Joel Weinshanker, managing partner for Elvis Presley Enterprises, says Graceland is the second most visited home in America, with the White House being first.
This week, Weinshanker joins WKNO-TV's Behind the Headlines with host Eric Barnes and Daily Memphian reporter Bill Dries. Weinshanker talks about Graceland’s attempt to make Memphis THE destination for tourists to Tennessee.
One effort is a new exhibition site, opening this weekend (May 25). Weinshanker explains that Graceland is working with Shelby County Schools to provide free admission and transportation for students to various educational exhibitions. Weinshanker discusses other future plans for the new exhibition site.
Weinshanker also talks about an agreement between Strickland and Graceland, which would allow further development of Graceland. The expansion would include a hanger for jets, additions to Graceland’s hotel, an RV park relocation and more. The deal is at a standstill, with a delayed City Council vote. Weinshanker discusses the chances of the plan being allowed to move forward.
Additionally, Weinshanker says there is a possibility of a vocational high school for juniors and seniors, organized completely by Graceland. The students learn the skills needed to join the Graceland workforce. Weinshanker talks about what the program would look like once implemented.
