Disney persistence

Re “A Rocky Road, Step by Step” (Sept 14): Mike Boehm’s article begins with a reference to “publicity-shy Lillian Disney announcing through representatives” her gift of $50 million to build the Walt Disney Concert Hall. I was one of Mrs. Disney’s representatives, having been retained to serve as communications advisor to the Disney family to assist in announcing the gift and to represent them in matters relating to the project in the following years.

My problem with the article is that it concentrated on money and politics and did not tell the real and more compelling story of a family who truly wanted to do something exceptional. They were motivated by respect and love of their husband and father and their deep feelings for the city of Los Angeles, which has been such an important part of their lives.

In the years following the May 1987 announcement, the Disney family, led by Diane Disney Miller, showed extraordinary courage and resolve in the face of constant pressure from public and private sectors to end or significantly alter the project. But Diane, with whom I spoke frequently, never wavered in her belief and her obligation to fulfill the commitment made by the family to the Music Center and the city.

With Disney Hall about to open, it is sad that both Mrs. Disney and Diane’s sister Sharon are not here to see the dream transformed into an extraordinary building that will give the citizens of Los Angeles and visitors an enriching cultural experience for decades to come. But, fortunately, Diane is here, and when she walks through the door on opening night she should feel a great deal of pride and satisfaction in fulfilling the wishes of her mother and the family in giving Los Angeles a gift for all time.

Dick Lippin

Los Angeles

Dick Lippin is the chairman of the Lippin Group, a public relations and marketing firm.