Zinnie's must watch its step

ADAPT advocates eat on the sidewalk because they cannot get inside

Memphis ADAPT had dinner on the sidewalk in front of Zinnie's Old Place 1688 Madison to make the point that accessibility is good business.

ADAPT members had pizza and soft-drinks at folding tables with candles. ADAPT will not patronize inaccessible businesses.

Generally ADAPT is known for blocking the entrances and shutting down businesses that fail to provide necessary access under the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act [see ADAPT UN-Blocks Blockbuster]. In the instance of Zinnie's, the barrier is seemingly simple and inexpensive to remove, advocates sent the message that access is the smart choice.

"Watch your step Bill," said the advocates gathered around the front door referring to Bill Baker the owner of Old Zinnie's. ADAPT also has had great success in gaining compliance with ADA lawsuits. " Dinner tonight sent the message that access is a good thing," said Chris Colsey, a long-time ADAPT member. "But it is also a warning."

"Judging by the previous three cases ADAPT has brought against restaurants," said Tim Wheat who has built more than 30 wheelchair access ramps in Memphis, "Mr. Baker can expect to pay his attorneys about five times what it will cost him to ramp that single step and eventually he will pay damages and penalties that may triple his attorney's fees."

Accessibility is good business
The real cost is ignoring the business of people with disabilities

Since the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act, more people with disabilities are able to participate in community activities. Businesses can draw on more customers from the neighborhood or just around the corner.

The inaccessible front door at Old Zinnie's on Madison

-Tim Wheat