The Helping Hands column focuses on the town’s 12 volunteer committees that promote various causes in Miami Lakes and help the town government serve the community.  Committee activities are funded by the town budget and by ticket sales from some events.  Committee: Cultural Affairs Committee Founded: Aug. 14, 2001 Chair: Neill Robinson  Vice Chair: Suzanne Choopani Members: Elsa Reus; Karla Acosta;...

The Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Town of Miami Lakes, is presenting the 22nd Annual Networking Business Expo on Nov. 3. The event is free and open to the public.  It’s an opportunity for business owners to present their enterprises to the community, and to connect with other companies in the area. There will be entertainment and games, and chances to win prizes and gifts. The cost is...

Mario Pinera Jr. is very involved in the community.   Whether it’s at one of the Miami Lakes committee meetings or at the Barbara Goleman Senior High football stadium (he’s a team booster), you’ve likely seen him volunteering around town.  Pinera Jr., 42, chairs the the Education Advisory Board; is a member of the Neighborhood Improvement Committee; is secretary of the Giving Gators charity and president of...

As the season of giving begins, there are two opportunities to help those who are less fortunate. The H.O.P.E. Mission Center, founded by Miami-Dade Commissioner Sen. Rene Garcia, is partnering with Lotus House, which provides housing and services for women and children. Through Sept. 23, the center will accept donations at 1490 W. 68th St. in Hialeah.  Lotus House needs: new/used purse; socks; underwear/sports bras;...

The Women’s Breast & Heart Initiative of Miami Lakes is hosting its 6th Annual Pink Walk – 5K Run and Walk on Sunday, Sept. 25. The setting is Miami Dade College’s North Campus, and there is an opportunity for participants to race virtually, too.  The goal of the non-profit organization -- which provides disease prevention and early detection services to at-risk women, low-income populations and college...