Regents discuss beer sales at new stadium
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The University of Minnesota Board of Regents today discussed a plan to sell alcohol in some venues on campus, but took no action.
U of M president Robert Bruininks is asking the Board of Regents to allow the school to sell beer and wine at its new TCF Bank football stadium.
But drinks would only be available to fans in premium seats that range in price from $1,800 to $3,000 a season, or in private suites that cost up to $45,000 a year.
Regent John Frobenius says he's concerned how the public will view the arrangement.
"We're going to a new stadium, and the message is high-spending supporters have access to alcohol, medium-spending supporters do not," said Frobenius. "And that is a little gnawing at me that makes me a just a little uncomfortable with that."
University officials say the purpose of the proposal is to keep alcohol from being sold in stadium sections where students -- many of whom are underage -- sit. They say it's also an amenity that some fans want.
The Regents will vote on the proposal next month. The Gophers currently play football at the Metrodome in downtown Minneapolis, and beer sales take place there during games.
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