Dave Mathews, NO CAMERAS!

Paul and I went out on a date for the first time in forever!  He purchased tickets to Dave Mathews (one of his all time faves), and we were looking forward to it.  We've seen them two times before, and each time we've gotten a little closer to the stage.  The first time was fun, but we were sitting on the lawn, smelling something other than cigarettes, dealing with people who have no common courtesy, including one girl  who yelled "ants marching!!!" for the entire concert.  The second time we had actual seats, which was nice, but you could only see if you were standing.  This time Paul told me we would be close to the stage, much better seats than last time, but I had no idea what that really meant.  Well we get up to the gate entrance, and they're checking for "illegal" items.  Boy were they thorough!  Nobody told me I had to prepare as if I were going on an air plane!  They made me lift my shirt (just above the belt) and hold it tight to show that nothing was hidden underneath, then turn around, and show that my pockets were empty.  Then they checked my purse.  Of course I had brought my camera.  When the lady saw it, she said "No cameras, you're going to have to check it."  What?  That's stupid I thought!  She explained that the band didn't want photos taken.  Ummm, what about cell phones!  Confiscating my camera, along with others, was not going to eliminate picture taking!  Well, we debated if I should check the camera, or try to sneak it in by sticking it in Paul's over sized pockets on the side of his shorts.  I decided to check it, and as we were entering, sure enough, she asked to see my ticket to make sure I had checked my camera in.  As we headed to our seats, the ushers began telling us there was no such thing as row B/C.  They continued to direct us to the next usher down, hoping the next guy would know where the heck we were sitting!  Finally, we're all the way at the front of the pavilion, and the usher says "oh yes, you're right here."  and points to two folding chairs that had been set up in front of the front row!  It was great!  Not a single person in front, and we enjoyed the concert, even though we have no pics to remember it by!  Everyone was of course trying to take pics with their phone, or the camera they had some how managed to sneak in, but camera nazi (the usher) was on it!  My ears were ringing for a good 24 hours, but it was a good time.  Now I'm so spoiled by that experience, I just don't think I can enjoy a concert again unless I'm in the best seat in the house!