Yesterday Adi and I went to 111 Center Street for the housing court hearing. Ben was there when we got there. We went up to the 8th Floor and checked in with the court clerk. Ron Ransom, the LL's attorney was there. We were the first case called. The Judge was very reasonable and calm and tried to help us come to an agreement. Ransom said he could offer a 20% abatement. Bernardo laughed. The Judge asked if we would accept a 50% abatement. I said I would if all the violations in the building were repaired. Bernardo said he would not accept a 50% abatement. Since we could not come to an agreement, we set a date for trial. May 29th is the date we agreed upon.

In the elevator on the way down, Ransom offered to give a 100% abatement if we would agree to vacate. Bernardo said that he would agree to that. I said I would not agree to vacate.