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2007/08/31 Bud Glass - The King's Ransom Elvis Exhibition - Andylon Lensen / www.epgold.com

Pep from a messageboard received an email from Angie Marchese Director of Archives. Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc

Let me start with these questions from your other email:

The short cape worn in both show and tossed into the audience was flown to Hawaii on January 11,1973.

A second cape to replace the one in Hawaii was then made and worn by Elvis in Vegas in Jan/Fed. 1973.

The 3rd cape was delivered to Graceland in March of 1973 and billed on IC invoice dated April 3,1973 in the amount of $785.00. Which makes sense, this cape was a replacement cape after Elvis had given the 2nd one away to Ed Parker in Las Vegas.

No matching Eagle jumpsuit is listed on that invoice and if as previously believed it was delivered at that time, it would of appeared on that invoice.

Not the invoice from January 73. IC only invoiced items once they were give to Elvis not when they were ordered. Vernon would only pay for items that they had received. That was his way of making sure they got what they were being billed for. That is apparent over and over again as we go through the document collection.

It also has been rumored for many years that the 2nd Aloha/Eagle suit was not delivery to Graceland until March of 1973. I had heard and at one time believed that as well. Because a person involved with the making of the suits had told that to me.

One thing I have learned from being in the archives is that memories and stories do fade and change over the years. That is why we rely on our documents/photos and videos to confirm historical fact about our collection.

As mentioned before, it was by close viewing of both shows and photo research in our collection that you can confirm without a doubt that the suits worn by Elvis in those shows are different, small differences, but enough of them to confirm that there were indeed two (2) Eagle Suits in Hawaii in January 1973.

Hope this answers your questions,

Angie

It seems everyone is now satisfied with this answer and the rumours should come to an end!

But for Ep.Gold there is a new mistery raised to this answer from Angie Marchese; What happened and where is the Eagle Suit Elvis worn for the Aternate Aloha Special?

According to Angie Marchese a 3rd cape was delivered to Graceland in March of 1973 and billed on IC invoice dated April 3,1973 in the amount of $785.00.

Which makes sense, this cape was a replacement cape after Elvis had given the 2nd one away to Ed Parker in Las Vegas.

Why does it make sense Elvis made this replacement Delivered in March of 1973, worn by Elvis on tour, because he had given the 2nd one away to Ed Parker?

On August 16, 2007, the people in the whole world celebrated the 30th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death.

For this occasion, a group of Polish best rythm'n'blues musicians gathered together and recorded a new version of one of the Elvis Presley's hits: Burning Love.

The band consisted of: Andrzej "Papa Gonzo" - a vocalist from the band "Gang Olsena" Arkadiusz Kuś - a drummer of Stachurski Adam Kłos - solo guitar Adam "Karwa" Rusek - bass guitar, among the other Shakin' Dudi and the wind section: Sebastian Sołdrzyński (trumpet), Kuba Moroń (trombone), Adam Went (saxophone).

A few days later a special music video with the dance group VOLT was created.

The Polish Elvis Presley Fan Club was asked by the musicians to present this recording to all fans of the King of rock'n'roll, which we do now.

Your faithfully,

Mariusz Ogiegło - Presiedent Of Elvis Presley Fan Club of Poland "Raised On Rock"

Following our story yesterday that Vernon's home on Dolan Drive had been purchased by EPE and was set for demolition, author Jim Cox sent us this message correcting the report:

"I just saw the info on your site about Vernon's house on Dolan Dr., and the possibility of it being demolished.

Just wanted to update you on it. I immediately called the owner of the house, a friend of mine, and he had not seen your site yet. When I asked him if it was true that EPE had bought the Dolan Dr. house and was planning to knock it down he laughed and said, "Well, that's news to me."

He wanted me to let everyone know that, not only is the house NOT being sold OR demolished, but that he is hard at work re-storing it to it's original condition, and hopes to have it ready for Elvis-related events sometime in the near future.

From what I saw while I was there during Elvis Week, he is taking great pride in making sure that everything is being put back into it's original condition. Just wanted to pass this info on to you to hopefully clear up the misunderstanding."

There should be a "site under construction" notice with visuals soon.

According to Roger Semon "there’s a delay in the full launch as they prioritised all there other sites old and new for the recent and up and coming promotions.

I don’t expect a fully operational site until Nov at the earliest. And will launch its own website at the end of this year or early next year."

Roger Semon confirmed to ElvisNews that the November 2007 Follow That Dream releases will be "Girls! Girls! Girls!" and "Pot Luck".

The first title will be a single disc, the latter a 2CD. Both titles will come as seven inch gatefold sets.

2007/08/31 Source: Roger Semon - www.elvisnews.com / www.epgold.com

Alex Shoofey Passed Away.

Alexander James Shoofey, who rose from humble beginnings in a Brooklyn orphanage to become a Las Vegas gaming giant, successively running the Sahara, Flamingo and Las Vegas Hilton resorts in the 1960s and early '70s, died Wednesday. He was 91.

The day after Elvis Presley opened at Las Vegas' Hotel International in 1969, the resort's president, Alex Shoofey, was in the showroom having a cup of coffee with Presley's manager, Colonel Tom Parker.

Despite a hugely successful opening night, Shoofey was unhappy because the king of rock 'n' roll had been contracted to only two weeks a year at the new 1,500-room resort that today is the Las Vegas Hilton.

"Listen," Shoofey recalled telling Parker in his 2003 UNLV oral history interview. "I'd like to extend your contract ."

Parker balked: "Alex, it's too early. Let's find out whether he (Presley) can make it or not."

"I'll take that chance right now," Shoofey said. He then scribbled on the tablecloth a new pact that would result in more than 700 sell out performances from 1969 to 1976, resparking Presley's career and making him a Las Vegas icon.

2007/08/31 Various / www.epgold.com

OPEN: Saturday & Sunday August 31 & September 1, 2007 - 1300. PM - 1800 PM.

E-Mail: elvisinternational@casema.nl

The Netherlands : 0251 - 821240
Other Country's Dial : 00 - 31 - 251 - 821240

2007/08/24 ElvisInternational / www.epgold.com

Hello,

I would like to react on the today's article from TCB Collector about the two Aloha suits.

It’s true the left suit on the picture was only used during the April and June/July tour of 1973, the August/September 1973 Season in Las Vegas, the January/February 1974 Season in Las Vegas and the March 1974 tour.

It was a third and larger version of the 1973 “American Eagle” and was designed after the Aloha Special because Elvis has put on some weight.

But, Elvis did receive and used two different suits on January 12th and January 14th. First of all there is a bill of sale that proved two suits were made for the Aloha Special. The bill of sale is dated January 17th , 1973.

Also, if you compare pictures of the Rehearsal Show and the actual Satellite Show you will discover a difference in the star pattern on the belly just below the eagle’s tale.

On the suit used during the Rehearsal Show you can see a tiny gold star on each side of the belly. The suit used during the Satellite Show has a larger extra star on the right side of the belly close to the zipper. Also the distance between the eagle’s tale and the studded pattern on the hip is larger on the Satellite suit.

Another myth that doesn’t seem to die is the actual designer of the suits. It was NOT designed by Bill Belew. Bill only designed Elvis’ stage wear between 1968 and 1972 and the 1975 Two-Pieces. All other suits were designed by Gene Doucette including the three versions 1973 “American Eagle”.

I hope these facts will shine a new light on the subject…..

Kind regards,

Leroy Smith

Leroy is not completely correct in this matter. Although the receipt does show two suits, this has nothing to do with delivery.

However the second of the suits was delivered after the fact. The suit was delivered in March of 1973, which is a fact, and is100% verifiable.

Prior to the March delivery the second suits measurements were changed, and yes there are some differences between the studding of the two suits, but not in the manner that Leroy was asserting.

Unfortunately there are far too many rumors when it comes to Elvis, and everyone is always positioning themselves to be #1.

If you were to believe some accounts of the Aloha suits, then there should be 10 belts, 4 suits, and 11 capes.

That alone shows the absurdity of uneducated comments, and the transformation of fact into myth. Here is the breakdown of the Aloha gear to date:

Suits (2)

One suit used during both the Aloha rehearsal, and telecast performance. Second suit delivered in march of 1973, and worn by Elvis on tour.

Capes (4)

Cape #1:

Used in both the rehearsal, and telecast performance, thrown into the crowd by Elvis, and donated to EPE from Andrew Kearn Estate.

Cape #2:

Delivered in March of 1973, worn by Elvis on tour, and given to Ed Parker in 1975.

Cape #3:

3rd short version made by IC Costumes in 1978 by request of Col Tom Parker, then donated to the Hilton Hotel.

Worn by Elvis in both the rehearsal, and telecast Aloha performances. Thrown into the crowd, and has not surfaced to date.

Belt #2:

Delivered in March of 1973 worn by Elvis on tour, and given to Ed Parker in 1975.

Belt #3:

Alternate belt made sometime in the end of 1973, and early 1974, currently on display at Graceland.

Belt #4:

Belt made by IC Costumes by request of Col Tom Parker, and donated to the Hilton Hotel in 1978.

Yes Bill Belew, and Gene Doucette designed Elvis's suits, however there has never been any debate that Gene was responsible, but not credited for the majority of Elvis stage wear.

Bill had the name, therefore the credit. This point is mute, and has nothing to do with the subject.

It certainly does make sense there was a back up suit made for the Aloha TV special.

Ep.Gold will contact Butch Polston from B&K Enterprises, he would certainly be the one to straighten this out, as he's known Bill Belew and Gene Doucette for over 25 years.

What everyone seems to agree on is that, the suit worn on the actual broacast was at the Las Vegas Hilton for all those years, is finally back at Graceland.

According to EPE Elvis wore two different suits then: one on the 12th for the rehearsal show, and another for the actual broadcast the following day. The cape that Elvis tossed in the audience, is now the center piece of the Aloha display.

The suits on display are two different suits. Let me explain:

The Aloha suit that has been on display at Graceland from the begining is the suit that was delivered to Elvis in March of 1973. It was never worn during either Aloha shows!

Bill Belew had made two suits for the show, however the 2nd suit was not completed on time, therefore not used in January of 1973.

The suit from March of 1973 has different larger measurments than that of the suit worn during both the rehersal show, and Aloha special.

The second suit on display was aquired from the Hitlon Hotel in Las Vegas where it had been on display since 1978. This was the suit worn by Elvis during both the rehersal and Aloha performances.

The suit was donated to the Hilton Hotel in 1978 by Vernon Presley, and Col. Tom Parker, along with a guitar, and stage boots. When the suit was donated, there was no corresponding cape, so Col Parker had IC Costumes make another cape to donate to the Hilton. I first saw this suit on display in 1993 at the Hitlon.

The Estate of Ed Parker does not, and has never had either of the Aloha suits. Elvis gave Ed the cape that was delivered with the second suit in March of 1973, and was worn from that date until 1974 when Elvis no longer wore the suit on stage.

How did Graceland aquire the suit?

Well that is a long complex story, but in a nut shell, EPE wanted it back, the Hilton did not want to give it back because it was placed on permanent loan from Vernon and the Col.

During this conflict the Hilton took the suit down, and placed it in the employee lounge area in the open, where people began pulling studs off the suits reproduction cape, and where it was exposed to smoke etc. I personaly viewed the suit in this location, and brought my concerns to the hotel.

From there they removed the suit, and placed it in storage. There were other interested private parties soliciting the Hilton for purchase of the suit, but they declined offers.

Last year EPE managed to get the suit back, along with the other donated items, and now they have the suit on display.

I am not aware of the conditions, or how EPE got the suit, but either way at least the suit will now be cared for properly.

Although I have not seen the new display, if it is true that the suits are labled as one worn during the rehersal, and the other worn during the telecast, well that is simply incorrect information.

Sounds more like saving face, then historical fact.

To date Ed Parkers Estate still has the cape given to Ed in 1975, which was not worn during either show, it was delivered in March of 1973 with the other suit.

EPE has the cape Elvis wore during the Aloha rehearsal and telecast, donated by the Andrew Kearn Estate.

The original belt worn thrown to the crowd has still never surfaced, and the belt on display at Graceland is a replacement belt worn by Elvis on tour, but not on either of the Aloha concerts.

This should clear any rumors that have surfaced, as the information is 100% verifiable, and direct from the parties involved since 1997.

The cape and Belt is now owned by Collector Larry Moss in Memphis, he purchased it from Ed Parker's estate.

Also the Aloha belt that Ed Parkers Estate had that went with the 2nd short cape, it is original, but also not worn until after the Aloha special.

Last week and this week too, Elvis fans are flooding Memphis, Tennessee on the 30th anniversary of Elvis death.

All Elvis product picked up steam and from our independent reports was selling so well the newest RCA releases were sold out in some areas.

Our competition has this product at a low chart position, however two of these releases vaulted to # 1 in Cashbox.

When is the world going to learn everything isn't soundscanned. A lot of Elvis product moved VIA independent vendors who don't know what soundscan is.

I know we got it right. Sorry Billboard, you need to send some folks out in the field especially around Memphis and maybe you would get this weeks chart right. Depending solely on your source didn't get it this week.

Paul Dowling from www.worldwideelvis.com added more RARE VINYL especially eleven INCREDIBLY RARE Peruvian singles with picture covers from forty plus years ago!

Elvis is featured on the cover of the September issue of the Finnish music magazine "Rytmi"

2007/08/30 www.elvisnews.com / www.epgold.com

RUMORS

These are just rumors and speculations as to what will be part of the new redevelopment plans for Graceland and the Whitehaven area.

-a pedestrian bridge to be built over Elvis Presley Boulevard. The city and state would fund this. Possibly costing anywhere from $2 million to $4 million. Depending how big and fancy it would be.

There is a definite need for this as it would make crossing Elvis Presley Boulevard much safer for visitors.

-a residential buyout. Bob Sillerman is rumored (by media and sources) to be putting together a financial plan to buy up residential homes and lots around the Graceland mansion and area to expand the property.

Word is that those home owners to get more than what their land is worth. The most targeted area would be the surrounding area that boarder the estate right now with more possible buyout to follow.

-a petting zoo. Why a petting zoo some may ask? Well because of Elvis' strong love for animals.

EPE has been in talks for awhile now with making a home for abandoned animals at Graceland and just recently Priscilla Presley made the remark that they "want to make Graceland more fan friendly and to attract more children".

Elvis once had a pet chimpanzee named Scatter and he also had peacocks running around the grounds of Graceland along with horses. Having a petting zoo as part of the plans makes sense and would attract more children (as Priscilla alluded to) and young adults.

-"A Beale Street where you can take the kids". That's how EPE's CEO Jack Soden described it during Elvis Week to the media.

So what did he mean? Rumors and speculations are that it will have upscale restaurants, night spots, retail and shopping, hotels and resorts along the strip of Elvis Presley Boulevard. Think Branson Missouri.

Here is the artwork and tracklisting for the Viva Las Vegas 3 track Promo CD.

Viva las vegas - Polk salad annie - An american trilogy.

2007/08/30 Joe krein / www.epgold.com

Joe Esposito, author of - amongst others - "Straight Up vol. 1" has made it known to us that there will be no sequel.

Volume 2 has been announced, including the black & white cover, but the script itself is withdrawn.

No specific reason was given, other than Joe's hope to be able to concentrate on other book projects.

Volume 1 is an excellent read, and it's really too bad that this series of books has been short-cut -- making volume 1 a collector's item al by itself.

Few fledgling authors have received a ringing endorsement from a former president. Unlike Ian Klaus, they didn't date Chelsea Clinton.

"In Elvis Is Titanic, Ian Klaus tells the extraordinary story of his time teaching in Iraqi Kurdistan," Bill Clinton says in an e-mail to USA TODAY.

"He shows how much very different people can learn from each other through shared experiences. A fine book by an exceptional young man."

In 2005, Klaus, 28, spent a semester teaching English and American history at Salahaddin University in Arbil. Elvis Is Titanic (Knopf, $24), just published, is an account of his time there.

The former president's Giving: How Each of Us Can Change the World, also from Knopf, is on sale next week.

Klaus and Chelsea met at Oxford University in England, where he, like the former president, was a Rhodes Scholar. They dated from late 2001 to 2005. He dedicated his book "To my mother and Chelsea, for understanding."

"The dedication just reflects an immense gratitude I have for (Chelsea's) friendship," Klaus says, "but also for her being an intellectual and an incredible person to share ideas with."

Elvis Is Titanic is an illuminating look into the hearts and minds of students in this city 300 miles north of Baghdad.

The title comes from a discussion Klaus had with them about Western music. They had never heard of The Beatles or Frank Sinatra, but they knew about Elvis Presley. "Of course," one student said, "we know who Elvis is. Elvis is Titanic (a reference to the hit movie). He is like Titanic of music.

George Andreou, Klaus' editor at Knopf, says he knew of Klaus' connection to the Clintons before reading his book proposal. "I'm an avid reader of the tabloids and the first to admire anyone's amatory résumé, but that didn't figure into the process. Obviously, he has an interesting story to tell, and he's a talented writer."

The book has been well received. Booklist called it "engaging."

Klaus, now working on his doctorate in international history at Harvard, writes briefly about his discomfort when it became public that "Chelsea Clinton's boyfriend" was working in Iraq. "If I had had my way, it never would have come out," he says.

Was it difficult to be in the spotlight during their relationship?

"You're talking about weighing a relationship with a wonderful person vs. the media attention," he says. "It was just an easy choice."

Chelsea, 27, is now in a relationship with childhood friend Marc Mezvinsky. Asked whether he's dating anyone, Klaus says: "I am enjoying my private life being private."

The media group “Just Entertainment” has just released the documentary-DVD ‘From Prince to King’. Packed with trailers, live footage, excerpts from TV-shows and private home movies, this DVD puts the spotlight on Elvis’s musical career.

Note:

This Dvd was original released three years ago with the same title as an Import Dvd.

Here is the cover of the upcoming children's book "Elvis - O Rei Do Rock" by José Jorge Letria which is due for release September 10, 2007.

The book will be presented officially on September 25, 2007 at the Hard Rock Café in Lisbon (Portugal).

The State of Tennessee wants you to take a Tennessee road trip with Elvis and friends.

Place yourself in the passenger seat next to Elvis and customize a message that you can share with friends and family to let them know about visiting Tennessee.

Then, check out all the great places you can stop and see during your next visit.

Warner Home Video recently participated in the largest Elvis Week in history with the release of some of Elvis’s greatest movies and the results have been amazing.

A whole generation is being introduced to the fun of an Elvis movie, while Elvis fans who already knew, have been able to add to their collections.

Some of the new releases are on DVD for the first time, some include new content and added scenes and a some have even been digitally remastered to look and sound even better than when they were first released.

Details on each movie are available here.

Here is a clip from the bonus features on the DVD of Jailhouse Rock.

If you are an Elvis Insider, you can visit the member’s only forum for even more clips.

Special Elvis Movie Assortments Now Available:

All these great movies are available where movies are sold. If you are a Costco or Sam’s Club member, you’ll want to know that, for a limited time, they are each offering a different, exclusive assortment of some of these movies. It’s a great way to add to your Elvis movie collection or they also make great gifts.

Available at Costco:

The Elvis Collection
This deluxe 2-volume, 10-disc set features eight movies in blue suede-like packaging.
Volume one features Jailhouse Rock, This is Elvis, It Happened at the World’s Fair, and Kissin’ Cousins while Volume two features Viva Las Vegas, Elvis That’s the Way It Is, Girl Happy and Live a Little, Love a Little.

Available at Sam’s Club:

The Elvis Gift Set:

Four great Elvis movies are available in a classic black collectible package.
This assortment includes Jailhouse Rock, Viva Las Vegas, Kissin’ Cousins and Girl Happy.

You can find out more about each of these great movie releases and all the extras here or experience some great Elvis movie clips, photos, and more fun on Warner Home Video’s special Elvis movie Web site here

Elvis Presley has notched up his first ever number one on the official UK 'Indie' Chart.

'My Baby Left Me' released on the Memphis Recording Service label and only available through HMV stores and online leaped from #16 to the top of the chart this week.

Note: The latest Midweek position (29th) is as follows:

'Elvis The King' - Top 5

'Hound Dog' - Top 10

On the UK Music DVD Chart Elvis has the following entires in the Top 20:

4 - The 68 Comeback Special

5 - Destination Vegas

10 - Aloha From Hawaii

13 - ETWII

16 - Elvis Lives

18 - Elvis On Elvis.

2007/08/29 www.elvis-express.com - Note: Brian quinn / www.epgold.com

EP GOLD normally does not promotes a Cd from a Elvis impersonator, because we believe there is only one king, but sometimes we do make an exception.

This with Casper Slee cd because of this beautiful own sound mixed into the Elvis songs.

After a hard 10 months off work with all kinds of set backs, finally Casper Slee has the sound he wanted to hear. Casper: ‘”I didn’t want to make again another tribute to Elvis CD.

I want to bring my own feeling into the Elvis songs and with my band we like to create a own sound with longer songs.

Still our new songs has to have a recognizable Elvis sound. All songs are recorded with live band to create a surprisingnew sound except the bonus tracks.

The song it’s still here is done with piano, Bridge with backing track and the house songs-Hound Dog and A little less Conversation- are specially mixed by: Bram Koning and Hans Rusche. They just did a great job with the house mixes, I hope the Elvis fans like the sound too.

I think the message Elvis gave to use is: be yourself and use your own talents, then you will be a star.

I don’t like to imitate Elvis but to keep his name alive! Elvis gives me every day joy and happiness and this is my gift to him.

As was mentioned earlier, Graceland has surprised the fans this year with a special Aloha display case: not one, but two suits are on display at the raquetball building.

The suit on the left is supposed to be the rehearsal-suit, the one on the right was worn during the actual broadcast. However, experts don’t agree.

According to them, the rehearsal suit is now in the hands of the Ed Parker Estate. If that is the case, then the so-called rehearsal suit on display, is made after Aloha. No wonder that there are so many rumours flying around.

The only certainty, is the cape in the middle: that was tossed in the audience, but given back to the estate after the fan who caught it, passed away. And even that cape wasn’t the original one.

Bill Belew had designed an extra large cape for the show, until Elvis tried it on. He soon found out that the cape was too long and too heavy, and he ordered a “regular sized cape”.

The XL-version is now in private hands, after Elvis Presley Enterprises sold it in 1999. But still the question remains: how would Elvis have looked in that full length cape?

One example is this computerized picture. Perhaps, after all, it’s best that he picked the “medium sized cape” after all…

A new Import Cd audience recording has been released.

it is from the opening night in Tempe Arizona march 23 1977. it is a medium recording and it contains:

-2001 Theme
-See See rider
-I Got A Woman/Amen
-Amen/I got a woman
-love me
-my way
-jailhouse rock
-you gave me a mountain
-O sole mio (sherril nielsen)
-it's now or never
-little sister
-teddy bear/don't be cruel
-and i love you so
-how great thou art
-introduction by Elvis
-early morning rain
-what i'd say
-johnny b. goode
-drum solo (ronnie tutt)
-bass solo (jerry scheff
-piano solo (tony brown)
-keyboard solo (bobby odgin)
-hail hail rock 'n' roll
-hurt
-hound dog
-fever
-can't help falling in love
-closing vamp
-Elvis has left the building

2007/08/29 E-Mail / www.epgold.com

Whitehaven - My Kind Of Memphis.

Some years ago when I was publishing a community newspaper for the Whitehaven area, I was often asked what it is about Whitehaven that makes some of us who are long-term residents so fiercely loyal to the community. I have often pointed them to a bumper sticker that the old Whitehaven Community Association used to pass around. It states: "Whitehaven is my kind of Memphis."

Whitehaven is unique in the history of Memphis, not only because of its economic and geographic importance but for the quality, dedication and community involvement of its residents who, despite all odds, are battling great apathy and seem to be making headway.

Before it was annexed by Memphis in 1969, Whitehaven was a self-sustaining and vibrant community.

Today, our community has been misnamed "Blackhaven" and our crown jewel, Graceland, called "Wasteland." Despite such slurs, we take pride in this community that we hold so dear.

For the sake of history, Whitehaven residents proudly claim Graceland and all that it stands for.

Years ago when Elvis Presley bought Graceland, the racial composition of the Whitehaven area was very different. In the years since, white flight became the norm. Many people may dispute this publicly, but the only reason that Graceland is still in Whitehaven is that there is no way for it to be moved anywhere else and still be called Graceland.

Graceland has survived the racial changes in Whitehaven and it continues to grow. Even though Elvis Presley Enterprises does not depend directly on its interactions with area residents for Graceland's growth and survival, no doubt the estate's location does have some residual effects that, if tapped wisely, could benefit the Whitehaven area tremendously.

It is very obvious that most of the more than 600,000 visitors who tour Graceland annually do not venture beyond its confines. In order for the Whitehaven area to benefit from any infusion of capital in and development of Graceland and the adjoining areas, we must devise ways to encourage those visitors to stay and shop in the Whitehaven area.

But there is much more to the Whitehaven area than Memphis' biggest tourist attraction. Memphis International Airport, for example. We proudly claim that, too. And FedEx. UPS. Smith & Nephew. Sofamor Danek. Just to name a few internationally known businesses located in the Whitehaven area.

And of course we claim another Memphis notable who is well known all over the world and has his church right in Whitehaven -- Rev. Al Green.

Yes, we do have issues that are not so peculiar to our neighborhood. Crime. White flight. Apathy. Economic downturn and the resulting effects on property values.

But over the years, prominent Whitehaven residents have taken up the cause of economic development in the area.

Some years ago, Jerome Rubin, then the Memphis City Council member representing the Whitehaven area, joined with the Whitehaven Economic Development Corporation and Graceland in the beautification of Elvis Presley Boulevard. The result is the median and the trees that are on Elvis Presley Boulevard today in front of Graceland.

And while many of the white residents of Whitehaven have moved south to DeSoto County in Mississippi or east to Germantown and beyond, a look at the area will show that others have made quite a commitment to the development of Whitehaven. One example that comes to mind is Chuck Strong, whose family owns Piano's Flowers & Gifts on Elvis Presley Boulevard.

Strong has been a resident of Whitehaven for more than 45 years and is president of the Whitehaven Economic Development Corporation, a body that has been actively involved in the revitalization of the Whitehaven area.

Today, despite all the negative news about the economy, there is a glimmer of hope for an economic resurgence in Whitehaven.

Whitehaven is blessed to have Southland Mall, the first enclosed mall in Memphis. While other malls are struggling or shutting down, Southland has more than 60 stores that cater to shoppers of varying ethnic backgrounds.

And there's more. Did you know that a satellite radio station that is received all over the world broadcasts Memphis music from Graceland in Whitehaven?

A Wal-Mart store is in place in the community to bring all its collateral economic benefits.

There is talk of a coordinated development and revitalization plan for the Brooks Road corridor.

And there is the new "aerotropolis" concept being considered to revitalize the area around the airport and give arriving visitors a first impression of Memphis that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

All these projects, and more, show that we are on a resurgence that hopefully will make Whitehaven a better and more vibrant place to live and work.

Elvis is the biggest selling artist this week in HMV, the UK's biggest music store has Elvis at #1 and #2 on this week's singles chart.

The King holds no less than 4 entries on this weeks HMV music chart with these:

#1 – Blue Suede Shoes
#2 – My Baby Left Me
#6 – Suspicious Minds
#14 – Heartbreak Hotel (with box)

Meanwhile, on the official UK charts, Brian Quinn, reports that the midweek sales chart show that ‘Hound Dog’ is currently at #5 and ‘Blue Suede Shoes’, ‘My Baby Left Me’ and ‘Suspicious Minds’ have all dropped out of the Top 40.

The debate over recorded copyright extension has reached the UK Singles Chart for the first time as a public domain (any recording over 50 years old) Elvis track 'Blue Suede Shoes' has this week charted in the Top 20.

In the UK any recording over 50 years old becomes public domain property and can be issued by anyone. In the U.S.A. it is 95 years.

The copyright period for song writers and their families covers their entire lives plus 70 years, while performers and producers benefit from a 50 year copyright period starting from the recording date.

Diane Sawyer, Larry King, James L. Brooks and Andrew Dice Clay Are Graceland's Latest Celebrity Visitors.

Diane Sawyer visited Graceland on August 15th to tape an interview with Lisa Marie Presley for the August 16th edition of Good Morning America.

Larry King hosted an entire edition of Larry King Live inside Graceland on August 15th with special guest Priscilla Presley.

Film and television producer James L. Brooks toured Graceland on August 23rd.

Actor/comedian Andrew Dice Clay, who visited once before, toured Graceland on August 24th.

There have been many misconceptions about the reported expansion plans for Graceland to be turned into an amusement park or theme park.

The truth to that matter is that there are no plans at all for any amusement park or theme park and there will not be any rides as part of this project.

Unfortunately the media has taken Robert Sillerman's quotes out of context and used the term "on par with Disney" as their interpretation of him meaning of turning Graceland into a theme park like Disney.

The reference Sillerman used was more to do with the fact that Disney is well known for their breathtaking landscaping and state of the art facilities. This is what Bob Sillerman wants to bring to Graceland. Not a roller coaster.

Below is a news video from WOAI in San Antonio, TX.
It gives a better understanding as to what is being planned. Think "Elvis World".

It also talks about the expansion plans and how Graceland wants to move into a new direction for the future.

Good news for fans around the world.......The duet of 'In The Ghetto' by Elvis Presley and his daughter, Lisa Marie is now available for download from iTunes.

In the UK the price of the song is just 79p, while the video is priced £1.89

Get along to iTunes search for 'In The Ghetto' and buy the duet today.

New Compilation CD - E L V I S BEST HITS IN JAPAN featuring 29 Japanese Fans' Favorites:

Heartbreak Hotel / I Want You, I Need You, I Love You / Hound Dog / Don't Be Cruel / Love Me Tender / Jailhouse Rock / Wear My Ring Around Your Neck / It's Now Or Never / Are You Lonesome Tonight / GI Blues / Surrender / Crying In The Chapel / Blue Hawaii / Can't Help Falling In Love / Follow That Dream / Suspicion / Return To Sender / Devil In Disguise / Viva Las Vegas / All That I Am / I've Lost You / Bridge Over Troubled Water / You Don't Have To Say You Love Me / I Really Don't Want To Know / An American Trilogy / Always On My Mind / My Boy / My Way / Blue Christmas Early Pressings includes: A Bonus NOT FOR SALE Promo Disc featuring 3 Tracks: A Little Less Conversation (JXL Radio Edit remix) / Rubberneckin' Paul Oakenfold Remix / The Elvis Medley

2007/08/28 HT Long / www.epgold.com

2007/08/27 Bud Glass - The King's Ransom Elvis Exhibition - Andylon Lensen / www.epgold.com

Here is an -e-mail from Ed Enoch on the future of The Stamps to Hubert Vindevogel from the Off.Belgium Fanclub "The United Elvis Presley Society" .

Hello Hubert:

It's nice to hear from you. Please allow me to explain regarding the Stamps.

In August 2003, I applied for the official trademark of the Stamps Quartet name with the United States Patent and Trademark office in Washington, DC.

I was granted the official trademark of the Stamps Quartet and I became the owner of the Stamps Quartet in Aug. 2003.

The billing for the concert events in Memphis was supposed to be, "The Former Members of The Stamps".
The "former members" were Ed Hill - Bill Baize - Donnie Sumner - Larry Strickland.
Not any of these guys sing full-time anymore.

Ed Hill hasn't sang with this quartet (The Stamps) since March 2004 when he had a 4th stroke. Ed Hill was recovering from triple by-pass-surgery when he had another stroke. I continued paying Ed Hill for 3 months afterwards - as though he was still singing in this group.

I met with Ed for lunch and asked how he was feeling. He could hardly talk. I asked if he thought he could still sing, and he said he had lost his short term memory and would have to have the words written out and he couldn't remember the tunes - his memory was here and there.

I explained to Ed Hill (he had just turned 70 years) and I thought it would be best for him if he got off the road and spent time with his family. I explained that he had a hard time when we went overseas six months before and he had to be wheeled around in a wheelchair.

I explained that we were going back overseas and I knew that he wouldn't be able to make another tour over there. I explained that I didn't want to take him back overseas and something happen to him and I would have
to shipped him back home. He agreed.

The best to you... Ed Enoch.

The Slovenian weekly newspaper "Nedeljski dnevnik" will release four Elvis documentary DVDs.

The first release includes a double DVD and a box for the whole upcoming collection.

Approved By EPE Is The "'68 Comeback" McFarlane Toy Statue.

That is if you read the box on the "Official" EPE approved product from McFarlane Toys.

This 30th anniversary reissue of the 68 special figure clearly states in no more that TWO places on the box that ELVIS was born on 1/8/38 and died 8/16/77.

The cd is sold in newspapers stores only and comes stuck on an attractive cardboard.

BBC Radio One have shown the world their knowledge of music while announcing this weeks UK Top 40.

"A new entry this week at number 19 is Elvis Presley and 'My Baby Left Me" - Cue song:Well since my baby left me, I found a new place to dwellIt's down at the end of lonely street at HEARTBREAK HOTEL

YES, those music specialists at Radio One "Screwed up" and played the wrong song, something that could have serious repercussions as HMV and the Memphis Recording Service could lose retail sales as a result of this blunder?

And if that was not enough, BBC officials list EPE's site as the source of the 'My Baby Left Me' release when it should be www.memphisrecordingservice.com

[NEW] # 13 - 'Blue Suede Shoes'
[NEW] # 19 - 'My Baby Left Me'
# 26 - 'Suspicious Minds'

Will be very interesting to see the difference in sales for 'Elvis The King' and the No.2 album by Newton Faulkner. The major supermarkets had sold out of the Elvis album by Thursday/Friday but there were plenty of the Faulkner one.
I suspect the Saturday sales clinched it for Faulkner.

Can you believe it!!! When the Radio 1 DJ announced 'My Baby Left Me' he
played 'Heartbreak Hotel' by mistake. I suspect he has never heard MBLM before!!! You just can't get the staff!!!

Rock 'N Roll Legend Carl Perkins' Much Anticipated Story To Come To The Big Screen.

Fastlane Entertainment will produce a motion picture based on the life story of Rock 'n Roll's Carl Perkins. The legendary singer and songwriter of Blue Suede Shoes, Matchbox, Everybody's Trying To Be My Baby and Honey Don't, is considered one of the founding fathers of Rock 'n Roll along with his fellow Sun Records musicians Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis. Paul McCartney is on board to support project.

Hollywood, CA (Billboard Publicity Wire/PRWEB ) August 27, 2007 -- Fastlane Entertainment, LLC announces that it has acquired the exclusive rights and will produce a motion picture based on the life story of Rock 'n Roll's very own Carl Perkins. Legendary singer and songwriter of Blue Suede Shoes, Matchbox, Everybody's Trying To Be My Baby and Honey Don't, Carl is considered one of the founding fathers of Rock 'n Roll along with his fellow Sun Records musicians Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis.

Paul McCartney said it best, "If there were no Carl Perkins, there would be no Beatles." The Beatles were huge fans and demonstrated it by recording more Perkins' songs than any other influential artists. Nancy Jefferies of McCartney's company MPL, who controls the publishing to the Perkins' catalog commented, "Carl Perkins stood at the crossroads of music history. Through his remarkable creative output, he became one of the innovators who gave life to the cultural revolution of Rock 'n Roll." McCartney is lending support on the project alongside other notable musicians.

Carl's daughter and song writing partner Debbie "DJ" Perkins said, "We are thrilled to have Fastlane Entertainment on board along with support from the many famous musicians who were influenced by my father's music. I wrote a screenplay with Rick Korn and Randy Moore, called "The Thinkin'Place," based on what my father told me a few days prior to his death. Our intention, with telling my dad's story, is to create a film that is not just another Rock and Roll biographical picture but rather a movie that the average person can relate to and walk out feeling good about his/her own life journey. My father used to call his music, 'feel good music', so it is only appropriate to make a 'feel good' movie in his honor."

Fastlane Producer Frank Miniaci said, "We are honored to have the Perkins family along with legendary musicians and longtime family friends working closely with us to achieve an authentic and powerful story and film which has yet to be told…the life and times of Carl Perkins." Producer Chesley Heymsfield adds, "Aside from being a well known and influential singer and songwriter, Carl has an amazing life story of tragedy and triumph that will translate very well into a compelling film."

Based in Santa Monica, California, Fastlane Entertainment, LLC is a full-service production and media company specializing in film, television and music content development. Company founder Frank Miniaci and partner Billy Burke are teaming with producer Chesley Heymsfield to produce the Carl Perkins' Story. Fastlane's legal counsel is Beverly Hills based Bezdek Law.

2007/08/27 Fastlane Entertainment / www.epgold.com

When she goes into the archive building at 12mins 53seconds into the clip they show her a scarf with a message written on it to her from her father.

She says she has never seen it before and takes it with her................ STRANGE?????

Does she not own, or has she not seen or read, or did she not approve the book ELVIS BY THE PRESLEYS?

It's in there folks (page 173) and that was published a couple of years ago now.

I find THAT a little disturbing........... or is it just me?

Download the clip here

Traffic around Graceland has thinned over the last week with the departure of Elvis Week's huge group of 30th anniversary pilgrims. But it's still a busy place, down Elvis Presley Boulevard, past the used car lots, the motels, the fast food joints and gas stations.

And there is a sense of anticipation over the plans being made behind the mansion's graffiti-covered walls, where visitors scribble homage to America's greatest pop culture icon.

A $250 million expansion of the tourist attraction surrounding Elvis Presley's Whitehaven home could perform wonders in a section of Memphis that in some ways has fallen behind other areas of the city.

Especially its image.

Whitehaven's negative connotation is not deserved. Those are ill-informed travel agents who tell tourists to stay elsewhere when they're coming to Graceland. Its crime rate is invariably exaggerated. But it's easily dismissed in a city that can offer an exciting Downtown entertainment district, boutique shopping and fine dining out east.

"Whitehaven was pretty much ignored for a long time by the city," notes Cheryl Forbes, executive director of the Whitehaven Economic Development Corp. "When they annexed certain areas, the infrastructure was ignored. Things happened in Whitehaven that were unplanned, without any thought or vision of what do we want this area to be. The correction takes time and a lot of effort by the corporations, by our organization and others. But it takes time to do."

"I've been in business here 26 years," said Chuck Strong, owner of Piano's Flowers & Gifts Inc., on Elvis Presley Boulevard. "People in Whitehaven have a perception of what Whitehaven is, and people elsewhere have another perception."

Still, Strong argues, Whitehaven could use -- and could support -- more upscale shopping, dining and hotels and perhaps even an entertainment district that could piggyback on the Elvis experience. The plan to expand and rejuvenate Graceland has raised hopes in Whitehaven for those kinds of developments.

Robert Lipscomb, the city's chief financial officer, sees the project as a "great thing" for the entire Whitehaven area that could be tied in with a plan to improve the Brooks Road corridor, raise the area's profile and improve its quality of life.

Which isn't bad, especially in some of the middle-class neighborhoods on either side of Elvis Presley, with their large, tree-shaded lots, carefully tended lawns and ranch-style houses, built in the '60s and '70s and preserved with obvious care.

Zip code 38116, which covers the area traditionally known as Whitehaven, has a number of low-key but pleasant neighborhoods. Once a predominately white suburban enclave, 38116 is now almost 91 percent African-American, according to City-Data.com, with a median income of $33,916, compared to $33,244 for Memphis as a whole.

The place might have been a white haven for awhile, but that's not how it got its name. Col. Francis M. White was a land owner and president of what was once a major railroad, where White's Station morphed into White Haven and eventually Whitehaven.

The 28-square-mile Whitehaven annexation area, which included not only Graceland but Southland Mall and Whitehaven Country Club, became part of Memphis in 1969 at the end of a protracted battle with the city that initiated its dramatic demographic conversion.

The area covered by the Whitehaven Economic Development Corp., which also includes Zip Code 38109 to the west, has been declining in population, but counting its successes, as well -- rejuvenated, redirected economic engines like the 1960s-era Bellbrook Industrial Park, one of the city's largest, most modern library branches and the forced closing of one of its worst eyesores and public nuisances -- the infamous Black Tail Shake Joint, one of several adult-oriented businesses on Brooks Road.

The area is home to some of the key players in the biomedical industry, a key to Memphis' future economic vitality. The retail sector that seemed to be abandoning Whitehaven, driving residents into Mississippi for daily shopping needs, is gradually coming back.

Former U.S. representative Harold Ford Sr. and other major African-American leaders have made their home in Whitehaven. DJ Paul of Three 6 Mafia grew up there. It's home to Methodist Hospital South, Nonconnah Corporate Park and Southland Mall, one of the region's oldest enclosed shopping centers.

On its eastern edge is Memphis International Airport, so Whitehaven would inevitably have to be included in the overall effort to position Memphis as an important world "aerotropolis." A new Airport Area Development Corp., led by officials from some of Whitehaven's leading companies, is spearheading that effort, and the city is funding a master plan for the corridor along Brooks Road that is aimed at eventually driving out the embarrassments.

So could Whitehaven be in store for an infusion of new life, new blood and -- this is the best part -- new money?

A plan to revitalize the area immediately surrounding Graceland, crafted by Robert F.X. Sillerman, chief executive of Graceland parent corporation CKX Inc., could be the spark that ignites a golden age for the former suburb. Then again, it might just widen the island of economic excitement that the tourist attraction occupies in the center of a sea of relative tranquility.

It's not clear yet how much the public will be asked to help with the effort.

The Tennessee legislature approved a bill last spring that authorizes the creation of a tourism development zone (TDZ) there, which will allow some local taxes collected within its boundaries to be used to help finance the project.

Executives of Graceland have announced plans for $250 million in improvements, including at least one new hotel, new attractions, new shops and a new and much larger visitors' center -- all within a five-year time span. The city will pitch in with some infrastructure improvements. Tax abatements and other incentives also could kick in -- an investment that would pay off if the effort to double Graceland's total of 600,000 annual visitors meets with success.

Graceland is investing heavily in the idea with $13 million in property acquisitions over the last two years that have expanded its campus to more than 100 acres, enough for a Disneyland-like experience -- or perhaps something more along the lines of Branson, Mo.

"I look for a lot of synergy to take place," said Myron Lowery, the representative of a City Council superdistrict that takes in Whitehaven and surrounding areas. "It will be between the future development of Graceland and other retail outlets, who will come in realizing that not only local residents are going to be participating in this but tourists as well. I think the future for Whitehaven is bright."

Michael Kelley is an editorial writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact him at 529-2785

One summer morning in 1961, an 11-year old Tom Petty sat on pine straw in his front yard, wondering how he was going to spend his day. By the end of the afternoon, he knew how he would spend his life.

The difference that afternoon made added another notch to rock 'n' roll history, and a tantalizing addition to Florida lore. For by the end of the day, the young Petty would encounter none other than Elvis Presley, the "The King of Rock 'n' Roll" who died 30 years ago on Thursday. And by that evening, the Gainesville, Fla., youngster would be forever fascinated — and hooked — on rock 'n' roll.

"I caught the fever that day and I never got rid of it," Petty later said in Paul Zollo's book, "Conversations With Tom Petty."

"That's what kicked off my love of music. And I'd never thought much about rock 'n' roll until that moment."

As young Tom sat under a pine tree in his Gainesville home's front yard, Presley was filming, appropriately enough, a movie called "Follow That Dream," with location shooting in Ocala, Tampa, Crystal River and other locations.

Petty's uncle, Earl Jernigan, owned a local film developing business and worked on location shoots whenever filmmakers came to the area. So when Jernigan's wife, Tom's Aunt Ellen, rolled into the driveway and asked her nephew if he'd like to "go and see Elvis Presley," he was more than game, he was licking his chops at what would in a few hours become the adventure of his young life.

"I remember this vividly," said Petty, who at that point primarily knew Elvis as a character who had "caused some controversy," likely due to those swiveling hips when Tom had been about 5 or 6 years old.
"He was known to me as a fellow who wiggled," Petty recalled. "And I did a little impression with a broom of wiggling like Elvis."

After driving 30 miles, Aunt Ellen, Tom and two of his cousins pulled up near the film set in downtown Ocala, where Elvis was to shoot a scene of him pulling up in a car and entering a bank. "There was a huge crowd; the biggest crowd I've ever seen in the streets of Ocala," Petty said.

"And then I swear to God, a line of white Cadillacs pulled in. All white. I'd never seen anything like that," he remembered. "And I was standing up on a box to see over everyone's head, because a big roar started up when the cars pulled in."

Guys in mohair suits and pompadours began bounding out of each car — to Petty's startled cry of "Is that ELVIS?" every time.

When the real Elvis finally appeared, Petty knew.

Immediately. "He stepped out radiant as an angel," Petty said. "He seemed to glow and walk above the ground. It was like nothing I'd ever seen in my life. At 50 yards, we were stunned by what this guy looked like. And he came walking right towards us."

Elvis' hair was so impossibly black that it glistened a deep blue when the sunlight hit it. And that's when Elvis walked directly over to Uncle Earl, Aunt Ellen and little Tom Petty.

"We were speechless," Petty said. As Uncle Earl introduced Elvis to his nieces and nephews, the King of Rock 'n' Roll smiled and nodded to each open-mouthed youngster.

"I don't know what he said, because I was just too dumbfounded," Petty said. "And he went into his trailer."

Then, young Tom got "really excited" as hundreds of girls pressed against the chain-link fence. Many brandished album covers and photos, which one of Elvis' "Memphis mafia guys," as Petty described it, dutifully took into the trailer and returned, bearing authentic Elvis autographs.

Petty and his cousins stayed the rest of the day and watched as the crew spent hours filming that one scene of Elvis getting out of the car and entering the bank. And every time Elvis' car rolled up, the crowd went "insane," breaking through the barricades and charging toward the star.

"And I thought at the time, 'That is one hell of a job to have. That's a great gig — Elvis Presley,' " Petty said.

Young Tom began collecting anything he could find on Elvis. He stayed inside the house — constantly — and did nothing but listen to Elvis music. "My dad was concerned that I didn't go outside, that I just played these records all day."

Three years later, young Tom became even more enamored of rock 'n' roll when The Beatles arrived on American shores, appearing on "The Ed Sullivan Show" and performing in live concerts.

But Tom Petty's fascination with music began with Elvis Presley in Ocala. And though he never saw Elvis again, the flames from that fire never waned or went out.

"I learned all of those early Elvis songs," Petty said in Zollo's book. "And having that kind of background in rock 'n' roll, of where it had come from, has served me to this day.

"It became an invaluable thing to have. So for that, I thank him."

2007/08/26 Bud Glass - The King's Ransom Elvis Exhibition - Andylon Lensen / www.epgold.com

Elvis Presley's Daughter Finds Dad's Song Use In Viagra Ad 'Revolting' .

Washington, Aug 26 (ANI): Elvis Presley's daughter, singer-songwriter Lisa Marie, is outraged to see her dad's song 'Viva Las Vegas' used in a Viagra commercial.

The 39-year-old insisted that she found the Pfizer Inc.'s new advert 'revolting' but could not do anything to stop it for she does not own the song's rights.

"I find it revolting. Some songs we have no control over and I know we didn't license that one," Contactmusic quoted her, as saying.

The advert set in a folksy bar off a dusty highway shows a group of men in their 40s and 50s singing 'Viva Viagra' to the tune of Presley's 1964 song.

The erectile dysfunction commercial which is all about boys bonding with other boys over the good times this medication has brought them, was premiered during NBC's 'Nightly News', and will air during programs that have a 90 percent adult audience.

For Those Confused About The Graceland Expansion - Here It Is.

I have been reading some lame excuses and just flat out misunderstood comments or should I say complaints coming from EP fans regarding the soon to be Graceland expansion plans. So for those who are confused and don't understand exactly what is being planned and why it is important for these plans, I have broken it all down for you step by step to let you see what is and isn't being planned so that you will have a better understanding to it all.

1)There will NOT be any amusement park or rides at Graceland or part of the new expansion plans. This is a given. Priscilla mentioned this at the Insiders Meeting.

2)The plans call for a complete redevelopment plan that is both privately and publicly funded to enhance the visitation of the Graceland estate and bring in more tourism yearly which will generate more money into the struggling Memphis economy. In order to doing that, they MUST upgrade the facilities, revamp the area, and have city and state support or the project would suffer financially in the long run. (think an entire community remodeled). The total cost of this massive project is $250 as of now, but it could exceed that when the final plans are announced.

3)The plans call for a new state of the art visitor's center to replace the current run down squashed together outdated former strip mall called the Graceland Plaza. The current one will be torn down once the new one is complete.

4)The new visitor's center will be built on the same side of street as the mansion, to the left of the mansion making it more easier for access to the tours without using shuttle buses. This was Graceland's original plan but the land wasn't available back then.

5)The plans for the new visitor's center are to go more modernized to attract new fans and still cater to the older fans at the same time.

6)Among those plans are a hi-tech museum (for the computer cyber generation lovers) to display interactive exhibits and for the visitors to learn and discover EP and his legacy.

7)The facility will feature much better and bigger attractions than currently displayed at the Plaza using modern day technology.

8)I expect there to be some type of hi-tech theater of some sort (if FXS is wanting interactive attractions). Maybe not exactly an Imax, but something similar that would showcase the live performer that was E-L-V-I-S in a unique fashion.

9)Expect some type of EP themed restaurant as part of the plans, similar to the old Elvis Presley's Memphis spot on Beale Street.

10)The plans call for a new Hotel to replace the current Heartbreak Hotel. The new hotel will be 500 rooms and a conventional hotel that is capable of holding conventions and events. This will only up the tourism and business for EPE and CKX.

11)The new hotel will have a top tier company to buy the naming rights (such as Marriott or Ritz Carlton) that are a resort style hotel chains.

12)The plans call for the city and state to get involved financially to upgrade the businesses that are in that area and to buy up land to sell to high investors.

13)Expect breathtaking landscaping like that of Disney and Epcot in Orlando with beauitful array of flowers and flower beds and possibly water fountains. The mind can't even imagine what a beautiful attraction this is going to be. I will bet my house that it will not in any way degrade or disrespect EP or his memory and will only brighten the image and the man's legacy he left behind.

RUMORS: Right now these are just rumors and speculation as to what else is being planned.

*a pedestrian bridge to be built over Elvis Presley Boulevard. The city and state would fund this. Possibly costing anywhere from $2 million to $4 million. Depending how big and fancy it would be.

*a residential buyout. Bob Sillerman is rumored (by media and sources) to be putting together a financial plan to buy up residential homes and lots around the Graceland mansion and area to expand the property. Expect those owners to get more than what their land is worth. Rumors are that this could be a buy up of over 100-200 homes in the Graceland area.

*a petting zoo. Why a petting zoo some may ask? Well because of EP's strong love for animals. EPE has been in talks for awhile now with making a home for abandoned animals at Graceland and this would fit into the rumored plans for a small zoo to attract younger fans. EP had a chimpanzee named Scatter and he had peacocks running the grounds along with horses. Having a petting zoo as part of the plans makes sense and would attract more children (as Priscilla alluded to) and young adults. There should be some type of theme there with it. Maybe "Animal Instinct"?

*a theme park. This has been mentioned by the media mainly. But apparently it is not part of the plans. However it is possible that the "theme park" rumor could have some life to it. Recently Bob Sillerman and Simon Fuller went into partnership and bought out a company to go private for $1.3 billion and in that contract was an agreement that allows Bob Sillerman to use EP's name for marketing theme parks and amusement parks. But not at Graceland and it can't be degrading in any way. Now there are big plans and the ground breaking has already began for a new MGM Theme Park in Southaven, MS which is only 6.2 miles from Graceland. It's going to be a 200 acre park like the one in Orlando (Disney MGM). Could this be where the rumor takes life? Could there be plans for the first ever Elvis World Theme Park down the road from Graceland and near the new MGM Park as part of the new entertainment district? It all makes sense if it is. And this could be a great way in taking EP and preserving his name for generations to come. As long as it's not on the Graceland grounds, then I see nothing wrong with that at all and would only add to the tourism at Graceland.