While the pirates partied in South Tampa Saturday night, mayoral candidate Frank Sanchez was in Seminole Heights, changing his mind once again about Ye Mystic Krewe's exclusionary practices. Sanchez was addressing more than 100 artists and patrons at a Covivant gallery fundraiser for city council candidate Kelly "Combat" Benjamin. In response to a question from the crowd, Sanchez acknowledged that he had been criticized for backing off his initial statement that the Krewe should admit women. "The criticism is valid," he said. "I made an error in judgment. My statement didn't need clarification. Any discrimination by government or an important social organization is debilitating to a community. I do think the Krewe would benefit by admitting women. I stand by that statement." We'll see if he holds fast to that position when the crowd is less supportive.Other candidates attending the event were mayoral candidate Don Ardell, and city council candidates Joe Redner and Carole Mehlman.
This article appears in Feb 5-11, 2003.