Copyright LindaHoodSigmonTruth.com May, 2009 – 2014 All rights reserved.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2014
My brother-in-law gave me a birthday gift over the weekend in the form of a very old People Magazine which featured Elvis and the one year anniversary of his “death” on the cover. There was one portion of the article which caught my eye.
Below is the cover and also the excerpt from the article which pertains to Ginger Alden. Because I have heard that Ms. Alden has said that Uncle Vester, Nancy Rooks, Dick Grob and Dr. Nick have all lied about her, I felt that this article certainly backs up the statements which I shared on my Current News Page recently. Please take note that, one full year after Elvis “died”, Ms. Alden had NOT been back inside Graceland since the funeral. This bears out what Nancy Rooks wrote in her book. Below is this excerpt from Ms. Rooks book once more:
Below is the cover of the August 1978 People Magazine.
Below is the excerpt from this magazine article. You will note that I have underlined in red the particular sentence to which I have referred.
Seems to me, she was still pretty naive if she thought she could appear in a movie, as described in this article, and not know that it was deliberately being done to cash in on the aftermath of Elvis’ “death“…and if she thought she could convince anyone else that the similarities were simply “coincidental“.
This movie was filmed here in North Carolina not too far from the county where I grew up and in which my husband I were living at that time in the 1970s. The man who created this movie…Earl Owensby, was himself an Elvis Impersonator, and starred in this movie himself playing the part of the “NOT Elvis” Rock ‘n Roll star.
Below are several excerpts from Internet articles regarding Earl Owensby and the movie in which Ginger had her first acting role.
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/1985-10-20/entertainment/8503110667_1_eo-movie-six-sound-stages
“Owensby is to Hollywood what a Taiwan dress manufacturer is to a Parisian coutourier: he makes low-budget knockoffs of genre hits and other box-office smashes. You name it, he`s done it: Southern revenge dramas, crash-`em-up car flicks, horror, cheapo James Bond, 3-D movies of various stripes, even a film made to cash in on Elvis Presley`s death (starring E.O.).“
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0654494/bio
“Was friends with Elvis Presley . Even named his son, actor Elvis Owensby after the late “King of Rock & Roll.”
Made a strange (albeit highly fictionalized) ‘Elvis tribute film’ called _Living Legend: The King of Rock & Roll (1980), less than three years after Presley’s death. It co-starred actress Ginger Alden , who was Elvis’ fiancee at the time of his death.
Studio in North Carolina. Small town.”
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2014
I expect many of you have seen the headlines in recent days regarding the fact that Andy Kaufman’s best friend has announced that Andy faked his death 30 years ago. He has also written a book about this fact. He explains that Andy discussed with him in detail his plans to fake his death. One of his old friends (not sure if it was this same friend) said in an interview that he told Andy to not ever discuss it with him again. That if he was going to do it, just do it, don’t ever talk to me about it again. He also said that Andy promised to return after 30 years and that the 30 years expired this past May. I have seen a very convincing video on YouTube some time ago which was purportedly Andy Kaufman in recent years.
The reason I am bringing this topic up on my site is because it is very well known that Andy Kaufman was a HUGE Elvis fan and did an imitation of Elvis which has been seen on some top TV shows, etc. back in the day. My point is that Andy imitated Elvis and it is most probable that Andy choosing to fake his death was patterned after the fact that Elvis faked his death. Take note also that Andy was doing his Elvis act BEFORE Elvis “died“.
Take a look…
Andy Kaufman Does Elvis Presley
PeterRabbit59 Uploaded on May 3, 2010
From Johnny Cash 1979 Christmas Special – Other Guests were Andy Kaufman
http://youtu.be/ppttxQoc74Q
httpv://youtu.be/ppttxQoc74Q
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Andy Kaufman’s Elvis Presley Impression on Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show, 1977
Johnny Carson 
Published on Dec 3, 2013
Andy Kaufman does his Elvis Presley impersonation and sings Elvis’ hits “Love Me” and “Blue Suede Shoes”. This was Andy Kaufman’s first appearance on the “Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” in 1977.
http://youtu.be/9kpBzUQHYtM
httpv://youtu.be/9kpBzUQHYtM
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Andy Kaufman becomes Elvis
jattamaria Uploaded on Mar 31, 2010
re-upload.
Andy becomes Elvis at” The Andy Kaufman Special” (also known as “Andy’s Funhouse”). it was shot in July 1977. (before Elvis died).
Andy was the first person who did Elvis.
http://youtu.be/sHKUcXNq_xk
httpv://youtu.be/sHKUcXNq_xk
Below are two of the YouTube videos regarding the theory that Andy Kaufman is still alive.
Andy Kaufman believers say he may be living in Albuquerque
KRQEPublished on May 21, 2013
Tina Jensen reports.
http://youtu.be/SJBDt9av0fo
httpv://youtu.be/SJBDt9av0fo
Andy Kaufman still alive!
andystillalive’s channel Uploaded on Aug 28, 2009
Look at this video. You see the young Andy Kaufman first and than the old Andy today! He is a guru now.
Andy was the kind of guy who, when he came up with an idea in the middle of the night, he had to talk with you right then. So we met at Canters, and I said, So what is it? He said, This is the greatest idea ever! This is the greatest put-on of all time! Now, at this time, Elvis had died, and there were already rumors going around about did Elvis fake his death, did Jim Morrison fake his death. Andy said, You know, if some celebrity really did this, do you know how big it would be? How legendary it would be?
http://youtu.be/sqtF4MWmkDA
httpv://youtu.be/sqtF4MWmkDA
Finally, here is an excerpt from just one of the many recent news items regarding Andy’s friend stating that Andy did fake his death. The full article may be seen at the New York Post link:
http://nypost.com/2014/09/28/why-andy-kaufman-might-still-be-alive
Friend: Andy Kaufman is still alive
September 28, 2014 | 9:28am
Could faking his own death be Andy Kaufman’s biggest joke yet?
In 1980, legendary comedian Andy Kaufman and his writing partner, Bob Zmuda, wrote a script for a film called “The Tony Clifton Story,” based on a character of Kaufman’s.
On Page 124, there is a block of dialogue intended for Kaufman to speak as himself, informing viewers of Clifton’s demise. Among the lines:
“On June 12, 1980 . . . Tony Clifton, at the age of 45, died of cancer at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Hollywood, California.”
Four years later, at age 35, Kaufman himself would, supposedly, die — from cancer at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Hollywood, California.
It was no coincidence, Zmuda reveals in a new book, “Andy Kaufman: The Truth, Finally” (BenBella Books), written with Lynne Margulies, Kaufman’s girlfriend.
Not only does he firmly believe that Kaufman faked his death, but that Kaufman will be emerging to reveal his great prank to the world very soon.
Continued at…
http://nypost.com/2014/09/28/why-andy-kaufman-might-still-be-alive
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2014
I want to display the following announcement for all my visitors and ask that you please help spread the word about this upcoming new song with all the Elvis fans and fan clubs with whom you are in contact.
I have heard Tedd’s demo of this song and the demo is fantastic just as it is. I know the finished song will be such a beautiful tribute to Elvis on the 80th Anniversary of his birth in January, 2015.
Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Mary Jane Baltrus, I am a BMI gospel songwriter and BIG Elvis fan! I was BLESSED to see him 8 times in concert thru the years, starting with November 6,1971 and ending with October 23, 1976. I had tickets to see him in Syracuse on August 20, 1977, but fate stepped in…
I am writing you today to share with you that Nashville singer/songwriter recording artist Tedd Graves will be releasing the new Elvis Tribute song, “A Man So Loved” in January 2015, on http://www.amazon.com to coincide with the 80th Anniversary of Elvis’ birth. “A Man So Loved” was written by Tedd with myself. A portion of the profits from “A Man So Loved” will be donated to The Elvis Presley Memorial Trauma Center in Memphis, Tennessee. The song is published through Lovingood Publishing/BMI.
Radio stations, Elvis themed websites and fan clubs will be contacted in the hope that they will stand with us in pushing the new release. We sincerely pray that we can count on your support to get each and every Elvis fan aware of the song, now and when the song will be available for downloads on http://www.amazon.com Tedd wants to do this right, ideally with backup, both musically and vocally, of those folks who worked alongside Elvis through the years. He is now in talks with those major names.
Music insiders are saying that “A Man So Loved” will be the next “The King Is Gone”, “Black Velvet” or “Walking In Memphis”. “A major contribution to Elvis’ ongoing memory…a beautiful representation from the fan’s point of view, showing the range of Tedd’s remarkable voice, while giving fans pause to stop to remember and celebrate Elvis, the man, the myth, the legend.” When we have a master of the song, we will be glad to share a clip of the song with you. If you might be interested in helping Tedd with this project, in either sharing info of the song on your website, now and when the song becomes available, or for an interview with Tedd, his contact info is below…
Contact info for Tedd is:
teddgravesmusic@comcast.net
If I can be of any help, my contact info is;
Mary Jane Baltrus…
georgethehelper@yahoo.com
I thank you for any and all interest and consideration to this project. I must say, the song has guitar riffs and the proverbial “hook” or catch phrase, that will not get out of your head…
God Bless,
Mary Jane
FOOTNOTE: I WILL NOT BE SENDING JESSE THE ABOVE ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT THE SONG AS IT IS GOING TO BE A SURPRISE BIRTHDAY GIFT TO HIM.
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SENT TO JESSE THROUGH THIS POINT ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2014
(with above exception of the song announcement)
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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2014
My good friend. Wanda June Hill, wrote an Email to me and gave me permission to share it on my site. Wanda was so very blessed to know Elvis, the real man, for 15 years. She is such a treasure trove of facts and truth about Elvis, the man, not merely the superstar image. I loved reading Wand’s words and I believe that all of my visitors will also.
E was always concerned about the fact that he was not perfect, not a perfect human male and had faults and flaws hidden, just as all people, men and women do…(his words) And he lamented the fact that so many tended to worship him, the man and didn’t see that they and he were one and the same…all just fellow human beings, male and female as God made us. He said he felt like hiding sometimes because so many were placing him so high up above regular folks. He came from bare roots he said, and just like everyone else had done…we come from our parents but our spirits come from God the Almighty and nothing we do is done without His fingerprints all over us. That we sin is His gift…of free will; and He only hopes we don’t dwell in sin forever. He gives us the choice of our life, and of our death. We need to believe in trying to have a good life, one worthy of the right to be here, living on God’s earth and do our best for our fellow man and woman while we are here…because that is our purpose…to further mankind and womankind in the ways of God’s love and guidance. If we fail, we have to try again he believed. We got second chances in some other form, male or female. Most folks make it the second time around, few are so stupid they fail again. He didn’t want to be one of them, and so he tried to live accordingly and asked God every day to help him be the person He intended him to be this time around.
This was a guy who prayed a lot, because he said, “I sin a lot; sometimes I don’t know it ’til later on when I think back over my day…that’s why God gives us knees…so we can get on them and ask forgiveness for our sins. God don’t ever condemn anyone who is on their knees askin’ for his help, He blesses them. Remember that!“
He also said that if we think we “will be laughed at for prayin’ then get behind a door, in a closet -under the bed…anywhere you feel is private and you don’t have to cry and holler at God…He hears a whisper comin’ from a pain racked heart…remember that! “
Suzie and he had talked and she kept some notes on the conversations when he was doing as she put it, “his preachin’ an’ teachin‘” but she always said, with a smile, “He is so special, he doesn’t realize he is bringing the word of God to his friends and anyone he meets and spends any time with. It’s embedded in his heart and soul…he’s totally unaware of that gift.“
And so right she was…and still is…he didn’t see his gift…and that is why he reached so many with it…it still is out there, as he’d put it, “in the ethers” and someone somewhere is still hearing those comments as he spoke/speaks them. It’s amazing to think about…somewhere on this earth there are people who are being taught by something this man said, years ago…or yesterday…
One guy, special and so appealing to so many, and yet he doesn’t have even a clue as to why that is…or that he is that way to so many. It is beyond his realm of thought concerning himself…more than he can understand…so he hides and tries to ignore it and it keeps right on growing bigger every day…hidden or not…that part of him is “out there” and he can’t stop it if he tired. Amazing…and further amazing is when he takes his last breath and is gone…what he has left will continue and probably be more prominent than ever… It is mind boggling and scary…to him especially. I would bet that he tries his best to ignore anything related and that is why he hides more than any other reason… it was too much for one man to carry physically and mentally, not to mention emotionally. So God let him hide away and just keeps right on “beating that drum” for him through other people’s words and writings…and of course all that music he left here.
I thank Wanda so much for her memories and her opinion about the way some things are now for Elvis/Jesse.
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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2014
Jesse called this afternoon for a brief chat. He was watching a football game and took a few minutes out to call. He is doing well.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2014
A good friend to our web site, Linda FC, shared a very interesting link with me in response to my earlier article concerning the possibility that Andy Kaufman also faked his death. This is a timeline of Andy’s life. There are two significant events in 1969 relating to Andy’s being a huge fan of Elvis.
I will display the link to the entire article below. Following that link, I will insert the text of the two 1969 events.
http://andykaufman.jvlnet.com/aktime.htm
Below is an excerpt of Andy’s letter to Elvis along with the link to this excerpt:
http://andykaufman.jvlnet.com/elvisletter.htm
To read Andy’s entire letter to Elvis, purchase the revised paperback edition “Lost in the Funhouse: The Life and Mind of Andy Kaufman” in stores now!
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2014
I came across a blog owned by Larry Geller recently and I shall insert the link to Larry’s blog below. There is one article on his blog which is especially meaningful to me. It is regarding things which Elvis felt and expressed to Larry about his twin, Jesse Garon. I recall that, years ago, Larry had a newsletter which he published on a regular basis. This same article appeared in one issue of his newsletter and I displayed it on my site back then. So, I apologize for the duplication to my long-time visitors who may recall reading this before. It does bear repeating. It explains Elvis’ loneliness related to Jesse not being physically present as well as his thoughts of asking “why did I live and Jesse died“.
Jesse told me, when explaining about being Jesse now, that he could always feel Jesse’s presence with him. He said that Elvis lived 42 years and that Jesse deserved 42 years also.
His being Jesse now is very important to him and he does take it very seriously. Sometimes a topic will come up in our conversations and Jesse will say something like “I left all that behind…that was Elvis.”
Here is the link to Larry Geller’s blog:
http://www.elvispresleybiography.net/elvis-presley-hairstylist-larry-geller-blog/?p=60
Below is Larry’s article regarding Jesse Garon:
The Mystery of Jesse Garon
February 4, 2011
“What is my role, my duty, my goal, amidst this bewildering breathtaking
drama in which I find myself involved?”
The life and death of his stillborn twin brother, Jesse Garon, was a precious mystery to Elvis, an indelible part of his life. But then, Elvis was always intrigued by the mystery that lay at the heart of all existence.
When it came to Jesse Garon, he told me that as a child he would talk about him to anyone who would listen. “I have a brother!” he announced proudly, telling everyone how close they were, and how they talked together all the time. At night as he lay in his bed, in the dark and silence of his room, he would have special conversations with Jesse, and later tell people what his brother had said to him.
I knew Elvis had a stillborn twin brother; my own younger twin sisters had told me after they read a story about him in a movie magazine. It was only after we met in April of 1964, that I came to realize how deeply Elvis had been affected by this unfulfilled relationship.
“I’ll tell ya Larry, being a twin has always been a mystery for me. I mean, we were in our mother’s womb together, so why was he born dead and not me? He never even got his chance to live. Think about it, why me? Why was I the one that was chosen? An’ I’ve always wondered what would’ve been if he had lived, I really have. These kinds of questions tear my head up. There’s got to be reasons for all this.”
This was our very first conversation. I was a virtual stranger, yet for some reason Elvis felt that he wanted to bare his soul about Jesse Garon. I learned over the years that this was one aspect of his life he rarely if ever spoke about. But on this particular afternoon he opened the floodgates freely, revealing something so intimate that it was obvious that he was deeply burdened by the notion that he might have survived at the expense of his twin.
Elvis sat in silence for a moment with his eyes fixed on the ground, then looked up at me. “Larry, listen, I’m going to tell you something, and it might even sound strange, but it’s something I’ve secretly thought about before. Maybe, maybe it was me. Maybe it was something I did, ya know? Who knows, maybe when we were in the womb together we were fighting like Jacob and his twin like it says in the Bible. Man that story always stuck with me. Maybe I was like Jacob who tried to stop his brother from being born first. Hey, I’m just saying…anything’s possible.”
I learned so much about Elvis that first afternoon; his freedom of expression, his willingness to explore, and most of all his vulnerability. And I’ve always felt that all during his life he reached out for the brother he never had the chance to know; the seed was always there. He called us his “family.” Yet at all times, even when he felt betrayed, he felt a deep concern for the very ones who hurt him most. And in a curious way the guys were a composite of his twin – but never really a replacement.
It wasn’t until 1977, just a few months before Elvis’ death that I heard him bring up Jesse after all those years. Elvis was so open; he loved to talk about anything under the sun. From sex, politics or religion, to intimate details about family, friends, wives, girl friends, co-workers and private thoughts and feelings about his career and his own life, nothing was out of bounds. But I can’t remember his ever really talking about Jesse Garon…not until one day in the spring while we were on tour. I entered his room while he was still in bed.
“Lawrence”, Elvis declared excitedly, “You won’t believe the dream I just had. Man, it was so real. An’ I can’t remember dreaming about my brother Jesse Garon since I was a little kid. But there we were together – on stage. Seemed like thousands of people in the audience, and they were screaming at us. It was wild! We were dressed alike, wearing identical white jumpsuits, and we were both playing matching guitars slung around our shoulders. . There were two blue spotlights, one shining on him, one on me. An’ I kept looking at him, and man, he was the spitting image of me.
I’ll tell you something else Lawrence…” Elvis grinned. “Jesse had a way better voice than me.”
You will find that Larry has articles on his blog regarding many more topics. I have not had a chance to look at all of them so I can’t recommend them personally…but it should be interesting and enlightening reading. I say this because Jesse said that Larry Geller wanted to write a book and that he gave his permission. Jesse said that he liked the book. The title of that book is “IF I CAN DREAM” Elvis’ Own Story
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Below is the link to a site which contains many photos of Elvis when he was being processed into the Army in 1958. Some of the photos are new to me or else I have forgotten seeing them before. I do remember very well when this took place.
Elvis Joins the Army
From the age of 23 to 25 – March 1958 to March 1960 – Elvis Presley was a soldier in in the United States Army. His monthly pay was $78 – plus $1,000 from his record company.
Extraordinarily, different branches of the U.S. Armed Forces had vied with each other to secure Elvis as a serving member. The Navy offered to form an “Elvis Presley” company, created exclusively from Elvis’ friends and men from Memphis. As an added incentive, he would be given his own private quarters and would perform in Las Vegas.
Elvis Presley measures in during pre-induction physical examination at Kennedy Veterans Hospital in Memphis.
Image: Don Cravens/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images
“People were expecting me to goof up. I was determined to prove otherwise.“
Elvis Presley
Army barber James Peterson takes care of business with his most famous soldier at Fort Chaffee reception center.
Image: Don Cravens/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images
Elvis Presley clad only in his skivvies as an Army doctor conducts his pre-induction physical at Kennedy Veterans Hospital.
Image: Don Cravens/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images
The Army offered a post that would allow Elvis to tour U.S. Army bases around the world, in an effort to improve troop morale and bolster recruitment numbers. The Pentagon also offered him the chance to join Special Services, which would mean he would not have to undergo regular soldier training but would still be able to entertain the troops.
Elvis declined all these offers and enlisted as a regular soldier. He was initially scheduled for induction in January 1958, but received an extension to finish filming of the move, “Kid Creole.”
He reported for duty on March 24, 1958. News reporters called it “Black Monday.”
Despite the media descriptions, Elvis’s recording career hardly missed a beat. During a two-week leave, he recorded five songs. And his record company, RCA, produced a steady stream of unreleased recordings during that time.
Altogether, Elvis strung together 10 Top-40 hits during his months in the service.
Elvis tries on his Army boots, but stays sharp in plaid sport coat and slacks at Fort Chaffee.
Image: Don Cravens/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images
Elvis gets a shot from an Army doctor during his pre-induction physical at Kennedy Veterans Hospital.
Image: Don Cravens/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images
Still in the plaid sport coat, Elvis is sworn into the U. S. Army by Maj. Elbert Turner.
Image: Don Cravens/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images
His hair shorn, Elvis adjusts his new uniform after his induction at Fort Chaffee.
Image: Don Cravens/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images
This was a very significant period in Elvis’ life. While away in Germany, his mother died, and he met 14-year-old Priscilla Beaulieu, later to become his wife, Priscilla Presley. It was also the first and only time he left North America.
Elvis in newly issued Army fatigues & jacket.
Image: Don Cravens/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images
Private Presley heads for the barracks.
Image: Don Cravens/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images
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This is a very good interview with Elvis from 1962…I love listening to him talk….did then and do now.
Elvis Presley Interview With Floyd Sheaver…Part 1 of 3.
The Midnight DJ
Published on Mar 9, 2014
Elvis Presley interview with Floyd Sheaver…Hollywood, California…August, 1962…Part 1…
In this rare and intriguing interview, Elvis discusses a variety of topics from business to personal and philosophy.
His Bel Air house at 10539 Bellagio Rd. is mentioned, which was a lease from Nov. 1961 – Jan. 1963 while filming movies. The house was built by famed architect Wallace Neff for Hollywood movie mogul Sol Wurtzel of Fox Pictures in the early 1930’s. The Italian Renaissance mansion, true to Neff’s form, was a masterpiece. Other famous residents who once lived in the house include Howard Hughes and Prince Rainier of Monaco.
http://youtu.be/v21W4jR7z6w
httpv://youtu.be/v21W4jR7z6w
Elvis Presley Interview With Floyd Sheaver…Part 2
http://youtu.be/aAxvBWmmmhE?list=UUbMGqYJqLWonAKHYJQK9ovg
httpv://youtu.be/aAxvBWmmmhE?list=UUbMGqYJqLWonAKHYJQK9ovg
Elvis Presley Interview With Floyd Sheaver…Part 3
Published on Mar 9, 2014
http://youtu.be/BIaldRv79G0
httpv://youtu.be/BIaldRv79G0
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SENT TO JESSE THROUGH THIS POINT ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014
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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2014
I see that there are plans in the works to recreate Elvis in the virtual form for a variety of uses including live and holographic concerts, advertising, feature films, etc.
Below is a detailed article which mentions these possibilities. Hm.m.m.m.m don’t know how I feel about this yet… Obviously the corporation which now owns ALL of the rights to all things “Elvis” will have the deciding vote in how this company, or anyone else, can use “Elvis” in any commercial manner. My only wish is that whatever they choose to do will not be “out of character” for Elvis himself. Hopefully this will all be done in a most respectful manner. We don’t ever want to see anymore things of the “Mr. Potato Head” caliber…never understood why P.P. would approve something so foolish. Jesse was not at all pleased about that product.
Here is the link to this article:
http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/prnewswire/SF34746.htm
Pulse Evolution Corporation, Creator of Virtual Michael Jackson, Starts Trading on OT…
CNNMoney Pulse Evolution Corporation (“Pulse”) is the entertainment IP company that created Virtual Michael Jackson and expects to create and launch new careers for Virtual Elvis Presley and other iconic celebrities…. Founded by the world’s leading producers of photorealistic digital humans, Pulse develops “virtual humans” for live and holographic concerts, advertising, feature films, branded content…
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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014
These photos were found and released back in 2011 (if I am not mistaken), however, I haven’t seen them anywhere for a long time. Wanted to share this here now for others who maybe have not seen them at all or not for a long time. These, as you can see, are of Elvis (early on) greeting fans and signing autographs from inside the gate.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2014
My friend, Toni, shared the following video with me on Facebook. Toni thought that Jesse would perhaps like to see this and I agree. Therefore, I am posting it on here so that I won’t overlook sending it to Jesse in this week’s package. Toni pointed out that there is a photo of Elvis with Glen which is included in this video. My heart goes out to Glen, his wife, children and all of his family and friends.
The Final Song Of His Career Reveals The Devastating Effects Of Alzheimer’s Disease
By Adam Mordecai
Published on Oct 7, 2014 Originally reported by Rolling Stone.
In 2011, country music legend Glen Campbell was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative illness that causes dementia and is estimated to affect one in 85 people by 2050. There is no cure.
To make sure people remembered what he’s really about, he wrote a beautiful song called “I’m Not Gonna Miss You.” The song is a precursor to the documentary about his life, “Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me.”
In April, he was checked into a specialized facility to deal with the last stages of the disease. You can learn more about Alzheimer’s disease here.
Music video by Glen Campbell performing I’m Not Gonna Miss You. (C) 2014 Big Machine Records, LLC.
http://youtu.be/U8TsAh-zYFI
httpv://youtu.be/U8TsAh-zYFI
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2014
I am sharing the following two posts from Facebook as they seem to give pretty much the same view of things taking place at Graceland in recent times. If what is written is accurate, then we all have cause for concern. Below, is the first comment along with my own response regarding one of the posts.
How dare anyone try to remove Elvis’ name from anything to do with Graceland? Who do they think brings in all the money for their lavish lifestyles????
There are some problems I noticed at Graceland during my visit on Saturday. the first thing that comes to mind is that the property where the new hotel is suppose to be built is about two blocks to the North of the Mansion. Because of this, it doesn’t appear that the planes themselves would interfere at all with the hotel, the convention center or any other building EPE is planning for the hotel property. Once again, and as Nicla has mentioned in her posts, the staff member giving tours of the Guest House room was ill informed about everything except to mention over and over that the hotel was to be completed in 2016 but couldn’t give an approximate date. I did discover that many of those that did put deposits on one of the Founder’s packages, have demanded refunds. now, lets talk about what’s going on at Graceland Crossing. This area is also scheduled to be demolished. Rob, and Bernard at the Rock and Roll Café told me that the café will move to another location but as of now, that location is still up in the air. According to Bernard, the talk is that EPE is going to use the area from the north end of the welcome center, where the planes are located to the far north end of the property (this is where the Kentucky Fried Chicken Store is currently) and to the west, (where Elvis Presley’s Heart Break Hotel currently sits) and put in an amusement park. A high dollar amusement park. Not so much on the order as a Disney Land because there simply isn’t enough room, but more along the lines of Cedar Point in Sandusky Ohio. The amusement park is the talk of most of the people who work at the Crossing in the gift shops. They will all be out of work. According to Rob and Alex Cramer a local news correspondent, the new EPE management believes that Elvis is a relic and that the old management at EPE was myopic. The name “Elvis” will very shortly be removed from all advertising and building names and replaced with “Graceland.” I can’t help but wonder if Priscilla would dare attempt to convince us that this was also one of Elvis’ “life long dreams” as she did at the ground breaking for The Guest House at Graceland. Right now, as we speak, Priscilla is probably the most hated woman in Memphis. I had a chance to visit with some of the other retailers in the area of Elvis Presley’s Graceland Mansion and Elvis Presley’s Lisa Marie and Hound Dog II. the building of the hotel and amusement park will cause such traffic problems along Elvis Presley Boulevard that many fear they will have to close because the normal everyday traffic they all rely upon will probably be re-routed through a maze of detours. But speaking of the new hotel, the property is still vacant and the only dirt that has been turned over was at the ground breaking. In other words, they are not moving too quickly. This is where there is a bright spot for us. the Memphis City Counsel has only given EPE tentative approval to build the hotel. Full approval can only come after construction blue prints are approved by the Shelby County Building Commission which hasn’t received the first set of plans yet. Also, EPE will have to demonstrate to the City of Memphis that it can either finance this project on it’s own or has sufficient financing from outside sources. According to the Memphis Business Journal there hasn’t been any word for any Memphis based financial institution concerning local financing of the project or projects. It is my opinion that EPE is trying to test the market and determine if the hotel and amusement park are viable projects and are doing so through offering the “Founder’s” prepaid hotel accommodations. This is where I believe we must channel our efforts. If we can not get a total boycott of everything EPE has it’s fingers in, we will surely lose this fight. On the other hand, if we are successful in this boycott and disrupt the cash flow at EPE, they may rethink their position that Elvis is a relic and that the old way was the wrong way. It did work for over 34 years. They were doing something right now weren’t they? Let us know what you think and please share this post. David Moore, Conway, Arkansas.
Below is the second posted account of happenings around Graceland…this during Elvis week:
My dearest friends…
As you all may or may not know, I went to Memphis and Tupelo for Elvisweek. I was planning to ask around about the future of the planes and of Graceland but nobody at EPE was saying anything. It seemed like everything was gonna be alright!!!! Even at the special presidentsevent, there was noöne present who could tell us something about the planes. And my friends… That’s why I went to this event, to get some straight answers about the “Lisa Marie” and the “Hound Dog II” but nothing was said in any way. So again it seemed like it was going to be okay for the planes.
My wife Laetitia and myself got married there at Graceland in “The Chapel In The Woods”… I must say that it was a great experience because I wanted to be close to my friend Elvis on this wonderful day. Before the ceremony we had to go into the EPE office building. My name must have rang a bell but again nobody took any action. I was thinking by myself again… “You see, everything is just gonna be alright”. I didn’t want to cause any trouble on this wonderful day and I kept my mouth shut.
A few days later we went to the special VIP reception at the main stage just before the screening of “That’s The Way It Is” at the “Orpheum” theatre downtown. We payed $50 each to get dome food and drinks. There was no Elvismusic playing… On the stage there were to bluegrass singing girls who did some Elviscovers. I was so disappointed! I payed a lot of money to get very little. I felt betrayed!!! EPE took my money and ran away… Then I saw Jack Soden overlooking the crowed on the side of the tent… He didn’t mingle with the fans and he didn’t say anything. I got up and walked towards him but in a second he was gone and I was left behind. For the first time I felt that there was something gonna be very wrong. Jack not wanting to talk to the fans… I guess he didn’t want to be confronted with the fans asking him about the destruction of Elvis’ legacy. There was something in the air but I couldn’t put my finger on it at that moment but I should have known…
I refused to go to the questionsession with Priscilla Beaullieu… Friends tell me that she refused to talk about the planes and only talked about the upcoming hotel. The session didn’t last very long. When she decided it was finished, she stood up and walked away without one word about the planes. When she came out of the main tent, I just walked by with my wife… I called her name and asked her about the planes but she waved quickly to the Elvisfans (not hers) and got into her car. This event and what happened afterwards was one huge sign of disrespect for us, the Elvisfans!!!! Priscilla was acting like she is one big time moviestar. She seemed to be forgetting that without Elvis she would be nothing at all. Now, Elvis has gone for over 37 years and those people are no longer interested in his legacy. They only want his money and this is the saddest thing that ever could happen to the memory of Elvis Aaron Presley. It was really the story of his life… “Get the money and run!”. But now Elvis is no longer with us to defend himself! EPE and ABG can do what they want without any problem. Elvis only has his fans to defend his legacy and the corporate people are ignoring us, so there’s no problem for EPE and ABG. Let them think so because they mustn’t underestimate the enormous power of Elvis’ united fans!!!
As every fan I was also spending enormous amounts of money at the Graceland giftshops… What did I know… I thought everything was going to be okay. I was so wrong!!!! A week after we returned home, I got the news that Elvis’ beloved planes were for sale. I couldn’t believe my eyes and ears. I was so heartbroken and felt betrayed in every way possible… EPE took my money and returned the favour by putting this news on me!!!! I broke down in tears and I felt the earth disappearing from beneath my feet. I left my money behind at Graceland in the hand of EPE, thinking that it would be invested in Graceland!!!! Now EPE was doing just the opposite. I don’t want the planes to disappear from Graceland… I don’t want the “Heartbreak Hotel” to be demolished to be replaced by a huge and expensive hotel… I don’t want Elvis’ name to be replaced by Graceland… I don’t want Graceland turned into some sort of a carnival… This was and is a tue nightmare, a nightmare we have to stop. If EPE doesn’t want to listen to us, we have to make them listen.
I just had the time of my life in Memphis and I was so hurt about EPE’s betrayel of the fans!!! I cannot express in words what I was feeling that moment. Now the sadness and hurt have been replaced by anger and outrage!
I know that some fans out there are still think that EPE, Jack Soden, Priscilla and ABG are doing a great job… Don’t be fooled. They are destroying Elvis’ legacy for the sake of money and we, the fans, must stop them.
TCB,
Stefaan
There is a discussion going on at the following Facebook page in case others wish to join in and post anything they may know first hand regarding the decisions reportedly being made regarding “Elvis” and “Graceland“.
https://www.facebook.com/saveelvisplanes/posts/637363199713573?fref=nf
https://www.facebook.com/saveelvisplanes?fref=nf
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SENT TO JESSE THROUGH THIS POINT ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2014
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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2014
I came across this photo of Elvis with Lisa below which is one I haven’t seen before and want to share it here:
My good friend, BlueRose, shared some recent photos of Lisa and Ben with me. I thank her so much for these. Below are my favorites.
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Well, Forbes has released it’s report of the top grossing “dead” celebrities for the past 12 months. Michael Jackson is number one…let’s see how he’s doing in 37 years!!! LOL
Elvis is number two, not at all bad for 37 years, I’d say. Below is the portion of an article which pertains to Elvis.
No 2: Elvis Presley, with an estimated $55 million in earnings over the 12-month period. These are attributed in part to the millions in dollars raised each year at Graceland in Memphis.
Isn’t it ironic that Elvis, whose name may be dropped from all things pertaining to Graceland, was responsible for millions of dollars of the income which his home took in this past year. Wonder how smart it will be to change everything to Gracleand???? NO, ELVIS IS NOT A RELIC!!!! Not by a darned long shot!!!!!!
The reason these changes upset me so very much is because some of those influencing these changes know darned well that he is still here and they don’t give a flip about how he feels about things because he is “dead” and there is not a heck of a lot he can do about anything.
From the Forbes article:
“Being alive is so overrated,” the Forbes.com article says.
“While living, celebrities can be temperamental and demanding. In death, they simply become brands to be managed.”
http://www.azcentral.com/story/money/business/2014/10/17/michael-jackson-tops-list-of-highest-earning-dead-performers/17430955/
Is this what Elvis has become….just a brand to be managed????? “Something” rather than SOMEONE. “Something” whose likeness may be used on money grubbing trash such as the Mr. Potato Head. etc.???
I hope Jesse won’t mind my being so open and blunt about this situation…but someone has to say something.
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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2014
Wanda June Hill has written a statement for me to post on my site voicing her agreement with the sentiments which have been expressed recently by myself and others regarding the proposed dropping of Elvis’ name and the renaming of things formerly “Elvis” as “Graceland”, etc.
Below are Wanda’s thoughts on this matter:
It seems to me that whomever it was who thought that the name “Graceland” would sell anything without Elvis, has to be living in complete ignorance of WHY he was ELVIS…who had the means to purchase and revamp the home that he bought for his mother and dad, and called it Graceland because he liked that name. The ONLY REASON ANYONE IS INTERESTED IN GRACELAND OR EVEN MEMPHIS is the fact that ELVIS PRESLEY put it on the map, and lived in that house.
He gave his talent to his fans, he put up with those silly and sometimes laughable movies because he was told over and over again how his fans wanted to see him having fun, being in movies and looking good. He didn’t have to go out and tour, but he had to do those films because his manager signed him up for them. He believed because he thought “they knew best” meaning his manager and the studio owners. He was bored stiff, but he did his best. Finally, he put his foot down, several people he trusted told him he could get better films, but he would have to make it happen. Instead he went out on the road, doing the things he enjoyed, entertaining his fans.
Elvis was generous to a fault, he would give his last dollar to anyone he thought needed it. He even took the money his guys traveling with him had on them, to give to anyone he happened to meet who needed help. Stories abound about his generosity, his willingness to listen and to offer assistance. He practices “what he preaches” said his friend Charley Hodge, “and he never expects anyone to pay him back.” Elvis was always awed when someone did pay back a loan, and would say, “Can you guess what happened today?” and he would relate how one of the guys or another friend had come by and “paid me back!” I remember saying well “loans should be paid back, don’t you think”? And he said something like, “I never expected it, really…” And he would change the subject because it was “piercin’ my heart think’n ’bout how much they must have done with less, jus’ to do that!” It stayed with him, believe me. He must have told everyone he knew because several people I knew mentioned how humbled Elvis was that a friend had paid him back!
Most of his “friends” never even tried to pay him back…in fact, they felt that they should make more working for him; after all, he was “raking it in”. I don’t think they thought about how much it took out of him to go do those tours, to make those “silly fims” and to be “perfect” for those cameras day after day. I’d like to see just one of them try it- then we would know if they had “what it takes”. I don’t believe they would last a week under the kind of stress Elvis had to live with for more than half of his life.
He would not appreciate the fact that his name and memory is considered to be a “relic”. It would not be an insult (which I feel it is and so will a vast number of his fans) but it is totally a move to make more money- however they are forgetting that it was ELVIS’ name and talent that put that money into action in the first place. How can they be so stupid as to think that taking his name out of the picture “because he is a relic” is going to bring any money in? Especially not the least, the kind of money it makes to keep Graceland as it is, to turn away those who want to build on the land, take over the project and make it a museum featuring “relics” of the past?
Elvis is more alive today than most of those “big brained-wallet heads” who come up with those silly ideas. It’s not about what they want or think, it is about the fans that come and continue to make Graceland a place to want to go visit, and there is no lack of fans. Fans are different than people who go to amusement parks…or museums to see skeletons from creatures long ago dead… People make the trek to Memphis for one reason, because it was Elvis’ home, where he lived, walked and played, where he sometimes could be seen riding his horses or playing with the go carts, coming down to talk to his fans, and laughing with his guests. His memory is as strongly there even today as it was yesterday. I can’t imagine removing his name from Graceland…he bought it, he had it repaired, he moved his beloved mother and his father into it; he was proud of it, spoke lovingly and with amazement that he could buy it and now they want to remove him from it??? That does not make sense; I think those martinis have addled their brains!
I am floored that his daughter would even consider this, or that his ex-wife who has lived off his income for most of her life, would consider this either.
Do they want the place to go broke? Have they considered the fact they might run out of all that liquid money they are accustomed to spending?Where are their brains? I know where she said his were…but then, that was apparently where hers are located…? I remember how he was so excited when he spoke of their soon to be born baby. Worried yes, after all, his brother had died at birth. And then when Lisa was born, he’d held her and she was coming home…he was so nervous and worried that she might get cold or something so he had the house checked again to make sure it would be warm enough for the little one in the house. He wanted a son next he happily told his housekeeper and anyone else who’d listen. He always did want a family of children and he said before he knew it was a girl, he didn’t care what sex it was as long as it was healthy and that “Cilla was okay”. He was worried that she would have a hard time since she was “a little girl”.
The guys who sat and waited with him said he couldn’t be still, he was always a “wiggler” but he was about to drive them nuts. Then it was over, and he was floating somewhere over the floor…just relieved and delighted and so proud of his little wife and their new baby girl. And he said he wanted a son next…that they had talked about a boy and a girl… She was the one who changed all those plans; she told him she wasn’t going to have any more babies…ever. It hurt him, but he said it was just she wasn’t over it yet and she would change her mind. Apparently she didn’t. He said she told him she never wanted another baby…she was not going to get pregnant again. He was stunned. He thought she would change her mind, people told him women often had “after birth blues” and it would pass. Well, it didn’t. He tired to adjust, but it wasn’t easy he said, “she doesn’t want another child…ever.” She made it clear it would be his fault if she did. And that was the beginning of their end. She can say what she will, but there were others who heard her comments and they have put it in books. So I believe what he told me, Elvis never lied. Even when he should have, to defend himself…he would tell the truth even if it made him look silly or bad.
He asked me why I had only one child and did I mind talking about it with him. I said “no” and explained that I didn’t feel that I was capable of handling more than one, my own childhood had been far from normal in its early stages, and perhaps that was why I didn’t want the responsibility of raising more than one. He then told me, in a very wounded tone of voice, that ” ‘cilla said she didn’t want any more kids, ‘n she meant it.” I knew at that moment, they were done as man and wife. Elvis was deeply hurt, he didn’t understand, it was almost as if she had lied to him just to be his wife…to be in that lime light and be someone special because she was his wife…however, she was quickly bored with all that, she wanted more…she wanted her own spotlight…to get that, she had to “get rid of him”…and finally he filed for the divorce he did not want. And said he told her to say whatever she felt she needed to say only he wanted her to remember that their child would live with it the rest of her life. He didn’t contest and she got her way…plus more…because he didn’t know what his money was invested in…and some things were left off the list. So he shelled out some more money to “make sure she’s happy…” his words. He was angry but he never said bad things publicly about her, ever. The last time he spoke of her was the last Christmas he was alive; he wanted Lisa to remember it well and that he wanted her to always know that her mom and daddy loved her and even though they were apart a lot, they still cared about each other too. In all that time, through the rough part of their marriage, he never once put his ‘Cilla down, he said she was young, he should have let her grow up first, experience life some and that it was his fault she wasn’t happy, because he, after all, was older. He said he should have waited, and let her try her wings a little before he married her and then right away, she had a baby to deal with. Again, it was all his fault…Well, folks, IT WAS NOT all his fault. There is a lot of that on the other side as well. She was young, but she’d known him a long time; nothing that happened was totally his fault. She said she wanted kids…he believed what she said. That was the only fault there was…other than being his wife was not as glamorous as she thought—it was as she told him, “always about Elvis, Elvis, Elvis! ” and she said, “I am sick of it!” So he filed for the divorce. And he had no other children…not the son he always wanted, nor another daughter so Lisa would always have a sister to count on.
If anything, Elvis was too generous with his affection, his trust and his ability to make everyone feel so welcome, so needed and cherished by him. He was just designed and born to be that way… God bless his old and tired “relic” memory. Let the light shine where it should. And to heck with turning Graceland into an amusement park, for Pete’s sake! All of you who agree SPEAK UP or you will be part of “their scheme”. It is a sad thing whenever things turn into just a “way to make money for the few” by ripping off the many.
Wanda June Hill
I applaud Wanda for making her true and factual statement. Believe me, she could have told so much more about the ex-wife…emphasis on the term “ex-wife”. It galls me no end when I hear anyone refer to her as “Elvis’ widow“. I admire Wanda’s restraint.
Thank you so very much, Wanda.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2014
Just want to share that Jesse tried to reach me on Monday afternoon while we were away for the day. He left a lengthy message, but unfortunately, he was calling on the phone which always gives us so much trouble. The distortion on that phone was so bad that I could not make out a single word of his message. Then he attempted to call me again yesterday, on the same phone, and this time we never got to speak at all after I picked up as his phone malfunctioned again. Our go-between has let me know that Jesse is having problems with his regular phone and it must be repaired. So, we may not be able to have a conversation until he is able to return to using his regular phone. But, at least, we do know that he is OK and that he is thinking about calling. That alone makes me happy.
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Mr. Alfred Wertheimer, the photographer whose photos of Elvis in 1956 became so well known and loved, has passed away. He died on Tuesday. I am so very sorry to learn of his death. I thank Ron who first Emailed me on Tuesday to tell me of his passing.
Below is one of many reports about his death.
Famed Elvis Photographer Alfred Wertheimer Dies
Alfred Wertheimer, the photographer whose portraits of Elvis Presley documented the birth of a music legend, has died.
Wertheimer, who was 85, died of natural causes Sunday at his New York apartment, said Chris Murray, who owns Washington, D.C’s Govinda Gallery which counts Wertheimer among its artists.
Wertheimer was 26 when he was assigned to photograph the unknown 21-year-old singer. He traveled with Elvis from New York to Memphis by train and produced a series of now famous black and white portraits that were the subject of exhibits at the Smithsonian Institution and the Grammy Museum.
Among the most famous shots: “The Kiss,” a photo of Elvis nuzzling a woman fan backstage. Photographs of Elvis recording “Hound Dog” and “Don’t Be Cruel,” reading fan mail, eating alone, staring out a train window, playing a piano in an empty studio and walking by himself on a deserted New York street depicted a solitude that later was surrendered to fame and mobs of fans.
“Alfred’s photos were about America in 1956, the lunch counters, the trains, the stores where Elvis looked in the windows and wondered if he could ever buy those things,” Murray said. “Apart from his recordings, the photos are the most important vintage documents of Elvis’ life.”
He quoted Wertheimer as telling him: “I was a reporter whose pen was a camera.”
With his pictures appearing on calendars, in books, on memorabilia and clothing, the capstone of his career was the publication last year of “Elvis and the Birth of Rock And Roll,” a limited edition published by Taschen.
“”Alfred Wertheimer always used to say, ‘If your pictures are boring, get closer.’ And he lived up to that rule, getting inside Elvis’s world like no other photographer ever could,” said Nina Wiener, co-editor of the Taschen book.
At a book signing last year, Werthheimer recalled that he shot in black and white because RCA, Elvis’ label, refused to pay for high-priced color film and processing, uncertain if Elvis was going to be worth it. The photographer shot one roll of color that he paid for himself.
Back home, he began a freelance photo business and was hired by RCA to photograph singers. His fateful assignment in 1956 left all the other pictures in the dust. He would say later that he received a two-week assignment and it lasted nearly 60 years.
You may read the full article at: http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory/famed-elvis-photographer-alfred-wertheimer-dies-26349601
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Below is a YouTube audio of exceptional quality. This is Elvis’ live Vegas Performance Dinner Show on August 3, 1969. Wow!!!! He sounded incredible…as always.
Enjoy!!!
Elvis Live August 3, 1969 Dinner Show
imleftyourrightPublished on Jan 6, 2014
http://youtu.be/-sZ4j1OGruw
httpv://youtu.be/-sZ4j1OGruw
This is Elvis’ return to stage performances after 9 years absence, at The International, Las Vegas, 1969.
This audio is the earliest recording we have of Elvis’ come back. It is the dinner show of August 3rd, 1969.
Elvis made his comeback 3 days earlier on July 31st.
Unlike later performances in this season, Elvis sounds refreshingly young and still nervous performing live here for the sixth time in front of an audience. He delivers all the songs with a real interest and edge. There is a sincerity and freshness here that is lost in his later performances, as he became more familiar and confident with his set and the Vegas audience.
Elvis never sounded better than his 1969 run at Vegas.
This recording, undoubtedly, proves this.
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The influence of Elvis on new generations will never fade away. Below is a story about one music star who was influenced by Elvis…of course, Tim is just one of many, many.
Tim McGraw Wore Out 1968 Elvis Album
Memories of Being Raised on Elvis, Rush and Journey
Tim McGraw
By the time Tim McGraw was old enough to learn how to work a record player, say somewhere in the late 1970s, his very favorite Elvis Presley song was on a 10-year-old album.
“I had an Elvis record that I played,” McGraw said in a recent interview. “It had my favorite Elvis song on it. I’m trying to remember the name of the album, but it had ‘If I Can Dream’ on there. I played it over and over. It’s my favorite Elvis song.”Tim McGraw Wore Out 1968 Elvis Album
You may read the entire article @ http://www.cmt.com/news/country-music/1732029/tim-mcgraw-wore-out-1968-elvis-album.jhtml
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2014
Below is a speech which Elvis made to the TN Legislature at the state capitol in 1961 when he was made an honorary colonel. I have never heard this before and I love it!
Elvis speech; March 8, 1961 – Nashville, Tennessee
Published on Jul 22, 2014
One of the very few proper speeches Elvis ever gave in public, when he addressed the Tennessee Legislature at the Tennessee State Capitol on March 8th, 1961. He was made an honorary colonel.
http://youtu.be/FxPi1dnyh-o
httpv://youtu.be/FxPi1dnyh-o
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Below is a very rare 1955 interview with Elvis done by Mae Axton who later co-wrote the song “Heartbreak Hotel“.
Elvis interview; (possibly) July 28, 1955 – Jacksonville, Florida
Published on Jul 22, 2014
Elvis interviewed by Mae Boren Axton, a Jacksonville resident and a school teacher, on July 28th, 1955 (could also be from May 12th). Mae would later co-write (with Thomas Durden) Elvis’ first #1 hit “Heartbreak Hotel” (RCA).
This is the earliest known interview with Elvis that we have audio of.
More information about Elvis’ shows in Jacksonville on this great website; http://scottymoore.net/wolfson.html
“1955, Jackson, Florida” by Elvis Presley (eMusic)
http://youtu.be/ghm9jdOJR4c
httpv://youtu.be/ghm9jdOJR4c
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SENT TO JESSE THROUGH THIS POINT ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014
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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2014
A good friend to my web site, Ron Collamore, Emailed me this week with a very interesting article regarding the DEA logo running suit which Elvis was seen wearing on so many occasions in 1977 leading up to his “retirement“. On my page dedicated to Elvis’ federal government involvement and other law enforcement work you may see some of the photos of Elvis in this DEA logo suit. https://lindahoodsigmonstruth.com/elvis-federal-other-law-enforcement-agencies-active-duty-photos-documentation/
The photo of him which is purported to be the very last photo ever taken of him as “Elvis” in the wee hours of August 16, 1977, he was wearing one of these same DEA logo running suits. There WAS a reason that he was wearing that type of suit…it was a message to people that he actually was a DEA agent. Elvis stated this fact from his Vegas stage on three consecutive nights; He spoke the same statement each night and showed a document which verified his Lifetime Member position in the International Narcotics Squad Association (I may have the title of this agency slightly off as I am quoting from memory). You may see the video of one of these performances below this article.
Ron sent me the following excerpts from the article titled ELVIS: MEMPHIS TO MADISON” by Bruce Frey
“Hi Linda,
I came across this article, ELVIS: MEMPHIS TO MADISON” by Bruce Frey. Good article!
He writes, ” I attempted to find the source of Presley’s DEA outfit mystery and contacted Elvis Presley archivist at Graceland. They were confused about the outfit and did not seem to have any information. I reminded them that they currently had the DEA running suit displayed in Graceland which they confirmed. The archivist stated that they never learned the origin of this particular outfit.”
And so, he writes, “I contacted the DEA museum collection manager, Vince Lutes, who informed me that Presley had acquired the “DEA Staff” running outfit through his personal contacts in the DEA. Lutes states that this particular outfit was only available to DEA officials and staff workers at this time and that the general public would not have been available to obtain one. Presley was obviously very fond of this outfit as he can be seen in numerous photos towards the end of his life wearing this”
He did mention that Elvis was wearing this outfit on very early morning of August 16, 1977.”
I thank Ron so sincerely for bringing this article to my attention.
As I most often post a link to give credit for any full article from which each excerpt which I share is taken (when at all possible), I followed up and located the original article on Elvis Information Network aka EIN. I don’t often post the link to their site due to the fact that it was their stubborn refusal to remove the lies which Paul Monroe told (during an interview on their site) about me. Ironically, my web site came into existence BECAUSE of those lies and because of the lies told about me by a woman named B. Lee Rowe whose site page, filled with more slanderous untruths about me, was linked from EIN.
That is the bare essence of the things which caused me to ask Jesse if I could use my real name to defend myself. Jesse’s answer was “Yes…and you can use my name too!” So here we are today…five and a half years later; 121 pages of my site; 591,358 total visitors; 45,981 registered users…and growing every day. So, here’s my hat off to EIN which took the first erroneous steps that have resulted in my very successful web site which is approved by Jesse Presley who IS Elvis Aron Presley. So, everything does happen when it should as it should. If life hands you lemons, make lemonade. Welcome to Linda Hood Sigmon’s lemonade stand!!!
http://www.elvisinfonet.com/spotlight_elvis_madison_incident.html
Below I have captured a small amount of text from Mr. Frey’s lengthy interview. This interview was created to tell about the gas station brawl in Madison, Wisconsin which caused Elvis to stop to help the victim of the attack by two men. This story has been passed down in a number of ways…by the media, by word of mouth, etc. Mr. Frey was there and saw the whole thing and shook hands with Elvis after the fight was broken up. So, this full article tells, in great detail, exactly what Elvis did from the moment he stepped from his limo until he returned to it after shocking the two assailants so much that they just forgot all about attacking the gas station attendant.
The reason that this incident is of particular interest to me and others is that Elvis was wearing his DEA Staff logo running suit at the time when he stopped this fight.
” …Thompson believes the only reason the limousine stopped was because Presley burst out of the backseat.
I went over what Presley was wearing that night and was confused by Thompson’s recollection of what Presley had been wearing. Thompson recalls that Presley had little time to change out of his concert outfit as they headed to Madison from their previous venue. Thompson was aware that Presley did own some dark jackets with DEA logos on them but just could not recall which one he may have put on. Hearing Thompson’s recollection and confusion about Presley’s clothing that evening, I believe the confusion stemmed from the fact that Presley may have had both outfits on, having not changed completely out of his concert outfit and put on his DEA running outfit over it.
I attempted to find the source of Presley’s DEA outfit mystery and contacted Elvis Presley archives at Graceland. They were confused about the outfit and did not seem to have any information. I reminded them that they currently had the DEA running suit displayed in Graceland, which they confirmed. The archivist stated that they never learned the origin of this particular outfit.
I contacted the DEA museum collection manager, Vince Lutes, who informed me that Presley had acquired the “DEA Staff” running outfit through his personal contacts in the DEA. Lutes stated that this particular outfit was only available to DEA officials and staff workers at this time and that the general public would not have been able to obtain one. Presley was obviously very fond of this outfit as he can be seen in numerous photos towards the end of his life wearing this.
Presley would be seen wearing this same outfit as he was photographed by a fan for the last time as he returned to Graceland in the early morning hours before he died. It’s presumable that Presley being known for his custom styling would be wearing his concert suit and belt with his dark blue nylon DEA outfit covering his stage outfit, packing heat, and a federal badge to break up this early morning gas station fight.”
Below are several photos which appear here on my web site of Elvis wearing the DEA Staff suits. Also, I shall post below the photos a video showing Elvis arriving in Indianapolis for his final stage performance as Elvis. You will see that he was presented an award at this time and, more importantly, you will see that he was wearing one of his DEA outfits. The photos of Elvis wearing one of his DEA logos can be found in many instances over the Internet.
Below is an excerpt from a letter written by Elvis/Jesse to Dr. Hinton while the book was in progress. In this letter you will see that he had envisioned doing police work after he left in 1977. You will see that he was recognized in Miami (even after the plastic surgery) and therefore it was determined that it would not be safe for him to continue participating in that work.
(this excerpt was copied from my rough draft of the book)
Here is another statement written by Jesse concerning his work with the law enforcement agencies after 1977, the busts in which he participated as well as the plastic surgery.
(this excerpt was copied from my rough draft of the book)
US emblem during 1977 Hawaii vacation:
HE EVEN WORE IT TO THE DENTIST VISIT ON HIS LAST PUBLIC TRIP OUT OF THE HOUSE THE NIGHT BEFORE HE “RETIRED“.
Here you will hear Elvis tell the audience that he is a Federal Narcotics Agent.
My heartfelt thanks to MLordandGod who published this video on YouTube on Mar 24, 2013.
http://youtu.be/N_Tca0Zcafo
httpv://youtu.be/N_Tca0Zcafo
Below is a video of the above photographed arrival of Elvis with the awarding of the trophy in Indiana on the day of his last stage performance.
http://youtu.be/VCVZ7zMyEyM
httpv://youtu.be/VCVZ7zMyEyM
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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2014
My friend, Rich C. on Facebook, wrote to ask if it is the truth that Tommy Steele, a singer/actor from Britain really did show Elvis around London in 1958. I doubt the validity of this claim…but thought others might find his assertion of interest. Perhaps Jesse will recall whether this man is lying or telling the truth. Lamar Fike and others spoke up in denial of Steele’s claim. Below is the entry on Wikipedia regarding Tommy Steele and his statement.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tommy_Steele
Claimed meeting with Elvis Presley in Britain
For many years it was thought that Elvis Presley had never set foot in Britain, apart from spending a few minutes on the tarmac at Prestwick Airport in Scotland where his military plane, en route to the United States after completing his army service in West Germany, stopped to re-fuel. However, on 21 April 2008, in a BBC Radio 2 interview with theatre impresario Bill Kenwright, it was claimed that Presley, then 23, had visited Britain for a day, after a phone conversation with Steele in London in 1958. According to Kenwright: “Elvis flew in for a day and Tommy showed him round London. He showed him the Houses of Parliament and spent the day with him”. Kenwright admitted on 22 April 2008 that he was not sure whether he should have told the story. Tommy Steele said: “It was two young men sharing the same love of their music. I swore never to divulge publicly what took place and I regret that it has found some way of getting into the light. I only hope he can forgive me.“
Press officers employed by Stagecoach, the company that owns Prestwick Airport, rapidly issued a statement requesting proof, photographic or otherwise, of the said meeting. Until such proof is provided, they will continue to describe their property Prestwick Airport as being the only place in Britain where Elvis Presley ever set foot, and will not be removing the marker, photographs and special lounge at their airport which relate to their claim.[15][16]
Lamar Fike, a former member of the Memphis Mafia, who lived with Presley at the time, has posted a claim that it was he, not Presley, who visited London and Tommy Steele for a day in 1958.[17]
footnote: please see military document below which may support the claim made by Tommy Steele.
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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2014
I want to let everyone know that Jesse did phone me tonight. However, he is still without use of his regular phone on which he normally calls me. The voice distortion is so bad on the phone on which he called tonight that I could only make out a very few words of what he said. He could hear me fine and I spoke with him about several things which were important to me to tell him. I told him that it made me happy that he called even though I could not understand what he said.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2014
My good friend, BlueRose has done some investigative work regarding the above statement made that Elvis spent a day in London with Tommy Steele while he was stationed in Germany. She has found a military leave document which certainly indicates there is a possibility that it is true.
Also, BlueRose has pointed out, in the apology which Tommy Steele spoke upon learning that their secret London visit had somehow made it out publicly, that he spoke of Elvis in the present tense in this apology.
“I swore never to divulge publicly what took place and I regret that it has found some way of getting into the light. I only hope he can forgive me.”
BlueRose also wrote, in a comment regarding this topic, on our Messages For Jesse page:
“Yet I have an eyewitness and a scanned document that says Elvis went somewhere for 36 hours, BEFORE Lamar Fike was in Germany and figures that Tommy Steele was a good cover in case he was discovered. “
I can vouch for the truth which BlueRose wrote above about the eyewitness with whom she is acquainted.
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As most of us know, Elvis had a very special boxing robe designed and made for his friend, Muhammad Ali. The robe had many of the same features as Elvis’ stage jumpsuits. I have seen photos of Ali with the robe on. But, today I came across a photo of Elvis during his presenting the gift to Ali. I loved seeing this new (to me) photo. This was posted on Twitter by Historical Pics.
Historical Pics @HistoricalPics
Elvis Presley giving Muhammad Ali a $10K robe with “People’s Champion” inscribed on it, February 14, 1973
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For many years, I have taken note of the license plate number on Elvis’ car and the same five numbers appearing in the serial number assigned to him by the Army. I wrote to Jesse about this coincidence many years ago. I don’t know if there is any significance to this or not…but, to me, it is intriguing. As you can see below, the first five numbers are the same just in a different sequence. Even if it is just a bit of meaningless trivia…isn’t that a gorgeous photo of Elvis!!
Presley reported for his induction on March 24 1958, a day dubbed “black Monday” for his fans by the press.[3]Presley was given a physical and assigned Army Serial Number: 53310761.
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2014
Below is a rarely seen photo of Elvis with his mother. This was shared with me by Wanda June Hill. Wasn’t Gladys beautiful…
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2014
Below is an excerpt from an interview done with James Burton. I respect James very much and reading his interview is most enjoyable. His is a very good perspective of the man, Elvis.
JAMES BURTON: “The young man on lead guitar is one of the finest guitar players I’ve ever met”, said Elvis Presley in 1969.
Working with Elvis a ‘real treat’
VICKI ANDERSON
“…When Elvis called Burton up in 1969 he was looking to put a band together for his Las Vegas shows.
Burton was busy in the studio. He’d just turned down a tour with Bob Dylan. Over the years he’s worked with Rick Nelson, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Glen Campbell, John Denver, Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris, Elvis Costello, Roy Orbison, Joni Mitchell and more.
“I was very busy in the studio, recording with a lot of different artists, it was tough for me, I couldn’t make a decision right away but it worked out. We put a band together and opened in Las Vegas in 1969. I played on Viva Las Vegas, Girls Girls Girls and a bunch of movies,” Burton recalls. “Working with him for nine years was a real treat. He was a great guy and a great entertainer, a fun guy to be with. I became family when we worked together. We were like brothers.”
One phrase has followed the “master of the Telecaster” throughout his life.
” ‘Play it James’,” he laughs. “As Elvis used to say. That’s become a household word, but my wife Louise changed it to ‘take the trash out James’.”
Elvis liked to joke around, he says, but when he got into the studio he was very serious.
“We traveled a lot, we played a lot of shows. Unfortunately we didn’t get a chance to make it over to New Zealand and Australia. We’ve done it since he passed away.” When Elvis died, Burton was on a plane going to open a show on the next tour with the band when they got a call.
“They asked us to return to Las Vegas. That was a sad day. They wouldn’t tell us why, but when we stopped they told us he had passed away. I got on a plane the next day to fly to Memphis. My wife and I were at the funeral in a limousine number 5 or 6. Thankfully he didn’t suffer, he had a massive heart attack.”
He remembers hours spent talking to Elvis about music. “He was the boss, whatever he wanted to sing was OK with us. He couldn’t get enough of it, he wanted to hear more music. Sometimes we’d blow him off the stage and he loved it.”
Pranks between the band members sometimes went to extraordinary levels. Elvis liked playing jokes on everybody else, but didn’t like being on the receiving end.
“He was always kidding around with us. One night at the International Hotel, Elvis got a water gun and started going around the stage and shooting everyone with water.”
A couple of the guys got together and decided to play a joke on Elvis.
They bought thousands of marbles and put them all over the stage.
“When Elvis was on stage he was all over the place with those hips of his.
“He came out that night and saw all the marbles. Boy, that really got him, he didn’t like that at all.”
After the show, in the early hours of the morning, conductor Joe Guercio went home very tired.
“A couple of hours after he got home Elvis had a big semi truck bring over a massive load of marbles, a million marbles,” Burton says. “The delivery guy said ‘I have a delivery here for Mr Joe Guercio’.”
He was tired and wanted to go to bed. He instructed the delivery man to dump the delivery in front of house. He’d take care of it the next day.
“So the guy dumped all the million marbles all over the front of the house. When Joe got up the next day he could not believe it.”
Burton laughs loudly for a long time at the memory.
There’s a long pause before he speaks again.
“Elvis loved every one of the band,” Burton says. “And we loved him.”
– © Fairfax NZ News
http://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/music/62834947/working-with-elvis-a-real-treat
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SENT TO JESSE THROUGH THIS POINT ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014
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I HAVE STARTED A NEW PAGE FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER, 2014
BELOW IS THE LINK TO THE NEW CURRENT NEWS AND EVENTS PAGE
https://lindahoodsigmonstruth.com/current-news-events/current-news-and-events-november-2014/
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Copyright LindaHoodSigmonTruth.com May, 2009 – 2014 All rights reserved.
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