I have a big problem with this

[vivaelvis]

Someone tell me why The Beatles get this fancy state-of-the-art facility to tell their story and all EPE has ever done for Elvis is turn a small strip mall into a money pit?

http://hattersgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/lpool-dock.jpg

http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1052/5159749221_81953c0a57_z.jpg

It's been 30 years since Graceland opened and all we as fans who have kept them in business has ever gotten is the above. (n)

I have a serious problem with this. It's time for them to start spending some of that $60 million a year they're making on the legacy and not those **** ducks.:angry::angry::angry:

[josephinebeau]

True story, I would like to see the financial statements over the last 35 years and see where the money has gone. It sure has not gone to creating a better experience in Memphis, I know they had to wait on the city to approve some measures, but it is time to get moving. If I was Lisa Marie I would not let anyone or thing stand in my way of protecting, and enhancing my father's legacy. Just sayin.

[vivaelvis]

True story, I would like to see the financial statements over the last 35 years and see where the money has gone. It sure has not gone to creating a better experience in Memphis, I know they had to wait on the city to approve some measures, but it is time to get moving. If I was Lisa Marie I would not let anyone or thing stand in my way of protecting, and enhancing my father's legacy. Just sayin.

I read somewhere that back in their first full year that EPE made over $12 million in 1983 of revenue. That would be equivalent to around $30 million in 2012. And they have never had a non profit year to date. That would mean that they have made more than $450 million in the past 30 years. They have spent only around $10 million combined, including $5 million on the Heartbreak Hotel purchase and renovation and $1 million back in 1983 to revamp the strip mall into the Plaza. The most money they ever spent on upgrades at the Plaza was for the Automobile Museum which cost around $3 million to build a 15,000 sf building.

I'm willing to bet that most of the money went to the Church Of Scientology. The word now is that Lisa Marie has left the church and is slamming it in her new song So Long and calls it fake.

I understand that they have planned an overhaul and are still planning to eventually build a massive state-of-the-art new visitor center, but that should have been done long before Sillerman bought the company back in 2005. I mean, my God! They have had 30 years and the above picture is all they have to show for it. Unreal!

I have noticed also that only 20% of overall visitors are returnees. That means that 80% of overall visitors do NOT return. And I don't blame them.

[boquo2]

Good point, though Graceland itself needs to remain the `mecca' for Elvis fans.

[josephinebeau]

"The word now is that Lisa Marie has left the church and is slamming it in her new song So Long and calls it fake."

If that is true then thank God, I don't think it is cool to bash other's beliefs but there is something very shady about their organization.
Hopefully she can be influenced more positively by her father's faith. :D

[King Of The Whole World]

I remember reading that Elvis once visited the Scientology Church and said that all they wanted was money. That it was just a place to bring in celebrities and rich people to take their money. I guess she should have listened to her dad and then they wouldn't have taken her.

They do need to remodel the buildings around there for sure. They need a nice big area to rest (cool off) and eat during Elvis week, it is so hot in August.

[KPM]

Elvis never asked for a state of the art museum, he never asked for anything to be done to honor him or his accomplishments in his will-that is the key to your question.......one I have pointed out many many times when you bring up things like this.
Elvis asked for money to be made-for his daughter-with no preconditions of any kind.
He did not ask that "Graceland never be opened to the public for ticket sales".....he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
He did not ask that "State of the art museums be opened in the future".............he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
He did not ask fans to second guess his decisions in his will for his daughter.......he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
He did not say do not merchandise my image and likeness...............................he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
He did not ban any certain approach to merchandising him image......................he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
He did not leave a detailed plan of any kind to protect the estate.....................he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
I could go on and on with the things Elvis did not ask to be done after his death but it boils down to that one phrase I just used over
and over "He basically said protect my estate for my daughter"
Could Elvis have had preconditions to his will such as:
"No tasteless merchandising"
"Do not open Graceland to the public"
"Build a musuem to honor my career and accomplishments at all costs"
"Listen to my fans and their wishes-above my ideas for my daughters future"
"Rather than open Graceland -just let the estate collapse and thats a better ending to my life"
etc......etc......etc........ad infinitem.

Why didn't Elvis have a larger framework for what he wanted done with his estate after he died?
Because all that mattered to him was that Lisa was well taken care of forever......plain and simple.
He "may" have also realised that he did not manage money well, he had sold 90 percent of his catalogue to RCA and he did not own his films so income after he had died would mainly rest with merchandising and image.....or perhaps his lawyer pointed these facts out to him while preparing the will. A lawyer will always ask his clients in such matters-what is your goal with the will what are your wishes????
Elvis made it clear in no uncertain terms basically protect my estate for my daughter!
I can not and will not jump on or villainize EPE or Lisa because Elvis left such a simple request that did not worry more about we fans and less about his prime concern.
Talk about second guessing last wishes......for some EPE are the lowest of low-but they are doing what Elvis asked-his wishes not ours!

[KPM]

Whats the background to the Beatles state of the art facility?
One that tells us-who built it, how much did it cost, how long in developement, who owns it, what ticket prices are, are any of the Beatles personally financially involved, what was the extent of govenrnment involvement (grants, tax breaks, zoning problems, public money used etc.....)


Graceland became the center of everything Elvis after he died.......where would the center of everything Beatles be?
4 separate individuals, all with many homes locationed around the world. Liverpool was the roots of the Beatles, but not any certain location, not any certain home where all 4 lived together until death. So a single large facility for "tourists" to honor the Beatles makes a lot of sense and it will make someone a lot of money-it will be in essence a "Money Pit"
Graceland is in itself a museum-perhaps not ideally built, perhaps not ideally located for tourism but thats where Elvis lived and died most of his adult life.

[vivaelvis]

Elvis never asked for a state of the art museum, he never asked for anything to be done to honor him or his accomplishments in his will-that is the key to your question.......one I have pointed out many many times when you bring up things like this.
Elvis asked for money to be made-for his daughter-with no preconditions of any kind.
He did not ask that "Graceland never be opened to the public for ticket sales".....he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
He did not ask that "State of the art museums be opened in the future".............he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
He did not ask fans to second guess his decisions in his will for his daughter.......he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
He did not say do not merchandise my image and likeness...............................he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
He did not ban any certain approach to merchandising him image......................he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
He did not leave a detailed plan of any kind to protect the estate.....................he basically said protect my estate for my daughter.
I could go on and on with the things Elvis did not ask to be done after his death but it boils down to that one phrase I just used over
and over "He basically said protect my estate for my daughter"
Could Elvis have had preconditions to his will such as:
"No tasteless merchandising"
"Do not open Graceland to the public"
"Build a musuem to honor my career and accomplishments at all costs"
"Listen to my fans and their wishes-above my ideas for my daughters future"
"Rather than open Graceland -just let the estate collapse and thats a better ending to my life"
etc......etc......etc........ad infinitem.

Why didn't Elvis have a larger framework for what he wanted done with his estate after he died?
Because all that mattered to him was that Lisa was well taken care of forever......plain and simple.
He "may" have also realised that he did not manage money well, he had sold 90 percent of his catalogue to RCA and he did not own his films so income after he had died would mainly rest with merchandising and image.....or perhaps his lawyer pointed these facts out to him while preparing the will. A lawyer will always ask his clients in such matters-what is your goal with the will what are your wishes????
Elvis made it clear in no uncertain terms basically protect my estate for my daughter!
I can not and will not jump on or villainize EPE or Lisa because Elvis left such a simple request that did not worry more about we fans and less about his prime concern.
Talk about second guessing last wishes......for some EPE are the lowest of low-but they are doing what Elvis asked-his wishes not ours!

None of that has any relation to my point in this post. My point and argument was that after all these years that Graceland has been opened that they have put very little into upgrades and expansion, considering what they make annually and over a 30-year period of time. My post had nothing to do with what Elvis wanted or didn't want. But we as fans DO deserve much more than we are given by the estate when we visit and spend our hard earned money on their attraction. That cannot be debated. They make visitors sit in freezing cold or hot steamy August weather under an open air pavilion waiting for a tour bus to carry them over to the mansion. They are very fortunate that the fans have continued to want to go through that for 30 years and counting. They should invest more into their facilities instead of their merchandise, They would actually end up profiting more as more visitors would come. But they have no respect for those who pay their bills and give them nice livings that we only dream of having. Half the time fans can't even visit the planes when it's raining or it might be scorching hot outside to stand in a line to walk up inside of them. They should have invested a long time ago into a new center where they could put PEOPLE indoors and the planes indoors as well. Ken, I understand your argument, but there's no excuse whatsoever for the way they have treated the fans and Elvis' legacy over the years.

Sure, Graceland never had to open in the first place and we should all be happy that we've had the chance to see it. But that'
s beside the point. If you're going to run a business and refuse to put money into it, then don't expect it to grow much, if at all. EPE and Graceland could be on par with Disney Corporations as a business if they had invested into other things over the years instead into tacky cheap looking merchandise. (n)

Like him or not, at least Sillerman showed that he cared enough to plan a massive overhaul to make visitors WANT to come back year after year. He saw that change IS needed. It's sad that it took an outsider to see this decades after the grand opening.

BTW, prior to this year, Graceland's attendance has been at a long time low. I wonder why? We know why. Poor neighborhood and surrounding areas, lack of needed upgraded facilities (such as a new hotel and visitor's center) and broken promises.

[Tommy]

I am glad to see this debate going on. (y) Very interesting stuff. (y)

[vivaelvis]

Whats the background to the Beatles state of the art facility?
One that tells us-who built it, how much did it cost, how long in developement, who owns it, what ticket prices are, are any of the Beatles personally financially involved, what was the extent of govenrnment involvement (grants, tax breaks, zoning problems, public money used etc.....)


Graceland became the center of everything Elvis after he died.......where would the center of everything Beatles be?
4 separate individuals, all with many homes locationed around the world. Liverpool was the roots of the Beatles, but not any certain location, not any certain home where all 4 lived together until death. So a single large facility for "tourists" to honor the Beatles makes a lot of sense and it will make someone a lot of money-it will be in essence a "Money Pit"
Graceland is in itself a museum-perhaps not ideally built, perhaps not ideally located for tourism but thats where Elvis lived and died most of his adult life.

I don't have the time to spend at the moment researching the cost and funding for their museum in Liverpool as I am too curious as to what it was, but here's a link to a recent plan for a $50 million expansion to it. EPE can't even invest a few million into a decent museum to tell the Elvis story. They could easily build a 25,000 square foot facility to the north, adjacent to the Graceland property next to the wedding chapel for about $5-10 million. The current Sincerely Elvis museum at the Plaza is only 4,000 square feet in size.

http://www.liverpool.com/news/bank-funds-500-000-beatles-museum-expansion-plan.html

[KPM]

None of that has any relation to my point in this post. My point and argument was that after all these years that Graceland has been opened that they have put very little into upgrades and expansion, considering what they make annually and over a 30-year period of time. My post had nothing to do with what Elvis wanted or didn't want. But we as fans DO deserve much more than we are given by the estate when we visit and spend our hard earned money on their attraction. That cannot be debated. They make visitors sit in freezing cold or hot steamy August weather under an open air pavilion waiting for a tour bus to carry them over to the mansion. They are very fortunate that the fans have continued to want to go through that for 30 years and counting. They should invest more into their facilities instead of their merchandise, They would actually end up profiting more as more visitors would come. But they have no respect for those who pay their bills and give them nice livings that we only dream of having. Half the time fans can't even visit the planes when it's raining or it might be scorching hot outside to stand in a line to walk up inside of them. They should have invested a long time ago into a new center where they could put PEOPLE indoors and the planes indoors as well. Ken, I understand your argument, but there's no excuse whatsoever for the way they have treated the fans and Elvis' legacy over the years.

Sure, Graceland never had to open in the first place and we should all be happy that we've had the chance to see it. But that'
s beside the point. If you're going to run a business and refuse to put money into it, then don't expect it to grow much, if at all. EPE and Graceland could be on par with Disney Corporations as a business if they had invested into other things over the years instead into tacky cheap looking merchandise. (n)

Like him or not, at least Sillerman showed that he cared enough to plan a massive overhaul to make visitors WANT to come back year after year. He saw that change IS needed. It's sad that it took an outsider to see this decades after the grand opening.

BTW, prior to this year, Graceland's attendance has been at a long time low. I wonder why? We know why. Poor neighborhood and surrounding areas, lack of needed upgraded facilities (such as a new hotel and visitor's center) and broken promises.
That is such a shame-Elvis' wishes and you think they should not be a factor???
The only reason their is an EPE is because of Elvis Presleys last will and testiment-fact.... no debate.... no if ans or buts.
The current EPE is in existence solely because of legal instructions that had to be carried out as Elvis stipulated-it is a major point-it is the reason for anything and everything since Elvis died in connection with Graceland, Lisa, and his image.
Instead of thanking EPE/Lisa, they get slammed, anything they do is downgraded as not enough, not to a standard proclaimed by others, not fair, not respectful..........isnt that the case-isnt that with your argument? If Elvis's will is an indication of what he wanted I would dare say Elvis is much happier that some fans-Lisa is rich beyond his wildest wishes so pardon me If I see that as a PLUS!
It was after all Elvis's life, his career, his home, his image...........and his daughter.
I recall not long ago I mentioned that this seemed to be your real fire-complaining about what EPE has not done, what EPE should do, and what they have done wrong.

Heres a link to a retrospective of the history of EPE since Elvis died, quite a few updates and additions mentioned all cost money......planes bought and renovated, car museum, buying strip malls, renovating those, raquetball court renovation for hall of gold, hotel, restaurant, charitable foundation set up (hope thats okay)finding and buying back Elvis autos, jewelry, costumes, property etc...... and many that are unmentioned have taken place.
The Sillerman deal was suppose to be that next big step.....and now Apollo......EPE/Lisa proclaimed they wanted to go further but admitted they needed the "expertise" of an outside entity-boy thats really worked out.
Its not just enough to have grand visions, you have to follow thru and stick to a plan....not jump from point to point, idea to idea.........and let your new ideas keep you from acting till all you have is the ideas (indeed he is not calling the shots anymore)
Tourism is at an all time low in the world (as I have pointed out several times) not just for Graceland.
Although Graceland is still the most visited private home in America.
EPE has spent money-has made improvements, has worked to make the visits better-just not on par with what "YOU" want.
I have ofter wondered what it is that makes the Graceland renovation issue so important to you........its your number one issue.
The number one issue for me concerning Elvis is his talent and charisma-his accomplishments as an artist-those are things that do not depend on renovations-because they will exist as long as his voice and performances are available.
If I was Lisa-I would close it up..... she will never win, EPE will never win.... the will put them in the position of "villains" and yet they have fullfilled what what they were "legally bound to do" They did not own the music, they did not own the films......yet they succeeded.
Shame more people do not realise how easily it could have went the other way.

http://www.enotes.com/elvis-presley-enterprises-inc-reference/elvis-presley-enterprises-inc

[KPM]

I don't have the time to spend at the moment researching the cost and funding for their museum in Liverpool as I am too curious as to what it was, but here's a link to a recent plan for a $50 million expansion to it. EPE can't even invest a few million into a decent museum to tell the Elvis story. They could easily build a 25,000 square foot facility to the north, adjacent to the Graceland property next to the wedding chapel for about $5-10 million. The current Sincerely Elvis museum at the Plaza is only 4,000 square feet in size.

http://www.liverpool.com/news/bank-funds-500-000-beatles-museum-expansion-plan.html
...... who developed the project, who spent the money, where the money came from, how the government aided in the plans with tax breaks or grants, how much tickets cost, how long it was in developement......it just did not come into existence because Beatle fans wanted it-someone is making money from this place-and it cost money time and thought to get it built.
If its a government museum-thats one thing, if its private owned that is another, it the surviving Beatles and families of the deceased ones are invovled that another angle that tells some of the "how of this museum"
I do know that no ones last will in testiment seems to have started the plan for this facility, no legal necessity, no make or break angle was involved.
Apples and oranges (I'll let the Beatles be Apples for obvious reasons)

[KPM]

I am glad to see this debate going on. (y) Very interesting stuff. (y)
thanks Tommy.(y)
I really understand the idea that things must be updated, they must have some degree of upkeep and expansion in order to stay fresh... but it is unfair IMO to label EPE as not having spent money, not having made efforts to do those things......and it should always be remembered that until Lisa officially took over her the estate-EPE was bound by its legal mission-to protect and grow the estate-without the music nor movies.
Sure EPE has made mistakes but they have done very very well for Lisa, which was their prime mission.

[Tommy]

Wonderful to see this great debate..........thank you all. (y)

[King Of The Whole World]

To some degree you could say that if they don't rebuild things around Graceland the attraction could lose a lot of tourism. So that would be protecting Lisa's future even though she probably has enough money to last her and her kid’s future. They can do whatever they want to do with their money but there could become a time that they lose people coming to Graceland over conditions, and then it might be to late.

[vivaelvis]

To some degree you could say that if they don't rebuild things around Graceland the attraction could lose a lot of tourism. So that would be protecting Lisa's future even though she probably has enough money to last her and her kid’s future. They can do whatever they want to do with their money but there could become a time that they lose people coming to Graceland over conditions, and then it might be to late.

Good point. Let me add that even though Lisa owns the estate including the archives and planes, she cannot shut down Graceland as it's a business that would affect the local economy. She would get sued if she tried to and most likely lose. Therefor the owners which would be CKX and Apollo would be the ones to suffer financially. Apollo could afford it but CKX could not.

[rocknroll]

Scientology fake??? Noooooooooo!

Sillerman is Satan. All Elvis meant to him was dollar bills.

[Joe Car]

Some excellent debate here. Well done gang!

[Snake Eyes]

I remember reading that Elvis once visited the Scientology Church and said that all they wanted was money. That it was just a place to bring in celebrities and rich people to take their money. I guess she should have listened to her dad and then they wouldn't have taken her.

They do need to remodel the buildings around there for sure. They need a nice big area to rest (cool off) and eat during Elvis week, it is so hot in August.

I was watching the E! True Hollywood story avout Lisa Marie the other day when scientology came into it, and Elvis was supposed to have said "It's all about the head and not the heart". Off topic, but scientology is all about the money, to get further up the food chain so to speak, depends on the amount of money you put into it.

Where is this Beatles thing supposed to be? Has it been made already? I could google it, but I'm not really into the Beatles.

[debtdbruno]

great points Ken.......your right, EPE are ****ed if they do or don't....

When all you have is The name, likeness and Image, there's a limit to what you can work with

[KPM]

Good point. Let me add that even though Lisa owns the estate including the archives and planes, she cannot shut down Graceland as it's a business that would affect the local economy. She would get sued if she tried to and most likely lose. Therefor the owners which would be CKX and Apollo would be the ones to suffer financially. Apollo could afford it but CKX could not.
You are exactly correct-Lisa could not just close down Graceland but being a business in a local economy has nothing whatsoever to do with that decision-any business can close its doors, relocate, shutdown for a time, etc any time they want or need to.
But as you point out-she has a deal with CKX/Apollo and they have the 85% share-of course she could perhaps take them to court if she really wanted to close.....she could argue that since taking the 85% share-they have not lived up to the expectations that she and her lawyers were given when they were negotiating the deal-but I would give her a 30% chance of winning such a suit.
Philosophically speaking-If I were her and could do so without having a court battle -I would close it down.
Many seem so unhappy, many want to run the estate as if it were their own and to make decisions which no matter how simple they sound on paper or in a forum are much much more complicated than imagined......and if she was able to close it down-then she would really be the villain to the same who are unhappy....I could hear the comments now. :D

[KPM]

To some degree you could say that if they don't rebuild things around Graceland the attraction could lose a lot of tourism. So that would be protecting Lisa's future even though she probably has enough money to last her and her kid’s future. They can do whatever they want to do with their money but there could become a time that they lose people coming to Graceland over conditions, and then it might be to late.
I would say that yes she is now totally secure.
You know there is no disagreement about upkeeping your property for the future, the problem ends up being how "BIG" does it have to be.
They have continually upgraded the tours and the grounds-obviously not to the extent some want....but we only know one side of the equation the side we gleem from info that is "released to the public" for every business there are issues and topics that are known to the real insiders at the top of the heap.
What those issues and topics have been for Lisa and EPE since Lisa took over her inheritance I have no clue-but I'm sure they are there like all businesses. That is why any criticism is just "second guessing" those who have all the information-not just the public side.
Its not like Graceland is falling down in a heap, or new exhibits are not being brought out each season....they have spent money acquiring what they can acquire....such as the TV specials, they did a good job of packaging and promoting those, they have not just totally stagnated for the last 35 years. Sillerman was the next step-perhaps to placate people who are constantly harping about "what should be done" and that was a mistake IMO
Apollo so far-the jury is out.
As far as the community around Graceland-they should do their part-but Memphis has drug its feet for 35 years......IMO the citizens and government were wanting Graceland to do "more than their fair share" as a member of the community......never mind that already Memphis was reaping huge returns on tourism dollars that were brought into the Public coffers by Graceland and Elvis's image.
The taxes would have to go up big time in Memphis if Graceland was not open and doing its part.
Criticism is easy-understanding is a lot harder.:blush:

[J.P]

there already is graceland

[King Of The Whole World]

I would say that yes she is now totally secure.
You know there is no disagreement about upkeeping your property for the future, the problem ends up being how "BIG" does it have to be.
They have continually upgraded the tours and the grounds-obviously not to the extent some want....but we only know one side of the equation the side we gleem from info that is "released to the public" for every business there are issues and topics that are known to the real insiders at the top of the heap.
What those issues and topics have been for Lisa and EPE since Lisa took over her inheritance I have no clue-but I'm sure they are there like all businesses. That is why any criticism is just "second guessing" those who have all the information-not just the public side.
Its not like Graceland is falling down in a heap, or new exhibits are not being brought out each season....they have spent money acquiring what they can acquire....such as the TV specials, they did a good job of packaging and promoting those, they have not just totally stagnated for the last 35 years. Sillerman was the next step-perhaps to placate people who are constantly harping about "what should be done" and that was a mistake IMO
Apollo so far-the jury is out.
As far as the community around Graceland-they should do their part-but Memphis has drug its feet for 35 years......IMO the citizens and government were wanting Graceland to do "more than their fair share" as a member of the community......never mind that already Memphis was reaping huge returns on tourism dollars that were brought into the Public coffers by Graceland and Elvis's image.
The taxes would have to go up big time in Memphis if Graceland was not open and doing its part.
Criticism is easy-understanding is a lot harder.:blush:

I agree. I would just like to see something that is a little bigger for people to rest in a climate controlled environment. I will be at Graceland during Elvis week and was there 2 years ago when it was 118 degrees. People hang out in the stores and the few places that they have air-conditioning, maybe that’s why they do that so you will hang out in the stores and buy even more stuff. I live in the south and am use to the hot weather but it becomes unbelievable in Memphis. I don't think an improvement like that would be asking too much. I know they have made improvements over the last 30 years.

I guess one thing I have always been surprised about is the lawn at Graceland is never better looking. I have always expected it to be like a golf course, green and lush. But there is a lot of bare spots and brown. I guess I’m crazy but Graceland would look unbelievable if the grass was in pristine shape.

[Diane]

Here is my lowly opinion....I would have no desire at all to visit an ultra modern museum for Elvis. Graceland being open to the fans is more than I ever expected and I feel for what it is, it's the best deal. He lived there and loved there and his spirit is all over the place and as Ken pointed out, it's what made Lisa's life secure as he wanted it to be.

If Lisa ever decides to close Graceland, that is if she could win that kind of a suit, I'd feel it was her personal right and I wouldn't feel a loss. I don't need ANYTHING to keep him in my mind and heart.

[King Of The Whole World]

Here is my lowly opinion....I would have no desire at all to visit an ultra modern museum for Elvis. Graceland being open to the fans is more than I ever expected and I feel for what it is, it's the best deal. He lived there and loved there and his spirit is all over the place and as Ken pointed out, it's what made Lisa's life secure as he wanted it to be.

If Lisa ever decides to close Graceland, that is if she could win that kind of a suit, I'd feel it was her personal right and I wouldn't feel a loss. I don't need ANYTHING to keep him in my mind and heart.

Great point and I agree. I would feel a slight loss however, I love going to Graceland it’s the closest I will get to my idol. You can feel his sprit and presence all over the place.

[vivaelvis]

I agree. I would just like to see something that is a little bigger for people to rest in a climate controlled environment. I will be at Graceland during Elvis week and was there 2 years ago when it was 118 degrees. People hang out in the stores and the few places that they have air-conditioning, maybe that’s why they do that so you will hang out in the stores and buy even more stuff. I live in the south and am use to the hot weather but it becomes unbelievable in Memphis. I don't think an improvement like that would be asking too much. I know they have made improvements over the last 30 years.

I guess one thing I have always been surprised about is the lawn at Graceland is never better looking. I have always expected it to be like a golf course, green and lush. But there is a lot of bare spots and brown. I guess I’m crazy but Graceland would look unbelievable if the grass was in pristine shape.

You couldn't be more correct with the highlighted statement.(y) However, I think EPE sees it like this. If nobody is complaining enough then why fix it? I personally have contacted EPE in the past to complain about this and I was told (lied to) that it was being addressed. But that was back in the 90's and nothing at all has changed in that department. THIS is my biggest problem. Not a hi-tech modernized museum, although one is much needed to introduce newer generations to his legacy and his past time, not just through the music.

Here's how I see it. If EPE/Apollo/CKX continue to treat guest the way they do with making them stay outdoors or jack up the prices of their attractions, then they better expect to see the attendances drop even further. This year they know they're getting back the visitors because of the big 35th anniversary. But we'll see if it continues in the next 5 years if nothing has been done, concerning a new hotel for guests and a new INDOOR center for visitors to at least enjoy their time and money.

[King Of The Whole World]

You couldn't be more correct with the highlighted statement.(y) However, I think EPE sees it like this. If nobody is complaining enough then why fix it? I personally have contacted EPE in the past to complain about this and I was told (lied to) that it was being addressed. But that was back in the 90's and nothing at all has changed in that department. THIS is my biggest problem. Not a hi-tech modernized museum, although one is much needed to introduce newer generations to his legacy and his past time, not just through the music.

Here's how I see it. If EPE/Apollo/CKX continue to treat guest the way they do with making them stay outdoors or jack up the prices of their attractions, then they better expect to see the attendances drop even further. This year they know they're getting back the visitors because of the big 35th anniversary. But we'll see if it continues in the next 5 years if nothing has been done, concerning a new hotel for guests and a new INDOOR center for visitors to at least enjoy their time and money.

Are you kidding, they added 2 fans with water misters on them. :lmfao:

[lvelvis]

i never knew the beatles had rtheir own museum , and what a nice one it is . Many thanks for bringing this to our attention . ELVIS PRESLEY needs to look better and atrack fans and people , and they are not going to do it with old dilapatated strip malls , and hotels. It's about time E,P,E, take responsability and overide and stop waiting for the city to help , they are so cheap and it is not only showing , it is hurting ELVIS PRESLEY and his memory. If anything ELVIS PRESLEY deserves the best, after ll he was/is/always will be THE BEST EVER.

[vivaelvis]

i never knew the beatles had rtheir own museum , and what a nice one it is . Many thanks for bringing this to our attention . ELVIS PRESLEY needs to look better and atrack fans and people , and they are not going to do it with old dilapatated strip malls , and hotels. It's about time E,P,E, take responsability and overide and stop waiting for the city to help , they are so cheap and it is not only showing , it is hurting ELVIS PRESLEY and his memory. If anything ELVIS PRESLEY deserves the best, after ll he was/is/always will be THE BEST EVER.

Best post of the year! And to the point and totally accurate!(y)(y)

Elvis is the King of Rock and freaking roll and he gets treated by his own estate and company as if he was just another person. While the entire city of Liverpool glorifies and praises the Beatles. Memphis can't even acknowledge Elvis' importance in his own home town. If it weren't for the people spending money, Tupelo wouldn't care either. Disgusting!

[Jungleroom76]

Having been a moderator on TCB-World for over 7 years, I have seen MANY debates come and go...including several on this topic. But I have to say that I am SO excited to see such a spirited conversation going on over this topic!! Even though it's been discussed before, there are new ideas, new links to new resources to back up information being presented, and it is all very exciting!! :clap:

Kudos to all of you for this intriguing and enlightening conversation!! Please keep it going -- THIS is what TCB-World is all about!!! :D

TCB!
Mike

[Tommy]

Having been a moderator on TCB-World for over 7 years, I have seen MANY debates come and go...including several on this topic. But I have to say that I am SO excited to see such a spirited conversation going on over this topic!! Even though it's been discussed before, there are new ideas, new links to new resources to back up information being presented, and it is all very exciting!! :clap:

Kudos to all of you for this intriguing and enlightening conversation!! Please keep it going -- THIS is what TCB-World is all about!!! :D

TCB!
Mike

I agree.........................................:cla p:........:clap:

[JRtherealJR]

I have ofter wondered what it is that makes the Graceland renovation issue so important to you........its your number one issue.
The number one issue for me concerning Elvis is his talent and charisma-his accomplishments as an artist-those are things that do not depend on renovations-because they will exist as long as his voice and performances are available.
http://www.enotes.com/elvis-presley-enterprises-inc-reference/elvis-presley-enterprises-inc

The reason why Graceland is so important to some fans (myself included) is not just because it is the second most visited home in America, not just because it is an icon itself, but because it makes Elvis unique amongst other stars in that it gives Elvis' stardom a visible place in the real world. It's the centre of everything Elvis and it's a place where Elvis is associated with by people the world over.

The death week pilgrimage where the world's media watches thousands of fans congregate at Graceland reminds non-fans of Elvis' huge impact and popularity. I agree that since Graceland opened, a lot more could have been done. Yes they have bought up a couple of strip malls, remodelled the racquetball building and built the car museum. But none of this is particuarly extraordinary. The Heartbreak Hotel & the Memphis restaurant both failed and the Sillerman deal was a lost opportunity. EPE needs some fresh ideas and some new blood into the company if it is to increase tourism to Graceland or at least maintain current levels- of course they had this with Sillerman but we all know how that ended.

Also don't forget Graceland attracts thousands of casual visitors every year and some of these surely will go on to be fans. Graceland gives a lot of visibility to Elvis and his fandom- remember when the Japanese Prime Minister and President Bush visited a few years ago? This is the type of publicity that stars today can only dream of!

What could EPE do? Look at the O2 in London, for years the former Millenium dome was seen as just a "big tent" and was a national joke. But now it is one of the premier concert venues in the world attracting the biggest stars. Maybe part of the problem lies with the fact that Graceland is in Memphis- not exactly a prestigious tourist destination like Florida or Hollywood?

[vivaelvis]

The reason why Graceland is so important to some fans (myself included) is not just because it is the second most visited home in America, not just because it is an icon itself, but because it makes Elvis unique amongst other stars in that it gives Elvis' stardom a visible place in the real world. It's the centre of everything Elvis and it's a place where Elvis is associated with by people the world over.

The death week pilgrimage where the world's media watches thousands of fans congregate at Graceland reminds non-fans of Elvis' huge impact and popularity. I agree that since Graceland opened, a lot more could have been done. Yes they have bought up a couple of strip malls, remodelled the racquetball building and built the car museum. But none of this is particuarly extraordinary. The Heartbreak Hotel & the Memphis restaurant both failed and the Sillerman deal was a lost opportunity. EPE needs some fresh ideas and some new blood into the company if it is to increase tourism to Graceland or at least maintain current levels- of course they had this with Sillerman but we all know how that ended.

Also don't forget Graceland attracts thousands of casual visitors every year and some of these surely will go on to be fans. Graceland gives a lot of visibility to Elvis and his fandom- remember when the Japanese Prime Minister and President Bush visited a few years ago? This is the type of publicity that stars today can only dream of!

What could EPE do? Look at the O2 in London, for years the former Millenium dome was seen as just a "big tent" and was a national joke. But now it is one of the premier concert venues in the world attracting the biggest stars. Maybe part of the problem lies with the fact that Graceland is in Memphis- not exactly a prestigious tourist destination like Florida or Hollywood?

Outstanding post! I couldn't agree more!(y)(y)

[debtdbruno]

i never knew the beatles had rtheir own museum , and what a nice one it is . Many thanks for bringing this to our attention . ELVIS PRESLEY needs to look better and atrack fans and people , and they are not going to do it with old dilapatated strip malls , and hotels. It's about time E,P,E, take responsability and overide and stop waiting for the city to help , they are so cheap and it is not only showing , it is hurting ELVIS PRESLEY and his memory. If anything ELVIS PRESLEY deserves the best, after ll he was/is/always will be THE BEST EVER.


Its called 'Elvis and us'

Not all about the Beatles, there's Elvis memorabilia there too. I'm going in August

[KPM]

The reason why Graceland is so important to some fans (myself included) is not just because it is the second most visited home in America, not just because it is an icon itself, but because it makes Elvis unique amongst other stars in that it gives Elvis' stardom a visible place in the real world. It's the centre of everything Elvis and it's a place where Elvis is associated with by people the world over.

The death week pilgrimage where the world's media watches thousands of fans congregate at Graceland reminds non-fans of Elvis' huge impact and popularity. I agree that since Graceland opened, a lot more could have been done. Yes they have bought up a couple of strip malls, remodelled the racquetball building and built the car museum. But none of this is particuarly extraordinary. The Heartbreak Hotel & the Memphis restaurant both failed and the Sillerman deal was a lost opportunity. EPE needs some fresh ideas and some new blood into the company if it is to increase tourism to Graceland or at least maintain current levels- of course they had this with Sillerman but we all know how that ended.

Also don't forget Graceland attracts thousands of casual visitors every year and some of these surely will go on to be fans. Graceland gives a lot of visibility to Elvis and his fandom- remember when the Japanese Prime Minister and President Bush visited a few years ago? This is the type of publicity that stars today can only dream of!

What could EPE do? Look at the O2 in London, for years the former Millenium dome was seen as just a "big tent" and was a national joke. But now it is one of the premier concert venues in the world attracting the biggest stars. Maybe part of the problem lies with the fact that Graceland is in Memphis- not exactly a prestigious tourist destination like Florida or Hollywood?
As you point out "Graceland" is important to fans it was the focal point of Elvis's life till he died there......it is in essence a museum because it was his home-the Beatles facility is a museum because someone decided it was needed as a focal point for Beatle fans and tourists who come to Liverpool since there is no single "home" or site that really could be correlated to "Gracelands importance" to we fans of Elvis. 4 individuals comprised the Beatles and they did not all live together for most of their life.
So now this state of the art museum in Liverpool is the place for Beatle fans to see all things Beatles.
The Sillerman deal was a lost opportunity-but not due to EPE or Lisa, they brought in Sillerman after his pitch for what he could do to take that next step-he has the 85% sayso for any change of consequence-and we know what has happened.

[KPM]

Are you kidding, they added 2 fans with water misters on them. :lmfao:
I live near St Louis-and the weather patterns they get-we get.
Drought like situations come along every year-today it is 97 degrees at this moment in St Louis similar to Memphis. It is very hard to keep pristeen grass in climates that are so crazy that you can have 97 degrees one day, and then 65 degrees a few days later-the midwest at the Mississippi river is a collision point for west coast weather movement and southerm moisture which makes it hard to keep grounds in good shape.
A local retirement home that I was associated with for a few years had 127 acres of grounds with 30 acres developed with a state of the art sprinkler system (not cheap)-but in the first year we found out that althought it helped we still had grass that died or browned out -especially after a severe winter with a lot of snow and low temps. We had a company come in and they said we used too much ice melt on the streets and walkways to melt snow-it was seeping deep into soil and then affecting grass growth in spring and summer.....their answer was to use less ice melt.
That was impossible with 50 driveways, 10 private streets, several parking lots -and most importantly elderly people who had to move from home to car, home to dining rooms at the main complex, car to walks etc......the board said "We do not want people hurt and lawsuits" that ended the worry about brown spots from time to time.
All I am trying to show is with every "simple problem" their is not always a satisfactory answer-that satisfies all you want to do.

[KPM]

i never knew the beatles had rtheir own museum , and what a nice one it is . Many thanks for bringing this to our attention . ELVIS PRESLEY needs to look better and atrack fans and people , and they are not going to do it with old dilapatated strip malls , and hotels. It's about time E,P,E, take responsability and overide and stop waiting for the city to help , they are so cheap and it is not only showing , it is hurting ELVIS PRESLEY and his memory. If anything ELVIS PRESLEY deserves the best, after ll he was/is/always will be THE BEST EVER.
Contact Apollo if you think it hurts Elvis's memory they have the 85% ownership rights to the image and likeness and the lease with Lisa for the mansions use. EPE is waiting also for some indication of what the next concrete step will be-waiting since 2005.
They waited on Memphis for 35 years-EPE (and even Apollo)are not in the business of urban redevelopement.
They have a stake in urban redevelopement-like every business owner in Memphis-and no business brings in as
much to the city from all points as Graceland (such gratitude)
It amazes me-before Disneyland was built Walt Disney got all kinds of things done for the property that ended up being used to build the park-literally all government agencies that had a jurisdiction for individual problems worked their rears off to help get this major money maker built.
Taxbreaks, credits, red tape cut, help that amounted to millions in helping Disney get this project done.
I do not see that same record of help from Memphis over the last 35 years-but EPE is the bad guy....sorry I just do not see them as the black dressed villains tying people to the tracks and stealing their money. Its unfair, its not drawing a picture that is accurate and balanced.
I will say it again-they could do everything some declare is a must-and it still would not be enough.;)

[vivaelvis]

Contact Apollo if you think it hurts Elvis's memory they have the 85% ownership rights to the image and likeness and the lease with Lisa for the mansions use. EPE is waiting also for some indication of what the next concrete step will be-waiting since 2005.
They waited on Memphis for 35 years-EPE (and even Apollo)are not in the business of urban redevelopement.
They have a stake in urban redevelopement-like every business owner in Memphis-and no business brings in as
much to the city from all points as Graceland (such gratitude)
It amazes me-before Disneyland was built Walt Disney got all kinds of things done for the property that ended up being used to build the park-literally all government agencies that had a jurisdiction for individual problems worked their rears off to help get this major money maker built.
Taxbreaks, credits, red tape cut, help that amounted to millions in helping Disney get this project done.
I do not see that same record of help from Memphis over the last 35 years-but EPE is the bad guy....sorry I just do not see them as the black dressed villains tying people to the tracks and stealing their money. Its unfair, its not drawing a picture that is accurate and balanced.
I will say it again-they could do everything some declare is a must-and it still would not be enough.;)

As big as Graceland is for Memphis, it's not the top money making business. FedEx is.

The redevelopment part is about to happen as of this November as ground breaking is set to begin on what will be a 3-phase 3-year project, starting at E. Brooks down three miles to Shelby Drive. The city is doing its part, albeit 30 years too late, but at least they're finally getting it done. It's now time for EPE to live up to their end of the bargain and deliver by making drastic needed upgrades, starting with a new hotel and a new visitor's center. Their main excuse was that the city had to get involved before they could invest $250 million into the area. Now that the city is doing their part, EPE needs to do theirs. And the economy isn't as much an issue now as it was 3-5 years ago. And CKX is no longer going broke and is under strong stable ownership in Apollo. So no more excuses can be made.

Time for them to put up or shut up.

[KPM]

As big as Graceland is for Memphis, it's not the top money making business. FedEx is. The redevelopment part is about to happen as of this November as ground breaking is set to begin on what will be a 3-phase 3-year project, starting at E. Brooks down three miles to Shelby Drive. The city is doing its part, albeit 30 years too late, but at least they're finally getting it done. It's now time for EPE to live up to their end of the bargain and deliver by making drastic needed upgrades, starting with a new hotel and a new visitor's center. Their main excuse was that the city had to get involved before they could invest $250 million into the area. Now that the city is doing their part, EPE needs to do theirs. And the economy isn't as much an issue now as it was 3-5 years ago. And CKX is no longer going broke and is under strong stable ownership in Apollo. So no more excuses can be made.

Time for them to put up or shut up.
Graceland brings in a total to Memphis that is hard to measure (unlike Fedex which has definite numbers for exact amounts) How much tourism money ends up in local restaurants, hotels, parks, airlines, etc.....Gracelands total is just not measured in their figures but in money that is spent elsewhere.
It is time for APOLLO to stand up-EPE is waiting to see what they will do!

[lvelvis]

i just think as most fans it is time for an expansion and reno, we all know many fans are complaining of certain hotels and plaza's resturaunts. I believe it would just look and make new fans feel better about being a fan of one if not THE GREATEST ENTERTAINER EVER. This has bin talked and talked about in many fans circles , the city of memohis and E.P.E. please get together again and hammer out the details and whatever else , before GRACELAND becomes a ghostland. You would think that this would have bin done years ago , the last time i was at graceland 2008 , i left so angry as many of the tourists were saying how the hotel was a dump and the area around graceland was less than desirable , in reality they were right , it is definetly for an upgrade.

[King Of The Whole World]

I was there 2 years ago and back in 1989, I was sad that I had to leave not angry. I will be there this August and it will be sad to leave. I love it there, its The King’s world.

Part of me would hate to see the buildings knocked down to build something better. You can see in some pictures as Elvis is pulling out of Graceland you can see some of the strip mall across the street, mainly the small building on the right. I can remember being in that little building when I was 11 years old back in 89 and how excited I was to be there for the first time. So part of me would hate to see some of that gone.

But if they never change anything with those buildings across the street it will never stop me from coming back. All that matters to me is nothing ever happens to the house. That would feel like loosing our man again.

[debtdbruno]

I was there 2 years ago and back in 1989, I was sad that I had to leave not angry. I will be there this August and it will be sad to leave. I love it there, its The King’s world.

Part of me would hate to see the buildings knocked down to build something better. You can see in some pictures as Elvis is pulling out of Graceland you can see some of the strip mall across the street, mainly the small building on the right. I can remember being in that little building when I was 11 years old back in 89 and how excited I was to be there for the first time. So part of me would hate to see some of that gone.

But if they never change anything with those buildings across the street it will never stop me from coming back. All that matters to me is nothing ever happens to the house. That would feel like loosing our man again.


Well said(y)(y)(y)

[Snake Eyes]

(y)
I was there 2 years ago and back in 1989, I was sad that I had to leave not angry. I will be there this August and it will be sad to leave. I love it there, its The King’s world.

Part of me would hate to see the buildings knocked down to build something better. You can see in some pictures as Elvis is pulling out of Graceland you can see some of the strip mall across the street, mainly the small building on the right. I can remember being in that little building when I was 11 years old back in 89 and how excited I was to be there for the first time. So part of me would hate to see some of that gone.

But if they never change anything with those buildings across the street it will never stop me from coming back. All that matters to me is nothing ever happens to the house. That would feel like loosing our man again.

Although I have not been to Graceland (yet), this statement speaks volumes to me, spoken by a true fan (y)

[vivaelvis]

(y)[/B]

Although I have not been to Graceland (yet), this statement speaks volumes to me, spoken by a true fan (y)
Just wait till you see it (the visitor's center as it is now and has been for the past 20 years) in person. You'll change your mind fast.

[Snake Eyes]

Just wait till you see it (the visitor's center as it is now and has been for the past 20 years) in person. You'll change your mind fast.

This really is a bone of contention for you isn't it? ;) I don't have any concrete plans to go back to the States until my kids are a few years older, even then, if I get the chance to go to Memphis, it will be a flying visit and I'd imagine I'd be so excited at the prospect of actually being in Elvis' home, that I'd be wearing blinkers to anything undesirable.

Hopefully when my time comes, everything will be perfect :lol:

[KPM]

i just think as most fans it is time for an expansion and reno, we all know many fans are complaining of certain hotels and plaza's resturaunts. I believe it would just look and make new fans feel better about being a fan of one if not THE GREATEST ENTERTAINER EVER. This has bin talked and talked about in many fans circles , the city of memohis and E.P.E. please get together again and hammer out the details and whatever else , before GRACELAND becomes a ghostland. You would think that this would have bin done years ago , the last time i was at graceland 2008 , i left so angry as many of the tourists were saying how the hotel was a dump and the area around graceland was less than desirable , in reality they were right , it is definetly for an upgrade.
I have said this many times-I reject the idea that somehow without huge "state of the art" facilities, huge expensive new exhibits, huge "Disney like" improvements that Graceland and the attraction of Elvis will end up- A GHOSTLAND.
Many of us older fans have heard these things before-all the way back to 1956 "Elvis Presley is a flash in the pan-he can not last"
When entering the service it was said "Now he will be away for a couple years, pop music is fickle and his career is over"
When he began formula films....."Elvis is now no longer a rock star, hes a film star-in crappy movies..... its over"
When the Beatles hit in 64........"Elvis is old hat, hes no longer the King of Rock"
When he died some said..........."Elvis ended badly, his talent is gone and soon he will be a memory meaning nothing to anyone"
NONE of those type comments from different eras -was even close to accurate.......MEMPHIS could rot and the charismatic draw of Elvis would still remain.
For all of you who seem to think otherwise, and lets face it that is the indercurrent idea that always pops up in these argument-the stealth message that spurs one sides debate.........
Elvis, which Graceland represents to the world, will always draw people......there is no magic redevelopement or plan that will ever become the focal point of why people come to "his home"...... the focal point "is not" how well the mansion looks, or how modern the estate has become, or how the grass looks year in year out (I'm sure a few brown spots occured even when Elvis was alive) the focal point is:
"This is where the most charismatic artist lived his life out, this is the spot he choice out of literally anywhere on earth to call "HOME"
Forgive me if I "realize" that truth.
For all you who want Elvis to be the biggest hottest thing in music able to compete with live artists and to be as hot as the "flavor of the months" it just can not be....but that does not mean Elvis can not gain fans, draw fans as he always has throughout his entire career-alive or dead....by the power of what made him the hottest thing in the world at the start-his magnitisim, his one of a kind talent and charisma like very few people who have walked the earth.
My daughter went to Graceland in 2009 during Thanksgiving week-she in passing mentioned her hotel, she liked the restaurants they ate in, she loved Beale Street and Sun Studios-but the bulk of her conversation when she talked to me about her trip-was walking in the home that Elvis lived in, seeing his living room, seeing things he lived amonst.....feeling that feeling of someone special walked these halls. She is 28......and more a Beatle fan than Elvis-but she did not go because she heard of some major new exhibit or addition to Memphis or Graceland-she went to see Elvis's home. My daughter is not untypical of most who go there.

[King Of The Whole World]

Well said(y)(y)(y)

Thank you very much.

[King Of The Whole World]

This really is a bone of contention for you isn't it? ;) I don't have any concrete plans to go back to the States until my kids are a few years older, even then, if I get the chance to go to Memphis, it will be a flying visit and I'd imagine I'd be so excited at the prospect of actually being in Elvis' home, that I'd be wearing blinkers to anything undesirable.

Hopefully when my time comes, everything will be perfect :lol:

Thank you for your kind reply. I'am a true fan, I love everything about Elvis.

I hope you do get a chance to go to Graceland someday. I do not think you will ever feel disappointed, I never have. As I said before the thing that matters the most to me is that the house never changes. I really do think you can feel his presense there. I feel at home in Elvis' home.

[vivaelvis]

I have said this many times-I reject the idea that somehow without huge "state of the art" facilities, huge expensive new exhibits, huge "Disney like" improvements that Graceland and the attraction of Elvis will end up- A GHOSTLAND.
Many of us older fans have heard these things before-all the way back to 1956 "Elvis Presley is a flash in the pan-he can not last"
When entering the service it was said "Now he will be away for a couple years, pop music is fickle and his career is over"
When he began formula films....."Elvis is now no longer a rock star, hes a film star-in crappy movies..... its over"
When the Beatles hit in 64........"Elvis is old hat, hes no longer the King of Rock"
When he died some said..........."Elvis ended badly, his talent is gone and soon he will be a memory meaning nothing to anyone"
NONE of those type comments from different eras -was even close to accurate.......MEMPHIS could rot and the charismatic draw of Elvis would still remain.
For all of you who seem to think otherwise, and lets face it that is the indercurrent idea that always pops up in these argument-the stealth message that spurs one sides debate.........
Elvis, which Graceland represents to the world, will always draw people......there is no magic redevelopement or plan that will ever become the focal point of why people come to "his home"...... the focal point "is not" how well the mansion looks, or how modern the estate has become, or how the grass looks year in year out (I'm sure a few brown spots occured even when Elvis was alive) the focal point is:
"This is where the most charismatic artist lived his life out, this is the spot he choice out of literally anywhere on earth to call "HOME"
Forgive me if I "realize" that truth.
For all you who want Elvis to be the biggest hottest thing in music able to compete with live artists and to be as hot as the "flavor of the months" it just can not be....but that does not mean Elvis can not gain fans, draw fans as he always has throughout his entire career-alive or dead....by the power of what made him the hottest thing in the world at the start-his magnitisim, his one of a kind talent and charisma like very few people who have walked the earth.
My daughter went to Graceland in 2009 during Thanksgiving week-she in passing mentioned her hotel, she liked the restaurants they ate in, she loved Beale Street and Sun Studios-but the bulk of her conversation when she talked to me about her trip-was walking in the home that Elvis lived in, seeing his living room, seeing things he lived amonst.....feeling that feeling of someone special walked these halls. She is 28......and more a Beatle fan than Elvis-but she did not go because she heard of some major new exhibit or addition to Memphis or Graceland-she went to see Elvis's home. My daughter is not untypical of most who go there.

All that is true and I can't argue with it. However, EPE and Graceland operations are a business and records show that no major business can survive longevity if they don't invest and expand. The only reason Graceland has survived as is this long is because of the die hard fans who couldn't care less if they have nowhere to stand or sit as long as they can see Graceland. And because of that, EPE hasn't cared about expanding. That won't be able to continue in a few years when the baby boomer age group has died off and EPE has to begin to cater to 20 and 30 something crowds on average.

I was looking online the other day and stumbled across a site that mentioned how factories in general have tripled in size since the 1950's. Most averaged around 25,000 square feet back then. Now are averaging at around 100,000 square feet today.

EPE has constantly bragged about their figures being 50% or better of visitors being under 40 for the last decade now. But they also have mentioned that only 20% of all visitors are returnees. Meaning that 80% of newcomers don't return. If that is true, and EPE/CKX/Apollo fails to upgrade and expand to make a new generation of visitors want to come back, then that does NOT bode well the future of Graceland/EPE as a business.

As a life long fan and someone who grew up there, I just don't want to see Graceland close because of lack of upkeep and upgrading.

Another thing, your daughter was referring to the hotels and restaurants in DOWNTOWN, not at Graceland. Another reason they MUST expand and upgrade sooner than later, for the company's sake if nothing else.

[debtdbruno]

I have said this many times-I reject the idea that somehow without huge "state of the art" facilities, huge expensive new exhibits, huge "Disney like" improvements that Graceland and the attraction of Elvis will end up- A GHOSTLAND.
Many of us older fans have heard these things before-all the way back to 1956 "Elvis Presley is a flash in the pan-he can not last"
When entering the service it was said "Now he will be away for a couple years, pop music is fickle and his career is over"
When he began formula films....."Elvis is now no longer a rock star, hes a film star-in crappy movies..... its over"
When the Beatles hit in 64........"Elvis is old hat, hes no longer the King of Rock"
When he died some said..........."Elvis ended badly, his talent is gone and soon he will be a memory meaning nothing to anyone"
NONE of those type comments from different eras -was even close to accurate.......MEMPHIS could rot and the charismatic draw of Elvis would still remain.
For all of you who seem to think otherwise, and lets face it that is the indercurrent idea that always pops up in these argument-the stealth message that spurs one sides debate.........
Elvis, which Graceland represents to the world, will always draw people......there is no magic redevelopement or plan that will ever become the focal point of why people come to "his home"...... the focal point "is not" how well the mansion looks, or how modern the estate has become, or how the grass looks year in year out (I'm sure a few brown spots occured even when Elvis was alive) the focal point is:
"This is where the most charismatic artist lived his life out, this is the spot he choice out of literally anywhere on earth to call "HOME"
Forgive me if I "realize" that truth.
For all you who want Elvis to be the biggest hottest thing in music able to compete with live artists and to be as hot as the "flavor of the months" it just can not be....but that does not mean Elvis can not gain fans, draw fans as he always has throughout his entire career-alive or dead....by the power of what made him the hottest thing in the world at the start-his magnitisim, his one of a kind talent and charisma like very few people who have walked the earth.
My daughter went to Graceland in 2009 during Thanksgiving week-she in passing mentioned her hotel, she liked the restaurants they ate in, she loved Beale Street and Sun Studios-but the bulk of her conversation when she talked to me about her trip-was walking in the home that Elvis lived in, seeing his living room, seeing things he lived amonst.....feeling that feeling of someone special walked these halls. She is 28......and more a Beatle fan than Elvis-but she did not go because she heard of some major new exhibit or addition to Memphis or Graceland-she went to see Elvis's home. My daughter is not untypical of most who go there.

You 'talk' a lot of sense Ken........

[KPM]

All that is true and I can't argue with it. However, EPE and Graceland operations are a business and records show that no major business can survive longevity if they don't invest and expand. The only reason Graceland has survived as is this long is because of the die hard fans who couldn't care less if they have nowhere to stand or sit as long as they can see Graceland. And because of that, EPE hasn't cared about expanding. That won't be able to continue in a few years when the baby boomer age group has died off and EPE has to begin to cater to 20 and 30 something crowds on average.

I was looking online the other day and stumbled across a site that mentioned how factories in general have tripled in size since the 1950's. Most averaged around 25,000 square feet back then. Now are averaging at around 100,000 square feet today.

EPE has constantly bragged about their figures being 50% or better of visitors being under 40 for the last decade now. But they also have mentioned that only 20% of all visitors are returnees. Meaning that 80% of newcomers don't return. If that is true, and EPE/CKX/Apollo fails to upgrade and expand to make a new generation of visitors want to come back, then that does NOT bode well the future of Graceland/EPE as a business.

As a life long fan and someone who grew up there, I just don't want to see Graceland close because of lack of upkeep and upgrading.

Another thing, your daughter was referring to the hotels and restaurants in DOWNTOWN, not at Graceland. Another reason they MUST expand and upgrade sooner than later, for the company's sake if nothing else.
Comparing Graceland the only real home for Elvis Presley to uh ATT or Shell Oil is apples and oranges.
You have to have phone service, you have to have gas for your car-you do not love the products they have-you buy them out of necessity.
Elvis is loved, adored world wide by many millions (not just boomer generations- the many younger fans right here at TCB world proves that) you say you can not disagree with my last thoughts-but you then say "You'd hate to see Graceland close due to lack of upkeep and upgrading" ?
I asked my daughter if a hotel closer to the mansion would have been preferable and she said it did not matter-intown was not that far to go to the mansion ( I repeat my daughter is 28 and the group of friends who went with her were all under 30 hardly anywhere near boomer age)
As far as upkeep-that is done, as far as upgrading that is done the planes were not cheap, the renovations to the Raquetball court to make it code worthy for the public by government standards is not free, buying up cars to add to the car museum and restoring them not cheap, it took years to reach an agreement to buy outright the 68 special and Aloha-it did not come cheap.........your argument is always the same Elvis and Graceland will disapear without "MAJOR Expansion" I could go back to other threads and that is the argument you make.
So you do not agree with my thoughts really.... you feel that the charima, talent and magnitism of Elvis's personality will perish without a new grand Hotel, a new "state of the art facility to become a main museum housing things from the mansion" that without these things Graceland will somehow crumble and close.
I repeat people do not go to Graceland for what has been added since Elvis died-they go because it was his home-pure and wonderfully simple.
Many people only go to Disneyland once-I have been there once and I enjoyed it but once was enough.....after children are grown you definitely are not going again-but the wonderful thing is this world has billions of people and Disneyland still gets visitors-they add new things-but the park is still much as it was when I went there in the early 70s. The crowds of Disneyland are immense traffic around that area is murder and if you have ever waited in line for 4 hours for a ride (we waited that long to take the submarine ride) you are not anxious to do so again.
Would the locals be happy in Memphis if they had the municipal nightmares of that type traffic that type crowds everyday???
I have heard people who live in Memphis complain about the crowds and confusion when the Birthday and death anniversary crowds are in town.
I have another thought-Elvis could have had a huge state of the art home anywhere in the world-he could have had the 100 room Neverland ranch type of house.......if.....he...had wanted it! He chose to stay at Graceland-HIS HOME!
The attraction to Memphis for the world is not what you crave and say is necessity-it is the simplistic idea that this is his home-he walked, played, ate and slept here. Adding things is fine, but calling it a make or break situation is false IMO

[KPM]

I know many think I defend EPE way to much-and to many they are the villains.....as bad as Parker, or Hollywood producers who used Elvis and kept him boxed into bad movies......but I actually see big differences and make allowances for those in my thoughts and feelings about EPE.
Parker was a manipulator of all things, he knew what he was doing and knew how to handle Elvis from day one-he set his sights upon Elvis from the moment he became aware of him and landed him....on his terms. He managed Elvis from a perpetual conflect of interest that was ongoing for the entire relationship-he never worried about creativity, growth of Elvis as an artist or human being-he worried about profit. Parker put himself in Elvis's life purposely and staked a claim.
So did Hal Wallis and most of the producers of any film Elvis ever did, with Parkers help they signed Elvis with thoughts of becoming a serious actor-and then exploited him for nearly his entire Hollywood film career-they purposely got into Elvis's career and staked claims to make a profit. Not caring if Elvis stagnated into hating his own films.
RCA in conjunction with Parker never paid Elvis a royaltee rate on par with similar and even lesser artists for his entire career-they with Parkers help hoodwinked away 90% of Elvis catalogue for a pittance they purposely got involved with his life getting the lions share of the pie.

EPE was created out of necessity of death and improper financial planning that was partially caused by Parker, Hollywood, RCA and Elvis's trusting these entities and yes Elvis's own spending habits.
EPE did not jump into his life with the idea of enriching themselves-they were formed out of legal direction from a probate court-to protect and grow the estate....with little but the image of Elvis to work with.
They have accomplished that goal many times over they have not just sat around twiddling their thumbs letting the estate crumble or Elvis's name to perish into oblivion. To insinuate they have is to ignore the fact that the estate has grown from $500,000 IN 81 TO its present size....to ignore that Sillerman gave $100 million to Lisa plus stock in CKX plus 15% of Elvis's image and she still outright owns Graceland and his property.
Now I have said this before in these arguments I do not like all they have done, do not like some of the merchandise they market (indeed I do not buy trinkets) but and this is my point.......I understand the necessity of their plight.
Am I against renovations or additions NO am I against expansion NO but I am against the argument that EPE has slept the last 35 years with nothing to show for it, I am against the argument that they are just Parker incanate.... because they did not jump into the Presley world like Parker, or Hollywood, or RCA....they were brought in because of death and the aftermath of the exploitation by Parker, Hollywood and RCA.
Also the whole Graceland will close argument is just bogus IMO for reasons I have already stated-mainly because I know how real lifelong fans become such-and it has nothing to do with musuems, additions, nor even basic upkeep-it has to do with ELVIS.
EPE gets a nod of thanks from me-for doing what Elvis asked, in a no win situation. They are blamed for no new material in the vaults, for not having better marketing of Elvis as an artist, for no new EOT/TTWII with hours and hours of outtakes etc they had nothing to do directily with any of those things.
EPE took the next step with Sillerman, and now Apollo.....why not contact those people....e-mail them and complain, start a letter writing campaign. an online petition etc.......tell Apollo you want the thngs you seem to think "have to be done" they have the sayso-no if ans or buts they will decide when anything of large consequence is done-not EPE... not we fans, not even Lisa.
I hope this explains my position (which will not change because the basic facts will never change)
We all have passionate subjects and this is one of mine.

[King Of The Whole World]

You know what is a interesting thought. If you built a huge shrine to Elvis in another state, let’s say California. You could build a 100,000 square foot state-of-the-art building and have a movie theater that plays all Elvis movies all day, have every car, clothing, jewelry that Elvis ever owned and a replica of Graceland that allows everyone to go upstairs. Would people from all over the world flock to see this addition? I don't think so it's where Elvis lived that makes Graceland so special. Not "necessarily" the amenities that attract the almost a million people each year.

[rocknroll]

Graceland is a long way from closing. It is fine.

I agree, the surrounding area could use some tastefull upgrades, but huge expansion and gaudy exhibits will only detract from the real purpose of visiting Elvis' home. It just isn't needed.

[debtdbruno]

I know many think I defend EPE way to much-and to many they are the villains.....as bad as Parker, or Hollywood producers who used Elvis and kept him boxed into bad movies......but I actually see big differences and make allowances for those in my thoughts and feelings about EPE.
Parker was a manipulator of all things, he knew what he was doing and knew how to handle Elvis from day one-he set his sights upon Elvis from the moment he became aware of him and landed him....on his terms. He managed Elvis from a perpetual conflect of interest that was ongoing for the entire relationship-he never worried about creativity, growth of Elvis as an artist or human being-he worried about profit. Parker put himself in Elvis's life purposely and staked a claim.
So did Hal Wallis and most of the producers of any film Elvis ever did, with Parkers help they signed Elvis with thoughts of becoming a serious actor-and then exploited him for nearly his entire Hollywood film career-they purposely got into Elvis's career and staked claims to make a profit. Not caring if Elvis stagnated into hating his own films.
RCA in conjunction with Parker never paid Elvis a royaltee rate on par with similar and even lesser artists for his entire career-they with Parkers help hoodwinked away 90% of Elvis catalogue for a pittance they purposely got involved with his life getting the lions share of the pie.

EPE was created out of necessity of death and improper financial planning that was partially caused by Parker, Hollywood, RCA and Elvis's trusting these entities and yes Elvis's own spending habits.
EPE did not jump into his life with the idea of enriching themselves-they were formed out of legal direction from a probate court-to protect and grow the estate....with little but the image of Elvis to work with.
They have accomplished that goal many times over they have not just sat around twiddling their thumbs letting the estate crumble or Elvis's name to perish into oblivion. To insinuate they have is to ignore the fact that the estate has grown from $500,000 IN 81 TO its present size....to ignore that Sillerman gave $100 million to Lisa plus stock in CKX plus 15% of Elvis's image and she still outright owns Graceland and his property.
Now I have said this before in these arguments I do not like all they have done, do not like some of the merchandise they market (indeed I do not buy trinkets) but and this is my point.......I understand the necessity of their plight.
Am I against renovations or additions NO am I against expansion NO but I am against the argument that EPE has slept the last 35 years with nothing to show for it, I am against the argument that they are just Parker incanate.... because they did not jump into the Presley world like Parker, or Hollywood, or RCA....they were brought in because of death and the aftermath of the exploitation by Parker, Hollywood and RCA.
Also the whole Graceland will close argument is just bogus IMO for reasons I have already stated-mainly because I know how real lifelong fans become such-and it has nothing to do with musuems, additions, nor even basic upkeep-it has to do with ELVIS.
EPE gets a nod of thanks from me-for doing what Elvis asked, in a no win situation. They are blamed for no new material in the vaults, for not having better marketing of Elvis as an artist, for no new EOT/TTWII with hours and hours of outtakes etc they had nothing to do directily with any of those things.
EPE took the next step with Sillerman, and now Apollo.....why not contact those people....e-mail them and complain, start a letter writing campaign. an online petition etc.......tell Apollo you want the thngs you seem to think "have to be done" they have the sayso-no if ans or buts they will decide when anything of large consequence is done-not EPE... not we fans, not even Lisa.
I hope this explains my position (which will not change because the basic facts will never change)
We all have passionate subjects and this is one of mine.

that sums up my opinion too(y)(y)(y)

[Snake Eyes]

Thank you for your kind reply. I'am a true fan, I love everything about Elvis.

I hope you do get a chance to go to Graceland someday. I do not think you will ever feel disappointed, I never have. As I said before the thing that matters the most to me is that the house never changes. I really do think you can feel his presense there. I feel at home in Elvis' home.

You're welcome Chris, what really matters is Graceland itself, it's the heart of it all. Like I've said before tho, I'll wait until my kids are a bit older, but we will go (y)

[Diane]

Its called 'Elvis and us'

Not all about the Beatles, there's Elvis memorabilia there too. I'm going in August

Apparently according to my daughter that went there last year, the Music Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio has several room dedicated to some great Elvis memorabilia...including his purple cadillac, I wouldn't mind going there myself.

[KPM]

I found out a little info on the Beatles Liverpool museum it was established in 1988 and opened in 1990. In the last couple of years they have added the newer building in the photo posted at the start of the thread.
Here is the answer to the question -Do the Beatles have anything to do with the Beatles Story? from the museum website:
The Beatles Story is owned by Merseytravel, the public transport governing body for Merseyside.
The remaining Beatles are aware that our visitor attraction exists, but do not endorse it in anyway.
We have extensive links to the Beatles industry and many of the Beatles friends and family who give its continued support.

[vivaelvis]

I found out a little info on the Beatles Liverpool museum it was established in 1988 and opened in 1990. In the last couple of years they have added the newer building in the photo posted at the start of the thread.
Here is the answer to the question -Do the Beatles have anything to do with the Beatles Story? from the museum website:
The Beatles Story is owned by Merseytravel, the public transport governing body for Merseyside.
The remaining Beatles are aware that our visitor attraction exists, but do not endorse it in anyway.
We have extensive links to the Beatles industry and many of the Beatles friends and family who give its continued support.

That only makes my point of argument more valid.

[vivaelvis]

Apparently according to my daughter that went there last year, the Music Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio has several room dedicated to some great Elvis memorabilia...including his purple cadillac, I wouldn't mind going there myself.

The Rock Hall Of Fame was originally supposed to have been in Memphis since that is where rock music was born. But politics stepped in and got it put in Cleveland because of where Bill Randal use to broadcast his radio shows in the 50's and they claimed that was the "real home" to rock's roots. But, as for the museum itself, I've never been there, but know some that have and they say it's a world class facility and very informative. What's sad is that the Elvis room and display is said to be far more nicer than anything that is at Graceland on Elvis as far as exhibits go.

[KPM]

That only makes my point of argument more valid.
Not sure how? But this museum is obviously government affiliated since Merseytravel is Liverpools public transport body:
2008 Merseytravel bought the Beatles Story; Liverpool's public transport body and runs the Beatles Story alongside other attractions including the world famous Mersey Ferries, Spaceport, the U-Boat Story and the Mersey Tunnel Tours.

2008 saw the Beatles Story triple in size from 8,000sq ft to 23,000sq ft to include the interactive Discovery Zone, special exhibition and Going Solo areas, an expanded Fab4Store and online shop and Starbucks Coffeehouse. And if that wasn't enough, in 2009 the Beatles Story expanded into a second site, with the Beatles Story Pier Head housed at the new Merseyferries terminal.

[vivaelvis]

Not sure how? But this museum is obviously government affiliated since Merseytravel is Liverpools public transport body:
2008 Merseytravel bought the Beatles Story; Liverpool's public transport body and runs the Beatles Story alongside other attractions including the world famous Mersey Ferries, Spaceport, the U-Boat Story and the Mersey Tunnel Tours.

2008 saw the Beatles Story triple in size from 8,000sq ft to 23,000sq ft to include the interactive Discovery Zone, special exhibition and Going Solo areas, an expanded Fab4Store and online shop and Starbucks Coffeehouse. And if that wasn't enough, in 2009 the Beatles Story expanded into a second site, with the Beatles Story Pier Head housed at the new Merseyferries terminal.

How? The answer is in your post. Liverpool is a city with capital dollars spent on the facility and its upgrades. Graceland is owned by a MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR Private Equity firm. Meaning no capital dollars from the city and no tax dollars being spent on Graceland. Meaning no restrictions. Meaning that Liverpool as a city cares more about the Beatles legacy and the visitors than Memphis and EPE put together.

[vivaelvis]

How many of you have ACTUALLY been to Memphis and seen Graceland? EPE demolished the apartment complex just north but left all the other tacky ran down businesses remain. Hot-Wheels dealership was bought up back in 2008 by Sillerman but is still opened with cars lined up in front. Boulevard Souvenirs property along with the small building next to it next to the Graceland gates was bought up last year but are still there with that tacky wooden fence in front. It's truly like the song, In The Ghetto around there. As a fan and as a former Memphian,. it's embarrassing at how EPE, with all that money, hasn't done much at all since 2006 when they partnered with CKX.

How many of you have been inside of the Heartbreak Hotel, let alone stayed overnight? It's very small and space is extremely limited. The restaurant is more like a cafeteria with a pull-down projector screen like the 1980's that shows Elvis' TV specials. The pool is smaller than some local homes there have. And the Jungle Room Lounge is the size of a 1 car garage at a house. It's a flat out joke of a hotel for such an iconic attraction.

How many of you have had to stand outside on an scorching hot August day when it's 100+ outside with no AC to cool off, or stood outside when it's 30+ and nowhere to get warm? That's the atmosphere at the Plaza and has been for 30 years now. This is 2012, not 1982 anymore. If you cannot see my argument on this by now then it's hopeless.

[King Of The Whole World]

Since the Beatles do not endorse it in anyway, I wonder do they make any money off all of this?

[vivaelvis]

Since the Beatles do not endorse it in anyway, I wonder do they make any money off all of this?

That's just it. The Beatles do NOT make revenue if they do not endorse it. Whereas EPE makes over $50-60 million now on average over the past 5 years. That means they have collected over $250 million in that span.

[KPM]

How? The answer is in your post. Liverpool is a city with capital dollars spent on the facility and its upgrades. Graceland is owned by a MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR Private Equity firm. Meaning no capital dollars from the city and no tax dollars being spent on Graceland. Meaning no restrictions. Meaning that Liverpool as a city cares more about the Beatles legacy and the visitors than Memphis and EPE put together.
Not sure I see the significance - Your interpretation of this is not mine.
I see that Liverpool wanted tourist dollars in their pockets and they had no central point to help bring in those dollars-so they came up with this museum to centralize and maximise profit in the Beatles name that benefit the city and Merseytravel government affiliated which helped with zoning, building codes, property acquisitions etc......win win for Liverpool-this is about money first and honoring the Beatles second and the Beatles themselves get nothing since they are not involved.....beautiful operation. I would not say Liverpools motives were as noble as you seem to think.
No restrictions on what?

[KPM]

How many of you have ACTUALLY been to Memphis and seen Graceland? EPE demolished the apartment complex just north but left all the other tacky ran down businesses remain. Hot-Wheels dealership was bought up back in 2008 by Sillerman but is still opened with cars lined up in front. Boulevard Souvenirs property along with the small building next to it next to the Graceland gates was bought up last year but are still there with that tacky wooden fence in front. It's truly like the song, In The Ghetto around there. As a fan and as a former Memphian,. it's embarrassing at how EPE, with all that money, hasn't done much at all since 2006 when they partnered with CKX.

How many of you have been inside of the Heartbreak Hotel, let alone stayed overnight? It's very small and space is extremely limited. The restaurant is more like a cafeteria with a pull-down projector screen like the 1980's that shows Elvis' TV specials. The pool is smaller than some local homes there have. And the Jungle Room Lounge is the size of a 1 car garage at a house. It's a flat out joke of a hotel for such an iconic attraction.

How many of you have had to stand outside on an scorching hot August day when it's 100+ outside with no AC to cool off, or stood outside when it's 30+ and nowhere to get warm? That's the atmosphere at the Plaza and has been for 30 years now. This is 2012, not 1982 anymore. If you cannot see my argument on this by now then it's hopeless.
You know if you are that unhappy with all these things-there is a simple solution (since nothing EPE has done-or will ever do is likely to meet your standard) just do not go to Graceland, do not buy the trinkets, do not associate with their company-thats what makes America great all citizens have the cholce......you do not even have to live in Memphis which you have complained about also in the past. This country is huge and you can go anywhere you feel better about the community. Thats a thought my friend.

[vivaelvis]

Not sure I see the significance - Your interpretation of this is not mine.
I see that Liverpool wanted tourist dollars in their pockets and they had no central point to help bring in those dollars-so they came up with this museum to centralize and maximise profit in the Beatles name that benefit the city and Merseytravel government affiliated which helped with zoning, building codes, property acquisitions etc......win win for Liverpool-this is about money first and honoring the Beatles second and the Beatles themselves get nothing since they are not involved.....beautiful operation. I would not say Liverpools motives were as noble as you seem to think.
No restrictions on what?

Restrictions on building and zoning codes. EPE does not have that problem that a city development has to go through in order to even have a project approved. Graceland can build whatever they want as long as it's on their land that they own. The only restriction they would have is a height restriction due to the airport just 2 miles directly east of Graceland. I think it's like a 15-story limit in that area.

[King Of The Whole World]

How many of you have ACTUALLY been to Memphis and seen Graceland? EPE demolished the apartment complex just north but left all the other tacky ran down businesses remain. Hot-Wheels dealership was bought up back in 2008 by Sillerman but is still opened with cars lined up in front. Boulevard Souvenirs property along with the small building next to it next to the Graceland gates was bought up last year but are still there with that tacky wooden fence in front. It's truly like the song, In The Ghetto around there. As a fan and as a former Memphian,. it's embarrassing at how EPE, with all that money, hasn't done much at all since 2006 when they partnered with CKX.

How many of you have been inside of the Heartbreak Hotel, let alone stayed overnight? It's very small and space is extremely limited. The restaurant is more like a cafeteria with a pull-down projector screen like the 1980's that shows Elvis' TV specials. The pool is smaller than some local homes there have. And the Jungle Room Lounge is the size of a 1 car garage at a house. It's a flat out joke of a hotel for such an iconic attraction.

How many of you have had to stand outside on an scorching hot August day when it's 100+ outside with no AC to cool off, or stood outside when it's 30+ and nowhere to get warm? That's the atmosphere at the Plaza and has been for 30 years now. This is 2012, not 1982 anymore. If you cannot see my argument on this by now then it's hopeless.

I have been to Graceland twice and will be back in August. So I do know what you are talking about the area around Graceland and the buildings across the street. But I will say again it WILL NOT deter me from going back anytime. I agree it could be fixed up around there a little bit but I tell you the times I have been there everyone seems to be having a great time. I mean everyone knows that the city of Memphis needs to be cleaned up.

I have never stayed at Heartbreak Hotel so I can't answer that.

I have stood outside 2 years ago and it was 118 degrees and it will wear you down. I stood outside for the candle light vigil and it was hot but I enjoyed talking with other Elvis fans. There is nothing that can be done about that besides just not going to that. I do agree that there needs to be an area where people can relax and cool off or warm up but there doesn't need to be a multi-million dollar building for that. You can do something fairly simple to have a relaxation area.

[KPM]

That's just it. The Beatles do NOT make revenue if they do not endorse it. Whereas EPE makes over $50-60 million now on average over the past 5 years. That means they have collected over $250 million in that span.
But EPE/Lisa is the owner of it-along with Apollo are you suggesting that the government should own Graceland? That Lisa is suppose to give up her birthright to make the Graceland expansion bigger, quicker, easier???

[vivaelvis]

You know if you are that unhappy with all these things-there is a simple solution (since nothing EPE has done-or will ever do is likely to meet your standard) just do not go to Graceland, do not buy the trinkets, do not associate with their company-thats what makes America great all citizens have the cholce......you do not even have to live in Memphis which you have complained about also in the past. This country is huge and you can go anywhere you feel better about the community. Thats a thought my friend.

That is the most ridiculous reply of an excuse I think I have ever read on the internet. Really, Ken. That was bad. You're basically saying screw what the fans want. Screw it if they have to be outside. Screw the fact that visitors who go there have to spend a fortune on tickets and get no respect or their money's worth in return. If Disney ran their operation like that and treated did their guest like EPE does, then guess what? They would have been out of business a hellava long time ago. And that's a fact! The real sad part about your post is that it describes exactly how EPE has felt about the fans and the visitors for the past 30 years. Now I understand why you are always backing and standing up for them.

[KPM]

Restrictions on building and zoning codes. EPE does not have that problem that a city development has to go through in order to even have a project approved. Graceland can build whatever they want as long as it's on their land that they own. The only restriction they would have is a height restriction due to the airport just 2 miles directly east of Graceland. I think it's like a 15-story limit in that area.
Wow Memphis must be the only about city in the US that does not have building codes, material restrictions, zoning ordinances, electrical requirements etc all which normally have to be submitted and approved .....my hometown has 45,000 and we have a zoning board, we have inspectors for building sites and requirements for building-Memphis does not have those?
Liverpool is making a mint-because they thought of it first....the Beatles themselves would never start a museum dedicated to their band-just as Elvis would have never done that while alive.

[vivaelvis]

Wow Memphis must be the only about city in the US that does not have building codes, material restrictions, zoning ordinances, electrical requirements etc all which normally have to be submitted and approved .....my hometown has 45,000 and we have a zoning board, we have inspectors for building sites and requirements for building-Memphis does not have those?
Liverpool is making a mint-because they thought of it first....the Beatles themselves would never start a museum dedicated to their band-just as Elvis would have never done that while alive.

I said Graceland does not have to deal with that stuff. Not the city of Memphis.

[KPM]

That is the most ridiculous reply of an excuse I think I have ever read on the internet. Really, Ken. That was bad. You're basically saying screw what the fans want. Screw it if they have to be outside. Screw the fact that visitors who go there have to spend a fortune on tickets and get no respect or their money's worth in return. If Disney ran their operation like that and treated did their guest like EPE does, then guess what? They would have been out of business a hellava long time ago. And that's a fact! The real sad part about your post is that it describes exactly how EPE has felt about the fans and the visitors for the past 30 years. Now I understand why you are always backing and standing up for them.
Wow-launguage my friend.
Secondly you describe things that are common to many parks, attractions and museums around this country. Did you miss my post about standing in line at Disneyland for 4 hours outside waiting for the submarine ride? Or how about 6 Flags and the waits for the big coaster rides?
People choose to do these things-nothing is perfect in life. But the choice is each individuals-that is fact.
I see nothing sad in my post-I state reality as life is.
Ticket prices to everything is high-try going to a pro football game-even baseball tickets in the bleachers are nearing 20 bucks a piece for the worst seats in the stadium. Concert tickets to big acts are hundreds even before scalpers.......yes this is 2012 not 1982.
You have a real ax to grind with EPE that goes beyond respect to fans or Elvis's memory it seems.

[vivaelvis]

I have been to Graceland twice and will be back in August. So I do know what you are talking about the area around Graceland and the buildings across the street. But I will say again it WILL NOT deter me from going back anytime. I agree it could be fixed up around there a little bit but I tell you the times I have been there everyone seems to be having a great time. I mean everyone knows that the city of Memphis needs to be cleaned up.

I have never stayed at Heartbreak Hotel so I can't answer that.

I have stood outside 2 years ago and it was 118 degrees and it will wear you down. I stood outside for the candle light vigil and it was hot but I enjoyed talking with other Elvis fans. There is nothing that can be done about that besides just not going to that. I do agree that there needs to be an area where people can relax and cool off or warm up but there doesn't need to be a multi-million dollar building for that. You can do something fairly simple to have a relaxation area.

What may seem like a small amount is worth a lot more. Nothing is cheap nowadays. Just to do what you recommended would cost at least a couple million. But, it's a needed amenity and should have been included into the renovation of the strip mall when EPE purchased it back in 1983.

The way everything has been set up was fine for that time since they had little to nothing to invest. But that argument cannot be made for the past decade or so. Even in Sillerman's original plan, the most focused additions were money traps like restaurants and multiple hotels and convention space and live entertainment. All that's nice but put the priorities first that will only make those amenities and accessories even nicer down the road. A hotel that is spacious and attractable should be their top priority along with a new visitor's center. Nothing else should even be considered a top priority.

You should never put the buggy in front of the horse, and that's what they were planning.

[KPM]

I said Graceland does not have to deal with that stuff. Not the city of Memphis.
If EPE/Apollo has plans to build, renovate or change buildings-they have to deal with the city inspectors, they have to show their plans make sure they are up to code and then kept up to codel with inspections-so yes someone representing EPE must deal with those things.

[vivaelvis]

Wow-launguage my friend.
Secondly you describe things that are common to many parks, attractions and museums around this country. Did you miss my post about standing in line at Disneyland for 4 hours outside waiting for the submarine ride? Or how about 6 Flags and the waits for the big coaster rides?
People choose to do these things-nothing is perfect in life. But the choice is each individuals-that is fact.
I see nothing sad in my post-I state reality as life is.
Ticket prices to everything is high-try going to a pro football game-even baseball tickets in the bleachers are nearing 20 bucks a piece for the worst seats in the stadium. Concert tickets to big acts are hundreds even before scalpers.......yes this is 2012 not 1982.
You have a real ax to grind with EPE that goes beyond respect to fans or Elvis's memory it seems.

Of course you don't because you wrote it. But I stand behind what I said too. EPE sees it just as you do and that is why they are seeing a decline in tourism.

[King Of The Whole World]

If EPE/Apollo has plans to build, renovate or change buildings-they have to deal with the city inspectors, they have to show their plans make sure they are up to code and then kept up to codel with inspections-so yes someone representing EPE must deal with those things.

Yes that is true. There always has to be someone look over the plans for any buildings, it doesn't matter who owns the land.

[KPM]

Of course you don't because you wrote it. But I stand behind what I said too. EPE sees it just as you do and that is why they are seeing a decline in tourism.
Yes by your estimation they must sit around thinking of ways to make fans miserable-probably as they pull the wings off of flies:P
And yes the rest of the world is seeing a tourism boom the last couple of years with high airline prices and high gas prices not to mention terrorism threats globally-but EPE is the only ones to suffer.
PS do not go to Disneyland-I don't think you will be happy with the long hot waits and prices.;)

[King Of The Whole World]

What may seem like a small amount is worth a lot more. Nothing is cheap nowadays. Just to do what you recommended would cost at least a couple million. But, it's a needed amenity and should have been included into the renovation of the strip mall when EPE purchased it back in 1983.

The way everything has been set up was fine for that time since they had little to nothing to invest. But that argument cannot be made for the past decade or so. Even in Sillerman's original plan, the most focused additions were money traps like restaurants and multiple hotels and convention space and live entertainment. All that's nice but put the priorities first that will only make those amenities and accessories even nicer down the road. A hotel that is spacious and attractable should be their top priority along with a new visitor's center. Nothing else should even be considered a top priority.

You should never put the buggy in front of the horse, and that's what they were planning.

I think to have a nice area for temperature control would be 2 or 3 million but to build a huge visitors center you’re looking around 50 or 80 million dollars.
I think they would probably spend 2 or 3 million over spending 50 million or more.

To build a new hotel with a new visitor centers would cost well over 100 million, probably closer to 200 million. I just don't ever see them doing that. I could see them making small improvements each year but nothing drastic. After all they are open all the time except for Christmas, so when would they be able to build all of this without disrupting the visitors to Graceland.

[KPM]

Nice debate.....having some fun now .....huh kids:D

[debtdbruno]

I think your fighting a losing battle Vivaelvis......

nobody seems to have an axe to grind about EPE like you do. Sure we'd like some changes, but I don't overall have a problem with the area round Graceland. I wouldn't want to go wandering off too far from it....but that could be said of a lot of Cities.

I have stayed at the HH, and we had a great time.......

[King Of The Whole World]

Nice debate.....having some fun now .....huh kids:D

Nothing wrong with having a good discussion that’s for sure.

[rocknroll]

Vivaelvis, what exactly is it that YOU want?

[vivaelvis]

I think to have a nice area for temperature control would be 2 or 3 million but to build a huge visitors center you’re looking around 50 or 80 million dollars.
I think they would probably spend 2 or 3 million over spending 50 million or more.

To build a new hotel with a new visitor centers would cost well over 100 million, probably closer to 200 million. I just don't ever see them doing that. I could see them making small improvements each year but nothing drastic. After all they are open all the time except for Christmas, so when would they be able to build all of this without disrupting the visitors to Graceland.

The original master plan was to invest more than $250 million up to as much as $700 million on the entire overhaul. But that has since been scrapped and a new expansion plan is being mapped out. A new 300-room luxury hotel with meeting space, retail and dining could be accomplished at around $80 million. And that would be in a third-party business partnership with EPE paying a portion of the cost. A new state-of-the-art air-conditioned visitor's center of about 100,000 square feet allowing them to display everything they have now and still have extra addition space for future developments, could be built for as low as $50-60 million. That's a total of 140 million with EPE/CKX/Apollo investing half at around $80 million of the cost for both projects.

Any new development would not affect tours of Graceland nor their current operations as it would all be across the street from it all. Below is a map of the current area taken from space back on August 26, 2011. I have marked where the two new projects are projected to developed according to inside sources. As you can see the hotel property has recently been cleared since the sell of CKX to Apollo. Meaning that they at least still plan to develop a new needed hotel.

Red is for the new hotel property of about 12.5 acres.
Yellow is the location for the new visitors center.

http://i1022.photobucket.com/albums/af344/umtiger42/gracelandarea-2.jpg

[vivaelvis]

Vivaelvis, what exactly is it that YOU want?

It's not about what I want. It's about what THEY need.

[rocknroll]

It's not about what I want. It's about what THEY need.

You seem to want to dictate it and are all up in arms. What do you want?

[rocknroll]

Of course you don't because you wrote it. But I stand behind what I said too. EPE sees it just as you do and that is why they are seeing a decline in tourism.

The decline has more to do with the economy than it does with turning the grounds around Graceland into a circus.

[KPM]

It's not about what I want. It's about what THEY need.
Its about what "you" think they need........whether its actually a necessity is the debate.
As I have pointed out numerous times in numerous similar threads you have started concerning anything that you feel lends creedance to your position
Elvis is the reason for this site, Elvis is the reason people go to Graceland and spend money Elvis has died and Graceland is a physical connection to his life-because he lived 20 years there and loved the home.
Sure we all want to see the home kept up, we all want to see people as comfortable as possible who visit the mansion but if it does not happen "exactly positively 100% to your way of thinking" the world does not end.
People will still come for the reason I stated.
EPE is not trying to punish people anymore than Disney, or Dollyville, or 6 Flags or any other tourist attraction ...you have to wait in lines everywhere
go to the post office, go to the grocery store, go to Universal Studios tours......you wait sometimes in heat and humidity and you pay premium prices.
I went to the new stadium in St Louis to see the Cardinals and waited for an hour just ot get into the stadium another half hour before the gme started at a refreshment stand to get a beer and nachos.....thats a part of life......unless you are rich enough to afford the private boxes with catering and bars.
Let it go-if it happens it happens-if it does not...... Graceland will still be there...Elvis will still gain fans.....he is unique....how else can you explain the hundreds of websites...more fan clubs than any person....still holds numerous records 35 years after his death, still selling better than many new artists who are touring, who are alive in the flesh to help drum up fans and excitement. My younger brother is 11 years younger than me 46-he has been to Graceland 4 times, my other brother at 52 has been twice-both loved it, they did not come out with gloom and doom attitudes because they had to wait, or because the hotel was not nearer the mansion they absolutely loved it....as did their wives and the younger brothers son who is 21.
The thrill of being in that home.... imagining Elvis down the hall or in the Jungle room-magic. No visitor center will ever recreate that feeling....or add to it. If it happens it happens.
Todd Morgan said in an interview-we try to introduce Elvis to new generations but he gains fans the same way he always has and there is no rule of how to do it.

[vivaelvis]

Its about what "you" think they need........whether its actually a necessity is the debate.
As I have pointed out numerous times in numerous similar threads you have started concerning anything that you feel lends creedance to your position
Elvis is the reason for this site, Elvis is the reason people go to Graceland and spend money Elvis has died and Graceland is a physical connection to his life-because he lived 20 years there and loved the home.
Sure we all want to see the home kept up, we all want to see people as comfortable as possible who visit the mansion but if it does not happen "exactly positively 100% to your way of thinking" the world does not end.
People will still come for the reason I stated.
EPE is not trying to punish people anymore than Disney, or Dollyville, or 6 Flags or any other tourist attraction ...you have to wait in lines everywhere
go to the post office, go to the grocery store, go to Universal Studios tours......you wait sometimes in heat and humidity and you pay premium prices.
I went to the new stadium in St Louis to see the Cardinals and waited for an hour just ot get into the stadium another half hour before the gme started at a refreshment stand to get a beer and nachos.....thats a part of life......unless you are rich enough to afford the private boxes with catering and bars.
Let it go-if it happens it happens-if it does not...... Graceland will still be there...Elvis will still gain fans.....he is unique....how else can you explain the hundreds of websites...more fan clubs than any person....still holds numerous records 35 years after his death, still selling better than many new artists who are touring, who are alive in the flesh to help drum up fans and excitement. My younger brother is 11 years younger than me 46-he has been to Graceland 4 times, my other brother at 52 has been twice-both loved it, they did not come out with gloom and doom attitudes because they had to wait, or because the hotel was not nearer the mansion they absolutely loved it....as did their wives and the younger brothers son who is 21.
The thrill of being in that home.... imagining Elvis down the hall or in the Jungle room-magic. No visitor center will ever recreate that feeling....or add to it. If it happens it happens.
Todd Morgan said in an interview-we try to introduce Elvis to new generations but he gains fans the same way he always has and there is no rule of how to do it.

Once again, you and I are so far off on the facts and reality concerning the original topic of this thread. But you're living in fantasy land if you think it'll survive as it is now.

[vivaelvis]

The decline has more to do with the economy than it does with turning the grounds around Graceland into a circus.

A circus? So, you're saying that adding a new hotel that caters to its guests and replacing the tacky looking strip mall-turned-Plaza with a newer more appealing center next to the mansion is a circus? I hardly call that a circus. I call that upgrading and improving and preserving the tourism for the next 20 years or so. What Sillerman had planned would have turned it into a circus, or resemblance to one. But that plan is no longer on the table. They have revised the original master plan. But outside of a new hotel, there's no telling what their plans are now.

To be honest, it already looks like a circus as it is driving down EP Boulevard.

[vivaelvis]

Here's a rendering of the proposed Michael Jackson Museum and Park in Gary, IN. It was to include an 18-hole golf course, theme park with rides, a 200-room luxury hotel, performing arts center, and the childhood home of the Jacksons relocated to the park. At the time of the proposal, it was expected to surpass Graceland and the Whitehouse as the most visited American home in the world. Thankfully that plan is now dead in the water due to the economy and the financial backers backing out of the down payment to the city.

http://img.allvoices.com/thumbs/image/609/480/56785461-artists-rendition.jpg

[King Of The Whole World]

Here's a rendering of the proposed Michael Jackson Museum and Park in Gary, IN. It was to include an 18-hole golf course, theme park with rides, a 200-room luxury hotel, performing arts center, and the childhood home of the Jacksons relocated to the park. At the time of the proposal, it was expected to surpass Graceland and the Whitehouse as the most visited American home in the world. Thankfully that plan is now dead in the water due to the economy and the financial backers backing out of the down payment to the city.

http://img.allvoices.com/thumbs/image/609/480/56785461-artists-rendition.jpg

Well I wouldn't call that a home to surpass Graceland and the Whitehouse, that's like Neverland 2. There is no way of knowing if it would be more of a tourist attraction than Graceland and The Whitehouse. My guess is that it would not have. They probably decided not to build it because they realize that his popularity will not last like Elvis' and to spend that much money would be a huge risk. Besides they still wouldn't have what EPE has and that's Elvis' home. I thought they were going to try and do something with the Neverland ranch.

[vivaelvis]

Well I wouldn't call that a home to surpass Graceland and the Whitehouse, that's like Neverland 2. There is no way of knowing if it would be more of a tourist attraction than Graceland and The Whitehouse. My guess is that it would not have. They probably decided not to build it because they realize that his popularity will not last like Elvis' and to spend that much money would be a huge risk. Besides they still wouldn't have what EPE has and that's Elvis' home. I thought they were going to try and do something with the Neverland ranch.

Michael Jackson sold Neverland so therefor the state and owners couldn't reach agreements. Plus the local residents did not want it to be another Graceland. Interesting though, the same thing is happening in Las Vegas concerning the plan to turn Wayne Newton's mansion into a Graceland West. Newton is being sued over it.

[Snake Eyes]

Michael Jackson sold Neverland so therefor the state and owners couldn't reach agreements. Plus the local residents did not want it to be another Graceland. Interesting though, the same thing is happening in Las Vegas concerning the plan to turn Wayne Newton's mansion into a Graceland West. Newton is being sued over it.

I personally wouldn't visit a MJ or Beatles museum, it just doesn't hold any interest to me at all. How many times have you been to Graceland and would the current conditions stop you from going again?

[Tommy]

Just let me say I am very much enjoying this debate, this is what TCB-World is all about, thank you all very much, I am so happy to see this. :clap:

For me Graceland is ELVIS, and I like the old stores across the street, because nothing has changed, constructing something huge Disney World like, for me would not change anything I would not be interested in visiting a new place, if one should ever be built. I love the old charm of the way it is now, with the old structures and stores across the street.

Nothing can take away the feelings I have for Graceland, it is where ELVIS is and you feel HIM there, is presence is everywhere, building a new and huge attraction would not change anything, it would just be a amusement park to make my more money, for whoever would/might build it.

Graceland is the only place to be, it is ultimate experience, nothing can ever take it place. (y)

[rocknroll]

A circus? So, you're saying that adding a new hotel that caters to its guests and replacing the tacky looking strip mall-turned-Plaza with a newer more appealing center next to the mansion is a circus? I hardly call that a circus. I call that upgrading and improving and preserving the tourism for the next 20 years or so. What Sillerman had planned would have turned it into a circus, or resemblance to one. But that plan is no longer on the table. They have revised the original master plan. But outside of a new hotel, there's no telling what their plans are now.

To be honest, it already looks like a circus as it is driving down EP Boulevard.

You swing, and you miss. I didn't mean circus in a literal sense. What you propose is trying to keep Elvis up with the Joneses and Graceland is a different kind of animal when compared to the gaudy and pricey ripoffs that are the Beatles museum and proposed Michael Jackson attraction. Absolutely, upgrade the hotel and the venues across the street, but no need to tear down the entire surrounding area to build some sort of ridiculous attraction that takes away from the true meaning of visiting Graceland. That is not needed.

You keep saying Graceland will not survive. How long do you give it before they tear it down and turn it into a parking lot?

[King Of The Whole World]

Just let me say I am very much enjoying this debate, this is what TCB-World is all about, thank you all very much, I am so happy to see this. :clap:

For me Graceland is ELVIS, and I like the old stores across the street, because nothing has changed, constructing something huge Disney World like, for me would not change anything I would not be interested in visiting a new place, if one should ever be built. I love the old charm of the way it is now, with the old structures and stores across the street.

Nothing can take away the feelings I have for Graceland, it is where ELVIS is and you feel HIM there, is presence is everywhere, building a new and huge attraction would not change anything, it would just be a amusement park to make my more money, for whoever would/might build it.

Graceland is the only place to be, it is ultimate experience, nothing can ever take it place. (y)

That's the way I feel. Amen There is something about the charm of the old buildings that I would miss if they tore it all down just to build something new.

[King Of The Whole World]

You swing, and you miss. I didn't mean circus in a literal sense. What you propose is trying to keep Elvis up with the Joneses and Graceland is a different kind of animal when compared to the gaudy and pricey ripoffs that are the Beatles museum and proposed Michael Jackson attraction. Absolutely, upgrade the hotel and the venues across the street, but no need to tear down the entire surrounding area to build some sort of ridiculous attraction that takes away from the true meaning of visiting Graceland. That is not needed.

You keep saying Graceland will not survive. How long do you give it before they tear it down and turn it into a parking lot?

I think that is the nail on the head for me.

[King Of The Whole World]

Michael Jackson sold Neverland so therefor the state and owners couldn't reach agreements. Plus the local residents did not want it to be another Graceland. Interesting though, the same thing is happening in Las Vegas concerning the plan to turn Wayne Newton's mansion into a Graceland West. Newton is being sued over it.

I have heard about Newton and I don't quite understand the story of him being sued. Something about they paid him millions of dollars for his ranch and now he has refused to move out. He says they never bought his ranch for him to move out. I think Newton has had a huge amount of debt.

[Diane]

Just let me say I am very much enjoying this debate, this is what TCB-World is all about, thank you all very much, I am so happy to see this. :clap:

For me Graceland is ELVIS, and I like the old stores across the street, because nothing has changed, constructing something huge Disney World like, for me would not change anything I would not be interested in visiting a new place, if one should ever be built. I love the old charm of the way it is now, with the old structures and stores across the street.

Nothing can take away the feelings I have for Graceland, it is where ELVIS is and you feel HIM there, is presence is everywhere, building a new and huge attraction would not change anything, it would just be a amusement park to make my more money, for whoever would/might build it.

Graceland is the only place to be, it is ultimate experience, nothing can ever take it place. (y)

That says it all for me. Graceland is the only place I would care to visit.....that is where Elvis' spirit is, his home, where he lived and loved to be, his personal sanctuary. No new fangled building could ever replace anything like that.

[Tommy]

That says it all for me. Graceland is the only place I would care to visit.....that is where Elvis' spirit is, his home, where he lived and loved to be, his personal sanctuary. No new fangled building could ever replace anything like that.

:clap::clap::clap::clap:..............(y)

[KPM]

Once again, you and I are so far off on the facts and reality concerning the original topic of this thread. But you're living in fantasy land if you think it'll survive as it is now.
Once again ELVIS has Survived all the things I listed going back to 56-when "naysayers preached gloom and doom"
YOU said in reply ......you could not disagree with those points........yet seconds later you did?
The basis premise of making those points was to show against all odd........all naysayers.......Elvis alive and dead has survived.
Your premise will end up another notch on that list. As did the Sillerman savoir drum beat in 05.
You want Elvis survival and legacy to be dependent upon buildings- state of the art technology, remixes and Ghost Elvis projected with morphed faces..............I KNOW his survival is his ability to reach people with talent and charisma-fantasy world?-
Facts and reality........as YOU see them.........my facts go back to 1956......which you said you could not disagree with.
Curious?

[KPM]

There is a Thesis done by James w. Davidson entitled:
"The Pilgimage to Elvis Presleys Graceland-A Study of the Meanings of Place"
Interesting insight into the whys of fans/tourists that travel to Graceland to visit..........the Meanings of Place.
Here is a short excerpt from the intro for the piece:
The field material gathered in Memphis was very rich in detail and laden with emotion. It revealed the similarities and differences between two groups of visitors: pilgrims and tourists. Whereas both groups admired Presley, the meanings they bestowed upon him and the places in his life varied greatly. Tourists tended to be passive observers in a sterile setting; pilgrims found a tremendous vitality in that same environment.

Expectations which travelers have of their destination’s aesthetic qualities are not related to the meanings which they assign to that place. One’s perceptions of the heroic figure influences the meaning of place, and in turn the assigned significance of place affects one’s environmental experiences there. The pilgrimage in popular culture is not likely to be a passing fad, because it fulfills a human need.........

[vivaelvis]

You swing, and you miss. I didn't mean circus in a literal sense. What you propose is trying to keep Elvis up with the Joneses and Graceland is a different kind of animal when compared to the gaudy and pricey ripoffs that are the Beatles museum and proposed Michael Jackson attraction. Absolutely, upgrade the hotel and the venues across the street, but no need to tear down the entire surrounding area to build some sort of ridiculous attraction that takes away from the true meaning of visiting Graceland. That is not needed.

You keep saying Graceland will not survive. How long do you give it before they tear it down and turn it into a parking lot?



The problem with remodeling or expanding the current hotel and center is that there's no room to do that. The HH is surrounded on the back side by the RV Park. The lobby area is too small to expand without demolishing portions of the hotel and that would be worthless when they could invest the same amount it would take to expand into a new hotel with better attractable appeal such as meeting space, which leads to more visitors and more dollars.

The Visitor's Center now is limited in size due to there being a big creek directly behind it. If they were to even consider expanding the center they would have to get the city to fill in the creek and that would mean tax dollars. In case you're not aware, Memphis is now in a $89 million dollar budget deficit with no room to spend any tax dollars.

So, in other words, it would be in EPE's best interest to invest the money into a new hotel and a new center relocated next to Graceland. That would save them hundreds of thousands of dollars that they spend yearly on gas for the tour buses to travel back and forth for 8 hours a day, 6 days a week.

Then they could clear off the land across the street and use it for anything they wanted to, such as an Elvis Music Festival event like the Beale Street Music festival in downtown that draws hundreds of thousands a year.

[vivaelvis]

That's the way I feel. Amen There is something about the charm of the old buildings that I would miss if they tore it all down just to build something new.

There's nothing at all "charming" about the current strip mall/Plaza. It's very tacky and outdated for such a historic landmark. That thing wasn't even a part of the Graceland world when Elvis lived there. It was a drug store then expanded AFTER he died.

[vivaelvis]

What Graceland needs the most is a Elvis Presley Learning Center where visitors (mainly casual fans, curious and youthful guests) can learn and discover who Elvis Aron Presley really was and how he has influenced generation after generation in music, style, fashion and was the leader of the Rock & Roll revolution in the 50's that changed the world. This is what The Beatles-Story does in Liverpool. There's no sense at all for EPE not to have one by now. (n)(n)

Elvis is the most influential but also the most misunderstood and criticized artist, performer and entertainer of all time. A Learning Center could go a long way in changing opinions and views towards him concerning race relations, the "music thief" assumption and his importance and rightful place in music history. It needs to be driven home hard too that Elvis is the TOP SELLING RECORDING ARTIST OR GROUP IN MUSIC HISTORY! Otherwise the youth will assume it's Jackson, The Beatles or even Garth Brooks. But, as we all know, it's not all about the man, it's mostly about the image and the money when it comes to EPE.:angry:

[King Of The Whole World]

What Graceland needs the most is a Elvis Presley Learning Center where visitors (mainly casual fans, curious and youthful guests) can learn and discover who Elvis Aron Presley really was and how he has influenced generation after generation in music, style, fashion and was the leader of the Rock & Roll revolution in the 50's that changed the world. This is what The Beatles-Story does in Liverpool. There's no sense at all for EPE not to have one by now. (n)(n)

Elvis is the most influential but also the most misunderstood and criticized artist, performer and entertainer of all time. A Learning Center could go a long way in changing opinions and views towards him concerning race relations, the "music thief" assumption and his importance and rightful place in music history. It needs to be driven home hard too that Elvis is the TOP SELLING RECORDING ARTIST OR GROUP IN MUSIC HISTORY! Otherwise the youth will assume it's Jackson, The Beatles or even Garth Brooks. But, as we all know, it's not all about the man, it's mostly about the image and the money when it comes to EPE.:angry:

I would agree that it would be nice to have a Learning Center and I would add an interactive type center. You could do some of that without a lot of money. Some of that could be done by remodeling the existing buildings.

To a person with some intellect walking in the "Hall of Gold" should tell them that Elvis is the number 1 selling artist of all time. Everywhere you look there are awards and gold/platinum records everywhere. I agree that they do not promote this aspect of Elvis enough, I think until there is an actual total for record sales he will not be considered the all time record sales holder, which a complete total will probably never happen.

I do agree with you that there needs to be updates for sure but I don't know about a 100,000 square foot building needs to be done. I think the "magic" of Elvis and Graceland is what draws people to see his home.

[vivaelvis]

I would agree that it would be nice to have a Learning Center and I would add an interactive type center. You could do some of that without a lot of money. Some of that could be done by remodeling the existing buildings.

To a person with some intellect walking in the "Hall of Gold" should tell them that Elvis is the number 1 selling artist of all time. Everywhere you look there are awards and gold/platinum records everywhere. I agree that they do not promote this aspect of Elvis enough, I think until there is an actual total for record sales he will not be considered the all time record sales holder, which a complete total will probably never happen.

I do agree with you that there needs to be updates for sure but I don't know about a 100,000 square foot building needs to be done. I think the "magic" of Elvis and Graceland is what draws people to see his home.

The 100,000 square foot center I mentioned would include placing the two planes indoors, adding space to a larger automobile museum, expand the museum space which is heavily needed, expand the food court also needed and having spacious areas for visitors to sit and stay cool or warm during seasons. Also, I would like to see them do a LED video board of about 20X10 feet inside that shows Elvis concerts and videos on the big screen.

One thing EPE should also concentrate on is expanding their business to feature other museums throughout the world and not just focus solely on Graceland. I would like to see them build an Elvis Experience museum in Las Vegas of about 40,000 square feet, one in Orlando to tie in with Universal Studios and the Disney World crowd. And do one in Dubai to bring new interest from the Middle East. They would be thematic attractions and feature special traveling and permanent exhibits, interactive attractions for kids such as a 4D theater, an Elvis-themed eatery and gift shops. Kind of a semi-Graceland. If EPE did this, they could triple annual income and could make up for not owning the music and movie rights. It would take a lot to invest, sure, but that's what Apollo is for. Investing money into potential long term projects. Disney didn't become the ultimate tourist destination by sitting idle. They expanded and created new developments and properties and now look at them. A multi-billion dollar industry. That could be EPE if they had the right leadership.

I know Ken will try and downplay this and resort back to the Sillerman days, but that is irrelevant now.

[King Of The Whole World]

The 100,000 square foot center I mentioned would include placing the two planes indoors, adding space to a larger automobile museum, expand the museum space which is heavily needed, expand the food court also needed and having spacious areas for visitors to sit and stay cool or warm during seasons. Also, I would like to see them do a LED video board of about 20X10 feet inside that shows Elvis concerts and videos on the big screen.

One thing EPE should also concentrate on is expanding their business to feature other museums throughout the world and not just focus solely on Graceland. I would like to see them build an Elvis Experience museum in Las Vegas of about 40,000 square feet, one in Orlando to tie in with Universal Studios and the Disney World crowd. And do one in Dubai to bring new interest from the Middle East. They would be thematic attractions and feature special traveling and permanent exhibits, interactive attractions for kids such as a 4D theater, an Elvis-themed eatery and gift shops. Kind of a semi-Graceland. If EPE did this, they could triple annual income and could make up for not owning the music and movie rights. It would take a lot to invest, sure, but that's what Apollo is for. Investing money into potential long term projects. Disney didn't become the ultimate tourist destination by sitting idle. They expanded and created new developments and properties and now look at them. A multi-billion dollar industry. That could be EPE if they had the right leadership.

I know Ken will try and downplay this and resort back to the Sillerman days, but that is irrelevant now.

Those things would be nice but I think they have placed some things in museums around the US. They might be trying to test the waters if something like that would be of interest to people. Something might have been built in Vegas if the Cirque Du Soleil would have succeeded.

I still say that I don't believe that the buildings across the street ever take away from the experience, at least not for me. I will love every minute of it in August and will go back the next year if I'm lucky. I still say that the reason people go to Graceland is because you can picture Elvis in every room, not what is across the street.

I'm not against if they want to build a nice hotel and a convention center, but it won't make me want to go Graceland more.

[vivaelvis]

Those things would be nice but I think they have placed some things in museums around the US. They might be trying to test the waters if something like that would be of interest to people. Something might have been built in Vegas if the Cirque Du Soleil would have succeeded.

I still say that I don't believe that the buildings across the street ever take away from the experience, at least not for me. I will love every minute of it in August and will go back the next year if I'm lucky. I still say that the reason people go to Graceland is because you can picture Elvis in every room, not what is across the street.

I'm not against if they want to build a nice hotel and a convention center, but it won't make me want to go Graceland more.

When EPE loaned the Elvis artifacts to the Newseum Museum in Washington, DC it set attendance records for visitors to the Newseum. That alone should have given EPE an indication of Elvis staying power outside of Memphis and Graceland.

The Cirque show should have never been at the new ritzy Aria at City Center to start with. The place is for the rich. They should have had the show at MGM or Planet Hollywood as it would have had a much better chance to survive.

I noticed you said "convention center" and I'm starting to wonder if some are getting that and a visitor's center mixed up? The current Graceland Plaza with the planes, ticket areas and car museum, is a visitor's center. A convention center would be for business and company gatherings for meetings, weddings, and conventions, etc. Plus, they are large in size too.

[KPM]

Those things would be nice but I think they have placed some things in museums around the US. They might be trying to test the waters if something like that would be of interest to people. Something might have been built in Vegas if the Cirque Du Soleil would have succeeded.

I still say that I don't believe that the buildings across the street ever take away from the experience, at least not for me. I will love every minute of it in August and will go back the next year if I'm lucky. I still say that the reason people go to Graceland is because you can picture Elvis in every room, not what is across the street.

I'm not against if they want to build a nice hotel and a convention center, but it won't make me want to go Graceland more.
Exactly correct-its not the idea of doing things with taste that add to visiting Graceland....as they happen fine...it s the drum beat of doom about the future of Graceland if it stays as it is.
I got curious about other homes of historic significance in the US....according the the White House about 614,000 visitors a year come to see the Presidents house including Heads of State, people who attend White House events, and tourists.
Illinois says about 400,000 visit Lincolns Historic Home in Illinois.
Washingtons huge Mount Vernon estate and museum have around 1,000,000 a year,
All of these places have been in existence and operating for many many many more years than Graceland-they are the homes of our elite presidential leaders over time and Elvis's home ranks among them as tops in the country.......that will not change whether huge expansions take place or whether small incremental things happen over time......not fantasy.
I do not deal in fantasy (nor do I offend anyone by claiming they do) I deal in what has been which gives you the logic of expectancy for the future.

[rocknroll]

What Graceland needs the most is a Elvis Presley Learning Center where visitors (mainly casual fans, curious and youthful guests) can learn and discover who Elvis Aron Presley really was and how he has influenced generation after generation in music, style, fashion and was the leader of the Rock & Roll revolution in the 50's that changed the world.

Sure, absolutely that is needed. But not at Graceland.

[rocknroll]

The problem with remodeling or expanding the current hotel and center is that there's no room to do that. The HH is surrounded on the back side by the RV Park. The lobby area is too small to expand without demolishing portions of the hotel and that would be worthless when they could invest the same amount it would take to expand into a new hotel with better attractable appeal such as meeting space, which leads to more visitors and more dollars.

The Visitor's Center now is limited in size due to there being a big creek directly behind it. If they were to even consider expanding the center they would have to get the city to fill in the creek and that would mean tax dollars. In case you're not aware, Memphis is now in a $89 million dollar budget deficit with no room to spend any tax dollars.

So, in other words, it would be in EPE's best interest to invest the money into a new hotel and a new center relocated next to Graceland. That would save them hundreds of thousands of dollars that they spend yearly on gas for the tour buses to travel back and forth for 8 hours a day, 6 days a week.

Then they could clear off the land across the street and use it for anything they wanted to, such as an Elvis Music Festival event like the Beale Street Music festival in downtown that draws hundreds of thousands a year.

There is plenty of room to remodel and make things better/more modern/more comfortable in the current footprint. They SHOULD NOT do ANYTHING on the same side of the street as Graceland.

[KPM]

The 100,000 square foot center I mentioned would include placing the two planes indoors, adding space to a larger automobile museum, expand the museum space which is heavily needed, expand the food court also needed and having spacious areas for visitors to sit and stay cool or warm during seasons. Also, I would like to see them do a LED video board of about 20X10 feet inside that shows Elvis concerts and videos on the big screen.

One thing EPE should also concentrate on is expanding their business to feature other museums throughout the world and not just focus solely on Graceland. I would like to see them build an Elvis Experience museum in Las Vegas of about 40,000 square feet, one in Orlando to tie in with Universal Studios and the Disney World crowd. And do one in Dubai to bring new interest from the Middle East. They would be thematic attractions and feature special traveling and permanent exhibits, interactive attractions for kids such as a 4D theater, an Elvis-themed eatery and gift shops. Kind of a semi-Graceland. If EPE did this, they could triple annual income and could make up for not owning the music and movie rights. It would take a lot to invest, sure, but that's what Apollo is for. Investing money into potential long term projects. Disney didn't become the ultimate tourist destination by sitting idle. They expanded and created new developments and properties and now look at them. A multi-billion dollar industry. That could be EPE if they had the right leadership.

I know Ken will try and downplay this and resort back to the Sillerman days, but that is irrelevant now.
No my friend the past is not irrelevant-it shows you the problems, victories, mistakes, pitfalls, and fallacy of thinking that led to today....sure you could build things all over the world.....what was said of Sillerman now is being said about Apollo-they have the deep pockets.....so if you are correct Apollo will be jumping at the chance to spend 3-5 hundred million and build all these things in Vegas, Orlando, Dubai heck lets throw in China... they have individuals who research the best moves for their companies-surely they have thought about some of your ideas-they surely did not buy CKX/EPE to not investigate what is best for EPEs end of the company.............................so if you are correct we will see the money start to flow out of Apollos pockets.
As far as Disneyland....we can compare Disney the man to Elvis the man.........but people visit Graceland and Disneyland for totally different reasons-You can compare the long waits in lines, the ticket prices, even souveniur sales.... but people visit Disneyland to ride rides, to see Goofy and Mickey, to see their kids eyes as they experience the wonder of Disneyland theme park-Graceland is not a "theme park" it is the historically recognized home of a cultural musical icon and visitors are not likely to find many things as exciting or fullfilling as walking through the home itself.

[vivaelvis]

Wow! The timing of this article is weird. We are having this very discussion about them NOT doing anything and today CKX announces expansion to the Graceland area!(y)(y) Also, CKX is going to be renamed Core Media Group under its new owners, Apollo Global Management. With their track record, I'm confident that Apollo won't drop the ball the way Sillerman did.

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/american-idol-owners-plan-elvis-presley-projects-show-revamp-20120531

[vivaelvis]

There is plenty of room to remodel and make things better/more modern/more comfortable in the current footprint. They SHOULD NOT do ANYTHING on the same side of the street as Graceland.

The plan has always been, since Graceland originally opened publicly, was to buy up the land adjacent (north) to Graceland and develop the visitor complex properties there along with the new hotel. EPE almost had a deal done with a hotel partner as far back as 1987 and even made an announcement on it, but it fell through at the last minute. The 2 biggest problems with having it where it is today and has been since 1983 is the heavy traffic flow (I'm amazed that nobody has ever been hit crossing that street or the buses have never been hit either by drunken or wild drivers), and gas cost issues. EPE spends a fortune on gas for their many tour buses that they operate daily per year. Having the center on the same side will eliminate both problems at once.

[KPM]

Wow! The timing of this article is weird. We are having this very discussion about them NOT doing anything and today CKX announces expansion to the Graceland area!(y)(y) Also, CKX is going to be renamed Core Media Group under its new owners, Apollo Global Management. With their track record, I'm confident that Apollo won't drop the ball the way Sillerman did.

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/american-idol-owners-plan-elvis-presley-projects-show-revamp-20120531
To quote the article:
CKx, which will change its name to Core Media Group, has especially big plans in store for Presley: an upgrade of the Graceland museum is in the works, as well as a possible drama series based on the singer's early life. Core is also in talks with Sony about a potential duets album, which would pair contemporary singers with Presley in much the same way that past duets albums have done with Frank Sinatra. A subsequent tour may see singers performing alongside an Elvis hologram.........
It really tells us nothing new-it states in broad terms some form of "upgrade" is in the works..........we have known that since 2005..it is the size, shape and scope of the "upgrade" that is the debate.
I actually liked the idea of a drama series based on the singers early life a little more interesting-how could they do it better than the ABC mini series Elvis done some years back?

[vivaelvis]

To quote the article:
CKx, which will change its name to Core Media Group, has especially big plans in store for Presley: an upgrade of the Graceland museum is in the works, as well as a possible drama series based on the singer's early life. Core is also in talks with Sony about a potential duets album, which would pair contemporary singers with Presley in much the same way that past duets albums have done with Frank Sinatra. A subsequent tour may see singers performing alongside an Elvis hologram.........
It really tells us nothing new-it states in broad terms some form of "upgrade" is in the works..........we have known that since 2005..it is the size, shape and scope of the "upgrade" that is the debate.
I actually liked the idea of a drama series based on the singers early life a little more interesting-how could they do it better than the ABC mini series Elvis done some years back?

I cannot understand why you just love to find the little negatives in EVERYTHING that someone posts. Especially my posts.:hmm: For once try and find the positive to something. I didn't say what it would be, I didn't say how much it would cost or when it would start or finish. I posted a link to point out the coincidence that we're having this discussion/debate and a day later they come out with this article out of nowhere. Yes, it says "in the works" which also means it is being laid out to finalize. And since they already have an idea on what they've wanted to do and what the needs are, I'm pretty sure they won't have to go back to the drawing board. "In the works" could also mean that they are putting together the funding, about to announce or unveil their new plans.

I have pointed out on here many times before that Apollo is WELL KNOWN for INVESTING capital funding into its assets during rough economical times. And like I have said before also, Sillerman and Apollo cannot be compared at all.

Sillerman was ONE MAN who created his own little company from ground up of a few entertainment properties. None of which were mega buck makers, including EPE and IDOL. He depended on IDOL and Graceland for income to build up his portfolio and that is NOT a good business decision. He admitted himself that he jumped into it head first without knowing much about the development side of the business.

Apollo, unlike CKX, owns over 50 MAJOR US and world wide corporations, including some fortune 500 companies. That alone is much more than CKX had in its portfolio (a total of 6 to be exact). Then you factor in that they have raised capital and invested more than $80 BILLION DOLLARS into those properties since the 1990's. AGM just also came off a big profitable quarter in which their properties earned more than they lost.

Bottom line is that comparing the two is like comparing apples to oranges, no matter how you slice it.

[King Of The Whole World]

Wow! The timing of this article is weird. We are having this very discussion about them NOT doing anything and today CKX announces expansion to the Graceland area!(y)(y) Also, CKX is going to be renamed Core Media Group under its new owners, Apollo Global Management. With their track record, I'm confident that Apollo won't drop the ball the way Sillerman did.

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/american-idol-owners-plan-elvis-presley-projects-show-revamp-20120531

Yes it is weird that we have been talking about this very thing. They do say "upgrade" so who knows what that means. What I find the most interesting is that they are saying American Idol may not be around much longer but this Elvis guy doesn't go away. So let's invest some money over here, Elvis will make us money.

I would like to see a new mini series but I agree with Ken the one they had many years ago was a great one and that was cancelled.

[vivaelvis]

Yes it is weird that we have been talking about this very thing. They do say "upgrade" so who knows what that means. What I find the most interesting is that they are saying American Idol may not be around much longer but this Elvis guy doesn't go away. So let's invest some money over here, Elvis will make us money.

I would like to see a new mini series but I agree with Ken the one they had many years ago was a great one and that was cancelled.

The Elvis Series was great but at times boring and lacked adventure and drama. It also ran up against The Simpsons in the same time slot. Bad move then by ABC to challenge the top rated show on television. Plus, Elvis' fandom in 1993 wasn't that strong to the youngsters as it is today. So maybe it would better today in a time slot that doesn't have much competition.

I would assume that the "upgrade" comment probably means a new hotel, new visitor's center, museum, etc.

[KPM]

I cannot understand why you just love to find the little negatives in EVERYTHING that someone posts. Especially my posts.:hmm: For once try and find the positive to something. I didn't say what it would be, I didn't say how much it would cost or when it would start or finish. I posted a link to point out the coincidence that we're having this discussion/debate and a day later they come out with this article out of nowhere. Yes, it says "in the works" which also means it is being laid out to finalize. And since they already have an idea on what they've wanted to do and what the needs are, I'm pretty sure they won't have to go back to the drawing board. "In the works" could also mean that they are putting together the funding, about to announce or unveil their new plans.

I have pointed out on here many times before that Apollo is WELL KNOWN for INVESTING capital funding into its assets during rough economical times. And like I have said before also, Sillerman and Apollo cannot be compared at all.

Sillerman was ONE MAN who created his own little company from ground up of a few entertainment properties. None of which were mega buck makers, including EPE and IDOL. He depended on IDOL and Graceland for income to build up his portfolio and that is NOT a good business decision. He admitted himself that he jumped into it head first without knowing much about the development side of the business.

Apollo, unlike CKX, owns over 50 MAJOR US and world wide corporations, including some fortune 500 companies. That alone is much more than CKX had in its portfolio (a total of 6 to be exact). Then you factor in that they have raised capital and invested more than $80 BILLION DOLLARS into those properties since the 1990's. AGM just also came off a big profitable quarter in which their properties earned more than they lost.

Bottom line is that comparing the two is like comparing apples to oranges, no matter how you slice it.
I do not find the negatives-I see the obvious my friend. Since 2005 we have heard these type announcements...so you learn from the past. Your own term "still in the works" speaks volume on this subject.
Proof is in the pudding is an old wives expression which more or less means-sure you can claim the pudding is the best ever made-but the proof is in the results and taste.
When CKX was purchased by Apollo we all knew some form of upgrade, renovation, expansion etc was supposedly coming.........in one of other "similar threads on this subject" a quote much like this was given which said they were going to work on making the Graceland experience a more enjoyable one for visitors by improvements which were unspecified (I can look through the old threads if you want to find this)
So this is not a new announcement-its a repeat of what we already new.
Now Viva if they had been specific, it they had said by "Upgrades to the Graceland museum we mean........" and then given a list of what those upgrades were and the amount of money to be spent etc.......that would be news....
As far as Apollo yes they are an inpressive investment group and they manage about 70 billion of other peoples money, but their own companies worth is around 5-6 billion....yes an impressive sum but that is their money for all their operations not just CKX/Core Media Group (smart idea to change the name-CKX probably has a negative thought attached to it for some)
You see my interest in not in the expansion-if it happens and it is done well and it does not hurt Graceland fine-I'm happy that you are happy.
But when you claim Elvis can not survive without these things-that is a different thing all together-Graceland will not close if everything you want is not done.......I think you have seen from the majority of people who have commented here-they feel pretty much the same way....it is not essential to the visits we make to Graceland........people do not become fans of any artist by seeing the homes or state of the art facilities built to honor them...as Todd Morgan said with truth......Elvis gains fans like he always has.........
Most will not make more trips to Memphis because of a new center, a larger flat screen for viewing his films, all the things you think are essential
and I have never said "no upgrades, no expansion" I have said great if it happens, wonderful for those who need those things....
The proof will be in the pudding-whether its apple pudding or orange-the proof is the end result.

[KPM]

The Elvis Series was great but at times boring and lacked adventure and drama. It also ran up against The Simpsons in the same time slot. Bad move then by ABC to challenge the top rated show on television. Plus, Elvis' fandom in 1993 wasn't that strong to the youngsters as it is today. So maybe it would better today in a time slot that doesn't have much competition.

I would assume that the "upgrade" comment probably means a new hotel, new visitor's center, museum, etc.
You see because I do not agree with you...you will now say I am just being negative because its you.;)
My kids were about 6-8-10 and they enjoyed the show with my wife and I....there was plenty of drama IMO and you can not make things up to make the show more adventurous when its suppose to be biographical (you can use creative license but you can not have fist fights every 10 minutes or car chases to bolster adventure)
But that is not a negative comment-it is honest opinion.....just as King of the World gave his in saying he felt it was great.
You are correct about the Simpsons being opposite and that being a problem.

[rocknroll]

I would assume that the "upgrade" comment probably means a new hotel, new visitor's center, museum, etc.

It could also mean new paint. Let's hope there is an upgrade that is tastefull, and not over done. No need to demolish buildings and homes as well as uproot trees on the Graceland side of the street. I think the majority of the fans appreciate there is still some semblance of the neighborhood that surrounded Graceland when Elvis lived there.

[KPM]

Apollo Global Management
Founder(s) Leon Black, John Hannan, Marc Rowan, Craig Cogut, Arthur Bilger
Headquarters New York City, United States
Key people Henry Silverman, Marc Rowan, Josh Harris, Marc Spilker
Products Private equity funds, credit funds, real estate funds
AUM $75.2 billion (2011)
Total assets $5.3 billion
Website www.agm.com

[King Of The Whole World]

It could also mean new paint. Let's hope there is an upgrade that is tastefull, and not over done. No need to demolish buildings and homes as well as uproot trees on the Graceland side of the street. I think the majority of the fans appreciate there is still some semblance of the neighborhood that surrounded Graceland when Elvis lived there.

That's a good point I haven't thought about that. It is nice to see trees around to create a little portion of how it use to be.

[vivaelvis]

Your own term "still in the works" speaks volume on this subject.



Definition for "in the works"- something that is being planned right now; as we speak.. www.learnamericanenglishonline.com/American_Slang/America…

[vivaelvis]

It could also mean new paint. Let's hope there is an upgrade that is tastefull, and not over done. No need to demolish buildings and homes as well as uproot trees on the Graceland side of the street. I think the majority of the fans appreciate there is still some semblance of the neighborhood that surrounded Graceland when Elvis lived there.

Rock, I understand your point. However the blight that borders EP Boulevard just feet from the gates northwards is an eyesore and has been for a long time. I am referring to the souvenir shop known as Boulevard Souvenirs who EPE bought up their property from along with HotWheels Auto Dealership next to it. They have already demolished the apartment complex just north of there which already looks better. But the rest of that strip is tacky and ghetto-ish and it's property owned by EPE which has no excuse for it to still be like that.

[KPM]

Definition for "in the works"- something that is being planned right now; as we speak.. www.learnamericanenglishonline.com/American_Slang/America…
Yes my friend that phrase means exactly what you say-and even if the planning is taking place right now as we speak-that planning could go on for just today......or a couple years and then after the planning is over-the proof will be in what that planning brings.
Sillerman planned, and planned, and started again, and started a Vegas plan, etc and then EPE planned that SIllermans plan would eventually be concrete in nature and they based their plans on Sillermans concrete plans which were being planned at that moment in time-in their now.
Its not that we have any reason to doubt, ;) things have gone so smoothly since 2005 first annoucements of coming things;)
Apollo could mean little to nothing in this annoucement-or as you say it could be huge hotels, visitor centers.........maybe even Dubai!

[KPM]

You know I just had a thought-why not move Graceland from Memphis-could be done.......they moved the London Bridge to America.
Why not find someplace that everyone agrees upon with a 10 mile radius of free space then all the horrid things in Memphis could be bypassed, construction could be easier, Memphis would not have to put up with all the tourist business and problems of traffic near the mansion and with all the new plans convention centers, hotels, off site museums ........Memphis will hate the new mass of people traffic and commotion so moving Graceland makes it easier for the city and easier for Apollo to follow thru on its expansion. nudge;)nudge nudge;):P

[vivaelvis]

You know I just had a thought-why not move Graceland from Memphis-could be done.......they moved the London Bridge to America.
Why not find someplace that everyone agrees upon with a 10 mile radius of free space then all the horrid things in Memphis could be bypassed, construction could be easier, Memphis would not have to put up with all the tourist business and problems of traffic near the mansion and with all the new plans convention centers, hotels, off site museums ........Memphis will hate the new mass of people traffic and commotion so moving Graceland makes it easier for the city and easier for Apollo to follow thru on its expansion. nudge;)nudge nudge;):P

I'm taking this is an attempt at sarcasm. No way, no how could that EVER be possible nor feasible. It's not just the home but the entire grounds can't be moved, nor can the graves. Graceland is fine where it is. They own over 120 acres of land now. There's plenty of land to do what is needed and what they wish to do, whatever that may be. Land and space is NOT the problem.

[KPM]

I'm taking this is an attempt at sarcasm. No way, no how could that EVER be possible nor feasible. It's not just the home but the entire grounds can't be moved, nor can the graves. Graceland is fine where it is. They own over 120 acres of land now. There's plenty of land to do what is needed and what they wish to do, whatever that may be. Land and space is NOT the problem.
Its a joke-lighten up!
But you left out an important point as to why is could never be possible-because the fans want to visit exactly where Elvis lived and would not stand for it. The letter and e-mail campaign would be an avalanche on Apollo and EPE.

[King Of The Whole World]

You know I just had a thought-why not move Graceland from Memphis-could be done.......they moved the London Bridge to America.
Why not find someplace that everyone agrees upon with a 10 mile radius of free space then all the horrid things in Memphis could be bypassed, construction could be easier, Memphis would not have to put up with all the tourist business and problems of traffic near the mansion and with all the new plans convention centers, hotels, off site museums ........Memphis will hate the new mass of people traffic and commotion so moving Graceland makes it easier for the city and easier for Apollo to follow thru on its expansion. nudge;)nudge nudge;):P

They could move it to my backyard. (y)

[KPM]

They could move it to my backyard. (y)
Well thats possible-but we may need a few references and a deposit of oh.....a couple hundred million dollars.:D

[King Of The Whole World]

Well thats possible-but we may need a few references and a deposit of oh.....a couple hundred million dollars.:D

Oh I was hoping you wouldn't ask for that.

[Tommy]

Oh I was hoping you wouldn't ask for that.
:lmfao::lmfao:...................(y)

[Diane]

You know I just had a thought-why not move Graceland from Memphis-could be done.......they moved the London Bridge to America.
Why not find someplace that everyone agrees upon with a 10 mile radius of free space then all the horrid things in Memphis could be bypassed, construction could be easier, Memphis would not have to put up with all the tourist business and problems of traffic near the mansion and with all the new plans convention centers, hotels, off site museums ........Memphis will hate the new mass of people traffic and commotion so moving Graceland makes it easier for the city and easier for Apollo to follow thru on its expansion. nudge;)nudge nudge;):P

:lol::lol::lol:(y)

[KPM]

Talking of major expansions and tourism I noticed that the Disney Corportations theme parks draw worldwide around 119 million visitors a year-Disneyland in California around 25 million a year.
Graceland when opened had a target of around 3000 visitors a day which was what they felt could be sent thru the mansion comfortably on a regular basis within the time its open each day. Right now at 570,000 visitors a year that is about 1400 a day at 700,000 thats around 2000 approximatetly.
Is Graceland mansion and Memphis and its citizens really ready for lets say-2-3 million a year (small theme park size like 6 Flags)
Could the Mansion even tour 2-3 million people a year comfortably, without cutting the tour time and rushing people.
People complain of ticket prices-Disneyland raised its individual one day ticket 10 and up to $87 up 9%-tied to an expansion of Adventure area of the park with every new expansion Disney raises it pricing way above common inflation.
Graceland has raised ticket prices for inflation and the things they have done-but what will the prices be-after a $100 million investment by Apollo, or $200 million, or $250 million.
There is a saying "Water finds its level"....... maybe its possible that Graceland/EPE has found its level..... that is it at the size it will operate at most efficiently.....if is not a factory, it is not a theme park it is a historic home for a cultural legend......Disneyworld size may not be in the cards given the nature of what draws people in.
Food for thought.

[vivaelvis]

Talking of major expansions and tourism I noticed that the Disney Corportations theme parks draw worldwide around 119 million visitors a year-Disneyland in California around 25 million a year.
Graceland when opened had a target of around 3000 visitors a day which was what they felt could be sent thru the mansion comfortably on a regular basis within the time its open each day. Right now at 570,000 visitors a year that is about 1400 a day at 700,000 thats around 2000 approximatetly.
Is Graceland mansion and Memphis and its citizens really ready for lets say-2-3 million a year (small theme park size like 6 Flags)
Could the Mansion even tour 2-3 million people a year comfortably, without cutting the tour time and rushing people.
People complain of ticket prices-Disneyland raised its individual one day ticket 10 and up to $87 up 9%-tied to an expansion of Adventure area of the park with every new expansion Disney raises it pricing way above common inflation.
Graceland has raised ticket prices for inflation and the things they have done-but what will the prices be-after a $100 million investment by Apollo, or $200 million, or $250 million.
There is a saying "Water finds its level"....... maybe its possible that Graceland/EPE has found its level..... that is it at the size it will operate at most efficiently.....if is not a factory, it is not a theme park it is a historic home for a cultural legend......Disneyworld size may not be in the cards given the nature of what draws people in.
Food for thought.

Even with some kind of overhaul or upgrade, Graceland will never reach 2-3 million visitors on average per year. The best they could hope for and achieve would be maybe 1.5 million on average. And that's a respectable amount for an average-size tourist attraction. And in a city like Memphis, that's even doubtful because of the area and crime. Since 1982, Graceland has averaged 5-600,000 visitors per year, with a couple years reaching 700-750,000. EPE believes that this year will top that at around 750-800,000. It's possible, but doubtful, too.

EPE could always reduce ticket expenses by allowing the public to view the planes for free as part of the Graceland ticket package. Then take that money it would normally cost to see the planes and insert it into other new attractions for admission.

[vivaelvis]

Well, I am so glad to see that I am NOT the only one who sees that CHANGE is needed at Graceland. Starting with the area, leading to the company itself. This link to TripAdvisors is what the general public thinks of their trip to Graceland and how let down and disappointed they were. One even claims there's no entertainment. I hate to say that I told you so, but...I told you so. EPE needs to read this and fast!

Here's just a few of the poor reviews.:'(

“all over priced. tour is boring”
Reviewed May 21, 2012
Ppl expect to be entertained a little especially when paying the prices they require. Insead you put on a little headset and listen to a very boring monologue of what you are looking at. The rooms are interesting. It is one thing you should do if in Memphis but don't go for any of the extras like paying to see the Lisa Marie plane, etd.


“Do not waste your hard earned money!!!”
Reviewed May 4, 2012
What to say about this horrible tourist trap. To be fair I was forced into this so I was not happy going into it. $10.00 to park(really). $46.00 to see this old house and there are only a few rooms. You can't go upstairs, and this place is alot smaller than what you would imagine. Yes you get to see his pantsuits, which were cool to see and all of his gold albums were also the highlight. But to be subjected to gift shop after gift shop, $4.00 for a soda(really!!!) The planes were not worth the time, but the cars were pretty awesome. But unless you are madly in love with Elvis I would say skip this. My husband who dragged me into this (reason he did this is because everyone said you have to go there, why would you go to Memphis & not see this) he was disgusted. The commercialism of this place is out of control. You loose sight of the real Elvis and all you see if the gaudy tacky theme park that his family did to get more money.


“The Kings Castle is pretty dumpy”
Reviewed March 23, 2012
I guess I went into the trip thinking that Memphis would just be this fairyland fit for the king. We went for my grandmother and even she was disappointed. There were signs on the fast food places around the area that it was not advised to be out after dark. When we got to Graceland it started off okay but there was nothing overly interesting, even for my poor Grandmother. Elvis had some pretty gaudy taste and the top floor was roped off, so we felt kind of robbed of the experience we might have had.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g55197-d105746-Reviews-Graceland-Memphis_Tennessee.html#REVIEWS

[KPM]

Even with some kind of overhaul or upgrade, Graceland will never reach 2-3 million visitors on average per year. The best they could hope for and achieve would be maybe 1.5 million on average. And that's a respectable amount for an average-size tourist attraction. And in a city like Memphis, that's even doubtful because of the area and crime. Since 1982, Graceland has averaged 5-600,000 visitors per year, with a couple years reaching 700-750,000. EPE believes that this year will top that at around 750-800,000. It's possible, but doubtful, too.

EPE could always reduce ticket expenses by allowing the public to view the planes for free as part of the Graceland ticket package. Then take that money it would normally cost to see the planes and insert it into other new attractions for admission.
Yes as I pointed out that is likely to happen with expansion-ticket prices seem to go down on parts of the attractions.....;)
I had already figured out (by EPE own original estimates of 3000 a day being ideal)-that 2-3 million would not be possible Memphis could not handle the flow nor could Graceland.
So how big and costly will the advisors at Apollo who are "at this minute" deciding what size, scope and cost the upgrades should be go?
That will have to be a factor in any upgrade of consequence.
I also will add since I know you have brought up the crime problem in Memphis many times-crime will not disappear due to upgrades to an area-you may move it down the road or across town but it will still be present. We have in our city housing projects which date to the early 60s-they were finally torn down about 10 years ago after many complained for years (such as you have about the area around Graceland) low and behold those people from the projects now moved into other areas and on the outskirts of town-and crime is now more evenly distributed but still very much present. The new Pollice Chief here has done wonders in the last 2 years-by clamping down and clamping down hard on everything from boom box cars-to drug sales....and crime has dropped in those 2 years.
Cleanup and urban renewal help an area-but they do not put a huge dent in a cities crime rate...

[KPM]

Well, I am so glad to see that I am NOT the only one who sees that CHANGE is needed at Graceland. Starting with the area, leading to the company itself. This link to TripAdvisors is what the general public thinks of their trip to Graceland and how let down and disappointed they were. One even claims there's no entertainment. I hate to say that I told you so, but...I told you so. EPE needs to read this and fast!

Here's just a few of the poor reviews.:'(

“all over priced. tour is boring”
Reviewed May 21, 2012
Ppl expect to be entertained a little especially when paying the prices they require. Insead you put on a little headset and listen to a very boring monologue of what you are looking at. The rooms are interesting. It is one thing you should do if in Memphis but don't go for any of the extras like paying to see the Lisa Marie plane, etd.


“Do not waste your hard earned money!!!”
Reviewed May 4, 2012
What to say about this horrible tourist trap. To be fair I was forced into this so I was not happy going into it. $10.00 to park(really). $46.00 to see this old house and there are only a few rooms. You can't go upstairs, and this place is alot smaller than what you would imagine. Yes you get to see his pantsuits, which were cool to see and all of his gold albums were also the highlight. But to be subjected to gift shop after gift shop, $4.00 for a soda(really!!!) The planes were not worth the time, but the cars were pretty awesome. But unless you are madly in love with Elvis I would say skip this. My husband who dragged me into this (reason he did this is because everyone said you have to go there, why would you go to Memphis & not see this) he was disgusted. The commercialism of this place is out of control. You loose sight of the real Elvis and all you see if the gaudy tacky theme park that his family did to get more money.


“The Kings Castle is pretty dumpy”
Reviewed March 23, 2012
I guess I went into the trip thinking that Memphis would just be this fairyland fit for the king. We went for my grandmother and even she was disappointed. There were signs on the fast food places around the area that it was not advised to be out after dark. When we got to Graceland it started off okay but there was nothing overly interesting, even for my poor Grandmother. Elvis had some pretty gaudy taste and the top floor was roped off, so we felt kind of robbed of the experience we might have had.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g55197-d105746-Reviews-Graceland-Memphis_Tennessee.html#REVIEWS
I gave you a poor review of Disneyland, and if you want I can find you many more but you and I know I could so why take up the space.
My daughters and her friends (all under 30) gave a thumbs up to their 2009 visit to Graceland, my brothers and their families also enjoyed their trips, if you like I could search and find many people who have loved every minute they were in "Elvis Presleys Home" but once again you know I could and its a waste of space.
You have preached renovation, remix, retool, reboot, revamp, renew, re-re-re..................it almost seems your prime motivation...as I said before I am curious as to the driving force behind the hate for EPE and for the re-re-re-.....................it can not just be about respect for Elvis, respect for fans etc.....now before you think this is an out of line question let me "re" fresh you memory...you have hinted several times that I must work for EPE or that I am somehow affiliated with them, you have also questioned my "fantasy of thought" and came close to accusing me of out an out lying on the thread on the ballplayer...
My seeming defense of EPE is nothing more that seeing the spot they were in-the mountain they had ahead and the lack of tools to accomplish the goals set by the circumstances they were formed under. Nothing more and nothing less.
They are far from perfect but what company is, what person is?
I do not intentionally try to find a way to insinuate they are the root of all evil to the image and memory of Elvis or that they intentionally try to make things tough or unfair to the fans of Elvis. Life is life, business is business-I wish we all never had to wait in any type line ever or to put up with unpleasantness anywhere-but it happens everywhere and no one company business person or group of people cause it all.
That is the logic of it, that is the reality of what we call life on earth.

[vivaelvis]

Yes as I pointed out that is likely to happen with expansion-ticket prices seem to go down on parts of the attractions.....;)
I had already figured out (by EPE own original estimates of 3000 a day being ideal)-that 2-3 million would not be possible Memphis could not handle the flow nor could Graceland.
So how big and costly will the advisors at Apollo who are "at this minute" deciding what size, scope and cost the upgrades should be go?
That will have to be a factor in any upgrade of consequence.
I also will add since I know you have brought up the crime problem in Memphis many times-crime will not disappear due to upgrades to an area-you may move it down the road or across town but it will still be present. We have in our city housing projects which date to the early 60s-they were finally torn down about 10 years ago after many complained for years (such as you have about the area around Graceland) low and behold those people from the projects now moved into other areas and on the outskirts of town-and crime is now more evenly distributed but still very much present. The new Pollice Chief here has done wonders in the last 2 years-by clamping down and clamping down hard on everything from boom box cars-to drug sales....and crime has dropped in those 2 years.
Cleanup and urban renewal help an area-but they do not put a huge dent in a cities crime rate...

As I have said before, EPE/Apollo do not need to spend a fortune on upgrades to make it appeal and attractive to the consumers (not necessarily the fans) to be enticed to come. An investment of about $100 million would do the trick for a new visitor's center and museum complex. I can tell you that while living in Memphis how many times I heard that one of the turnoffs is the strip mall look and the tacky cheap looking layout with the planes sticking out above the trees like a mini airport. All of that should be in one single attractive and spacious building, not spread out down the road. Another argument has been the complaint of visitors crossing that dangerous road to get to the side of the wall to sign it or take pictures. Then you have the thugs from the nearby neighbor walking through there looking to get into something and up to no good. The fact that Graceland is in Whitehaven alone is a big turnoff to locals there and the whites do not like to go to Whitehaven as it's a heavily black middle to low class populated community. That's why so many out of town visitors are shocked when they see the lack of upkeep and respect towards Elvis form his town. I have said this before and it's the total truth. Had Elvis had been black, things would be much different. They would honor, respect and care for his legacy and it would be the cleanest most safest part of Memphis.

EPE needs to look into creating their own police force through a partnership with the city. Disney has done this with Anaheim and Orlando and the crime is very limited.

[vivaelvis]

I gave you a poor review of Disneyland, and if you want I can find you many more but you and I know I could so why take up the space.
My daughters and her friends (all under 30) gave a thumbs up to their 2009 visit to Graceland, my brothers and their families also enjoyed their trips, if you like I could search and find many people who have loved every minute they were in "Elvis Presleys Home" but once again you know I could and its a waste of space.
You have preached renovation, remix, retool, reboot, revamp, renew, re-re-re..................it almost seems your prime motivation...as I said before I am curious as to the driving force behind the hate for EPE and for the re-re-re-.....................it can not just be about respect for Elvis, respect for fans etc.....now before you think this is an out of line question let me "re" fresh you memory...you have hinted several times that I must work for EPE or that I am somehow affiliated with them, you have also questioned my "fantasy of thought" and came close to accusing me of out an out lying on the thread on the ballplayer...
My seeming defense of EPE is nothing more that seeing the spot they were in-the mountain they had ahead and the lack of tools to accomplish the goals set by the circumstances they were formed under. Nothing more and nothing less.
They are far from perfect but what company is, what person is?
I do not intentionally try to find a way to insinuate they are the root of all evil to the image and memory of Elvis or that they intentionally try to make things tough or unfair to the fans of Elvis. Life is life, business is business-I wish we all never had to wait in any type line ever or to put up with unpleasantness anywhere-but it happens everywhere and no one company business person or group of people cause it all.
That is the logic of it, that is the reality of what we call life on earth.

Stop comparing Graceland and Elvis to Mickey Mouse and Disney Land. There's no resemblance nor comparisons that can be made of the two. Disney is a THEME PARK with rides. That is the only reason people go there to begin with. They don't go to Graceland to ride the Rock & Roller Coaster. So whatever is said about Disney cannot be said the same about Graceland. I've been to Disney World and the landscape and atmosphere is worlds apart from the Graceland area.

[Snake Eyes]

Well, I am so glad to see that I am NOT the only one who sees that CHANGE is needed at Graceland. Starting with the area, leading to the company itself. This link to TripAdvisors is what the general public thinks of their trip to Graceland and how let down and disappointed they were. One even claims there's no entertainment. I hate to say that I told you so, but...I told you so. EPE needs to read this and fast!

Here's just a few of the poor reviews.:'(

“all over priced. tour is boring”
Reviewed May 21, 2012
Ppl expect to be entertained a little especially when paying the prices they require. Insead you put on a little headset and listen to a very boring monologue of what you are looking at. The rooms are interesting. It is one thing you should do if in Memphis but don't go for any of the extras like paying to see the Lisa Marie plane, etd.


“Do not waste your hard earned money!!!”
Reviewed May 4, 2012
What to say about this horrible tourist trap. To be fair I was forced into this so I was not happy going into it. $10.00 to park(really). $46.00 to see this old house and there are only a few rooms. You can't go upstairs, and this place is alot smaller than what you would imagine. Yes you get to see his pantsuits, which were cool to see and all of his gold albums were also the highlight. But to be subjected to gift shop after gift shop, $4.00 for a soda(really!!!) The planes were not worth the time, but the cars were pretty awesome. But unless you are madly in love with Elvis I would say skip this. My husband who dragged me into this (reason he did this is because everyone said you have to go there, why would you go to Memphis & not see this) he was disgusted. The commercialism of this place is out of control. You loose sight of the real Elvis and all you see if the gaudy tacky theme park that his family did to get more money.


“The Kings Castle is pretty dumpy”
Reviewed March 23, 2012
I guess I went into the trip thinking that Memphis would just be this fairyland fit for the king. We went for my grandmother and even she was disappointed. There were signs on the fast food places around the area that it was not advised to be out after dark. When we got to Graceland it started off okay but there was nothing overly interesting, even for my poor Grandmother. Elvis had some pretty gaudy taste and the top floor was roped off, so we felt kind of robbed of the experience we might have had.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g55197-d105746-Reviews-Graceland-Memphis_Tennessee.html#REVIEWS

And yet, people still go.................amazing!!

[KPM]

Stop comparing Graceland and Elvis to Mickey Mouse and Disney Land. There's no resemblance nor comparisons that can be made of the two. Disney is a THEME PARK with rides. That is the only reason people go there to begin with. They don't go to Graceland to ride the Rock & Roller Coaster. So whatever is said about Disney cannot be said the same about Graceland. I've been to Disney World and the landscape and atmosphere is worlds apart from the Graceland area.
No my friend you are the one who has consistently used the Disney comparison-I just follow your lead.
In this instance the point was not ciomparing the parks, or Elvis to Mickey-and that is fairly evident-it was to show that every attraction will have people who did not find the experience worth the money or up to the hype. That was the point.....you just did not see it.
I made the exact point about rides, Mickey, Goofy and the reasoning behind visits to Disneyland....and why people visit Graceland in this very thread.
As far as ticket pricing-the comparison is only to show prices go up much much more after expansions and the public ends up footing the bill-that is hardly a comparison of they type park or attraction-it show a universal truth which encompasses all business.

[KPM]

And yet, people still go.................amazing!!
Yes that is perplexing-so many people hate the experience yet many people around the world "at this moment" are planning to visit in the near future.
Amazing!

[Snake Eyes]

Yes that is perplexing-so many people hate the experience yet many people around the world "at this moment" are planning to visit in the near future.
Amazing!

Well, I'm only counting one review anyway, as the last two suggest they were coerced by family members, with the reviewee not being a fan, so they don't count ;)

I have enjoyed reading your responses to this thread, the voice of reason (y)

[KPM]

Viva here is part of your reply 113:
......Disney didn't become the ultimate tourist destination by sitting idle. They expanded and created new developments and properties and now look at them. A multi-billion dollar industry. That could be EPE if they had the right leadership.....

As you said Disney is a theme park about rides,........They don't go to Graceland to ride the Rock & Roller Coaster. So whatever is said about Disney cannot be said the same about Graceland. I've been to Disney World and the landscape and atmosphere is worlds apart from the Graceland area.

[KPM]

Well, I'm only counting one review anyway, as the last two suggest they were coerced by family members, with the reviewee not being a fan, so they don't count ;)

I have enjoyed reading your responses to this thread, the voice of reason (y)
Thank you very much I know Viva thinks I just take the opposite of what he thinks because its him-I do not.
I try to look at it from all sides and try to understand how things have come down in the last 35 years and how fans feel about Graceland.
But I have told Viva its not a personal thing.

[Snake Eyes]

Thank you very much I know Viva thinks I just take the opposite of what he thinks because its him-I do not.
I try to look at it from all sides and try to understand how things have come down in the last 35 years and how fans feel about Graceland.
But I have told Viva its not a personal thing.

I'd like to think that once my knowledge of all things Elvis and EPE grows, that we too can spar on the tcb boards. I promise not to take umbrage to your comments :lol:

I thought viva was a girl, sorry viva :blush:

[KPM]

I'd like to think that once my knowledge of all things Elvis and EPE grows, that we too can spar on the tcb boards. I promise not to take umbrage to your comments :lol:

I thought viva was a girl, sorry viva :blush:

I really am not sure either way, only Viva can answer that-he or she knows I am a guy, but gender has not come up for Viva. So you could be correct;)

[Snake Eyes]

I really am not sure either way, only Viva can answer that-he or she knows I am a guy, but gender has not come up for Viva. So you could be correct;)

My spider-senses told me you were a man when people called you Ken ;)

[KPM]

My spider-senses told me you were a man when people called you Ken ;)
Excellent :D

[kathy parkinson]

I live in the UK, have been to Memphis 8 times, costs me a lot of money,and a lot of time saving. Is it worth it? **** straight it is, this is Elvis's home, a tangible link to a great man.

[vivaelvis]

First of all, yes, I am a man. Just wanted to get that out there. I have also mentioned many times before that I was.

Second, for those saying they go to Graceland just to see the HOME, then what happens if mother nature intervenes and destroys Graceland? Then what? Elvis' grave would still be there but not the house. Everyone is banking on Graceland being there forever. The attraction would be but the house itself is very vulnerable. It's just something to think hard about. What if...?

[debtdbruno]

perish the thought...........:'(:'(

I would hope they would rebuild it........but it is the area where he 'was'

[Snake Eyes]

First of all, yes, I am a man. Just wanted to get that out there. I have also mentioned many times before that I was.

Second, for those saying they go to Graceland just to see the HOME, then what happens if mother nature intervenes and destroys Graceland? Then what? Elvis' grave would still be there but not the house. Everyone is banking on Graceland being there forever. The attraction would be but the house itself is very vulnerable. It's just something to think hard about. What if...?

Pardon my assumption Viva, no offence meant.

If mother nature wipes out graceland, there's nothing you can do about it anyway, so I don't see the point in worrying about something you have no control over. EPE probably have contingency plans for natural disasters anyway. It is going a little overboard using this tactic to further your argument against remodelling though. Maybe mother nature will feel your pain and whip up a little storm to tear down the mall you detest so much.

[King Of The Whole World]

First of all, yes, I am a man. Just wanted to get that out there. I have also mentioned many times before that I was.

Second, for those saying they go to Graceland just to see the HOME, then what happens if mother nature intervenes and destroys Graceland? Then what? Elvis' grave would still be there but not the house. Everyone is banking on Graceland being there forever. The attraction would be but the house itself is very vulnerable. It's just something to think hard about. What if...?

You know it's funny I have thought of that in the past. I would be absolutely sick over it. I do know that it would not be the same there if they had to rebuild Graceland because of a disaster. To be honest I don't know if I would go back to Graceland, it wouldn't be the same.

[rocknroll]

And yet, people still go.................amazing!!

Yes they do, by the hundreds of thousands yearly. Pretty weak posting a few poor reviews (when that many visit, you're bound to get a few). I have a suspicioun there are a few good reviews that could be posted also.:D

I've been a dozen times over the last 25+ years and enjoyed each visit. Never had a problem either.

[Tommy]

Yes they do, by the hundreds of thousands yearly. Pretty weak posting a few poor reviews (when that many visit, you're bound to get a few). I have a suspicioun there are a few good reviews that could be posted also.:D

I've been a dozen times over the last 25+ years and enjoyed each visit. Never had a problem either.

Agreed, I have been several times also, amazing experience, ELVIS presence everywhere. (y)

[Snake Eyes]

Then you two are very lucky (Tommy and rocknroll), it's definately on my wish list and I'm sure I will love it no matter what. I did read several reviews where people were suggesting to go through as many times as possible as there is so much to take in.

With respect to an earlier comment, it would be awful if something did happen to Graceland, bricks and mortar are not meant to last for an eternity, so it is very important that EPE do all they can to preserve the burial sites and home, that is all that matters in this case. :D

[KPM]

First of all, yes, I am a man. Just wanted to get that out there. I have also mentioned many times before that I was.
Second, for those saying they go to Graceland just to see the HOME, then what happens if mother nature intervenes and destroys Graceland? Then what? Elvis' grave would still be there but not the house. Everyone is banking on Graceland being there forever. The attraction would be but the house itself is very vulnerable. It's just something to think hard about. What if...?

"What If" a powerful question that can be applied to nearly every aspect of human life. If you plan your life based on every "What If" you will waste 95% of it on things that never happen. Most people could not afford the financial impact of planning a "what if" existence.
But I see your point-Joplin Mo had one of the worst Tornados in Mo history a year ago-the community was ravaged-a major hospital was hit and badly damaged but not totally destroyed they are rebuilding.
Graceland has insurance-and unless the house is picked up, foundation and all, and carried to OZ I'm sure they would rebuild. If Elvis had lived there and a tornado would have hit-he would have rebuilt he would still have loved the place.
Very few homes in most tornados are totally wiped off the face of the earth but it can and does happen.....so it is possible.
Would fans feel the same about it-most would-its the same land Elvis lived on, its the same space he loved....the only space on earth he truely called home it
But there are a lot of "what ifs" that do nothing more than make people worry and spend funds on scenarios that just never happen....big and small.....probable and improbable.
The simple answer is if it happens then you have to decide how to procede, move close, rebuild...you don't make multimillion dollar plans based on "What If" a tornado hits scenario.

[vivaelvis]

For those interested, here's the official new site for Core Media Group (formerly CKX Inc). It looks promising and they have added some new assets since the sale to Apollo. It's got a full page about Elvis under Portfolio and you can read tweets about Elvis under the Newsroom. http://www.coremediagroup.com

[TotallyInsane]

That is such a shame-Elvis' wishes and you think they should not be a factor???
The only reason their is an EPE is because of Elvis Presleys last will and testiment-fact.... no debate.... no if ans or buts.
The current EPE is in existence solely because of legal instructions that had to be carried out as Elvis stipulated-it is a major point-it is the reason for anything and everything since Elvis died in connection with Graceland, Lisa, and his image.
Instead of thanking EPE/Lisa, they get slammed, anything they do is downgraded as not enough, not to a standard proclaimed by others, not fair, not respectful..........isnt that the case-isnt that with your argument? If Elvis's will is an indication of what he wanted I would dare say Elvis is much happier that some fans-Lisa is rich beyond his wildest wishes so pardon me If I see that as a PLUS!
It was after all Elvis's life, his career, his home, his image...........and his daughter.
I recall not long ago I mentioned that this seemed to be your real fire-complaining about what EPE has not done, what EPE should do, and what they have done wrong.

Heres a link to a retrospective of the history of EPE since Elvis died, quite a few updates and additions mentioned all cost money......planes bought and renovated, car museum, buying strip malls, renovating those, raquetball court renovation for hall of gold, hotel, restaurant, charitable foundation set up (hope thats okay)finding and buying back Elvis autos, jewelry, costumes, property etc...... and many that are unmentioned have taken place.
The Sillerman deal was suppose to be that next big step.....and now Apollo......EPE/Lisa proclaimed they wanted to go further but admitted they needed the "expertise" of an outside entity-boy thats really worked out.
Its not just enough to have grand visions, you have to follow thru and stick to a plan....not jump from point to point, idea to idea.........and let your new ideas keep you from acting till all you have is the ideas (indeed he is not calling the shots anymore)
Tourism is at an all time low in the world (as I have pointed out several times) not just for Graceland.
Although Graceland is still the most visited private home in America.
EPE has spent money-has made improvements, has worked to make the visits better-just not on par with what "YOU" want.
I have ofter wondered what it is that makes the Graceland renovation issue so important to you........its your number one issue.
The number one issue for me concerning Elvis is his talent and charisma-his accomplishments as an artist-those are things that do not depend on renovations-because they will exist as long as his voice and performances are available.
If I was Lisa-I would close it up..... she will never win, EPE will never win.... the will put them in the position of "villains" and yet they have fullfilled what what they were "legally bound to do" They did not own the music, they did not own the films......yet they succeeded.
Shame more people do not realise how easily it could have went the other way.

http://www.enotes.com/elvis-presley-enterprises-inc-reference/elvis-presley-enterprises-inc

It is a shame that the people that complain the most about what EPE "hasn't" done for the fans weren't there back in 1977 after he died. If you could see what was across the street then - you might see that improvements have been made. EPE cannot make every single fan happy with everything they do. They never have and never will!

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

It would be interesting to see what the running costs are to maintain Graceland and the business's associated with it? Then see what the yearly costs of living for the LMP, Priscilla and the extended family especially the lifestyle they have become accustomed to. My bet is that there isn't much change left to spare for huge projects and that much of the investment needed to to take on a big project would require an outside investor...

I'm not saying that EPE haven't missed or even wasted great opportunities but the financial situation in the recent past wasn't conducive to making big investments. That being said, there are steady returns from the Elvis Presley 'Business' that any viable intelligent company would be able make a strong business case to loan money for a project that would give a return on investment.

The problem is that 'Graceland' is already the key focal point and the grounds are already well kept, the property is well kept and on the whole the fans are happy with the way it looks! Most of the fans would hate to see any changes to the property so that means anything new would be a constant disappointment to at least 50% of the fan base.

Graceland was Elvis' home and most fans want it to stay as faithful to how it was when he was alive (Pre ***** house red) the surrounding area around Graceland is run down, EPE or Apollo are not accountable for those areas and I'm pretty sure having had their fingers burnt with the Heartbreak Hotel they are reluctant to venture down that road again!

The core business is Graceland for EPE and I'm not sure they should mess with it to be honest, if you change it too much you take away from the whole experience, essence and authenticity so to speak. Yes there should be minor updates here and there but I'm unclear as to what the fans really want in terms of large projects, because if you are taking on a large project wouldn't you need to take away credible artefacts from Graceland to give any project credibility and doesn't that detract from Graceland?

It's all to easy to jump on one band wagon or another but the simple fact is Graceland is the mecca for the fans and most fans want it to be the home that Elvis lived in with little or no changes to the perceived Image that has been cultivated. I'm not saying that there aren't opportunities out there, but as long as EPE maintain/sustain Graceland, then for me at least they are safeguarding the most important part of Elvis' essence.

[KPM]

It would be interesting to see what the running costs are to maintain Graceland and the business's associated with it? Then see what the yearly costs of living for the LMP, Priscilla and the extended family especially the lifestyle they have become accustomed to. My bet is that there isn't much change left to spare for huge projects and that much of the investment needed to to take on a big project would require an outside investor...

I'm not saying that EPE haven't missed or even wasted great opportunities but the financial situation in the recent past wasn't conducive to making big investments. That being said, there are steady returns from the Elvis Presley 'Business' that any viable intelligent company would be able make a strong business case to loan money for a project that would give a return on investment.

The problem is that 'Graceland' is already the key focal point and the grounds are already well kept, the property is well kept and on the whole the fans are happy with the way it looks! Most of the fans would hate to see any changes to the property so that means anything new would be a constant disappointment to at least 50% of the fan base.

Graceland was Elvis' home and most fans want it to stay as faithful to how it was when he was alive (Pre ***** house red) the surrounding area around Graceland is run down, EPE or Apollo are not accountable for those areas and I'm pretty sure having had their fingers burnt with the Heartbreak Hotel they are reluctant to venture down that road again!

The core business is Graceland for EPE and I'm not sure they should mess with it to be honest, if you change it too much you take away from the whole experience, essence and authenticity so to speak. Yes there should be minor updates here and there but I'm unclear as to what the fans really want in terms of large projects, because if you are taking on a large project wouldn't you need to take away credible artefacts from Graceland to give any project credibility and doesn't that detract from Graceland?

It's all to easy to jump on one band wagon or another but the simple fact is Graceland is the mecca for the fans and most fans want it to be the home that Elvis lived in with little or no changes to the perceived Image that has been cultivated. I'm not saying that there aren't opportunities out there, but as long as EPE maintain/sustain Graceland, then for me at least they are safeguarding the most important part of Elvis' essence.
Spot on IMO-nice to hear you Matt(y)

[vivaelvis]

I know this won't go over well with some because you want it all to stay the same and don't understand why change is needed, but to me, it's how I feel. I grew up with Elvis in my life on a day to day basis. Through my childhood to my adult hood all I ever got was the " haha, you like Elvis, you must be wierd" comments aimed at me. Today he's as popular as he ever was when alive and they look like fools now. So anything they do that keeps Elvis popular and in the public's eyes and sights for years to come is fine by me. If the new owners want to remodel everything, including the home itself, then so be it. Do what you got to do to keep visitors (not necessarily the die hard life long fans, but the general public) coming back year after year and learning about Elvis in the process and becoming fans who pass it down to their kids. Elvis isn't there anymore so I doubt he cares what happens to his former home or its surrounding. As long as it's not degrading or tasteless then I'm okay with whatever they decide to do as far as upgrading or revamping is concerned. I would not be happy with them leaving it be as it is and becoming less and less attractive in a bad part of a bad city. To me, that would be tasteless and degrading.

[King Of The Whole World]

I know this won't go over well with some because you want it all to stay the same and don't understand why change is needed, but to me, it's how I feel. I grew up with Elvis in my life on a day to day basis. Through my childhood to my adult hood all I ever got was the " haha, you like Elvis, you must be wierd" comments aimed at me. Today he's as popular as he ever was when alive and they look like fools now. So anything they do that keeps Elvis popular and in the public's eyes and sights for years to come is fine by me. If the new owners want to remodel everything, including the home itself, then so be it. Do what you got to do to keep visitors (not necessarily the die hard life long fans, but the general public) coming back year after year and learning about Elvis in the process and becoming fans who pass it down to their kids. Elvis isn't there anymore so I doubt he cares what happens to his former home or its surrounding. As long as it's not degrading or tasteless then I'm okay with whatever they decide to do as far as upgrading or revamping is concerned. I would not be happy with them leaving it be as it is and becoming less and less attractive in a bad part of a bad city. To me, that would be tasteless and degrading.

I do not think they will ever change Graceland, the house itself. It would not be the same. I know if they remodeled the home or added rooms, change furniture that wasn’t Elvis' furniture, I would not go back. I don't think I would be the only one to think that way. Once people that are not really Elvis fans find out that the house is nothing like it was when Elvis was there, even those people would not go to the house.

[Tommy]

I know this won't go over well with some because you want it all to stay the same and don't understand why change is needed, but to me, it's how I feel. I grew up with Elvis in my life on a day to day basis. Through my childhood to my adult hood all I ever got was the " haha, you like Elvis, you must be wierd" comments aimed at me. Today he's as popular as he ever was when alive and they look like fools now. So anything they do that keeps Elvis popular and in the public's eyes and sights for years to come is fine by me. If the new owners want to remodel everything, including the home itself, then so be it. Do what you got to do to keep visitors (not necessarily the die hard life long fans, but the general public) coming back year after year and learning about Elvis in the process and becoming fans who pass it down to their kids. Elvis isn't there anymore so I doubt he cares what happens to his former home or its surrounding. As long as it's not degrading or tasteless then I'm okay with whatever they decide to do as far as upgrading or revamping is concerned. I would not be happy with them leaving it be as it is and becoming less and less attractive in a bad part of a bad city. To me, that would be tasteless and degrading.

One thing is very certain, Elvis would care about his beloved home.............as we all do. Graceland will remain as it is for an eternity, unless an act of nature should take it from us.....I hope that never happens.

Graceland is ELVIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (y)

[vivaelvis]

I do not think they will ever change Graceland, the house itself. It would not be the same. I know if they remodeled the home or added rooms, change furniture that wasn’t Elvis' furniture, I would not go back. I don't think I would be the only one to think that way. Once people that are not really Elvis fans find out that the house is nothing like it was when Elvis was there, even those people would not go to the house.

Believe it or not, they have already done that throughout the years. The fabric that they use today (blue and white carpet) is NOT the original. I have even heard from a former staff member that some of the furniture in Graceland are replicas to the original. Don't know if that's true or not, but it's what was told to me when I was last there. The adjacent museum exhibit (where the new Lisa exhibit is now) was once an on-sight apartment complex that Elvis had built for the Mafia. It was remodeled into an expanded area for exhibits in the late 90's. They changed what was once Elvis' personal salon with a barber's chair installed, into the main museum section of Graceland which is the extension from the original gold awards building. The racket ball court was renovated and transformed into what is today the main awards building with the jumpsuits.

Basically, it's not what we think it is or was when Elvis lived there. A lot has changed over the years.

[King Of The Whole World]

Believe it or not, they have already done that throughout the years. The fabric that they use today (blue and white carpet) is NOT the original. I have even heard from a former staff member that some of the furniture in Graceland are replicas to the original. Don't know if that's true or not, but it's what was told to me when I was last there. The adjacent museum exhibit (where the new Lisa exhibit is now) was once an on-sight apartment complex that Elvis had built for the Mafia. It was remodeled into an expanded area for exhibits in the late 90's. They changed what was once Elvis' personal salon with a barber's chair installed, into the main museum section of Graceland which is the extension from the original gold awards building. The racket ball court was renovated and transformed into what is today the main awards building with the jumpsuits.

Basically, it's not what we think it is or was when Elvis lived there. A lot has changed over the years.

You are right there have been some changes. It has always bothered me that Priscilla changed back to the blue and white instead of leaving it red and white, but she wanted it like it was when she was there. Even though I like the blue and white better, it is a much clean and fresh look. I know they had to redo the racquetball court to hold all the gold records and jumpsuits, which I think it was a good idea. They have also replaced the carpet too. I don’t know about the furniture being different, I would imagine the chairs at the table have been refurbish because it seems like everyone who gets a personal tour gets to sit in the chairs.

I guess I mean I wouldn’t want them to change the layout of the main house or something. They have to do small maintenance just to keep the house from rotting away.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

It goes without saying there will have been adjustments overs the years but the integrity of Graceland is essentially intact.

I'm not sure we should be just catering for the passing fan when it come to Graceland, they should be catered for of course and all the cheap souvenirs are there should they want a memento. I believe there is little to be gained by remodelling and diluting the Elvis experience at Graceland. The fans will forgive replica's and replacements here and there if they are part of a bigger original history.

[vivaelvis]

Here's an interesting article dating back to 1986 regarding the planned original Grsceland Hotel that was never to be.:'(

"It seems that a new hotel is about to be constructed adjacent to the late Elvis Presley`s Graceland mansion in Memphis. The hotel will contain 200 rooms, restaurants and a guitar-shaped swimming pool. Current plans are to call it the Graceland Hotel, although some people are suggesting that it be called Heartbreak Hotel."

http://articles.chicagotribune.com/1986-04-29/features/8601310054_1_new-hotel-heartbreak-hotel-george-klein

[KPM]

Here's an interesting article dating back to 1986 regarding the planned original Grsceland Hotel that was never to be.:'(

]"It seems that a new hotel is about to be constructed adjacent to the late Elvis Presley`s Graceland mansion in Memphis. The hotel will contain 200 rooms, restaurants and a guitar-shaped swimming pool. Current plans are to call it the Graceland Hotel, although some people are suggesting that it be called Heartbreak Hotel."[/B]
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/1986-04-29/features/8601310054_1_new-hotel-heartbreak-hotel-george-klein
I noticed that Mr. Greene never did really source his item-he said its been announced which is as close as the article comes to a source.
But in the 26 years since this article (and no new hotel built)-Elvis's sales climbed, his gold and platinum totals went up, EPE continued to grow and Elvis's legacy has been furthered. SO all did not collapse because this item did not come to pass.

[vivaelvis]

I noticed that Mr. Greene never did really source his item-he said its been announced which is as close as the article comes to a source.
But in the 26 years since this article (and no new hotel built)-Elvis's sales climbed, his gold and platinum totals went up, EPE continued to grow and Elvis's legacy has been furthered. SO all did not collapse because this item did not come to pass.

Never did I say without a hotel would it collapse. So what's your point? I simply said it was never to be, for which it wasn't, for that particular hotel at that particular time.

[KPM]

Never did I say without a hotel would it collapse. So what's your point? I simply said it was never to be, for which it wasn't, for that particular hotel at that particular time.
My point is what it has always been-that Elvis gains fans as he always has and always will....that fact is not dependent on newer buildings, huge state of the art facilities, nor remixes the past 35 years have proven that. No you did not say outright all would collapse if the hotel was not built but in several threads of this type you have implied that Graceland could close eventually with out your "musts".....I can go through the posts and find your comments but you and I know its not necessary...that has been one of your arguments.
My point was the same in this post as in all other posts. Elvis is eternal he may not be the hottest thing on the planet...but he is deceased...still even deceased he gains fans, sells records, is a huge attraction........now that said-let me say all the things you want, most are not in themselves bad things and can be great tools to attract fans-but they are not essential to keeping Elvis alive-they are tools nothing more. If they happen and are done correctly-fine....if they are not ...fine. I will still admire and listen to Elvis, he will still gain people who see his unique charismatic talent.
Elvis sells Elvis-his voice, his look, his personality-his smile..... all combine to attract fans every single year.
That was my point in saying-"SO all did not collapse because this item did not come to pass"

[Nicole Presley]

I don´t think Graceland will ever be destroyed. I think God watches over it. When a year ago Memphis was flooded I was very worried about Graceland, especially about the Meditation Garden.

[vivaelvis]

The Elvis Experience in Brazil is NOT your typical Elvis exhibit. It's very hi-tech and stylish! They are even building a state-of-the art facility just for it! I am hoping and praying that this is what's still to come for Elvis at Graceland as part of the upgrading and worldwide. I would love to see them do this in Vegas to keep his importance and presence in that city alive for years to come, now that Viva Elvis is closing down at the end of the summer.

Click on the link to see a look inside of the exhibit and the a rendering of the facility's facade. http://elvis-express.com/elvisradio_news_0612_01brazil.html

[KPM]

The Elvis Experience in Brazil is NOT your typical Elvis exhibit. It's very hi-tech and stylish! They are even building a state-of-the art facility just for it! I am hoping and praying that this is what's still to come for Elvis at Graceland as part of the upgrading and worldwide. I would love to see them do this in Vegas to keep his importance and presence in that city alive for years to come, now that Viva Elvis is closing down at the end of the summer.

Click on the link to see a look inside of the exhibit and the a rendering of the facility's facade. http://elvis-express.com/elvisradio_news_0612_01brazil.html
By the way Viva I am still healthy and very much here, so I am a few days closer to that 25-30 years I plan to be around;):D

[vivaelvis]

http://i1022.photobucket.com/albums/af344/umtiger42/Brazil02-497x271.jpg

I wodner how much they are spending to develop this unique and attractive exhibit and facility?:hmm:

[Snake Eyes]

It does look pretty sweet and I can see your point to some degree about upgrades etc, but let's be fair, you have Graceland and it doesn't matter how swanky a new exhibit is, it cannot compare to Elvis' home :lol:

[Diane]

It does look pretty sweet and I can see your point to some degree about upgrades etc, but let's be fair, you have Graceland and it doesn't matter how swanky a new exhibit is, it cannot compare to Elvis' home :lol:

:clap::clap::clap::clap::clap: That's what we have all been saying. Graceland contains Elvis' spirit where no new modern building could.

[Tommy]

:clap::clap::clap::clap::clap: That's what we have all been saying. Graceland contains Elvis' spirit where no new modern building could.

:clap::clap::clap::clap::clap::clap:

[debtdbruno]

I agree, Graceland is the essence of Elvis.....

However, this could go on tour (so to speak)........All good publicity for our guy

[Snake Eyes]

I agree, Graceland is the essence of Elvis.....

However, this could go on tour (so to speak)........All good publicity for our guy

Let's hope so, if it hit the uk I'd definately go.

[debtdbruno]

me too..........

[vivaelvis]

From my understanding, this is just a 2-month touring exhibition and only for Brazil.

[debtdbruno]

shame, when you've got something that could generate money, interest and promote him.....seems a waste not to 'spread' it about

[vivaelvis]

shame, when you've got something that could generate money, interest and promote him.....seems a waste not to 'spread' it about

I agree, but you have to understand also that it is costing money for them to build a complete temporary facility just to house the hi-tech exhibit to begin with. My complaint is why are they spending that money to do it there and not at Graceland where it's been needed for decades?:hmm:

[debtdbruno]

I wonder why they chose Brazil?

[KPM]

I wonder why they chose Brazil?
Its my understanding that Brazil has a huge Elvis following.

[vivaelvis]

Its my understanding that Brazil has a huge Elvis following.

Where did you get that from? I have seen posters from Brazil on FECC say just the opposite. Elvis does NOT have a huge following in South America. In fact, it probably has the smallest Elvis fanbase throughout the world. That is probably why they chose Brazil, to introduce him to that country.

[KPM]

Where did you get that from? I have seen posters from Brazil on FECC say just the opposite. Elvis does NOT have a huge following in South America. In fact, it probably has the smallest Elvis fanbase throughout the world. That is probably why they chose Brazil, to introduce him to that country.
I got that info from the Official announcement for the exhibit:
“Elvis has always maintained a broad international appeal and it is no surprise that there are thousands of fans across South America and Brazil who continue to embrace his rich legacy,” commented Priscilla Presley, former wife of the late music icon. “Lisa and I are happy to be able to share some of these special items that mean so much to us, as they did to Elvis, and loan them for public display in a country where Elvis is so well-loved.”

In addition to the exhibition, South American fans will also be able to experience the closest they will ever come to a LIVE Elvis concert with the announcement that “Elvis Presley in Concert” will take place in Sao Paulo on October 2, 2012. Concert-goers will see some of Elvis' finest performances projected on a large video screen, accompanied live on stage by a cast of singers and musicians who worked with him, a full orchestra, and additional singers and musicians.

“For the next nine months, our team at 2Share Entertainment will be working passionately to build out all the aspects of this first-of-its-kind exhibition. We are also preparing to welcome Elvis’ former backup singers and band mates to South America,” said Rafael Reisman, President of 2Share Entertainment. “We anticipate this special loan of rare artifacts from Graceland and the performance of “Elvis Presley in Concert” will draw thousands of people from many countries around the world so we are making sure everyone has a unique experience in Brazil."

There are currently many Elvis Presley fan clubs in South America and Graceland has seen a steady increase in visitors from the country in the last several years. Currently, on Elvis’ Facebook page, South America ranks third in the number of international fans, just behind the United Kingdom and Mexico

[vivaelvis]

I got that info from the Official announcement for the exhibit:
“Elvis has always maintained a broad international appeal and it is no surprise that there are thousands of fans across South America and Brazil who continue to embrace his rich legacy,” commented Priscilla Presley, former wife of the late music icon. “Lisa and I are happy to be able to share some of these special items that mean so much to us, as they did to Elvis, and loan them for public display in a country where Elvis is so well-loved.”

In addition to the exhibition, South American fans will also be able to experience the closest they will ever come to a LIVE Elvis concert with the announcement that “Elvis Presley in Concert” will take place in Sao Paulo on October 2, 2012. Concert-goers will see some of Elvis' finest performances projected on a large video screen, accompanied live on stage by a cast of singers and musicians who worked with him, a full orchestra, and additional singers and musicians.

“For the next nine months, our team at 2Share Entertainment will be working passionately to build out all the aspects of this first-of-its-kind exhibition. We are also preparing to welcome Elvis’ former backup singers and band mates to South America,” said Rafael Reisman, President of 2Share Entertainment. “We anticipate this special loan of rare artifacts from Graceland and the performance of “Elvis Presley in Concert” will draw thousands of people from many countries around the world so we are making sure everyone has a unique experience in Brazil."

There are currently many Elvis Presley fan clubs in South America and Graceland has seen a steady increase in visitors from the country in the last several years. Currently, on Elvis’ Facebook page, South America ranks third in the number of international fans, just behind the United Kingdom and Mexico

Of course EPE is going to make that claim. Just as they keep claiming that they have 600,000 visitors a year, when the real number is about 100,000 less. It's called selling to the media. Like I said before, members on FECC complained about the lack of Brazillian fans where they live. I take a fan's word who actually lives there than a media ***** like EPE.

[KPM]

Of course EPE is going to make that claim. Just as they keep claiming that they have 600,000 visitors a year, when the real number is about 100,000 less. It's called selling to the media. Like I said before, members on FECC complained about the lack of Brazillian fans where they live. I take a fan's word who actually lives there than a media ***** like EPE.
Well the Facebook Page rankings seem pretty convincing in this internet age.
I do not think EPE would send this huge exhibit to a country that has lukewarm interest-not good business.

[Snake Eyes]

It's a huge risk for EPE to create this exhibit in a country where fans are few and far between though don't you think?

[Snake Eyes]

Pipped to the post by KPM again grrrrr

[vivaelvis]

So, why not have it in Europe like London or Paris, since Elvis' largest fan base is in the UK? ouldn't it have been a bigger draw there? I'm not saying that there are no Elvis fans in Brazil. I am only passing on what some Brazilians at FECC posted just a few weeks ago. Maybe it's just that in their part there isn't much Elvis fandom. Maybe they don't live in Sao Paulo where the exhibit it being built.

IMO, I think they chose South America because Elvis is not known to have a large fan following there. They know that the more exposure the more ducks they can sell, I mean the more they can sell Elvis.;)

[KPM]

So, why not have it in Europe like London or Paris, since Elvis' largest fan base is in the UK? ouldn't it have been a bigger draw there? I'm not saying that there are no Elvis fans in Brazil. I am only passing on what some Brazilians at FECC posted just a few weeks ago. Maybe it's just that in their part there isn't much Elvis fandom. Maybe they don't live in Sao Paulo where the exhibit it being built.

IMO, I think they chose South America because Elvis is not known to have a large fan following there. They know that the more exposure the more ducks they can sell, I mean the more they can sell Elvis.;)
Yes thats one view.