AZTECA FOODS INC.

U.S. Reps. Luis Gutierrez, D-Chicago, and Janice Schakowsky, D-Evanston, asked the Chicago-based maker of Mexican foods to accept federal mediation to end the standoff with Local 1159 of the United Electrical, Radio and Machine Workers of America, the Chicago Tribune reported. The union represents 63 Azteca production workers who have been on strike since Sept. 30, protesting their wages, benefits and working conditions. Azteca founder and CEO Arthur Velasquez did not return a call for comment, but has previously said the union's demands are extravagant and the company is seeking a fair contract.