Ticketmaster Complaint

Wanna hear another gripe about Ticketmaster? I really wanted to go to the Santana tribute concert at the Universal Amphitheatre on Feb. 25, but when I called to order tickets (through the only outlet available by phone), I was shocked at its breakdown of “fees.” Witness: Two tickets at $37.50 equal $75. No problem. Handling fee: $1.55. All right, postage, no problem. “Convenience” fee: $11. This is convenient? “Facility” charge: $6. Now this is ridiculous. Total after fees: $93.55. A difference of $18.55?

At a seating capacity of 6,190, Ticketmaster could collect (from facility and convenience charges) $52,615 on a sellout. My question: How many instances will it take to prove that we have a greed-driven monopoly here?

Pearl Jam was right.

JOHN VALENZUELA

Los Angeles