The Helping Hands column profiles 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 Public Safety  Founded April 14, 2009 Chair Nancy Rogers Vice Chair Johnny Torres Members Omar Gonzalez,...

     U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Doral, awarded the Congressional Veteran Commendation to Miami Lakes veterans Christopher Valdes, retired Chief Petty Officer with the U.S. Coast Guard, and Hector Garcia Jr., retired Lt. Col. with the U.S. Air Force.      American Legion Post 144 Commander Gary Cardenas nominated  Valdes and Garcia Jr., who both belong to the legion.      ...

     For more than two decades, a petite grandmother of five has challenged Miami Lakes councilmembers about their decisions, adherence to the town charter or on plans that she feels are headed in the wrong direction.      Mirtha Mendez, 76, while often lugging a hefty binder filled with notes, is a regular presence at the podium during the public comment phase of town meetings.      ...

     The Town of Miami Lakes and its Cultural Affairs Committee is holding a contest to celebrate residents’ best love stories.      Send 250 words or less about your romance to https://bit.ly/3IKJfG7 by 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 25.      Winners will be eligible for gift cards to use at local restaurants. Couples will also be featured on the town’s social media pages...

     Sixteen residents have registered their golf carts with the town since a law went into effect last fall.      But Councilwoman Marilyn Ruano said some golf cart operators are not abiding by the rules.      “It’s been brought to my attention by several Miami Lakes residents that there is golf cart nuisance in the community,” Ruano said during the Jan. 10 council...