The Monroe Council of the Arts is sponsoring Dolphins on Parade, a wildly successful public art event throughout the Florida Keys. The wooden dolphins, each one an original work of art, are on display at businesses and private residences through the winter of 2001.

Recent studies have shown that culture ranks high on the list of reasons people give for selecting vacation destinations. Visitors interested in cultural and historical destinations tend to have higher income levels, stay longer, stay in hotels, have a greater interest in shopping, and spend more money with less negative impact on the environment.

Businesses and individuals become part of this Keyswide event by sponsoring a dolphin for $750, which covers the artist's fee and the cost of materials. Sponsors display their dolphins at the location of their choice.

In March the dolphins will be auctioned off at three gala fundraising events: March 22 at the Cheeca Lodge in Islamorada, March 23 at the Banana Bay Resort in Marathon, and March 24 at the Custom House in Key West. Participating artists will receive a percentage of the sale price and the balance will help fund Arts Council programs such as Artists in Schools and ArtReach.

For more information, call Monica Haskell at 305-294-4406.