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St. Petersburg Times - January 29th, 2005

Founding members of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla must have been on to something when they started Tampa's first Krewe 101 years ago. Since then, the number of Krewes has multiplied like parade goers' bead collections. Most of the groups join the Inter-Krewe Council, which boasts 49 members. Here is a description of one of the newer Krewes.

YE NOTORIOUS KREWE OF THE PEG-LEG PIRATE

Formed in February after last year's Gasparilla, this Krewe's motto is
"Get on the Good Foot." Its name underscores its mission. The Krewe's 50 members dedicate themselves to raising money to benefit amputees and their families.

Much of the Krewe's work is done in consultation with the Shriners. The Krewe, whose members are largely from Apollo Beach, Ruskin and Riverview, has purchased hand cycles for two teenage double amputees. Next up, special tricycles for toddlers.

To become a member of the unisex Peg-Leg Pirates, one need only an invitation and a heart for more than parades and social events, Krewe Capt. Shirley Huber said. Huber, who lost her left leg 25 years ago in a car accident, is the Krewe's only amputee member.

The Krewe has been participating in several Bay area parades since its inception. Their treasure island-themed float has a waterfall and a tiki hut. They wear tropical print shirts. Annual dues are $300.

But don't look for them in the Gasparilla parade. They didn't get in.
"Obviously, you're disappointed when you don't get in the parade, but nobody was really upset about it," Huber said. "The main thing about us is we really look at ourselves as a fundraising organization first and a pirate second. I think that says a lot about us."

- SHERRI DAY