The Florida League of Cities last week honored State Senator René Garcia (R-Hialeah/Miami Lakes) with a 2016 Defender of Home Rule Award at its 90th Annual Conference in Hollywood.“The award was presented to García for his tireless efforts during the 2016 legislative session to advance the League’s legislative agenda and protect the Home Rule powers of Florida’s cities. Recipients of the Defender of Home Rule...

Miami Lakes Branch Library announced the following programs are available for the public during September:For Children and Families:Paws to Read – This reading program aims to improve the literacy skills of children through the assistance of therapy dogs who serve as literacy mentors. Parents may bring a book or choose one from the library collection. Event is at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 10.Reading Ready Toddler Storytime –...

Cesar Odio, Miami Dade College’s winningest men’s basketball head coach, died following a nine-year battle with Leukemia.He was 58.Odio died last month surrounded by his family members.Odio spent seven years as the head coach for MDC, compiling a 128-85 school record.Odio then became the head coach for Barry University, where he spent the next 17 years, and became the most winningest men’s basketball head coach in school...

The year 2016 is more than a decade following the infamous Hurricane Katrina, the storm that is remembered as one of the most catastrophic in recent memory and U.S. history.Despite the relative calm in recent years, with exception of the heavy rainstorms last week from the low pressure system that passed south of Florida, and the deadly flooding in Louisiana, proper precautions should be routine. The hurricane season runs from June 1 through...

Mater Lakes Academy senior Jose Espejo, a member of the school’s Jazz Ensemble, was chosen to play in the Aspen Music Festival in Colorado this past June.Espejo, also a member of the Miami Music Project, was among six students who were picked to participate in the national youth orchestra by the National Take a Stand Festival.“Jose is a pleasure to have in class,” said Sterling Jones, Mater Lakes Academy band director....