Welcome to a new column called “IN THE LOOP” that will balance satire and topical news stories from Hollywood and beyond.
Having worked in the media, both in Hollywood, California and Hollywood, Florida, I’m convinced there is no monopoly on fruits and nuts among the populous.
To get the scoop on your hometown or sound smart at a party, just read my column every month.
PEOPLE & POLITICS
To start with my observations, I recently attended a buffet breakfast sponsored by the Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. The keynote speaker was Mayor Peter Bober who gave the annual “State of the City” address. Throughout his speech, the Mayor spoke about the challenging economic times for Hollywood’s 143,000 residents.
Another issue the Mayor discussed was SR 441, in which he advocated infrastructure improvement. “The City Commission has worked to encourage property owners to form a civic association,” he said. “There are many steps that need to be taken in the revitalization of SR 441.”
Have you seen those pawn shops on this commercial thoroughfare? I’ve hit buzzers on several locked iron doors just to get inside these unctuous businesses. The salesmen resemble Ted Nugent; it’s a shopping experience where one must have an attitude. Beautification might help to soften the image with daffodils or birds of paradise growing outside in brick planters.
Well it's official – Hollywood has a “Red Light District!” I know what you’re thinking…streetwalkers and traffic slowing down to have a look. However, that’s not the case. The City has joined the list of South Florida cities that have installed traffic cameras at key intersections to catch unsuspecting drivers who run red lights. Intended to curb traffic violations and promote motor safety, the City will also add new revenue to its coffers. This might help balance the budget. If you feel these cameras are controversial and believe Big Brother is expanding, heed the warning, and look at as another way to get into the Hollywood film industry.
PLACES
If you’re searching for a place to possibly shoot a scene for a movie, Hollywood has its own unique, movie-worthy hotspot. Have you been to the renowned Le Tub Saloon – a zany, outdoor, tropical hamburger place with porcelain bath tubs and toilets used as garden planters – on Hollywood Beach? The eatery has been around before the original “Miami Vice.”
And, when visiting Downtown Hollywood, come to expect a lively atmosphere as well. The international flavor of fine restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries will be especially busy Sunday, March 13 for the annual St. Patty’s Day Parade. And then on March 25 Downtown hosts Relay For Life at the ArtsPark on Young Circle. Participants have already raised over $10K at press time. Call Lauren Welch to sign up today 954-200-7532. My prediction: this stretch of upbeat activity will be the next Las Olas Boulevard.
So you’ve visited the beach and Downtown Hollywood, but how many times have you driven along I-95 near Griffin Road and noticed that old fashioned wooden roller coaster on the eastside of the freeway? That is Boomers, and it is the only amusement park in our neck of the woods. Not since Pirates World has there been a place packed with more fun and excitement. For a $12 ticket, a rider gets four hours of unlimited rides on the roller coaster, and Boomers also has miniature golf, bowling, batting cages and go karts.
Exciting news! Hollywood has a new way to travel. You can now cruise to Hollywood’s hot spots by Water Taxi. An adult all day pass is only $20 (unlimited rides all day). Water you waiting for?!
And speaking being taken for a ride, what is going on at the Yellow Green Farmer’s Market on Taft Street? After all the red tape leading to it’s official opening, is it living up to all the initial hype? We’ll discuss that and much more next time - - - In the Loop.
Send comments and ideas to dmu088@aol.com or post online at www.hollywoodgazette.com.
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Good luck, I'll be reading
Barry