By SUE ELLEN ROSS

Staff Reporter

LAPLACE – The 2004 Andouille Festival will take place Oct. 22-24 on the grounds in front of the Percy Herbert Building on Airline Highway. In addition to music, food booths, demonstrations, and rides, two events will take place, each with their own restrictions.

The Gumbo Cook-Off will take place on Oct. 22. The festival committee is looking for 10 chefs in St. John Parish or a neighboring parish to compete in this event.

There is no entry fee for this gumbo-only contest, only the first ten entries will compete. Those entering can be individuals or groups. However, the committee is asking that the groups have one chef/spokesperson. Representatives from Chef John Folse Culinary Institute will judge the dishes.

Stipulations with regard to the contest are as follows:

* Must have andouille in the gumbo

* No restrictions on the type of gumbo (chicken, seafood, red bean, etc.)

* Contestants must cook a 5-6 quarter pot of gumbo

* Contestants must pre-cook gumbo

* Entries must be set up and ready to serve for 9:50 a.m. On the festival grounds.

* Pre-judging will start at 10 a.m. Sharp.

€ All recipes must be from homemade ingredients, not pre-packed store bought.

* Gumbo must be pre-cooked

* Contestants must stay on site with their gumbo dish before during and after the show.

* All contestants will donate their Gumbo to the Place Du Bourg senior facility and the Council on Aging after the show is over.

* The Andouille Festival will provide serving bowls, spoons and napkins and one table only for set-up.

* Contestants must provide serving spoons, ladles and all warming materials.

* Cost of ingredients will be considered a donation toward the festival.

* Sponsorship is allowed.

* All recipes must be typed on paper.

Anyone wishing to participate in the Gumbo Cook-Off can call the Department of Economic Development at (985) 652-9569.

On Oct.23, a Pumpkin Painting Contest will be offered for children ages 3-12. The contest will begin at 11 a.m. and conclude with awards at 2 p.m.

There is no entry fee and painting must be done only by the children. Paints and supplies will be provided by the Andouille Festival, participants may bring their own pumpkin or purchase one at the festival.

Ages groups and times are as follows:

3 and 4 year olds – 11:15 a.m.

5 to 7 year olds – Noon

8 to 10 year olds – 12 :30 p.m.

11 and 12 year olds – 1 p.m.