American Legion Post 144 of Miami Lakes celebrated Independence Day with a barbecue at Veterans Park.      Shown from left are Gerry Olano, a Post Service Officer; Alvaro Hernandez, Post Sgt. at Arms; Post members William Knickerbocker and Ken Boyd; Post Commander Gary Cardenas; Post Vice Commander Fred Senra; Howard Sanchez, a veteran who works for sponsor Well Care; Post members Orlando Menendez, Chris Wilson...

        When new businesses open in town, elected officials and the Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce welcome them with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.  At the Eli M. Boutique, 6608 Main St. on June 15 are from left in front: Miami Lakes Elderly Affairs Committee member Pedro Fiallo; Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce member Norma Martinez; Chamber President Fred Senra; Melissa Caballero Alton, president of Business...

Steve Kretsch  Owner, Island Fin Poké Restaurant  Coral Gables      “Best part of the summer is opening my store in Royal Oaks Plaza,” Steve Kretsch said. Adriana Vila Soto  Financial professional Miami Lakes      “Spending time with family, doing some traveling and having some friends over in this beautiful town,” Adriana Vila Soto...

     The 3rd Annual Pride Awareness booth at the Miami Lakes Farmer’s Market on June 24. The group distributed literature and rainbow-themed items. That was followed by a night of performance -- short original plays, monologues, poetry and music -- at the Main Street Players theater.     Shown in the photo are from left: Suzanne Choopani; Stefan Crotti; Charles James; Manny Tejeda and Star Rodriguez. Sponsors...

     Amazonia Nikkei Fusion, a stylish new restaurant on Main Street, takes diners on a culinary journey.       And that trip begins with the setting: Elegant emerald crushed velvet chairs; gold accents; rich dark wood tables; softly lit paper lanterns over the bar and sophisticated pop playing over the sound system.      On a hot day, the scene is cool.      ...