Depew Courier/ Friday, January 16, 2015
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JANUARY 16, 2015
80th birthday of Elvis to be celebrated By Jennifer Lysiak
THE LANCASTER SUN EDITOR
Marking what would have been Elvis Presley’s 80th birthday this year, members of the WNY Elvis Appreciation Society, Inc., are planning a big celebration on Saturday, Jan. 24 to not only honor Presley’s memory, but to raise money for Hospice of Buffalo. Still known for his musical influence today, and of course his dance moves and good looks, Presley will always be known as“The King,” and regarded as one
of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century. But what many individuals may not know is Presley was very generous, helping others whenever he could. Members of the society, a non-profit organization, have been celebrating Presley’s birthday with an annual event that gives Elvis fans a night to relive his music and helps to raise money for charity. This event known as “Birthday Party for the King” is going on its seventh year and features Elvis Tribute Artist, Terry Bu-
chwald. It’s also a chance for the society to give back to the Western New York community by raising money for Hospice of Buffalo. “We wanted to honor Elvis’s birthday, which was on Jan. 8, and the best way we thought we could do that was to have an event and raise money for a charity, which is something he was not necessarily known for until he passed away,” explained WNY Elvis Appreciation Society Secretary/Treasurer, Sylvia Walworth. “We chose Hospice to always benefit from this particular event.”
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Terry Buchwald to perform at the ‘Birthday Party for The King.’ In fact, the society is especially proud this year, because the Hospice facility, located on Como Park Boulevard, recently underwent a renovation and they were one of several clubs to have a room dedicated to them. A plaque in the society’s name has been hung outside of room “S-10.” By holding this event yearly, the society has raised close to $30,000 for Hospice. This upcoming party will take them over the $30,000 mark, said Walworth. “It’s awesome,” said Walworth, in regard to having a Hospice room dedicated to them. “It gives me goosebumps every time I think about it. It’s a wonderful feeling to know that a small club of 35 people are able to contribute so much to such a great facility.” Walworth added the society doesn’t do things for recognition, because they
just want to uphold Elvis’s giving nature. However, she said it’s nice to have the recognition, so people see what they’re doing and how their donations make a difference. “We want to continue that legacy,” remarked Walworth. “It’s a feeling wonderful feeling.” Hospice was a easy choice for the society to donate the money raised to, because whether its a relative or a friend, someone has benefitted from the the great works they do, said Walworth. Also, the evening of the party members of the society will be presenting a special gift to Hospice to be put into the room that was dedicated to them. It’s a surprise and it’s one that will truly add Presley’s presence to the room. “[Elvis] changed the course of music history, in
my opinion. If he hadn’t been the person he was at the time he came along, I’m not sure somebody else would have been able to open the door the way he did for all genres of music,” said Walworth. “We have a group of people that believe that this man did great works, both with his money and talent and we need to keep that moving.” The “Birthday Party for the King” will be held from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, at Grapevine Banquets, 333 Dick Road, in Depew. Doors open at 6 p.m. The night will include a basket auction, 50/50, and door prizes, as well as dancing as Buchwald takes the stage performing three sets/ shows. He will be performing Presley’s music beginning with the early years through his Las Vegas days. Tickets are $12 pre-sale and $17 the day of. Tables can be reserved for pre-sale purchase of 10 tickets. A cash bar and food will be available for purchase. For more information about the event or tickets call Walworth at 684-1705 or email wnyeas@yahoo. com. To learn more about the organization visit www. wnyeas.com If you’re interested in becoming a member, the society meets at 7 p.m. on the first Wednesday of a month at Hillview Restaurant, located at 6135 Transit Road, in Depew.