Elvis impersonators pay tribute to the King at the Carolina Civic Center

By Lauren Allen
Around The Town Assistant Editor

The Carolina Civic Center, located in downtown Lumberton, hosted its annual Elvis impersonator contest on Feb. 25.

Mark Gagnon, a resident of Fayetteville, won Saturday's competition and took home $200, a trophy and several newfound fans.

Several community members turned out to support their local Elvis impersonators as well as pay tribute to the King of Rock and Roll. 

The first group to strut their Elvis stuff was the 12 and under age group, followed by the 18 and over group. 

Photo by Lauren Allen Elvis impersonator’s invaded the Carolina Civic Center in Lumberton on Feb. 25 and performed several classic Elvis hits.

Keith Henderson, a well-known Elvis impersonator, made a guest appearance, performing two 30-minute concerts as well as taking part in the judging of the contest.

Henderson has been singing Elvis songs all his life and has taken his love for Elvis and turned it into a profession. 

For more than 20 years, Henderson has been bringing back the memories of Elvis and his musicial hits for audiences through his show "Illusions of the King."

He has gained much recognition because of his shows. 

In 2002, Henderson won the grand prize in the $50,000 Tribute to the King contest in Biloxi, Miss. 

He also won the 1998, 1999 and 2000 "Images of Elvis" competition in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Although Henderson's performance was definitely a highlight of the day in Lumberton, it all came down to Gagnon in the end.