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Fircrest no longer 'dry', alcohol sales begin

Fircrest was the last 'dry' area in Washington, with Prohibition-era laws remaining in effect, until last November when voters legalized the sale of alcohol-by-the-glass. But it wasn't until Thursday a restaurant actually received a license and could sell wine and beer.

<p>Fircrest was the last 'dry' area in Washington, with Prohibition-era laws remaining in effect, until last November when voters legalized the sale of alcohol-by-the-glass.</p>

FIRCREST, Wash. -- Scott Clement thought he was breaking the law. After all, for 90 years, city code in Fircrest dictated that serving alcohol by the glass was illegal. At least, that was the case until Thursday.

"We were almost afraid to do anything," said Clement, owner of Spring Lake Cafe. "You're so used to not being able to do something."

Voters reversed the Prohibition-era law banning alcohol sales in November, but only recently did Clement get his alcohol license from the state. After serving a few Mimosas on Mother's Day, Thursday was the first real opportunity to put the license to use.

"Some relief, some disbelief," commented Clement. "Some nervousness."

City leaders hope the ability to sell alcohol by the glass will encourage more restaurants and bars into Fircrest. The small city of 6,000 is nestled between Tacoma and University Place.