Recognitions for citizens, community organizations

Miami Lakes Bridge Club was acknowledged as one of the oldest “on-going” clubs in the town. The club was founded by Mary Barbieri in the 1970s, she is still an active member and meets with her fellow members at the Mary Collins Community Center every Monday at 11:45 a.m.
Bridge Club members range in age from the mid-60s to age 93 and for many members, playing bridge is a key part of their lives as it keeps them active. Dave Oliver accepted the recognition on behalf of the club.

Councilmember Manny Cid commended Manny Benaiges for her long history of education advocacy and volunteer work. She has served on multiple PTSA boards, raised funds for the Miami Lakes Middle School auditorium, and pushed for academic excellence at Barbara Goleman High School.

Cid also applauded Omar Gonzalez for his exceptional contribution to Miami Lakes through his generous volunteer work. He has served in the Miami Lakes Civic Association, Citizen’s Crime Watch, Public Safety Committee and Veterans Day Parade Committee.
Two years in a row, Gonzalez was nominated for the Citizen’s Involvement Award from Crime Watch and won the award in 2008. He is CERT certified and a graduate of the Citizen’s Police Academy.