A Rodeo in Plainfield?

A nightclub operator who promised to bring "a brand-new idea and concept to the city" asked the City Council Monday to vote next week on his application to hold a rodeo here, but the timing fell short of a new rule requiring submission 45 days in advance.

Jeffrey Maree spoke first of his recent festivals organized by Voluntad Productions, saying they were meant to provide a cultural experience, not just to make money. (Voluntad produced a festival in August for El Salvadoran heritage and another is scheduled for Sept. 13, 14 and 15 to celebrate Central American independence. With two other festivals backed by nightclub owner Edison Garcia, critics say the crowded schedule appears to be of a commercial nature.)

Regarding his new concept, Maree said the rodeo had its origins in Spain, then spread to Mexico and became part of American culture. But Council President Bridget Rivers asked Corporation Counsel David Minchello to review the application process. Minchello said applications need various reviews and he recommended letting it come to the council only after all "due diligence" by city agencies.

Maree spoke briefly with Rivers after the meeting, but left before Plaintalker could get more details on his plans, such as the proposed site.

The rodeo concept is well-known in the American West, but lately "Mexican rodeos" have attracted large crowds in New Jersey. Plaintalker found two news articles on the topic. Click here and here to read them.

The festivals have raised questions about noise levels and beer drinking around young children. A rodeo could bring further concerns about animal treatment.

The council meets at 8 p.m. Monday, Sept.9 to approve items moved to the agenda at Tuesday's meeting. The next agenda-fixing session is 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7 and the regular meeting is 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15, both in Municipal Court, 325 Watchung Ave.

--Bernice

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