Bush cashes in

[rick]

Here's a newswire service story to share...rick

US: Bush sends regards to Elvis fans on anniversary of death US Elvis

MEMPHIS, Tennessee, Aug 15 AP - US President George W Bush and first lady Laura Bush sent their regards to Elvis Presley fans honouring the 29th anniversary of the King's death.

The White House sent a letter to be read today to thousands of fans outside the singer's Graceland mansion waiting to visit his grave, said Kevin Kern, a spokesman for Elvis Presley Enterprises. The president and first lady brought Elvis fan and Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi to Memphis on June 30 for a tour of Graceland and a barbecue lunch.

After the visit, "we were reminded that Elvis Presley will forever have a special place in the cultural life of America,'' Bush wrote in the letter. "This event is an opportunity for people from around the globe to come together, share their memories and celebrate one of America's most beloved icons.''

The letter will be placed in the Presley archives after being displayed for a limited time in the trophy room at the mansion, Kern said.

Kern said between 8,000 and 10,000 fans were expected to visit Graceland for the vigil today. Presley died of heart disease and prescription drug abuse at Graceland on August 16, 1977. Fans traditionally file past his grave at the mansion on the eve of the anniversary.

[Albert]

bit by bit it seems like Elvis is receiving the recognition that he deserved. Thanks for sharing Rick

[Diane]

We can all thank Junichoro Koizumi for this great recognition. If not for him the presidential visit would not have happened.

[franny]

That's true, Diane!
It was easy to see that Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi is really a true Elvis fan!

franny

[Dovey]

I sure agree with Diane and Franny 100% on this one!! Dovey