CBGB’s landlord defies protesters

As hundreds of people joined guitarist Steven Van Zandt in a raucous rally of support for venerable New York City punk club CBGB’s, the club’s landlord announced Wednesday that a decision had been made: Its lease would expire at midnight and would not be renewed.

The Bowery Residents’ Committee, landlord of the building where the club opened its doors 32 years ago and gave the stage to the Ramones and Blondie, “believes it is in the best interest of our clients -- the homeless and neediest New Yorkers -- to sever this relationship,” executive director Muzzy Rosenblatt said.

An increasingly frustrated Van Zandt, who entered the negotiations about six weeks ago, blasted Rosenblatt for the inability to reach a new agreement.

The club’s owner, Hilly Kristal, also wasn’t backing down, and he had acts scheduled there throughout September. “We intend to stay,” he declared. “This is not a eulogy. There’s no reason why we shouldn’t come to an understanding.”