Union Square not for sale, we need playgrounds not more wheeling and dealing!

avilion Lovers Unite!

In case you didn't already know, the only thing currently standing in the way of the city turning our beloved Pavilion into a swanky restaurant is a court decision made by Judge Jane Solomon in April 2008. This Monday, December 8th, she will hear the city argue for the dismissal of the case. We CANNOT let this happen. (more legalese below)

WHAT:
Union Sq. Park Court Date

WHEN:
Monday December 8, 2008 - 3:00pm

WHERE
New York State Supreme Court
60 Centre Street, Room 432 (which is part 55)
Justice Jane S. Solomon

WHY:
Because we need the judge to see that the people are watching, and that we care about the fate of the Pavilion. We know through experience that visible public displays of concern do affect the outcomes of court decisions. We want to PACK the courtroom and let Judge Jane know that we are paying attention, we like what she's doing so far, and want her to KEEP HER INJUNCTION in place.

BACKGROUND:
Union Square Park Pavilion Litigation. In April 2008, the Union Square Community Coalition filed a lawsuit (USCC v. NYC Parks, Index No. 08/105578) challenging the Parks Department and Union Square Partnership's plans to install a restaurant in the historic pavilion.

The court issued a preliminary injunction, which prevents the operation of a restaurant, or the installation of fixtures for a restaurant, pending further order of the Court. In so doing, the court found that USCC is likely to prevail on its central claim – that without state legislative approval, the restaurant would be an unlawful alienation of parkland – once that claim is ripe. The City has moved to dismiss the case, claiming it is both unripe (because, allegedly, several steps remain in the process before a restaurant concession could be offered) and non-meritorious.

More info at:
http://www.unionsquarenotforsale.org