The opportunity to be a messenger in the Florida House of Representatives was a journey that I encourage anyone in high school to pursue.      It was a literal journey, as my family and I drove nine hours to the state Capitol in Tallahassee to spend a few days touring the area before I started my week of service. It was also a journey of  personal growth for me, as I overcame nerves, and eventually...

    The Miami Lakes Neighborhood Improvement Committee hosted 24 cyclists on a bike ride around town on April 5 to support Autism Awareness Month. Lucia Toro, 4, kept up with the pack while riding her pink bike (with training wheels) while accompanied by her father, Derick Toro, and deputies. Free helmets donated by the Florida Dept. of Transportation were available for kids to ensure a safe ride. Mayor Josh Dieguez greeted...

     Parishioners, alumni and current and former parents of Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Parish came together on Feb. 22 for the 3rd Annual Dad’s Cheetah Slam that raised nearly $12,000 for the school. Twelve teams competed in a 3-on-3 basketball tournament and there were 3-point and free throw shooting contests too. The Miami Dolphins, Miami HEAT, Florida Panthers and Miami Marlins donated memorabilia that became...

   Business boosters in Miami Lakes celebrated the opening of Bossy Wellness and Aesthetics with a ribbon cutting and confetti on March 26.       “Thank you, Bossy Wellness, for considering Miami Lakes as your home,” said Rudy Blanco, legal counsel for the Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce. Owned by Juliete Misas, the new business at 6811 Main St. offers IV therapies; micro-needling; derma fillers;...

     A sophomore at Miami Lakes Educational Center is helping leaders in Miami-Dade County Public Schools further the use of artificial intelligence in the district.      Jacob Orellana, 15, interned last summer with School Board Member Roberto Alonso.       Alonso credits the teen with helping him draft a proposal to the board that brought the ethical use of artificial intelligence...