I was 17 when I wrote this item back in 1992 for The Elvis Beat #2, my official Elvis Presley Fan Club newsletter.

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August 16, 1977: A date burned into the memory of almost every Elvis fan. But rather than dwell on the sadness of that day, fans have instead used it as an annual celebration of his many accomplishments.

This year, Elvis fans from across the world will brave the August heat of the South and converge on the city of Memphis to mark the fifteenth anniversary of his passing. Crowds are expected to surpass the enormous amount that made the tenth anniversary excursion in 1987, displaying once again Elvis’ great influence on so many people.

But even more fans across the world will be “celebrating” at their homes, rather than his. Each marking the day in his or her own special way.

1992 has already been an incredible year for Elvis fans. It has seen: The release of a new 1970s concert video and a 5 CD 1950s set, and the official commencement of a 1993 Elvis stamp.

35 years from now, when there are six or seven Elvis stamps and all audio and video material has been officially released, as fans mark the 50th anniversary they will look back at 1992 as a landmark year when a new dedication to quality Elvis releases began and Elvis finally began to receive some of the recognition he so justly deserved.

If you are one of the fortunate people going to Memphis to experience Elvis Week ’92, I would like to wish you a safe and wonderful trip. Although this is a new club, and thus limited to an extent, I have tried my best to make this a very special issue of The Elvis Beat to show my respect and admiration for Elvis. I hope you enjoy it.