Friday, September 09, 2005

You Know What... I'm not done talking about the Saints yet.

An Open Letter To Tom Benson,

Dear Sir.

As a fellow New Orleanian, I'm a little confused by your behavior.

As one of the most visible and powerful marketing presences for New Orleans, if the NFL's research is to be believed, why have you not already come out wholeheartedly, unquestionably, and undeniably out in support of the city of New Orleans, her people, and your fans? Why have you not committed to us?

I'm curious. What game do you think you're still playing?

We, the people of New Orleans, South Louisiana and the Gulf Coast need your help.

Please Sir, the game playing with the state, the haggling over millions of tax dollars is over.

We need you to help lead.

I find it fairly telling that the NBA, who have only been here for four years or so have already committed to staying in New Orleans. They have done this publicly. Yet, you... the Saints organization who has been here for 38 years... where we have bought your tickets, your hats, your hot dogs, where we have cried at your losses, where we have danced in the Superdome to Mardi Gras Mambo at your victories, where we have yet again cried at your losses - have only kind of committed to playing four games at Tiger Stadium.

What is wrong with you?

Please help us. Please commit to New Orleans. Please commit to the future of the city you were born in Mr. Benson. You are a New Orleanian. By birthright. By culture. And hopefully by love.

Speaking sincerely.

Troy Gilbert

10 Comments:

Blogger Cathie from Canada said...

Absolutely correct -- the civic leaders of the next 20 years for New Orleans and for Lousiana will be created in the next 60 days, the people who have the guts and vision to believe in the future of the gulf coast. One thing some have forgotten is that an entire continent, even the world, is now intensely interested in the welfare of the gulf region -- though we were appalled at how the people in the city were being treated by the US government, the world was overwhelmed by your individual courage and fortitude and how well you managed even when your situation appeared so hopeless. The world is impressed with New Orlean's people, and we want you to succeed. You can build on that.

1:30 AM, September 10, 2005  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I live in Galveston, and as much as I'd like the Saints to play a few games in San Antonio, my first preference is for them to play all their games at LSU.

Why?

You guys need the Saints, especially right now. It's maybe the one thing you can really rally around at the moment. Heck, I'm even rooting for them and I'm a (shhhhh) Bears fan.

2:02 AM, September 10, 2005  
Blogger BayouMaMa said...

Amen to that!

Tom Benson...don't turn your back on us now.

For one...it would be unethical.

Secondly...it would be cowardly.

And Third...we need the Saints to win one for New Orleans. Our city was washed away...but our spirits are strong. If you pull them out, it would be a slap in the face to every citizen in the great state of Louisiana.

1:33 PM, September 10, 2005  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hello!

I noticed you were planning a trip into the Marigny on Sunday. If you happen to make it a few blocks into Bywater, my best friend has been looking for any information on her house at 3141 N. Rampart (at Rampart and Louisa). Any pictures/info would be greatly appreciated.

I completely understand if you can't do it, though.

Keep up the great work, and let me knmow if there is anything I can do to help.

Thanks!

Angie Bixler
arbixler@yahoo.com

5:00 PM, September 10, 2005  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Where are you tonight??? Miss hearing about your adventures.

9:13 PM, September 10, 2005  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I just wanted to let you know that those of us who have met your friend PJ at the University of Arizona are all praying for you. We're collecting supplies to send down with him when he heads out this next week.

Thank you for letting us all see what's going on. And remember your friends in the desert are behind you and are ready to help.
~A friend in Tucson

9:22 PM, September 10, 2005  
Blogger TAG said...

I will try - probably more likely I will still be breaking into homes and stealing people's pets.

11:55 PM, September 10, 2005  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Troy, This is PJ your cousin. I am in Tucson, AZ. i am coming to BR this Friday and if you need anything I can bring it to you in my truck while I am down. i am bringing truckloads of supplies to shelters and some requests for things Christy needs. Keep up the fight and don't let go of New Orleans. Much love.

email me at caesar@email.arizona.edu
PJ "Caesar'

2:07 AM, September 11, 2005  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I am so proud of you our son, stay well Now I know why you needed to stay . See you soon and if PJ gets to read this comment we are all looking forward to seeing you and thanks to you and your University. Safe trip Love you
Mom

3:41 PM, September 11, 2005  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dear Troy, I've followed you throughout the storms and I couldn't be more proud. Your honest views of our beloved city brought both pride and tears to me. Thanks for being so brave and steadfast in keeping all of us informed on this heartbreaking scene. Looking forward to getting together with you and your Mom and Dad real soon. Your old friend, Jan F.

9:48 AM, September 24, 2005  

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