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It’s been about seven years in the making and all signs point to a long planned project finally being implemented.

Also, the Velvet Lenore's Chili Cook Off is April 25, this Saturday.

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- Kim Swan, Editor

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Turn up the heat and come hungry for Velvet Lenore’s Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, April 25 from 6–9 p.m. at Scandals Saloon. Hosted by OUTSFL, this fiery night of flavor, fun, and fierce competition invites you to taste your way through South Florida’s best chili creations while helping crown the ultimate winner. For just a $10 donation, you’ll support the Melissa St. John LGBTQ College Student Scholarship and fuel the next generation of community leaders. Expect bold flavors, local talent, and a whole lot of spice — because this isn’t just a cook-off, it’s a celebration with a purpose.

Feature

Wayfinding Signs Set to Debut by Stonewall Pride

By John Hayden

It’s been about seven years in the making and all signs point to a long planned project finally being implemented.

During the city commission meeting on April 14, Wilton Manors City Manager Leigh Ann Henderson announced that new wayfinding signs are arriving and should be in place in time for Stonewall Pride. Permits from the state and the city have been approved. County permits are in the works. Henderson says once those are finished work will begin.

Property Tax Relief 

It looks like near-total elimination of property taxes won’t be passed by the state legislators despite Gov. Ron DeSantis’ wishes. He is promising to call a special session to put some proposal on the ballot in November. Tallahassee watchers say it’s likely to be an increase in homestead exemptions that would benefit working class owners of less-expensive homes and not be a boon to residents of Star Island. 

That said, anything can happen once lawmakers get back together. Any change would need to pass with 60% of the vote in November. With that in mind, the city’s hiring freeze may be thawing. Commissioners are letting the city fill a vacant groundskeeper position. The person maintains landscaping on Wilton Drive and other stretches of roadway beautification throughout the city. There is no backup. 

In the three weeks since the person left, jobs like weed pulling and other basic maintenance have gone without.

News

Scandal Ousts Cherfilus-McCormick, Leaving Florida’s Bluest District Without Representation

Just minutes away from joining only a handful of members of the U.S. House of Representatives ever to be expelled, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick resigned her seat.

Art, Film, Music, and Dipsy Drama

The OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival is South Florida’s premier LGBTQ cultural arts event, originating from the Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (1998) and the Fort Lauderdale Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (2008). These two iconic festivals merged under one dynamic brand, reflecting their vibrant, multicultural audience and international recognition.

ICYMI

Do You Approve of President Donald Trump? Take Our Survey and Let Us Know

Do you approve or disapprove of the way Donald Trump is handling his job as president? Let us know by taking our survey.

Weekly Events

TODAY: Men's Mixer

Men's mixer for gay men age 21+ at Chocolate City Bar & Grill, Wilton Manors 6 - 9 p.m.


SAT: Traffic Jam

Get ready for a high-energy night where the music, the crowd, and the vibes collide.  


SUN: Drag Brunch

Get ready for a fabulous brunch with fierce drag queens and endless drinks to keep the party going.

Job Opportunities

Personal Lines Sales Professional -- Fort Lauderdale

NSI Insurance Group is hiring a Personal Lines Sales Professional to develop and maintain strong relationships with new clients, and more. $52,000 - $56,000 a year. 


Pest Technician -- Fort Lauderdale

Abell Pest Control is seeking a Pest Technician to establish contact with potential customers to create new business opportunities, and more.

Friday's Furry Friend

Handsome Tanner (ID 714391) would love to go home with you. He came from the county shelter, so his past is a mystery, but the volunteers and staff say he is friendly, likes to be petted and held, is affectionate, and enjoys playing with toys, especially toys with string or feathers. Oh, and let's not forget that he likes treats. This 7-year-old fellow has a lot of competition with younger felines but hopes you will open up your heart and home to him. Such a sweet boy, he just loves to be petted and get tummy rubs. This distinguished kitty is FIV positive, but that doesn’t define him, and it certainly doesn’t stop him from living a happy, healthy life. Cats with FIV can enjoy many wonderful years filled with love, play, and companionship. With regular vet care, good nutrition, and an indoor lifestyle, FIV-positive cats like Tanner often live just as long as other cats.

I’ve proudly called Wilton Manors home for the past 14 years and truly love being part of this vibrant community. As a Realtor® with Castelli Real Estate, powered by Better Homes & Gardens, and with over 25 years of experience in condo and HOA management, I bring a unique perspective when helping buyers and sellers navigate the South Florida market. Our office is conveniently located right on Wilton Drive, and whether you’re buying or selling in Wilton Manors or anywhere in South Florida, I’m always happy to help. 


southfloridadreamhomes.net

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