Predators trying to earn more $$$

"In an effort to generate precious additional dollars, the Nashville Predators want to turn two club-level sections at Sommet Center into an exclusive area for "high net worth individuals" and others who could afford the $40,000-a-year minimum cost.
Several observers called the proposal a creative way to increase revenue for the hockey club, though it's not likely to save taxpayers much money.
But the Metro Sports Authority and other city officials want answers to several financial and legal questions. The idea of setting aside space for rich fans has raised questions as well.
"There's a general trend in pro sports to price people out of the market," sports authority Vice Chairman Steve North said when the Predators pitched the idea last month.
"There's a philosophical question we need to consider, not just, 'Will we make more money?' We have an obligation to the public."
Team officials said they would spend about $500,000 to renovate Sections 201 and 224, which now seat about 250 people at the end of the city-owned arena opposite the stage. The adjacent sections typically don't sell well, averaging 69 tickets for the 41 games in 2008-09, said Ed Lang, president of business operations.
In their place, the Predators would install about 130 seats in "a large suite with all the amenities one would expect in a private club," according to a document the organization prepared for the sports authority.
The perks would include food, beer and wine; flat-screen, high-definition TVs; "captains chair style seating"; a concierge; and valet parking. Guests would pay $20,000 per seat per year to attend at least 100 events, including games, concerts and other shows. They would be required to buy at least two seats in the area, known as "The Reserve at Sommet Center."
Lang said the arena's existing suites serve a similar purpose but are better suited to large organizations that can afford them and consistently fill the 16 seats. The Reserve would target small and mid-sized companies as well as affluent people."
-Tennessean