On the third day of early voting at the Mary Collins Community Center in Miami Lakes, torrential downpours and flooded parking lots didn’t deter voters huddled beneath umbrellas on a line that stretched toward Picnic Park West. There is a lot of energy and excitement at this polling place, where poll workers applaud first-time voters. Some voters shared their political passions and reasons for their choices as the line inched...

Former Miami-Dade County Mayor Alex Penelas on Tuesday endorsed Miami Lakes Councilwoman Marilyn Ruano in her bid for reelection on Nov. 3. Ruano, a 43-year-old accountant, is being challenged by political newcomer Raymond Garcia for Seat 3. Garcia has the backing of Miami Lakes Mayor Manny Cid. Cid appointed Ruano to the town council in 2017. Raymond, 48, is a health insurance manager and former member of the Miami Lakes...

The Town of Miami Lakes is enjoying the lowest crime rate of its 20-year history, according to Mayor Manny Cid. Cid credits additional police hires and license plate recognition cameras for the accomplishment. “Today our town is stronger than ever, and it continues getting stronger every single year,” Cid said. Cid’s comments came during his annual State of the Town address, which was held on Oct. 21 at Miami Lakes...

Former Miami-Dade Mayor Alex Penelas tested four candidates for town council with pointed questions during a debate held at Miami Dade College North Campus.Two of the hopefuls – business executives Tony Fernandez, 35, for Seat 1 and Ray Garcia, 48, for Seat 3, who is challenging incumbent Councilwoman Marilyn Ruano – were endorsed by Mayor Manny Cid.Cid appointed Ruano, 43, an accountant, to the town council in 2017 when then-Vice Mayor Tony...

It’s that time of year again: the 4th Annual “Best of Miami Lakes” awards are right around the corner. Now is your chance to show some love to your favorite small business.The Town of Miami Lakes and its Economic Development Committee are encouraging all residents to vote for their favorite shops, services and restaurants in the following categories:--Best Café/Cup of Coffee--Best Lunch Spot--Best Dinner Restaurant--Best Retailer--Best Beauty...