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Elvis entertains at Commons at Greenbriar
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Neighbors | Abby Slanker.As a special request, and to celebrate 55 years of marriage, Commons at Greenbriar residents and big Elvis fans Jane and Ron requested a serenade from Elvis tribute artist Ronnie Navarra Feb. 21. Happy to oblige, Elvis serenaded the couple with “I Can’t Help Falling In Love With You” as the other residents looked on.
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Neighbors | Abby Slanker.Ronnie Navarra, an Elvis tribute artist, performed for residents and their families and friends at Commons at Greenbriar Feb. 21.
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Neighbors | Abby Slanker.Ronnie Navarra, an Elvis tribute artist, sang to residents as they clapped along at Commons at Greenbriar Feb. 21.
By ABBY SLANKER
The residents and guests of Commons at Greenbriar were patiently waiting for Elvis to enter the building, and much to their delight, he came in belting out “Don’t Be Cruel” Feb. 21.
As the residents, family and friends danced in their seats, Elvis performed such classics as “Return to Sender,” “The Wonder of You,” “Now or Never,” “Let Me Be There,” “Caught in a Trap” and “One Pair of Hands.”
As a special request, and to celebrate 55 years of marriage, residents and big Elvis fans Jane and Ron requested a serenade from Elvis. Happy to oblige, Elvis serenaded the couple with “I Can’t Help Falling In Love With You.”
While performing, Elvis also handed out scarves to several lucky ladies. During the song “Teddy Bear,” he also handed out stuffed teddy bears to his fans.
“This is the second year we have had Elvis come and perform, so it is turning into an annual event. We invite past residents and family and friends, too. It’s our February event, so we try to do it around Valentine’s Day. He brings scarves and teddy bears for the residents and passes them out as he sings,” said Gina Fernback, Commons at Greenbriar activities director.
Ronnie Navarra, the Elvis tribute artist, has been performing for 18 years. He has traveled the U.S. and the world with his Elvis tributes, including Vegas, Texas, Alabama, Florida and several countries in Europe.
“It all started out as a joke. I was in Vegas and took a picture with one of those displays where you put your head on Elvis’ suit. I am a pretty big Elvis fan. I came home and was showing the pictures to one of the owners of La Rocca’s restaurant in Poland, where I’m from, and he said how much he loves Elvis. He said he was planning a big graduation party for his daughter at Mr. Anthony’s and he wanted me to perform there. At first I said no, but then did perform and it just took off from there. People at the party were asking me for my card,” Navarra said.
Navarra has also performed with several groups as Elvis, including The Drifters, The Platters and The Kingsmen. He has also met Lisa Marie Presley and had his photo taken with her.
“The residents love hearing Elvis sing. They clap along and some even dance. This is a great event for both our residents and their families. It gives them a chance to have fun and spend time together,” Fernback said.