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Datebook: June 7 - Graceland Opens to Public 30 Years Ago

Maha, Wikimedia Commons

The home of the King of Rock & Roll opened to the public on this day in 1982, revealing its gaudy and garish glory to all. 

Graceland is a large, white-columned mansion on a 13.8 acre estate located in the Whitehaven community of Memphis. It's one of the most-visited private homes in the US, after the White House and Biltmore Estate, with over 600,000 visitors each year. The land was originally owned by S.C. Toof, who owned a commercial printing firm, and named the land after his daughter Grace. The mansion has 23 rooms, including eight bedrooms and bathrooms. Elvis added the walls, gates, swimming pool, racquetball court, and the "Jungle Room." Lisa Marie Presley inherited the estate (her childhood home), though sold most of it in 2005. Though tourists can only visit the first floor, Elvis' bedroom on the second floor has remained untouched since the day he died. Be sure to relay the message when you see him at the gas station.

It’s Thursday, June 7

The Humane Society of Calloway County is looking for loving foster homes for dogs of all ages and sizes, as well as a pot-bellied pig and a house rabbit.  The Humane Society will provide medical care and can reimburse everyday expenses such as food.  For more information or to fill out a foster application, visit forthepets.org and click on Get Involved.

Musical entertainment and kids’ activities will be featured this Saturday night in Paducah during Live on Broadway.  Music begins at 7 and lasts until 10, with the Kevin Lucas Orchestra headlining.  Find details at paducahalliance.com.

The annual Superman Celebration begins tonight in downtown Metropolis.  The festival includes a road race, autograph sessions, kids’ activities, contests, live music, outdoor theater presentations, and more.  Events last through Sunday afternoon.  There’s a complete schedule at supermancelebration.net.

Find more community events online at wkms.org.

Kala Dunn is a native of Princeton, Ky. She’s a 2006 graduate of the Interlochen Arts Academy with a concentration in flute performance and a 2010 graduate of Murray State University with a B.M. in piano performance. She lives in Hamlin, Ky.
Matt Markgraf joined the WKMS team as a student in January 2007. He's served in a variety of roles over the years: as News Director March 2016-September 2019 and previously as the New Media & Promotions Coordinator beginning in 2011. Prior to that, he was a graduate and undergraduate assistant. He is currently the host of the international music show Imported on Sunday nights at 10 p.m.
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