Magnet Schools of America recognized eight area schools with National Magnet Merit Awards.      The Miami-Dade County Public Schools won 97 awards overall – 61 for Excellence while 36 were Schools of Distinction -- more than any other district in the country, school officials said.      The local Schools of Distinction are American Senior High School; Palm Springs Middle School and...

     The Graham Companies began the year by recognizing two executives in its Hospitality Division: David Healy and Danny Martinez.      David Healy was named president of Graham Hospitality, where he oversees 131 employees.       Healy joined The Graham Companies in 2003 as controller for Graham Hospitality.       Over two decades, his leadership, operational...

     Councilman Alex Sanchez is a candidate for Seat 4 in the Nov. 3 election.       Sanchez, 42, was appointed to the seat in 2024; it was previously held by Josh Dieguez, who was elected mayor.       In 2016, Sanchez filed to run for the council but withdrew from the race, according to town records. This year’s race is his first time campaigning for the...

     The Miami Lakes Athletic Club made its annual donation to The Women’s Breast & Heart Initiative. Andrea Ivory, founder of the non-profit that is based in Miami Lakes, accepted the $500 check on Jan. 28 at the fitness center.  Club members donated to the cause in October and received information about breast cancer prevention and awareness bracelets. The partnership has existed for over 15 years, Miami...

    The Miami Lakes Food & Wine Festival was a draw once more this year, for ticket holders and those who wished they were.       Guests lined up 40 minutes early in the cool night air to get into the festival that featured 27 restaurants and food vendors and 26 vintners and beverage companies.       As the night progressed, residents in the nearby Windmill Gate community lined up...