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Way’s to Celebrate Father’s Day in Orlando

Jennifer Waggoner on June 15, 2016

What do you owe your dad? If you are like some people, the answer to that question is ‘everything.’ Knowing that you owe dad so much, you surely want to do something special for him on Father’s Day this weekend. Instead of the standard card and tie, why not take him out for an afternoon of bonding and good times?

Consider yourself lucky if you live in Orlando. There is a variety of things to do in and around the city that you and dad are sure to enjoy. Here are some of the best.

1. Golf

Take dad out on the links for Father’s Day. Walk Disney World resort is as popular for golf as it is for its famous mouse. You will find 99 holes of exceptional golf at the resort. You may also choose to head to Shingle Creek Golf Club on June 16 and 17, when dads play free with any full-paying family member.

2. Wekiwa Springs

Orlando is full of nature if you know where to look. Enjoy the cool, clear waters at Wekiwa Springs State Park in nearby Apopka. Relax on the bank, swim in the river or laze down the waters in a canoe. Another option is Blue Springs State Park in Orange County. Either choice is perfect for nature lovers.

3. The Beach

Grab a couple of good books, a blanket and a packed lunch and take dad to the beach. It’s an inexpensive and fun option if you want to just spend the day relaxing together. If you want to bring dad’s best four-legged friend along, visit Canova Beach Dog Park.

4. Dinner

Take dad out for a dinner on the town. There are several area restaurants that are running specials for Father’s Day. Everglades restaurant, Cafe Gauguin and Fogo de Chao all have great deals this weekend.

5. On the Cheap

You don’t have to break the bank to spend the day with your dad. There are a variety of attractions that are offering free admission to dad’s this holiday. Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orange County Regional History Center and Fantasy of Flight are all letting dads in for free.

Forget the cheesy gifts this Father’s Day. There is no excuse to give dad yet another tie when you have all of these great options in and around Orlando. Choose one that we have listed above, or use them for inspiration for your own adventure.

If you need criminal defense in Orlando, reach out to our team. We will review the details of your case at no cost to you and advise you of your options. Call now.

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Hate Crimes in Florida

Jennifer Waggoner on September 21, 2015

When it comes to hate crimes, Florida ranks number two in the nation, a distinction that is not in any way positive. There are currently 50 hate groups active in the state, and there were 124 such crimes in the log books by the end of 2013.

So what constitutes a hate crime? You may be charged with a hate crime if your target is chosen based on their race, religion, ethnicity, disability or sexual identity. Across the country, 5,928 hate crimes were reported in 2013, impacting 7,242 people. Officially, the FBI defines a hate crime as: A traditional offense like murder, arson, or vandalism, with an added element of bias.

According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, active hate groups in the Sunshine State include Nation of Islam, Ku Klux Klan and New Black Panther Party chapters. These groups are spread throughout the country. California leads the nation with 57 active groups.

Here are five facts about hate crimes you may not have been aware of:

1. At least 1 Latino person, 3 Jewish people, 3 gay people, 3 white people, and 8 black people will be the victims of hate crimes each day.

2. When it comes to hate crimes, approximately 47% are racially motivated, 21% are motivated by sexual orientation, 20% are motivated by racial bias, 12% are motivated by ethnic bias, and less than 1% are motivated by disability bias.

3. Someone in the United States commits a hate crime every hour.

4. Hate crimes are predominantly committed by persons between the ages of 15 and 24.

5. There is a cross burned somewhere in the United States each week.

If you are arrested and convicted for a hate crime, the punishment is more severe than you would have faced had the crime not been motivated by such biases. You may face longer prison time, harsher fines, and longer periods of probation. If you are the victim of hate crime or know about one, you can call 1-800-552-6843, Hate Crimes Hotline.

If you have been arrested for a crime, you need an experienced attorney at your side. Call our offices as soon as you are able and we will review the facts of your case. Our knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers will fight for your rights in court. Contact our offices today for your free initial consultation. We are here to defend you in the way you deserve.

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