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Are you truly passionate about where you live? Well, the residents of Mangowood, a section of Palmetto Bay, couldn’t be prouder of who they are and what they do. It is a true story of neighborly love that has survived more than 50 years.
When you pass by the history-rich brick memorial and proud American flag flying at its entrance on SW 152 Street and 84 Court, Mangowood instantly makes you feel like you are living in a 1960s-like idyllic dream where all the neighbors know and care for each other.
Each year in early November, the Civic Association meets to elect its new Board. They also use the occasion to throw a block party for all the families of the nearly 300 homeowners. Every year, the turnout seems to grow.
And this is not the only annual event. The community throws signature events for Easter, Independence Day (with a jet flyover!), Halloween and the Rose Van Patten Holiday Parade (complete with Santa, fire trucks, police and local dignitaries winding through the streets) each year. For a voluntary nominal yearly fee, this group of dedicated homeowners make cheer flow all year round.
This year, the Mayor of Palmetto Bay, Karyn Cunningham announced, “I am proud to be regularly invited to what is likely the best neighborhood in all of Florida.”
Leanne Tellam, Vice Mayor and 28-year Mangowood resident, added, “We are a family in Mangowood. We celebrate the old and welcome the new.”
Jim Wierman, who is the longest living resident in Mangowood, explained, “I have been here since 1958. I was president of the Board when Hurricane Andrew came through and remember how we all came together to help and support one another. We truly saved each other.” The Wiermans have had four generations grow up in the house they bought for $30,000. It is now worth well over $1 million.
“It’s a fantastic neighborhood, great place to raise kids, we have an elementary school and park right up the street and lots of neighborliness,” explains 20-year resident Robin Bachin.
“It’s just a wonderful place and when nearly 1000 families come through for Halloween, that says it all!”
Speaking of Halloween, Mangowood has a house decorating contest each year, and both kids and parents love it. I caught up with 8-year old Lilly Lau at the cotton candy machine.
“The best thing about Mangowood is the trick-or-treating. I just love it! It’s fun!”
David Greenwell, a long-time Mangowood resident, explains, “Mangowood really is a great big family. Everyone knows and appreciates one another and that is what makes this so special.” The Greenwell family owns three homes in Mangowood.
As a local real estate expert, I regularly visit Mangowood and recognize the efforts of the Mangowood Estates Civic Association as one of the reasons homes in Mangowood can easily fetch an extra 10 percent upon sale. It is a testament to how a strong community can help itself and elevate themselves in amazing ways.
Happy Trails Wagons West
After 43 years, one of our beloved landmarks has closed. Wagons West was Suniland Shopping Center’s anchor since 1981, drawing in hungry shoppers and travelers to a true family-operated restaurant, complete with some unique and enduring personalities.
Beyond the home-cooked American diner style food, it was really the people who both worked at and frequented Wagons West that made it so special. So many people have so many memories inside this place that Walter (Wally) Meunch built with his brother, literally by hand.
Once called the “Times Square of Pinecrest”, this is where ideas were exchanged, events were celebrated and generations of families shared a meal.
A special tribute to this man and his accomplishments is available for viewing at: https://www.miamihal.com/the-miamihal-real-estate-show/2023/11/9/episode-114
Real Estate Update
As of 11/10/23, there were 100 properties for sale in Pinecrest, 25 homes pending sale and 6.3 months of inventory. If you’re ready to move, contact me to get the best local expertise, truthful guidance and realistic expectations. It’s easy to get started at miamihal.com/getstarted.
I invite you to view past episodes of my The MiamiHal Real Estate Show at miamihal.com/the-miamihal-real-estate-show to hear from experts and get the latest real estate news.
Hal Feldman (MiamiHal) is a Realtor with RE/MAX Advance Realty. You can contact him with your story ideas or real estate questions at www.MiamiHal.com, Hal@MiamiHal.com or www.facebook.com/MiamiHal
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