Restaurants in Miami Lakes that are struggling with restrictions on the number of patrons to just 50 percent capacity will soon have a new way to serve more diners. The town council decided to allow restaurants to provide seats at tables that can be set up on sidewalks and in parking lots. The new resolution was adopted May 19, and is to happen while the town’s state of emergency order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus is in...

Teresa Gonzalez wanted to congratulate high school graduates with a yard sign at her home in the Royal Oaks community. But the homeowner’s association said such signs or banners violated the bylaws of the community and codes in the Town of Miami Lakes. Royal Oaks’ management company began sending out warning letters. “It’s disheartening that they don’t allow parents and neighbors to keep the signs up to congratulate students,”...

Yes, it’s hurricane season. And yes, it’s starting while we’re in the middle of a pandemic. But we’re Miami Lakers. We’ve survived storms and we can prepare for what may come until the season that began June 1 ends Nov. 30. Make a list and get your survival kit ready. When we are under a watch for a tropical storm that may strike within 48 hours, at a minimum you’ll want to have gas, gas and cash. That is, fuel...

Jump squat, squat jump, whatever you want to call it, the goal remains the same! This exercise is a simple one you can do at home, using only your body weight. It strengthens the explosive aspect of the fast twitch muscle fibers in you’re the front of your thighs (the quadriceps), calves and buttocks (gluteus maximus). It will also improve the strength of your legs and help you jump higher and run faster. The jump squat can...

Coming soon to your mailbox: A form to request a Vote by Mail ballot from Miami-Dade County Elections. As the coronavirus outbreak lingers in South Florida, officials anticipate that more voters will want to cast their ballots remotely. And that process will begin this summer, as the Aug. 18 Primary Election approaches. Voters may fill out the paper form and mail it back in a prepaid envelope sent by the county or fill out the...