Mangowood Neighborhood is Worth Celebrating
/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 152nd Street and 84th 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.
2019 photo of neighbors gathered for July 4th celebrations at their flagpole monument
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% upon sale. It is a testament to how a strong community can help itself and elevate themselves in amazing ways.
