When the going gets tough, sometimes the tough grab a beer. It's true - just ask some college students. And now even the university seems to be agreeing.

MSU might be following this grand tradition itself in its most recent efforts to generate revenue during bad budget times.

The MSU Board of Trustees is proposing a revision to the school's beverage policy, hoping to make the sale and possession of alcoholic drinks not entirely prohibited from arenas and buildings for social functions not athletic contests.

This is a creative way for the university to make a load of money, as long as the proposal doesn't extend beyond private functions. The only people who will benefit from the changes should be those who will not let the alcohol consumption get out of hand.

The MSU alcohol ordinance prohibits the use or possession of alcohol in "buildings or arenas where athletic events, lectures and concerts are held."

But many of the university's facilities often are rented out by private businesses and civic groups who have started to request that beer and wine be served at their receptions.

The proposed revision will allow the sale of alcohol at functions held by groups such as these, as long as they receive permission from the board.

The proposal's fate will be decided by a board vote today. But if the results are favorable ,and the university's alcohol policy is revised, don't expect to be cracking beers at the next home football game - the alcohol ordinance for students and sporting events will not be changed.

While a revision of the current alcohol policy is a step in the right direction for university fund-raising, it is smart for the school not to change the policies involving student athletics. Mixing alcohol with sporting events always is a dangerous cocktail -