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Striking Detroit Musicians Reject Symphony Offer

DETROIT (AP) - Striking Detroit Symphony Orchestra musicians have rejected the latest contract proposal from orchestra management.

Musicians spokesman Haden McKay said Wednesday they rejected the offer but says the disagreement has narrowed. McKay says there could be an agreement if management could find a way to direct $2 million in donor-restricted funds to the musicians. He says the money is intended for community outreach programs.

Management submitted the proposal last Friday. It included a stipulation the musicians must respond by this Friday.
Management spokeswoman Elizabeth Weigandt says a statement was expected later Wednesday.

Bargainers met in late January, but those talks collapsed as they accused each other of not adhering to a three-year, $36 million proposal by then-Gov. Jennifer Granholm and U.S. Sen. Carl Levin.

 The walkout began Oct. 4.

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.

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