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Brothers Say Goodbye To Debauchery

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 23, 2008

Doing The Right Thing

Regarding "Gonzmarts Quit Knights Over Vulgar Gasparilla DJ" (front page, Feb. 19):

First and foremost I want to congratulate both Richard and Casey Gonzmart for their willingness to take a stand against the vulgar aspects of Gasparilla.

I was at the Convention Center along with hundreds of others enjoying the festivities when a charter boat arrived filled with what initially appeared to be eager bead seekers. As we all waited for the ship to dock, those of us on shore were privy to a porno show that was taking place on the charter boat. A woman's panties were removed by a guy as they simulated sexual acts.
Gasparilla is an event that Tampa takes great pride in and it does not need to be tarnished by exhibitionists and drunken fools - either pirates or spectators.

Thanks again to the Gonzmarts; they did the right thing.

MELBA HOOVER

Odessa

Parents Would Be Proud

Congratulations to Richard and Casey Gonzmart for acting on their beliefs. As someone who participated in the Gasparilla Coronation Ball and parades as a child, I applaud them for acting out against the behaviors that we see displayed today.

Gasparilla has become a means for Tampa's so-called elite to drink themselves into oblivion and behave in a way that is totally unacceptable. If I had grandchildren of the age to enjoy the Gasparilla parades, I definitely would not take them, nor encourage them to attend.

I'm sure the elder Gonzmarts would praise their sons for speaking out and say, "We're so proud of you both!"

KATHLEEN C. HUDSON

Tampa

Not Front-Page News

Sometime ago I read where the impact of the Internet was playing havoc with newspapers as a lot of folks were no longer relying on papers as the source of their news. It was stated at that time that it was necessary for the newspapers to orient their publications to local interest items - immediate and statewide.

It has become glaringly obvious that making the front page doesn't take much - especially if you are a sports celebrity or social elitist. Last Tuesday's issue "took the cake." Who gives a rat's patootie if the Gonzmarts retain their membership in the Sant' Yago Krewe.

Although I have attained 81 years of age, I never thought I would witness such on the front page.

BOB CRUM

Valrico

Chivalry Is Not Dead

Thank you Richard and Casey Gonzmart for showing Tampa that chivalry is not dead yet. It is encouraging to see men, in this age, stand up for decency and self-respect. Their response left me with a good feeling of what Tampa was once like and can be again.

SALLY HAMMER

Tampa

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