GaryElvis won the Gospel contest Sunday morning at the Poconos Mountains Elvis Festival. The festival was held Oct. 21st to 23rd at Fernwood Resort in Bushkill, Pennsylvania.
The Pocono Mountains Elvis Festival was held at Fernwood Resort October 21 through 23rd in the beautiful Pocono mountains area of northeastern Pennsylvania. This was a 2012 preliminary to the 2012 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist contest, meaning the winner of this contest is prequalified for the Ultimate semifinals to be held in Memphis in August 2012 during Elvis Week.
Nineteen tribute artists performed Friday afternoon and evening during the preliminary round one. Roughly half of the performers performed to tracks, and the others performed with the Change of Habit Tribute Band. GaryElvis appeared wearing a beautiful, flattering, rhinestone-embellished black tuxedo. Backed by the Change of Habit Band, GaryElvis' versions of Elvis’ From Rags to Riches, Return to Sender, One Night and How Great Thou Art were very much enjoyed by the audience.
An after-party was held, where many sang karaoke and enjoyed catching up with friends.
During the Saturday afternoon preliminary round two, those who performed with the band Friday sang to tracks, and those who had previously sung to tracks now had the opportunity to perform with the band. Once again, GaryElvis looked very classy, this time in a white tuxedo jacket and black, rhinestone-bejeweled pants. His versions of Elvis’ classics Little Sister, Spanish Eyes, It’s Now or Never and the beautiful, inspirational song You’ll Never Walk Alone moved the listeners from rockin’ to romance to a spiritual high.
Saturday evening’s exciting, big show, From Burbank to Vegas, featured two sets of Elvis’ greatest hits with the Change of Habit Tribute Band. Robert Washington covered the Elvis ’68 Comeback Special, and Shawn Klush covered Elvis’ Vegas years. Portia Griffin and Estelle Brown of The Sweet Inspirations were outstanding as backup vocalists.
Saturday’s after-party was a tremendous Spooktacular Halloween Ball. The ballroom was decorated in a spooky theme with balloons, cobwebs, gravestones and more. Holiday favors were chocolate body parts, including eyes, ears and teeth (eww). So many dressed for the occasion! There was Fred and Wilma Flinstone, Batman, Burger King, Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz, Little Red Riding Hood and the wolf, an American Indian princess, flappers, cops, vixens, a family of skunks, kitties, jailbirds, scarecrows, hippies, pirates, witches, vampires, devils and many more. GaryElvis joined in the festivities in a fun, friendly-looking monkey costume, i.e., "Wooly Nelson”. He enjoyed monkeyin’ around and went on stage to perform I’m a Believer. One little boy named Cole, who is about three years old, seemed fascinated with the monkey costume and agreed to sit on GaryElvis’ knee for a photo. Nereida Howe presented a beautiful slideshow tribute, which was accompanied by a song she recorded in the studio. She said the tribute honors Elvis for being one of the greatest inspirations in her life but also honors the many ETAs that continue to keep his legacy alive. Everyone enjoyed games, singing and dancing the night away!
Sunday morning an Elvis Gospel music contest was held. GaryElvis was asked to say the Benediction prayer and gladly accepted. GaryElvis performed a soulful He Touched Me and How Great Thou Art. Unfortunately, the sound track to his 2nd song didn't work, so GaryElvis bravely sang acapello. The audience was so moved that he was given a standing ovation. Out of the 10 contestants, "Congratulations" goes to GaryElvis, who won the Gospel music contest and was presented with the Pocono Mountains Elvis Gospel Music trophy.
Ten finalists took the stage Sunday afternoon for the Ultimate Elvis tribute artist contest preliminary. The results are as follows: 1st Mark Anthony, 2nd Brycen Katolinsky, 3rd Joe Ramsey, 4th Andy Wood, 5th Anthony Carbone, 6th Kelly Hylton, 7th Cliff Wright, 8th Richie Santa, 9th Drew Polsun, 10th Kevin Hupka. Fan's choice 1st Mark Anthony, 2nd Andy Svercek, 3rd Cliff Wright. Mark Anthony will represent the Pocono Mountains Elvis Festival in the 2012 Ultimate in Memphis.
During the finals, Brycen Katolinsky from St. Catharine’s, Ontario, Canada dedicated Elvis’ song I Believe to GaryElvis, winner of the Gospel contest. Brycen sweetly said, “GaryElvis believes in all of us, and we believe.” This was without a doubt one of the most touching moments of the entire weekend!
GaryElvis, as always, congratulated the winners. He is very supportive, encourages everyone and is always there to lend a hand when needed.
Sunday night’s wrap party was bittersweet. It’s wonderful to get together with friends, yet tough to say goodbye until next time. It was another fun-filled party with more karaoke, singing and dancing! GaryElvis sang Elton John’s Your Song (It’s a little bit funny this feeling inside…) and Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. He also joined Mark Anthony, E-rock, Andy Wood, Joe Ramsey singing The Beatles’ Help! and She Loves You.
Many thanks to the Pocono Mountains Elvis Festival, Jason Sherry, Terry Collins, Joe and Angela Ramsey for sound work over the weekend, Nereida Howe, Joann Direnzo, Janette Direnzo and the many volunteers! The weekend was another resounding success.
GaryElvis won 4th place in the Elvistival 11th Annual Elvis Festival held September 30th and October 1st at the Rusty Rudder in Dewey Beach, Delaware.
The eleventh annual Dewey Beach Elvis Festival was held at the Rusty Rudder restaurant in Dewey Beach, Delaware September 30 and October 1. This was a King of the World preliminary contest, meaning the winner of this contest is prequalified for the King of the World finals to be held in Memphis in August 2012 during Elvis Week. GaryElvis was among only a few returning to Dewey Beach that were here 11 years ago for the very first one.
Twenty-three Elvis tribute artists performed Friday evening. GaryElvis was stunning in his white with turquoise Phoenix jumpsuit. The audience obviously enjoyed his singing Way Down, I'll Never Fall in Love Again and A Little Less Conversation. After performing on the stage at the restaurant's large outside deck, each entertainer went inside, next door, to repeat their performances on the restaurant's inside stage. Since it wasn't part of the competition, some changed or added songs and took requests from the audience. GaryElvis added "Summertime" acapella to his set.
During the Saturday afternoon open mic session, GaryElvis again sang the popular jazz standard, Summertime, beautifully. This song is a classic composed by George Gershwin for the 1935 opera Porgy and Bess. Summertime,/And the livin' is easy/ Fish are jumpin'/And the cotton is high…
During open mic sessions, contest breaks and totaling of the scores, we had the opportunity to hear weekend host and MC, Ronny Craig, Irv Cass as Elvis and Tom Jones, Mark Gagnon as Johnny Cash and Jerome Marion as Elvis.
For the Saturday evening finals. GaryElvis was stunning in a white Cape Fringe suit. He sang I Can't Stop Loving You, Just Pretend, Burnin' Love and My Way. It was a chilly evening on the bayside deck, going down into the 50s. Many people were wearing jackets, and some were wrapped in blankets. Once again, after performing on the outside deck, GaryElvis followed up with a performance on the inside stage. Afterwards, his popular Bear Coat made another "warm" appearance.
When speaking with a nice woman who works at a local hotel where I've stayed twice before, she mentioned there is one guy here she really likes. Of course, curiosity led me to ask, "And, who is that?" Ironic, since it was me she was speaking to and she didn't know I knew him, though not surprising, her reply was an excited, "GaryElvis!". Turns out that GaryElvis had run into another returning local GE fan, Bonnie, in the parking lot and he pre-arranged with Mark Gagnon and Robert Washington to present her a special scarf on the inside stage.
The competition final results were as follows: Professional Division--1st Robert Washington, 2nd Bob Lougheed, 3rd Jim Barone, 4th GaryElvis Britt, 5th Andy Svrcek and Nonpro Division--1st Ernie Hefferon, 2nd Jim Parsley, 3rd Dan Barella, 4th Ronnie Nichols and 5th Randy Mancini. Friday People's Choice was awarded to Bob Lougheed, and Saturday's People's Choice was awarded to Jim Barone.
GaryElvis, as always, congratulated the other winners. He is very supportive, encourages everyone and is always there to lend a hand when needed. Also, GaryElvis' generosity is apparent as he hands out scarves from the stage during his performances.
Thanks go out to Elvis Entertainers Network's Nance Fox, Marie White, Kathy Hood, Ronny Craig and Jerome Marion for another enjoyable contest. Overall, it was a great weekend with friends!
The third annual New England Elvis Festival was held at the Radisson Hotel in Manchester, New Hampshire September 2nd to 4th. This was an EPE-sanctioned Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist preliminary competition. The Change of Habit Tribute Band provided backup.
Twenty Elvis tribute artists performed during Friday's round one. GaryElvis appeared on stage wearing his white with turquoise Phoenix jumpsuit, a replica of a jumpsuit that Elvis wore in concerts in 1972 and 1973. The enthusiastic audience appreciated his renditions of From Rags to Riches, Promised Land, How Great Thou Art and his signature Just Pretend. He clearly received a standing ovation during a very powerful How Great Thou Art.
After the preliminary round, Joe Ramsey, the 2010 New England Elvis Festival champion performed. This was followed by an after-hours party in the hotel's pub.
GaryElvis looked snazzy Saturday for the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest preliminary round 2 in his Blue Fringe jumpsuit and sang Way Down, Hurt, Unchained Melody and America. He always comes across as a seasoned, professional entertainer, easily relating well to his audiences. The audience was on their feet during Unchained Melody, another standing ovation! And, they remained standing throughout America.
Sonny West, former member of the Memphis Mafia and Elvis' bodyguard and security chief spoke, answered questions and then was available for signing autographs and taking pictures with fans. GaryElvis had a table set up next to Sonny to meet and greet fans and had merchandise available for sale. Sonny told GaryElvis that he was glad to see “Holly Leaves & Christmas Trees” on his Christmas CD. Sonny’s cousin Red West wrote it for Elvis.
That evening Robert Washington performed music from Elvis' '68 Comeback Special and the Poconos Mountains Elvis Festival champion Ben Portsmouth performed a set of Elvis' greatest hits. The well-attended after-party was a luau-themed event with music, contests and prizes. For the talent show, Anthony Carbone as Tom Jones won first place, Cliff Wright as Johnny Cask won second place and Cathy Carbone as Connie Francis won third place, Rick Fary won the limbo contest, yet Tricia from the Change of Habit Tribute Band was real competition for him.
Throughout the weekend, GaryElvis was accommodating about having pictures taken with fans and friends. He sang two impromptu songs quietly to fulfill special requests. When he did this, it brought to mind several lines from Billy Joel's song Piano Man: sing us a song tonight/Well, we're all in the mood for a melody/And you've got us feelin' alright.
During Sunday's Gospel competition, GaryElvis sang It is No Secret and You'll Never Walk Alone.
For the finals Sunday afternoon, ten finalists each sang five songs. Rick Huntress won the New England Elvis Fest and will represent the festival for the Ultimate Elvis contest held during Elvis Week in August 2012. Other results for the contest are as follows: 2nd Mark Anthony, 3rd Jay Zanier, 4th Anthony Carbone, 5th Drew Polsun, 6th Cliff Wright, 7th Carl Branson, 8th Kelly Hylton, 9th Matt Dowsett and 10th Mike Bravener. Kelly Hylton won the Gospel competition. Mark Anthony won the Fan's Choice Award.
A wrap party with Elvis tribute artists and others singing in the hotel pub gave everyone a chance to eat, drink and be merry!
Elvis Week 2011 in Memphis, Tennessee was a wonderful reunion of so many in our Elvis family. It was enjoyable seeing so many dear friends from around the world! GaryElvis appeared and entertained in a number of venues during the week before having to leave early Friday. He drove to Birmingham to play in the inaugural Alabama vs. Auburn flag football game. Former players from the two universities met to raise money for the tornado relief fund in Alabama.
The King of the World:
The King of the World Elvis Tribute Artist World Championships was held Tuesday through Saturday, August 9 through 13, at the Marriott
Memphis East. GaryElvis performed during the Tuesday night semifinals. He wore a Blue Fringe jumpsuit, while entertaining the audience
with Way Down and Just Pretend.
GaryElvis was honored to have been asked to say the opening prayer Tuesday through Thursday nights. He gladly accepted and brought a spiritual element to the contest. On Tuesday night, GaryElvis thrilled the audience when he sang the songs Way Down, Hurt and Just Pretend, while wearing his Blue Fringe jumpsuit.
Wednesday night, 12 non pro and 24 pro finalists were announced. Friday night 10 pro finalists were announced.
At the conclusion of the Saturday night finals, the pro division results were as follows: 1st Dwight Icenhower, 2nd Tim 'E' Hendry, 3rd Pete Storm. And for the non pro division, Anthony Shore was the winner. David Lee won the People's Choice. Rick Saucedo was presented with an award for the Elvis Tribute Artist Hall of Fame, the first inductee.
St. Jude's:
On Wednesday, GaryElvis, Todd Martin and Dwight Icenhower visited St. Jude Childrens' Research Hospital. Elvis
performed a show to benefit St. Jude in 1957. The funds helped Danny Thomas to achieve his dream of helping to make
the world a better place for children with cancer and other terminal illnesses. Elvis further supported St. Jude by
donating a yacht, the U.S.S. Potomac, in 1964. The proceeds of the sale went to St. Jude. This hospital, one of Elvis'
favorite charities, continues to receive funds from fans and friends of Elvis.
Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest:
The Elvis Presley Enterprises-sponsored Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist contest was held at the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Memphis
Thursday and Friday, August 12 and 13. GaryElvis attended the semifinals round one Thursday afternoon. GaryElvis was approached
numerous times by fans wishing to say hello and for pictures. He was, as always, very accommodating. In the Ultimate round one,
26 contestants each sang one song. GaryElvis spent time with his good buddy Roy Leblanc from London, Ontario, Canada, who won the
Memphis Hard Rock contest and earned his place among the 26. Twenty five of those contestants won preliminary contests over the
last year in the United States, Canada, Europe, Japan and Australia, and one won a Twitter Fan's Choice. At the conclusion of round one,
15 finalists were announced who would go on to round two. We enjoyed a delicious meal at Blues City Barbecue on Beale Street with friends
Richard and Sandra Rosenthal.
Then, we returned to the Orpheum Theatre for round two of the Ultimate semifinals. Each contestant sang one song and then returned to sing one additional song. The field then was narrowed to ten contestants who would go on to the finals Friday night.
At the conclusion of Friday night's Ultimate finals, the winner of the 2011 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest was Cody Slaughter. Second place was awarded to Ben Klein, and third place went to Pete Storm. Mark Anthony was the winner of the Ultimate Elvis Spirit of Elvis award. The award was voted on by the Elvis tribute artists competing in the Ultimate and presented for the one Ultimate contestant who most demonstrates sportsmanship, integrity, helpfulness and fan appreciation.
Time flew by and the wonderful week was over. As always, we’re so thankful for the friendships we’ve made through the Elvis world and for the support and encouragement everyone shows GaryElvis. There are truly too many names to list, but it was great to see everyone and spend time with friends!
GaryElvis won 3rd place in the Tampa Elvis Festival/Contest held in Tampa, Florida July 16.
GaryElvis won 5th place in the Professional Division at the Windsor Elvis Fest in Windsor, Ontario, Canada held June 24-26.
GaryElvis won 2nd place in Elvis in Branson, a Tributes to a King World championship preliminary held October 22-24 in Branson, Missouri.
GaryElvis won 1st place in Gene Shaw's Memories of Elvis Contest, a 2010 Images of the King Regional Contest, held March 27 in West Monroe, Louisiana. He sang "Hurt," "Polk Salad Annie," "It's Midnight," and "How Great Thou Art." GaryElvis wore the purple owl jumpsuit, along with the cape for the finale, a favorite suit of many fans. Congratulations GaryElvis! Come out and support GaryElvis during the Images of the King finals to be held during Elvis Week in Memphis.
Elvis Week 2009 in Memphis, Tennessee was full of enjoyable activities from start to finish. GaryElvis sang in a number of venues and greeted fans and friends all week long.
Hard Rock:
The Last Chance Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist contest was held Saturday through Monday, August 8-10. This
was the last official Ultimate preliminary round that would qualify one final contestant to join the
other Elvis entertainers who had previously qualified at contests around the world. The Elvis Presley
Enterprise-sponsored Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist contest would be held August 12 and 13 at the Cannon
Center in downtown Memphis.
GaryElvis was one of eight ETAs chosen to perform Saturday evening in the first of two Final rounds. He belted out "Hurt," rocked the crowd with "Way Down" and followed up with soulful renditions of "You'll Never Walk Alone" and "How Great Thou Art." He looked striking in his white with turquoise Phoenix jumpsuit, a replica of a jumpsuit that Elvis wore in concerts in 1972 and 1973. He obviously impressed the judges as well as the enthusiastic audience. When the master of ceremonies asked for the judges' response to GaryElvis' performance, they commented on his great talent, how very well done his performance was and how good a vocal range he has. One judge stated, "He hit it. He hit it very well!" Rightly so, GaryElvis was announced as one of the finalists who would go on to compete in Monday night's Last Chance Ultimate finals. The others who would join him were Tony Witt, Tom Christopher, Mark Anthony and Robert Washington.
Eleven ETAs performed Sunday night, and the following four would go on to compete Monday night: Joseph Hall, David Allen, Mario Kombou and Mark Rio.
Monday night GaryElvis took the stage to "Also Sprach Zarathustra" (Theme From 2001: a Space Odyssey), the introduction Elvis used from 1969 onwards. GaryElvis was quite a presence in his elaborately studded and bejeweled Aloha eagle jumpsuit, a replica of the jumpsuit Elvis wore in the famous "Aloha from Hawaii" concert beamed round the world in January 1973. During GaryElvis' first song, "Hurt," much to his and the audience's surprise, Portia Griffin, member of The Inspirations, came up to the stage to harmonize with him, a rare treat for all indeed. He followed that special performance with Portia with "Unchained Melody," "Fever" and "My Way." At the conclusion of Monday night's performances by the ETAs, it was announced that Joseph Hall was the winner of the Last Chance Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist contest and would proceed to the Ultimate semifinals Wednesday evening at the Cannon Center.
The Tent:
GaryElvis performed Tuesday afternoon at the tent at Graceland Crossings, informally known to fans simply as "the Tent." He
delighted the crowd with these Elvis classics: "Little Sister," "Stand By Me," "Memories," "Mess of Blues," "Are You Lonesome
Tonight," and "Blue Hawaii." In addition, he sang his original song "Workin' and Lovin'."
Michael Hoover Fan Club Luncheon:
GaryElvis attended Michael Hoover's Fan Club Luncheon and birthday celebration Wednesday. Happy 60th (August 9th) to Michael
Hoover! The luncheon was held at Marlowe's and was open to the public. A good time was had by all!
Forest Hill: After enjoying some of the ETAs at the tent, GaryElvis and Moira were invited by Bradley Scott to take a ride a few miles down the road to Forest Hill Cemetery, where Elvis was originally laid to rest August 18, 1977. It was a bit sobering to see this location, one we'd previously seen only in photographs and videos. Several visitors had left roses entwined in the gate, and a white bust of Elvis sits atop a black fabric-draped pedestal in the Presley mausoleum, which appears to now be empty. Elvis music was playing in the building when we visited, yet it was a little loud and more raucous than respectful. Gladys and Elvis Presley's bodies were moved October 2, 1977 to Graceland's Meditation Garden, a location considered safer and more protected.
Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest:
GaryElvis attended the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest semifinals August 12 and the finals August 13 at the Cannon Center
in downtown Memphis. At the conclusion of the semifinals, the field of 20 competitors was narrowed to 10 who would continue onto
the finals the following night. On August 13, the ten competitors performed and the field was narrowed to five. The winner of the
2009 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest was Bill Cherry. Second place was awarded to Donny Edwards, and third place went to Kevin
Mills. GaryElvis was approached numerous times by fans wishing to say hello and for pictures. He was, as always, very accommodating.
Vernon Presley’s Home:
GaryElvis, Moira, Shirley Schwebs, Bobby Memphis, Debbie Wails, Randy Elvis Walker, Alecia met for lunch Thursday at The Kettle
on Brooks Road. Everyone had an enjoyable time! We followed with a trip to Vernon Presley’s Home on Dolan, where Jimmy Velvet,
Sandi Pichon, Sonny West and others were holding a book signing event.
Images of the King:
The 23rd annual Images of the King World Championship Contest was held Tuesday, August 11 through Sunday, August 16 at the Holiday
Inn Select. Preliminary rounds were Tuesday through Thursday nights. Dressed in his white with turquoise Phoenix jumpsuit, GaryElvis
performed in the Tuesday Preliminary round and sang "CC Rider," "Blue Suede Shoes," "Polk Salad Annie," It's Midnight" and "What Now
My Love." He did very, very well! The finalists were announced Thursday night, and GaryElvis had made it into the finals and would
sing Saturday evening, the second night of the two Final rounds.
Saturday evening GaryElvis thrilled the audience when he appeared onstage in his Purple Own jumpsuit, complete with cape. He sang “Polk Salad Annie” and removed the cape for a subtle, hot rendition of “Fever” and followed with “Let It Be Me” and then ended with a favorite of many “Just Pretend." The ladies were lining the stage five and six deep hoping to be lucky enough to receive a scarf.
Throughout the Images of the King Contest, GaryElvis greeted long-time fans and met many new, enthusiastic admirers. He was most gracious about signing programs when asked, was available for photos and had merchandise available for sale.
The Images of the King winners were announced Saturday night and were as follows: 1st place—-Jesse Aron (WI), 2nd place—-Chris Connor (Manchester, England) and tied for 3rd place--Joseph Hall (NE) and Cody Slaughter (TN). Bobby Simkins (MO) was awarded the People's Choice Award, and the Spirit of Elvis Award was awarded to Nina Hoeksema.
The Images of the King Breakfast of Champions was held Sunday morning at the Holiday Inn Select. As always, this is a wonderful way to wrap up Elvis Week! It provides fans an opportunity to hear this year's Images of the King winner as well as winners from years past and to say goodbye to friends. As the Spirit of Elvis winner for 2002, GaryElvis was once again honored to give the invocation and prayer for the special gathering. Later in the program, he sang the beautiful song "He Touched Me." GaryElvis along with Jesse Aron, 2009 World Champion, and all the past Images of the King world champions present at the breakfast (Michael Hoover, ’88, Mario Kombou, ’05, Franz Goovaerts, ‘06) gathered to sing "Amazing Grace.”
Graceland:
We toured Graceland Sunday. Since the vigil was held Saturday night, attendance for tours was light. This enabled plenty of time
to get some great pictures, during which GaryElvis was more than patient. The tour is always exciting. Elvis’ presence is still
there in the place he called home during his lifetime. The Graceland staff does a fine job of keeping the house and grounds immaculate
and varies items displayed from their vast collection. It seems on each subsequent visit visitors will notice something new.
Senatobia, MS:
GaryElvis attended a Sunday evening worship service and a very tasty potluck supper at the Crockett Church of Christ in Senatobia,
MS with Bobby and Georgia Stewart and Mack and Mary Sue Gurley. GaryElvis took a turn leading the congregation in song. Back in Memphis
in the 50's and 60's, Bobby and Mack had been close, personal friends of Elvis’. After dinner, the Stewart home was the setting for
storytelling and an awesome jam session!
Elvis Week:
Each year Elvis Week is a huge Elvis family reunion. The Kettle Restaurant on Brooks Road is a favorite meeting place throughout
the week to enjoy time with our friends Bunny, Camille and Rhoda (a.k.a. the NJ gals) and others. Marlowe’s on E.P. Blvd. is another
favorite spot, especially for ribs.
As always, we’re so thankful for the friendships we’ve made through the Elvis world and for the support and encouragement everyone shows GaryElvis. There are truly too many names to list, but it was great to see everyone and spend time with friends!
Mike Cira captured several of GaryElvis’ Images of the King contest performances, so those and photos from Elvis Week have been posted on GaryElvis’ website and the official GaryElvis Yahoo fan club.
GaryElvis placed 4th in the Seminole Elvis Fest Images of the King preliminary competition, which was held in Immokalee, FL July 4.
For the 4th year running, GaryElvis was headliner, host and emcee for the 4th Annual Windsor Elvis Fest June 26, 27 and 28 in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. The city of Windsor is a beautiful city just across the Detroit River from Detroit, Michigan. The city has many great restaurants and the people never fail to make visitors feel welcome. The Centres for Seniors Executive Director, Ellen Hope, and her team of volunteers once again ran a fun-filled festival. The Windsor Star newspaper reported that this, the fourth festival held in Windsor, drew 4,000 fans, an increase of 33%. For the third straight year, this was an EPE-sanctioned Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist preliminary competition.
Windsor Elvis fest benefits Centres for Seniors Windsor, which the weekend program described as a non-profit, registered charity that offers recreational, educational, creative arts and social programs that promote a healthy active lifestyle for seniors. The program added that Centres for Seniors also provides community support services such as transportation, and matching caring volunteers with isolated, homebound elderly in order to keep them independently living in their homes as long as possible.
An open mic session held Friday afternoon in Dieppe Park from 3 to 7 p.m. kicked off the Windsor Elvis Fest weekend. A Showcase and Dance Party followed at 7:30 p.m. As weekend host GaryElvis opened the evening's show and sang "Promised Land." He welcomed the ExSpence Account Showband (EAS), Brenen and Brycen Katolinski, James Gibb, Patrick McGuire and the "Blooz Brothers" (Jeff Marsh and Doug McKenzie). GaryElvis later captivated the crowd with "Bridge Over Troubled Water."
The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest preliminary competition qualifying rounds for all divisions and the youth competition were held Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Dieppe Park. The audience was given a comical sample of the upcoming evening show by Saturday evening's headliners, Jay Zanier, Chris Ayotte, Pete Paquette and GaryElvis, just enough to whet their appetites. In addition, Gary Elvis sang "Stand By Me," another enticing sample of what the audience could expect for Sunday's GaryElvis Gospel Show. Saturday’s events included a classic car show featuring more than 75 cars from Elvis’ era.
Saturday evening's show, "Elvis and More," was held in the beautiful Chrysler Theatre in downtown Windsor. EAS provided accompaniment for the evening's headliners: GaryElvis Britt, Pete Paquette, Chris Ayotte and Jay Zanier. GaryElvis handed over the evening's emcee role to Chris Ayotte who entertained the crowd with numerous voice impersonations ranging from Jimmy Stewart to Dean Martin to several American Presidents, as well as performing in black leather as Elvis. Next up was the exciting Pete Paquette performing Elvis in the Early Years. Then came Jay Zanier with the early Vegas years and then GaryElvis took the stage in his elaborately studded and bejeweled Aloha eagle jumpsuit, a replica of the jumpsuit Elvis wore in the famous "Aloha from Hawaii" concert beamed round the world in January 1973. He delighted the audience with "2001 CC Rider," "Hurt," "Bridge Over Troubled Water," "Fever," "Just Pretend" and "Polk Salad Annie." He followed these with "What Now My Love" and "American Trilogy," both of which received standing ovations. And in typical Elvis-fashion wrapped up his set with "Can't Help Falling in Love With You." He then bowed and brought back out Chris, Pete and Jay and they finished with Viva Las Vegas as the almost sell-out crowd cheered and sang along.
The GaryElvis Gospel Show was held at Dieppe Park Sunday morning. GaryElvis' idea to create a Gospel choir show composed of ETAs went over so well at Windsor Elvis Fest 2008 that he arranged another that was even bigger and better for this year's Elvis Fest. The GaryElvis Windsor Gospel Show featured 35 ETAs singing Elvis's gospel music. GaryElvis wishes to give his heart-felt thanks to all of the guys who graciously donated their time and efforts.
The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest preliminary competition semifinals for the nonpro and pro divisions were followed by the Grand Champion competition. During one of the breaks, GaryElvis teamed up with Cathy Carbone from Hamilton , Ontario to perform "You Don't Bring Me Flowers Anymore" as a Neil Diamond/Barbra Streisand duet.
Congratulations to the Winners of the 2009 Windsor Elvis Fest!
RESULTS OF THE 2009 WINDSOR ELVIS FEST
Festival overall winners
1. Ray Guillemette Jr. (EPE Ultimate qualifier & headed to Memphis)
2. Anthony Von
Pro Vegas Years
1. Ray Guillamette Jr.
2. Bryant Scott
3. Patrick McGuire
4. John Cigan
5. Roy Leblanc
People’s Choice Patrick McGuire
Pro Early Years
1. Anthony Von
2. James Gibb
3. Lance Dobinson
4. Chris Solano
5. Randy Love
People’s Choice James Gibb
Non-Pro Vegas Years
1. Rick Duin
2. Kevin Bezaire
3. T.J. Jackson
4. Dwayne Bezaire
5. Doug McKenzie
People’s Choice Dwayne Bezaire
Non-Pro Early Years
1. Joey Cundari
2. Norm R. Ackland
3. Bill Cruise
4. Sam Calleri
5. Gary MacDonald
People’s Choice Norm R. Ackland
Youth Junior
1. Brenen Katolinsky
People’s Choice Brenen Katolinsky
Youth Senior
1. Anthony Carbone
2. Brycen Katolinsky
3. Jake Slater
4. Bruno Nesci
People’s Choice Anthony Carbone
GaryElvis again did an excellent job as weekend host for the Windsor Elvis Festival. His knowledge of the business and experience gained by performing and by competing in over 200 competitions make him a most valuable asset. He excels in assisting the festival organizers with preparation activities and promotion, coordinating events and acting as an emcee and as a liaison for the ETAs and other performers. This year's "Media Kickoff" in May was especially fun with Frank Cross, Patrick McGuire, Jake Slater, James Gibb, Kevin Bezaire and GaryElvis performing at the Hilton Hotel. GaryElvis is also very proud to arrange and sing in Sunday morning's GaryElvis Gospel Show. Further, his headlining Saturday evening’s show at the Chrysler Theater was enjoyed by all.
Be sure to check GaryElvis’ website Photos page or his Yahoo GaryElvis Official Fan Club website for pictures from these events.
Dear Fans and Friends:
Here I am again to tell you about the great trip to Lake George, N.Y. with our one and only
“GaryElvis.” It started out once again with me getting to Plant City so that Chris and GaryElvis picked me up to get to the Tampa airport at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 28th. We once again had a great flight to Albany and picked up our rental car which to my complete surprise was a beautiful powder blue Lincoln (my favorite color) and we also picked up Janice Duby from Saginaw, Michigan that met us and rode to Lake George. I was amazed on the beauty of the trees, mountains and hills. We got to our motel and then went off to Shepards Park for a great concert that several of the ETA’s put on. It rained a little but, not enough to spoil anything. Friday was the first round of the competition and GaryElvis came on stage and sang “Way Down” and “Just Pretend” with such a beautiful style and voice that everyone was awestricken by his perfection. Then there was the dinner with the tribute artists and at 8:30 “The Great Pretenders” concert that was fantastic. After hours party at the Boardwalk Restaurant next. Then Sat. morning at 9:00 a.m. was the classic car parade with our “GaryElvis” in the lead convertible and Janice and I in the “GaryElvis” decorated blue Lincoln playing his CD and waving to people in the parade. On to The Painted Pony and the second round of the Elvis Tribute Artist competition. GaryElvis once again presented himself on stage with perfection and sang “How Great Thou Art” and “Polk Salad Annie” and received standing ovation of which was greatly earned. Then off to King Neptune’s Pub and sang for everyone there and everyone wanted more and more. Sunday morning there was the Gospel concert of which was very inspiring and comforting. Sunday afternoon the competition finals and awards. We went to dinner with some of GaryElvis’s friends and had a lovely time then off to the Minne-Ha-Ha at dockside to join in with the other ETA’s. Every evening we had some ice cream to finish off the end of the day. Had to take Janice to airport at 4:00 a.m. so slept for an hour and off on the road again. On the way back GaryElvis took me to Maude’s Restaurant in Glens Falls at 5:00 a.m. We had coffee, waffle with strawberries and cream. It was the neatest place and he returned a pie dish that he had for a year. There is just never a dull moment when you travel with “GaryElvis” no matter where you go. Later that day Monday we drove back to the airport in Albany and flew out and got back to Tampa at a little after 10:00 p.m. Monday evening. There is a special “Garyism” that I must end this with and it is a saying of his. “It is what it is it ain’t what it ain’t and that’s all there is!!” No, GaryElvis did not win or get in the finals but, in my heart “he is always a winner.”
Shirley Schwebs
Fan Club President
P.S. Looking forward to the next trip.
Just love that man, he is the greatest!!!
The Lake George Elvis Festival was held Thursday, May 28 through Sunday, May 31. The qualifying rounds, finals and evening shows were held at The Painted Pony Festival Grounds in Lake Luzerne, NY. The ETAs performed during the day Saturday at various venues, and the opening night and after-hours parties and the Elvis classic car parade were held in Lake George, NY. Friday evening’s show, “The Great Pretenders Legend Show,” featured Ted Torres as Ricky Nelson, Robert Washington as James Brown, Irv Cass as Tom Jones, Steve Bobbit as Rod Stewart and Dwight Icenhower as Elton John. Saturday evening’s show, “On Stage: 1969 Opening Night at the International,” a recreation of Elvis’ opening night at the International Hotel in Las Vegas starred Dwight Icenhower and Ted Torres.
RESULTS OF THE 2009 LAKE GEORGE ELVIS FESTIVAL
Professional Elvis Tribute Artist - 70s Division
1. Kevin Mills (Grand Champion - Representing Lake George in Memphis) (Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada)
2. Robert Washington (Auburn, Maine)
3. Rick Huntress (Haverhill, Massachusetts)
4. Bryant Scott (Montreal, Quebec, Canada)
5. Steve Mitchell (Wantagh, New York)
Professional Elvis Tribute Artist - 50s-60s Division
1. Matt Joyce (Conway, Arkansas)
2. Larry Tschekalin (Sudbury, Ontario, Canada)
3. James Begley (Oshawa, Ontario, Canada)
4. Bruce Heron (Guelph, Ontario, Canada)
5. Drew Polsun (Scotia, New York)
Non-Professional Elvis Tribute Artist - 70s Division
1. Anthony Carbone (Hamilton, Ontario, Canada)
2. Kevin Hupka (Cleveland, Ohio)
3. John Cigan (Pickering, Ontario, Canada)
4. Eric "ERock" Haws (Buckner, Missouri)
5. Tom Gilbo (N. Syracuse, New York)
Non-Professional Elvis Tribute Artist - 50s-60s Division
1. Carl Brandon (Beauport, Quebec, Canada)
2. Brycen Katolinsky (St. Catherines, Ontario, Canada)
3. Sean Rowan (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada)
4. Wayne Curtis (Tully, New York)
5. David Korotkov (Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada)
Youth Elvis Tribute Artist Division
1. Brenen Katolinsky (St. Catherines, Ontario, Canada)
2. Matthew Boyce (Saratoga Springs, New York)
3. Jackson Begley (Oshawa, Ontario, Canada)
Fan's Choice Award: Erick "ERock" Haws
GaryElvis was very happy for the winners and congratulated each one. He is always a gentleman and consistently goes out of his way to help the other Elvis entertainers in any way possible. Be sure to check GaryElvis’ website Photos page or his Yahoo GaryElvis Official Fan Club website for pictures from these events.
GaryElvis placed 3rd in the Frankfort Special III Bluegrass Tribute to the King Contest, a preliminary Images of the King competition. The contest was held in Frankfort, Kentucky February 27 and 28. Results were as follows: Brad McCrady 1st, Jesse Aron 2nd, GaryElvis Britt 3rd and Will Reynolds People's Choice.
I must start with my story a few days before leaving. The E.P. Continentals festival was the weekend of February 27, 28 and March 1 of which I had plans to attend. Was busy doing miscellaneous things Thursday evening when my phone rang about ten or so, and it was GaryElvis saying, "Hey, can you get to Tampa Airport at 4:30 a.m. and fly out to Lexington with me?" And I said, "Wow, I don't know, will call you back." I called a friend and he could not take me, so the only other thought was my granddaughter's boyfriend. I asked him to take me, and he said, "Sure." Then I started to pack. Couldn't believe I was leaving to go to Kentucky with GaryElvis. Tried to lay down for a half hour but was just too excited, so there was no sleep. Got to the Country Market in Plant City and Chris, Gary's lovely wife, took us to Tampa Airport and away we went heading for Frankfort. Arrived in Lexington and got rental car at Hertz and drove to Frankfort. In the process of getting the rental car, the lady at the desk took one look at GaryElvis and that was the beginning of our "GaryElvis trip." Before we left the car rental, GaryElvis had sang and gave his card and stickers out to Hertz, Avis, Enterprise ladies, and he left them "awestricken."
The next step was driving to Frankfort and checking in at the Capital Plaza Hotel. What a beautiful place, and low and behold as soon as I entered the hotel GaryElvis introduced me to some wonderful friends of his from Saginaw, Michigan, Janice Duby and Johnny Rydel. From the door of the hotel I started meeting all kinds of people that GaryElvis introduced me to. Check in was over, freshened up, changed clothes and then to the room where the doors opened at 6:00 p.m. and contest started at 7:00 p.m. There were 15 contestants and with great anticipation GaryElvis was number 14. What an awesome sight when GaryElvis walked up on stage and started singing his three songs, "Way Down," "My Way," and "What a Wonderful World." There was a standing ovation when he descended off stage. After a short period of time we all said good night and went to sleep, which was long overdue.
Got up early Saturday morning and we all met downstairs in the restaurant for a lunch buffet. What a great buffet, and Bill Kelly sang. Doug Church and all the contestants sang two songs each. GaryElvis sang the two songs he wrote, "Stuff Happens" and "Workin' and Lovin'." After that all the guys had a second chance to sing two more, and GaryElvis sang "What a Wonderful World" and "Just Pretend." It was just awesome. Then all the guys sang "Peace in the Valley" together. It was beautiful! Then we all moved on into the other room, and there was a special showcase concert featuring Bill Kelly, Freddy B and Doug Church at 3:00. At 6:00 p.m. the contest started. Once again, when GaryElvis approached the stage and went into "Fever," it was perfection. And then from there, he went on to "Just Pretend" and "Bridge Over Troubled Water." There was a standing ovation, and people were awestruck with the beautiful sound and movements that GaryElvis did on stage. Then low and behold it was time for the picking of the seven finalists, and of course GaryElvis was one of the seven finalists. Then came the final step. People's Choice went to Will Reynolds, 1st went to Brad McCrady, 2nd to Jesse Aron and then "our man" GaryElvis was 3rd. Of course, my opinion was different, but I am one amongst many. GaryElvis is #1 in my heart and mind and always will be. We finished off the evening with a group of us going to eat.
Sunday morning was another wonderful day where Janice, Johnny, GaryElvis and myself all went to the lobby and had a Bible study together
with GaryElvis singing and heading the Bible study. There were several people that joined us, and Ryan Roth stopped by and sang also. It
was a peaceful morning. Then we said our goodbyes to many friends until next time and off to the airport. The checks in ladies Venessa, Carol,
Grier, Theresa all were waiting for GaryElvis with cameras, and there was a picture taking session with everyone. They even came out to the plane
for hugs and smiles and singing from GaryElvis. They just went wild with him. After sitting on the plane for a while, we had to get out because of
a leak up front and no more flights were available that night. We wouldn't be leaving Lexington until Monday. The airline took us to the Hyatt, where
we had free dinner and breakfast. Dinner was another wonderful time. The female manager used to work in Brandon, Florida, and her and two other
employees talked with us for over an hour. Their names were Theresa, Ashley and Anthony, really wonderful people. And of course GaryElvis did some
more singing. A waiter by the name of Stevie was great also at breakfast. We had to say goodbye again and get to the airport. We got to fly out of
Lexington at last, and through our airport travels Gary met the Arkansas Women's track team and Coach Lance Harter and Asst. Coach Lonnie from
Arkansas University. GaryElvis even was singing to the flight attendant and stewardess. I never had such a wonderful weekend in my whole entire
life as the weekend I had with GaryElvis in Kentucky, with all the laughs and crazy things that man does and he is just the most kindest, loving,
caring, talented, fun, handsome man that there is. His lovely wife Chris is the luckiest lady there is. All ages just love GaryElvis Britt.
The teenagers adore him and the older ladies and just everyone, and he loves children and everyone also. We sure added to our fan club list
with this trip, and I feel so special and honored to be able to go with him and be GaryElvis' Fan Club President. GaryElvis Britt is the
absolute greatest there is!!!!!
Love him dearly,
Shirley Schwebs
The Elvis Extravaganza Impersonator Contest National Finals & Fan Convention was held at the Florida State Fair February 14 and 15 in Tampa, Florida. GaryElvis and other Elvis tribute performers sang at special karaoke events held at the Holiday Inn on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, where Jeremy Ewbank again did a great job as DJ!
The opening night party was held Friday at the Holiday Inn across from the State Fairgrounds. It was an opportunity to be reacquainted with fans and friends before the contest began Saturday. GaryElvis entertained those at the party when he sang “And I Love You So,” “Hurt,” “Let It Be Me ”and“ I’ll Never Fall in Love Again.”
Competition rounds were held at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday in the 5,000-seat Sweetbay Entertainment Hall on the grounds of the Florida State Fair. All rounds were well attended. Elvis’ music still continues to draw so many people of all ages!
GaryElvis entertained the crowd at the 3 p.m. round on Saturday dressed in his white with turquoise Phoenix jumpsuit, a replica of a jumpsuit that Elvis wore in concerts in 1972 and 1973. He sang "It's Now or Never" beautifully, including a Shaun (a.k.a. Sherrill) Nielsen-style "O Sole Mio" a cappella introduction, and “Hurt.” There was a meet and greet with the Elvis entertainers at the conclusion of the round. Fans of GaryElvis’ were well represented. Donna and her daughter Tonya and her daughter M’Cayla from Macclenny, Florida were dressed in their GaryElvis attire, including very cool shirts and jeweled jackets. Friends there from the Hard Rock Café, among others, were Steve, George, Chris, Trisha and Debbie. Shirley Schwebs, GaryElvis’ fan club president was hard at work signing new fans for his fan club. GaryElvis was his friendly self, as always, and was available for photo opportunities with fans and the other Elvis entertainers.
Friends and fans met again for a party at the Holiday Inn Saturday evening. GaryElvis introduced and thanked Vickie May from the Tampa Bay TCB Fan Club, Shelby Ewbank from the Elvis Fun Gathering, Nancy Tint from the E.P. Continentals and Mary from the All Shook Up Fan Club. GaryElvis delighted the crowd with the song “It’s Over.”
All the Elvis Tributes Artists who competed were present for the grand finale of the Elvis Extravaganza Contest at the conclusion of the 6 p.m. round. GaryElvis was dazzling in his Blue Rainfall jumpsuit, a replica of a jumpsuit that Elvis wore in concerts from 1973 to 1977.
The winners of the Elvis Extravaganza were as follows: Billy Lindsey—Best Overall, Best Look Alike, People’s Choice and Jerome Jackson—Best Sound Alike. GaryElvis was very happy for the winners and congratulated each one. He is always a gentleman and consistently goes out of his way to help the other Elvis entertainers in any way possible.
In the Post Convention Update, Program Director Jake Sommers reported, “Although the following places were not awarded we would like to recognize them: 2nd place Best Overall: Tie: Olav Wischulke, Germany and GaryElvis Britt, Plant City, FL.” Way to go GaryElvis! Mr. Sommers also reported 2nd place Best Sound Alike: Tie: Maurice Sheps and Ricky King and for 2nd place Best Look Alike: Brian Brenner.
Sunday night a final gathering of the Elvis Tribute Artists and friends was held at the Holiday Inn. Those present were in for a real treat when GaryElvis sang “The Wonder of You,” “The Hawaiian Wedding Song,” and “Let It Be Me.”
Be sure to check GaryElvis’ website Photos page or his Yahoo GaryElvis Official Fan Club website for pictures.
GaryElvis was voted "The Spirit of Elvis" award by the audience at the "I'll Remember You" Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, which was held January 30 and 31 at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, FL.
The Tribute to the King Contest was held in the Northern Lights Theater at the Potawatomi Casino in Milwaukee, Wisconsin Monday, January 5 through Thursday, January 8. Two elimination rounds were held each of the first three days, and the winners of each elimination round qualified for that evening's final. On the fourth day, Thursday, one wild card round was held. Winners of the evening finals and the wild card round went on to compete in the big final night on Thursday. The grand prize was $25,001; the competition is similar to a marathon and thoroughly enjoyable.
Ryan Pelton entertained nightly during the Tribute to the King Contest for an appreciative crowd in the sold-out or nearly sold-out theater. Joining Pelton on stage were Elvis' drummer D.J. Fontana and The Imperials, the Grammy Award-winning vocal group whose incredible voices backed Elvis at the Las Vegas Hilton International Hotel and on concert tours.
GaryElvis' song selections for the Monday rounds were "Funny How Time Slips Away," "My Way," "A Little Less Conversation," and the song so many love that he does "Just Pretend." GaryElvis looked stunning in his Blue Rainfall jumpsuit, a replica of a jumpsuit that Elvis wore in concerts from 1973 to 1977.
GaryElvis took the stage next on Tuesday at 12 p.m. wearing his jumpsuit du jour, the Blue Fringe. He had the ladies swooning when he sang "Fever" in an Elvis way, subtle and hot. GaryElvis had the audience in the palm of his hand when he followed that with an absolutely excellent version of "Hurt." During the 3 p.m. round, he oozed across the stage while singing "Way Down" and followed with a reverent "America the Beautiful."
During the first round Wednesday, GaryElvis sang a rockin' rendition of "A Big Hunk of Love," and then interacted with the audience even more than usual during "Just Pretend." He looked great in his white with turquoise Phoenix jumpsuit, a replica of a jumpsuit that Elvis wore in concerts in 1972 and 1973.
The three ETAs who won the evening competitions and thus pre-qualified for the Thursday night final competition were Kevin Mills from Ontario, Canada, Ben Klein from Spokane, Washington and Robert Washington from Auburn, Maine.
Each of the ETAs competing in Thursday's wild card round each sang one song. GaryElvis sang "It's Now or Never" beautifully, including a Shaun (a.k.a. Sherrill) Nielsen-style "O Sole Mio" a cappella introduction. Joseph Hall won the wild card round Thursday afternoon, which pre-qualified him for the final round. The competition was intense! In fact, GaryElvis pointed out that in this competition there are seven Professional World Champions and one Non-Pro World Champion. Potawatomii Casino master of ceremonies Bob Rech shared this fact with the audience.
Ben Klein won 1st place, Joseph Hall 2nd place, Robert Washington 3rd place and Kevin Mills 4th place. A total of 19 Elvis Tribute performers competed in eight overall rounds. In addition to GaryElvis and those previously mentioned the following Elvis Tribute Artists also competed: Mike Albert, Chris Ayotte, Doug Church, Matt Joyce, Kavan, Travis Morris, David Muggeridge, Michael O'Connor, Pete Paquette, Shawn Sharp, Ted Torres, Vic Trevino Jr., John VanThiel and Brian Whitten. Matt Joyce won the competitors’ vote for the Congeniality Elvis Award. GaryElvis was very happy for the winners and congratulated each one. He is always a gentleman and constantly goes out of his way to help the other ETAs.
GaryElvis extends his thanks and appreciation to the Northern Lights Theater staff. Thanks to Rachel Buelow, Entertainment Coordinator, for putting it all together. Thanks to Bob Rech, Entertainment Manager, for his role as the lighthearted master of ceremonies. Thanks to Jamie Cobb, Production Manager. Also, thanks to those on the sound board and the stage crew that did a terrific job!
What better way to celebrate Elvis' Birthday, January 8, than by attending an Elvis tribute competition? As always, we’re so thankful for the friendships we’ve made through the Elvis world and for the support and encouragement everyone shows GaryElvis. We were glad to see Jesse and Tarie Aron there! There are truly too many names to list, but it was great to meet everyone and spend time with friends!
Content date: January 20, 2012
Date Updated: January 20, 2012
Copyright 2012. All rights reserved.