The Virginian-Pilot
                             THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT 
              Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: Sunday, May 21, 1995                   TAG: 9505200145
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON    PAGE: 15   EDITION: FINAL 
TYPE: Cover Story 
                                             LENGTH: Short :   42 lines

DEMOCRACY AND CITIZENSHIP CREATING NEW CONVERSATIONS

Virginia Beach occupies a unique place in the commonwealth because of its Oceanfront, which historically has been the summertime playground for millions of Virginians and out-of-town visitors.

But competition within the tourism industry has grown and is getting more intense. The city must compete with an increasing number of vacation destinations along the Eastern Seaboard. It is searching for ways to ensure that the people who love Virginia Beach keep coming back along with new guests.

What do you think about the issue? We'd like to hear your thoughts. Before you respond, here are some questions to consider:

How does tourism affect you as a city resident?

Does the city put too much emphasis on tourism?

What is the role of city government in tourism development?

What would make the resort more attractive to residents and visitors alike?

Please respond in one of several ways:

You can call 640-5555 and press xxxx and leave a voice mail message.

You can send Staff writer Tom Holden e-mail at this address: holden(AT)nfi.net.

You can fax us your thoughts at 490-7235, or you can write us a letter. Please send mail in care of Tom Holden, 4565 Virginia Beach Blvd., Virginia Beach, Va. 23462.

We'll share your thoughts and those of other readers in future editions of the Beacon.

KEYWORDS: PUBLIC JOURNALISM

by CNB