Miami Lakers, thanks for following our posts on your neighborhood deals during the holiday season. We encourage any last minute shoppers to visit one of the many shopping centers near you to find that perfect gift and give back to your community. Happy Holideals and Happy Holidays to all from your friendly neighborhood newspaper, The Miami Laker.

• Miami Lakes Town Councilmembers Tim Daubert and Frank Mingo ran unopposed in the November 5 general election, while Councilmember Ceasar Mestre had to hit the campaign trial to defeat political novice Xiomara Pazos. According to the Miami-Dade elections department, Mestre, an attorney, mustered 65 percent (4,688) to retain Seat 6, while Pazos collected 35 percent (2,589) in the election which saw only 7,277 residents vote either at the...

  House Speaker Steve Crisafulli has named Representative Jose Oliva of Miami Lakes to serve as chairman of the House Economic Affairs Committee for the 2014-2016 Legislative Term. “Representative Oliva is a true leader in the Florida House,” Crisafulli said in making the announcement. “Strengthening our economy is the most important issue for Floridians, and as a business man, he understands what it takes to create...

  Hundreds of teary-eyed Miami Lakes residents attended a candlelight vigil last Thursday in memory of 11-year-old Breanna Vergara, who died of an apparent heart attack after she collapsed during ballet class at Miami Dancity Studios in Miami Lakes. Her sudden death left people in disbelief, as they remembered a loving, bright and talented girl, who was revered by many at Miami Lakes Park West. Breanna passed away on Tuesday, December...

  Miami Lakes United Methodist Church launched the first Winterfest in 2013 as a follow up to the popular Pumpkin Patch and is pleased to announce its return this winter.  Beginning November 28 through December 24, Winterfest will feature free daily admission, Christmas Tree sales, and scheduled activities throughout the holiday season. The church invites all members of the community to stroll through the wonderland full of lights...