Bags like this one being sold on ebay, are now being marketed as perfect for sporting events.This bag is 12 inches high, which meets the maximum size requirements of the American Bank Centers new security policies.
No more purses bigger than a clutch, no more briefcases, backpacks, diaper bags, fanny packs or computer bags — unless you can see through them — will be allowed in the American Bank Center. The heightened security comes in the wake of the Paris terrorist attacks, which targeted an entertainment venue and resulted in more than 100 deaths.
Policy criticisms began immediately after the announcement was made on the bank center's Facebook page. Patrons questioned not allowing diaper bags in when the event center hosts Sesame Street, Disney on Ice and any of the several circuses and rodeos that come each year.
Convention goers brought up the need to have computers and bags for all the paper accumulated at workshops and seminars.
“Are we expected to carry three or four days worth of paperwork in gallon bags and tuck our laptops under our arms?” asked Dale White, pastor at First United Methodist Church of Alice online. “What exactly are the limits of this new policy? I don't think this was either thought all the way through or well-communicated.”
ABC officials answered a different question online about whether someone with medical needs would have to carry catheter and other supplies in clear plastic bags.
“On our website and on our recent interviews with Kiii and KRIS news, we wanted to make clear that anyone attending an event with a medical need for a bag such as that, you will just need to check in with guest services where your bag will be checked by security.” read a Facebook reply. “If you have further questions, please feel free to give us a call, 361-826-4700."
The new policy, as seen below, has been posted on the American Bank Center’s website and its Facebook page.
The following items are not permitted within the American Bank Center:
Bag Policy
Prohibited bags include, but are not limited to, the following:
* Purses, bags or containers larger than a small clutch bag
* Camera bags
* Briefcases
* Backpacks
* Fanny packs
* Cinch bags
* Computer bags
* Coolers (including thermos)
* Luggage of any kind
Patrons may bring in the following bags:
* American Bank Center approved clear plastic, vinyl or PVC that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12". Bags may be hand carried or have a shoulder strap.
* One gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc)
Additional prohibited items include, but not limited to:
* Hoverboards
* Bottles, cans coolers or similar containers
* Food, drinks or illegal substances
* Any weapon, including chains and studded bracelets
* Video equipment, professional camera, tripods or recording devices
* Laser pointers, aerosol cans, noise-makers, fireworks
* Backpacks, unwrapped gifts, large bags, boxes, umbrellas
* Helium balloons
* Smoking, including e-cigarettes or vapors
* Selfie sticks
* Pets or non-service animals
* Any other items determined to be unacceptable or dangerous by management
Entry Inspections
All Guests entering the arena during an event are subject to a search of their person and their property. This includes a visual inspection and a bag inspection conducted by American Bank Center security personnel. The purpose of the inspection is to detect prohibited items such as weapons, audio/video equipment, professional photography equipment, glass bottles, metal cans, food and beverage, etc. All large bags, i.e. backpacks, suitcases, beach bags, etc. will be prohibited from entry into the arena.
