Elvis Convention in Laughlin, Nevada

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Feb 15, 2002

Now the stage is bare, and I’m standing there, with emptiness all around. Those may well be famous words from one of Elvis’ big hits from the ‘60’s but the stage at the River Palms Hotel was anything but bare, as it supported some of the top Elvis personalities and tribute artists around the world for three fun-filled days and nights. It was January 4, 2002 and the fun was just beginning as the annual convention put on by Jamie Coyne’s Elvis Extravaganza Fan Club got under way.

We knew we’d came to the right place, the minute we arrived in the lobby of the hotel. It was alive with Elvis music and visions of Elvis were everywhere we turned. The hotel was a virtual sea of jumpsuits, ‘50’s style sports jackets and sideburns.

A combination Elvis Convention and Tribute Artist Finals contest, the headliners included the Jordaniares, Cynthia Pepper, (Elvis‘ co-star in Kissin Cousins), Donna Presley, (Elvis first cousin) and Dick Grob (Elvis Chief of Security).

In the afternoons, Elvi were featured on the Mezzanine, where they performed and mingled with the crowd. Here's Garyelvis Britt. Gary has a wonderful project going on to collect canned goods, teddy bears and donations to distribute in Elvis’ name each year on August 16. You can check his pages at Love Me Tender Day to find out more.

This stage was always alive with classic cars right outside the door and memorabilia dealers on three sides. Dan Sumption - Classic Memories, Joe Kereta - Memorabilia Collectors, Ian McQuillan - Jailhouse Rockers Fan Club of California, Sandra - Jean's Designs (Sandy Huszar), Stan Wohlman (Decanters & Collectibles), Dennis Roberts - Optique Originals (Elvis Eyewear), Ed Bonja - Elvis' Photographer, kingtracks.com - Elvis Karaoke Company, Evelyn Slayman - wrote a great book with Elvis stories and Mary Robinette - collectibles, were all there.

Dick Grob, Cynthia Pepper and Donna Presley took over the stage for reminiscing with the audience both Saturday and Sunday. We all remember Cynthia of course as W2349687 Corporal Midge Riley, a WAC stenographer in Kissin’ Cousins. Cynthia was is also known for her role in My Three Sons. Donna Presley was there with her wonderful stories of growing up with Elvis and living at Graceland. Dick Grob, Elvis’ Chief of Security was the perfect addition to the mix.

Here’s a look at just some of the great question and answers.