Solicitations in the Theater

I recently took my children to a United Artists Theater at the Brea Mall, intending to pay for our tickets and to be entertained. Before screening of the movie I had paid to see, I was unwillingly submitted to a short film extolling the virtues of the Will Rogers Institute. After this appeal, theater ushers went down the aisles asking for contributions to this charitable organization.

I am a strong supporter of charities. I am also strongly resentful of a theater which takes my money for a ticket, takes $2 for a container of popcorn and then asks me to contribute to a cause they “support.” If the United Artists Theater wants to support this cause, why doesn’t it contribute 1 cent per ticket purchased--or about $1,000 monthly?

Young children in an audience will contribute willingly to any cause. These children and adults are being exploited in an environment which creates intense group pressure.

The Will Rogers Institute is probably an ethical, well-run organization which performs many worthwhile services. Don’t cheapen its good name by collecting funds in a manner which is unfair, unethical, and underhanded.

LYNDA LOE

Placentia