CHAGALL IN THE GARDEN
Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota is celebrating Marc Chagall’s art and his depiction of flowers in it. Several areas of the outdoor gardens are planted in the French style, the conservatory has stained glass screen reproductions as backdrops for orchids, and Payne Mansion has a handful of some original Chagall paintings. Selby is worth a visit any time of year, but these displays are especially lovely. This special exhibit will be up through July.
SERIOUS NONFICTION
No One Cares about Crazy People: The Chaos and Heartbreak of Mental Illness in America by Ron Powers. Mr. Powers put off writing this book for ten years, but, ultimately, felt compelled to tell his family’s story and to educate his readers about the history of the treatment and possible causes of mental illness. As one reviewer stated, it’s really two books in one. Both of his sons developed schizophrenia and one took his own life.
Powers does not stint in sharing his and his wife’s raw feelings nor how they, like most parents, often put the most positive interpretation on early warning signs and behavior. The second book, as it were, consists of the interspersed factual, well-researched chapters about how we as a society have treated, ignored and even abused sick individuals. An important book that deserves to be widely read.
SOUTH OF THE BORDER
Since we did not go to the Yucatan, we had a craving for some good Mexican food. After reading the online reviews, we decided on Habanero’s in Bradenton on Manatee Ave. With our always-up-for-adventure friends, Jane and Mark, we went for lunch. Among us, we sampled chicken enchiladas and beef tacos, the chile relleno, a specialty enchilada, and, of course, the wonderful chunky guacamole. Along with some beer and a margarita. Everything was tasty and delicious and we’ll definitely return. It’s an attractive space, not crowded at that time, and our server was friendly and helpful in the nicest way. Prices are moderate and a bit less on the lunch menu. A good addition to our ethnic restaurant repertoire!
Credits: All photos by JWFarrington (some rights reserved); poppies drawing also colored by this author from Color Me Fearless.
