TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - The Tampa Bay Lightning are hoping to tap into larger crowds by offering unlimited free beer to season-ticket holders.

But the sudsy sale may not reach its goal if safe-driving advocates have their way.

Police and several area chapters of Mothers Against Drunk Driving say the hockey team's offer is irresponsible.

"Why attach alcohol to a season-ticket plan? It's almost encouraging people to drink more than they should because it is free," said Sgt. Chris Velar, who runs the Police Department's drunken driving squad.

During the first Eastern Conference playoff game between the Lightning and the Philadelphia Flyers Saturday, the St. Pete Times Forum's main scoreboard advertised the offer. Those who paid $100 US toward 2004-05 season tickets were eligible for unlimited free beer during the game.

About 25 of the 21,000 people at the game signed up for season tickets, said team spokesman Bill Wickett.

People who are already intoxicated aren't served beer and free taxi rides are provided to patrons who believe they have had too much to drink, Wickett said.

Quelle: http://www.tsn.ca/

Magro