Sandy Rice, program support assistant at the Milwaukee VA, dances with an Elvis impersonator during his performance inside the Recreation Hall on Oct. 9. – Photo by Antony Kamps
Viva Milwaukee VA!
The slicked back black hair, the long sideburns, and the white jumpsuit can only mean one thing -- Elvis was in the building.
Mike Bishop has performed as an Elvis Presley impersonator for close to 14 years. He looks and dresses the part for parties, schools and special events. He performed Oct. 9 inside the Recreation Hall for more than 50 Veterans and staff. Bishop said he does it for a good cause.
“If you ask my mother, I’ve been doing it for 25 years, but its closer to 14 years. Everything I earn I donate to Cysytic Fibrosis research and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.”
He donates the money because he had a nephew pass away at a young age from Cystic Fibrosis. He didn’t accept any money for his performance at the Milwaukee VA because he said he didn’t think it was appropriate.
“Sandy (Rice) asked me to perform, and I gladly accepted,” said Bishop. “I am very grateful to our Veterans for all they have done, and honored to perform for them today.”
Veterans and staff packed the Recreation Hall to watch Elvis perform many of his famous songs including “Don’t Be Cruel”, “Teddy Bear”, and “Fools Fall in Love.” As he performed, he interacted with the crowd by handing out scarfs to the audience. He would make sure to wipe a little sweat on the scarf before gently wrapping it around the lucky guest’s neck.
Jessica Serdynski, voluntary services specialist at the Milwaukee VA, is the lucky fan picked by the Elvis impersonator for a special song and dance. The Elvis impersonator performed for more than 50 Veterans and staff Oct. 9 inside the Recreation Hall. – Photo by Antony Kamps
Jessica Serdynski, voluntary services specialist at the Milwaukee VA, was one of the lucky scarf recipients. She also received a little more, as Elvis stole a kiss from her.
“That was very unexpected,” said Serdynski.
“Very wet and made my heart flutter,” she added sarcastically. “It was a real fun time for everyone, especially for the Veterans.”
Elvis continued to thrust his hips and dance around the hall, singing to the crowd. Elvis even coaxed one Veteran to stand up and dance with him during “Johnny B. Goode.” The older Veteran strummed his air guitar and twisted his hips to the beat of the music.
“That’s how you do an air guitar,” shouted Elvis. “This guy deserves a scarf, lord have mercy.”
He would allow audience members to sing portions of a song. Sandy Rice, program support assistant in the Mental Health department, got into the act, taking the mic and singing.
“Isn’t this so fun?” said Rice.
Elvis sang his final song of the event, but first spoke to the audience.
“Thank you, thank you very much,” said Elvis. “Thank you for giving me your time, I appreciate it. I dedicate this last song to all you Veterans.”
The final song was “American Trilogy,” one of the King’s best known songs. When he finished, he lowered his head and raised his hands in fitting Elvis style. The crowd cheered and applauded. He bowed and said thank you to everyone. He shook the hand of every audience member as they left, taking pictures upon request. Smiles on the faces of the Veterans were payment enough.
Then Elvis left the building.