by Lya Quintana Nuñez
The Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce hosted its monthly membership luncheon on August 13, 2025, at the Miami Lakes Hotel, formerly known as Shula’s. The event was led by Chamber President Ray Palacios alongside long-time Chamber leader and community advocate, Tico Casamayor.
This month’s featured speaker was James Kohnstamm, Director of Economic Development for Miami-Dade County. With a distinguished career leading more than 200 development projects, Kohnstamm has played a vital role in generating thousands of jobs and driving millions of dollars in new revenue for the county. During his presentation, he shared insights on entrepreneurship, business management, and strategies for positioning Miami-Dade as a global hub for investment and innovation. Kohnstamm emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening local economies and encouraged Miami Lakes businesses to remain engaged in shaping the future of commerce in the region.
The luncheon also recognized local achievements and organizations. Barbara Goleman Senior High School’s football team was featured at the spotlight table, selling merchandise and rallying support from the business community for their upcoming season. Additionally, young Miami Lakes resident Maurits Acosta was honored for his exceptional leadership. Acosta, who will soon begin studies at Harvard University, founded Virtutem Populo, a nonprofit that has raised more than $80,000 to promote civic engagement across Florida. His organization was also highlighted for its involvement in the Strive305 program, where it developed an economic fellowship designed to connect students with real-world commerce and research opportunities.
In a moving demonstration of its commitment to giving back, the Chamber closed the luncheon by awarding checks to several nonprofit organizations making a difference in the community. Among them was GiGi’s Playhouse, which provides educational, therapeutic, and career-development programs for individuals with Down syndrome, fostering inclusion and empowerment. 4KIDS Miami was also supported—an organization dedicated to providing safe, loving homes for children in foster care while offering hope and healing for families in crisis. Finally, the Chamber presented a check to Angels Reach Foundation, which serves children and young adults with autism and related disabilities through specialized programs that build independence and social skills.
These contributions reflected the Chamber’s philosophy that business growth and community well-being go hand in hand.
What began as a business luncheon became a broader celebration of leadership, opportunity, and service. With a focus on strengthening the local economy while lifting up organizations and young leaders, the Chamber underscored the powerful impact that comes when businesses and communities unite for a common good.
