Charlie LoPresto, shares his take on the concert
I'm not sure if Mr. LoPresto was preparing to sing The Star Spangled Banner or yell "food fight" in this photo.
From: Charlie LoPresto
Feb 5, 2013
A few tidbits to flesh out the story: first, it was yours truly who sold Juan's idea to the administration. At the time, I was Director of Student Activities and desperately wanted to bring a major national group to the Hall, especially given our past history of doing so. In order to seal the deal, we had to promise that tickets would only be sold in-house. However, Diaz began advertising the event on the radio and over sold the concert. We had minimum security (I think it was one guard with a half-dead dog. There were kids climbing up the side of the gym and coming in through the upper windows!. . .needless to say Bro. John Moore was VERY unhappy, not mention that Badfinger was toking up in the English offices!)
And the rumor that the group's manager was incensed when he learned the group was playing a high school is absolutely true. He ranted and raved, threatening not to allow the group to go on. Only after what seemed like an eternity of me trying to calm him down did he finally agree to let the group play.
I remember the group members themselves . . . really very nice guys with great senses of humor. It truly is tragic to learn that two of them committed suicide, given their incredible talent.
At the end of the evening, the group asked if I was coming back to their hotel to party. Truth be told, I was totally exhausted after the endless mini-dramas that unfolded that night. But all in all, it was really worthwhile. Thanks for archiving the memory. . .much appreciated!