Senator Rev. Diaz Joins Protest Of Local Restaurant To Demand Respect For The Community

In response to a community outcry, New York State Senator Reverend Ruben Diaz (D-Bronx) will join with Mount Zion CME Church member Mr. Wayne Jones, ministers and community leaders at a press conference to protest the Great Wall Restaurant located at 1533 Watson Avenue in The Bronx on Thursday, May 3, 2007 at 12:00 noon.

"I cannot understand how a local restaurant can refuse pennies – which are US legal currency – as payment for food," said Senator Rev. Diaz. "It is my intention that this protest will result in a change at the Great Wall Restaurant and that people there and throughout the United States will accept legal currency for payment – even if the payment is pennies. People in our community and in all communities, including less fortunate people, deserve to be treated with respect – especially by those who keep them in business."

According to Mr. Wayne Jones, well-respected member of the Mount Zion CME Church and one who has personally had bad experiences and has been humiliated at this restaurant will be present at the press conference. He plans to inform his neighbors and church members in the community to boycott this location if this matter is not resolved.

For further comments, please contact Senator Rev. Diaz at 718/991-3161.