No more Gumbo Cook Offs !!!!

By Feed Up
Published/Last Modified on Tuesday, October 14, 2008 8:29 AM CDT

Please have the next Gumbo Cook Off at the Suga Arena. We do not need all that traffic blockage to cook a little food. Closing off the streets is stupid. Put all that activity out in the open at the Sugar Arena . What a waste of our law enforcement people , having them tied up directing trafic like Boy Scouts ! Get the Cook Off out of here.

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City Limits wrote on Nov 5, 2008 9:08 AM:

" Please people this has been going on for almost a month now. It is what it is and we probably can't do anything to change it. Go to the councel meetings and protest there if you want something done. We have bigger issues going on in the world than a d**n gumbo cookoff. We have a Muslim as our president and you worry about streets closing. He gets his way we probably will have muslim's gaurding our streets to keep us in our homes anyway. Please people talk about something that might actually help our community for a change. "

AC wrote on Nov 5, 2008 8:21 AM:

" It doesn’t seem that too many people care about the road closings only the person who posted this message and a few others. Honestly that is not important to me at all...I just think it needs to be moved to accommodate the larger crowds that it has grown to have.The amount of people that go now is much higher than it used to be and it is has just grown to be too big for the Plaza.ANYONE can see that.The only argument against it is "it’s been there forever, leave it alone" which is completely ignorant. "

just wondering wrote on Nov 4, 2008 4:26 PM:

" I was just wondering.. if you have a problem with them closing the roads for parades also.. I know that I dont...and you say a little food have you ever been to the gumbo cookoff...do you have a problem during sugarcane festival when they close the streets. "

A New-New Iberian wrote on Nov 4, 2008 9:26 AM:

" As this was my first time going to the cookoff, i was amazed at the number of people who turn out for it... So many booths and so many really nice people who did the cooking... i do agree that it could be moved to another open location, and most certainly add a few more drink booths.. i would attend again and invite friends to this even... GREAT JOB CHAMBER.. cant please everyone, but you pleased me! "

A New Iberian wrote on Nov 4, 2008 9:22 AM:

" Seeing as this was my first time going to the cookoff, i will admit, the crowds were unbelievable, which is a good sign that the festival is certainly popular with the locals and then some, and they really do have a good thing going... but i can see it being moved also to a more "open" area and please in the future, add more drink booths... that is the only thing i can see much needed improvement on.. great job Chamber!!!!!!!!!!! "

Dont Have A Clue wrote on Nov 3, 2008 4:59 PM:

" To the person who wrote to "youll never know". Apparently you are unaware of a few facts about this event. First of all the chamber can not simply close off a street. The police department is in charge of that. When they see the crowd grow and safety becomes a concern the street is closed. Just on Sunday the crowd is over 15,000 people so don't post that it's only 2000. Where have you been, under a rock?? Would you be happy if nothing ever went on in this town? It seems as though over 15,000 people enjoy this event. "

AC wrote on Nov 3, 2008 12:39 PM:

" So let me get this straight.... Since tradition is so important to all of you. I suppose we need to bring back slavery right? And also only Land owners can vote.. And only white men can own land...... Those are all things that changed. Should we go back to those times? We should according to all of the "It's tradition" and "leave it where it is" and "if you dont like it dont go" people. "

Danielle wrote on Nov 3, 2008 10:42 AM:

" You are right..Nothing better to do..It is tradition..If you don't like it, don't go down Main St..We will not change tradition because of pure stupidity!! "

to youll never know wrote on Nov 3, 2008 9:52 AM:

" Want to talk about stupidity? The city of New Iberia has a population of approximately 35, 000. I would estimate that the Chamber of Commerce has no more than 2,000 participants.

The city of New Iberia allows the Chamber to inconvenience the remaining 33,000 taxpayers by closing a major thoroughfare and a few city streets. What has the Chamber done with the money? They succeeded in convincing some idiots that getting rid of their Police Department was in the best interest of New Iberia. "

You know wrote on Oct 31, 2008 5:11 PM:

" We must be very bored with our lives to go online to argue about this issue. Be thankful, we as Iberians, have events to to stop the boredom. And then we won't have to go online so much to find something to complain about. I think our events are handled just fine. If you don't like it, don't go. Just that simple. Have a Blessed week-end. Don't forget to change your clocks back. "

AC wrote on Oct 31, 2008 12:14 PM:

" I have gone for the last 6 or 7 years with the exception of this year because I was unable to go. Also I am not complaning. I am making suggestions. I never once said I will not still attend if it stays where it is currently held. Why is it that when people make suggestions on how to make things better and how to improve them, the "leave it the way it is" police show up and tell the people who just want to make it better to just stay home? Will that make it better,when no one goes? "

Just Curious wrote on Oct 30, 2008 5:37 PM:

" TO AC: With all of the compliants that I am seeing from you and with all of the answers to the "so called problems" with the Gumbo Cookoff, I am curious of a few things. How many times have you attended the Gumbo Cookoff? How many hours have you volunteered for the Gumbo Cookoff? As a participant, how many years have you worked with a team? You seem to have so many complaints about such a wonderful and well attended event, so I am just curious. "

City Limits wrote on Oct 30, 2008 10:57 AM:

" THANK YOU to Youll Never Know! It is amazing the stupidness people argue over. Sometimes change is good but what is the Sugarcane Festival and the Gumbo Cookoff hurting? NOTHING! Once a year for one weekend, OMG it's the end of the world because the roads are blocked for one weekend. I love it all. New Iberia really doesn't have that much to do as it is, So the few things we do have people want to complain. If we had it in a different city people would complain about how far they have to drive. Complain complain complain... "

Michelle wrote on Oct 30, 2008 9:49 AM:

" OHHHHH. And to add to my last comment. To those of you who continue to B*#@H..SIMPLE SOLUTION... Stay at home and you won't have to worry about the road blockages.... :) "

youll never know wrote on Oct 29, 2008 5:22 PM:

" I think that all of you need to get a life. Why are you worried about where the gumbo cookoff is? Is it killing you? Honestly, do you not have anything else to do with your time then to come on the internet and look for something to start an argument about? The streets are closed for what, 3 days at the most? You can drive around. Now that gas prices are going down, you don't have that to argue about anymore so spend an extra 2 miles going around. Get off the computer with stupidity. Have a great day:) "

Michelle wrote on Oct 29, 2008 3:32 PM:

" To one of my FAVORITE MEN.. :) Mr. Gerald, We think you've done a WONDERFUL job with the Gumbo Cook Off. Keep up the good work and hard efforts put into it.. We Love you.... "

Kim B wrote on Oct 29, 2008 3:08 PM:

" You can not put booths in the roads. DOT will not allow it. Anything that is in the road has to be able to be moved in a moments notice in case of an emergency. That is why everything is off the streets. They close the roads for the safety of the people crossing not to expand onto them. I still say that you have to park far either way. I go to the chili cookoff and always have to park 3 or 4 blocks away plus cross the whole park(which is big). "

jaz wrote on Oct 29, 2008 2:30 PM:

" why is it people are never satifided there are a few things people can do as a family here in new iberia and the gumbo cook off is one lots of people like myself walk to the event the kids love the walk as well as the food and meeting up with family members add school friends I much rether hane a couple os streets blocked off with family acitivity than blocked off for crime and no matter where they have the event there are going to be police "

BeauL wrote on Oct 29, 2008 1:35 PM:

" I personally, would not live in the city of New Iberia for all the money in the world. "

AC wrote on Oct 27, 2008 3:32 PM:

" I do not think that the complaint of blocking off the roads is a valid one. There are many ways around the city without using Main Street. I think Parking is an issue. Parking for the current location is horrible. There are no large parking lots anywhere right there except for the church. That puts people walking very far. What about the handicap people? I know I couldn’t find a spot closer than about a half a mile. What about the person with a plastic hip or in a wheelchair? They shouldn’t go because of those things? No, Relocate it. "

Gumbo Cookoff Supporter wrote on Oct 27, 2008 2:04 PM:

" I think the gumbo cookoff is a great event but I think they need to resituate the way it is set up. I think they need to put all of the gumbo tents on the streets and don't put any in Bouligny Plaza's parking lot. Just like it is done for the Fais Do Do's, have that area for dancing and chairs. If you want gumbo walk along the outerskirts and purchase the gumbo. It's too crowded the way it is done. Or simply have it at City Park, it's all shaded and lots of room. "

Where to put It wrote on Oct 27, 2008 12:28 PM:

" Having the cook-off in town isn't so bad. Sure there are some problems that need to be worked out. I think the Sugarena is not the answer. It isn't a sanitary environment for the preparation of food. The city park is a very good location, but there are issues there, also. Discontinuing the event isn't fair to the participants who enjoy the entertainment. You can't please everyone and we need these events or the folks in New Iberia will go stir crazy. "

A663 wrote on Oct 27, 2008 12:19 PM:

" Having it at the Plaza is liek a tradition! Its just 1 weekend a year, just deal with it. There are other ways around town you can take to get where you need to go. "

Whats the problem wrote on Oct 27, 2008 11:48 AM:

" 67% of Americans are unhappy with the direction the country is headed. We have electricity, running water AC & Heat. 95.4% have jobs, cars to travel, grocery stores accessable anytime, restaurants, emergency workers, entertainment, religion, to name a few freedoms. 90% teenagers own cell phones & computers. The most Blessed people in the world who do nothing but complain about small issues & what we hate instead of thanking the good Lord we live here. We must enjoy the freedoms we have. It could be worst. Have fun and quit complaining. Others don't have it so good. "

To how about this wrote on Oct 27, 2008 9:22 AM:

" Just wondering what makes you think "The Chamber is marketing themselves to the wrong crowd now".
I find it is the same people that go. Everynow and then you get a bad seed in there but for the most part I find the crowd is the same just bigger. But the city is growing so it would only make sence that the crowd would get bigger. "

AC wrote on Oct 27, 2008 9:12 AM:

" Why is it that when someone suggests a change it is viewed as complaining? I think the Gumbo Cook-off is great. It just isn’t in a great location. To all of the people who say that’s enough leave it where it is and just don’t go. Please go and end yourselves for the betterment of society. Or get out of your ruts and realize that it is too big to be held where it is currently located. Look for a better location. Be a little open minded for once and you stop complaining because someone doesn’t like what you like. "

How about this wrote on Oct 26, 2008 9:04 PM:

" Let's just remind the Chamber to not get too big for their britches. Don't get so greedy that you sacrafice the quality that we have come to enjoy. The cookoff began on Main Street and should be kept there. By the overexpansion I believe that many of the people who typically would spend more money have chosen to stay home rather than fight the overcrowding. The Chamber is marketing themselves to the wrong crowd now. Isn't there a saying about class and money going hand-in-hand? "

HELLO wrote on Oct 26, 2008 7:50 PM:

" Sheriff Ackal does not "supply" Deputies! As some one said before, They are paid for!
Lafayette has downtown alive every week and they dont complain. New Iberia will never go anywhere with the attitudes in this town. "

Oh please wrote on Oct 26, 2008 10:39 AM:

" I remember when the festivals were held in the city park. We, when we were teenagers had a blast & couldn't wait unti the next time & when things started changing, everyone had issues. It's alot of fun. An outing for the family to enjoy. We need to have entertainment for our community. If you don't like it or don't want to have anything to do with it, don't attend. Seek other routes until it's over. Leave it for those who enjoy these events. Why do people complain so much? Be thankful we have freedom. "

Observer wrote on Oct 26, 2008 10:24 AM:

" The chamber of commerce "bullies" will force their way on the city. Instead of promoting businesses, the orgaization is just a clique for control freaks. "

Knows wrote on Oct 26, 2008 10:16 AM:

" SPEAKING OF A DUMP.... It's such a shame people work year round to maintain the "flower beds" along Main Street (whether city employees or private citizens), and twice a year all that work is trampled, littered, urinated on, and generally ripped off. The city employees are being payed of course, but it's our tax dollars. I know it must be frustrrating for those business owners and other volunteers fo see all their work trashed and have to start over, Most of these private citizens also pay for the plants, little flowers, etc.. out of their own pockets. "

Question wrote on Oct 25, 2008 3:45 AM:

" Why is it that the Chamber of Commerce and the Sugar Cane Festival Association the only two organizations that have to close city streets for their fund raisers. Will Mayor Curry issue a permit and Sheriff Ackal supply Deputies to other non-profit organizations to have similar functions on Main Street? Just think how much money would be brought into the community if we had a function on Main Street every other weekend. Better yet, how long will it take before our beautiful downtown area turns into a dump!! "

Enough wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:55 PM:

" Now that's enough!! I truly applaud our city officials and government for beautifying our downtown area. A hugh amount of our tax dollars have been allocated to create a pleasant atomsphere to our downtown area. Why not enjoy what has been put in place for us. I also believe the cooks enjoy being downtown. That's enough, just be happy and thankful that we have a wonderful event that brings together family, friends and the community right here in downtown New Iberia!! "

oilieldtrash1976 wrote on Oct 24, 2008 4:58 PM:

" what genius thaought that up lets cook in a livestock building real sanitary rocket scientist. the gumbo cookoff is a wonderful event and is perfect where it is if you dont like it plan that weekend better and be somewhere else "

AC wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:26 PM:

" Honestly yes that would help to put out places for people to sit in the shade.... but that is not the only thing.... the Plaza is too small.... people are on top of eachother.... at the park the people can spread out.... as for parking, it would be much better at the sugarcane festival.... you have the entine park's parking spaces as well as a lot of side streets that are easy to park on. Also a lot of people would walk from their houses that live by the park. So the parking situation would be better there. "

Kim B wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:40 AM:

" To AC: Yes it may be possible to use the sugarcane building but it would take many more volunteers to pull that off. They do not have enough as it is. Not to mention the time it would take to transfer and set up everything. Would you willing to volunteer two days extra days on top of the three that you already volunteer, and your vehicle and a trailer to move everything? Plus there will be extra fees for useof building. AC would you be happy if tents-and-bleachers-were put-out-and the-restroom-situation-were fixed. "

Kim B wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:36 AM:

" To Jami M: LOVE the response. To add to it- Plaza has Cox cable to set up TV’s for football, Parking will be horrible at either place so that is not an argument and also Judging has to be in a closed of area that NO ONE can enter. not even Gumbo Committe.

If it aint broke don’t fix it!! :-) "

AC wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:26 AM:

" Instead of it being like the chili cook-off, what about being at the Sugarcane Festival Building. There would be plenty of room inside for the Chamber to have an office set up, and the back parking lot can be where the booths are located (On cement) If there isn’t enough room for all of them in the parking lot, they can go on the roads right there as well, that should be plenty of room. There are covered pavilions where the bands could set up right there. There are benches all over for people to sit and eat. "

AC wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:23 AM:

" Well thank you Jami M. That is the first reasonable answer I have heard on this forum on why it should stay where it is. Doesn’t that answer sound so much more logical than "It has always been there so it is staying"? Now that you mention all of that, the park might not be the best place, or maybe just not the way we think of it. It seems that we could figure something out though. There should be a way to do this is a more spread out place. "

Gumbo Lover wrote on Oct 23, 2008 6:47 PM:

" We live in a hot state and no one can control the weather, I think the Gumbo Cookoff is great and I and my family enjoying traveling to New Iberia and enjoying ourselves.

Keep the Gumbo cooking!!!!!!!!! "

Jami M wrote on Oct 23, 2008 4:58 PM:

" The people complaining about where the Cook-off is being held really have no idea, and have given no thought, to what goes into the process of preparation and successful execution of an event of this magnitude. The CHAMBER OFFICE is the backbone of this event. During the Gumbo Cook-off weekend there is someone in the chamber office at all times. Calls are being taken, ticket sales are being overseen, complaints are being worked out, payments for the bands that you enjoy are being processed. None of this would be possible without the resources of the chamber-office-(computers-phones-storage etc…) "

Jami M wrote on Oct 23, 2008 4:56 PM:

" This is why the Plaza is so ideal. The Chamber Office is located across the street from the event so the people who are in charge of running this event can be on site and take care of any complications that may arise without any trouble.
In addition, you have the pleasure of a cement dance floor (not dirt or mud) and participants can count on a sturdy base (cement) for setup and cooking.
Teams setup their tents a day or two ahead of time so they can be ready for Sunday morning "

Jami M wrote on Oct 23, 2008 4:55 PM:

" ,… this requires them to leave their equipment out all night. At the plaza, security can safely and efficiently guard said equipment from vandalism and thievery. Should this event be held in the park there could be no guarantee that anything would be safe in such an open, dark area. That would take resources that are not available.
The park has no cement, only grass and dirt. In the grass and dirt you will have lots of mosquitos and flies around the food "

Jami M wrote on Oct 23, 2008 4:53 PM:

" . Definitely more critters when you are trying to sit and eat. ANTS EVERYWHERE!
If a new setup can somehow be figured out in time the band and dance area will probably have to be far away from the food and drink tents. VERY INCONVENIENT!
In the plaza, should it happen to rain on the weekend of the Cook-off, everything can go on as scheduled without much of the plans changing and people would still be able to attend. If the event were held in the park and it rained everyone would be miserable. "

AC wrote on Oct 23, 2008 3:38 PM:

" Well thats it... New Iberia Native says it stays so it will stay..... we can lock this forum now.... Thank you everyone for your comments but New Iberia Native has spoken. So it is written, So it shall be done. "

New Iberia Native wrote on Oct 23, 2008 9:40 AM:

" I have been attending the Gumbo Cookoff for 14 years now since it first started. Having it at Boulany Plaza is so people can also walk the Main St. Strip. Shooping, Bars, Art Stores etc. This is the perfect place to have the Gumbo Cookoff and I haven't complained a year yet. Infact I also cooked for Fremins Food and Furniture quite a few times. Get used to it the Gumbo Cookoff stays. "

complain complain complain wrote on Oct 22, 2008 2:46 PM:

" If they move to december then people will say its to cold or to close to the holidays and they can’t spend the money. People will complain no matter what!! "

AC wrote on Oct 22, 2008 8:41 AM:

" I love the people who say "it has been like that forever, leave it alone".... so nothing should ever be changed in your opinion? We should stop making cars and go back to the first style car ever made? Or we should go back to black and white television. or better yet no television. We should go back to no air conditioning in houses heck no electricity at all. Or everyone go back to dial up internet....I mean thats all how it used to be.... No you change things to make them better. "

AC wrote on Oct 21, 2008 2:49 PM:

" There wouldnt be a big competition betweent he chili cookoff and the gumbo cookoff.... have the chili cookoff early in november and the gumbo cookoff in early december. The park has places to sit, plenty of room to spread out and not be on top of everyone. Also has room for kids to run around and play without having to worry about them hitting people trying to eat hot gumbo. Can one person please tell me a reason why it should stay downtown. "Because thats where it has always been" or "cuz i want it there" do not count. "

City Limits wrote on Oct 21, 2008 2:31 PM:

" Leave the Gumbo Cookoff alone! And the Sugarcane Festival. It has been like this for how long now? Complain, complain, complain is that all you people ever do? If you don't like it don't go simple as that. Why mess with something that don't need to be messed with? I see so many complaining 9 out of 10 you were there enjoying it so shhhh. Twice a year Main St. gets blocked off for a weekend oh boohoo, poor N.I. residents that don't have a life have to drive a little further to get somewhere. "

country girl wrote on Oct 21, 2008 1:28 PM:

" I stopped going to the gumbo cookoff the past 2 years - too many people and not enough room. The Sugarena would be a great place. The Wild Game Cookoff is always held there and is a great success. So is Pandapalooza and the Hot Sauce Festival. "

to personally wrote on Oct 21, 2008 9:55 AM:

" sorry i misread your comment. I see now that you said driveways around the park. I thought you meant main st.

I see everyones point but I dont think it really needs to be moved. There will be complants either way. And to those that say move it back. If they move it to november then it would be competeing with the chili cookoff. The weather is perfect today, It is just hit or miss, A chance you have to take. "

to personally wrote on Oct 21, 2008 9:39 AM:

" I get that it is anoying to have main street closed but what if a kid would happen to run in the road while a car is driving by. I think it is alot safer just to close the road. I know you can post signs that say 5 mph or something, But did you know that 3 people ran straight throught the barricades this year, With a cop standing right behind them. People cant not drive these days. It is better to be safe then sorry. for two days just take-a-two-block-detour-its-not-that-bad. "

Glad I moved wrote on Oct 21, 2008 8:51 AM:

" I agree move the cook off, its one of the last events in this mud puddle of a town worth attending and should not be wasted of this narrow minded community. Lafayette would love it. "

personally wrote on Oct 20, 2008 8:29 PM:

" I think some people are misunderstanding what some of us are saying. I personally would have loved to go to the gumbo cook off but first it was way too hot. Second, no way would I bring my children there... too many people. Now that said, the Sugarena would be a ridiculous place to cook gumbo... unless you like sawdust in your gumbo. I still argue the park would be perfect. And as long as you don't block any driveways, I don't think the area residents would complain. The chamber should be happy that it has grown too big for-its-location-that's-a-compliment-to-them! "

City Limits wrote on Oct 20, 2008 2:44 PM:

" Also, uh think about. Animals held at Sugarena for various events, and cooking food people put in their mouths? Ummmm NO. I'm not bashing the Sugearena at all, it's just it is UNSANITARY, to have people cooking where animals have used the bathroom. It is the Sugarena to help with rodeo's, 4-H, Hurricane's, Other animal shows, etc... They can have all kinds of events there, but not when it comes to cooking and eating food. "

City Limits wrote on Oct 20, 2008 2:38 PM:

" I love the Sugarcane Festival's and the Gumbo Cookoff's. I do agree it is hot but it is still fun. Tasting all thesse different gumbo's and the judging and being family oriented. I brought all 4 of my kids to the cookoff. It is perfect just where it is. All you people that don't like it move to another town that does absolutely nothing all year long and you can be free to run the roads as you please. I don't think y'all like to be on the roads y'all just leave for these occassions to complain. "

Madi wrote on Oct 20, 2008 8:35 AM:

" The gumbo cookoff is getting overcrowed. But the Sugararena? how gross to cook food there. IF they would ever change locations (which I could care a less I enjoy it anyway) Why not he city park? Its shady and wide opened. "

to my pov wrote on Oct 19, 2008 7:53 PM:

" I have a wonderful idea what to use that eyesore that you want to call a prospective outdoor pavilion or historical site. Wht don't we tear it down and use the space as a grassy asre for people to enjoy and take the money we save and pay down the debt we owe on the sewrage plant so we can avoid further penalties from the feds. How about our wonderful counsel practice some fiscal responsibility while our ecomony can still support it so when the lean times come we are a little less burdoned. Just a though but maybe the/right/one "

Everyone Complaining wrote on Oct 19, 2008 4:41 PM:

" OMG! People. please if you dont like where it is DONT go anymore. I LOVE where is it. I dont go anymore cause it is to many people for me. SO I go on Saturday instead. NEW IBERIA PEOPLE please so all the yack yack.. STAY HOME. "

Gumbo lover wrote on Oct 19, 2008 3:27 PM:

" I agree that the Gumbo Cook-Off has out grown the area where it has started. The first three years of it existing downtown was fine. Now the traffic, parking and then number of people it draws are just too much for the downtown area to handle. It's too crowded to enjoy eating your gumbo! I hope the chamber moves the even to the SugarArena. "

To the cooks wrote on Oct 19, 2008 1:32 PM:

" Where would you rather cook? "

hunters... wrote on Oct 19, 2008 1:23 PM:

" if they move it later in the year i dont think they would have as many cooks becuase many of them are most likely hunters.

Disagree has a good point how many people go to the chili cookoff vs. the gumbo cookoff. Does anyone know? "

Alex wrote on Oct 19, 2008 12:18 PM:

" This is an excellent idea. Having all festivals at the sugarea is a good way to avoid all headaches associated with these events. "

SMSH wrote on Oct 18, 2008 11:44 PM:

" I think they ought to move the gumbo fest to the cool new community center in Cade. "

Steve wrote on Oct 18, 2008 5:05 PM:

" I agree but, I think it should be held in the park. There is plenty enough space if the set the booths around the circle. Use the gazebo for the bands. If the Chili cookoff can use it, why don't we use it for the Gumbo Cookoff?
and change to to a cooler month (Nov) "

Disagree wrote on Oct 18, 2008 11:57 AM:

" I think the thousands of people that go may disagree with you! If you dont like it dont go. I would love to know if all these people complaning actually like ANY event that goes on in new iberia. Does anyone know how many people go to each event that go on in the parish? "

Pepper Plex wrote on Oct 17, 2008 3:01 PM:

" I dont know if it could work or not but I think the pepper plex would be much better there is plenty of room. There is no shopping to do downtown anyway. I have not gone to it in five years because it is just much fun or enjoyable. I have gone to the chili cookoff the last few years and even had a craft booth there last year. The chamber needs to wake up the majority of people I talk to locally do not even go. "

Deborah C. White wrote on Oct 17, 2008 10:56 AM:

" I remember distinctly when I worked at the Kidney Center when located on the corner of Main and Iberia streets what Mary Ellen Wilke use to do to us. On the Saturday she and a couple others would walk into our facility and ask that we move our cars so they could set up. They even went so far as to collect car keys from some of our patients hooked up to dialysis machines and moved their cars for them. All the employees thought that took alot of nerve to ask such a thing of-sick-people-and-employees-working-at-this-facility. "

Rationalizer wrote on Oct 17, 2008 1:01 AM:

" Rynella I personally believe the Sugar Cane Festival parade should be done away with. It's very costly in tax payer dollars and dangerous to citizens attending. The children's parade may be the only exception. But when you have drunks on horseback and on four wheelers then you have a bad problem. As for the gumbo cook-off being in 90 degree whether, well that isn't conducive to large crowds wanting hot liquid food. The event should be held in a cooler month and in a location such as the city park. The cost to the-tax-payer-would-be-minimalized. "

My POV continued wrote on Oct 16, 2008 11:11 PM:

" For instance, why not tear down what's left of the warehouse that's crumbling adjacent to the Plaza? I understand it's historical significance, but will it honestly ever be resurrected/turned into a museum? A nice outdoor pavilion would sit perfectly on that site or it would make a great location for additional parking. And what ever happened to redirecting the flow of traffic around downtown? There were several ideas...then it went nowhere. As for the bathrooms, I haven't seen them clean in 20 years! Surely someone is responsible for preparing them for an event. "

My POV wrote on Oct 16, 2008 11:04 PM:

" The logic these complainers are using is the very reason New Iberia is stagnant. Traffic? Seriously? You probably think Admiral Doyle is "too busy" or driving across the bayou is "so far out of the way." There is much to be said about small-town life, but there is also a whole other world outside of the parish line (and your narrow points of view). Sure the city could improve the Gumbo Cookoff, but only with CONSTRUCTIVE criticism and POSITIVE feedback. continued "

So basically... wrote on Oct 16, 2008 6:34 PM:

" it can’t be hot so they need to get a really big AC, they need more space but don’t block the roads, don’t serve beer so noone will be drunk, Build a new sewage system so the bathrooms will work better, don’t pay to have so many police officers, Move it to either the park so you have to park in the neighborhoods around there which will then complain about the cars parked in their yards and walking so far or the horse barn and cook in dirt and poop. Yeah-that-all-makes-sense!! "

Great idea wrote on Oct 16, 2008 3:53 PM:

" since they are spending over a million dollars sprucing up the West End AND since the West End closes off MAIN street and St. Peter St. for the Sugarcane Festival, The next Gumbo Cook off should be at the ultra safe and beautiful West End. The Chamber of Commerce should have it there because their main purpose is to support local businesses. Right? Since the tax payers money is being dumped there, have the cook off there. "

personally wrote on Oct 16, 2008 3:20 PM:

" Perhaps if the city had not blocked off the bridge on Duperier traffic would not have been as bad. It was unnecessary to place the block there. It could have very easily been placed on the other side of the bridge allowing traffic to go down the alley. That still does not solve the parking issue. And I really don't see how this is a family event. There is nothing for the younger kids to do. The Chili Cookoff has funjumps and slides and other things for the kids. Sorry but my vote still goes to Chili. "

Master Sparks wrote on Oct 16, 2008 12:12 PM:

" The liaibilty would be astronomical to have it at the Sugarrena. 1st the idea of cooking in animal dung and dust,2nd no foundation (cement) to stable a large poy of hot liquids. On a very small portion of downtown is barricaded. Not much of a inconvienence.Besids it's a "Community" event .Not a cook out in the country. "

LYNETTE wrote on Oct 16, 2008 9:45 AM:

" I went early sunday morning because I like the music of Geno Delaphose,also because i wanted to support my town and parish.I figure the 25 or 30 dollars we spent well worth it.

The weather was nice and perfect for gumbo. Everyone was well behaved and friendly. I think the atmosphere downtown is what really makes it an enjoyable day.
Why is it when something positive and enjoyable happens in this town people who do not even go, have something to nag and complain about. "

GET OVER IT........ wrote on Oct 16, 2008 9:31 AM:

" Who cares if downtown is blocked for 2 days? That is the problem with N.I., you have something good/positive for families to attend and all you get is complaints. This is probably one of the FEW events that families can come out to and enjoy with out the rif-raf. We have a beautiful downtown area and WE NEED TO USE IT! Why is it that Lafayette can have festivals and activities that close down the downtown area and they welcome it. We want to be like Lafayette in many ways, but when we do something, people complain. "

Tiffany wrote on Oct 16, 2008 6:46 AM:

" I LOVE THE GUMBO COOK-OFF. I think everyone did an awesome job. All the downtown business are closed on Sunday anyway. New Iberia does not offer fun family events like this because too many people complain. Lighten up and have a good time... "

xxx wrote on Oct 16, 2008 5:52 AM:

" Why not put it in the city park and set up the booths along one of the roads. It's shady, it would give more space to all, and the bands could be set up by the bayou out of the way. Along with all of this they could stretch out port-a-lets and water booths. There's no reason to have it downtown if all the merchants are closed anyway. They could provide parking offsite and rent buses to bring the people in; just like jazzfest and other large events. "

personally wrote on Oct 15, 2008 8:57 PM:

" I did not go this year... too hot for gumbo. I was rather annoyed, actually extremely annoyed when I tried to go to noon mass at St. Peter's and could not get through. Then I drove around for 15 minutes looking for a place to park because the church parking lot was over full. I really lost it when I got inside and mass was practically empty. Move it to November and to the park. The Chili cookoff is much more family oriented. We go every year. Get it together Chamber! "

Rynella Citizen wrote on Oct 15, 2008 8:28 PM:

" You know we don't have enough that goes on in this town as it is, and a bunch of cry babies want to cry because of traffic conjestion and a couple of closed streets. The Gumbo Cookoff has always been down town and should remain their. Here is a suggestion stay at your house if the traffic is too much for you. Whats next move the parade routes too? "

Knows wrote on Oct 15, 2008 7:42 PM:

" Merchants downtown close on those days because the drunken crowd is NOT really interested in what they sell (brides' dresses, for example). At least they are not interested at such a time. All they want to do is use the restrooms and usually mess them up. As stated previously, the public restrooms are in horrendous condition. Who do you think trashed them? The same ones who will trash the store owners' facilities. "

office nearby..... wrote on Oct 15, 2008 4:02 PM:

" do they have it downtown because the office is nearby? I guess if you think of it like that it makes some since to have it downtown. Is the Pepper plex Finished?? Mabey they have an office area in it? I dont have a problem with it either way. I enjoy the event. "

Just my thought wrote on Oct 15, 2008 3:09 PM:

" What about the Pepper Plex? Lots of parking and not in the middle of downtown. "

k wrote on Oct 15, 2008 2:46 PM:

" I love the gumbo cook off, especially Saturday but they could have it elsewhere. Downtown New Iberia is not the best choice. It does make for alot of unnecessary congestion. "

Disappointed Citizen wrote on Oct 15, 2008 2:16 PM:

" To F.G. and T.P. It is very disappointing to see so many complaints about a wonderful event. Consider how much of an economic impact this festival has to the City of New Iberia and the Parish of Iberia (Grocery stores, clothing stores, hotels, bed and breakfast and downtown merchants) Lafayette has a beautiful downtown area and all merchants welcome events such as this. Maybe the Chamber of Commerce should consider contacting Festivals Acadiens and join efforts with the City and Parish of Lafayette. "

AC wrote on Oct 15, 2008 1:50 PM:

" I agree with both sides. I think that it is nice to have it downtown, but it just isnt economical. Parking is hard, driving around is hard, and what about weather? We have been lucky in the past for the most part but this is Louisiana, it rains all the time. Why not have it at the sugarena where it is covered incase of rain... much more parking, easier to control, and the dust issue is a nonn-issue. Do you think that dust doesnt exist downtown? They can buy some turf to law down at the Sugarena if needed. "

What wrote on Oct 15, 2008 1:36 PM:

" I don't really care for the Gumbo Cookoff though I've lived here my whole life. It IS aggravating to have to go out your way because they blocked off 2 blocks of street so a bunch of people can shop and eat. I think they ought to open up at least one lane and have speed limit of 5 or 10. OR turn St. Peters into a 2 way for the event. They DO have lights that go both ways, haven't you noticed? SugArena. That is possible if they would lay tarp on the ground. whether it's dusty or not. "

Shopper wrote on Oct 15, 2008 11:43 AM:

" Dear Lookout - I myself shopped downtown during the the weekend of Gumbo Cookoff and purchased items from more than one shop. Not only that, I have friends from out of town here for the festival and they also shopped with me and purchased more than I did. Had it not been for the festival these people would not have been here to shop New Iberia. Why close down, when you have an opportunity to have shoppers that you normally would not have. Don't be so negative, get with the program. Be creative. "

Business owner wrote on Oct 15, 2008 10:25 AM:

" I say get that cookoff out of town. Move it anywhere , the park or the sugarrena, just get it out. How dumb to block all our streets for that !!!!!!! "

Kim B wrote on Oct 15, 2008 9:40 AM:

" To What:
FYI the Chamber only has 3 employees everyone else is volunteers(like me).If are being negative about something that people volunteered for and enjoy, of course they are going to react. They are just trying to explain they way it works so that people do not get the wrong idea about it.

To Lookout:
Why did you close your business when there were that many people down town? That was a bad business decision if you ask me. And I did not see A bunch of drunks, I saw lots of families.

And-yes-they-need-more-shade!!!! "

Knows also wrote on Oct 15, 2008 9:32 AM:

" Of course the Sugararena is dusty. That's the problem. Instead of being the multi-purposes facility we were told it would be, it is a "horse barn". That was millions of our tax dollars stolen from us under false pretenses. The inside could be paved to accomadate many more events. Let the horses stay outside! Anoher option, since the cookoff is outside anyway (under tents), it could be held out on the grounds. There is certainly enough property there. "

I went shopping wrote on Oct 15, 2008 9:25 AM:

" Why would you close your business down when there are thousands of people down town? I went to a couple of palaces. In fact the little bridal place looked like they were pretty busy to me and they had some cute prom dresses too. "

Understand wrote on Oct 15, 2008 9:22 AM:

" I think it should be the Downtown Merchants Association to decide if they want to be forced to loose business for two daya and have their buildings trashed. The Chamber of Commerce does not represent our local businesses, much less the ones in the downtown area. "

TC wrote on Oct 15, 2008 6:52 AM:

" I say, let's put it in the city park. There's more room, shade,etc. You could use the community center for the judging or other craft booths. I wish the Sugar Cane Fest. and Fair would come back to the park as well. I have very fond memories about the Fest. when we had it in the park. Let's bring back the tradition. If we are to continue downtown, then let's shut down Main st. and put it in the street to have more room. "

Look out wrote on Oct 14, 2008 8:59 PM:

" According to a report in the Daily Iberian, the event is offically named, "The Cajun Creole Food Festival and Shopping Extravaganza and World Championship Gumbo Cookoff." WHAT SHOPPING? All the downtown businesses are forced to close on Friday and Saturday. There is already no parking to be found around Main Street. If you take up the parking lot, there's none! Roadblock the street, and all you have left is a bunch of drunks, urinating on the side of buildings. "

What wrote on Oct 14, 2008 8:50 PM:

" Okay, all you Chamber of Commerce employees. Is all you have to do for your job is to respond to this post? That proves you really don't have any actual work to do, since you get paid to defend the Chamber's propaganda. I wish the area business owners who have been dooped into joining, would realize that it is NOT supporting the community to be a member, and save their money. "

why complain wrote on Oct 14, 2008 7:17 PM:

" Yes it is hot sometimes but October has the least amount of rain, so if you are going to spend that much money you are going to do it when it has the least chance of a rain out.

Second if they moved it the sugar arena then it could not be a free event and then you would complain about that too!

why don’t they build a covered open area with some shade and some new bigger cleaner bathrooms for the use of the city and its functions where the old steamboat house is. "

Gumbo Lover wrote on Oct 14, 2008 6:15 PM:

" I think the cookoff should be held in the city park. There is a lot of shade and it is larger than Boligny Plaza. I cooked at the Dust bowl arena and there is dust everywhere. You cant keep your serving bowls clean . I think that is the most unsanitary place in New Iberia. "

For The Record wrote on Oct 14, 2008 4:27 PM:

" For all of you that are wondering if your tax dollars are paying for security, lets get one thing straight - YOUR TAX DOLLARS ARE NOT PAYING FOR SECURITY FOR THE GUMBO COOKOFF!!! These officers are being paid by the hour (at a very decent rate) by The Chamber of Commerce. Instead of making comments that you are not sure about, why don't you just simply ask instead of creating negative thoughts. "

Bubba Dump wrote on Oct 14, 2008 4:14 PM:

" Hey Wondering.
Get your facts straight. The Chamber does not make a fortune on this event. It also pays for the security. You would be amazed as to how much it cost to put this event on for the city and the parish residents plus the many visitors.. Just think a little if you can. 93 GUMBOS at about 2000.00 per participant in cost. Multiply 93 times 2000 times 6 to see how many dollars are passed around the merchants in our area. Quit being a complainer and join the effort to see the truth. "

Was there.... wrote on Oct 14, 2008 3:28 PM:

" I think the downtown area is the best place. I wish the downtown area was the focus of more activities. We are lucky to have such a successful/nice downtown area. I think that maybe some tents could be set up with tables and chairs, if they keep main street closed, put them there. It is a great way to brin community together and if you notice, they do not have the problems the sugarcane festival have. Keep it downtown, make a few changes to accomidate the people, and do not put this cookoff at the horse barn. "

Agree wrote on Oct 14, 2008 2:38 PM:

" I do like the location. It is good for our downtown. But changes desperately need to be made.

Who is paying for the extra patrols is a good question.

I went one year and have never been back. There is no place to sit and enjoy your gumbo. The only shade they had are for the servers. The bathrooms were inefficient.

It does get bigger every year but I hope these complaints will not fall on deaf ears. I would like to enjoy the Gumbo Cookoff if a few changes were "

give me a break wrote on Oct 14, 2008 1:39 PM:

" I think the tens of thousands of people who show up every year out vote you. It is obvious that you have never run, nor participated in (as a volunteer), a community event or you would know better than to suggest this event move to the Sugarena (a horse lot). That would make no sense what ever. If you don't like it, detour a few blocks and you'll never know it's there. "

Fed Up Iberian wrote on Oct 14, 2008 12:13 PM:

" Some of you have your opinions and you are certainly entitled to them. My opinion is if you don't like where it is don't go and stop complaining. If you take the Gumbo Cookoff out of the heart of the city you will take the heart out of the Gumbo Cookoff just like the Sugar Cane Festival. "

Lynn wrote on Oct 14, 2008 12:01 PM:

" I like the idea of having it where it is. Brings attention to the downtown area. What's a little inconvenience once a year for a couple of days. "

DAVID PEREZ wrote on Oct 14, 2008 11:42 AM:

" I have to say I agree with you it is crowded there is no shade and the bathrooms have no soap no toilet paper. I think the sugarena would be a much better place to have it. I would also like to see it a little later in the year when it has cooled off a little more. Just my opinion but I have not been to it in 3 years because it was very disappointing the last couple times I went. I enjoy the Chili cook off in the park much more. "

resident wrote on Oct 14, 2008 11:20 AM:

" The Gumbo Cookoff has been held at the plaza on Main Street for as long as I can remember. What's the point of having it elsewhere? It would just cause way too much confusion. And there are plenty of officers available to have there and patrolling our streets. And if you would prefer for them not to be around directing traffic and have accidents stopping traffic then you go ahead and keep asking for them not to look like boy scouts. Even if we had it at the sugarena, we would still need law enforcement there. "

Kim B wrote on Oct 14, 2008 10:34 AM:

" I personally like where the cook-off is! It makes it more family oriented. Also I think it is a lot more sanitary to be cooking on cement verses dirt.

I would not exactly call the gumbo cook-off a “little” food. Did you see how many people were cooking, there was like 100 different gumbos.

And If I am not mistaken the Gumbo Cook-off pays for the majority of the police officers that you see out there. "

Wondering wrote on Oct 14, 2008 10:01 AM:

" The Chamber of Commerce makes a fortune on this event. Do they reimburse the sheriff's department for all the extra security?? If not, then our tax dollars are paying to have the Chamber raise money. That means that we are paying for their efforts with which we do not agree, like support politics and politcians we are against (ie Ruth Fontenot, the loss of out city police, etc). "

Agree wrote on Oct 14, 2008 9:46 AM:

" AGREE, AGREE, AGREE!! I have been saying the exact same thing for years!! Why do we have a Sugararena? We must have been sold a "biil of goods." We were told that our tax dollars would be spent on this "multi-purpose" facility, which would the ideal place for the Sugarcane Festival, the Gumbo Cookoff, etc. As it turned out, it is a huge open air barn. $$ Millions for what? "

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