Location, location, location. THE PERFECT family home! Spacious, bright & beautifully updated 3/2.5 with 2-car garage. ample closets, modern, updated baths, pool w/covered patio, Travertine pavers and abundance of LUSH TROPICAL landscaping. Impact windows & doors, new roof & gutters 2022, new A/C with HALO LED 2023, new A/c ducts 2023,relined pipes 2022. Custom, eat in kitchen w/ wine fridge, GE Monogram duel fuel range, Thermador refrigerator & freezer. Oversized dining room overlooking sparking pool. Inside laundry with cabinets, utility sink, new dryer & washer. Impeccably maintained and situated in prestigious Emerald Hills. Close to EVERYTHING! $1,100,000
4350 HILLCREST DR. #600 (HILLCREST)
Amazing 2/2 corner unit that has been completely remodeled. Natural light flows thru plentiful windows in living & dining room. Open, designer kitchen w/quartz counters, glass tile backsplash, all Samsung SS appliances & large pantry. Large master has generous walk-in w/ built-ins. Gorgeous master bathroom with luxurious tub & shower. Balcony views of the city and Guitar Hotel. Incredible amenities! $279,900
221 N 46TH AVE. (HOLLYWOOD HILLS)
Beautiful 3/2 Hollywood Hills home. Corner lot with garage & driveway off the alley. Tile roof & A/C 2023, tankless water heater, impact windows & doors. Spacious kitchen w/ granite counters & SS appliances. Gorgeous grey & white tile throughout. Covered, screened back patio overlooks the large, fenced backyard. Freshly painted interior & exterior. Walk to restaurants and shops. $629,000
137 GOLDEN ISLES DR #1604 (HALLANDALE)
Breathtaking ocean & Intracoastal views. Top floor w/ high ceilings throughout. Impeccably remodeled 1/1.5 features gorgeous kitchen and baths. Wood-look ceramic tile, custom electric shades, Impact windows & doors, upgraded electric panel, recessed lighting, covered parking & same floor storage locker. Building completed 50 yr recertification. Boat slips available for rent!
1917 N 42ND AVE. (HOLLYWOOD HILLS)
Beautiful 3/2 (split bedrooms) with carport on quiet street in desirable Hollywood Hills. Cozy, light-fille, freshly painted, gorgeous tile, newer verticals & modern light fixtures throughout. Crown molding in living areas, SS appliances, quartz counters, generous closets, inside laundry room with tankless hot water heater, covered screened patio and huge, fenced backyard. NO HOA! $599,900
1115 REDWOOD STREET (WESTLAKE VILLAGE)
Only Waterfront home currently listed! New roof being installed. Well maintained 3/2.5 with 2 car garage. Formal LR/DR, large eat in kitchen with an abundance of cabinets & counter space. Spacious, with high ceilings thru-out first
&
MANAGING
Christy Jaillet
ART
Tom Rowe
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Alana Brodie
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER
Denise Caligiuri caligiur@bellsouth.net
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Jared Blaut, John Brodie, Adrienne Collins, Mariem Garcia, Nancy Koval, Silvia Silva
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Terry Jaillet, James Roberts
Jon Duka, Mayor Josh Levy, Rick Burke, Lilli Schipper, Valentina Valderama
ADVERTISING
In It Together Honoring Healthcare Heroes
October heralds the arrival of Breast Cancer Awareness Month: every year, the world witnesses unexpected bursts of pink. High school football players don pink socks in tribute to mothers’ and grandmothers’ cancer battles. Office workers wear pink ribbons signifying their support. The global movement for Breast Cancer Awareness has not only illuminated the challenges of breast cancer but also fueled immense strides in research funding.
The Our City Media family is no stranger to the horrors of breast cancer. Some of us have watched loved ones grapple with a diagnosis and eventually overcome it, while others have faced the pain of loss. Throughout these experiences, one constant remained: the relentless dedication of healthcare professionals. Their unwavering commitment to ensuring optimum health is truly commendable.
As highlighted by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, nearly 1 million Floridians have chosen careers in healthcare. This includes 83,000 doctors, 190,000 nurses, 66,000 EMTs and Paramedics, alongside hundreds of thousands in support roles.
This edition of Our City magazine celebrates some of these “Healthcare Heroes.” Discover the stories of individuals who continue to uplift our community.
A heartfelt thank you to all the healthcare workers from everyone here at Our City Media for guiding us towards a healthier and a brighter tomorrow.
Christy & Terry Jaillet
Carmona, APRN
Noorah Khan, APRN
Kevin Verde, PA
Ismely Monduy Pineda, MD
October 2024 Calendar
OCTOBER 6
Cardboard Boat Race
This is a fun, family-oriented event, and we’d love for you to be a part of the action. Create a team name and theme for your vessel and come join the fun and excitement. See the innovative designs and witness the sheer will to win all the racers share. Be amazed and amused as they speed across the water in their quest for the ultimate prize -- the coveted plastic trophy. 10:00 am - Noon at City of Hollywood Marina, 700 Polk Street. Scan the QR code for more info or to register or call 954-921-3404.
OCTOBER 6
Hollywood Historic Walking Tour
Join locals on a guided walking tour of historic downtown Hollywood. The walking tour sets out on the first Sunday of each month at 11:00 am from the northeast corner of Hollywood Boulevard and 21st Ave. It is a wonderful way to learn about Hollywood’s past and how the city has grown into the dynamic community it is today. For more info visit www.HollywoodHistoricalSociety.org.
OCTOBER 7
Food Trucks at ArtsPark
Food In Motion Presents, Food Trucks at ArtsPark every first Monday of each month from 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM As a reminder, City parks are plastic and foamfree. Single-use items, like plastic water bottles and utensils are prohibited on the grounds. Hours are 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm at Young Circle. For more info, call 954-788-3467.
OCTOBER 11
ArtsPark Movie Night featuring The Super Mario Bros.
See a free family-friendly flick every Friday at the ArtsPark at Young Circle in Downtown Hollywood. Lawn seating is available, so bring a blanket or beach chair for comfort. As a reminder, City parks are plastic and foam-free. Single-use items, like plastic water bottles and utensils, are prohibited on the grounds. 8:00 - 10:00 pm at the ArtsPark Amphitheater. For more info, call 954-921-3404.
OCTOBER 11
Gold Over America Tour
Join the excitement at the Gold Over America Tour, starring Simone Biles and America’s best gymnasts. This celebration of world-class gymnastics will inspire the next generation of champions. Led by Biles, the most decorated gymnast of all time, the event will deliver an exhilarating display of jaw-dropping athletic brilliance and high-energy choreography. Every tumble, twist, and gravity-defying trick will have audiences on the edge of their seats. Hosted at Amerant Bank Arena. The show starts at 7:30pm. Scan the QR code for tickets and more info.
OCTOBER 12
Pursuit of Honor 5K
Get our your running shoes to support the Wounded Warrior Project and the Fort Lauderdale Sea Cadets. The Navy League of the United States- Fort Lauderdale Council presents the Pursuit of Honor, Courage & Commitment 5K Run/ Walk on Hollywood Beach. The starter’s pistol will go off at 7:30 am at Charnow Park in Hollywood Beach. Scan the QR code for info or to sign up.
October 2024 Calendar
OCTOBER 12
Hollywood Beach Sweep
Help keep Hollywood Beach beautiful by volunteering for the Hollywood Beach Sweep Clean-Up on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 7:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Charnow Park, 300 Connecticut Street and the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk. Register your vehicle tag by Wednesday, the week of the event, to secure your four hours parking with the Parking Department. Scan the QR code for more info.
OCTOBER 12
Dania
After Dark - Oktoberfest
Mickey and his pals are rocking the DJ The City of Dania Beach is thrilled to unveil the long-awaited return of Dania After Dark from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., located at 100 W Dania Beach Blvd! The event series is set to begin with the vibrant festivities of Oktoberfest. This FREE event offers something for everyone. Beer enthusiasts will be delighted by over 25 different breweries, offering exquisite brews accessible with purchased sampling tickets. For more info, call 954-9246800 ext 3627.
OCTOBER 26
Hollyweird
Hollywood’s Annual Downtown Halloween Celebration promises to delight those of all ages. Both sides of Hollywood Blvd. will be closed between 19th and 20th streets for a super-sized block party Hollyweird is the biggest, best and most frightening good time you will have all year. So, be sure to get that perfect outfit, and head to Downtown Hollywood.
OCTOBER 27
Out of Darkness Walk
The Broward Out of the Darkness Walk gives people the courage to open up about their own connections to suicide. Friends, family members, neighbors & coworkers walk side-by-side, supporting each other and in memory of those they’ve lost. Come together as a community to honor those we have lost, support those who are struggling, & work towards a brighter future. The Walk starts at 8:00 am at NOVA Southeastern University, 3300 S. University Drive. Scan the QR code to register.
OCT 30 - NOV 4
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is the greatest boat show on the seven seas. Located steps from the beach in sunny South Florida, FLIBS spans nearly 90 acres across three million square feet of exhibit space that is connected by an intricate network of water and ground transportation services. The five-day show attracted over 100,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors representing 52 countries with more than 1,300 boats on display. Products range from sunglasses to superyachts and everything in between. For tickets & more info visit www.flibs.com.
Trick-or-treating promises to be a blast for kids of all ages this year! Whether they're dressing up, playing games, or pulling a fun prank on friends or family, there’s plenty of excitement in store. Just remember to have fun and stay safe!
GENESIS, U.S. SOCCER FOUNDATION, & MLS PLAYERS ASSOCIATION UNVEIL NEW MINI-PITCH
Anew mini-pitch has been unveiled at the Police Athletic League (PAL) in Hollywood, bringing a vibrant hub for soccer to the community. This customized, hard-court soccer surface offers local children and families a safe, exciting environment to engage in the world's most popular sport. The project was made possible through a partnership between the U.S. Soccer Foundation, the MLS Players Association, and Genesis Gives, the philanthropic arm of Genesis Motor America, dedicated to supporting STEAM education initiatives.
The grand opening event featured a ceremonial first kick, followed by a friendly scrimmage between youth players and coaches. This installation is part of the U.S. Soccer Foundation's Safe Places to Play initiative, which aims to create 1,000 mini-pitches in underserved communities across the U.S. by 2026. With over 700 pitches already installed, these spaces are transforming neighborhoods, providing safe, accessible areas for children to develop their skills, stay active, and foster a love for soccer.
Set Sail with Cardboard Hollywood’s Annual Boat Race Returns!
The City of Hollywood's Cardboard Boat Race is back, inviting participants to design and race boats made entirely of cardboard and duct tape! Ready to build a boat—out of cardboard?
That’s right! Hosted by the City of Hollywood Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts, this fun-filled event is perfect for families and friends. Gather your team, design and build your boat, grab your paddles, and prepare for action at the City of Hollywood Marina, 700 Polk Street.
All boats must be built off-site in advance, following the specifications in the registration packet. This family-friendly event encourages creativity and teamwork as participants create themed vessels and race them across
the water. Teams will compete for trophies, judged on boat design, speed, and ability to stay afloat. Categories include “Most Creative,” “Fastest Time,” and the crowd-favorite “Titanic Award” for the most entertaining sinking.
Enjoy the spectacle as boats race for the ultimate prize. The fun kicks off at 10:00 a.m., with teams displaying their innovative designs and fierce determination.
It’s a great opportunity to bring the community together, inspire teamwork, and test your engineering skills while having a blast!
For more info or to buy tickets, scan the QR code
Tricks, Treats, and Costumes Galore Celebrate Halloween at Hollyweird
It’s that time of year when the sun sets earlier, the slight temperature change becomes apparent, and October’s signature holiday lurks around the corner. Although the leaves will not change colors and the smell of fall will not be in the air, grab your little pumpkins and pumpkin-spiced lattes and head over to Hollywood’s most anticipated fall festival.
Hollyweird is here again and the party committee has plenty of tricks up their sleeves as they make this SPOOK-tacular better than ever.
On Saturday, October 26th, Hollywood’s Annual Downtown Halloween Celebration promises to delight those of all ages. Both sides of Hollywood Blvd. will be closed between 19th and 20th streets for a supersized block party in two segments. “Witch” will you attend?
Early in the night from 6-9 pm, the little ones can enjoy “Treat Street.” The interactive trick-or-treat area is free and offers plenty of candy stations, a bounce house, plenty of “selfie” spaces, a costume contest, kidfriendly entertainment, and so much more.
Later that evening, the real party started after the little ghosts and goblins had been tucked away in their beds. The “Hollyweird” Block Party will start at 9:00 p.m. and run through 2:00 a.m. for the 21-and-over crowd. There is no cover charge, and the local business community will offer food and beverages for sale.
Live music and entertainment will fill multiple stages, and guests are encouraged to “dress to impress.” Adult costume contests with categories such as best group,
sexiest, scariest, and best overall can win cash and prizes.
“We are looking forward to partnering again with The New Hibernians of Hollywood to host the wildly popular Hollyweird event in downtown Hollywood. The event offers an awesome way to celebrate Halloween and show off their amazing costumes for a chance to win cash prizes!”
Hollywood’s Halloween celebration is on October 26th from 9:00 pm-2:00 am. For more info, visit hollyweirdfestival.com.
Broward County Public Schools Continues FREE Meals for the 2024/25 School Year
Broward County Public Schools (BCPS), the nation’s sixth-largest school district, announced that it will continue to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students for the 2024/2025 school year. Funding for the meals will come from several programs, including Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), Universal Free Breakfast, and the Universal Free Lunch Program Pilot Year 2.
Several research studies connect access to healthy breakfasts and lunches to academic success for school-aged children. These studies typically focus on the impact of school meal programs, nutrition quality, and their effects on cognitive function, behavior, and academic performance.
A 2013 study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that children who ate breakfast regularly performed better on cognitive tasks, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. Children who skipped breakfast or ate low-nutrient
meals had reduced cognitive function throughout the morning.
A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasized that schools offering nutritious meals through programs like the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program are positively associated with academic achievement.
The CEP offers free meals to all students at 180 eligible schools, where at least 40% of students qualify for federal assistance programs, including SNAP and Medicaid. Families at these schools do not need to fill out an application for meal benefits.
For the remaining 47 nonCEP schools, the Universal Free Lunch Program Pilot Year 2 ensures that all students receive free lunches, regardless of eligibility. Families at
these schools are encouraged to complete an online Meal Benefits application to help sustain the program and potentially access more district benefits. Universal Free Breakfast will also be available at these 47 schools.
In its announcement, the school district noted that it “continues to prioritize student health by providing more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-sodium options, as well as expanding vegan and vegetarian choices.”
It’s 1974 all over again at the Hollywood Historical Society (HHS) as we celebrate our 50th Anniversary Jubilee! The games begin on November 9th, when the HHS will host its first ever History Hunt—a team scavenger hunt for historic places throughout the city’s neighborhoods. From Boulevard Heights to the Downtown, from Hollywood Lakes to Emerald Hills, teams will decipher clues leading to check points in each of the six commission districts, and complete history challenges at those locations throughout the city. All are welcome to take part.
The competition ends at the Disco Ball—a 1970’s themed street festival on the Hammerstein House grounds at 1520 Polk St. There’ll be a dance floor and a live DJ spinning tunes old and new, vintage vendors, and lots of food and drink.
“This event is a great lead-in to our 2025 year-long celebration of Hollywood’s history,” said HHS Executive Director Andy Ruffner. “Things like the History Hunt and
the Disco Ball make history fun for all ages, and create a sense of pride and heritage in Hollywood’s unique story.”
The Hollywood Historical Society was formed in 1974 in response to plans for the demolition of the original Hollywood Hills School on Taft Street. While the building could not be saved, those early advocates began an organization that has continued to grow over the past 50 years through educational programming and preservation advocacy, Ruffner explained.
“In this event, we are highlighting other neighborhoods beyond the downtown and beach areas of the city, and focusing on later eras of Hollywood’s history, after the 1920s and ‘30s, to create a greater understanding of our more recent past and its impact on the city today.”
The History Hunt will start at 3 PM on Saturday, November 9—the Veteran’s Day Holiday weekend. Festivities of the Disco Ball street party will begin at 5:30
so everyone can welcome the teams completing the course. All are invited to come to the ball—costumes encouraged but not mandatory— and dance the night away until 9 PM. Funds raised from team registrations and festival admissions will go directly to HHS education and preservation programs. For more information, please visit our web page at https://hollywoodhistoricalsociety.org or email andy@ hollywoodhistoricalsociety.org.
These events are just a taste of the Hollywood Historical Society’s agenda supporting its mission to keep the City’s history alive for today and the future. We are a nonprofit 501(c)(3)* cultural organization founded and operated by volunteers. For more information or to join us, please email HollywoodFLHistory@att.net, or visit www.hollywoodhistoricalsociety.org/. Hammerstein House is open for docent-led tours on the first Sunday of every month from 1 to 4, or by appointment.
Miles for Smiles Broward Children’s Center Hosts 21st Annual 5K
On Saturday, November 16, Broward Children’s Center will host its 21st Annual Miles for Smiles 5K at Pompano Beach Community Park. This fun-filled event welcomes runners, walkers, families, community leaders, and individuals using wheelchairs and strollers to come together for a great cause—raising awareness and funds for Broward Children’s Center.
The day will feature a family-friendly 5K run/walk, children’s activities, live entertainment, raffles, and an awards ceremony. WPLG-ABC Anchor Nicole Perez will serve as the master of ceremonies, adding an exciting element to the festivities.
Proceeds from Miles for Smiles will benefit Broward Children’s Center, a nonprofit organization that has been supporting infants, children, and young adults with special needs since 1971. The funds raised will go toward the center’s essential programs, which provide
medical, developmental, and therapeutic services for developmentally disabled and medically fragile children and young adults.
Participants can sign up individually or as part of a team and take part in online fundraising before race day. Check-in opens at 8 a.m., with the 5K kicking off at 9 a.m. An awards ceremony and a participant raffle will follow the race.
This event is a powerful opportunity for the community to unite in support of inclusion and Broward Children’s Center’s mission to provide life-changing services for children with special needs. Whether you’re an avid runner or simply want to contribute to a worthy cause, Miles for Smiles offers a fun and meaningful way to make a positive impact.
Scan the QR Code to learn more or to register for the run
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Your wealth plan should keep up with the changing circumstances of your life, as well as with the cycles in the financial markets. A new career, a new grandchild, a new business, a significant shift in your portfolio — any of these events could necessitate a fresh look at your strategy.
As Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors, we can work with you to develop a strategy and then help you manage your investments and assets through life’s changes. Call today to arrange an appointment. We’ll work together to plan for what may come.
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@morganstanley.com
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L to R: Tatiana Jaramillo, Client Service Associate; John Martell Duford; Mark Bodkins; Carolyn Williams, Senior Registered Client Service Associate; Maria Strand, Senior Client Service Associate
DCosmetic Dentist Best Smile Cosmetic Dentistry Laura Gonzalez, DMD
r. Laura Gonzalez graduated from the esteemed Facultad de Odontología at the Universidad Autónoma de México and furthered her education at Nova Southeastern University’s School of Dental Medicine. With this solid foundation of training and experience, Dr. Gonzalez established her practice, focused on delivering excel lence in dentistry with a commitment to outstanding aesthetic results. To stay at the forefront of her profession, she has completed extensive post-gradu ate training at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies and the renowned World Laser Institute.
When you step into Best Smile Cosmetic Dentistry, you immediately notice this is different from your typical dental office. The calming, welcoming ambi ance puts you at ease, offering a spa-like atmosphere that sets it apart from traditional practices.
Dr. Gonzalez and her team are dedicated to provid ing state-of-the-art dental care, specializing in beauti ful and healthy smiles that meet the highest aesthetic standards and boost patients' confidence and trans form their lives. The practice offers a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists including an Endodontist, Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon, Orthodontist, Periodontist, and Cosmetic Dentist, ensuring that every patient receives the most advanced and comprehensive care for their dental needs.
“We are committed to investing in the latest technologies to keep our patients at the cutting edge of dental care,” says Dr. Gonzalez. “This includes intra-oral cameras for detailed images, digital X-rays, advanced lasers, and a TENSing Unit, which enhances neuromuscular care by determining the most comfort able jaw position through gentle muscle stimulation.”
At Best Smile Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Gonzalez and her team deliver high-quality, modern dental solutions in an environment designed to make patients feel relaxed and pampered.
To learn more about Dr. Gonzalez, or to schedule an appointment at Best Smile Cosmetic Dentistry, visit www.bestsmile.us, scan the QR code, or call 954-248-2601.
DVenessa Walker
Walker Chiropractic and Wellness Center Dr.
Chiropractic Physician
r. Venessa Walker, a dedicated chiropractor based in Miramar, is committed to improving the health and wellness of her patients through a holistic approach to chiropractic care. Whether her patients are struggling with back or neck pain or simply looking to enhance their overall well-being, Dr. Walker is known for identifying the underlying causes of discomfort rather than just addressing the symptoms.
By concentrating on spinal imbalances, she creates personalized wellness plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs, leading to significant and life-changing improvements in all areas of their lives. This approach instills a sense of optimism and confidence in her patients.
Born and raised in Mount Salem, St. James, Jamaica, Dr. Walker aspired to become a doctor from an early age. Her mother, a registered nurse, encour aged her to pursue a career in medicine. However, her path took a turn when she was introduced to chiropractic care during her studies at the University of South Florida. This introduction was not just a career choice but a personal revelation, a moment of inspira tion and hope that she now shares with her patients.
Initially set on becoming a sports physician, Dr. Walker’s perspective changed when she shadowed a practitioner who turned out to be a chiropractor. This pivotal moment inspired her to pursue a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, and today, she runs her practice, providing much-needed relief to her patients.
With a focus on the “whole person,” Dr. Walker’s approach has earned her a reputation for helping patients achieve higher functioning and a better quality of life. Her compassionate care has not only made a positive impact on her patients but also on the Miramar community as a whole, demonstrating her commitment to the area she serves.
To learn more about Dr. Walker or to schedule an appointment at Weston Medical Health & Wellness, visit www.walkerchiropracticfl.com, scan the QR code, or call 954-639-7257.
CCarlos A. Torre, MD
Otolaryngologist & Sleep Specialist
Sleep, Snoring & Sinus Clinic of Florida
arlos A. Torre, MD, is an Otolaryngologist and Sleep Specialist serving Pembroke Pines and Plantation, Florida. He is dedicated to delivering integrated, innovative care, focusing on efficient, high-quality healthcare systems that improve his patients’ quality of life through advanced treatments and programs.
Dr. Torre earned his medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico, School of Medicine. During his studies, he participated in the Advanced Training in Clinical Research fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco, where he first developed an interest in sleep surgery. After completing his Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery residency at the University of Puerto Rico, he pursued a two-year fellowship at Stanford University in sleep surgery and sleep medicine.
Throughout his career, Dr. Torre has focused on addressing the root causes of sleep disorders, particularly those involving the airway. As Assistant Professor and Director of the Sleep Surgery Program at the University of Miami, he introduced personalized upper airway evaluations using Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) and hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), helping establish the university as a leader in comprehensive sleep care.
Developing programs that ensure seamless, high-quality patient care has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his career. He believes otolaryngology is a unique specialty that restores health and enhances quality of life. For those considering the field, he emphasizes the importance of embracing its interdisciplinary nature, which integrates various branches of healthcare for a holistic approach to treatment.
To learn more about Dr. Torre or to schedule an appointment at Sleep. Snoring & Sinus Clinic of Florida, visit www.sleepandsinus.com, scan the QR code, or call 954-998-4368.
ADr. Dayhana Pena Santiago
Family Medicine Physician Proper Health and Wellness Inc.
s a dedicated healthcare provider, Dr. Pena Santiago takes a holistic approach to care, addressing not only the physical needs of patients but also their emotional and psychological well-being. With a focus on comprehensive, patient-centered care, Dr. Pena Santiago is committed to fostering a welcoming environment where each individual feels heard, supported, and understood. In addition to providing top-quality medical care, she manages the operations of her practice and keeps up with the latest advancements in medicine.
"I chose a career in family medicine because it allows me to build lifelong relationships with my patients," says Dr. Pena Santiago. "I love engaging in meaningful conversations, understanding their concerns, and being constantly in their health journey." This emphasis on communication ensures that each patient feels heard and understood.
For Dr. Pena Santiago, the most rewarding part of the job is witnessing the positive transformations in patients' lives. "Seeing a patient regain their health, confidence, or quality of life because of the care we provide is incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about treating an illness; it’s about helping people live their best lives."
However, the path to becoming a healthcare provider hasn’t always been easy. Early in her career, Dr. Pena Santiago struggled to balance professional dedication with personal well-being, sometimes leading to burnout. "I’ve since learned that taking care of myself is essential to being the best healthcare provider I can be. This understanding has made me more empathetic and effective in my role."
As for advice to patients, Dr. Pena Santiago emphasizes the importance of family medicine. "Family medicine is not just part of healthcare but the cornerstone. We have the privilege of knowing your overall health, from routine check-ups to more complex issues. We're here to help you prevent and manage illness through personalized care, and we collaborate closely with other specialties to ensure you receive comprehensive, coordinated care." This emphasis on family medicine should reassure potential patients of the comprehensive and coordinated care they will receive.
To learn more about Dr. Pena Santiago or to schedule an appointment at Proper Health & Wellness visit www.properhw.com, scan the QR code, or call 754-888-9088.
OCTOBER UPDATE
By Mayor Josh Levy
Hello Our City Hollywood Readers,
I’m excited to share the highlights of our City’s Operating Budget for the new fiscal year, which began on October 1st and runs through September 30, 2025. The Operating Budget is a critical tool for defining our city’s strategic priorities and organizational structure. It details our revenue sources, analyzes departmental expenditures, sets service objectives, and includes performance measures. It also provides essential economic and financial forecasts that guide our decisions on long-term planning, reserve levels, infrastructure investments, and the organization of city programs and services. These elements are vital for the sound management of our public resources.
I’m pleased to report that Hollywood continues to experience robust economic growth, which is allowing us to fully fund and expand the programs and services we provide to our residents and businesses. This sustained growth over the past eight years has also enabled us to reduce the city’s overall property tax rate for the first time in 15 years—a decrease of 0.0714 mills. My goal is to continue reducing the city’s tax rate and fees in the coming years. While operating costs have increased, much like the cost of living in South Florida, we remain committed to making Hollywood more affordable for everyone.
This year’s budget reflects a strong commitment to enhancing public safety, maintaining a cleaner and more resilient city, improving customer service, investing in our public infrastructure, and ensuring the quality of life in our neighborhoods. Here are some key highlights:
Ensuring a Safe City
The FY 2025 budget builds on our ongoing investments in public safety with the following initiatives:
• Adding 10 new sworn police officer positions.
• Establishing the Office of Emergency Management.
• Implementing the School Zone Enforcement Program.
• Expanding the use of license plate readers to aid in crime prevention and investigations.
• Adding a Public Safety Psychologist to support the mental health needs of our first responders.
• Introducing a Public Information Officer within the Fire Department.
• Funding for police technology, as well as fire engine and ambulance replacements.
Creating a Clean & Resilient City
We’re investing in services that support a cleaner, more resilient Hollywood:
• Creating 4 new Stormwater Technician positions and increasing funding for stormwater pump rentals to better respond to storms and weather events.
• Adding 2 new Parks Groundskeepers.
• Funding for the Sustainability Master Plan.
Enhancing Customer Service
Our commitment to excellent service includes:
• Implementing new Accela permitting software to streamline the building permit process.
• Adding 11 new positions in the Building Division to expedite permit issuance.
• Launching a new training platform for City employees.
• Introducing AI tools on our website to enhance public interaction and establishing a new resident benchmarking study to improve our performance.
Investing in Infrastructure & Facilities
We continue to prioritize infrastructure and facility improvements, including:
• Investing in road and alleyway resurfacing.
• Repairing and upgrading the Radius, Garfield, and Van Buren Garages.
• Annual ADA upgrades and the implementation of the Dune Master Plan.
• Maintenance, replacement, and repair of elevators, HVAC systems, and roofs.
• Allocating $57.8 million to existing Public Utilities projects, including city-wide stormwater improvements, the A1A Stormwater Pump Station, and emergency lift stations.
• Committing $33.4 million to new Public Utilities projects such as stormwater pump upgrades and floodplain management.
Supporting Quality of Life and Strong Neighborhoods
Our budget supports the well-being, affordability, and sustainability of our city:
• Investing in neighborhood traffic calming, lighting, and parks facilities.
• Funding the first-year operations of the new Armory Community Center at Dowdy Field.
• Adding veterinary services to our Code Compliance department.
• Creating new positions for an Engineering Analyst and Mobility Coordinator to assist with traffic calming efforts.
There’s much more in the works, and you can explore the full details of the budget on the city’s website at www.hollywoodfl.org. It’s an honor to serve as your mayor and bring these positive changes to our community. Wishing all Hollywood families happy holidays and all the best.
