Dark clouds loomed but kept their distance as residents of Wilton Manors dined, drank, and celebrated their community. They were at Mickel Park for the Neighborhood Spring Social of the Westside Association of Wilton Manors.

Residents here often feel overlooked as The Drive attracts entertainment and attention from developers.  

“The westside is made up of folks who really care about the neighborhood,” WAWM president Shawn Walsh said. “We don’t have The Drive or that natural communal aspect. We have to create it for ourselves in spaces like this.” 

Walsh says his group’s advocacy is visible everywhere you look, including Mickel Park, the spot of the party.  

“The city’s done a great job of renovating for us and letting us use for these kinds of events.” 

The community feel was evident from the tail-wagging dogs to businesses that offered support. Hunters supplied the booze and the bartenders, Dom Caruso catered, and Over Easy Cafe brought the desserts.  

This was an opportunity for people to talk about westside goals and wishlists. They are applying for a grant to update the splash pad and are hoping to use an upcoming surtax project on Andres Avenue to make it a walk-live community rather than have to travel to The Drive or Oakland Park. 

At their most recent meeting, the development team from The Ave presented their project of 161 residential units at the intersection of N Andrews Ave and Oakland Park Boulevard and took community questions and feedback. 

“We’re engaged in trying to improve the community for everyone who lives here.” 

The next neighborhood social is tentatively set for November.