Retired U.S. Marine Col. William G. Perez drew from his extensive military experience to share with the Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce how the U.S. government protects American commerce and banking around the world.      “Without good national security, you do not have a business here,” Perez told 50 business owners and veterans at the Miami Lakes Hotel on Main on Nov. 8.   ...

     Over 40 organizations joined the Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce for its annual Networking Business Expo on Nov. 2.       Representing the breadth of industries in the area were three colleges; seven community service groups; three non-profits; eight restaurants, suppliers and caterers; banks, credit unions and real estate companies; insurance firms; health clubs and medical...

     On Oct. 17 and Oct. 20, the Graham Companies sent two teams of employee volunteers to work on a home it sponsored for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami.  The volunteers installed baseboards, trimmed windows and landscaped the property around the mint green house in northwest Miami-Dade County. The highlight after two days of volunteering was the home dedication for new owner Antoinette and her son....

 The second round of voting for Best of Miami Lakes closes on Nov. 11.  Winners will be announced on Nov. 20, right before Small Business Saturday.       Small Business Saturday happens the weekend after Thanksgiving to encourage shoppers to visit hometown merchants who are their friends and neighbors.      The nominees are:  • Best Café/Cup of Coffee  Mayor’s...

     Preparations for the 38th Annual Main Street Festival of Lights are underway, when Santa and his elves will brighten the byway with holiday cheer.      The Graham Companies’ traditional celebration to kick off the holiday season on Nov. 18 will give families a day and night of fun, all for free.       There will be DJs, choral groups from Miami Lakes schools, photos with Santa and...