Islander Newspaper June 2014 by Islander Newspaper

June 2014

Volume 1 • Issue 1

Inside…

5 Points of View.........2 Ask Miss Manors.....13 Crossword ...............13 Dig In! ........................7 Discount Coupons...10 Home Sweet Hut......15

Island Rituals .............8 Island Social Scene....9 My Wilton Manors .....3 News & Views............4 Over the Bridge........11 Police Blotter..............4

www.IslanderNewspaper.com

THE NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSPAPER OF

Wilton Manors

A Day of Oars & Coors 23rd Annual Island City Canoe Race exhausting but successful Despite steady winds gusting at 14 MPH, The Islanders relay team looked like old pros as they crossed the finish line of the 2014 Island City Canoe Race in a sparking time of One hour and 11 Minutes. Competing against 17 other Teams in this year’s race under sunny skies, the Islanders team looked exhausted but exhilarated as they paddled into Richardson Park. “Fantastic”, is how Scott Williams described how he felt about his team’s seven mile relay time. “We practiced a lot and it paid off”. “V.I.C.T.O.R.Y” his team chanted as they headed off the docks. The Blazing Paddles canoe race team won the co-ed team trophy finishing in a time of One Hour and 15 minutes. The Wells Fargo sponsored team, The Advisors, won the female cup with a record time of One hour and 32 min-

The Islanders Rule as they accept the First Place Trophy.

“This Island City tradition will surely continue to grow even bigger and better in it’s 24th year.”

Field of dreams or field of screams? BY MARK KAPLAN The Islander staff

“Do you want to fix the park or do you want for sale signs?” That was the question one resident posed to city commissioners on May 12 during a discussion about redeveloping Mickel Field, located on Powerline Road. The resident was referring to the use of the park for criminal activities – drug dealing, prostitution and vagrancy – and warned residents would move away if nothing was done to fix the problem. The park, which is empty much of the time, has even been used by burglars to stage break-ins. Resident Kate Donohue accused the city of neglecting the Westside. Others, including Sal Torre, president of the

The Mickel Field bleachers are old and in need of repair.

utes. Second Place in the Men’s Division went to The Hammerheads with a finishing time of One Hour and 18 minutes. Second Place in the co-ed division went to the Special Forces Team of the Natural Resources Group who finished in One hour and 19 minutes. The race started at 10 AM at Colohatchee Park with 17 teams consisting of 10 members each. The seven mile race was broken into separate sections with relay exchange points throughout the city with two team members racing their canoes per section. Wind gust caused some minor problems in this years event with one canoe tipping and two others forced into heavy brush behind Richardson Park. About 400 spectators and team members were

See MICKEL on page 14

on hand at the finish line cheering on the participants. “This is a great event,” Mark Smithson of Wilton Manors said. “I’m an avid Paddle Boarder and it would be great to see an Around the Island Paddle Board Race added to today’s festivities. They could add Kayak relays as well.” The future of the Island City canoe race looks bright for the future. What’s next? The canoe, kayak and paddle board triathlon? City Commissioner Tom Green called this year’s Island City Canoe Race the most successful one yet. “This is the most teams we have ever had entered for this event,” Green announced. “This Island City tradition will surely continue to grow even bigger and better in it’s 24th year.” Burgers and beer awaited the water weary paddlers as they arrived at Richardson Park. It was also a celebration of Wilton Manors 67th Birthday extravaganza. Race organizers made sure that there weren’t any hiccups in holding the two events on the same day.

See WINNERS on page 14

June 2014

The Islander

5 Points of View

Opinions, comments, rants & raves It’s About Time! City Council has finally gotten the ball rolling on installing bike lanes along 16th Ave. Halleluiah! This is long overdue. As an avid WM Bike Enthusiast I cannot tell you how many close calls I’ve had over the years. Bikers may as well have a bull’s eye painted on the back of the shirts in this town. I heard the bike lanes will be started later this year between The Bridge and 26th Street. Hopefully this is only the first phase of the new bike lane project. We definitely need bike lanes to cover the entire length of Dixie Highway and 26th Street too, especially between 5 Points and Andrews Ave Has anyone taken a bike ride along 26th Street? It’s a suicide trek for any bicyclist. Bike on W.M..

— J.B.

The Dumbest Idea Ever I live just off Wilton Drive and, for years, the noise level here has gotten louder and louder. What used to be peaceful evenings sitting on my porch is now a distant memory. Its bad enough I have to listen to drunken midnight strollers singing loud Tunes and hearing the crunching of plastic to-go cups being thrown. Now I understand that City Commissioner Tom Green has introduced a bill to install TALKING CROSS WALKS ALONG WILTON DRIVE! Seriously? Do we really need talking crosswalks? Do I need to hear a loud robotic voice at 4 AM instructing pedestrians to “Proceed With Caution”, “Wait for the Hand Signal” , and “You Have 15 Seconds to Cross.” This has to be the dumbest idea in the annuals of Wilton Manors Fiscal irresponsibility. I goggled the cost of these verbal hand signals and the average cost to install these is $10,000 per intersection. But I’m sure Commissioner Green, in his concern that all citizens from all nationalities can cross safely, would want the bi-lingual talking crosswalks installed… which average $15,000 per intersection! I’m curious Commissioner Green, Have you ever been to Manhattan? I visit Manhattan at least once a year and have never seen one Talking Crosswalk. NOT ONE! I assume you’ll agree with me that the pedestrian traffic is much busier in New York City than on Wilton Drive. So why are there few, if any, talking crosswalks in New York? It’s called fiscal stability. Commissioner Green claims that he is pushing for the Talking crosswalks as an aid for the handicapped and for those confined to a wheel chair. His concern is

It’s a Mangrove Santuary… Not a“Man Grove!” I keep hearing Rumors that Colohatchee Park is closing due to the continued infiltration of male prostitutes. I hope this isn’t true. Despite the fact that a few male prostitutes still line up along the wooden boardwalk waiting for prey. (Hey, it’s supposed to be a Mangrove Sanctuary. Not a “Man” Grove!), recent improvements at the park are impressive. We often use both the boat ramp and dog park. Our dogs love running around the pet exercise area. I would think a simple solution to the park gigolos would be to install a couple hidden cameras that send a live video feed direct to the dispatchers desk in the police department. These Rumors about closing Colohatchee have been running rampant around town for a while. One week I hear it’s closing permanently to finally put an end to the prostitution. The next week I hear it’s to add more improvements. Hopefully these future improvements include cameras. Does anyone know the real story about the future of Colohatchee?

— WM Park Lover Editor's Note… City Officials have stated that they may close the park temporarily due to the planned construction of a nearby housing development. No decision has been finalized yet.

What About Us? I am a long time Westie (West Side Resident.) I am a long time lover of Wilton Manors. I pay my taxes. I take care of my property. And I am sick and tired of seeing our area put on the back burner of the Wilton Manors Redevelopment Stove. It’s time someone stepped up and started pushing for the revitalization of The West Side. The potential for adding tax revenue and economic growth to our city is right here. Where is this so called Economic Development Task Force of Wilton Manors? Have they ever even driven along Andrews Ave? Or are they strictly focused on cramming in as many condos as possible on the East Side and along the Drive so they can help out wealthy land owners make a buck? Here are some ideas: The first step in revitali z i n g o u r n e i g h b o rhood is the rebirth of Andrews Avenue. It’s a dump. Business Owners on Andrews should abide by the rules: Clean Up your parking lot. Paint your signs. Landscape your walkways. Call a cop when you see someone selling drugs. Show me some love, Mr. Pawn Shop Owner. And God Forgive me for disparaging St. Clement Church, but what the hell happened? There was a day when St. Clement Catholic School was one of the most prestigious Private Schools in Broward County. Now you’re holding nasty flea markets in the parking lot to raise funds. And why would you let the once exclusive Parochial School be taken

over by a money hungry Charter School that offers Discounted and State Funded tuition for bused in kids from other areas. If St. Clement and the Catholic Church are really in that bad of financial shape, then why not sell the school and the property? To developers! The possibilities of revitalization are endless along Andrews Avenue. Take a look at Pittsburgh or Harlem. They used ingenuity and good planning to revitalize those towns out of economic despair. We can do it… (Before it’s too late) Maybe it’s time we started to think out of the box. I recently saw where Microsoft is planning on building a huge corporate office in Miami. Does that mean Google, Facebook and Snap Chat are not far behind? Maybe our economic development board can get together with Fort Lauderdale and Oakland Park and send an economic team to Silicon Valley loaded with tax incentives and try to lure these businesses to come to Andrews Avenue and create an East Coast Silicon Valley right here! Why Not? It sure beats doing nothing. How about luring Doctors from around South Florida and creating a much needed Medical Center Area. Or how about an International Restaurant Row complete with outside patios and dining? I guess us West Siders ramble on too much but someone needs to say something. Our Neighborhood is at a cross roads and we must choose a path for the future. I choose progress. I choose clean streets. I choose safe neighborhoods. I choose not to sit on my butt and say nothing.

— A Concerned West Sider

noted. But I think our town is a friendly community and if someone needs help crossing the Drive, neighborly help is easily found. Hopefully this extremely stupid waste of money called a Talking Crosswalk gets voted down by the rest of the City Commission. This money could be used for so many more needs the city currently has.

— C.J.

Hail to the Chief! I wanted to send Kudos to Police Chief Paul O’Connell for receiving The Excellence in Law Enforcement Award from the Anti-Defamation League. I read where Chief O’Connell was honored by the league for turning a tarnished police department around, for his superior leadership skills and for showing the entire United States an outstanding example of what is right with a police force today. The league was right. I see a stronger police presence on our streets since Chief O’Connell has arrived. Good Job and keep up the good work. PS… If you’re reading this Chief, we could use some speed radar traps along NE 24th. The speeders are getting worse every day. It would be appreciated.

— Feeling Safer in W.M. We’d Love to hear from you! Letters should be no longer than 300 words but please note The Islander Editorial staff may edit your correspondence for clarity and length. When submitting your letter to 5 Points of View please include your name, address and daytime phone number. Email us at editorial@islandernewspaper.com or mail to The Islander Box 402, 300 East Oakland Park Blvd, Wilton Manors, FL 33305.

Islander Publications

Box 402 300 E. Oakland Park Boulevard Wilton Manors, Florida 33334 954.530.8101 info@islandernewspaper.com www.islandernewspaper.com The Islander is published monthly. The entire issue contents may not be reproduced in full or part without written permission. Not responsible for advertisers claims or statements.

Publisher .............................. Rich Black Editorial Staff .................. Edwin Nelson ............................................ Mark Kaplan ....................................... Jessica Chesler ................................................ Albert Raff Art Director...........................Jim Pollard

The Islander

June 2014

My Wilton Manors

Photos from the natives

The Wilton Manor’s Kiwanis Club honored our servicemen during Fleet Week in May with a Huge Dinner. An Alligator and Wildlife Exhibit presented by Native Village of Hollywood, Florida was provided as the entertainment for the night.. Members of The Coast Guard are pictured enjoying the show

Lions, Tigers and Giraffes! When did Lion Country Safari open a second location along the Wilton Manors Waterways? If you’re not a local water rat then you may not have seen this artistically painted boat davit located behind one home along the West Side. Children passing in boats think it’s the coolest thing in town.

When people said Progress is coming to Wilton Manors, they weren’t kidding. The newest Bar/ Nightclub to hit the Drive is Progress. The owners of this new LGBT Nightspot promise to bring an exciting nightlife concept like no other in the area. Local resident Diz the Dog has given all new meaning to the term Doggie Paddle. Diz claims he loves canal cruising and he says all treats are welcome.

Who knew that Wilton Manors had a world famous Tomato Garden within its borders? Believe it or not, it’s true and It’s just a boat ride up the canal on NE 15th Terrace. Local farmers, Laura and Randy Comer, say they’re not bragging but Mrs. Comer claims her fresh baked Tomato Pies and homemade cilantro cannot be matched.

No plans this Thursday Evening? Then you must check out the Urban Life Green Market at Eucalyptus Gardens on NE 13th Avenue across from The Wilton Train Station. Every Thursday Night you’ll find a health conscious farm market, wine tastings, live music, gluten free desserts, exotic coffees and teas and much more. It’s bound to become one of WM’s must do destinations. They even have a dog park if you want to bring Spot.

June 2014

The Islander

News & Views The EYE-Lander: Keeping an eye out for you ‘No Vacancy at the UnderBridge Hotel” No, there was no building permit issued for new hotel construction in Wilton Manors but take a peek underneath some of our Island Bridges and it sure seems like Motel 6 has set up shop. Mattresses, Pillows, Suit cases, an Igloo Cooler, a single burner Sterno Stove and of course… plenty of empty beer cans thrown a strew. The Islander sent its editorial staff to take a look under the North Fork Middle River bridge along Dixie Highway and we found 2 new residents living rent free. Across the canal on the Oakland Park Side ( just across from Uhaul ) we saw a homeless family cooking and drying clothes and trying to just stay alive. The homeless have always called Broward County Home but claiming stakes underneath our bridges is a dangerous and scary proposition to Wilton Manors residents. There was no one home when we stopped and knocked on the Underbridge Hotel Door when we went to take photos, but leftovers were clearly in sight from the previous evenings dinner along with two duffle bags of clothes and a complete bedroom set. A check on two other bridges in our city found more sleeping gear and more trash. Most of us feel it’s quite annoying

when the homeless tap our car windows at the red light on federal Highway but for the safety of our children and our property values, we hope the City starts a weekly sweep under the Wilton manors Bridges and kindly tells the homeless bridge dwellers, “it’s Check Out Time.”

Traffic Jams, Fender Benders and Exhaust Fumes, Oh My! The Question we pose: When is new development too much development? Adding new tax revenues and revitalizing dilapidated land tracts is

Police Blotter Just the facts…

Shannon Galiana, 33, of Oakland Park was arrested April 30th by Officer Patrick Newton and charged with Possession of Meth. Sharee Kinder, 28, of Pompano Beach was stopped by Officer Havemann for driving with an unassigned tag and was arrested for possession of marijuana. David Lee Jasinski, 26, of Fort Lauderdale was

arrested by Officer Mario Diaz on one count of Burglary Conveyance along NW 2nd Avenue in Wilton Manors. Jasinski was spotted burglarizing a vehicle. Jasinsky was also charged by Officer Bonnie Owens with Trespass and Burglary of a car along NW 5th Avenue as well.

Jamesha Thompson, 20, of Dania was charged

April 1st by Officer Cassandra Durham with Grand

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Theft for passing a Worthless Check at Publix.

Matthew Flaherty, 28, of Fort Lauderdale, was ar-

rested on April 29th by Officer Paula Walls and charged with Heroin Possession, Cocaine Possession and Drug Paraphernalia. Responding to a call at 7-11 of a disturbance,

Daniel J Schultz, 54, of Oakland Park was ar-

rested by Officer Lawrence Keesling for Marijuana Possession.

Keith Clark, 48, of Pompano Beach was arrested at Publix Super Market by Officer Michael Havemann for Petty Theft and Battery after allegedly shoplifting and assaulting the store manager.

During a routine stop of a bicycle traveling without a light along NE 29th Street, James Demetrius

a goal all Wilton Manors residents desire but when it comes to traffic, who’s minding the Wilton Manors Store? The plans for the new Apartment Complex along the railroad tracks on NE 24th Street look beautiful. Stunning. A Paradise within a Paradise. And 175 new units is surely a needed tax boon. But has anyone considered the future traffic headache? Let’s do the simple math. 175 units with an average of two cars per unit, plus guest and visitors. Hmmmm. That totals another 350 to 400 cars pulling out along 24th Street and onto Dixie

Higgins of Fort Lauderdale was arrested by Officer Kevin Loughran and charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, cannabis possession and ticketed for not having a required bicycle light.

charged with Resisting an Officer along Andrews Ave. The defendant attempted to run from Officer Kevin Loughran but was thwarted when he tripped on his own pants and fell to the ground.

Alexander Galarza, 29, of Fort Lauderdale was

Darrius Demetrius Toliver, 26, of Sunrise, Fl was

arrested by Officer Patrick Newton for Trespassing in a structure along NE 23rd Drive. Suspecting an intent to sell illegal narcotics,

Christina Plant, 26, of Fort Lauderdale was ar-

rested by Officer Nikkole Cox and was charged with possession of Oxycodone, Possession of Cannabis, Possession of Meth and Possession of Cocaine. Plant had the illegal narcotics in her back pack and was apprehended along Andrews Avenue after she was observed acting suspicious.

David Quackenbush, 62, of Wilton Manors was arrested on a Warrant for Grand Theft Charges during a routine records check by Officer Justine Garcia. A Call to police regarding a suspicious person lurking along NW 30th Court resulted in the arrest of Donald Martice Gary Jorden, 19, of Fort Lauderdale by Officer Michael Havemann after a chase with police pursuit. Jorden was charged with burglary of a dwelling unarmed, Possession of Stolen property, Loitering or Prowling and resisting an officer. charged with Criminal Mischief by Officer Mario Diaz when officer Diaz responded to a report of a person kicking a car and breaking off car mirrors along Wilton Drive.

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along NE 20th Street and unlawfully entering a residence while the victims were at home asleep with the intention of committing the crime of theft.

John Hernandez, 42, of Rochester, NY was arrested along Wilton Drive by Officer Justine Garcia and charged with battery, Resisting Arrest and Trespassing after a warning. Hernandez was reported to be causing a disturbance at a local establishment while cursing and screaming at customers.

Joshua Kayler Bolton, 39, of Oakland Park was

Johnathan Bezares, 21, of Hollywood was

Quality Service Since 1956

Highway and onto 15th every day. Traffic Nightmare! In case no one has looked at Dixie at 5PM it’s backed up. Five points is a mess. And residents have been complaining about the speeding and reckless driving along the 24th street cut through for years. Our guess is that much of the added tax revenue coming from this new development will be spent on widening the roads, buying out existing property owners through eminent domain and installing expensive traffic signals. Just take a look at Sunrise Boulevard in Lauderdale. New developments, just feet from the road, has caused traffic mayhem all because of lousy planning and greedy developers. Let’s not make the same mistakes. Smarter decisions by our city leaders is a must. Bring on the new development but maybe, the next time you have a large complex presenting plans and blueprints, you should be concerned that Wilton Manors may be losing that small town feel. Maybe their plans should be adjusted to build smaller communities with a higher for sale price tag. Take a drive up to Jupiter and see what perfect planning is all about. So many of us moved here to get away from traffic jams, fender benders and exhaust fumes. Please don’t make us move away again.

During a traffic Stop for an expired tag, Michael Campea, 26, of Hollywood was arrested on a war-

rant for false imprisonment, battery and criminal mischief by Officer Laurie Salas.

Fleeing the scene of a disturbance at Publix Grocery Store, Michael Hake, 42, of Fort Lauderdale was stopped and arrested and charged with Trespassing, DUI and having an open container in his vehicle. The arrest was made by Officer Patrick Newton.

Derek Alan Modrok, 40, of Wilton Manors was

charged with Loitering or Prowling and Violation of Probation by Officer Andrew Mitchell after defendant was observed jumping a six foot privacy fence

arrested by Detective David W. Turner and charged with Burglary, Grand Theft, False ID given to a Pawn Shop and dealing in Stolen property. The defendant allegedly entered a lawn trailer along NE 8th Terrace and stole a leaf blower and then transported the item to a local pawn broker.

Rose Patricia Carpintero, 56, of Oakland Park was arrested by Officer Jennifer Bickhardt and charged with petty Theft and violation of Probation after she was observed stealing one box of Whitman Chocolates, a package of Chips Ahoy, one container of Planters mixed nuts and a bottle of White Zinfandel from a Grocery Store. David Simpson, 25, of Wilton Manors was charged with possession of Marijuana by Officer Jennifer Bickhardt.

Jose Garcia, 33, of Wilton Manors was arrested

for Petty Theft by Officer Justine Garcia after being observed by a witness stealing a beer. After being spotted knocking on several residential doors along the neighborhood of NW 28th Court, Kevin Canela, 20, of Davie was arrested by Officer Nikkole Cox and was charged with Possession of Cannabis and Drug Paraphernalia.

After a Routine Traffic Stop along West Oakland Park Blvd., Dainon Grossett, 29, of Florida was arrested by Officer Cassandra Durham. After acting extremely nervous and unable to produce a vehicle registration, the defendant was charged with Possession of a Concealed Firearm, Possession of Marijuana, and Drug Possession.

Robert Sroga, 60, of Oakland Park was arrested by Officer Michael Havemann and was charged with Trespassing after a warning in the area of West Oakland Park Blvd. Steven Robert Peters, 51, of Oakland Park was

arrested by Officer Patrick Newton at the scene of a two car accident along Andrews Avenue that Peters was involved in. peters was charged with refusal to submit to a DUI after the Officer smelled a strong odor of alcohol on defendants breath.

June 2014

The Islander

Wilton Drive business owners looking forward to Stonewall SummerPride Festival Annual event set for June 21, 2014 BY MARK KAPLAN The Islander writer

Naked Grape owners Caleb BenAvram and Tim Slivinski expect a lot of business the day of Stonewall Pride Wilton Manors – held on Saturday, June 21 from 12 to 11 p.m. along Wilton Drive. “As soon as that parade finished people were hungry, they were thirsty. We were packed,” said Slivinski about last year’s event. The two, who sell wine, tapas and cheeses, have no doubts about the appetites of their customers. But they do worry about the weather keeping customers off Wilton Drive on the day of the event – June 21. “The bottom line is it’s a weather-dependant event,” said Ben-Avram.

Angel Levi and her brother Adam Burnett opened Gregarious Drinkery opened in April. Levi is excited about what Stonewall could mean for the business, she just hopes that the kitchen will be ready in time to serve food. Judging by past Stonewall events, Levi and Burnett are going to need a

organizers hope will descend on Wilton Drive to break the Guinness World record. Corrie Boyd, Pride South Florida board member, the group organizing Stonewall, said he is assembling drag queens from all over South Florida to break the record. Asked by the city

“It’s the weekend, so it’s busy to begin with. [But each year] we just get busier and busier,” said Dumas. Antonio Dumas, who owns To The Moon, says he sees a drop in business from his usual customers because parking becomes so scarce during the event. But festival-goers, he said, make up for the loss. “It’s the weekend, so it’s busy to begin with. [But each year] we just get busier and busier,” said Dumas. Along with longtime Wilton Drive businesses, like Naked Grape and To The Moon, new businesses along the street are also looking forward to event.

lot of food, even if only a small fraction of the event’s attendees patronize their business. Stonewall has a history of temporarily adding 30,000 to 40,000 people to Wilton Manors’ population. The most notable population boom at this year’s Stonewall though might be the hundreds of drag queens that

commission at a previous meeting what constitutes a drag queen, Boyd jokingly responded that it’s anyone with lipstick, heels and a wig. The event will also feature free HIV testing, entertainment, vendor booths, food trucks, drink tents and non-profit organizations handing out information. The main stage will be set-up at

Northeast 6 Avenue providing entertainment throughout the day. Two additional stages will also be set-up. The event is also about education and honoring those who fought so gays and lesbians could peacefully assemble and not be harassed. The festival is named after the Stonewall Riots. Tired of being harassed by the New York Police Department, the city’s gay community staged a series of violent demonstrations in 1969. Each year, gay communities across the country, including those in New York and San Francisco, hold events to honor the riots.

Parking for Stonewall will be $10 and will be available in the following lots: City Hall, 2020 Wilton Drive; 8th Terrace Lot, Northeast 8th Terrace a n d N o r t h e a s t 2 6 t h S t re e t ; Municipal Complex, 2100 Dixie Highway; Richardson Park, 1937 Wilton Drive; Iberia Bank, 2465 Wilton Drive; Fort Lauderdale High School, 1600 NE 4th Avenue. VIP passes will be good at all locations. Wilton Drive will be closed, between Northeast 20 Street to Five Points, from 5 a.m. on Saturday, June 21 and reopened at 3 a.m. on Sunday, June 22. The parade will commence down Wilton Drive at 7 p.m. Visit www.stonewallpridewiltonmanors.com for more information about the festival.

June 2014

The Islander

An Interview with Wilton Manors

Why are you called “the Island City”? Because I’m bordered by the North and South Forks of the Middle River— just google a map of me. You’ll see. How old are you? A lady never tells, but since I’ve never been accused of being a lady…I can tell you that I am 67 years young. Good news is that the way things are looking, the best years are ahead of me yet! There is a lot of history behind me, but I always enjoy meeting new people and having new experiences. How have you changed over the years? Change is good and bad... I am sad that they took away the A&W RootBeer stand at 5 Points and replaced it with a bank. I sure do miss those 99-cent chili dogs on Tuesdays. But look what happened to the drive! It’s completely revitalized and vibrant—not to mention that my land values have doubled over the last decade. My stock is clearly on the rise. (Did you happen to see my feature in Tropic Magazine?)

So what should we call people from Wilton Manors? Good question. Wiltonians makes sense, but I prefer Islanders. One of the things that makes me great is that I’m nestled in between other wonderful places like Fort Lauderdale and Oakland Park, but I have a personality all my own. “Islanders” reflects the sense of community people have here. Islanders

care about each other, Islanders take an interest when things happen, and Islanders know how to have fun. Do you get along with your neighbors? Who doesn’t love Ft Lauderdale and Oakland Park? Truth be told, there’s always been some tension. Several times

Oakland Park and I grew up together. He used to come over to Mickel Field and play ball with me until they built that new park off Dixie. We may be different cities, but we’re all still part of Broward. What’s good for me is good for them, and what’s good for them is good for me. What's your favorite time of year?

notes every January bragging how nice the Wilton manors weather is. Bragging is great, isn’t it? Do you have any secrets that only residents would know? If these streets could talk! The only thing people should know that they probably don’t already know is that it really has a small, hometown feel. Once you’ve picked out a mid-century ranch to renovate, it doesn’t take long to make friends with just about everyone and settle in at your favorite place for a cup of java. Do you have any pet peeves? Oh, I have many! My number one pet peeve is when people from Wilton Manors say they are from Fort Lauderdale. Islanders should be proud of where they live, work, and play. My other pet peeve is the traffic. My roads are aching! Too much too fast. I was designed to be a small resort in the middle of Florida, not a major megapopolis with traffic jams and fender benders. I’m very concerned that we are moving too far too fast. Better planning is needed because my roads are soon going to be to small for so many cars. I’ve got my eye on you, Planning Board.

over the years, they’ve tried to incorporate me into their city boundaries. Like a true Islander, I’ve been a hold out, but we’re all still friends. I would love to bump into my old Wilton Manors resident pal Mayor Seider of Ft Lauderdale. He really needs to get rid of that eyesore Hustler Sign. It's the last thing many people see when they’re heading into Wilton Manors, and it’s just not pretty. My other pal

Summer is the season. It's when the best events take place like the Stonewall Festival. Everyone is enjoying ice cream at Double Dipper's, and the Wilton Manors Green Market is ripe with fresh fruit and veggies. (Not to mention all the tourists in their summer skimpiest!) And my favorite thing in the Winter? I have so much fun emailing my buddies in the North like my pen pal, Jersey City, my old school mate, Philadelphia and my long lost bud Duluth. I send them

Are you excited about having a newspaper that's all your very own? It’s on my list of top ten favorite things that have ever happened to me. It's about time I started getting the attention I deserve. Ever since The Tribune left town I’ve had absolutely nothing decent to read except when bulk trash day is in The Town Cryer. Now I can sit on the park bench at the M.E. DePalma Butterfly Park and enjoy a good read.

June 2014

The Islander

Dig In!

Dining on the Drive Say Cheese, Please!

New York Grilled Cheese Company BY JESSICA CHESLER Finding late night eats can be a difficult task when you’re roaming around after midnight in search of something to counteract five martinis or satisfy the munchies. Almost nothing could serve the purpose better than the toasty, buttery, melty grilled cheese. Since 2013, the New York Grilled Cheese Company has been serving up the tasty nocturnal nosh on Wilton Drive. Day or night, a variety of sandwiches toasted on a waffle iron are accompanied by a side of sweet & creamy tomato bisque. The contemporary industrial interiors feature polished concrete floors, black and white photos of New York City and bright yellow

Alex invites everyone to stop by New York Grilled Cheese for fantastic food and great service

Good Morning, Wilton Manors

The Over Easy Café BY JESSICA CHESLER

If you want to know where the locals go, you can find them at the Over Easy Café on Oakland Park Blvd. On any given day between the hours of breakfast and lunch, you will find owner Cathy Cerniglia greeting long-time customers, calling orders, and generally keeping everyone in line—and the line is long on a Saturday morning. Booths and stools fill up quickly for standard diner fare of pancakes, waffles, eggs and homefries, burg- Breakfast or lunch... customer's enjoy the good grub at Over Easy Cafe ers, salads and sandwiches. You can also get a County Fried Steak Dinner or the Black Bean Chipotle Burger which is always a winner. The Mother and Daughter Special (chicken breast, two eggs, and potatoes) is a protein- packed way to start your day, and there are a variety of melts, wraps, and omelets. Speaking of omelets, you must try the bacon cheese burger omelet. Cathy’s own creation has combined breakfast and lunch on one plate and rumor has it, Brunch is History! The Over Easy Bacon Cheeseburger omelette is fantastic! The Good Morning Manors Breakfast Bunch highly recommends The Over Easy Slam for anyone’s morning jump start. 2 eggs, 2 pancakes, 2 sausage & 2 bacon will fill belly up and it’s just $6.29 Late Riser? Then you will not find a better cup of homemade chili in South Florida. Cathy’s secret recipe is just waiting for Guy Fieri to walk in the door with his Diners, Drive Ins and Dives Camera Crew. And Guy would just drool for the Over Easy Sloppy Joe as well. But everyone knows the best menu item is the homemade pie: Banana Cream, Blueberry Crisp, Blueberry Pie, Cherry Crisp, Cherry Pie, Coconut Custard, Dutch Apple Pie, & Mile High Apple. Pecan & Pumpkin are offered seasonally. Once your sweet tooth is satisfied, you start to see the real reason people frequent The Over Easy. This is the kind of place where people know your name, where they care about the community, and ask how your mother is doing. It’s not unusual to see the café requesting canned food donations for the Kiwanis Club of Wilton Manors Food Backpack Program which benefits families in need at Wilton Manors Elementary. They host events to raise money for breast cancer awareness, and they’ve also helped raise money to help community members who have fallen on hard times. Want a good slice of pie and some new friends? You can find them here:

The Over Easy Cafe Location: 318 East Oakland Park Blvd. Phone: (954) 561-1177 • Web: www.TheOverEasy.com Hours: Mon - Fri: 6:00 am - 3:00 pm; Sat: 6:00 am - 1:00 pm; Sun: 7:00 am - 1:00 pm Follow @JessicaChesler on Twitter

metal chairs. Each sandwich is an homage to a NYC street or neighborhood. Among them are the Blue Buffalo, SoHo Sweet Cheeses!, the Manhattan Grilled Mac ‘n Cheese, the Brooklyn Porkster, and the Wall Street. The Broadway Classic arrives with American-cheddar and Swiss on toasted sourdough with melted garlic butter. Each bite is better than the last, but you may have to employ a finger or two in order to separate the molten cheese between those bites. The tomato bisque is a perfect match for the childhood classic. You upgrade to a larger size or go for another side entirely. They offer sweet potato waffle fries with a marshmallowsauce,mac’n cheese, and bacon lollipops to name a few. The MPD (Meat Packing District) Melt comes with American cheese, horseradish chive Cheddar cheese, caramelized onions and slow roasted beef brisket. Just as it should, the brisket melts in your mouth. The flavors meld nicely. Unfortunately the textures never quite come together. The waffleiron toasted country loaf bread held up to the sloppy filling, but you might find yourself wanting to dump the brisket into a bowl and sop it up with the bread (and there’s not much to say about their sweet tea either, but that’s not really why you’re going anyway).

The New York Grilled Cheese Company takes the grilled cheese from nostalgic comfort food to hipster chic. They also present an existential question for the grilled cheese. When is a grilled cheese a grilled cheese and when does it become some other kind of sandwich?

The New York Grilled Cheese Company takes the grilled cheese from nostalgic comfort food to hipster chic. No doubt, you’ll enjoy working your way through the menu in search of the answer to that question. Try it for yourself:

New York Grilled Cheese Co. Location: 2207 Wilton Drive Phone: (954) 564-6887 Web: www.NewYorkGrilledCheese.com Hours: Mon - Wed: 12:00 pm - 11:00 pm; Thu: 12:00 pm - 3:00 am; Fri - Sat: 12:00 pm - 4:00 am; Sun: 12:00 pm - 3:00 am Follow @JessicaChesler on Twitter

June 2014

The Islander

Island Rituals Happenings on the island

JUNE

Brains and Balance Past 60 Wednesdays, 10:00 AM-11:00 AM @ Hagen Park 2020 Wilton Drive. Contact: 954-390-2130. Free for Wilton Manors Residents. $3 for non-residents.Brains and Balance Past 60 is designed for the unique needs of active older adults who know the importance of staying mentally sharp and physically stable.

City Commission Meeting Tuesday June 10 & July 8, 7:00 PM @ City Hall Commission Chambers.2020 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305

Community Affairs Advisory Board Wednesday, June 4 & July 2, 7:00 PM @ City Hall Commission Chambers, 2020 Wilton Drive,Wilton Manors, FL 33305

Dog Obedience Classes Thursdays @ Hagen Park Basketball Court. 6:30 PM – Registration, 7:30 PM – Rally Obedience Class, 8:00 PM – Skill Building & Drill Class. $5 per class / $70 for 6-week class. New classes begin on the 1st Thursday of every month. Call 954-563-7061 for more info.

Island City Book Club June 18 Richard C. Sullivan Public Library 500 NE 26th Street, Wilton Manors, 6:30 PM – 7:45 PM. The Island City Book Club gathers at the library on the third Wednesday of each month. Reading selections include current and classic novels as well as popular nonfiction. All are welcome to join and help select our next book! Contact: Angie Griffin 954-390-2195.

Kiwanis Club of Wilton Manors Meeting 2749 NE 14th Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33334. Every Wednesday at 6:30pm. Kiwanis is an international non-profit organization focused on improving our own community and the lives of others. New members welcome to join us for dinner or to volunteer for programs like the Food Backpack Program for Wilton Manors Elementary. Find us on Facebook!

Planning and Zoning Board Monday June 9 & July 7, 7:00 PM @ City Commission Chambers. 2020 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305

Square Dancing Thursdays 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM @ Island City Park Reserve 823 NE 28th Street. The South Florida Mustangs is the first GLBT International Square Dance Club organized in 1980. No previous experience necessary! Call Ken @ 305-343-1710, Randy @ 305-458-1649, or Tom & Chris @ 954-525-8365

Urban Life Green Market Thursdays 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM @ Eucalyptus Gardens 2430 NE 13 Ave, Wilton Manors. Join local organic farmers and over 20 vendors for wine tasting, fresh flowers, locally grown foods, natural health & beauty products, and more. Event sponsored by SoFLA Urban Farms. Call 954-394-4322 for more info.

Walk Wilton Island City Walking Club Monday-Friday 7:30 AM & 6:30 PM, Saturdays 8:30 AM @ Hagen Park Walk Path, Richardson Park Nature Path, & Wilton Drive (City Hall to NE 9 Ave & Back). Register @ Hagen Park. FREE. If you’re tired of walking alone, or just don’t feel safe anymore, register today, track your distances, and start earning prizes!

Wilton Manors Green Market 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM every Saturday and Sunday in the Wilton Manors City Hall / Hagen Park parking lot. For more information on The Market or to become a vendor, please contact Frank and Ron at (954) 531-5363.

Zumba Fitness Class Island City Park Reserve 823 NE 28th Street, Wilton Manors. Get in shape with fun music and fun moves. Monday, Tuesdays, Wednesdays 7:00pm -8:00pm. $10 per class or 5 classes for $35 or $10 classes for $70.

We Do Too Photography Exhibit Reception June 4 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM @ Broward County Main Library 100 S. Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale. Couples celebrate gay marriage in a photography collection of 24 shots snapped out of state. Call 954-357-7443. Free. Wilton Manors Historical Society Thursday, June 19, 7:00 PM @ City Commission Chambers.

Michael Winters’ Magic Workshop Wednesday June 11, 4:00 p.m., @Richard C. Sullivan Public Library 500 NE 26th Street, Wilton Manors. For ages 9 and up. SPACE IS LIMITED. Pre-registration required. Contact: 954-390-2195.

Stonewall Pride Street Festival & Parade Saturday, June 21st from noon to 11 PM. The Stonewall Pride Street Festival will celebrate its 45th anniversary on Saturday and will extend from N.E. 20th Street on the south end of Wilton Drive to Five Points at Dixie Highway on the North End of Wilton Drive. This year’s Twilight Parade is scheduled for Saturday, June 21st at 7:00 p.m. The parade will begin on the South end of Wilton Drive at Ft. Lauderdale High School and continue up Wilton Drive to Five Points at Dixie Highway. Wilton Drive will be closed to vehicular traffic from 5:00 AM on Saturday until 3:00 AM on Sunday. To volunteer or learn more visit: www.stonewallpridewiltonmanors.com

Earthscapades Science Lab Wednesday, June 25, 4:00 PM For ages 5-12 @ Richard C. Sullivan Public Library. Call 954-390-2195 to pre-register as space is limited.

JULY Katy Perry “The Prismatic Worlds Tour” Wednesday, July 2, 8:00 PM @ BB&T Center One Panther Parkway, Sunrise, FL. This is the first time Katy Perry has performed at the arena since 2011. Capitol Cities will be opening. Call 1-800-745-3000.

Fourth of July Spectacular The 4th of July Spectacular features a patriotic extravaganza with a kids zone, live music, and a dazzling fireworks on Fort Lauderdale Beach at A1A and Las Olas Boulevard. Free Admission.

Geddy the Gecko Wednesday, July 16, 4:00 PM @ Richard C. Sullivan Library. Science rainforest show. Call 954-390-2195 for more info.

Nightfall’s Gothic Side Show Extravaganza Wednesday, July 23, 4:00 PM @ Richard C. Sullivan Public Library. Event Presented by Steadfast Steel. Call 954-390-2195 for more information

Kiwanis Club Fish & Chips Fish Fry and Poker Tourney Saturday, July 26 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Kiwanis Club of Wilton Manors, 2749 NE 14 Ave., Wilton Manors. Hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Wilton Manors and the Oakland Park/Wilton Manors Rotary Club, the event will feature fish and a poker tournament. The cost to buy a meal ticket is $15 and the cost to enter the poker tournament is $40. Volunteer dealers are wanted. Call 609-839-0006.

Do you have a favorite Ritual or Happening to share with the Island? Send us your information and we’ll put it in the next issue! Call 954.530.8101 or email: info@islandernewspaper.com

June 2014

The Islander

13 Even donated 50% of their dinner checks to The Broward House during the Dining Out for Life Event. Jeff Banning joined Jon & Maura of The Broward House at 13 Even along Wilton Drive. The Broward House has over 15 locations throughout South Florida and helps over 6000 women, children and families in need. Alan Holmes, John Newhart, Scott Peeler and Shannon Wyatt turned out to support the Dining Out for Life event at 13 Even on Wilton Drive.

Rosie’s on the Drive was jamming during Their Dining Out For Life Dinner Event. Pictured is Dining Out for Life Director Chad Thilborger, Wayne Masani with his daughter Cara Masani. Chelsea Raffery and Angela Griffey.

Cindy Shaw and Reqel Lopses came out to wine and dine at 13 Even to show their support for The Broward House during the Dining Out for Life Fundraiser.

It was Good Grub for a Good cause as Caleb Black, Howard Packer, David Mathews, Eddie Vandermarks, Jose Matias and Vivian Gonczi all turned out at Rosie’s on Wilton Drive for the big Dining Out for Life Fundraiser. Rosie’s donated 25% of all their lunch and dinner checks to the needy.

The Booths and Counter were filled with customers at The Over Easy Café during the Dining Out for Life Fundraiser. Restaurant Owner Cathy Cerniglia and Dining Out for Life Coordinator Robert Moelius are seen displaying the donations contributed at The Over Easy Cafe throughout the course of the days events.

Art lover’s from across South Florida turned out to view the works of Ed Stevens and his ‘ASK TELL’ Art Series at Tedds Art Works & Gallery on North Dixie Highway. Pictured in front of one of the artist’s most famous works is Marshall Belmaine, Ed Stevens and Gallery Owner and Event Planner Tedd Davis.

Artist Michael Jude Russo and Gallery owner Tedd Davis are shown in front of the works of Mr Russo. An estimated turnout of 200 people turned out for the ‘ASK TELL’ Art Show at Tedds Art Works & Gallery on Dixie Highway.

There was plenty of Hat-a-Tude at Reds Bar on Dixie Highway as The Lady’s showed off their fancy Derby Day hats during Red’s Bar annual Kentucky Derby Day Party. Over the years, spending Derby Day at Reds has become a tradition for many. Pictured is Heather Schwarz, Susan Kruse and Dora Smith

June 2014

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June 2014

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Over the Bridge

Dining Out with “The Ft. Lauderdale Foodie”

Mojo Restaurant Lounge 4140 N Federal Highway Fort Lauderdale 954-568-4443 www.mojofl.com Just like every other customer who walks through the door into Mojo Restaurant along Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale, I had to ask the hostess the standard first time customer question “What exactly does Mojo mean?” Her answer was something along the lines of Mojo means a magical, enchanting evening while celebrating food and wine. Our definition of Mojo? Without a doubt, Mojo means the best Duck Breast and Stir Fry Entrees you will find on the East Coast of Florida! This Fort Lauderdale Foodie very rarely throws out a Five Fork rating, but I have to admit. We got our Mojo On while dining at Mojo’s and every item we tried on the menu was suburb. In a town already stocked with its share of delicious dining establishments, Mojo ssu ub bur urb b dining din di din niin nin ng delivers not only a suburb n ambiance ambi biance experience but an auderdale au derdal da ale not seen in Fort Lauderdale since the days of Le Club. In fact, ade ad e dining at Mojo made us feel like we were part of a club. Mojo ojo j Our first visit to M e Bar’ was a trip to ‘The axing, axing i g, which is quite relaxing, well ell on comfortable and wel i ing its way to becoming a ha local happy hour hang Moj is out. The Bar at Mojo sought ght stocked with many sough after wine selecer tions including over 20 grape favorites offered by the glass. The bartender mixed us one of Mojo’s signature martinis which would have made James Bond smile. Appetizers at the Bar are plentiful. We ordered a Six Onion Mojo Flatbread Pizza (smothered with shallots leeks, scallions, chives, Spanish & red onions), The Meatballs Appetizer and the Asian Tuna Tartare. You won’t want to miss out on the Mojo Meatballs which are a mix of pork, beef, veal, marinara sauce and Provolone cheese). This Jersey Boy was tempted to order a second helping. Why not? The Bar at Mojo offers special Bar Bites discounts throughout the week. Monday’s is ITB happy Hour with 50% Discounts with proof that you’re In The Biz. Monday’s also offers up $6 bowls of Mussels. Tuesday is Tini Tuesday with select $6 martinis. Thursday The Bar at Mojo offers 50% discounts on select bottles of wine. Half price appetizers are offered at the bar throughout the week. From Acoustic Guitar music to amazing Bar Bites, The Bar at Mojo has something for everyone. It’s a great way to end any day and the best reason in town to cut out from work early. Now let’s get to the meat of this review: The Duck Breast Entrée. In a word, “Duckulent!” The Mojo Duck Breast is sautéed in red kraut & apples with a raspberry butter. With all the Duck hub bub since the TV Show Duck Dynasty premiered, it seems more and more restaurants started serving duck entrees. But to find a duck dish this phenomenal anywhere else will be difficult.

A true connoisseur of duck delicacies or any Duck Commando will certainly appreciate this duck feast at Mojo. Our table was also torn when orderin ng from from fr om m the th he Stir Stt Fry selection on the ing oj menu. m Mojo Would it be chick i chicken, flat iron steak, sal salmon, shrimp, or the ve veggie stir fry? And, to o our favorite Vegans D Delight, we went with th Veggie Stir Fry the w which was mixed with or organic brown rice, w wahani and fresh stir fr fried vegetables. The ve vegetables were so ta tasty and you our taste bu buds could clearly tell ey were organic and they h. The he stir fry gets another fresh. ive forks from our ou o u Vegan Foodie! five The Salads are very popular at Mojo. Anthony, one of the Mojo Proprietors, recommended we try the Thai Beef Salad, a favorite among Mojo regulars.. His recommendation was right on. A perfectly grilled flat iron steak w/ artisan blend topped the red and white cab-

nch • The Kitchen is Open for Lu ks! and Late Night Snac rd's Pie! • Try Our Delicious Shephe Live • Your Neighborhood Pub for Music and Special Events! THE KELLY BROTHERS MOTTO: “There are many good reasons for drinking… And one just entered my head. If one doesn't drink when he's living, how the hell can he drink when he's dead?”

bage, celery, carrots, thai vinaigrette & candied peanuts. You’ll rarely find a salad this tasty. The owners of Mojo restaurant, Domenick Falcione and Anthony DeMaio brought their Mojo Concept from the Atlantic City, New Jersey area several years ago and we can only say, Thanks Atlantic City! Domenick and Anthony have created an inviting setting for all of South Florida diners to enjoy and have peppered their menu with an array of selections that they call ‘New American Eclectic Cuisine.’ We call it delicious. We considered it an opportunity to dine at Mojo and will be making many treks back. Dress is casual, ambiance is very artsy (Domenick is a re-known artist with many of his works on display) and dinner for two will average about 50.00 to 60.00. Mojo does offer a Pre Fix Dinner when seated before 6:30 Monday through Saturday Nights. It includes soup or salad and a dessert when ordering an entrée and a happy hour priced cocktail. Add some Mojo to your Life at 4140 North Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale.

• All of your favorite bottled bee rs, cocktails, wines, & specialty drinks ready to be served! • Wines from around the world ! • Awesome selection of bottled beers to keep you smiling!

954-630-2856

Located on the SW Corner of Oakland Park Blvd & Federal Hwy

June 2014

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June 2014

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CROSSWORD

Ask Miss Manors

Solution on page 14

Welcome to the premier edition of the Miss Manors advice column. Here you will find answers to the most profound and frivolous questions about life, love, and the Island City. If you would like advice from someone who can’t manage her own life, but can offer practical solutions for your problems and who isn’t your mom, you can email missmanors.theislander@gmail.com or tweet @MissManors.

Dear Miss Manors,

Across

Down

1. Raucous flier 4. Crones 8. A little lower 12. Be in hock 13. Blue-pencil 14. At all times 15. Cheerily 17. Refer to 18. Husky burden 19. Center 20. Scenery chewers 23. Riot 25. In conflict with, with “of” 27. Drops on blades 28. Go on and on 31. Collar folds 33. Peek 35. Smelter input 36. “___ la la!” 38. Hardly worth mentioning 39. Asian starling 41. ___ milk 42. Went back and forth 45. Back 47. Ostrich-like birds 48. Chests of drawers 52. Concert equipment 53. Munitions 54. Seek the affection of 55. Pink-cheeked 56. 100 centavos 57. Crux

1. Nudge 2. Leave widemouthed 3. Japanese capital 4. Cure 5. Freud contemporary 6. Richly embellished 7. Pig’s digs 8. Rhodes of Rhodesia 9. Keen 10. Reply to “Shall we?” 11. Guitar part 16. It’s debatable 19. Whimpers 20. Ring 21. A long way off 22. Brood 24. Implore 26. Bridges in movies 28. Bite like a beaver 29. Bad spots? 30. “All ___ are off!” 32. Junior, e.g. 34. Sharp 37. Zimbabwe’s capital 39. Not well-groomed 40. Directs 42. Juicy fruit 43. Bullets and such 44. Coffeehouse orders 46. Too 48. Phone bug 49. Part of B.Y.O.B. 50. “___ rang?” 51. Weep

I just moved to Wilton Manors, and I have lots of questions about life in South Florida. The first is about those giant lizards hanging around in trees, parking lots, and just about everywhere else I go. They seem nice enough, and I know people keep them as pets. So, I’m just wondering if iguanas bite?

Thanks, Iguana-Curious Dear Iguana-Curious, Anything with a mouth can bite. The most polite of us will ask first (I always do). However, it’s important to remember that no matter how docile or domesticated an iguana may seem, it is still a wild thing. So, unless you want to end up on an unfortunate episode of When Iguanas Attack, you should avoid feeding, trying to pet, or messing around with iguanas in general. If you happen to be friends with an iguana-phile who insists on you interacting with their reptilian companion, just use caution or leather gloves to avoid an unsavory encounter with their serrated chompers.

Dear Miss Manors, Do you have any suggestions for a single girl living in Wilton Manors and looking for the man of her dreams?

Sincerely, Single in the Island City Dear Single, Get thee to a demographically favorable area! Look, most single women have secret dreams of entering a platonic marriage with Isaac Mizrahi or Anderson Cooper, doing the Sunday New York Times crossword together, throwing legendary dinner parties, and secretly banging the pool guy during business hours.

No one begrudges you that fantasy. Although at some point, we have to wake up and realize that guys like Isaac Mizrahi and Anderson Cooper just aren’t that into us. The good news is that as an Islander, you aren’t far from places flush with eligible bachelors who might be that into you. There’s Fort Lauderdale, Miami---and if you’re really ready for a long-term relationship, there are a lot of ladies up in Boca who have really nice, single sons on the partner track at the firm.

Dear Miss Manors, My boyfriend and I have been together for 5 wonderful years. He is a hard worker, we just bought a house together, and my family loves him. He does little things for me every day to let me know he cares. Everything is perfect about him excepting one thing. He is a horrible gift-giver. Every holiday, birthday, and anniversary I put time, energy, and effort into his gifts while I get what I think are last-minute drugstore buys or gift cards. Most of the time, I feel appreciated but during these special times I can’t help but feel disappointed. What should I do?

Sincerely, Disappointed in Wilton Manors Dear Disappointed, Were you listening to yourself when you wrote this letter? This guy has a job, has helped buy a house, and passed the family test! If a little negligence on holidays is the worst thing you ever experience in this relationship, you can count yourself lucky. It’s been 5 “wonderful” years together, so I assume you’ve already tried everything from hinting around at what you’d like to writing out lists of things for him to choose from for you. Maybe he’s too busy to care, maybe holidays weren’t a big part of his childhood, maybe it’s time to adjust expectations around these “special” days. Take the pressure of giving gifts off both of you and just stop with the gifts. You resent giving them, and he’s no good at it! If you find someone who fulfills you on just about every level, isn’t every day special?

Do you have a question for Miss Manors? Email them to missmanors.theislander@gmail.com or tweet @MissManors.

June 2014

The Islander

The Winners

Continued from page 1

Wells Fargo Advisors receive their trophy.

The Islanders Racing Team cheer on their teamates as they cross the finish line

The Blazing Paddles accept the throphy for finishing 1st in the Coed Divison.

Team WAWM refused to show their faces after finishing in last place.

Mickel Park CROSSWORD SOLUTION Crossword puzzle on page 13

Westside of Wilton Manors neighborhood association, urged officials to revamp the park as fast as possible. Plans to redevelop Mickel Field, which currently has two baseball diamonds, could cost about $2 million. They include estate-style fencing, a walking trail, bocce ball court, racquetball, court, volleyball court, exercise stations and an amphitheatre that could be used for small concerts. The plans will have to be approved by city commissioners first though and it seems likely that some ideas could be cut from the final project. Members of the public are invited to provide input on the project on Tuesday, June 3 at 6:30 p.m. at Hagen Park, 2020 Wilton Drive. The possible chopping block list could include the bocce ball and racquetball courts – one resident questioned how often they would be used – and the amphitheatre. Commissioner Tom Green said he was nervous the park could become too popular and neighbors would deal with traffic and parking problems that would ensue. To make room for these facilities, the small baseball diamond would be removed and the children’s playground would be relocated. The planned addition of a police substation seems to be something everyone

Continued from page 1

wants though because an increased police presence would most likely contribute to a reduction in crime at Mickel. Residents and commissioners also agreed that something, even if it’s not a full makeover, needs to be done. “It really has fallen into disrepair,” said Mayor Gary Resnick. Paying for everything though is going to be something a little bit harder to agree on. To raise the $2 million in proposed improvements, the city could pull from various sources: a bond issue, grants, impact fees, tax dollars or it could borrow money directly from a bank. Bob Mays, finance director, suggested a combination off all those options could be used to fund the project; $100,000 has already been budgeted by the city for improvements. Commissioners seemed hesitant to borrow the money though. Said one resident to The Islander before the meeting, “They could have used the money they spent on those properties next to Hagen and we’d have more money for Mickel.” Last year, commissioners spent $390,000 to buy two residential properties next to Hagen Park. The properties were purchased with an eye towards the future expansion of Hagen but commissioners don’t know yet how they will be used.

June 2014

The Islander

Home Sweet Hut 2014 Island Real Estate Update BY THE ISLAND REAL ESTATE INSIDER

Wilton Manors Single Family Residences • 61 Houses have been sold in Wilton Manors since the beginning of the year. • Avg. Sales Price of $391,000 which was 95% of List Price. Home sale prices ranged from $140,000 to $900,000. • Average Days on Market was 86 days.

1916 Coral Gardens Drive Wilton Manors SOLD $415,000

2017 NE 7TH Avenue Wilton Manors SOLD $660,000

Wilton Manors Condos/Townhouses • 55 Condos/Townhouses were sold in Wilton Manors since the beginning of the year. • Avg. Sales Price of $212,511 which was 96% of List Price. Condo and Townhouse prices ranged from $62,000 to 416,000. • Average Days on Market was 76 days.

Here is a list of recent sales: 124 NE 19th Ct APT 215B, Wilton Manors Sold: $65,000, 435 sq ft lot 1 bed, 1.0 bath, 750 sq ft, Built in 1970 2517 NE 19th Ave, Wilton Manors SOLD $348,000, 2 Beds, 2 Baths 1951 NE 2nd Ave # 208-I, Wilton Manors Sold: $155,000 3 beds, 2.0 baths, 1,730 sq ft, 7,001 sq ft lot Built in 1956

816 NE 28th Street, Wilton Manors SOLD $275,000

1806 NE 20th Street Poinsettia Heights SOLD $401,000

333 NE 28th Dr, Wilton Manors Sold: $290,600 2 beds, 2.0 baths, 1,562 sq ft, 8,052 sq ft lot Built in 1954 812 NE 28th St, Wilton Manors Sold: $314,000 2 beds, 2.5 baths, 1,766 sq ft, 1,686 sq ft lot Built in 2005 820 NE 28th St APT 4, Wilton Manors Sold: $126,500 2 beds, 1.0 bath, 683 sqft Built in 1975 2440 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors Sold: $950,000 2 beds, 1.5 baths, 1,160 sq ft

2012 NE 17th Terrace Poinsettia Heights SOLD $550,000

Built in 1973 233 NE 21st Ct, Wilton Manors Sold: $890,000, Price/sq ft: $285 905 NE 28th St APT 206, Wilton Manors Sold: $110,000, Price/sq ft: $177 2 beds, 1.5 baths, 620 sq ft Built in 1979 501 NW 21st St, Wilton Manors Sold: $338,143 3 beds, 2.0 baths, 1,730 sq ft, 7,001 sq ft lot Built in 1956 641 NW 29th St, Wilton Manors Sold: $500,000 1.57 ac lot Built in 1954

2017 NE 21st Ct, Wilton Manors Sold: $540,000 3 beds, 2.0 baths, 2,845 sq ft, 8,145 sq ft lot Built in 1962 2701 NE 2nd Ave, Wilton Manors SOLD $675,000 3 Beds, 2 baths 2000 NE 27th Street, Wilton Manors SOLD $474,000 2 Beds, 2 Baths 2816 NE 10th Terrace, Wilton Manors SOLD $405,000 3 Beds, 3 baths 2949 NE 1st Ave, Wilton Manors SOLD $370,000 3 beds, 2 baths 2617 NW 6th Ave, Wilton Manors SOLD $290,000 4 Beds, 2 bath 1710 NE 27th DR, Wilton Manors SOLD $292,337 3 Beds, 2 bath 708 NE 21st Drive, Wilton Manors SOLD $310,000 3 beds, 2 bath 1426 NE 17th Ave, Wilton Manors SOLD $485,000 4 beds, 3 bath 1508 NE 17th Ave, Wilton Manors SOLD $352,000 3 Beds, 2 bath 1441 NE 17th Way, Wilton Manors SOLD $269,000 2 Beds, 1 Bath 1512 NE 18th St, Wilton Manors SOLD $255,000 2 Beds, 1 bath

* Based on info from the Greater Fort Lauderdale realtors and from solicitation of area realtors

The Local Real Estate Market is Hot! Thinking of buying? Selling? Now is the time! Wilton Manors continues to show its desirability to both local and new arrivals alike.Offering the excitement of a city with the essence of a village. Single family home prices continue to rise. What is your home’s value? Contact us for a market analysis of your home and neighborhood. Lance Zerega, Broker Associate Gabrielle DiTommaso, Sales Associate Douglas A. Sibert, Sales Associate.

Visit us online at:

www.TeamZDS.com Or call us:

(954) 440-2300

June 2014

The Islander

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