New Haven Register
July 17, 1975
Fans Wild Over Elvis In Show At Coliseum
By Dick Conrad

"Elvis: I Love You," said the sign hanging from the railing in back of the stage at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum Wednesday night.

The signature of Debbie Persano, and the appropriate XOX, were at the bottom of the love note, but it became obvious later than many of the 10,000 plus in attendance would have been glad to add their names.

Gurgling into the microphone, swaying like the Elvis of old and singing at least as well, Presley more than satisfied the faithful who paid $10, $7.50 and $5 to get in

The crowd was a mixture of teens and persons in the 20 to 35 age range. Everyone brought a camera.

Presley came on only after the audience endured a male singing group and a comedian and enjoyed "Sweet Inspiration," a female group.

The master of ceremonies patiently asked everyone to take his or her seat, and then, to the strains of the famous opening of the movie "Space Odyssey," Elvis charged onto the stage

So much for staying in the seats. The flash-bulbs popped and thousands screamed. About a hundred charged the stage as Elvis went into "See See Rider."

Some of those pressed against the stage got their hands shaken by the star, and a few were lucky enough to get a kiss. Presley ripped off a white bandana from his neck and handed it to a teen-age girl who looked like she wasn't sure whether it was really happening

For many of the others who risked their ribs, there was a good supply of spare articles of clothing, which Elvis distributed after a cursery wrap around the neck

He accepted several bouquets of roses, but rejected a bottle of champagne.

"Amen" came next, and then some assorted gurgling that sent shock waves through the crowd.

"Play Rock and roll" and "I love you, Elvis" came from everywhere in the house. But next was the popular "If You Love Me, Let Me Know" before a lot of the old favorites

Presley finally asked the throngs to sit down, just before a few persons almost managed to get on the stage.

The show was a success. Police reported little trouble despite the frenzy inside.