Municipal liquor became a reality in Minnesota with the ratification of the 21st amendment on December 5, 1933. Under its terms, states were allowed to establish their own laws for the control of alcohol.

Rogers has been controlling the dispensation of alcoholic beverages in our community since the mid 70s.

Al stopped by with a friend one Wednesday afternoon. He was looking for Tim.

Al had made many trips to our store in the past months; he was "on our radar." He stopped in the morning mostly, one of our earliest customers most days. He was always in a hurry. He had to get to work, but he needed his bottle first.

We saw Al every day, sometimes in the evening too. I assumed he was also shopping at other stores; it's the nature of the illness.

Al had always been very well spoken, his demeanor never betraying any tell tale signals that might alert us to the fact that he should not be served.

That is what control is all about, not serving underage customers or obviously intoxicated persons. It's a responsibility we take very seriously! So seriously that our jobs depend on it! It is our job, in consort with law enforcement, and to the best of our ability to assure that  underage students do not have access to alcohol!

Al stopped by at night this time, which was unusual. Tim noticed him as he made his way through the store, approached him; asked him how he was doing. Tim immediately ascertained that Al had been drinking and pulled him to the side, informing that he would not be served this time. "I'm not driving," Al replied. Tim stated that this did not matter, that Minnesota State Law prohibited the sale, and that he should come back the next day. Al left with his ride without further incident.

Al stopped by with a friend on Wednesday afternoon. He was looking for Tim. Al was in the making amends stage of his A.A. steps. He stopped by, with his A.A. sponsor, to thank Tim for his refusal of service, the respect he showed during the process and to inform him of his ultimate decision to return to A.A. after straying from the program after 10 years of sobriety. Tim's refusal of service had a positive, unforeseen impact on Al's life!

Our most important job at Rogers Wines and Spirits and the Muni is controlling the dispensation of alcoholic beverages in our community. In addition to this the Rogers liquor department has generated almost 3 million dollars in contributions to the Rogers general fund budget since 2002!

Patronize your local businesses. The economic life of our community depends on it! Be a good host, know when your guests have "had enough".

Gary Buysse

Rogers Liquor 

2014 MMBA Annual Conference

May 17 - 20

Beverage Alcohol Training

In an effort to help members Promote the Community Value of their Municipal Liquor Operation, MMBA, in partnership with Miller Lite, is coordinating the First Annual Municipal "Help Our Local Animals" Supplies Drive benefiting local animal shelters.

The event will run throughout April. 

 Members will be raising both supplies and funds and will donate everything to the local animal shelter of their choice.