He wishes 86 would be 86'd

Editor,

I'd like to know where the word "86'd" came from. It's used for being kicked out of an establishment such as a tavern, bar, inn or restaurant.

In my opinion, it's not treating a good customer right. Everybody has their legal rights as an American citizen. I've come into these establishments sober and wanted a drink or something to eat and sent out the door or "86'd" as the person tending bar or serving food says, "Get out—you're 86'd."

They seem to make their own phony rules and I do not like it.

I even got sent to jail twice for trespassing and there is no such law for "trespassing" inside such an establishment. I was released from jail because the charge against me couldn't stick in court.

What I'd like to do is get this law changed and get "86'd" quashed out of existence.

Roger W. Bordeaux

Pablo

Editor's note: The term "86'd" has been around for as long as customers have been obnoxious. A private establishment has the right to refuse you service for whatever reason — even if you're sober — and charge you with trespassing if you show up after you've been told to stay off the premises. We'd recommend finding another place to go.