Strike Coverage:Union 'Respectfully Declines' Mayor's Offers

The New York Times reports, despite Mayor Michael Bloomberg's offers of assistance, Local One has declined and provided no comment.  

"Bloomberg continued to reach out privately to the producers and stagehands, urging them to negotiate and offering the use of Gracie Mansion and a mediator," states the article.

A spokesperson for The League of American Theatres and Producers states they would gladly accept any support.

Meanwhile – as the clock chimes midnight on Tuesday November 13 – Day 4 of the Broadway stagehands' strike has begun.  Twenty-seven of New York City's 35 Broadway houses remain closed while Local One union members – accompanied by supportive cast members and pit-musicians – picket outside on the cold streets of Midtown.

Currently, Bloomberg and the city have offered to provide the Union and The League an opportunity to get together in a facilitated environment. In 2003, the musicians' strike was settled after a day-long negotiation in Gracie Mansion with a neutral mediator.

During a press conference held Sunday afternoon, Local One President James J. Claffey addressed the issue of the mayor's assistance: "I have spoken to the Mayor several times.  He could not be more of a gentlemen. He's been offering his services but I've respectfully declined.  While we absolutely value the mayor and his intentions we believe that we should make a deal amongst the people.  The best thing we could ask the Mayor is to tell these people that we have a job to do and in 121 years this Local has never struck Broadway, so there must be a problem."

Photo of Mayor Bloomberg by Ben Strothmann (2005)