1. And so it ends, until we meet again for EW04 . . .

I had a wonderful time, sharing stories from my new novel, AROUND ELVIS, and I have been overwhelmed with kind words and good reviews.

I met so many of you that I have been corresponding with on the worldwide net and embraced many dear friends and acquaintances. "King Dog James" from Corinth, MS, the first person that bought my book, drove 100 miles so I could sign it. I got to dance and collect kisses from all the lovely ladies and embrace my good buddies.

I missed a lot of the events, while perched in our Harum Scarum tent on E.P Blvd, but I had some special moments along the way that will last forever.

For me ELVIS WEEK means quality time spent with the beloved Patsy Andersen, whom I absolutely adore. It was my greatest joy as an author to have touched her heart when I read to her the excerpt from my book that extols her magnificence while we were at the Grand Casino for the Fan Club Choice Awards . . .

I couldn’t have done a better job scripting the speech given by the Reverend Mother Dolores Hart. (In fact some later accused me of writing it.) Her memories of ELVIS’ passionate side was evident, as she freely expressed the desires she had (has) for this King. among men. Ann-Margaret also sent a video missive to ELVIS and the fans, and her beautiful spirit shone in her eyes as she spoke of their loving bond.

The worst part of the luncheon for me was standing next to Wink Martindale and looking like his older brother; I have to find out who his sorcerer is . . . (That's why I put Steve in there for the photo.) He handled himself with humor and élan, while probing his wife Sandy for the romantic details of her nights dating ELVIS . . . I had a great chat with the always charming Scotty Moore and saw D.J and Karen Fontana again. I was impressed that all of the honored guests were so accessible and gracious to the fans.

I got to sing my version of “Fire Down Below,” on the FOX 13 “Breakfast on Beale Show,” and was interviewed by the enchanting Valerie Calhoun. Later, I got to turn the tables and interview the vivacious Anna Marie Hartman from Channel 5 News in Memphis. She is the significant other of The Dempseys lead guitarist, Brad Birkendahl.

Like many people I was disgusted by the goings on around the tent in the Crossing. The security and police were out in full force, but only to stop anyone from passing out promotional material. I understand that they must protect the corporate interests and see to it that fans spend their money in E.P.E shops, and not with independent peddlers. But to say that we couldn’t pass out a CD to a friend, as I have done thousands of times over the years, or even to share copies of my poem, All These Years of Tears,” is overkill. It’s a shame that they were not as attentive to keeping fans safe from all the drunken buffoons that staggered around every night, making those around them miserable.

I was also off put by the dictatorial rule of the stage. I doubt ten different people got up to sing all week. Each night all the singers were told that there was no list; that only certain people would be going up for hours and hours, night after night, singing the same songs over and over again. It was a boring format and left fans sitting on their hands. Even ELVIS didn’t do 3 and 4-hour shows. The favoritism was evident, as certain people were freely given access, while others were denied all week, no matter how far they had traveled or how many people wanted them to go up there. I was fortunate enough to have been requested enough to be allowed 1 trip to the stage, but then I wasn't asking. It was a much better time for all, back when everyone got up and did 2 songs then split. I hope that by next year the powers that be are replaced with a system of fair treatment that allows for everyone to get up and sing in the tent that ELVIS built.

I am so thrilled when someone reads or listens to my creative works. They are the revelations of my soul . . . particularly when the creation is a tribute to ELVIS. I wish I could make a million CDs and books and give them all away, so everyone could share my expression of devotion to ELVIS. I am glad that the monetary process did not stop us from connecting emotionally. I can only express my appreciation to you by creating a product that you will cherish and ELVIS would be proud of. On behalf of all who are involved with this project, the officers of the fan club, my publishing & production staff, management team, and legal counsel, I offer my deep gratitude for your support.

From my heart to yours, Thorne