Cherry blossoms to peak in weeks
WASHINGTON » Washington’s famous cherry tree blossoms are expected to be at their best between March 26 and March 30, according to National Park Service cherry tree expert James Perry.
This year marks the 101st anniversary of the gift of trees from Japan.
The average peak bloom date is April 4, but last year’s peak came March 20 because of warm weather. Perry said the trees were blooming a little bit earlier than they would 50 or 75 years ago.
Perry said the "peak bloom date," defined as 70 percent of the blossoms open on a cherry tree, is expected to be at the end of March. That puts the trees in bloom just before Easter. At this point, cold weather could delay the blooms’ opening.
Once the trees flower, weather will also determine how long the fragile blossoms last, Perry said.
"It really depends on the wind and the rain," Perry said, adding that the blossoms have lasted for as short as five days and as long as 18 days.
The cherry blossoms draw about 1 million visitors to the nation’s capital each spring. This year’s National Cherry Blossom Festival, which includes events and performances, will run from March 20 to April 14.
Elvis exhibit touts his ties to Vegas
MEMPHIS, Tenn. » A new exhibit at Graceland highlights Elvis Presley’s strong connection to Las Vegas, where he performed and vacationed.
The exhibit called "Elvis: Live from Las Vegas" opened Tuesday at the Graceland tourist attraction, which sits across from Presley’s mansion in Memphis.
The exhibit chronicles Elvis’ experiences in Las Vegas, where he often performed.
About 120 pieces of Vegas-related memorabilia are featured in the exhibit, including 30 flashy jumpsuits and other pieces of clothing worn by the singer during his energetic stage performances.
Among the more unusual artifacts are large bus-bench signs advertising Elvis shows, a tablecloth used in 1969 by promoter Colonel Tom Parker as a contract for future shows at the International Hotel, and a belt festooned with diamonds, rubies and sapphires that was given to Elvis for breaking attendance records during 57 sold-out shows at the International.
A large stuffed hound dog, hotel receipts and food menus also are included. Video screens placed throughout the exhibit show Elvis performing on stage.
