City Island Park in Sarasota is becoming one of my favorites places in the city. Today we met friends for lunch at O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill. We sat under the thatched roof near the water watching the pelicans land on the wind-swept waves. It was balmy and the breeze was soothing. We each ordered something different to eat, and we were all satisfied with our selections. Like in England, you have to go the to bar to place your order. We would have sat there a long time waiting for service if our friends Dave and Judy Helgager weren’t in on the QT.
After lunch, we explored the “Embracing Our Differences Exhibition.” Believing that diversity is one of the world’s greatest assets, the exhibit tries to honor diversity and inclusion while teaching the importance of being an “up-stander,” not a “by-stander.”
There are 39 billboard-size images created by local, national and international artists, writers and students. Two of my favorite student quotations are:
“Destroy discrimination. Be like a Panda. They’re white, they’re black, they’re Asian, and they’r chubby.” Dylan De Wulf 5th Grade, Wilkinson Elementary School
Sarasota, Florida“The path of your life JOURNEY is made more memorable and colorful by the cast of characters your encounter” ~ Grace Carlson, Sarasota, Florida
In addition to the exhibit, there are permanent statues, the children’s fountain, walking paths with benches and swings—nice calming place to spend a few hours.
I miss the Season of Sculpture exhibits that were on the bay front. I hope they return.
