Andrew Howard and Zanzibarmusic of Old Bridge will present the fourth annual “Friends of Elvis” convention as it returns to the Toms River Ramada Inn, 2373 Route 9, Toms River, on April 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. A number of Elvis impersonators will pay tribute to the king of rock and roll during the year of his 70th birthday celebration.
A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Vetshouse, an organization that helps homeless veterans get back on track from problems with alcohol and drugs. Friends of Elvis donated $815 for cancer patients at its 2004 convention and $1,500 for Ocean County Arc Jan. 5.
The event will include live, re-created concerts by professional impersonators from across the country, plus vendors of vintage Elvis collectibles, memorabilia, Elvis related toys, and more.
Special guest author Sandi Pichon, author of “Raised on Elvis! Elvis! Elvis!,” will be on hand to discuss her story about how Elvis affected her life.
Also appearing will be guitarist Bill Turner of Bill Haley and the Comets, plus Chris Presley, Ray Kaminski, Paul Aaron, Mike Marchitto, Paul Daniels, Mike Ratcliffe, Jim Smith, Joe Searles, Ray Hoffman, Gene Dinapoli, Roy Propes, Ron Parker, Ruben Castillo and Wayne Rippy. The finale will be performed by special guest Jerry El of New Jersey.
This event is sponsored by Howard Enterprises, B&K Enterprises, and King Tracks. Tickets are $15 per adult and $12 for seniors and will be sold at the door. Vendors will be present for the duration of the show. For more information call (732) 901-5413.