Supporters mount final push to save famed New York club CBGB's

NEW YORK (AP) -- Supporters of the famed rock club CBGB's are planning a last-ditch series of events to save the birthplace of punk.

There will be a show almost every night at the space during August, the last month of CBGB's lease, and a big event on the 31st at Washington Square Park, said singer/songwriter/"The Sopranos" star Little Steven Van Zandt, who has been involved in the preservation efforts for the last several weeks.

The club is in conflict with its landlord, the Bowery Residents Committee, over back rent and an increase to the monthly rental cost, which is about $19,000.

The committee provides shelter for homeless people in the building that houses the club. Van Zandt said a proposal was submitted to the landlord last week, offering to pay more rent and host events to raise money for the cause. He said no response to the proposal has been received.

A telephone call to the committee seeking comment was not immediately returned Monday. CBGB's, with its familiar white awning, holds a special place in the city's music history. It was there that the Ramones, the Talking Heads and Blondie created the punk scene for small crowds that paid a $1 cover charge.

That's So New York