What a surprise - a Rib Fest, and our local businesses are not allowed to cook and serve their own ribs. Out-of-state rib vendors only can participate. The local vendors can only bring a small sample (one rack) to be judged by out-of-state "professionals." Aren't all of our local businesses "professionals?" How insulting. How much would an event like this bring to our local vendors - the business it would drum up for them? Space Aliens, Rib Shack, Famous Dave's, Roby's and how many others.

Does the Downtowners Association think that people are going to drive to Louisiana or Kansas for a rack of ribs? Outrageous.

Let the out-of-state vendors supply and serve their ribs if there is a large volume of people to feed, but for heaven's sake, allow the public to sample and judge our local BBQ alongside them. Many people have not eaten the ribs at our local businesses. Let them taste the local fare. It would be good for the community. What kind of money are those vendors getting to come here for this event?

Who is calling the shots at the Downtowners Association? Try supporting our local business owners and not the out-of-staters.