Online Petition Calls for Boycott of St. James's Gate

As a case involving an alleged assault at St. James's Gate Publick House winds it way through the courts, an online petition has been started to demand a formal apology and the resignation of the bartender.

Bartender James Meade was accused of assault by a patron, Ethan Kresofsky, after a Jan. 8 incident in which Meade allegedly used a homophobic slur. Meade also alleging assault, a month later. 

The petition, posted on Change.org, calls Meade's alleged actions that January night "wholly unacceptable" and continues, "Gay slurs should not be tolerated under any circumstances." The petition asks that the pub owners make a formal apology to the community and a "declaration that they share our inclusive spirit in terms of welcoming and cherishing patrons of all creeds, colors, and faiths."

It goes on to demand Meade's resignation, and calls for a boycott of the pub until the demands are met. It is unclear who started the petition, which has so far gathered around 40 signatures.

Meade's counter-complaint, filed in February, accuses Kresofsky of allegedly spitting in Meade's face and biting his index finger. A Bloomfield judge ruled that both complaints should move forward. The next court date is scheduled for April 25.

Meade's attorney Robert D. Kuttner recently told Patch there had been "some discussion" between him and Kresofsky's attorney, James Sayegh of Feeley, Sayegh & LaRocca, LLC. "It is moving slowly," Kuttner said.

Kresofsky's mother, Eva, said while she personally supports Meade's resignation, her family has not made it part of their proposed settlement.

"I am still hopeful that it will be settled as the facts [of the case] do not seem to be in dispute," said Kresofsky.  "All we are asking for is an apology, payment of our unreimbursed medical bills (about $400) and that [Meade] doesn’t initiate any contact with Ethan." 

Ethan Kresofsky was unavailable for comment, as were members of the Meade family. Sayegh did not return phone calls seeking comment.