him about this and he said that a Publicist put it on the listing and he apologized for it. I contacted a couple people from the Elvis inner circle and they knew nothing about him or the song and a person that works with Ernst Jorgensen said "Elvis didn't write or co-write material although his publishing company GladysMusic acquired partial rights to many songs" and "He is not listed in Ernst's documentation of Elvis complete recording sessions". (News, Source: Cory Cooper Elvis Expert) Profiteering or fair play?: Since Priscilla Presley's round of promotional book signings for "Elvis by the Presleys", there has been a glut of "signed" copies appearing on eBay. Some are fetching very high prices (over US$100.00). (News, Source: ebay) "I'm Not Trying To Be Like Elvis" promo single doesn't sell: A "DJ" promo copy of the rare Jimmy (Orion) Ellis 7" single, "I'm Not Trying To Be Like Elvis" failed to attract even one bid earlier this week on ebay. The start price was US$19.95 with a "Buy It Now" price of US$175.00. The single was originally released in 1978 on the Boblo label and became embroiled in the "Is Elvis Alive?" conspiracy. (News, Source: ebay)
How Bill Burk got Elvis to talk: In his latest article, Elvis World's "007" tells how he was able to obtain information directly from Elvis and how it only took him 21 words to reveal who called the National Enquirer on 16 August 1977 while it took another author more than 600 pages to make the same revelation! (Bill Burk's Elvis World Online, Source: Bill E. Burk) Rights to Elvis Week impersonator contest sold: Prominent Elvis tribute artist. Michael Hoover, has bought all rights to the August Elvis impersonator contest in Memphis from its founder, Dr. Ed Franklin. (News, Source: Bill E. Burk, Elvis World #76) Elvis in the Army - a pr headache: Pfc. Steve McQueen was confined for being absent without leave, Lt. Clark Gable's cameraman enlisted with him and Pfc. Elvis Presley was a public relations headache for the Army, according to U.S. military documents released on Thursday. "Elvis Presley will not be released in a manner different from any other inductee serving overseas," the Army's adjutant general wrote to citizens who complained following reports that the rock 'n' roll icon would get an early "good behavior" discharge. When he entered the Army at Memphis, Tennessee, on March 24, 1958, there was a public outcry from his fans, and protests flowed to Washington, including a hand-written plea released by the National Archives and Records Administration. "Dear Mamie," one correspondent wrote to then-first lady Mamie Eisenhower. "Will you please, please be so sweet and kind as to ask Ike (President Dwight Eisenhower) to please bring Elvis Presley back to us from the Army. We need him in our entertainment world to make us all laugh." A 1959 Army memo set out the Presley problem: "When Private First Class Presley was first inducted, there was considerable adverse public reaction ... alleging that he would receive preferential treatment in the Army. This impression has been largely replaced by a public impression of a good soldier serving his military obligation. ... Many teenagers who look up to and emulate Private First Class Presley will ... follow his example in the performance of their military service." (News, Source: The Financial Express) Michael Jackson receives slice of "Elvis and The Beatles music" royalties: According to MSNBC News, Michael Jackson has a 50 percent share in the Sony/ATV music catalog — this gives him the royalties off songs not only by the Beatles but Elvis, Destiny’s Child and a host of others — his share will continue to bring him millions each year. (News, Source: MSNBC News) Elvis vs. The Beatles (update): The Beatles have become the first recording act to earn six "diamond" awards. Diamond awards are awarded by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) to acts which sell 10 million copies in the US of an album. The latest diamond award for The Beatles is for their hits album "1" released in 2000. Led Zeppelin has five "diamond" awards, Garth Brooks four and the Eagles three. Elvis has yet to receive a "diamond" award in the US with his best selling album being the 1970 Camden budget release, "Elvis' Christmas Album" with 9 million units sold. (News, Source: Sain Music) Chart update: The "Elvis by the Presleys" DVD is #1 in the music DVD chart in both Ireland and the UK for a third week in a row. In Canada, the "Elvis by the Presleys" DVD climbs one place to #13 from last week's #14 in the global DVD chart and still at #1 as Music DVD for a third week in a row. Peaks:
White doves released into sky as Lisa Presley's ex-husband, Michael Jackson, found "not guilty": Singer and self-proclaimed King of Pop, Michael Jackson, has been found "not guilty" of all 10 charges against him. The "not guilty" verdicts were also found for lesser charges on a number of matters. One fan in the large crowd gathered outside the court released a white dove into the air as each of the "not guilty" verdicts was announced. Jackson married Lisa Presley on May 26, 1994, and they were divorced on Jan. 18, 1996. Apart from his self-proclaimed title of "King of Pop", Jackson lives on a mansion estate called Neverland. His album, Thriller, is the biggest selling album in recording music history with global sales of 50 million. (News, Source: Yahoo video news/Billboard) Priscilla responds to claims Elvis didn't want to marry her: Priscilla Presley posted the following message on her website messageboard about her marriage to Elvis: "I'm responding to Precious' post of June 9th. regarding Elvis having to marry me. I understand that there are many of you who would love to believe that. My father NEVER made that threat. In fact, Elvis was the type of person who would do just the opposite. One could never back Elvis against a wall....And that went for the Col. too. Elvis was a very loving being....He loved having a family. He was raised in a very close knit family enviornment all his life ...It's a shame that there are those of you who read and listen to rumors and idle gossip...why is it you have to dissect ours, which was a loving relationship. Again, you have the choice to believe what you want." (News, Source: Priscilla Presley website/Amber Smith) Elvis by the Presleys - DVD review: Howard Price says the DVD is "Quite possibly the most complete, most accurate, and most intimate biography piece done on the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis By The Presleys is a must-have for any Elvis afficionado." (DVD Review, Source: The Trades) 2nd Annual Elvis film festival: Tickets are now available for the 2nd Annual Elvis Film Festival presented by Lenny"s Sub Shops. The festival will be held Monday, August 15, 2005 at the Malco Paradiso Theatre beginning at 9:30am. The festival is scheduled in conjunction with Graceland® during Elvis Week® 2005 and currently is the only one of its kind at a movie theatre in the United States. The 2nd Annual Elvis Film Festival will feature the films Viva Las Vegas ™ and Elvis: That"s the Way It Is: Special Edition, along with a special free viewing of the DVD, Elvis, Aloha from Hawaii playing as follows: 9:30am Viva Las Vegas ™ Tickets for Viva Las Vegas ™ and Elvis:That"s the Way It Is: Special Edition are $6.50 each and are available thru the Graceland sales/reservation department until August 5. There is a limited supply of free tickets are available for the 2:30pm DVD showing of Elvis, Aloha from Hawaii with a limit of two free tickets per person. All guests are encouraged to order tickets early, as shows will sell out quickly. Advanced tickets may be acquired via email at email protected from spam bots and by calling (901) 332.3322 or (800) 238.2000. Any remaining tickets will be available the day of the event at the Malco Paradiso box office (584 South Mendenhall, Memphis) beginning at 9:00am. Contact: Malco Theatres, Inc, Karen Scott, telephone 901-761-3480. (News, Source: PRWeb) Vote for Elvis as "Greatest American": The first installment of the Greatest American special series airing Sundays in June on Discovery aired on June 5th. Public voting had placed Elvis in the top 100. In that first show the top 100 were profiled and the top 25 vote-getters were revealed. The rest of the top 100 were eliminated. Elvis made that top 25! Now it's on to voting for the top 5. So visit the Greatest American site for all the details and to vote, vote, vote for Elvis! The poll for the top 5 closes Monday, June 13 at 11:59 PM Eastern. Vote for Elvis: By Phone:
Australian chart update: A big day for Elvis in Australia. Not only were the Elvis by the Presleys DVD and CD released, but on the ARIA Music DVD Top 40, Aloha From Hawaii climbed to #19 (from #40) and The '68 Comeback Special re-entered the chart at #34. (News, Source: ARIA)
"Elvis by the Presleys" DVD and CD released in Australia today: Both the DVD and CD editions of Elvis by the Presleys are released in Australia today. (News, Source: BMG) "Now What" released in Australia today: Lisa Presley's new album, Now What, is released in Australia today. (News, Source: Amber Smith) “The Voice of Elvis" concert: Doug Church will be appearing next Friday, 17 June at Sheraton Bucks County Langhorne, PA. Special guest Tony Sands as "Frank Sinatra". Call today: (856) 627-0984 "Elvis and Faulkner" - touting heritage: William Faulkner and Elvis Presley - different as they may be in many respects - share two great commonalities. First, they were probably the most influential Americans of the 20th century in their respective fields - Faulkner in literature, Presley in popular music - and both had, and continue to have, international followings. Second, they were both deeply rooted in their native Northeast Mississippi soil. That one small geographic region in the rural South could produce two such cultural giants in close to the same era is remarkable. That more people don't join those who already come here to observe and celebrate their origins needs to be remedied.
Bring it on, Elvis: Millville plans to be awash in rhinestoned polyester and pompadour haircuts June 17 as the Arts District looks for the best Elvis impersonator on the planet. Well, at least the best one who turns up for Third Friday. "If Vegas can do it, why can't we?" said Millville Development Corporation Director Marianne Lods. The show will run from 7 to 8 p.m. at Glasstown Plaza, but everyone on High Street will be able to listen to the music (for better or worse) thanks to the district's new speaker system. "Everybody loves it for the fun," said Lods. Trophies will be awarded. For Philadelphia artist Sam "Sammy J." Formica, paying tribute to the King is about much more than fun. "I take this very seriously," said Formica, who was a finalist in the 2003 World Tribute Artist Competition. "I try to get better and better each time." For Formica, 41, the secret to success is remaining as authentic as possible. This includes ordering clothing from the same company that outfitted the King himself. Also, he said, it is important to be able to leave the Elvis persona behind. "Good impersonators don't impersonate except for when doing a show," Formica said. "If you saw me on the street, you wouldn't know what I do." Still, Formica's a huge Presley fan whose Elvis collection includes more than 500 albums and locks of the King's hair. "On stage, I'm trying to channel Elvis. I'm an actor, more than anything else," he said. "I'm paying tribute to him. I try to bring the passion Elvis had onstage." Like many Elvis impersonators, Formica prefers covering the "jumpsuit" Elvis of the 1970s. He said he hasn't decided on a song list for the Millville competition, but when the chips are on the line, Formica goes to his standby: "I'm hurt" leading into "Suspicious Minds." John "Johnny P." Purshock, 45, has been impersonating Elvis for more than 20 years, starting soon after a brief encounter with the singer in 1977. Purshock, a commercial contractor, performs about two shows per week. Putting on a quality show, according to Purshock, is all about nailing the look. He has spent nearly $2,500 for a single jumpsuit. "The dime-a-dozen guys don't have that authentic look," he said. "There are just too many of them. Even at shows, some guys are really bad." (News/Almost Elvis, Source: The Daily Journal)
Jerry Schilling "TCB" necklace stolen and listed on eBay: Recently, a TCB necklace like those Elvis gave to members of his inner circle went on sale on eBay. The seller claims it once belonged to Jerry Schilling, who, the current seller claims, sold it at some point. The seller displays a so-called letter of authenticity allegedly signed by Jerry. Click here to see the sales page for this item while it remains in place. The truth is Jerry Schilling would NEVER have sold his TCB necklace. Actually, his TCB necklace was stolen from his room during a hotel stay in Memphis in the 1990s, apparently by a hotel employee. Among the several other items taken was his gold name/nickname I.D. bracelet, another "inner circle" Elvis gift. Neither of these items has ever resurfaced to Jerry's knowledge. The person who stole them almost certainly had no knowledge of their history, just that they were gold jewelry pieces. The staff here at EPE remember the incident well. It was a real bummer to say the least. Elvis celebration to offer something for everyone: There will be something for everyone to do on Saturday, June 11.The Trail of Lights committee will host a day-long event to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Elvis Presley's first concert in Sweet-water. All activities will be held in downtown Sweetwater, Texas around the square and at the municipal auditorium. (News, Source: Sweetwater Reporter) New DVDs released: Released in the import circuit are two new DVDs, the titles are "Elvis On Stage" and "Elvis On The Screen". The DVDs come in digipacks. "Elvis On Stage" contains Elvis fifties television appearances and the Sinatra show performaces. The second one contains performances taken from Elvis' movies. The word import is often a euphemism for "bootleg". (News, Source: Elvis News) "Elvis" tribute artist at Wounded Warriors concert: Paul Casey (one of the best Elvis tribute artists) have been asked to perform at the Wounded Warriors Concert, Washington, DC on October 1, 2005. The producer, Gary Thompson, Red Hot Chili Peppers along with Norman Winter Public Relations are handling the talent. The headliners are Jon Bon Jovi, Toby Keith and other named acts. It will take place at the Washington Monument and 10, 000 are expected to attend. The event will be televised. So it will receive plenty of exposure. (News, Source: Elvis Unlimited) No Elvis for Outsiders film: Directing legend, Francis Ford Coppola wanted to have an all-Elvis Presley music soundtrack for the re-edit of his 1983 drama classic 'The Outsiders' but says that it wasn't possible due to restrictions from the record company and the Kings estate. Coppola has added 22 minutes of footage and a rock soundtrack to the1983 drama and has rounded up most of the Brat Pack-plus cast for bonus features. The filmmaker has re-conceived the soundtrack based on what the characters would be listening to and added songs to the soundtrack from Elvis Presley, Van Morrison, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins, among others. (News, Source: Elvis Express)
Audoban Drive National Register listing is not true!: Bill Burk has responded to a news story citing him as the source behind the claim that Elvis' former home on Audoban Drive in Memphis would be added to the National Register: "A few Elvis websites broke the "news" earlier this week that Elvis' house on Audubon Drive will soon be listed on the National Register, just like Graceland. And these websites were listing their source as "Bill E. Burk." NOT SO !! I know nothing of this, or even IF it is going to happen. Having been involved with the commission that installs Historic Markers, I sort of know how these commissions operate. I, for instance, was chairman of the committee which got the historic markers for Graceland and for SUN Records, but failed in getting one for Lansky Brothers. I somehow doubt the NATIONAL Register will list the Audubon Drive house, but you never know. I checked the source that leaked this tidbit, listing me as its source, and they referred to a long telephone conversation I had recently with that fan club's president, but at NO TIME did we even mention the house on Audubon." (News, Source: Bill E. Burk) Elvis Maid in hospital: Pauline Nicholson, Elvis' other surviving cook/maid, was admitted to a Memphis hospital about ten days ago and are sad to report that has been diagnosed with bone cancer. She seems to be doing as well as can be expected, but she is very weak at this time after just finishing her tenth, and last, dose of chemotherapy. If anyone would like to send her some get well cards or personal messages, here is the address: Pauline Nicholson, c/o Jim Cox, 1303 Double Oaks Road, Greensboro, Nth Carolina, 27407, USA (News, Source: The Elvis Express)
Elvis was a racist?: The theme of Elvis being racist has been a recurring one since he sprang to fame in the 1950s. This is a recent article looking at this very emotive and controversial issue. It is the first in an "Elvis and racism" series that we will be publishing this month. (Spotlight Article, Source: The Village Broadsheet/Sanja Meegin) Resort status in works for Circle G Ranch: Horn Lake Board of Mayor and Aldermen agreed Tuesday to support seeking qualified resort status for the old Circle G Ranch, formerly owned by the late Elvis Presley. In hopes of hastening progress of the proposed $600 million golf and entertain resort, board members voted to send a letter on behalf of the developers to the Alcohol Beverage Commission division of the state tax commission. The letter will work as support for the tax commission granting the special status to the development. The board also approved a name change for the development to CGR International, Circle G Resorts Home of Elvis Presley Ranch. Developers were represented by J. D. Stacy, who has been working for years to make something of the vacant land but failed to secure the financing necessary to purchase the 155-acre property from the McLemore family. Stacy’s current plan features two hotels, two golf courses and a theatre. However, Stacy is not the only party expressing interest in purchasing the old Circle G Ranch. A Marion, Ark. developer, Jerry Hansard, has announced his intent to negotiate a deal to purchase the property. Hansard’s vision for the old Circle G include a music library, medical and residential community, he said in a DeSoto Times story last month. (News, Source: DeSoto Times)
The National Personnel Records Center, located in this St. Louis suburb, is highlighting the files of 150 prominent people who served in the military and died at least a decade ago, including several presidents, famous writers, professional athletes and military figures. Elvis' time in the military sparked high interest. Parents of enlisted men wrote letters, too, worried the star would get preferential treatment or early release. "I am sure us poor people can do without his singing and rock and roll until he serves his country just like my son has to,'' an Oak Park, Ill., mother wrote to a congressman. While the files provide a glimpse of social history, they also cross into the world of politics, literature, sports and entertainment. John F. Kennedy's file, for instance, has an account from the much-studied sinking of the PT 109, the Navy patrol torpedo boat he commanded as a lieutenant that sank after being rammed by a Japanese destroyer off the Solomon Islands. Jimmy Velvet joining "Elvis-A-Rama": is joining the staff of Elvis-A-Rama in Las Vegas soon. Velvet, who operated his own Elvis museums in Memphis and Nashville, and who took them on the road, as well, will serve as a tour guide in Vegas. (News, Source: Bill E. Burk) BMG announces US Singles boxset: The following singles are the ones that BMG in the US will release in the fall of 2005. The plan is to make a box like the one that was released in the UK months ago. The singles in this upcoming box will also be released one per week like BMG UK did with their box. Out of Elvis' 18 number one hits in the UK did the box give Elvis 3 more number ones and 15 more top 3 hits. The US box will contain Elvis' 20 US Cashbox number one hits (earlier reports had suggested ther US box would contain 21 #1 hits based on Elvis' Billboard and Cashbox achievements). The 20 tracks are:
2005 "Elvis Week" fan club presidents brunch: The theme for this year's brunch will be Girls! Girls! Girls! and our special guest will be Jeremy Slate, who co-starred with Elvis in Girls! Girls! Girls! and GI Blues. He will be with us to share behind-the-scenes stories about filming with Elvis. This year's event will be held on Friday, August 12, 2005, at the Memphis Marriott East, located at 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd. The brunch will be from 10:00am to 1:00pm. The charity this year will be the Memphis Food Bank. We ask that each person bring at least one item from the "much needed list," which includes: canned fruit, peanut butter, chunky soup, macaroni and cheese, canned meats (tuna, chicken, and ham), canned meat dishes (beef stew, chicken and dumplings, and chili), powdered milk (box of 1 quart envelopes is best package type), nad canned vegetables (green beans, corn, sweet peas, and pork and beans). Each fan club will receive one (1) free ticket, and has the opportunity to purchase up to three (3) additional tickets for $30.00 each. Please mail your registration form and payment for additional tickets into us by July 5. (News, Source: EPE)
"The Presley Alternative" - new book announced: Authors P.W. "Phil" Aitcheson and Deborah Wines will be releasing a book in early 2006 entitled, "The Presley Alternative", which will further discuss the details of "Fountain Pen", and other matters pertinent to the disappearance of the "King" in 1977. It will also make reference to actual evidence that proves the King didn't die after all, and will provide a positive outlook on the reasons for Elvis' leaving. (News, Source: The Presley Commission) Elvis "swindler" meets with US politician: The Liaison Office for The Presley Commission has discovered information regarding one of the co-conspirators from Operation Fountain Pen, the governments case against those responsible for the swindling of Elvis Presley from 1974 through 1982. Three time felon, Nigel Winfield met with House of Representatives member, Robert Ney, a Republican from Ohio. The meeting took place in 2003 concerning the interest of selling airplanes in the mideast. Winfield was one of the individuals who spent 6 years in Federal Prison for his role in the scam to take possession of Elvis' JetStar. (News, Source: The Presley Commission) "Elvis Mania" - novelty and tribute CD boxset: On 1 July 2005, Concert Products in the US is releasing a 7CD boxset called "Elvis Mania". It will feature 188 novelty and tribute songs about Elvis released between 1956 and 1990. To go on the mailing list for more information write to: Concert Products, P.O. Box 1522, Inverness, Florida, 34451, USA. (News, Source: Bill E. Burk) Why Andy Williams tried to be like Elvis: Veteran crooner Andy Williams recalled today the one time in his career when he tried to sound like Elvis. It was way back in summer of 1957 when his record label London-American were insisting that he should record a song called Butterfly. "I didn't want to do it," he revealed last night. "It was an uptempo number which I knew Presley could do very well. Against my better judgment I gave in, but not before I had listened to Elvis singing some of his quick stuff like Don't Be Cruel and Jail House Rock." So Andy, who plays the Waterfront on Thursday June 16, did record Butterfly the Presley way - and in the event it gave him his first No 1 hit in a vintage year of great pop hits like Around the World (Bing Crosby), When I Fall in Love (Nat King Cole), All Shook Up (Elvis) and We Will Make Love (Russ Hamilton). "I'm still singing Butterfly," says Williams. "I don't remember who wrote it, but it is the one song I was wrong about and yet so many people remember it with a lot of affection and associate it with me."But of all his hits Moon River remains his favourite. "It's my theme song, I love it." (News, Source: Belfast Telegraph) Priscilla will be on Larry King Live promoting "Elvis by the Presleys": Added to Priscilla Presley's appearance tour schedule in support of Elvis By The Presleys is a June 22nd appearance on Larry King Live. Check your local listings for times. Reminder: Priscilla will do a book and CD signing at Borders/Westwood in Los Angeles, California at 7:00 PM on June 10th. (News, Source: EPE) Elvis to feature in Chicken Soup magazine: Chicken Soup for the Soul magazine announced it will print its launch issue with two different covers, both featuring photographs of Elvis, said J. Mignonne Wright, publisher. Rare and never-before-seen photos of Elvis are included in the issue along with an interview with the photographer, Al Wertheimer. Wertheimer is considered to be one of the most famous Elvis photographers ever. (News, Source: EPE) Australia - "Elvis" helps raise money for charity: Garry "Elvis" Buckley helped the "Convoy for Cancer Families" drive as it raised more than A$30,000.00 to assist those affected by cancer. (News, Source: Canberra Advocate)
Elvis by the Presleys tops many UK book lists: "Elvis by the Presleys" is #1 on several leading book sales lists in Britain. (News, Source: Piers Beagley - EIN's roving reporter in England and Greece) House for sale near Graceland: Interested in living a short walk away from Graceland? If your answer is yes, contact Bill Burk for details of a house for sale on Craft Road. Photos available. (News, Source: Bill E. Burk) The complete "photo" Archive of Elvis' Macon, GA, April 24, 1975 concert is now available: This archive contains 125 photos, mainly of ELVIS. All photos are WAIST HIGH, and very few contain any of the band members. Three weeks after his first Vegas Engagement of 1975, Elvis begins his first tour of the year that will cover the Southeast part of the country. Macon marks the return of Bass player Jerry Scheff, who had left the band two years earlier. It is also where Elvis performs T-R-O-U-B-L-E live for the first time. Shots include: Elvis reading lyrics from a page, great smiles, powerful expressions while he sings, funny and unusual expression, and a neat shot of the back of the jumpsuit. (News, Source: Derek - email) Elvis was a bedroom flop: Legendary rocker ELVIS PRESLEY proved to be a bedroom disappointment when he attempted to bed 1970s icon PEGGY LIPTON - he couldn't get aroused. The former MOD SQUAD beauty, who lists SIR PAUL McCARTNEY and KEITH MOON among her sexual conquests, was disappointed when her liaison with the King Of Rock 'N' Roll turned into an anti-climax. Lipton, ex-wife of veteran musician QUINCY JONES, recalls, "He took me away on his plane and brought me up to Tahoe, I believe. We tried to go to bed right away... "There was nothing to talk about with Elvis. He was either doing his karate things or eating. There was really no dialogue there so we went to bed right away and it just didn't happen for him. We tried a few more times and nothing ever happened, so I just let it go." It wasn't the most important thing to say that I had really done something with Elvis. I kind of was interested in his heart and his soul. "He was very persistent in getting to know me, which I found interesting, so I saw him a number of times. But I did like him as a person. I thought he was kind of a beautiful person." (News, Source: Contact Music/Sanja Megin) "Now What" released in Australia next Sunday: Lisa Presley's 'Now What' album will be released in Australia on June 12. Unlike Capitol in the USA, EMI will only be releasing the 'explicit' lyrics version. Track listing: 1. I'll Figure It Out; 2. Turbulence; 3. Thanx; 4. Shine (featuring Pink); 5. Dirty Laundry; 6. When You Go; 7. Idiot; 8. High Enough; 9. Turn To Black; 10. Raven; 11. Now What. (News, Source: Amber Smith) "Elvis by the Presleys" on Firstnet: Firstnet will showcase the story of Elvis Presley — a brilliantly accomplished artiste, legendary performer — in the special TV show called Elvis By The Presleys on Star World today at 9pm followed by another TV special in tribute to the great artist of the century Elvis’ 68 Special at 11pm. (News, Source: Times of Oman) Burnin' Love drives prices at Elvis auction: The prices were out of range for some fans but the sale at auction of more than 200 rare pieces of Elvis memorabilia from the Forsher collection brought in a total of $48,400. (News, Source: SF Gate) "Elvis themed" Clambake will benefit Science Center: On Saturday, June 18 the Seacoast Science Center in Odiorne Point State Park will hold it’s 11th annual Clambake-by-the-Sea and Auction. The evening begins at 5 p.m. with a seaside reception on the Center’s oceanside lawn . A lobster, barbecued chicken, or eggplant parmesan dinner will be served under a tent at 6 p.m., catered by Foster’s Downeast Clambake. Auction items include a collection of photographs by Robert Karosis taken at Odiorne Point State Park, four Red Sox tickets, cooking lessons for two at Attrezzi, and a trip for two to Appledore Island with the Center’s Get-Aweigh Weekend. Attendee may come dressed in early 60’s-Elvis-Clambake style attire - Elvis is the theme of this year’s event. Continuing the legacy of Elvis’ philanthopy, Fred Bramante, CEO and founder of Daddy’s Junky Music, has donated enough wallet-sized, Elvis memoribilia for everyone to participate, all certified for authenticity. Tickets are $60 perperson; tables of 8 are available for $450. Reserve your seat by contacting Nikki at 436-8043, Ext. 20 or registrar@seacentr.org. (News, Source: Portsmouth Herald News) New Elvis Book Announced: A new book titled "Elvis" by Tom De Medeiros will be released by Gorman, Johnson Book Publishers, USA in September 2005. Paperback, ISBN: 092185736. (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch)
What is EPE up to?: The closure later this year of "Memories of Elvis" has many fans incensed. So why is the longstanding outlet being forced to close? EPE received two interesting messages about the issue which shed light both on what plans EPE may have for the site and the unfortunate political rhetoric engaged in by the company. (News, Source: Bill E. Burk/Sanja Meegin) New British Elvis TV special: Bill E. Burk tells us Pickle Productions in London is taping a special centering on Elvis in the 1940s and 1950s. Bill also said one Memphis interviewee, reportedly very close to Elvis, told of how Elvis, while attending Humes High, tried hard to dress like actor James Dean and copied Dean's hairstyle. Bill says the only problem with this story is that Dean's first major movie was released after Elvis graduated from Humes! (News, Source; Bill E. Burk) Vote for Elvis as "Greatest American": AOL Television is conducting a poll to identify the Greatest American. Starting out with 100 famous people the list will be reduced to 5 by 19 June. Click to vote for Elvis. (News, Source: AOL/Bill E. Burk/Sanja Meegin)
"Elvis World" magazine goes "full color": As Elvis World magazine enters its 20th year of publication it is going full color. (News, Source: Bill. E. Burk) A Profile, The King On Stage Vol. 2 for sale: We found this on the alt.elvis.king messageboard: "Great original & collectible Elvis box entitled: A Profile, The King On Stage Vol. 2. Includes 4 great soundboard concerts including: CD1: Lake Tahoe, May 27, 1974 (3am show)/ CD2: College Park, Maryland, September 28, 1974/ CD3: Dayton, Ohio, October 6, 1974 (Matinee)/ CD4: Las Vegas Hilton, March 22, 1975 (Midnite). Also free replica concert poster for Elvis Lake Tahoe. 3 of the 4 cds are still sealed! $185.00 + shipping. Email: jcoa...@atsamerica.com" (News, Source: alt.elvis.king)
Collectors Record opening promo: On June 11 2005 Collector Record will open their real Elvis shop in the Netherlands. Every visitor who buys an item for 10 Euro or more will receive a free promotional CD. The track listing: 01 Enjoying his comeback (August 3 1969 DS) / 02 Elvis talks about the early years (March 1972) / 03 Elvis backstage after the April 15th 1972 show / 04 Elvis backstage (April 16 1972) / 05 Press conference Hilton Hotel NY (June 9 1972) / 06 Harold Johnson talks to Elvis (August 9 1975) / (recorded at the Liberty Bowl Stadium, Memphis TN.) Bonus tracks recorded during the Lisa Marie “to whom it may concern” promotion tour: 07 Interview with Lisa Marie pt1 / 08 Interview with Lisa Marie pt2 / 09 Interview with Lisa Marie pt3 / 10 Another interview with Lisa Marie. (News, Source: Collector Records / Elvis News) Hype for Elvis reality TV search - Vegas first casting call on for Aug. 8-9: Elvis-A-Rama, the popular Las Vegas attraction that hosts more than $6 million in authentic memorabilia, will launch its world-wide search for the ultimate Elvis tribute artist with an open casting call, August 8-9. The Vegas shoot is open to all tribute artists worldwide, who are encouraged to show up for the pilot. The Las Vegas-based museum will follow up with elimination-style events in Memphis, New York, London, Madrid, Munich, Moscow, Sydney, Tokyo, Beijing, Honolulu and Mexico City. The results will be captured for a reality television series that will crown the ultimate impersonator, who will be rewarded with a lucrative recording contract. The top artist, as selected by the event's celebrity judging panel, will record a song "allegedly" co-written by Elvis Presley and Paul Terry King, "If I'd Only Bought Her Roses," which never saw vinyl. The release is expected to be an immediate, national hit. Elvis-A-Rama acquired 50% rights to the song earlier this year. The first casting call, conducted on stage at the Elvis-A-Rama Museum, will also provide a spotlight for another hopeful star: a youthful Elvis impersonator. "Elvis started singing as a young boy at church, and made his first singing appearance at the Mississippi-Alabama Fairgrounds," explained Elvis-A-Rama founder Chris Davidson, the world's most prolific collector of Elvis-owned memorabilia. "We know there is a lot of young talent out there, and we would like to give them the opportunity to shine, like Elvis did." The winner of the contest will receive a $3,000.00 scholarship. The youth stage of the event will feature contestants 8-to-17. The search for the King of would-be Kings will be aired over 16 episodes, with the Las Vegas pilot episode being shot and produced by Dice Films of Toluca Lake. Hopefuls will sing several songs, and judging will be based on vocal talent, appearance, stage presence. A casting call for 2 hosts/hostesses for the reality show is also being held at the 3401 Industrial Rd. location on June 24 between 1pm and 7pm. Elvis-A-Rama possesses a Class 41 International & US Class 107 Trademark related to entertainment services, namely, presenting a visual and audible narrative for the biography of Elvis Presley. Further details on the contest are available at www.elvisarama.com. (News, Source: PR Newswire) Elvis Live From The USA: After a delay of some weeks due to a technical problem the Dutch fan club announced the release of their fifth promo release with the title "Elvis Live From The USA". This CD is dedicated to "Elvis - The Concert". The CD comes in a seventies artwork and contains: Elvis comments, The Concert Segments 1997/ 2005, Elvis In Concert 1997, Band Introductions and Special Bonus tracks. 1. "I'm Very Happy To Be Here"/2. "Europe"/ 3. Elvis Talks About His First Movie /4. Elvis Introduces "Sweet Sweet Spirit"/ 5. Band Introductions** (February 22, 2000) / 6. "Elvis Turn Up The Lights"/ 7. "We Love To Sing For You"/ 8. Welcome from host George Klein/ 9. Intro part two by George Klein/ 10. Band Introduction by Elvis/ 11. Sound mistake/ 12. "Suspicious Minds"/ 13. Special thanks from Priscilla And Lisa/ 14. "Elvis Has Left The Building"/ 15. Las Vegas, February 15, 1970, Midnight Show/ 16. Hampton Roads, Virginia, April 9, 1972, evening show/ 17. Memphis, Tennessee, March 20, 1974*/ 18. Elvis Walking And Talking/ 19. "And I'm Never Gonna See My Wonderland" (from "Elvis On Tour")/ 20. Elvis talks about his gospel roots (March, 31, 1972)/ 21. "Good Show!" (from "Elvis On Tour"). *Rejected from the album "Recorded Live On Stage In Memphis" for the first time released on the FTD Collectors Label in 2004. **Audience recording. During the fan clubs event on June 18, 2005 every visitor gets a free and limited edition Elvis promo cd with the title “The Presleys”. More details shortly. (News, Source: Elvis News)
Elvis memorial vandalised: Vandals have destroyed a memorial to Elvis Presley placed in a New Zealand public park.The memorial, funded by the Memories of Elvis Fan Club of Auckland has stood in Cranwell Park since January 2000. Members of the public who were walking in the park, discovered the damage and reported it to the local council, who have now removed it for safe keeping. The attack would have been no easy task as the entire memorial is made from solid granite set in concrete and also reinforced with steel rods running through it.Sadly the memorial was not insured due to it being considered too high risk as it was in a public place. (News, Source: Elvis Express) How I turned green...and into Elvis: He looks and sounds a lot like the real deal, but why is this Elvis singing about his “Green Suede Shoes” and “Earth Day Rock”? Because this is Kansas City’s own Green Elvis, who — when he’s out of his sparkly green jumpsuit — is also known as Matt Riggs, whose job is to educate the public about recycling. He works for the Mid-America Regional Council. But how did Riggs, 33, become an environmentalist? And how did he become Green Elvis? Well, as a kid growing up in south Kansas City, he spent a lot of time exploring nature. In 1996, a year after graduating from the University of Missouri-Columbia, he landed a job managing KC’s Chouteau recycling center. Soon after, his gig was starting recycling programs in large office buildings. One day he was handing out office paper bins when in walked Elvis. Or, to be accurate, an Elvis look-alike. It was the day of the annual Elvis Parade. Riggs, who’d been brainstorming ways to do outreach, told a co-worker, “We need a green Elvis to get the excitement going.” A friend made him a jumpsuit, and in the fall of 1997 Green Elvis made his debut. An early hit was “I Reduce, I Reuse, I Recycle” — to the tune of “I Want You, I Need You, I Love You.” These days Green Elvis makes appearances at schools, conferences and the like. His current jumpsuit is a hunka-hunka recycled materials including pop-can tabs, bottle caps and lids from frozen OJ cans. Riggs, as Green E, is also planning to record a CD, which he hopes will come out this summer. It should include faves like “Viva Las Vegans,” “Burning Globe” and “Eco Man” (a knockoff of “Guitar Man”). Got a question about what’s recyclable? Riggs mans MARC’s recycling hotline: (816) 474-8326. If you’re lucky, maybe he’ll answer as Elvis. (News, Source: Sanja Meegin) "Viva Las Vegas" marathon run: Elvis's "Viva Las Vegas," a fireworks display and big cash prizes will be offered for runners when the New Las Vegas Marathon starts later this year on the Strip. Organizers say today the December race should draw 15-thousand runners. (News, Source: KESQ)
Elvis in Karate Hall of Fame: Elvis Presley was devoted to the study of martial arts and is considered the first person to display martial arts in a Hollywood movie and he was even producing what would have been the first docu-movie delving into the origins of the ancient art. The Kings commitment to the martial arts has now garnered Elvis, who rose to the position of an eight-degree black belt, a place in the Martial Arts Hall of Fame in New York. Elvis is to receive the "In Memory Of Award". Elvis will join forces with other legends of martial arts, including Chuck Norris, Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee. Everett Dutschke, lead instructor at Tupelo Taekwondo Plus will represent Tupelo at the induction ceremony in the Big Apple and former Tennessee congressman Harold Ford of Memphis will represent that city, home to Elvis' Graceland mansion. Duplicate awards will also be presented for placement at Graceland and the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum in Tupelo. Dutschke said "I think it's long overdue. I've been lobbying hard, because this is good for Tupelo. It's probably just being done now because nobody asked before. (News, Source: The Elvis Express) "Elvis by the Presleys" fails to win timeslot "downunder": Despite pulling reasonable numbers, Elvis by the Presleys was well beaten by both the movie, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, and Law and Order: Criminal Intent in Sydney, Australia last night. In Melbourne, the special fared better with 394,000 viewers, being beaten into second place behind My Big Fat Greek Wedding (514,000 viewers). As many fans feared, being screened on the publicly funded ABC network rather than one of the three "ratings pulling" commercial networks, the special suffered in the ratings. Australia wide ratings will be available later in the week. (News, Source: 2UE/Broadcast TV)
Other rarities include a previously unreleased 1957 Canadian radio broadcast about the afternoon performance in Toronto/a Gold Record Award presentation from August 1972/an unreleased rehearsal of "Don't Cry Daddy" from August 4th, 1970 in Las Vegas/some soundboard recordings in better sound quality such as the live version of "True Love Travels On A Gravel Road", "Kentucky Rain" and "Bridge Over Troubled Water". Track listing : 01- Lawdy, Miss Clawdy (tk. 9) Feb. 3, 1956 2:09 / 02- Shake, Rattle And Roll (tk. 13 - master take without backing vocal overdub) Feb. 3, 1956 2:22 / Blueberry Hill (Binaural tk. 8) Jan. 19, 1957 2:35 / 04- Loving You (farm version 3) (Tk. 6) Feb. 14, 1957 2:01 / 05- Elvis Shakes His Pelvis In Canada (previously unreleased radio broadcast) April 2, 1957 2:07 / 06- Riding The Rainbow (Tk. 6 , second version) 148 / 07- Fountain Of Love (Tk. 8, 6) March 18, 1962 2:42 / 08- Kissin' Cousins (Number 2) (Take 4, previously unreleased master without backing vocal overdub) Oct. 10, 1963 1:14 / 09- Smokey Mountain Boy (Tk. 3, previously unreleased master without banjo overdub) Oct. 10, 1963 2:34 / 10- Tender Feeling (Tk. 1, previously unreleased master without backing vocals) Oct. 10, 1963 2:30 / 11- So Close Yet So Far (From Paradise) (Tk. 2*, 3) (* previously unreleased) Feb. 25, 1965 3:17 / 12- The Love Machine (Tk. 12, master) Sept. 29, 1966 2:53 / 13- Stay Away (Tk. 5, 10, guitar overdub Tk. 1) (previously unreleased) Jan. 17, 1968 2:59 / 14- If I'm A Fool (For Loving You) (Tk. 5,4) (previously unreleased) Feb. 21, 1969 1:23 / 15- Wearin' That Loved On Look (Tk. 1*, 9*, 11) (* previously unreleased) Jan. 13, 1969 3:38 / 16- What I'd Say ? (Las Vegas, NV. August 21, 1969 midnight show) 3:57 / 17- True Love Travels On A Gravel Road (Las Vegas, NV January 26, 1970 opening night) 2:51 / 18- Kentucky Rain (Las Vegas, NV January 26, 1970 opening night) 3:12 / 19- Heartbreak Hotel (Las Vegas, NV February 23, 1970 closing night) 1:35 / 20- One Night (Elvis on electric guitar) (Las Vegas, NV February 23, 1970 closing night) 2:33 / 21- You Don't Have To Say You Love Me (with reprise) July 29, 1970 rehearsal 3:29 / 22- Don't Cry Daddy (August 4, 1970 rehearsal) (previously unreleased) 2:31 / 23- Bridge Over Troubled Water (Richmond, VA April 10, 1972) 4:00 / 24- Gold Record Award presentation to Elvis (Las Vegas, NV. August 1972) (previously unreleased) 0:35 / 25- Steamroller Blues (Las Vegas, NV Jan. 29, 1973 dinner show) 2:47 / 26- It's Midnight (Las Vegas, NV August 30, 1974 midnight show) 3:13 / 27- Burning Love (Charlotte, NC March 20, 1976 evening show) (previously unreleased binaural) 2:46 / 28- Hurt (Charlotte, NC March 20, 1976 evening show) (previously unreleased binaural) 2:13 / 29- Love Letters (Birmingham, AL Dec. 29, 1976) (previously unreleased binaural) 2:44 / 30- Radio Ad for Elvis Aron Presley LP box-set (1980) (previously unreleased) 1:03. (News, Source: For CD Collectors Only) Elvis mania overtakes Tupelo: Two-inch thick sideburns, snow-white bell bottoms lined with gold sequins and more hip swinging than a hoola-hoop convention: It could only have been the Elvis Festival. Hundreds of people piled on Front Street on Saturday to participate in Elvis mania. Even the dogs was struck with Elvis fever. As participants in the Elvis lookalike pet parade, about a dozen dogs shook their tails down the street wearing everything from sun shades to bell bottoms. "They look more like Elvis than some of the impersonators," one woman joked. Full of turkey legs and chicken on the stick, the crowd grew restless waiting on the first of six bands to go on. When the Paul Rainy Band hit the stage, the once-dwindling crowd began to grow. "Now that's what I'm talking about; it's time to get this party started," yelled Mitchell Douglas of Little Rock, Ark. "I came here to see Rainy." Performing renditions of various Elvis songs, the band kept the crowd rocking and rolling. Cheryl Kennedy of McGee, Ark., won an Elvis weekend in Tupelo from the Convention and Visitors Bureau. Seeing Chuck Berry perform on Friday night was the climax of her trip, but that didn't stop Kennedy from dropping in Saturday to enjoy the other acts. When Travis LeDoyt performed "Blue Suede Shoes," Kennedy, her sister, aunt and mother jumped up and did a little twisting and shouting. "This is our first Elvis Festival, and it's great," said a slightly winded Kennedy. "We've enjoyed good food, good music and good fun." Although the first two acts were great, said Leigh Harvey of Saltillo, Paul Thorn and Steve Azar were the people she came to see. "I enjoyed everyone, but I've been craving some Thorn and Azar," said Harvey. "They are more than worth the admission." Tracy Byrd and Wild Magnolias also performed Saturday. Front Street wasn't the only part of town booming with Elvis fans. The Elvis Birth Place and Museum saw its biggest crowd since the festival was started. "I have never seen this many people come to the museum in the five years I've worked here," said Nina Holcomb the museum's hostess. "The gift shop sales are through the roof; we've never seen a day this big." (News, Source: Daily Journal) New "audience" recordings: Two new import releases have been announced. The first one is "There Goes My Everything" with an audience recording of Elvis' February 19, 1971 concert. The second one is an audience recording entitled "Back On Mainland" with a performance from January 26, 1973. (News, Source: Elvis News) If I Can Dream via Satellite: 'Elvis The Concert' producer, Stig Edgren has been signed up to produce an up coming concert to mark the 60th anniversary of the United Nations on October 26th 2005. The concert will be broadcast live on TV around the world and Edgren is said to be very keen on getting permission from EPE to be able to end the concert with Elvis' 1968 performance of "If I Can Dream" with the TCB band and the Sweet Inspirations playing along live. The concert is still in the development stages but the possibility of having the Elvis performance is looking very promising. (News, Source: Elvis Express) Elvis' shirt from King Creole re-listed on eBay: On 17 May we mentioned that Elvis' shirt from King Creole was for sale. Well it's been relisted on ebay and to date the "reserve price" is yet to be met. eBay # 7520566859. (News, Source: Sanja Meegin) Ridiculous eBay listing: In the vein of "Wade the Elvis water guy" comes another outlandish listing on eBay. With a starting price of US$199,000.00 can you resist bidding on this unusual item, partly described as "...authentic sand from the beaches of Hawaii that was collected by my husband during the filming of Elvis's movie. My husband was born and raised in HI. Be the only one in The world with sand that the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presely, has walked on." eBay # 7520680589. (News, Source: Sanja Meegin) "Aloha From Hawaii" Aussie chart update: The deluxe edition of Aloha From Hawaii slipped nine places to #40 on this week's ARIA Music DVD chart in Australia. The DVD has been in the Top 40 for 21 weeks and is certified Platinum. (News, Source: ARIA)
EPE forcing "Memories of Elvis" to close: The last remaining "independent" store around Graceland, Memories of Elvis", is to close its doors on 30 November 2005. Here is part of the statement from Memories of Elvis. (News, Source: Elvis Express) Marty Lacker confirms UK reissue of "Revelations of the Memphis Mafia book: Marty Lacker posted this message on alt.elvis.king: Thought I'd let y'all know, especially the people who have emailed me or asked on the ng, how they might get a copy of our book ELVIS AARON PRESLEY: Revelations From The Memphis Mafia, that we have just concluded a deal for the book to be republished first in the UK and all it's territories this fall and then in the US next year. The book will be a soft cover Trade Edition which is like the hardcover but with a soft cover. The cover is a brand new design and features a new picture and art and a new title: Elvis And The Memphis Mafia." (News, Source: alt.elvis.king) It's now or never - buy Elvis' old home: Want to live like The King? All you need is $2.5 million. That's the asking price for Elvis Presley's former Chino Canyon Road home, newly listed for sale. Coldwell Banker Real Estate agent Desiree Otero confirmed Friday that the owners put the house on the market "just a couple days ago." The 5,040-square-foot estate rests on almost two acres in Palm Springs' Little Tuscany neighborhood. Presley lived there with his wife, Priscilla, and recorded part of his "Raised on Rock" album there. And before his death, Presley had planned to invest in the property with some additional remodeling, according to Steve Christopher, the Montgomery, Ala.-based host of "Elvis on the Air" traveling radio show. "The connection that this house has, besides the fact that a couple of his songs were recorded there, is that this was one that Elvis planned to keep," said Christopher, a Graceland-endorsed expert who has emceed events at the Palm Springs house in the past. "It's got a little more significance to Elvis fans than others." Presley bought the Spanish-style ranch for $85,000 in 1970. It was the only property the star owned in Palm Springs. Another home, located on Ladera Circle, is also of Presley fame because Elvis and Priscilla Presley honeymooned there. In the last few months, the West Chino Canyon estate has been mired in legaldispute. Reno Fontana and a former business partner, Herman "Skip" Jaehne of Venice, Fla., are suing each other over the property. Fontana had been living in the house with his family. He told The Desert Sun a few months ago that he and Jaehne had an unwritten pact that Jaehne would use his credit to get the loan and to put his name on the house's title. But the deal, according to Fontana, was that the men would split ownership. Jaehne, however, has argued that Fontana has lived there without paying rent. Fontana, Jaehne and their respective attorneys did not return calls for comment Friday afternoon. Fontana was selling $20, half-hour tours of the house while he stayed there. Fans could also stay in Presley's private suite for $1,000 anight. Court records show that lawsuits brought by Fontana and Jaehne against each other are moving through the Riverside County Superior Court and California District Court of Appeals. Realtor Otero said Friday that no open house is scheduled. But she declined to say anything else about the sale. She did not say who she was representing in the sale. "The seller has asked me to have no comment," she said. (News, Source: The Desert Sun/Sanja Meegin) Elvis shop opens next week in Vienna: A shop dedicated to selling Elvis Presley memorabilia is opening in Vienna on Thursday. Elvis fans will be able to find shelf upon shelf of related items at the shop in the upmarket Alsergrund district. Items range from cheap souvenirs to £1,300 authorised copies of Elvis suits made by thesinger's tailor. The store is also far larger than any of the nearby stores dedicated to more traditional Vienna musical greats like Beethoven and Mozart. "People can buy anything Elvis related here, from cheap trinkets to high-quality products," said owner Wolfgang Hahn, who is a friend of Presley's widow Priscilla. A guitar once played by Presley and several authentic autographs and guitar picks will be on display in a small museum in the shop. Hahn said: "I want to make Austria a mecca for Elvis fans. And I want people to know how original Elvis was. A phenomenon like that will probably never come around again. Elvis is one of the most undervalued artists ever." The shop will also provide its own shuttle service to Vienna from all over Austria. (News, Sanja Meegin)
Elvis is making a killing: Drugs, hamburgers and even death have not blunted the appeal of the original rock star, writes Harry Mount. When Elvis died at the age of 42 on his ensuite loo at Graceland on August 16, 1977, he was in a terrible way. (Spotlight Article, Source: Fairfax Digital/Sydney Morning Herald) Access all areas...Polaroid memories of Elvis: This week, 49 years ago, Elvis Presley performed Hound Dog, and the new rock 'n' roll was born. Paul McNamee talks to Al Wertheimer, a photographer who was given exclusive access to The King during that first, heady flush of fame. (Spotlight/Interview, Source: Belfast News) More suspect Elvis autographs on eBay!: There are currently around 10 Elvis autographs listed on eBay. Some of these are either obvious fakes or highly suspect. As EIN has said many times before, "buyer beware!!"(News, Source: eBay)
Hawaiian Reunion 2006: March 2006 will be an important date for fans fond of Elvis’s Hawaiian movies (“Blue Hawaii”, “Paradise Hawaiian Style”). By that time, everybody involved in one of the Hawaiian movies, is invited to fly to Hawaii to participate in a big reunion. Co-stars, producers, song writers and other people from the Hawaiian movie scene already got an invitation. Suzanna Leigh confirmed the news to Elvis Matters. Also, there’s a good possibility that the reunion will be taped for a DVD-release. The DVD would focus on Elvis’s favorite holiday place on earth. (News, Source: Elvis Matters) Elvis wanted to be a preacher: Elvis Presley's ex-wife Priscilla believes the laterock and roll legend would have quit showbiz and become a preacher. The 60-year-old Priscilla said Elvis would have swapped the stage for the pulpit if he hadn't died so young, reports celebrity portal Femalefirst. She said: "I could see him going into preaching because that's something he really actually wanted to do from a very young age. He loved preachers. I think he could see himself doing that." (News, Source: HindustanTimes.com) Elvis anyone? From Jackson to Tupelo, the king lives on: Can't help falling in love with this weekend - it's heartthrob central. First, the classic: Elvis Presley. Catch the resurrection of his spirit in Idols of the King at New Stage Theatre, where Lance Zitron makes the black leather dance and Jo Ann Robinson and ChrisRoebuck double-handedly portray his fan base. It's a scream, and feel free to join in. For more kingly rock 'n' roll, go to Tupelo for the Elvis Festival, where the lineup offers Chuck Berry, Paul Thorn, Steve Azar and more. (News, Source: The Clarion-Ledger) Search is on for Elvis look-a-like: The search is on for Elvis look-a-likes for a contest to see who looks most like the King. The winner will enjoy a VIP dinner at A Little Sweat Dream Diner, while the others will be left "All Shook Up." Organizers of the contest are arranging the competition, which will be held on the square to celebrate Sweet-water's 50th anniversary of Elvis Presley's concert at the Municipal Auditorium. The Trail of Lights committee will host a day-long event to commemorate the anniversary on Saturday, June 11. All activities will be held in downtown Sweetwater, around the square and at the Muni-cipal Auditorium. An arts and crafts show will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Booths are still available and are $25 each for a 10 foot by 10 foot spot. A '50s fashion show and a classic car show and cruise is also scheduled. There is also something for the kids to do during the day as a "Hound Dog" coloring contest and teddy bear costume contest will be held. The highlight of the festivities will be at 8 p.m. at the Sweetwater Municipal Auditorium. Elvis impersonator Donnie Roberts will perform a concert of some of Presley's greatest hits. Potential look-a-likes can leave their contact information with the Chamber by email at lynn@sweetwatertexas.org. (News,Source: Sanja Meegin/Sweetwater Reporter)
Suzi Quatro Elvis tribute single update: On 24 April we mentioned that rock & roll Queen, Suzi Quatro, was recording a tribute single to Elvis. We heard the demo of Singing with Angels earlier today and it is a beauty! On the single (recorded in Nashville last month), Suzi is backed by The Jordanaires and James Burton. James was so impressed during the recording that he has asked Suzi if he can join her band on her tour to launch the single. The single will be released shortly. (News, Source: John Laws radio show, 2UE) New Elvis horror film?: A fan named "Lisa" posted this message and link on alt.elvis.king: "Don't know if you've heard about this or not. A new scare flick coming out. Might be Elvis related. Have a peek. Devil made me do it.....http://www.elvicities.com/~italianjob/exor1.html (News, Source: Lisa, alt.elvis.king) "The Jordanaires" in Collingwood, Canada: The Jordanaires will be appearing with Tim E & the Yes Men and Australia's Dean Vegas on June 10 at the Gayety Theatre in Collingwood, Canada. For details contact K. DeNike. (News, Source: K. DeNike)
Elvis The Concert to be released on DVD - not true!: The Elvis Matters website reported that a DVD edition of Elvis The Concert (not "Elvis In Concert") is to be released but a posting on the EPE website dismisses the claim. Elvis Matters said: "After years of speculations, the decision has finally been made: there will be a DVD-release of "Elvis The Concert" next year. All agreements with the musicians and copyright holders have been made. The producers will use the footage of the so called "Anniversary Concert" of August 16th 2002, as recorded at the Memphis Pyramid. Although the news was officially confirmed to us, it's still unclear when exactly in 2006 the DVD is released".
Elvis is the most handsome man: Spread over two pages, the Belgian newspaper “Het Laatste Nieuws” gave its readers a list of the 100 most handsome men ever. The journalists found their inspiration in the British magazine “Harpers and Queen”. On top of the list is Elvis, who won the contest because of his "divine smile and irresistible sex-appeal". (News, Source: Elvis Matters) "Elvis by the Presleys" Australia update: The RRP for the Elvis by the Presleys CD is A$29.95. The RRP for the DVD edition is A$34.95. Discount prices are expected through stores like K-Mart. (News, Source: BMG Australia) Friends, associates help celebrity coroner with legal bills: He's helped investigate the deaths of former Federal Bureau of Prisons intern Chandra Levy, JonBenet Ramsey and Elvis Presley and the assassinations of U.S. president John F. Kennedy and his brother. Now Allegheny County Coroner Cyril Wecht is getting help from friends and associates, including well-known forensic scientist Henry Lee, to pay his legal bills from an ongoing federal investigation. Federal authorities in Pittsburgh are investigating whether Wecht, 74, or any of his employees worked on private cases during county time. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported last month that the files included the Kennedy assassination; the deaths of Elvis Presley, White House Counsel Vincent Foster and Commerce Secretary Ron Brown; and the prosecution of Erik and Lyle Menendez, brothers convicted of murdering their parents in their Beverly Hills mansion in 1989. EIN note: Dr Wecht's book "Cause of Death", published by Penguin in 1993 & 1994, included a chapter (Covering up for The King) about Elvis' death. (News, phillyburbs.com/AP)
‘Elvis Is Back!’ (FTD Review): In early 1960 Elvis Presley’s future career would hinge on just two night’s recording sessions. Had Elvis not created such quintessential million-selling music on these two crucial nights he could have been relegated to the fifties rock’n’roll vaults along with Bill Haley and the like. EIN explores the new double deluxe FTD release to discover why it is an essential purchase. (FTD Review, Source: EIN) EIN is now taking orders for the three FTD releases to be released on 1 July. (News, Source: EIN) "Elvis by the Presleys" DVD goes Gold in New Zealand: After the TV special broadcasted in Zealand, last saturday the 28th on TV ONE, the "Elvis By The Presleys" DVD enters the New Zealand music DVD chart at #9 this week. The DVD has already reached Gold status in its first sales week. The CD "Elvis by the Presleys" CD enters the Top 10 Heatseekers chart at #1 in New Zealand this week. (News, Source: Elvis News) Marty Lacker "cropped" from wedding photo in "Elvis by the Presleys": The alt.elvis.king messageboard has drawn attention to one of Elvis' best men at his wedding, Marty Lacker, being cut out (cropped) from the wedding photo in the recent "Elvis by the Presleys" documentary. (News, Source: alt.elvis.king) "Elvis for Babies" re-issue in CD tin: The album, Elvis for Babies, originally released by Valley Entertainment, has been reissued in a CD tin. The original album featured 10 instrumental tracks of Elvis favorites including Don't Be Cruel, Are You Lonesome Tonight?, Crying in the Chapel, Wild in the Country and Wooden Heart. Each track was designed to relax babies and help them get to sleep. (News, Source: Elvis Presley Records by Mail) Don't be afraid to scream!: At Carlisle and Whitworth streets, Elvis has not left the building. And thankfully won't, for weeks yet. (News/Almost Elvis, Source: Clarion-Ledger)
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