Bartlett panel against Half Pint Brawlers

It was no small loss for Bartlett business owner Murray Friedman.

For the owner of Bannerman's Sports Grill, the Bartlett plan commission's vote against his special use permit request to host midget wrestling was another strike against his attempt to attract bar patrons with unique events.

Bannerman's, which is already advertising on its website the event to host stars of the cable television show “Half Pint Brawlers, will next have to bring its request in front of the village board at a future meeting after the negative recommendation Thursday night.

The Half-Pint Brawlers perform scripted comedy routines, stunts and wrestling based on their Spike TV show, Friedman said. “In this economy, you have to be creative in how you generate (income); you have to be creative to fill a space of the size that I have, Friedman said. “It's no different between going to Pheasant Run, (or) Drury Lane for a play.

Friedman, who requested and eventually withdrew a similar permit last year with the intention of hosting mixed martial arts bouts at the restaurant and bar off Rt. 59 and Stearns Road, said, “In this economy you have to open your eyes and see new things.

About eight residents in attendance spoke out against the proposed event, citing concerns ranging from the type of crowd the event would draw to whether the performers' sweat would be near areas where food is served.

“I know the economy hasn't been good. I don't see why Bannerman's has to bring this kind of entertainment to Bartlett. I'd rather see it in other communities, said Gerald L. Prybylski, who lives behind Bannerman's.

Rochelle Prybylski, who lives around the corner from the bar, presented a petition Thursday signed by 106 people who oppose the event. She collected 66 signatures last year when Bannerman's wanted to host an MMA event.

Friedman vowed to take the matter before the village board and not to give up on his request. “If we can't get our support from our people to stay open, then what options do we have? Friedman said.

Friedman plans to continue to advertise and sell tickets for the event, noting that if the event is not approved he will refund ticket buyers' money.