December 2014 • FREE FREE Volume Vo V lume 1 • Issue Issue 7
de… Inside…
5 Points PPooints i of o View Viiew e ............. ...........3
Island Is land RRituals.............. itituals 1122
Askk Miss As Miss i Manors Manors ........ . .. ..1 188
IIsland sland Social So ial Sc Scene Scene.....1 100
CoCoupons Co Coupons ................. . . .. .. ..1 166
My W Wilton ilton Manors Manors .........5
Dig i IIn!........................... n!! ...........................7
Over the Bridge ..........1 133
Here’s Here ’ss My My Card Card........... ...........1 144
Police oli Blotter Blotter ................4
www.IslanderNewspaper.com www. Isla ande derNe ewspaper.com pape o
THE NEIGHBORHOOD GHBORHOOD G GHB BOR ORHOO OOD D NEWSPAPER NEWSPAP PAPER R OF OF
Wilton Manors
Local man appears on Jeopardy! “Alex, please welcome our next contestant from Wilton Manors, Florida. He’s a self employed employee benefits consultant who has lived in the Island City since 2010. Let’s Welcome Alan Hait!” Local resident Alan Hait has been watching the TV Game Show Jeopardy since the original show debuted in 1964. Even as a kid he was fascinated with the show from day one and not only became a fan butt dreamed of one day competing on y the show. Alan’s dreams have finally come true. Hait, who bought his home in Wilton Manors in 2005, entered an online Jeopardy Contestant search last year. Hait said that the online test was the hardest test he had ever taken…and he’s a Wharton School Graduate!. Not long after the test, Alan was invited to Miami for an in- person try out and to play a mock game on a mock Jeopardy Set. Last month he was flown out to Hollywood, California for his appearance on the TV Game Show. Hait is the first contestant to appear on the show who hails from Wilton Manors. “It was a memorable experience,” Hait said. “Everyone was so friendly and helpful. I made friends with the other contestants, the show’s coordinators were very helpful and I enjoyed it immensely.” Asked how he
See Jeopardy on page 9
Is Wilto Wilton ton Manors, Ma s, Poinse Poinsettia Poi setti tia Heights, igh s, Lake Ridge and Oakland Park the new Real Estate Mecca for Investors? Uh Oh, here we go again. The real estate Boom is back in Wilton Manors but it’s not just an Island City phenomenon. Poinsettia Heights is quickly becoming the new Rio Vista of Broward County. Investors are gobbling up older dilapidated homes and duplexes in Lake Ridge like it was 1964 and the movie ’Where the Boys Are’ was just released. Suddenly the area around Ft. Lauderdale High School is in demand. And Oakland Park, especially the Andrews Gardens area is an investors dream. Why now? Why this area? Does this mean another collapse is just around the corner? According to John Williams of The Lampo Group, The Wilton Manors area is desirable not just because property is relatively cheap but because it just a few blocks from the beach. “There was a day when living East of Federal Highway was the status symbol of residential living but today even the wealthy are finding that too expensive an area to purchase a home and invest in. Poinsettia Heights, Wilton Manors, Oakland Park and especially Lake Ridge are currently an investors dream. Many homes are still inexpensive, many have waterfront access and many of these homes, though they may need work,
are ar ec considered onsider de ered cl close ose to the th he b beach each an and nd an excellent buy. In many other states homes ,located this close to the ocean are called vacation homes” If you look deep into the numbers, the 10% rise in property values of Wilton Manors really isn’t the big story. Poinsettia Heights is red hot in the real estate world of Broward County. Home values are actually outpacing Wilton Manors. Poinsettia Heights property values are rising at a fever pace. Home Remodelers are seen on nearly every street. Poinsettia Heights is the new place to be seen. Poinsettia Heights is the new ‘Must Place to Live.’
Oakland Park, from Coral Shores to Andrews Garden is a house flippers dream. N Nearby Lake Ridge is filled with seedy older apartments and run down homes but take a drive off 13th Avenue and your eyes will widen quickly. Sold signs are popping up everywhere. Investors are buying up these homes
one on ea after ft fte ter another another and an and it i all al has ha as to do with turning what once was a drug running hood into a neighborhood. How did this happen? Simple: The City of Fort Lauderdale blocked every road access off Sunrise Boulevard. No more cutters, no more speeders and no more residential traffic concerns. Lake Ridge is just a mile from the sandy shores of A!A, just a block off Federal Highway and is now called desirable real estate. Oakland Park, from Coral Shores to Andrews Garden is a house flippers dream. Many of these 1960’s homes have fallen into disarray and are selling cheap. Who’s buying? There’s a lot of California Transplants moving here and to them, paying $150,000 for a small home is cheap. These California transplants did not leave the West Coast because they hated California. They left because it became too expensive to live there and South Florida is much less expensive to live and to buy. Putting another $100,000 into renovating and updating a home is still cheaper than L.A. or San Francisco. Move East Young Man! Is our area the next Northern Virginia real estate explosion in America? The next Harlem? The next San Francisco? The nest North Dakota? Maybe and Real estate experts are warning that you should buy now before it’s too expensive to live East of Powerline!
For sale examples see Homes page 6
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December 2014
The Islander
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December 2014
The Islander
5 Points of View
Opinions, comments, rants & raves
Let’s join the 21st Century and bury utility lines I recently read that Pompano Beach is paying for all utility lines to be buried in the city when their roads are being renovated. I believe it’s time for Wilton Manors to do the same. With state funds heading our way to renovate and revitalize Dixie Highway I feel that the property owners along Dixie Highway will approve and pay for the burying of these lines under a 'special taxing district' provision. I have spoken with several Dixie Highway property owners and we feel that the burying of the utility lines will be an improvement to the Dixie Highway corridor and ultimately have a positive effect to increase property values and thus increase the tax revenues to the city of Wilton Manors. Since we may eventually get a train platform this will also help beautify the area. I am NOT asking the city to invest any money for this endeavor, but I am asking that the City Assist us to be able to pay for this improvement to the city. It can easily be done and help pave the way for Dixie Highway to become a magnet for new business.
— Local Businessman Whistling Dixie
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 Advertising Executive .......Sheryl Chesler Editorial Staff....................... Edwin Nelson ............................................ Jessica Chesler ................................................... Albert Raff Art Direction.................Jim Pollard Design
Vice Mayor Carson asleep at the wheel!
Sidewalks are for walking!
Obviously, Vice Mayor Julie Carson must not live over here on the Westside or she would know that there is a panhandling problem at the Red Lights and at Intersections. But in a recent Commission Vote to make it illegal to panhandle within 200 feet of intersections, Vice Mayor Carson voted ‘NO’. Thank Goodness the Mayor and the others on City Commission heeded The Police recommendations and voted ‘YES’. It was a 4-1 vote to stop the panhandlers who have been congregating on a road sides MORE AND MORE every day. It amazes me that our Vice Mayor would actually vote no on such an important issue that concerns our safety as well as the safety of the homeless who run out into the street with squeegees to wash your windshields for a quick buck. Every possible ordinance and law that prevents this problem is necessary. What in the world was she thinking? Maybe she believes that homeless people congregating on bus benches drinking malt liquor is a plus and will help increase the property values of Wilton Manors. Geez, Does she even live here?
It’s called a sidewalk… not a side bike alley. I wish the city would install signs informing bikers that they are required to use the bike lanes. Every day when walking the dogs I have to constantly be on guard for people who think the sidewalks are for bicycles. Maybe get a beat cop to walk the sidewalks and give out a few tickets to bicyclist on the sidewalks and install signs. Please do not wait for someone to get hurt by a bicyclist on the sidewalk.
— Begging for Peace and Quiet at the Intersection
Traffic is coming! Traffic is coming!
Drive of death No, this letter isn’t about a new horror movie. It’s about one of the most dangerous roads to cross at night. Wilton Drive: The Drive of Death. Once again, another resident, a very good man, has been killed crossing Wilton Drive. Wilton Drive is a dangerous combination of speeders, jaywalkers, too few street lights, little police presence and the combination of drunk revelers crossing a dimly lit street. Something must be done. The whining of City Hall that it has no funds to improve traffic safety has to end. Someone must step forward before another hit and run fatality occurs in our city. We need our police to set up speed traps, not blinking signs stating your MPH. We need a few more red lights to slow cars down. We need more well lit pedestrian crossing lanes like they have placed along A1A. And we need the police to vigorously ticket anyone seen jaywalking!
The street sign may read NE 24th Street but it may as well say I-95 if you live on this street. It’s getting busier and busier every day. Cutters, Speeders and Parking for the Eucalyptus Gardens is causing us, the residents of NE 24th Street, to scream “ENOUGH!” And it’s only going to get worse. And Worse. And WORSE! Soon we will have a new 175 Unit Complex at the old trailer park and now there are plans for another development at the church lot. What are we going to do? We have no red lights at either Dixie or 15th. We have no speed humps or stop signs to stop the cutter madness. We now have no more peace and quiet which is why we bought on this street in the first place. When is enough development, enough? Something has to be done. Please.
— Never Planned to Live Along a Highway
— Road Raged Resident 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 33334.
— Joe and Rover
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December 2014
The Islander
Police Blotter Jonathan Brown, 72, of Fort Lauderdale was arrested by Officer Havemann and charged with Lewd and Lascivious Behavior after the he allegedly touched and rubbed a 12 year old minor’s breast and attempted to kiss her in the jurisdiction of Wilton Manors. Christopher M. Hunter, 41, of Cooper City was arrested by Officer Loughran and charged with Disorderly Conduct after the officer witnessed the defendant urinating in public on the bumper of a vehicle during the Wicked Manors Halloween Festival. Carlos Del Valle, 51, of Wilton Manors was observed by Publix Store Security attempting to leave the premises with a package of strip steaks without paying. Del Valle was charged with Petty Theft. Shannon Canada, 45, of Tamarac was charged by Officer Salas with Petty Theft after she placed an online order at Publix for a Whole American Sub and a container of Deluxe Seafood Salad. The defendant then came to the store, picked up her order and attempted to leave without paying. James Feeney, 58, of Ft Lauderdale was observed by Officer Ramirez approaching vehicles in the 3000 Block of NW 9th Avenue with a cleaning device and attempting to solicit his car windshield cleaning business. Feeney was charged with Obstruction of Traffic. After being stopped for driving 50 MPH in a 30 MPH Zone, Officer Havemann pulled over Donaldson E. Lambert, 19, of Wilton Manors. The officer observed the odor of marijuana omitting for the vehicle and a subsequent search of the car revealed a metal grinder containing a green leafy substance that field tested
positive for Cannabis. Lambert was charged with Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Van Arthur Otis Diamond Starr, 28, of Fort Lauderdale was arrested and charged by Officer Havemenn at The Village Pub on Wilton Drive after Starr allegedly damaged a bar stool and punched and kicked another person in the estbalishment. Starr was charged with Battery and Criminal Mischief. Frances Joyliss Howell, 25, of Lauderhill was arrested by Officer Cox and charged with Aggravated Assault after an argument with her boyfriend on a Transit Bus. Howell admitted to stabbing her boyfriend in the abdomen with a four inch knife after the victim allegedly punched her repeatedly in the face. Justin Jarvis Thomas, 24, of Ft Lauderdale was charged with Battery and Resisting an officer occurring during the same argument. Shawn R. Bertram, 35, of Oakland Park was arrested and charged with Petty Theft after he removed $23.40 worth of groceries from the shelves at Publix Super Market and place them in a black bag. The defendant then walked past the registers and out the door without paying. After running a stop Sign on Dixie Highway, Officer Loughran pulled over Guillermo Gil Suarez, 23, of Ft Lauderdale. The Officer could smell a strong odor of alcohol on the driver and noticed his eyes were bloodshot. His speech was slurred. After failed a field sobriety test, Suarez was charged with DUI and Running a Stop Sign. After observing a person riding a bicycle at night with no lights along Andrews Avenue, Officer Havemann turned on his flashing lights and sirens to pull the bicyclist over. The
bike rider continued to pedal and then weaved, trying to elude the police car. The Officer observed the bicyclist dropping three clear plastic bags into a puddle along the curb. Jeffrey Leroy Reese, 26, of Oakland Park was charged with Possession of Cocaine, resisting an Officer, Destroying Evidence and Riding a Bike with no Lights. Noel A. Bello, 57, of Wilton Manors was arrested and charged with Marijuana Possession and Having an Open Container of Alcohol after the defendant was found sleeping on a bus bench on NW 9th Avenue by Officer Keesling. Nichola Paul Benton, 32, of Wilton Manors was pulled over by Officer Lee along NE 26th Street in Wilton Manors for driving with no headlights and speeding. As the officer approached the vehicle a clear plastic bag was seen on the passenger set. The baggie contained seven clear capsules with a white rock like substance in each. After a further investigation the defendant was charged with Possession of Ecstasy and Speeding. James Carl Redding, 36. Of Fort Lauderdale was arrested and charged by Officer Newton after the defendant allegedly broke onto the premises of Drive Bar on Wilton Drive while the bar was closed. The defendant is accused of climbing the fence of the now closed bar, removing his clothes till he was completely naked and then masturbating while drinking a Yuengling Beer. Before the police arrived the defendant fled the scene but left behind his beer and his IPhone. Using the Siri feature on the phone, Officer Newton traced the owners name and address. The defendant was located walking along N. Dixie Highway. When asked why he was naked inside the Drive Bar the defendant said “prove it! You don’t have nothing.” Redding was charged with Disorderly Intoxication and Prowling. After being pulled over for speeding along Andrews Avenue, Charles Sherwood Tarr, 26, of Ft Lauderdale was arrested and charged with Possession with Intent to Sell Cannabis, Possession with Intent to Sell Alpralozam, Possession with Intent to Sell Cocaine and Unlawful Speeding after K-9 Digo discovered 77 grams of Marijuana, 7 grams of Cocaine and 13 Alprazolam pills. Larell Rashon Barber, 41, was arrested by Officer Lee at 2000 Wilton Drive and charged with Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after a search of the defendant’s bag produced a homemade crack cocaine pipe and residue of crack cocaine. Ivorie Lenell Walcott, 36, of Ft Lauderdale was arrested by Detective Owens and charged with Larceny, Grand Theft and Resisting Arrest after he used a pair of bolt cutters to cut the lock of a bike valued at over $1000 which was in a bicycle rack in front of CSL Plasma Blood Bank on Andrews Avenue. The incident was captured via closed circuit cameras. Walcott attempted to flee police on foot,
jumped a fence and continued to ignore officers warnings. He was caught hiding in a backyard on NW 3rd Avenue. The defendant is suspected in multiple bicycle thefts in the area. Kadeem Anthony Saddoo, 23, of Lauderhill was arrested by Officer Rios and charged with breaking into a vehicle in The Publix Shopping Center Parking Lot and stealing an IPhone, $9 in cash, a food stamp card, a $10 Chic Filet Gift Card and a Credit Card. The defendant was charged with Burglary. Fabia Antwaun Chambers, 23, of Lauderdale Lakes was charged with Grand Theft, Resisting an Officer, Reckless Driving and Driving on a Suspended License after the defendant allegedly stole a 2014 Nissan Altima from in front of the 7-11 on Andrews Avenue. After Police caught up with the fleeing suspect in the stolen vehicle, he attempted to elude police while refusing to pull over. After leaving Hunters Lounge on Wilton Drive with another patron, William Lathon Petter, 31, of Wilton Manors was arrested and charged by Detective Turner after the defendant allegedly struck the victim in the face with a closed fist while walking back to the victims residence. While the victim was on the ground the defendant then allegedly took the victims wallet and $200 in cash from his front pant pocket. Petter then fled the scene. He was charged with one count of Robbery. While on Patrol along Wilton Drive, Officer Loughran noticed Eugene Quzts, 32, Address Unknown, engaged in a hand-to-hand transaction with another male. When the defendant saw the Officer he fled the scene and when caught up with threw two bags on the ground. The officer never lost eye contact with the bags. The bags contained cocaine. Quzts was charged with Possession of Cocaine and Destroying Evidence. Larell Rashon Barber, 41, of Ft Lauderdale was arrested by Detective Pilewski and charged with Burglary and Grand Theft after the defendant allegedly entered a dwelling at 317 Northwest 26th Court and attempted to remove $5,100 worth of peoperty. Denis Maxine Joseph, 30, of Tamarac was arrested by Officer Bickhardt after she attempted to leave the Publix Supermarket with a ten pack of AAA Duracell batteries and a 16 oz. Cup of Hot Soup without paying. Joseph was charged with Petty Theft. Erika Lee Kennedy, 27, of Wilton Manors was arrested by Officer Ferguson after the defendant aentered the Value Pawn Shop, gave a false identification and received money for goods that were previously stolen. Kennedy was charged with Dealing in Stolen Property, Fraud, Grand Theft and Burglary.
December 2014
The Islander
My Wilton Manors
Photos from the natives
Retro days of video Missing the days of Blockbuster and West Coast Video? Looking for that old Grace Slick Vinyl Album as a Christmas Gift? Little Tommy wants a collectible Star Wars Phaser for Christmas? Then Retro Video at 2420 Dixie Highway in Wilton Manors is your place to shop. Retro Video is a wall to wall paradise for video rentals, hard to find DVD’s, classic toys, Vinyl Albums and more. Relive those days of yesteryear at Retro Video.
Yogi’s Night Out It’s Yogi’s Night Out the Third Saturday of each month at Eucalyptus Gardens. Come out and relax with the Yogis of Bombay Power Yoga. It’s just $25 for one hour of power yoga and one hour of deep stretching and meditation. See you December 20th.
Thanks for giving The Wilton Manors Kiwanis Club is pictured packing up 55 Thanksgiving Holiday Food Packages for needy families of Wilton Manors. With the support of the community and donations for many local residents, Kiwanis members dropped off Turkeys, stuffing and desserts for many families who would have gone without.
Driving Miss Daisy Someone was Driving Miss Daisy to the Classic Car Show held bi-monthly in front of Georgie’s Alibi. The classic car collectors of the Flamingo Auto Club of South Florida will be showing off their babies once a month in the parking lot at Georgie’s Alibi on Wilton Drive. Come on over, You may be able to get your hands on a baby blue Park Lane for just under $15,000.
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December 2014
Homes
The Islander
from pg. 1
SOLD Wilton Manors 309 NE 20th Street • $616,0000
SOLD Poinsettia Heights 31638 Poinsettia Drive • $388,500
SOLD Lake Ridge 1751 NE 12th Street • $450,000
Protecting your home with Pallant Insurance When you're shopping for homeowners insurance, some questions may come arise as to just how much coverage you may need and maybe even, Is home insurance really necessary? Home owners will find the answers to these nagging insurance questions at The Pallant Insurance Agency of Wilton Manors where their motto is Better Safe than Sorry! Pallant Insurance believes Insuring your biggest investment is important. They specialize in Home Owners Insurance. They know the in and outs of insuring a home in Wilton Manors, Oakland Park and Fort Lauderdale. Your home is your biggest investment. Unlike cars, which depreciate the minute you drive them off the lot, houses typically increase in value over time. Sure, the market ebbs and flows, and during times of recession it can seem as though house prices will never bounce back. But the South Florida housing market is making a comeback. From a long-term perspective, owning a home is a financial investment that can ensure your security in years to come. Having an insurance policy in place to protect that investment should be at the top of your list of priorities An active home insurance policy brings peace of mind. Can you really put a price tag on peace of mind? Having a home insurance policy won't prevent random acts of nature, but it does put a safety net between you and catastrophe. As long as you have that in place, you can rest assured that you'll be better equipped to weather a storm or crisis.
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December 2014
The Islander
Dig In!
Dining on the Drive Le Patio
grilled Swiss cheese on top, and served on a bed of greens’. The Spinach Ravioli ($14.95) is stuffed with spinach and ricotta cheese topped with a special Niçoise sauce and mozzarella. The portions are generous enough to share, but there is a sharing fee of $10. Wine comes by the glass for around $7 a glass and the by the bottle from $27 for the house Cabernet Sauvignon to $38 for La Côte Blanche Villages Màcon.
If I were to apply a cliché to a description of Le Patio, it might be the aphorism that sometimes the best things come in small packages. Americans typically have one of two reactions to French restaurants: ‘Oh là là’ or ‘Ewww, snails.’ But Le Patio is not just a French restaurant. Although you will find escargot on the menu, you will find some serious taste and comfort in any of the well-done standard dishes that includes, of all things, quesadillas.
The Verdict
The Place Owners Jean Doherty and Vero Leroux have brought the European charm of the small café/eatery to America where portion and space expectations are set by the likes of places like The Cheesecake Factory. In case you can’t tell from the menu (more about that later), Doherty is from Dublin and Leroux is from France where the couple met. This is not the first restaurant they’ve owned and operated together, but it is one that hits the spot with Islanders. It is the sort of place that lacks pretension and provides for the luxury of lingering meals and conversation. No one is bustling you out the door so another table can be hustled.
There is some seating inside, but the covered patio of Le Patio is an intimate space with wrought iron chairs that invite patrons to enjoy a glass of wine, good food, and talk about life for as long as you want. Speaking of good food....
The Food The French-Irish connection plays out in menu items like the Cheese Slate ($19.95) with French Brie, Sharp Irish Cheddar, Fresh Goat’s and Bleu cheeses served with walnuts and fresh fruits. There’s also a French Onion soup ($4.85) and the Escargot de Bourgogne
($15.50). For starters you can share the fresh, simple Tomatoes a la Provençal ($8.95). Then you can move on to the Real Irish Shepherd's Pie ($14.95). Choose from a variety of $14 salads like the Roasted Goat Cheese with thick croutons served warm on a bed of mixed greens and haricot verts or the Chicken and Avocado, organic chicken breast poached to order served with mixed greens, tomato, and avocado. You can also get American favorites with a twist like the Chicken Quesadilla ($15.95) described as a ‘perfectly poached organic Breast of chicken with melted cheddar inside; finished with
Don’t go to Le Patio to see or be seen. Your convertible and Gucci glasses don’t matter there. Le Patio is the kind of eatery you find several of in any European neighborhood. It’s about the people who are sitting next to you and across from you, and the conversation you might have with them. It is about eating good, familiar food. The antifancy fare is something you would find on your grandmère’s or mother’s table (truth be told, probably better than you would find on those tables depending on who your mother is).
Le Patio
Location: 2401 NE 11th Ave, Wilton Manors Phone: 954-530-4641 Web: www.lepatiowiltonmanors.com Hours: Closed on Mondays Lunch 11:30am-2:00pm Open for dinner at 5:30pm.
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December 2014
The Islander
Welcome to Wilton Manor’s Newest Eatery!
Stop in for Hobo’s
Sunday Breakfast Brunch Buffet Includes over a dozen items…
14
$
50
❋ Omelet to Order ❋ Peel & Eat Shrimp Includes tax ❋ Herb-Crusted Talapia 11am to 2pm ❋ Roast Pork Loin We are open daily at ❋ Rosemary Garlic Chicken 11am serving Breakfast, ❋ Oriental Veggie Stir Fry Lunch and Dinner ! …Includes one complimentary Mimosa or Bloody Mary!
Here’s what the locals are saying about Hobo’s Grill: “The freshest chicken tenders I’ve ever had!”
— J.D., Wilton Manors
“The food here at Hobos is crazy good. My partner wants to steal the recipe for their Gouda Mac & Cheese Bites and I’m hooked on Hobo’s Blacked Salmon Caesar Salad.”
— Eddie and Sam, Wilton Manors
“The alligator bites with apricot plum sauce are a must try. We never imagined we’d like alligator but now we love it.”
— Sharon & Cindy, Pompano
“Good drinks, good fun and good burgers. The Hobo Burger with garlic, mushrooms and bacon is now on my best burger list. So good.”
— Tim, Oakland Park
2426 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors ❋ 954-551-7385
Good Morning, Wilton Manors
TAP 42 brunch JESSICA CHESLER
Brunch has long been a popular weekend activity, but it’s recently come under fire. You don’t have to go farther than the titles of these anti-brunch articles to get a gist of the general sentiment. Last Month, David Shaftel declared that “Brunch Is For Jerks” in The New York Times. In that same treatise against the portmanteau meal, Shaftel mentions Shawn Micallef (a Canadian) who has written an entire book on the matter entitled, “The Trouble with Brunch.” Then there’s “5 Reasons Brunch is Overrated” by Carina Ost in the Miami New Times, and the very direct Kelly Carter’s “I Hate Brunch” for Refinery29.com. Brunch stands accused of many crimes: torturing the hungry with long lines for not-so-great food, providing yet another vapid space for hungover hip young things to show themselves off to other hungover hip young things, and--worst of all--serving weak, overpriced drinks. For some time now, I’ve been wanting to find out which of these crimes were being committed or avoided at Tap 42. The Tap 42 Brunch has become somewhat famous and called me out of the Island City to see what all the fuss was about. The first attempt at the Tap 42 Brunch ended at Shawn & Nick’s Courtyard Cafe. The brunching hour at Tap begins at 11:00 am, but the line starts forming around a half hour before. My friend Nicole and I arrived around noon only to be told of an hour long wait. That simply wouldn’t do. The second attempt was even less successful as I couldn’t rouse anyone out of bed to go with me, and solo brunching is just too sad. However, the third time was a charm as I convinced my friend and fellow foodie Jonathan Eubanks to finally try it out. He’s a native Fort Lauderdalien and a real estate agent, so he spent most of the time telling me about how the hip gastropub that lures brunchers with bottomless drinks used to be the site of the famous Brownie’s Bar & Liquor Store. We had plenty of time to talk about that since we queued up to a very long line at 10:45 and weren’t seated until 11:30. But once settled in at the bar, it was easy to see that Tap 42 knows what brunch is about: the alcohol. Long before the food was served, the bartenders made sure that everyone had a drink in their hands- because at brunch, everyone is okay as long as they have a drink in their hands. For a mere $15, patrons can sip on mimosas, a Bloody Mary (or several), or a choice of three beers limited in quantity only to what you’re able to consume from the time you sit down to the end of brunch at 3:00 PM. They also know what brunch shouldn’t be about: a buffet. The menu offers an abbreviated array of dishes from their regular menu like the Beer Battered Fish & Chips ($15.50) and the Prohibition Burger ($12.50) along with
appetizers like the Skillet Spinach & Artichoke Dip ($9.50) or Crispy Asian Calamari ($11.50). On the breakfast side of things, they offer a Green Eggs & Ham Benedict ($14) which consists of Angry Orchard Cider pulled pork, bacon-cheddar toast, sunny side up eggs, Hollandaise, and salsa verde. Not ordering the White Chocolate Strawberry Pancakes ($12) would be a mistake. They arrive like a fluffy, buttery heaven in a stack three cakes high, one plate wide and generously endowed with macerated strawberries, vanilla whipped cream, and half-melted white chocolate chips. It felt like my birthday. I also tried something called The Hangover ($13). Touted as “The Ultimate Breakfast Sandwich,” The Hangover combines the brunch staple scrambled eggs with chicken apple sausage and white cheddar cheese between burger bun French Toast and a side of fries. This is where it would have been helpful to remember that it’s usually Opposite Day when superlatives like “Best”, “Top”, and “Ultimate” are employed. This sandwich was anything but ultimate. The eggs and cheddar did nothing to cut the sugary bun that clashed with the sweetness of the sausage--and it would be the last thing I would want to eat if I were hungover. Everyone else must have known something that I didn’t. Looking around, it seemed like almost everyone around me was getting the Chicago Style Steak & Eggs ($16), a grilled skirt steak with creamy garlic spinach, classic hash browns, and two sunny side up eggs. It would have been in front of me next if I hadn’t been so full with pancakes and bottomless drinks. Brunchers themselves arrive in waves. If you want to be part of the first, be prepared to show up between 10:30 and 10:45 am. We got there at the end of this period, and the group behind us had to wait an hour for a table. The second wave starts taking over between 1:30 and 2:00 pm. This might make the bottomless drink deal worth it if you can get 3 drinks in before the 3:00 pm timeout. Tap 42 also makes me feel old, and it’s not because of the perfectly coiffed, hippish clientele. It’s because it’s extremely loud inside the bar--which you should avoid at all costs if you are one of the hungover. On the other hand, the boozy din is an excellent way to avoid a dull exchange with a boring brunch partner. Whether brunch is your thing or not, the Tap 42 Bottomless Brunch is worth at least one trip for the $15 endless drink refills alone. It’s worth two trips for the pancakes alone, and it’s definitely worth three trips to try the steak and eggs you should have ordered before.
Tap 42 Location: 1411 South Andrews Avenue Fort Lauderdale Phone: 954-463-4900 Web: Tap42.com Hours: Brunch Saturday & Sunday 11:00 AM-3:00 PM Follow @JessicaChesler on Twitter & Instagram
December 2014
The Islander
Sweet treat for Islanders…
JP’s Chocolate Shoppe CANDICE RUSSELL J.P. Coleigh, owner of J.P.’s Chocolate Shoppe in Wilton Manors. says business has been good since he opened one year ago. With a coterie of loyal customers, this specialist in all things sweet and delicious is gearing up for one of the busiest times of the year. The 800 square foot business is described by Coleigh as “very iniviting, warm and cozy. Our window is decorated for Christmas. I think it has a very European feel.” In the glass cases, you can find, truffles, caramels, creams, fudge, fruit and nuts covered with chocolate as well as potato chips, popcorn and pret-
Jeopardy
zels dipped iin chocolate chocolate. e. Not everything is made on site, though business partner Barry Miller is responsible for the almond bark, dipped strawberries and cookies. The rest comes from Vermont. Holiday boxes, red with bows, come in different sizes – a half-pound with sixteen pieces for $17 and a pound for thirty-two pieces at $33. What are the most popular candies in his shoppe? “Chocolate is really subjective, people have individual tastes,” says Coleigh. “But the response is great for the carrot cake truffle and the Georgia peach truffle. People also seem to like our 70 percent dark chocolate truffle. What sets apart his chocolates from those of his competitors? “They’re fresh, handmade, with no artificial preservatives,” says Coleigh. “They’re made with
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did on the show, Hait refused to answer saying he was sworn to secrecy. “I can only say that playing the game was exactly as I expected. The degree of competition and the speed of the game are exactly as you see on TV. I can’t reveal the results but it was a huge amount of fun, and I’m extremely happy with the outcome and the whole experience!” “It doesn’t matter if you’re the smartest person in the world,” Hait said, “The game is really a great deal of randomness. You never know what categories are going to pop up or what the questions may be. You don’t know in advance who you’ll be playing against. The other contestants are very accomplished and very intelligent.” Did he feel the pressure? Was he nervous? Intimidated by the Hollywood glitter and glamour? “Not at all,” Alan claimed, “Everyone was terrific. In the green room they try to relax you and they give you tips on how to stay cool once the cameras start rolling. It was one of the greatest experiences in my life. My brother flew out to be in the au-
dience and he told me that appearing on jeopardy was the greatest thing I had ever accomplished!” Hait, a Westside resident, has served on the City's Budget Review Advisory Committee (BRAC) for 2 terms and has been quite active in our community. He is an avid raiser of orchids and a classic film buff. He holds a BA in advanced Mathematics from the University of Pennsylvania and a MBA in Insurance and Management from The Wharton School. His advice to anyone out there who has dreamed of appearing on Jeopardy or any game show, “Try it. Take the test. You never know until you take the test and give it a whirl.” Hait had previously taken the on-line test to appear on Jeopardy in 2011, 2012 and 2013. The fourth time was a charm. You can take the test at www.jeopardy.com. Tune in January 6th to WPLG Local Channel 10 at 7:30 PM to see Alan Play Jeopardy and see how he does on America’s toughest TV Game Show Challenge. He’s already made Wilton Manors proud.
fresh Vermont sweet cream which is different. Some are gluten-free.” Why did he decide to open the store? Coleigh cites burnout, “I was in corporate life in New York City and I was tired of the rat race. I bought a condo here and thought, ‘Who doesn’t like chocolate? “ You can also find fine wines to pair with your chocolate choices and gourmet gift baskets. With an eye to being environmentally friendly, the business uses recycled packaging. The main challenge of the business is the dailiness and long hours.. “Also summer is much slower, so to compensate, we’re getting more corporate ac-
counts,” says Coleigh. Getting involved with the community, J.P.’s Chocolate Shoppe has given gift baskets to the Pride Center, Deliver the Dream and other charities. So what’s the secret of getting the word out? “Networking is key,” says the owner who has affiliated with the Chamber of Commerce, among other local institutions. J.P.’s Chocolate Shoppe is located at 2219 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. It is open daily from 11 .m. to 9 p.m., but Coleigh may stay open later in December. The telephone number is 954-368-5533. The web site is www.jpchocolateshoppe.com.
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The Islander
The Island City Art Walk is back and it’s bigger than ever! The Art Walk will be held along Wilton Drive the third Saturday of each month through April and will feature numerous local artists and their works. Paintings, sculptures and the unusual will all be on display from 7 pm till 10 pm. Don’t’ miss it. It’s the Island City social event of the winter.
The Aids Memorial Quilt made an appearance in Wilton Manors for World Aids Day. O and bringing awareness to the World Aids day project.
Happy Birthday Kelly Bro anniversary party at Kelly Corner of Oakland Park B was a huge success. The beers were flowing. Pictu Peter Kelly and staff cele
The 100 Plus Abandoned Dogs of Everglades Dog rescue held a Fundraiser at the Mind Your Manors Restaurant on Wilton Drive. Pictured are Everglades Dog rescuers Bella Maryanov, Jan Stenger, Carol Daniello and Amy Roman.
2163 Wilton Drive,Wilton Manors • 954.563.5631 .5631 .5 631
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December 2014
The Islander
Annual Taste of Island
It’s a was an evening of Fun, Food and Great Drinks at the Annual taste of the island food festival held at Richardson Park last month. Hundreds of Islanders turned out to try their hand at being a food critic. The event was another success and will be back next November for another fun filled year.
Over 1000 Marchers walked down Wilton Drive to the Pride Center carrying the quilt
others Irish Pub! The one year y Brothers Irish Pub at the Blvd. and Federal Highway e bar was rocking and the ured is Kelly Brothers owner ebrating in Irish Style.
Over 4500 Pounds of canned goods were collected at Mona’s Bar during their Food Drive to benefit The Pantry of Broward County. During the Month of November, local residents in the community and Patrons of Monas dropped off canned goods for the needy. The Broward Pantry said it was a record donation! Pictured at Mona’s Bar on Sunrise Boulevard is the staff of Mona’s: Billy, Cory, Sunny, Jorge, Bob, Will, and Mona’s Proprietor, Jerry.
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The Islander
Island Rituals Happenings on the island • Special Events • DECEMBER
12/10 NatureScape Classes: Coral Reef Conservation with speaker R. David Walker. 7:00pm @Wilton Manors Library
12/10 Fozzy & Texas Hippie Coalition w/ special guest Shaman’s Harvest@ Culture Room. Doors open at 7:30pm. Go to www.cultureroom.net for ticket info.
12/13 Community Yard Sale @Hagen Park 7:30am -2:00pm Call 954-390-2130 for information.
12/14 Jacob Whitesides @ Culture Room. Doors open at 7pm. Go to www.culture-
erect their Book Tent at the City Yard Sale. You will find used books, CDs, audio books, DVDs, and videos in exchange for a small donation. Top sellers range from books on tape to children’s DVDs, from cookbooks to gardening manuals. All donations benefit the Library. The Friends will also take your donations of books and audio and video materials at the Book Tent, or you may drop them off at the Library, at 500 NE 26th Street.
1/14 NatureScape Class: Zen Orchids & Tropical Plants with speaker Dan Christensen
@ Wilton Manors Public Library, 7:00pm.
1/15 Wilton Manors Historical Society Annual Meeting 7:00pm @ City Commission
room.net for ticket info.
Chambers. Visit www.wiltonmanorshistoricalsociety.org for more information.
12/20 Funky Buddha Brewery Yappy Hour is teaming up with another great Dog
1/29-4/2 Wilton Manors Police Department Citizens Police Academy
Rescue 100+ Abandoned dogs of Everglades Florida! If you donate $5 or more to the cause, you will get a wristband that is good for extended "Yappy Hour" which is $1 off all Buddha drafts inside from 2pm-6pm.
Thursdays from 6:30pm – 8:30pm. This training course will take place for 10 weeks in 2015. For further information including flyers and applications see our website: www.wiltonmanors.com/cpa
12/31 New Year’s Eve Party @ The Manor Complex Starts @9pm and features DJ
If your regular garbage pickup days are Monday & Thursday, your bulk trash days are as follows: Thursday, December 18, 2014/ Recycling Day is Thursday. If your regular garbage pickup days are Tuesday & Friday, your bulk trash days are as follows: Tuesday, December 16, 2014/ Recycling Day is Friday. If your regular garbage pickup days are Wednesday & Saturday, your bulk trash days are as follows: Wednesday, December 17, 2014/ Recycling Day is Wednesday. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please call City Hall at (954) 390-2100. Our hours of operation are 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
David Knapp, Live Times Square Simulcast, Balloon Drops, Champagne Toast, NYE party favors. General Admission. Presale $20 until Dec. 26; $25 until Dec. 30. VIP Admission: $75 until Dec. 26; $80 until Dec. 30.
JANUARY
1/10 Community Yard Sale @Hagen Park 7:30am -2:00pm Call 954-390-2130 for information.
1/10 Friends of the Library Book Sale
8:00am-2:00pm The Friends of the Library will
Wilton Manors Bulk Trash Schedule:
• Ongoing Events • Brains and Balance Past 60 Wednesdays, 10:00 AM-
11:00 AM @ Hagen Park 2020 Wilton Drive. Contact: 954390-2130. Free for Wilton Manors Residents. $3 for nonresidents. 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
December 9, 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 954563-7061 for more info.
Fire Island Tea Dance Disco & Drag Show Sundays, 6pm @ Stache
– a 1920s Drinking Den. 109 SW 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale. Call 954-4491044 for more info.
Hula Dance Class Mondays 7pm for Beginners / Tuesdays 7pm for Intermediates @ Hagen Park Community Center 2020 Wilton Drive. $35 per month/ $12 per class. Students 16 and older. For more information call 954390-2130. Island City Art Walk 3rd Saturday of each month beginning November
15th - April 18th. 7:00 - 10:00pm. Take in this 1.1 mile stretch of participating galleries, eclectic stores, cafes, boutiques, and upscale restaurants which will host over 40 artists in the Wilton Manors Art and Entertainment District along Wilton Drive. For more info visit www.islandcityartwalk.com
305-343-1710, Randy @ 305-458-1649, or Tom & Chris @ 954-525-8365
Island City Book Club 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.
Island City-Wide Yard Sales. Starting 2nd Saturday of November 2014 – May 2015, 8:00 am – 2:00pm @ Hagen Park. Free attendance for the public. For vendor information call Lesiure Services Department at 954-390-2115 or 954-390-2130. Israeli Dance Thursdays 7pm-9pm @ Hagen
Park 2020 Wilton Drive. $7 per person. Come out and enjoy beginner Israeli dance. The program includes great middle eastern music featuring the latest/best choreography and songs that will lift your spirit and touch your heart. For more information please call Dan at (808) 280-1051.
Jazz on the Square. Every Friday @ 6:30 pm,
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Commercial Boulevard & A1A. Enjoy free live music and dancing while or after dinner at any of the great dining establishments. Call 954-776-5092 for more information.
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!
Oakland Park Discovery Farm Marketplace Every Wednesday from 4:00 –
8:00pm at Jaco Pastorius Park, 4000 N. Dixie Hwy just north of Oakland Park Blvd. Join us for “Happy Hour at the Farm” with music, beer & wine, and vendors offering local produce, homemade prepared foods, handcrafted items, & more! Call 954.696.9577 for info and vendor space.
Stonewall National Museum- Wilton Manors Gallery 2157 Wilton Drive. Wilton
Manors Gallery will increase the visibility of Stonewall Museum as a lively, relevant, LGBT focused cultural institution for the local Fort Lauderdale community and will become a tourist destination as America’s foremost LGBT museum. The Gallery will exist as a welcome center for visitors in South Florida. The Gallery will feature programming and events throughout the year. Call 954-763-8565 for more information or visit www.stonewallnationalmuseum.org.
SunTrust Sunday Jazz Brunch Sundays
throughout the year 11:00am-2:00pm @ Esplanade Park, 400 SW 2nd street. Everyone is welcome to attend including well-behaved leashed pets. Bring your chairs, blankets and picnic baskets.
The Psychic Cabaret @ Bona Cafe thru April 15th @ 8:00 pm. The mind boggling and hysterical new show starring Michael Jons is fast pace and features amazing demonstrations of mind reading, mentalism and psychic entertainment. Admission is $15. 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.
Planning and Zoning Board Monday
Queer Kids: Coming Out in America Now thru January 4, 2015 @ Stonewall National Museum Wilton Manors Gallery 2157 Wilton Drive 7-9PM. Call 954-763-8565 for more info.
Square Dancing Thursdays 7:00 PM – 9:30
Zumba Fitness Class @ Island City Park Reserve 823 NE 28th Street, Wilton Manors. Get
November 8th, 7:00 PM @ City Commission Chambers. 2020 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 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! $5 per class Call Ken @
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.
December 2014
The Islander
Over the Bridge Dining Out with “The Ft. Lauderdale Foodie”
Exotic island dining for Islanders
Head to Mai-Kai Restaurant CANDICE RUSSELL In a city as young as Fort Lauderdale, there are few institutions. But one of them certainly has to be the Mai-Kai Polynesian restaurant, opened in 1956, and as synonymous with Fort Lauderdale as the classic film “Where the Boys Are.” It’s the go-to place when relatives visit from out of town because, it’s likely that there is nothing even close to its style and cuisine back home. Or it’s thought of for special occasions or when you’re in the mood for something completely different. The giant tiki statues out front and lush foliage set the tone for the place as you pull into the restaurant’s driveway. You’re about to go on a South Seas adventure when you open the restaurant door Because we had come for dinner only and not the show, which is an extra charge, we were seated in a back room of tropical ambience – grass cloth on the walls, a variety of lighting fixtures in baskets and glass (one was even fishshaped), and Hawaiian music. We faced an outdoor garden with tropical plants and water features.
Understandably for a place with an island vibe, the seafood menu is varied and delightful. We had the good luck of having the highly solicitous Howard as our server. He provided my dining companion with advice on which tropical drink was neither too big nor too alcoholic, though the serviceable menu breaks down these factors in clear sections. He also made sure my entrée was not too highly spiced, when I asked for it to be “mild.” We shared a generous appetizer, on a special – large shrimp given a crunchy coconut coating with a mild coconut milk and vanilla dipping sauce. The varied regular appetizer menu includes the ever-popular pupu platter ($14.95) for two, including Shanghai chicken, egg roll, crab Rangoon and cheese tangs. Or try bacbecue baby back ribs ($12.95) or oysters Rockefeller ($13.95). For a specialized menu, it is quite extensive. Among the “Oriental dishes” is teriyaki chicken ($1674), tender slices of chicken sautéed with shiitake mushrooms, pods and sliced white mushrooms in teriyaki sauce. Or try Mai-Kai orange beef (!8.75), crispy beef in a spicy orange peel and chili pepper sauce, with fresh broccoli and scallions. Understandably for a place with an island vibe, the seafood menu is varied and delightful. I was pleased with my choice of Panang Curry Shrimp ($22.95), shrimp and Oriental vegetables sim-
mered in a slightly sweet Thai coconut curry sauce with pork fried rice. It was a substantial portion, disallowing room for dessert. Other tempting offerings include Scallops Singapore ($35), sea scallops stir-fried with three types of mushrooms, pea pods, water chestnuts and scallions in a ginger oyster sauce, and Lobster Bora Bora ($37), a shelled Maine lobster weighing a pound and a half sauteed with mushrooms and flamed with bourbon, then finished with cream and a red wine Bordelaise sauce. There are also three duck entreees, including Peking Duck ($57), plus a selection of fresh fish among snapper, yellowfin tuna, mahhi-mahi and Scottish Salmon ($32), prepared either wood-grilled or blackened. Noodles are on the menu, too, including what my partner of the small appetite ordered – Pad Thai ($21.95), with flat rice, noodles, chicken, shrimp, scallions, and bean sprouts in a Thai sauce with crushed peanuts. She pronounced it delicious. Our very kind waiter Howard asked her, after her order was taken and delivered to the kitchen, if she would prefer a half-portion instead, and she said “yes.” His consideration of her needs went over and above the usual standard of service at a fine dining establishment. If you visit Mai-Kai, request to be at Howard’s table. If you come for the show, too, it’s an extra $11.95 per person and well worth it if you’ve never been entertained by an outstanding troupe of male and female dancers. Mai-Kai, the Polynesian Restaurant, is located at 3599 North Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. The telephone number is 954-563-3272.
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December 2014
The Islander
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954-557-2139
Call 954.530.8101 now to advertise your business here!
December 2014
The Islander
Make this holiday memorable with Water Mill Flowers Since 1998, the Holiday Flowers You Can Trust are from Water Mill Flowers, Your Local Florist. You can send Christmas flower arrangements or gifts to Wilton Manors or nationwide with Water Mill Flowers. They have the areas widest selection of centerpieces and bouquets for Christmas decoration. Water Mill Flowers is the leading florists in Fort Lauderdale and is proud to offer a wide assortment of fresh flowers for your gift-giving needs. Their dedicated staff with over 100 years of combined floral experience will help make this Christmas memorable with an artfully designed arrangement or table centerpiece. At Watermill Flowers they offer same day flower delivery to Wilton Manors and surrounding communities. Celebrate the 2014 Christmas Season with festive flowers or a gift basket from Water Mill Flowers of Fort Lauderdale. You’ll surely bring a smile to everyone’s face this holiday with one of Water Mill’s enchanting holiday centerpieces. Their Christmas flowers, arranged flowers and floral centerpieces will surely bring warmth and cheer to any home or office. Same day flower delivery is available for most flower gifts. Not only will a holiday arrangement from Water Mill Flowers make for a memorable gift but they will bring lasting memories far beyond the Holiday Season.
You are welcome to stop by Water Mill Flowers and visit their show room or sit down with one of their renown designers and create your own arrangement. Water Mill Flowers & Fruit Bouquets is located just around the corner at 5600 Northwest 12th Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. You can reach them at 954-772-0200 or visit Water Mill on line at www.watermillflowers.com.
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The Islander
The Islander
December 2014
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December 2014
The Islander
Ask Miss Manors Sorry to Definitely Pro, the reader from last month who desperately wanted Amendment 2 to pass. 57% of Florida is mourning along with you, but the show must go on. This month we have a holiday hopeful who is expecting an engagement, a complicated and potentially awkward New Year’s Eve party, a concerned reader who wonders why there seems to be a frozen iguana epidemic, and another reader who wants to violate my privacy. Ready for some more advice from someone who isn’t your mother?
Dear Miss Manors, I’ve been dating the same guy for 4 years. We live together, we make all of our plans together, we are entrenched in each other’s family. This time last year, I was certain that he was going to propose to me especially since we watched almost all of our other “couple” friends get engaged. I even saw a search for “male engagement rings” in his browser history, but the holidays passed and the new year came, and no popping of the question. This year I’m watching the same thing happen on Facebook. Engagement after engagement. This is something I truly want, but he doesn’t seem to be willing to take the step. How do I make it through another year of disappointment?
Signed, Disappointed, but Still Hopeful
Dear Disappointed, The evil combination of Facebook and the holidays is making you crazy. ‘Tis true that ‘tis the season for engagements. It might be something about the gathering of loved ones or all the discounts on jewelry, but it’s been reported by people who supposedly know that engagements spike this time of year. Social media certainly doesn’t help when it comes to comparing where you are in your relationship to where others might be. Don’t despair. It appears you have a long and loving relationship, and it’s important to focus on that as opposed to the appearance of happiness or moving forward of folks on the Facebook. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people post couldn’t-behappier-smiling engagement photos along with pictures of potential dresses only to announce with regret that the wedding was off. You should also consider calling off your internet snooping. Your boyfriend might have been searching for rings for you, but he may have been searching for one of your many friends. He may even have been looking for himself to consider what kind of ring he would want to wear happily ever after. Or maybe he even left the search open for you to find hoping that YOU would take the hint. The point is that this isn’t a question you should be asking me, this is a question you should be asking him. Try something like “Have you ever thought about taking a quick, legally-binding, fi-
nancially-entangling and ever-so-romantic trip to California or New York?”
Dear Miss Manors, I happen to be one of those people who stays good friends with their exes....and their ex’s family. Over the past few years, I’ve been spending the holidays with “Tim” and Tim’s family since mine is based in another country. The problem is that I’ve been seeing someone new, it’s serious enough that we’re talking about spending our first Christmas together. The new guy’s family is out-of-state, and he isn’t planning on visiting them, and I don’t want to disappointed Tim’s family by not showing up. I also don’t want this to be an awkward situation for Tim or for my current man. What should I do?
Signed, Ex-Friendly Dear Ex-Friendly, I know your type. I’ve dated your type. I’ve considered the virtues of being your type. It seems wrong to just cut ties with people who have meant so much to you and who obviously still care for you. It can also be really comforting to be surrounded by familiar people when your own family is so far away. A lot of what you should do actually depends on the preferences of your new guy. If he is similarly exfriendly (and you wouldn’t have an issue with spending the holidays with his ex’s family) then there really isn’t a problem, is there?
wave hippies who keep it all zen, all love, all the time). You also put in the effort to give a fake name for your ex but referred to your current beau as “the new guy”. I know this is just a letter, but seriously think about how making the new guy feel like “The New Guy” versus a quietly romantic holiday with just the two of you will reinforce or weaken the new relationship you seem to want to grow.
Dear Miss Manors, Whenever the weather gets rather cold for the Sunshine State, I notice iguanas freezing and dropping dead from tree branches. What the heck is going on? Should we pick them up and remove them? I’m afraid the neighborhood cats will be drawn for their own holiday feast.
Signed, Fearing Iguanapocalypse Dear Fearing, No need to fear. Those lizards aren’t dead. They’re just an unfortunately bioinvasive species who don’t function well in a temperate climate. When temps dip below 40 degrees, iguanas and other small tropical reptiles experience hypothermia and only appear to be some kind of dead. Leave those lizard popsicles where they are. When temps go up, they will revive and go along their way.
Dear Miss Manors, Who are you?
Leave those lizard popsicles where they are. On the other hand, bringing someone with whom you are in a fairly new relationship with into a situation with a group that you have such strong ties with might be a little intimidating and leave him wondering if there is actually room in your life and heart to build a new life based on your relationship with him. Here are some more things to consider: Does Tim have a new romantic interest that will also be at the party? You don’t have children with “Tim” so keeping up such a strong relationship is a little unorthodox (despite the new
Signed, Wants-to-Know Dear Wants to Know, I appreciate the curiosity, but I don’t advise and tell. It would be quite awkward for me to be sitting at the Courtyard Cafe only to have someone realize that I know about their secret affairs. Maybe one day when I’m old and gray, I’ll let people know in my tell-all autobiography.
Thanks, Islanders! If you have unresolved drama, general life questions, or nagging need-to-knows about life in Wilton Manors/South Florida, don’t hesitate to write in to missmanors.theislander@gmail.com. or message The Islander Newspaper on Facebook.
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December 2014
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December 2014
The Islander