Fireworks for Freedom

Thousands joined Mayor Buddy Dyer in celebrating their nations independence this weekend.

Fireworks at Lake Eola Park, 4th July 2010

The City of Orlando held it’s the largest and longest-running fireworks show at Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando for the 32^nd time.

The preparation around the lake, were made difficult by rain pockets but the building crew were undeterred. Lake Eola’s historical fountain was struck by lightning last year and had recently been reconstructed.

Things to do

According to WFTV over 150,000 Floridians join news teams and radio stations like Power 95.3 in central Florida for the celebration from day to night.

There were two stages of live entertainment, from bands to Cartoon Networks Ben 10. There were various food stalls and plenty of standing room around the lake before the fireworks began.

The park flooded quickly around 4pm as family’s grabbed spots for picnics near the waterfront and the adults moved towards the two beer-gardens.

Fun with Power 95.3 before the fireworks

The extra revenue was welcomed as local venders sold burgers, fries and cold drinks at a time when tourism is down.

The Big Red Bus (Orlando Blood Centers) and Blue Cross Blue Shield offered free health screenings, back massages and opportunities to give blood.

Across the States

As the USA celebrated the day they were liberated from the British and many remember the Declaration of Independence, thoughts are cast to those serving overseas.

According to WFTV, soldiers in Bagdad celebrated by running 10kilometers through the streets, playing American football and having barbecues on base. Many called home to speak with loved ones.

Back in Washington,  President Barack Obama held a lawn party and invited his family and friends, those who have served and the families of those who are still serving amongst others.

During the South Lawn barbeque, the president spoke about the importance of freedom:

“We celebrate the principles that are timeless, tenets first declared by men of property and wealth but which gave rise to what Lincoln called a new birth of freedom in America – civil rights and voting rights, workers’ rights and women’s rights, and the rights of every American.”

Throughout the USA, Americans stood united to remember that their freedom was not free and they are thankful.

Teen accused of kidnapping

The teen was charged this evening with the false imprisonment of a child.

Shopping trolly

A 14-year-old Lake County boy is facing charges after the police say he attempted to kidnap toddler in an Orange County store.

Security footage from the Burlington Coat Factory store shows the suspect and the little girl inside together.

The girl, who wondered away from her mother, is seen talking with the boy and then following him out of the store.

Stranger Danger?

According to WFTV News, the security tape is the only evidence of this strange crime but the store investigators who interviewed the teen say they do not have any evidence to suggest he was trying to harm her.

“If there had been some other intent, then he would have been arrested for a kidnapping charge,” said Jeff Williamson from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office stated on this evening’s news.

Because the two children left the store, the false imprisonment charge was added. The video shows, the boy taking the girl by the hand and leading her away. This is why he was charged.

Mothers Actions

Two minutes elapse before the little girls mother leaves the store to look for her. She returns with her child followed by the young boy and his mother.

According to WFTV News, the boy was subjected to six hours of interviews before being charged with a second-degree felony. This means he could face between two and twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

“We went through the evidence over and over again just to make sure we were making the right decision, because this is a very young man’s life,” said Williamson to reports outside the crime scene.

Police who refuse to comment on why he acted this way is currently holding the boy’s statement. However, a spokesman for the boy’s family contacted WFTV News and said the boy was trying to help the girl find her family.

Documents Released In Bribery Case

Documents are released, as Commissioner Mildred Fernandez faces charges for corruption in Orlando.

The Orange County Courthouse, Orlando, Florida

Over 600 pages were released on Tuesday in connection with Orange County Commissioner Mildred Fernandez who was arrested in April 2010 for bribery, grand theft and accepting illegal campaign contributions.

According to the state, the transcripts contain conversations with undercover agents proving Commissioner Fernandez was breaking the law. Her lawyer disagrees and claims the evidence proves her innocence.

The Evidence

The State Attorney’s Office released statements made by Fernandez. They claim her campaign office informed developers in ways to give her money and make it appear legal.

It is alleged, the commissioner accepted illegal campaign contributions in exchange for fast-tracking development projects.

She faces 14 charges, including grand theft, accepting illegal contributions, bribery and racketeering.

Fernandez’s Defence

Fernandez’s lawyer, Tony Suarez, said she did nothing wrong outside Orange County Courthouse. He said it’s not illegal to ask for campaign contributions and she was trying to help a constituent.

“All lobbyist buy access, that’s what lobbyist do. It’s totally legal within our system to buy access to legislators,” Suarez told WFTV. “This is the most extreme use of prosecutorial power and interpretation of statue I have seen in my 33 years as a lawyer.”

The Commissioner has withdrawn from the Orange County mayor race and Governor Charlie Crist has decided against his 12-week window to replace the commission. His office has stated there is no official deadline or timetable.