Bars and taverns are an accepted part of Western culture, and have a rich history in this country as meeting places for everything from pool to politics.
Yet any place where alcohol is served holds the potential for trouble — conflicts can quickly explode into fights, and patrons who have had too much to drink often climb behind the wheel of a car. Both can have tragic results. Less serious but still of concern is the negative effect overserved bar customers can have on neighboring businesses.
So it’s particularly encouraging to see what’s going on in Arlington, where bar owners, city officials, police and the state Liquor Control Board are working together to prevent problems from spinning out of control.
Herald reporter Katherine Schiffner reported Thursday that owners and employees of taverns in downtown Arlington have taken to calling each other with warnings about drunks who might be heading their way. Many heavy drinkers are well practiced at the art of appearing sober just long enough to successfully order a drink. Knowing that a drunk is coming makes preventing that easier for tavern employees.
Bar owners accept a heavy responsibility when they go into business. They must make sure they’re not overserving customers, and that they are able to keep minor problems from escalating into big ones, either by providing security or by making sure employees know when to call the police. Most bars meet this responsibility. Those that don’t shouldn’t be allowed to stay in business.
Snohomish Police Chief Rob Sofie, whose town suffered through last year’s tragic death of an off-duty firefighter in a fight outside the U&I Tavern, says his department meets with anyone applying for a liquor license to spell out expectations. He and his officers check back regularly to check compliance, and to offer their help.
Because of the U&I case, Sofie was asked to help the Liquor Control Board tie up loose ends in state law that allowed bars that break the rules to stay open pending appeals. A bill to fix that passed the Legislature unanimously last month.
Without question, irresponsible bar owners shouldn’t be allowed to stay in business. But those who work to run their establishments the right way, without causing harm to anyone, should be applauded.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
