Gloucester Mayor Apologizes for Obscene Gesture

Gloucester Mayor Greg Verga has faced backlash after being recorded making an obscene gesture towards striking teachers and their supporters as he left a tense negotiation meeting. The incident, captured on video by The Gillnetter, occurred while protesters chanted 'shame on you!' at Verga, who later explained that his gesture was aimed at a specific individual, a former public safety official, rather than the crowd or teachers. Verga expressed regret for his actions, stating that he reacted out of frustration and concern for his wife's safety as protesters had gathered outside their home. The ongoing teacher strikes in Gloucester, Beverly, and Marblehead involve demands for better pay and working conditions, with negotiations currently stalled. The Union of Gloucester Educators condemned the mayor's behavior as inappropriate for an elected official, while parents have expressed disappointment over the lack of leadership amid the escalating tensions. As negotiations remain at an impasse, the situation reflects a growing divide within the community.