86'd From the Caffe Mediterraneum

EMBEDDED SOUTH SIDE

By Ted Friedman/Berkeley ReporterAug, 30, 2013

Readers will wonder why an 86 (ejection) from Berkeley's notorious den of 60s radicalism matters.

Most Berkeleyans have moved to the hills and want little do do with Telegraph Avenue, which has been ceded to the seedy and students.

This is the story of two Med ejectees, for whom an 86 matters.

Both ejectees have mood disorders, not unlike the hang-ups of your typical Medhead, but they taxed the forbearance of owner Craig Becker and are toast.

Becker has an enormous store of patience, but he has his limits.

Founding owners Johnny and Leno and manager Elio were quick-on-the-draw with an 86. One Medhead told me he was 86'd by Leno in the Seventies when someone set his hair afire.

"What'd I do? he asked.
 
"You must have done something to get your hair burned," said Leno.

Becker's rejects took different paths to 86. One refused medical intervention and became disruptive.

The other self-destructed, after being asked to unplug his guitar amp.

Both had headquartered at the Med, logging twelve-hour days and usurping an entire table.

I become week-kneed at the thought of being 86'd from the Med, or, God forgive, from Moe's.

I, too, headquarter at the Med. Stop in and shoot the breeze with me. Just ask a barista where I am                                                          -30-
Follow Ted Friedman at Berkeley Reporter (on-line) and in Berkeley Times. For his past Speak Outs: "Ted Friedman Speak Out."