Already facing a financial crisis, Lakeland's historic Polk Theatre incurred major damage from flooding Thursday night, adding urgency to a fundraising campaign just launched by the nonprofit organization that operates the 80-year-old movie palace. Water infiltrated dressing rooms, storage areas and the auditorium, forcing removal of carpets, drywall and ceilings, including a treasured piece of wall signed by Elvis Presley after a performance in 1956. In total he played three shows on August 6 1956 in the Polk Theatre.

Repair crews from Waller Emergency Services cut out the section of wall Friday and took it away for protection and drying. Waller employees said Presley's signature was still visible.