THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, July 5, 1996 TAG: 9607040018
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A8 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 33 lines
My wife and I attended the Eagles concert at the new Virginia Beach Amphitheater. It was the best concert that I've ever seen, but I was equally impressed with the friendliness and helpfulness of the security staff, ushers and others who work there.
I have been in a wheelchair for almost 22 years. I have seen vast improvements in attitudes toward and accommodations made for the disabled by the nondisabled community. I followed the media coverage of the issues raised by citizens over accessibility to and within the amphitheater.
I don't know much about legal requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act as it relates to buildings and structures. I don't expect to receive special consideration beyond what everyone else is entitled to receive.
I don't want free parking privileges; I have already been given the use of one of the reserved parking places in the handicapped parking lot.
I don't want free service charges when I purchase my tickets.
All I want and expect is to be able to enjoy the concert like everyone else. That includes being able to see the stage, which I had no problem doing.
During the intermission, I was approached by one of the managers who asked me if the seating arrangements were satisfactory and if I had any recommendations for improvements. I don't.
The concern and consideration expressed throughout the evening by the manager and his co-workers was genuine. I hope the controversy regarding accessibility produces a solution that is fair and reasonable for all parties.
RONNIE KIRKLAND
Virginia Beach, June 20, 1996 by CNB