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Strictly Elvis Newsletter No13v3_Strictly Elvis SumNL.qxd 31/03/2015 11:22 Page 1

Newsletter No. 13 Spring 2015

Good Morning, also planning to Just one more Another year is well under way support as many piece of news for and what a start we’ve all had... regional Fan Club you, I’m delighted the Elvis at the O2 Exhibition is events as we can to report that Lisel proving to be a glorious success again this year, Simpson has for EPE and for UK (and European including a joined the ‘Strictly’ judging by the many languages Gospel Concert staff as Editor of I hear every time I’m there) Elvis in Chelmsford the Newsletter - fans and now plans are afoot to Cathedral hopefully freeing replicate it in Las Vegas at the very organized by me up to help hotel that Elvis appeared at and Elvis in Essex. plan more events stayed in. Our 80th Birthday Tour I don’t get and holidays... was an absolute ‘blast’ with lots to serious very often or to go down the see and do in Memphis and even but humour me for pub! Lisel worked more so for the two full a moment as I say for the police for coachloads of fans who travelled that it is common 21 years but has with the Elvis Travel Service and knowledge in both given up on who had quite a few extra the commercial and social world protecting the public (mostly from ‘surprises’. But that’s what we do that 90% of people who each other!) and is now studying isn’t it? For the fans, by the fans, participate in things come from for a Masters Degree in Education and long may that continue. just 10% of the members or and Applied Linguistics with the And what have we got coming customer base. And that’s true sole intention of tying our Neil up? Well with TV Antiques with us too... fortunately we have Cameron up in verbal knots. Celebrity and Rock’n’Roll singer such a huge mailing list we can No chance! Lisel has had short (as well as Elvis nut!) Paul Hayes live with that. But it hit home stories published and is currently and his band starring at our Elvis when I was talking to an Elvis fan working on a novel. I won’t let her Spring Break in Torquay (see back recently who, after many years anywhere near this front page tho’! page advertisement) that’s bound (actually decades) of being a to be another smash hit. The 38th ‘lonely’ fan finally found us and T Anniversary Tour to Tupelo, had the courage to book on one of Cheers for now Memphis and beyond is receiving our trips – travelling alone. Or so B lots of interest - as is the trip to she thought! What she (and I’m Bad Nauheim over the same sure thousands of other fans) August period and as for the Elvis didn’t realize is that you are never David J. Wade Festival... well I don’t think we’ve ‘alone’ on a Strictly Elvis event or ever had such a response. Elvis Travel Service holiday. Our Bookings are flying in (as are our Tour Managers and I make sure of STOP PRESS guests!) so if you haven’t booked that. We’re all Elvis fans and what yet then have a read of the comes with that is a camaraderie brochure enclosed with this issue or ‘bond’ that is hard to describe and then reserve your places as yet everyone who has been on any soon as you can. of the trips in the last few years And other things? Well in will tell you is there... in spadefuls. conjunction with visits to the O2 We are a ‘family’, a Strictly Elvis we have already planned a visit to Family and if you are sitting at the Memphis West End Show and home reading this and haven’t a 10-pin Bowling Evening will be travelled with us for awhile or Elvis’ friend, stylist, confidante announced shortly - by the way, been to one of our events then and spiritual adviser will be best to watch our Facebook page please do join us. You may be our Star Guest for the Elvis (The Travel missing out on a whole world of Festival at Great Yarmouth Service/Strictly Elvis) for details of Elvis fun and it could change your events such as these - and we are life. Go on, take the plunge. Strictl y Elvi s UK 1 Strictly Elvis Newsletter No13v3_Strictly Elvis SumNL.qxd 31/03/2015 11:22 Page 2

DIARY UPDATE

Elvis Spring Break in Torquay Bad Nauheim and Friedberg Friday 15th to Monday 18th May 2015 Thursday 13th to Monday 17th August 2015 Join us for a great weekend of fun and Elvis at the Come with us to see where Elvis lived in Germany lovely Victoria Hotel in the delightful resort of whilst in the US Army - see the base itself in Torquay. This ever-popular Elvis Weekender features Friedberg, and his homes in Bad Nauheim plus loads live entertainment, all-Elvis Disco’s and lots more of other fascinating Elvis sights. Plenty of time also to besides. Plus ample time to enjoy the wonderful food, enjoy the Elvis Anniversary Celebrations arranged by the hotel’s fabulous facilities and to explore Torquay the Bad Nauheim Tourist Office and these include a and the beautiful surrounding area. This year we have Cadillac Parade, classic motor cycles, an Elvis top-class entertainment provided by the Paul Hayes marketplace, an Anniversary Concert with the TCB Collection (who were such a huge hit at the last Elvis Band, film shows and candle-light vigil. Choice of Festival) plus the ever-popular Rockin’ Dave Riley. travel by coach and ferry or by air. For a brochure or To book just call us on 01473 621 564 to make a booking contact us on 01473 621 564 Elvis 38th Anniversary Tours to the USA Elvis Festival at Vauxhall 5 Star Holiday Park, Gt Yarmouth Friday 7th to Tuesday 18th Saturday 5th to Saturday 12th August 2015 September 2015 Elvis for Tupelo and Memphis This is THE BIG ONE. th Friday 7th to Tuesday 25th Now celebrating its 35th year. August 2015 If you haven’t attended our for Tupelo, Memphis, Fort Chaffee, Elvis Festival before Anniversary38 Tours Shreveport and New Orleans (or perhaps not for several years) August 2015 Join the Elvis Travel Service for our then make sure you join us this time. now renowned annual pilgrimage to You won’t believe the atmosphere and our annual Tupelo and Memphis over the Elvis Anniversary. Elvis Festival just keeps getting bigger and with Having been operating tours to Memphis and Tupelo special star guests from the USA, plus a fabulous since 1972 no-one can claim more experience (and line-up of entertainment, superb accommodation contacts) than us - and we use this to make our Elvis and wonderful facilities, the best just keeps getting holidays the very best there are. Our Tour Managers are even better. Brochure enclosed with this Newsletter genuine Elvis fans and their sightseeing tours of and bookings can be made by calling Vauxhall 5 Star Tupelo and Memphis are informative and fascinating, Holiday Park on 01493 857 231 giving you a unique insight into Elvis’ life there. This year there’s a choice of two great holidays; the first holiday features Tupelo and Memphis whilst the Strictly Elvis UK is the Newsletter of Strictly Elvis UK and second travels on to see Fort Chaffee, Arkansas where the Elvis Travel Service – trading names of David Wade Ltd, an Elvis was inducted into the US Army (and where he organisation that has led the way in Elvis holidays and events for had the famous ‘Army haircut’), to historic Fort Smith (a over 40 years. Founded in 1972 David Wade Ltd is registered with true frontier town), to Shreveport where Elvis appeared on the Louisiana Hayride, to the Louisiana State Capital Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc and works closely with them to promote of Baton Rouge and finally to the city of New Orleans , the Heartbreak Hotel and Graceland’s Chapel in the where we take you on a fascinating tour of the Woods. The names ‘Elvis’, ‘Elvis Presley’, ‘Graceland’ and ‘Heartbreak location sites for . For more information or Hotel’ are registered to Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc with the USPTO. to book phone us on 01473 621 564

Find us on Twitter at: and on Facebook at: @ElvisTravel The Elvis Presley Travel Service/Strictly Elvis

Anyone with a computer, tablet or smartphone can use this relatively new phenomenon. You don’t have to get involved but it’s great to watch what’s happening. Our Facebook Page for instance is back home can share in the enjoyment... constantly gaining new ‘friends’ who ‘like’ with people wanting to book there and then! the reports and photo’s that we post. We update the page on a regular basis and You too can follow us on Facebook use it for Announcements (such as for the by logging on and going to new Elvis at the O2 Exhibition), for details of The Elvis Presley Travel Service/Strictly Elvis our own events and especially to post daily reports from our holidays so that the fans Or on Twitter at @ElvisTravel

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ADVANCE INFORMATION Elvis Anniversary Tours 2016 and 2017 We appreciate that for many Elvis fans the trip to We haven’t yet decided on whether the Memphis and beyond is still a lifelong dream and Birthday tour in 2017 will have an extension but the with the constant (and we believe often unfair) August tour (for the 40th Anniversary) certainly will. increases in air fares it is understandable that such For that tour we are planning to offer a two island a trip needs to be decided upon sometimes years Hawaii extension visiting the beautiful island of ahead and then saved for. For this reason we get Kauai (staying at the Coco Palms Hotel if it is rebuilt almost daily requests for details of trips coming up in time) as well as Oahu, staying on fabulous in one, two, three and even four years time. Waikiki Beach. Of course we don’t always know, as the trips can depend on many factors - including how successful the research has been into yet another destination with a strong Elvis connection. Each year tho’ Elvis fans will know that we operate a guaranteed two tours to the USA, one in January to celebrate Elvis’ Birthday and another in August to commemorate the Anniversary of his passing. Occasionally we will operate holidays at other times of the year but we know from long experience that fellow fans wish to be at Graceland over those two particularly significant periods - especially as it is only then that EPE put on a programme of Elvis events. Both tours feature nearly a whole week in Memphis and a visit to Tupelo. Whilst the January tours will sometimes incorporate an optional extension to another (usually warm!) destination of Elvis interest, the August tour always As airlines only confirm their does - giving fans the choice of a 10-12 day tour of air fares 11 months in advance Tupelo and Memphis or a longer tour incorporating it will be impossible for us other exciting places. (or anyone) to give an accurate For January 2016 for instance, after our Elvis’ tour price until September Birthday Week in Memphis (incorporating a day trip 2016, however we are happy to use our long to Tupelo) we are again heading to the Florida experience of travel costs and trends to give you an sunshine - this time to the Gulf Coast where our estimated price and we will be doing this in a days will be spent enjoying the beach, the theme Preview Brochure which will accompany the next parks and the film locations for Elvis’ ‘Follow that Newsletter. In the meantime we already have over Dream’ which was filmed just to the north of 50 fans signed up for this holiday having paid us a Tampa. A brochure will accompany the next £10 Refundable deposit to hold them a guaranteed Newsletter but for advance information phone us place. We’ll gladly do the same for you - just send on 01473 621 564 . £10 per person to Elvis Travel Service, Unit D Bristol In August 2016 we head west from Memphis to Court, Martlesham Heath Business Park, Ipswich, Las Vegas to see where Elvis ‘stole everyone’s show!’, Suffolk, IP5 3RY. to stay at the very hotel that Elvis stayed and performed in and to visit the new Elvis Exhibition And 2018 and beyond? that’s a feature of the hotel. We then drive through the Mojave Desert via the Grand Canyon and on to Sorry, even we can’t think that far ahead but rest glorious Palm Springs to see Elvis’ homes there and assured whatever we decide to offer will be good, from where we’ll visit Burbank, Hollywood and innovative, lots of fun and full of Elvis! Beverly Hills.

Strictly Elvis UK - Elvis Travel Service Unit D, Bristol Court, Martlesham Heath Business Park, Ipswich, Suffolk IP5 3RY, UK. Telephine: 01473 621 564 Email: [email protected] Website: www.strictlyelvis.net

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The 36th Anniversary Tour in Well you could join us for visit a Plantation Home and 2013 was one of the best we’d an extension tour that’ll blow finally to spend four glorious ever operated - they’re all good your mind... see where Elvis nights in New Orleans. but this was exceptionally so - had his first ‘Army Haircut’ in And if the music, food and which is why we are repeating Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, stay history weren’t enough, then it in 2015 for the many fans in the same hotel that Elvis our walking tour of the old that missed it the first time. stayed in in Shreveport, French Quarter showing you Join us for our fabulous tour Louisiana and see the all the film location sites for of Tupelo and Memphis – auditorium home of the King Creole adds yet another nobody knows these places or Louisiana Hayride, visit James dimension to this wonderful does it better than we do and Burton’s studio and see lots city. You would love it. if you want the ultimate Elvis of other Elvis sights there experience then come with us - before heading to the State For a brochure containing you really won’t ever regret it. Capital, Baton Rouge, down full details or to book please And then? the Mississippi River road to call us on 01473 621 564.

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WELCOME TO MY WORLD (SPOTLIGHT ON THE FANS) BY LISEL SIMPSON Everyone that works for Strictly into words. Margaret’s first trip Elvis UK/Elvis Travel Service knows to Memphis with the Elvis that one of the reasons that people Travel Service team was in enjoy travelling with us is that they August of 2004 quickly get the chance to meet fabulous followed by the 70th birthday like-minded travel companions and tour in 2005. A lot of the tours make fantastic new friends within have specific anniversaries the Elvis family, so to acknowledge attached to them and this fact we’ve decided to put some Margaret has also been lucky of them in the spotlight. So if you’re enough to attend the 30th someone who receives the anniversary tour in 2007 and Newsletter but has yet to book a the 2009 tour that marked the holiday here is your opportunity to 40th anniversary of Elvis find out what sort of people travel with us and why. To kick us off, this edition of the newsletter features the very lovely Margaret Quinn: Margaret at the Graceland Gates I believe I was 7 or 8 when I first heard Elvis on the radio, Heartbreak Family when it's not quite as hectic! Hotel and ! And wow I also go to the Elvis Festival every that was it. I was in love! It was his September in Great Yarmouth. voice and the music was so different, I started doing the festival in 2005 so alive and exciting, like a shock of I think and have been every year electricity from head to foot. I didn't since ‘cos it's such a great week with know what he looked like, that was special guests and the Elvis disco the next ' earth shattering' Margaret meeting Glen D Hardin at the every day. experience! Wow! My mum used to Elvis Festival 2013 And for anyone still not take me to see the Elvis films at the convinced, what does Margaret give local cinema cos I wasn't old enough signing his contract to perform at the as her reasons for picking the Elvis to go on my own (she wouldn't have International Hotel in Las Vegas! Travel Service crew to travel with? let me anyway!) And when I was So each trip has something different I've always travelled with David getting a bit of pocket money for to offer the fans and it’s not difficult Wade's company and wouldn't go doing little jobs around the house, to see why super-fan Margaret has with any other, the trips are the best, I'd save up to buy his latest record, become addicted, as do all of us that you get looked after so well and it's even though I didn't have a record just can’t get enough of our King! like being in a big family. Everyone player! You could go to the record In fact Margaret has been on four I've met feels the same and I've made shop and ask to listen to the record in other tours to Memphis including the so many lovely friends. a booth even if you didn't have recent 80th birthday tour in January. So there you have it, Margaret enough money to buy it that day. But it’s not only Memphis where certainly has had some amazing Of course as soon as I had enough fans can meet and celebrate the life Elvis experiences, and we’re very money I'd buy it. Then I saw the Elvis and music of Elvis, so where else has grateful to her for taking time out magazine, I think it must have been Margaret been with the Elvis Travel from working, decorating and in WHSmiths and I'd buy that too. Service crew? looking after her two adorable The editor was Albert Hand and it I've also been on the trip to dogs to tell us about herself and was wonderful to read more about Germany. The first one was when we her Elvis holidays (as if any of us Elvis and see the wonderful photos. stayed in Luxembourg and then need an excuse to talk about Well that’s certainly a story I think visited Bad Nauheim and the second anything Elvis related!) and for many readers can relate to, and once time we stayed in Bad Nauheim those readers that have been we’re hooked on the King there’s no during the Elvis anniversary inspired by her experiences; what going back! Of course one of the weekend... I enjoyed every minute of are you waiting for? Book a trip things every fan wants to do is travel every trip and feel very fortunate to with Strictly Elvis UK/Elvis Travel to Memphis and visit Elvis’ home. For have been able to do them. I also go Service today and you could be those of us who have been lucky to the Spring Break, first it was in exchanging stories and indulging in enough to have been the experience Weymouth and now in Torquay and a fantastic Elvis experience with is not something you can easily put it's lovely to spend time with the Elvis fellow fans just like Margaret. Strictly Elvis UK 5 Strictly Elvis Newsletter No13v3_Strictly Elvis SumNL.qxd 31/03/2015 11:23 Page 6

ELVIS’ 80 TH BIRTHDAY TOUR, JANUARY 2015 BY MIKE DAVIS This was to be my first trip as a staff member of Strictly Elvis and also my first visit to Memphis since 1983 when I travelled there with my family so you can imagine how excited I felt. Here is an account of my experiences: Monday 5th No time to recover from yesterday’s flight – first stop today, GRACELAND! I was last here 32 years ago, and back then what stood opposite Graceland were a few local shops selling Elvis memorabilia and the Hickory Log Cafe. Graceland just had a number of temporary buildings which made up a gift shop/fast-food Sun story told by the staff was when we arrived: The Imperial’s Joe cafe/ticket office and was where the extremely informative. There was Moscheo was there, and we were mini-buses left to take you to the also a trip to the Circle G Ranch also entertained by Colin Paul again. house. Now there’s numerous gift which Elvis owned between 1967 A perfect end to a perfect evening. shops, 50’s diners, a ticket hall, the and 1969. It is now in a poor state of Thursday 8th planes, the cars and of course the repair and has been recently The big day: Elvis' 80th birthday. Heartbreak Hotel - quite a change! purchased by an organization who We were on the Graceland lawns at There were also changes in the aim to restore it and open it to the 9.30 am for the declaration of Elvis house: more rooms were open and public. The Elvis Travel Service had Presley Day by the Mayors of the carport gone. Also the organized for the new owners to Memphis and Shelby County, and racquetball court now shows more meet with the fans and explain their the cutting of the birthday cake by of Elvis' gold records and awards. plans. Everyone was delighted to the Presley family. It was lovely to The layout in the main room was a find out that Elvis' name will still be see most of the Presley family lot different as well, there was a lot strongly linked to the ranch. In the present and to hear Priscilla and Lisa more to take in. Outside, the back of evening a great time was had by all Marie give their thanks to the fans the house is unchanged. I walked to when we took over a Beale Street for their support. They then cut the the Meditation Garden where a few bar. Our very own UK singer Colin eight tier cake and the fans all fans had gathered, all having their Paul entertained us, singing from enjoyed a slice of it! own thoughts. For a while, I stood Elvis' repertoire. Colin was in And boy, did our chests puff out and remembered my late wife and I, excellent form and had many of the when Strictly Elvis were the only plus my two girls standing there on fans up and dancing. What a great organization mentioned by name a hot August night in 1982 paying end to the day! when everyone was welcomed to our respects. I had a real lump in my Wednesday 7th the event!!! throat I can tell you. Graceland is and A day free for the group to take Then, we were now off to Tupelo will always be the Mecca for Elvis advantage of the Shuttle Bus Service for another birthday celebration. fans from all over the world. Long which we run between the hotels, At the birthplace there was another may it continue. Graceland and Downtown Memphis cake cutting ceremony and slices Tuesday 6th - lots to see and do. This evening were handed out to the fans. We Another early start for our brought our group a private visit to also met people who had been sightseeing tour of Memphis: Vernon Presley's house which lies at friends with Elvis when he was including, amongst what seemed the rear of Graceland. A wonderful living in Tupelo. Much has changed like hundreds of sights were Humes buffet was prepared for us and a at the birthplace since my last visit, High School, Lauderdale Courts, the guided tour given. I was impressed but the shack he was born in was Elvis statues at Beale St and the with some of the wonderful just as I remembered, hard to Memphis Visitor Centre, and of paintings of Elvis on the walls. believe such a great man was born course the famous Sun Studios. We A number of us then went over to in these humble surroundings. We had a really interesting time there, Marlow's restaurant to see the then made our way to the famous it’s all very well presented and the evening out. We had two surprises hardware store where Elvis had his

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first guitar bought for him by Saturday 10th Mansion, film locations for famous Gladys. For the journey into Another full day free for a final films or TV series such as Miami downtown Tupelo we enjoyed the visit to Graceland or for more Vice and, of course, two venues now famous Police cavalcade shopping and exploring. where Elvis appeared, the Miami escort with two police-cars and This evening we attended a Beach Convention Center and the three police motorbikes concert at The Cannon Centre for Olympia Theatre. accompanying us through all the The Performing Arts, featuring The Tuesday 13th red lights! Memphis Symphony Orchestra and A truly wonderful day spent on Our tour of Tupelo, took in lots of Terry Mike Jeffrey. It was a wonderful the Everglades. Two separate huge sights including where Gladys occasion hearing Elvis' music being airboats took our party at great worked in a garment factory, the celebrated in a formal atmosphere of speed through the narrow streams schools that Elvis attended, and, a concert hall. It's years since I have which were bordered by high grass. amongst other things, the latest seen Terry Mike, he gives an excellent We were then taken into heavy statue of Elvis. It's a recreation of interpretation of Elvis' music. undergrowth to spot the crocodiles the famous picture of Elvis leaning It was a wonderful night, and a that were lying on the banks out to touch fans’ hands when he great way to finish celebrating the enjoying the hot sun. Once on shore appeared there in September 1956. Memphis part of the 80th Birthday we watched an expert handling We then visited the Tupelo Tourist Tour. All that remained was to pack small crocs and snakes. Centre where a hot cup of tea, for the next part of the holiday... It was yet another great day. biscuits and a warm welcome were 6 days in Miami Beach! Wednesday 14th supplied. On the way out of the Sunday 11th Another trip on the water was town we were shown The Stamps We left Memphis in temperatures organized for this afternoon: a cruise tour bus. We arrived back in of 6° and arrived in Miami to 25°! around the Biscayne Bay. Here we Memphis with no time to waste as I couldn’t get all my layers off saw fantastic views of Miami, and we were all off to an Elvis Birthday quickly enough. What a change! the amazing waterside properties Disco at the Holiday Inn, arranged Monday 12th where the rich and famous live. by EPE. Today brought a guided coach Thursday 15th Friday 9th tour of the city; it has great Today I took the group out to the Many of us had an early start as architecture made up of modern Miami Seaquarium. As the title we headed to Nashville, a trip I was skyscrapers and fantastic Art Deco indicates it’s an entertainment park really looking forward to. First stop hotels. I just fell in love with the displaying live dolphins, sharks, killer was the Ryman Auditorium, home place. We were fortunate enough to whales, manatee, sea lions, of the Grand Ole Opry radio show, have an excellent driver who kept crocodiles and turtles. We all had a then on to the Johnny Cash us informed about all the sites. We great time seeing the performing Museum and then the Country stopped off for pizza and then ice dolphins and huge killer whales. Music Hall of Fame to see Elvis’ cream, which included an ‘Elvis’ one: Great joy by some of our party was gold Cadillac. The ‘hit’ of the day peanut butter and banana! Our had when I got soaked after a tho’ was the visit to the famous tour featured many of the well dolphin had performed a "bomb" RCA Studio B. Here we saw the known sights of the Miami and at the edge of the pool!! On the way same instruments that were used Miami Beach such as swanky back to our hotel we had one last on many of the 200 plus recordings Coconut Grove, the historic ‘treat’ in store – a visit to the that Elvis made here. Another Biltmore Hotel, the South Beach Art luxurious Fontainebleau Hotel, fantastic day! Deco area, the Gianni Versace where Elvis performed with Frank Sinatra in March 1960 after coming out of the Army. And the cream cakes were on us! Friday 16th Our last day, and our early evening flight home. After some amazing views of flying low over London we arrived back at Heathrow at 10.00am. Everyone had had a wonderful holiday and a big ‘well done’ must go to the Elvis Travel Service’s wonderful organization, ensuring we were able to make the most of the time spent in the States and were able to enjoy all the extras that David arranged for us.

What a trip!

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FROM GRACELAND TO GREENWICH ELVIS AT THE O2 EXHIBITION BY LISEL SIMPSON I came back from my 3rd trip to Memphis in August of last year. Anyone who has ever been there knows that sitting on that red-eye flight back home is one of the most bittersweet experiences. Sweet because of all the wonderful memories that are travelling home with you, bitter because you’re leaving the King’s home far behind you. My main thought on that long flight back was, how quickly can I save up enough money to return? So imagine my joy when just a couple of months later the Strictly Elvis team announced an amazing event - Graceland was coming to the UK! Yes over 300 artefacts from Elvis’ home were being brought over from Graceland by EPE, with the help of course of our very own David Wade & Co. And not just for a couple of weeks either; it’s running until the end of August, which is more than I was lucky enough to be invited room dedicated to the Tupelo enough time to enable everyone to an exclusive preview showing years complete with such treasures a glimpse into Elvis’ private world. before it opened to the public, so, as the Presley family bible. The tour armed with notebook in hand, and moves from room to room excitement in heart I made my way documenting different stages in to the O2 in North Greenwich, Elvis’ life and career. There are THE KING™ London. Firstly I must point out several jumpsuits, cars and discs as HAS ARRIVED what a fantastic venue they have well as more intimate items such chosen. The O2 is vast; holding not as Elvis’ school report, employment only an enormous arena, but a agency application and some cinema complex, countless items of clothing belonging to restaurants and bars, bowling lanes Gladys. and huge exhibition venue. Each room is covered with Arriving at the exhibition photos some of them floor to entrance, past sky-high images of ceiling in length, you really are Elvis, you get the opportunity to cocooned in Elvis’ world pose for photos in front of a everywhere you turn. I have a backdrop depicting the ‘Graceland feeling many of the female fans Gates’ just as you do in Memphis. will be delighted with the room Then it’s time to experience Elvis’ dedicated entirely to the 68 world for real. Comeback Special – especially now The tour starts with an that the iconic black leather suit is THE LARGESTRGEST ELVISELLVISVIS EXHIBITIONEXHIBIT EVER IN EUROPE Opens 12th December 2014 extremely well made video currently on display. BookBook tickets: elvisattheo2.com | 08448 24 48 24 documentary giving the time line So what do the people that © EPE. GracelandGraceland and and its its marks marks ar aree trademarks ofof EPE. EPE. All All Rights Rights Reserved. Reserved. EL ELVISLVISVIS ™™, ELVISELLVISVIS PRESLEY ™ and THE KING areare trademarks of ABG EPE IP LLC. RRightsights of PublicityPublicity and and Persona Persona Rights Rights ar aree used withwith permission permission of of ABG ABG EPE EPE IP IP LLC. LLC. Photo © 2014 Elvis.com. of Elvis’ life; then you move on to a matter - the fans - think about the

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Overall, nothing can rival the amazing atmosphere and emotional connection you get when visiting Memphis and standing inside Elvis’ home, but this exhibit is without doubt the next best thing. A quick poll straw of the Strictly crew as to what were their favourite items on display produced a variety of results. For Neil Cameron it was the jumpsuit from the Houston Astrodome concert, Mike Davis was captivated by the historic Sun Studio disc of That’s All Right Mama, whilst David Wade and Carol Pugh both went for cars – the Lincoln Continental and the MG respectively. In fact I’m pretty sure Carol was looking around for the keys to drive the MG away! My personal favourite though has to be Elvis’ personal wallet with the photo of Lisa Marie in it. Such an intimate item, that we know he carried exhibit? Lynn May, who was at remarked on the volume of army everywhere with him. Graceland for the first time last memorabilia available to view. For those of you who’ve been to year described it as ‘the next best My personal thoughts about the Memphis, here is a chance to relive thing’ to Graceland and was very exhibition - after I’d stopped some wonderful memories. For impressed with the way the tour running around like a child in a those of you who’ve never been to was put together. Lifelong fan sweet shop - are that it’s extremely Elvis’ home, then the O2 allows you Kathleen O’Leary couldn’t believe well laid out and in many ways the chance of a glimpse into his the amount of items on display easier to navigate than the exhibits life. Either way, this is a must-see that she hadn’t seen before, at Graceland. The tour follows a exhibit for everyone, and maybe an despite having been to Memphis chronological order so you can opportunity to convert and twice now. In particular she experience Elvis’ life from birth educate some of your friends and onwards in an family! With ticket sales already orderly fashion. above the 100,000 mark it just There are some proves that Elvis can still draw in things on display massive crowds! The posters that have not proclaim that ‘The King Has been on show at Arrived’ – he certainly has! Graceland whenever I’ve Tickets and information been there, and available from: some that I didn’t get a clear www.elvisattheo2.com look at in Phone: 0844 824 4824 Graceland due to the crowds.

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BAD NAUHEIM AND FRIEDBERG THURSDAY 13 TH TO MONDAY 17 TH AUGUST 2015 Or a morning flight from UK to Day 4, Sunday 16th August Frankfurt arriving in the early A morning visit to Johannisberg afternoon. Transfer to Bad hilltop. As we drive up the twisting Nauheim and your hotel. road to the summit you’ll see the surrounding woods where Elvis took Day 2, Friday 14th August part in military maneuvers. Once we Breakfast will be served daily in reach the top you’ll see spectacular your hotel. Join your Elvis Travel views over Bad Nauheim and the Service tour managers for a surrounding countryside. On a clear morning guided walking tour day it’s even possible to make out Ray of Bad Nauheim. As with all Barracks in the distance! There’ll be Elvis Travel Service tours we time to enjoy a coffee in the café, have meticulously researched used by Elvis where on one occasion the Elvis history of this beautiful he was asked to sign a tablecloth for a spa town so that we’ll show you fan, but before he could hand it over more Elvis sites than you’ll see the owner of the café snatched away on any other tour, the hotel and and promptly washed it! Do house where he lived, where he remember to try the Apple Strudel, shopped, ate, relaxed and the one of the café’s specialities - and a places where some of the most particular favourite of Elvis’. iconic photo’s of Elvis during Remainder of the day to relax in the this time were taken, as well as comfort of the hotel, enjoy the An exclusive holiday by air or the lovely monument that the town activities of the Elvis Festival or luxury coach and ferry to Bad erected to him on Elvis Presley Platz. further exploration of Bad Nauheim. Nauheim and Friedberg, Germany The afternoon and evening are at This evening we’ll hold a get together to join with Elvis fans from leisure to relax, explore further or for the group as a last night throughout Europe to enjoy the events taking place as part celebration of our time here. commemorate the 38th of the Elvis Festival which is organised Anniversary. by the local tourist office and Fan Day 5, Monday 17th August Club. There will be a whole array of Time to say ‘Auf Wiedersehen’ to Bad Join us for a fabulous extra-long activities and events (a schedule will Nauheim. Morning departures to weekend break to Bad Nauheim be sent to you once they are finalised) Frankfurt for flights arriving back into where Elvis lived whilst stationed which typically include a parade of the UK in the early afternoon and for in the US Army at the nearby Ray classic cars, fan get-togethers, the coach departure to connect with Barracks in Friedberg. Each August concerts, memorabilia dealers and the early evening ferry arriving back this beautiful spa town goes crazy for much more. As well as that the whole into London in the mid evening. Elvis (which sounds perfect for us!) town welcomes Elvis fans with many with an Elvis Festival honouring the of the shops and bars adopting an INCLUDED IN THE PRICE life and legacy of the King. It’s a Elvis theme. • Return Flights from London to fabulous place to spend the Frankfurt or Return coach travel Anniversary period and the town Day 3, Saturday 15th August from London including cross itself has many places which are Morning visit to Friedberg. En-route Channel ferry virtually unchanged since Elvis’ time we’ll stop in the village of Steinfurth there - making for some great photo (famous throughout Germany for its • Transfers and coach travel as per opportunities! roses) where Elvis and his platoon the itinerary So come and join us as we erected a war memorial. Once we • 4 nights hotel accommodation explore Elvis’ Germany. arrive in Friedberg, we’ll see the site of Breakfast each day in Bad Nauheim You’ll love it! Ray Barracks the US Army Base where • Elvis was stationed. There’ll also be • Guided walking tour of Bad Nauheim Day 1, Thursday 13th August 2015 time to explore this delightful small Morning departure from London’s town, and see the Elvis memorial • Visit to Friedberg Victoria Coach Station for the journey plaque in the centre, visiting shops • Visit to Johannisberg Hilltop by coach and the Dover-Calais ferry that Elvis would’ve used, or to take a Hotel taxes to Bad Nauheim arriving in the late tour of the historic castle. Keep an eye • evening. There will be non-stop Elvis out also for the genuine red British • Driver gratuities movies and music on the coach and telephone box in the town too! • The services of an experienced various refreshment stops. Afternoon and evening at leisure. Elvis Travel Service Tour Manager 10 Strictl y Elvi s UK Strictly Elvis Newsletter No13v3_Strictly Elvis SumNL.qxd 31/03/2015 11:23 Page 11

Tour Prices (per person) appropriate box on Rosenau Hotel the Reservation By Coach and Ferry: Single £518 Form. Please note Double £418 that there is no By Air: Single £648 Double £548 surcharge Dolce Hotel applicable to By Coach and Ferry: Single £848 payment by Debit Double £618 Card but a 2.7% supplement will be By Air: Single £978 Double £748 Passports and Visas charged on all Credit Card payments Triple/family rooms A valid Passport issued by a member to cover the additional costs incurred. may be available on request. state of the European Union is required for this tour. Visas are not required by Flights British citizens visiting Germany. Whilst the Air tour price is based on Not Included flying from London with British Lunches or dinners, drinks and Climate and Clothing Airways or Lufthansa, persons wishing personal items such as laundry, Mid-summer in central Europe can be to fly from Manchester, Birmingham, phone calls etc. very hot so expect temperatures in Glasgow or any of the regional the 80’s and 90’s. We recommend airports are welcome to do so. Travel Insurance lightweight casual clothing (none of Please contact Europe as you like it It is mandatory that all passengers the events require anything formal) on 020 8742 8299 for supplementary have sufficient comprehensive but take along a sweater or jacket for costs and more information. travel insurance. If you need any cooler evenings. Luggage weight The tour price is based on the air assistance in arranging this please is limited to 50lbs per person - the fare as of 5th November 2014 and is call us on Europe as you like it equivalent of one large suitcase, plus subject to fluctuation. Any increase on 020 8742 8299 who will be one item of hand luggage. (or decrease) will be advised happy to help. to you at the time of booking. Payments and Travel Documents Health/Special Needs Upon receipt of your deposit (and Telephone Enquiries No vaccinations or inoculations obviously subject to places being If you have any queries regarding this are required for British citizens. available) you will be sent a tour please don’t hesitate to give the The Department of Health produces Confirmation-Invoice. Payment of the Elvis Travel Service a call on 01473 a ‘Health Advice for Travellers’ balance is due not later than 72 days 621 564 . Telephone bookings can be booklet (T6) available from your Post prior to departure. Cheques should be made but must be followed up with a Office or by phoning 0800 555 777. made payable to Europe as you like completed Reservation Form and We are happy to welcome it . Approximately 14 days prior to the deposit within 5 working days. passengers with special needs holiday you will receive a Tour Wallet wherever appropriate arrangements containing your Final Itinerary and How to Book can be made - be they for dietary Tour Joining Instructions, baggage Simply phone the Elvis Travel Service needs or adapted rooms. Please note tags and a Souvenir Lanyard/Pass. office where our staff will be happy to though that we can only request take your booking by phone. such facilities if we know of your Payment by Debit/Credit Card Telephone : 01473 621 564 requirements well in advance so We are pleased to accept payment by please give us full details on the Debit or Credit Card for all, or part, of or email : [email protected] requested Reservation Form. your holiday cost - just complete the Website: www.strictlyelvis.net

Got a spare bed? Following our ‘plea’ to find someone However she’d still love to see a bit more to share with our Argentinian friend of the UK so if you live elsewhere in the UK Ester Blajer on the Bad Nauheim and and have the time and the room to put up Elvis Festival holidays Ester for a few days towards the end of she is now ‘sorted’ for those August then she’d really appreciate it. plus she’s been offered accommodation near London so that she can visit More details from the Strictly office on Elvis at the O2 and see the sights. 01473 621 564

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PRISCILLA REIGNS IN MANCHESTER (OH YES SHE DOES!) BY CAROL PUGH David Wade and I had an way to the centre circle in readiness opportunity to meet Priscilla for curtain up and we didn't have to Presley in Memphis last August and wait long for Priscilla to make her part of the conversation included entrance to huge applause. her anticipation at returning to the The next two hours were filled with UK and redeeming her role as the some great songs including Elvis' Wicked Queen in Snow White and King Creole hit ‘Trouble’, sparkling ‘Memphis Maria’ with Priscilla the Seven Dwarfs. Priscilla admitted costumes, a live band, dazzling dance questions; in fact nothing was too that during her first pantomime routines and lots of that British sense much trouble for her. Before she left she hadn't fully understood the of humour that Priscilla had eluded she thanked David and the Strictly tradition of panto or the British to. Priscilla's timing was excellent team for their on-going support and sense of humour but that quickly proving that her days co-starring with the opportunity to meet so many changed and she now loves our Leslie Nielsen in the Naked Gun film lovely people; and clutching a large slapstick, dry wit and innuendo series hadn't gone to waste. bouquet of flowers in both hands that’s the hallmark of pantomime. The curtain fell and soon the she was gone. Priscilla was so pleased when we group made their way to the private As we all made our way to TGI informed her that some of the Strictly Strictly Elvis after-show party but Friday’s restaurant to finish the Elvis team accompanied by a large what the group was unaware of was evening off with some traditional group of Elvis fans would be there to that Priscilla had promised to join us Southern Fayre accompanied support her on the first weekend of for what turned out to be a night by songs, the opening. Fast forward to Saturday 6th never to be forgotten. conversation turned to what a star December as we all gathered in the Fresh out of stage costume and Priscilla really was. From the Wicked lobby of the Opera House in obviously tired from a strenuous Witch in her castle to Manchester to fulfil our promise. performance she joined us making who successfully opened the doors Armed with programmes and the sure that she spoke with everyone, of Elvis' own Castle - Graceland, obligatory flashing light stick (well it posed for photos, signed thus ensuring that we all keep on was a panto after all!) we made our programmes and answered enjoying this particular Fairytale.

With the Elvis Festival fast Yes that's right - we're approaching we’re thinking of going to start the festive new and different activities and season a whole 3 months events to include in the early! There will be Elvis programme, but don’t worry Christmas music, we’ll be keeping all of the old decorations and lots more favourites that have made the including a special idea event such a hit over the last to help a local charity. 35 years. One of which is So get thinking and undoubtedly our Fancy Dress let’s dress up and start night. Over the years we’ve had out Festive frolics early some fabulous nights with themes at the 2015 Elvis Festival. ranging from the Wild West and We want to see everyone Beachwear to James Bond and join in so even if you Halloween plus everything don’t want to dress up in-between. It’s always a highlight then just wear your best of the Festival week with some (or should that be worst!) amazing costumes being entered Christmas jumper! into the Fancy Dress parade To book for this year’s competition. And this year’s will Elvis Festival (and it's be no exception. So to get word selling fast) call out early our theme for this year Vauxhall Holiday Park will be...... Christmas!! on 01493 857231 .

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Nottinghamshire Elvis in Nottinghamshire Andy Cox, Phone: 07838 161784 Email: [email protected] ELVIS Regular Elvis Disco’s - contact Andy for latest information. Northamptonshire Elvis in Northants around Mark & Bernie Herbert, 1 Woodside Green, Kings Heath, Northampton, NN5 7HU Phone: 01604 753 778 the Elvis Video-Disco, Saturday 13th June 7:30pm until midnight at the Ex-Serviceman’s club, 47 Sheep Street, UK Northampton, NN1 2NE. Oxfordshire Elvis Presley Fan Club – Oxford Jenny de Fraine, ‘Aloha’, 11 Meadow View Road, These pages are available for all Elvis Fan Clubs to publicise Kennington, Oxford, OX1 4QU their events free of charge. To be included in the next issue please forward contact details for the Fan Club together Phone: 01865 735 264 with details of any forthcoming events. Email: [email protected] Meetings monthly in members homes and social events throughout the year.

ENGLAND Buckinghamshire Elvis Now Lynne Brooker, 4 Taverners Green Close, Wickford, London Capital Elvis Essex, SS12 9RQ John Talbot, 106 Hawbeck Road, Gillingham, Phone: 01268 763 952 Kent, ME8 9UY Email: [email protected] Phone: 07715 968 259 Elvis Party Night at the Hoop and Toy. 34 Thurloe Place, Buckinghamshire Elvis in Bucks Kensington, SW7 2HQ, 2nd May and 6th June. The All Elvis Big Screen Disco. The Railway Club, Coxhill Way, Southcourt, Aylesbury, HP21 8HH. Hertfordshire Capital Elvis/Herts Branch £5 on the door. Saturday April 18th 7:30pm. Tony Dobb, 15 Princes Close, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 1JS Tyne & Wear Phone: 07715 968 259 Jim Mann, 19 Tanfield Road, Wrekenton, Gateshead, Email: [email protected] Tyne & Wear, NE9 7AX Phone: 07936 518 319 Essex Elvis in Essex Organisation Email: [email protected] Mike Davis, 11 Branta Fields, Hoo, Rochester, 100% Elvis Disco Thursday 28th May FREE Admission. Kent, ME3 9BF Springbank Club, Condercum Road, Newcastle Upon Phone: 07878 914 033 Tyne, NE4 8XJ Elvis Disco. Saturday 18th April and Saturday 13th June from 7:30pm at The Compasses, 141 Broomfield Road, Bedfordshire Chelmsford, CM1 1RY. Bill Hyde Phone: 07943 395 655 Also see ad for ‘Elvis in the Cathedral’ on following page. Elvis Disco Saturdays 17th April, 22nd May, 26th June and 24th July at St Joseph’s Social Club, Gardenia Cambridgeshire Elvis in Cambridge Avenue, Luton, LU3 2NS. Ian Gray, Kings College Cambridge, CB2 1ST Email: [email protected] North Yorkshire The King at the Coast Neil & Cynthia Hardisty, 34 Main Street Lancashire East Ayton, Scarborough, N. Yorks, YO13 9HL John Meller, 26 Derby Road, Accrington, BB5 1BP Phone: 07912 442 301 Yorkshire Memphis King Email: [email protected] June Clark (Club Secretary), 60 Northcote Drive, (or Duncan Jeffrey on 07534 695 500) Leeds, LS11 6NH

Lincolnshire Lincoln Elvis Sue Toyne, 18 Capper Avenue, Hemswell Cliff, Gainsborough, Lincs, DN21 5XS Phone: 01427 668 805 Find us on Twitter at: and on Facebook at: @ElvisTravel Elvis Travel Service/Strictly Elvis Email: [email protected]

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IRELAND SCOTLAND

Ireland Elvis Social Club Glasgow The Elvis Touch John Kavanagh, 43 Bernard Curtis House, Jane Boyce (Club Leader) Bluebell, Dublin 12, Ireland 23 Corpach Place, Easterhouse, Glasgow, G34 0DD Holding regular “Elvis Social Nights” and major charity Phone: 07851 388440 extravaganzas. www.elvissocialclub.net For regular Email: [email protected] updates, tune to: “Elvis Memories” radio show, Linda and Paul Downie (Secretary & DJ/PR) Dublin City FM 103.2fm Sundays 6pm - 7pm. 95 Gottries Road, Harbourside, Irvine, KA12 8QH Tune in on-line www.dublincityfm.ie Phone: 07947 659144 Email: [email protected] Fridays 24th April and 29th May at Bacchus, NORTHERN IRELAND 80 Glassford Street, Glasgow, G1 1UR. £4 members, £5 non-members. Northern Ireland OEPFC of Northern Ireland Janet Baxter, 4 Inver Court, Holywood Road, Falkirk Elvis Central Belfast, BT4 1RS Lesley Iannarelli, 4 Cleekim Drive, Phone: 07867 967 007 Edinburgh, EH15 3QP Email: [email protected] Phone: 07905 798 016 Elvis disco and on the big screen. Email: [email protected] First Friday of every month 8:00pm to midnight at Elvis Party Night - 2nd Saturday each month at RAOB (BUFFS) Club, 17 Church Street, Belfast BT1 1PG Camelon Bowling Club, Main Street, Camelon. (opposite St. Anne’s Cathedral). Admission £5 Edinburgh Edinburgh Elvis WALES Paul Sayers, 9-4 West Pilton Avenue, Edinburgh, EH4 4BX Wales Elvis in Wales Phone: 07926 896151 Carol Pugh Phone: 07785 107 814 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Need transport for the Elvis Spring Break or the Aberdeen Elvis in Aberdeen Elvis Festival from South Wales? Richard Stables, 3 William Mackie Crescent, Contact Carol for details of coach or minibus seats. Stonehaven, Aberdeen, AB39 2PR Regrettably owing to pressure of work (in my ‘day job’!) Phone: 01569 760095 as well as the time taken up by my role within Strictly Email: aberdeen@-a-presley.com Elvis UK, I’m now having to look for someone to help with (and eventually take over) the running of Elvis in Wales. Strathclyde Forever Elvis Fan Club If you are a dedicated Elvis (not ETA) fan, diplomatic and Margaret Colhoun, 77 MacArthur Wynd, a good organizer and are interested in this role please Cambuslang, Glasgow, G72 7GB contact me on the number/email above for more details. Phone: 07757 047 058

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(Ad for Elvis Spring Break) by the Paul Hayes Collection and by the ever-popular Rockin’ Dave Riley Join the fun with TV Celebrity Paul plus we’ll have our own all-Elvis Hayes on the Elvis Spring Break Disco with DJ Mark Monaghan as well as Elvis on the big screen. Just (Reduced down version of the £2C36 aperl ple rstoon ind a atwiyn o ro donub le 01473 621 564 Brochure cover) room (discounts for 3 and 4 bedded rooms) inclusive of your Fancy a long-weekend break in accommodation for 3 nights, Join the fun with the lovely English Riviera resort of breakfast and dinner daily and all Torquay, staying a a superb hotel, the entertainment. If you’ve never TV Celebrity enjoying great food, fine service and attended a Spring Break then do lots and lots of Elvis. The live yourself a HUGE favour and join us Paul Hayes ente2rtainmen0t this yea115r is prov5 ided for this one – you’ll love it! on the Elvis 201515 Spring Break Fancy a long-weekend break in the lovely English Riviera resort of Torquay, staying a a superb hotel, enjoying great food, fine service and lots and lots of Elvis. The live entertainment this year is provided by the Paul Hayes Collection and by the ever popular Rockin’ Dave Riley plus we’ll have our own all-Elvis Disco with DJ Mark Monaghan as well as Elvis on the big screen. Just £236 per person in a twin or double room (discounts for 3 and 4 bedded rooms) inclusive of your accommodation for 3 nights, breakfast and dinner daily and all the entertainment. If you’ve never attended a Spring Break then do yourself a HUGE favour and join us for this one – you’ll love it! THE VICTORIA HOTEL TORQUAY Friday 15th to Monday 18th Rockin’ Dave Riley Paul Hayes Collection May 2015