Thank you to the residents of Hollywood’s District 6 for your continued trust and for allowing me to remain as your representative in our city’s governance. I am excited about the things that we can accomplish together in the next four years. I often reflect on the ways that Hollywood’s people, our neighborhoods and our locally owned small businesses make our city the very special place that it is. Elevating the role of small businesses in our city’s success is one of my priorities. More than ten years ago a group of small businesses located between 56th and 64th Avenue on Johnson Street started the Johnson Street Business District. The group was mostly comprised of multi-generational, family-owned businesses that had been in Hollywood for decades. Mimi’s Ravioli, Gino’s Italian Market, Joan’s Florist, Edco, Miramar Bakery, Testa Signs, Burdette Beckmann, Inc. and Presence Community Acupuncture were among its founders.  The group produced an annual event called the “Party On The J – International Music, Food and Art Festival”. 

It was an opportunity to spread the word about the products, services and experiences offered in this area and celebrated the many cultures found in the business owners and the residents in and around this part of Hollywood. The event drew several thousand people including locals from all over our great city as well as visitors from Miami and Palm Beach. Due to the pandemic and other factors, it has been several years since this event happened. As the City of Hollywood nears its 100th birthday, plans are underway for a series of signature events that will have us celebrating our city’s past, present and future throughout the year in 2025. I am thrilled that the return of the “Party On The J” is one of those celebrations. Be sure to mark your calendar and plan to attend on Sunday, February 2nd .