This morning's Orlando Sentential published three stories that made me sad because they were, in my mind, furthering the crazy stereotype that we Floridians seem to love to project.
1. Law to Band Marriage Before Age 16 - The youngest person to marry in Florida in the past two years was a 13 year old boy. In 2013, Florida recorded 110 marriages of children 16 and younger, and 150 such marriages in 2012. If this new law goes through 16 and 17 year olds can still marry with their parents' consent.
Now if we could only stop the 13 year olds from having babies I would be relieved. That's the main reason they're now getting married.
2. Law to Band "Revenge-Porn" - In case you don't know, some couples seem to think it's a good idea to take intimate photos and make intimate films of themselves. Then, after the big breakup, these things appear on Facebook and other social media.
I want you couples to think about how smart it is to make these films. Even porn stars have good lighting and directing. These homemade ones are sad and scary and can wreak your life.
3. Trials Set for Motorcycle Gangs - The murder trials are set for four Philly Warlocks gang members charged with murdering three members of the Orlando Warlocks. While not laws, the judge as set down some rules for the trial: No one attending the trial can wear gang colors, patches and insignia. But she said "no" to the request that jurors be referred to by number instead of name. These guys scare everybody, especially jurors. "Tin Man" is being accused of killing "Lil Dave," "Hormone, " and "Dresser." By the way, these are all middle aged men.
I love Florida. But this stuff makes me crazy.
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