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https://www.wogx.com/money/medical-debt-in-collections-credit-report
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Nearly 70% of medical debt in collections will be removed from credit reports, bureaus say
Medical debt is a costly burden that weighs on millions of patients who seek life-saving care — it's the leading cause of bankruptcy in America and the largest source of personal debt among consumers.
In an effort to support those who are faced with unexpected hospital bills, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion will soon remove nearly 70% of medical debt in collections from credit reports.
"Medical collections debt often arises from unforeseen medical circumstances," credit bureau executives said in a joint statement. "These changes are another step we’re taking together to help people across the United States focus on their financial and personal wellbeing."
Keep reading to learn more about the agencies' new policy around medical debt reporting, as well as how to pay off unpaid hospital bills in collections. You can also enroll in free Experian credit monitoring services through Credible.
CREDIT CARD CONSOLIDATION MAY SAVE YOU THOUSANDS AS PERSONAL LOAN RATES ARE AT RECORD LOWS
Removing medical debt from reporting may boost consumer credit scores
Beginning in July, paid medical debt in collections will no longer be included in credit reporting. And in the first half of 2023, the credit bureaus will no longer include medical collections debt under $500 on credit reports.
The agencies are also increasing the time period before unpaid medical bills would appear on a consumers' credit history to one year, up from six months previously. They anticipate the combined measures will remove nearly 70% of existing medical debt tradelines.
The decision came shortly after the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) released a report finding that unpaid medical bills account for 58% of debt in collections.
"Even when a patient tries to battle to get an accurate bill or an insurance claim paid, medical debt collectors have a weapon that is hard to fight against: the credit report," CFPB Director Rohit Chopra said.
While the credit bureaus have effectively dropped many types of medical bills from credit reporting, millions of consumers are still faced with debt in collections. If these bills remain unpaid, they could potentially result in negative credit score impacts after a one-year period. Third-party debt collectors may eventually pursue civil action to recuperate the costs, which can result in wage garnishment and attorney fees.
HOW YOUR STUDENT LOANS COULD BE IMPACTED BY THE FED RATE HIKE
How to pay off medical debt in collections
Although some medical collections debt will soon be dropped from credit reporting, consumers still owe the balance of their unpaid bills from prior health care services. Here are a few strategies for repaying medical debt in collections:
- Negotiate your medical bills with the provider or debt collector
- Utilize a medical financing card or 0% APR credit card
- Consolidate medical debts into a fixed-rate personal loan
Read more about each method in the sections below.
Negotiate your medical bills with the provider or debt collector
Patients may be able to settle their medical bills for less than they owe by negotiating with the collection agency that holds the debt. It may also be possible to enroll in an interest-free payment plan to spread your hospital bills into lower monthly installments. Here are a few negotiation tips from the CFPB:
- Ask the debt collector for a written notice about the origin of the debt and how much money is owed. You should also know the age of the debt, so you can see if it meets your state's statute of limitations.
- Propose a realistic debt settlement or repayment proposal. Calculate how much you can afford to pay each month, or see if you have enough money to settle the debt in a smaller lump-sum.
- Be honest about your situation, as you may have more room to ask for a discount if you have a long-term health condition or other financial burden. Take notes of your conversation with the creditor.
You can use a cost comparison tool like Healthcare Bluebook to research the average price of the service you received in your area, which may be used as leverage while you negotiate the balance in your collection account. And if you aren't confident in your own negotiation skills, you may consider enlisting the help of a nonprofit credit counselor to speak with your creditors on your behalf.
CREDIT CARD DEBT IS SURGING AT A RECORD-HIGH RATE, NY FED REPORTS
Utilize a medical financing card or 0% APR credit card
Some medical providers offer low-interest and no-interest financing options through a medical credit card like CareCredit. Keep in mind that these payment plans are typically offered through the original health care provider, not debt collectors. They also typically come with a high purchase APR if you don't adhere to the payment agreement.
Alternatively, you could consider opening a new credit card with a 0% APR purchase period. This may allow you to repay your medical expenses without paying interest for a period of up to 21 months. It's important to note that these offers are generally reserved for applicants with very good or excellent credit, defined by the FICO model as 740 or higher.
You can visit Credible to compare credit cards with 0% APR introductory offers.
LOOKING FOR A LIFE INSURANCE AGENT? HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE
Consolidate medical debts into a fixed-rate personal loan
One common way to repay debt is with an unsecured personal loan that you repay in fixed monthly payments over a set period of months or years. Since personal loans have fixed interest rates, they may offer more favorable repayment terms than variable-rate credit cards.
Personal loan lenders determine interest rates and eligibility based on a borrower's credit score. Applicants with excellent credit will qualify for the lowest rates possible, while those with bad credit may not be eligible at all.
To see if you're a good candidate, you can get prequalified for a debt consolidation loan with a soft credit check. You can also browse current interest rates in the table below, and use Credible's personal loan calculator to estimate your monthly payments.
REFINANCING REQUIREMENTS FOR A MORTGAGE: WHAT TO KNOW
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Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
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Personal loan rates edge up: Still lower than same time last year
Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as "Credible" below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders, all opinions are our own.
The latest trends in interest rates for personal loans from the Credible marketplace, updated weekly. (iStock)
Borrowers with good credit seeking personal loans during the past seven days prequalified for rates that were slightly higher for 3-year and for 5-year fixed rates compared to the previous seven days.
For borrowers with credit scores of 720 or higher who used the Credible marketplace to select a lender between Mar. 10 and Mar. 16:
- Rates on 3-year fixed-rate loans averaged 10.48%, slightly up from 10.43% the seven days before, and down from 11.16% a year ago.
- Rates on 5-year fixed-rate loans averaged 13.07%, slightly up from 13.01% the previous seven days, and down from 13.73% a year ago.
Personal loans have become a popular way to consolidate and pay off credit card debt and other loans. They can also be used to cover unexpected expenses like medical bills, take care of a major purchase or fund home improvement projects.
Rates for 3-year and 5-year fixed personal loans rose slightly over the past seven days. Rates for 3-year terms went up a slight 0.05%, while rates for 5-year terms increased by 0.06%. But rates for both terms remain well below average credit card interest rates, giving borrowers an opportunity to save on interest costs by refinancing credit card debt into a lower-interest personal loan.
Whether a personal loan is right for you often depends on multiple factors, including what rate you can qualify for. Comparing multiple lenders and their rates could help ensure you get the best possible personal loan for your needs.
It's always a good idea to comparison shop on sites like Credible to understand how much you qualify for and choose the best option for you.
Here are the latest trends in personal loan interest rates from the Credible marketplace, updated monthly.
Personal loan weekly rates trends
The chart above shows average prequalified rates for borrowers with credit scores of 720 or higher who used the Credible marketplace to select a lender.
For the month of February 2022:
- Rates on 3-year personal loans averaged 10.52%, down from 11.09% in January.
- Rates on 5-year personal loans averaged 12.99%, down from 13.40% in January.
Rates on personal loans vary considerably by credit score and loan term. If you're curious about what kind of personal loan rates you may qualify for, you can use an online tool like Credible to compare options from different private lenders. Checking your rates won't affect your credit score.
All Credible marketplace lenders offer fixed-rate loans at competitive rates. Because lenders use different methods to evaluate borrowers, it’s a good idea to request personal loan rates from multiple lenders so you can compare your options.
Current personal loan rates by credit score
In February, the average prequalified rate selected by borrowers was:
- 8.32% for borrowers with credit scores of 780 or above choosing a 3-year loan
- 29.42% for borrowers with credit scores below 600 choosing a 5-year loan
Depending on factors such as your credit score, which type of personal loan you’re seeking and the loan repayment term, the interest rate can differ.
As shown in the chart above, a good credit score can mean a lower interest rate, and rates tend to be higher on loans with fixed interest rates and longer repayment terms.
How to get a lower interest rate
Many factors influence the interest rate a lender might offer you on a personal loan. But you can take some steps to boost your chances of getting a lower interest rate. Here are some tactics to try.
Increase credit score
Generally, people with higher credit scores qualify for lower interest rates. Steps that can help you improve your credit score over time include:
- Pay bills on time. Payment history is the most important factor in your credit score. Pay all your bills on time for the amount due.
- Check your credit report. Look at your credit report to ensure there are no errors on it. If you find errors, dispute them with the credit bureau.
- Lower your credit utilization ratio. Paying down credit card debt can improve this important credit scoring factor.
- Avoid opening new credit accounts. Only apply for and open credit accounts you actually need. Too many hard inquiries on your credit report in a short amount of time could lower your credit score.
Choose a shorter loan term
Personal loan repayment terms can vary from one to several years. Generally, shorter terms come with lower interest rates, since the lender’s money is at risk for a shorter period of time.
If your financial situation allows, applying for a shorter term could help you score a lower interest rate. Keep in mind the shorter term doesn’t just benefit the lender — by choosing a shorter repayment term, you’ll pay less interest over the life of the loan.
Get a cosigner
You may be familiar with the concept of a cosigner if you have student loans. If your credit isn’t good enough to qualify for the best personal loan interest rates, finding a cosigner with good credit could help you secure a lower interest rate.
Just remember, if you default on the loan, your cosigner will be on the hook to repay it. And cosigning for a loan could also affect their credit score.
Compare rates from different lenders
Before applying for a personal loan, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare offers from several different lenders to get the lowest rates. Online lenders typically offer the most competitive rates – and can be quicker to disburse your loan than a brick-and-mortar establishment.
But don’t worry, comparing rates and terms doesn’t have to be a time-consuming process.
Credible makes it easy. Just enter how much you want to borrow and you’ll be able to compare multiple lenders to choose the one that makes the most sense for you.
About Credible
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Credible is a multi-lender marketplace that empowers consumers to discover financial products that are the best fit for their unique circumstances. Credible’s integrations with leading lenders and credit bureaus allow consumers to quickly compare accurate, personalized loan options ― without putting their personal information at risk or affecting their credit score. The Credible marketplace provides an unrivaled customer experience, as reflected by over 4,500 positive Trustpilot reviews and a TrustScore of 4.7/5.
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Today's mortgage rates: 30-, 20-year rates slip, shorter repayment terms hold steady | March 31, 2022
Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as "Credible" below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders, all opinions are our own.
Check out the mortgage rates for March 31, 2022, which are mixed from yesterday. (Credible)
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage refinance rates have fallen since yesterday, except for 10-year rates, which held steady.
- 30-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.625%, down from 4.875%, -0.250
- 20-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.500%, down from 4.750%, -0.250
- 15-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.875%, down from 4.000%, -0.125
- 10-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.750%, unchanged
Rates last updated on March 31, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary. With 5,000 reviews, Credible maintains an "excellent" Trustpilot score.
What this means: Refinance rates edged down across three key terms today, but with a spike in rates in recent weeks, 30- and 20-year terms are still at or above 4.5%. Mortgage refinance rates can fluctuate from day to day, so homeowners may want to act today to lock in a lower rate ahead of future increases.
Today’s mortgage rates for home purchases
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage rates for home purchases have fallen for two key rates since yesterday, while two other key rates remained unchanged.
- 30-year fixed mortgage rates: 4.750%, down from 4.875%, -0.125
- 20-year fixed mortgage rates: 4.500%, down from 4.750%, -0.250
- 15-year fixed mortgage rates: 3.875%, unchanged
- 10-year fixed mortgage rates: 3.750%, unchanged
Rates last updated on March 31, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary. Credible, a personal finance marketplace, has 5,000 Trustpilot reviews with an average star rating of 4.7 (out of a possible 5.0).
What this means: Although 30-year rates slipped overnight, this popular repayment term is still sitting near 5%. Buyers seeking a balance of a lower rate and lower monthly mortgage payment may look to 20-year rates, which are the lowest they’ve been in five days.
To find great mortgage rates, start by using Credible’s secured website, which can show you current mortgage rates from multiple lenders without affecting your credit score. You can also use Credible’s mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly mortgage payments.
How mortgage rates have changed over time
Today’s mortgage interest rates are well below the highest annual average rate recorded by Freddie Mac — 16.63% in 1981. A year before the COVID-19 pandemic upended economies across the world, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for 2019 was 3.94%. The average rate for 2021 was 2.96%, the lowest annual average in 30 years.
The historic drop in interest rates means homeowners who have mortgages from 2019 and older could potentially realize significant interest savings by refinancing with one of today’s lower interest rates. When considering a mortgage or refinance, it’s important to take into account closing costs such as appraisal, application, origination and attorney’s fees. These factors, in addition to the interest rate and loan amount, all contribute to the cost of a mortgage.
Are you looking to buy a home? Credible can help you compare current rates from multiple mortgage lenders at once in just a few minutes. Use Credible’s online tools to compare rates and get prequalified today.
Thousands of Trustpilot reviewers rate Credible "excellent."
How Credible mortgage rates are calculated
Changing economic conditions, central bank policy decisions, investor sentiment, and other factors influence the movement of mortgage rates. Credible average mortgage rates and mortgage refinance rates reported in this article are calculated based on information provided by partner lenders who pay compensation to Credible.
The rates assume a borrower has a 740 credit score and is borrowing a conventional loan for a single-family home that will be their primary residence. The rates also assume no (or very low) discount points and a down payment of 20%.
Credible mortgage rates reported here will only give you an idea of current average rates. The rate you actually receive can vary based on a number of factors.
Fixed vs. adjustable-rate mortgages: How they affect interest costs
Interest rates for fixed-rate mortgages don’t change over the life of the loan, but tend to be higher than the initial interest rate for adjustable rate mortgages, or ARMs.
Initial interest rates for ARMs are typically lower than fixed-rate mortgages. But after the end of an introductory period, your interest rate will change — and it could increase significantly. Introductory periods can vary from several months to a year or a few years. After the introductory period, your interest rate will be based on an index your lender specifies. ARMs may or may not cap how much your interest rate can increase.
If you’re trying to find the right mortgage rate, consider using Credible. You can use Credible's free online tool to easily compare multiple lenders and see prequalified rates in just a few minutes.
Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
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As a Credible authority on mortgages and personal finance, Chris Jennings has covered topics that include mortgage loans, mortgage refinancing, and more. He’s been an editor and editorial assistant in the online personal finance space for four years. His work has been featured by MSN, AOL, Yahoo Finance, and more.
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Savings window opens wider: 30-year mortgage refinance rates dip again | March 31, 2022
Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as "Credible" below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders, all opinions are our own.
Check out the mortgage refinancing rates for March 31, 2022, which are down from yesterday. (Credible)
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage refinance rates have fallen since yesterday, except for 10-year rates, which held steady.
- 30-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.625%, down from 4.875%, -0.250
- 20-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.500%, down from 4.750%, -0.250
- 15-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.875%, down from 4.000%, -0.125
- 10-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.750%, unchanged
Rates last updated on March 31, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary.
If you’re thinking of doing a cash-out refinance or refinancing your home mortgage to lower your interest rate, consider using Credible. Credible's free online tool will let you compare rates from multiple mortgage lenders. You can see prequalified rates in as little as three minutes.
What this means: Refinance rates edged down across three key terms today, but due to a rates spike in recent weeks, 30- and 20-year terms are still at or above 4.5%. Homeowners who want to refinance should consider a shorter term. Fifteen-year refinance rates may be especially appealing, as they’ve dropped to a four-day low. Mortgage refinance rates can fluctuate from day to day, so homeowners may want to act today to lock in a lower rate ahead of future increases.
WHAT IS CASH-OUT REFINANCING AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
How mortgage rates have changed over time
Today’s mortgage interest rates are well below the highest annual average rate recorded by Freddie Mac — 16.63% in 1981. A year before the COVID-19 pandemic upended economies across the world, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for 2019 was 3.94%. The average rate for 2021 was 2.96%, the lowest annual average in 30 years.
The historic drop in interest rates means homeowners who have mortgages from 2019 and older could potentially realize significant interest savings by refinancing with one of today’s lower interest rates.
If you’re ready to take advantage of current mortgage refinance rates that are below average historical lows, you can use Credible to check rates from multiple lenders.
How to get your lowest mortgage refinance rate
If you’re interested in refinancing your mortgage, improving your credit score and paying down any other debt could secure you a lower rate. It’s also a good idea to compare rates from different lenders if you're hoping to refinance so you can find the best rate for your situation.
Borrowers can save $1,500 on average over the life of their loan by shopping for just one additional rate quote, and an average of $3,000 by comparing five rate quotes, according to research from Freddie Mac.
Be sure to shop around and compare current mortgage rates from multiple mortgage lenders if you decide to refinance your mortgage. You can do this easily with Credible’s free online tool and see your prequalified rates in only three minutes.
How does Credible calculate refinance rates?
Changing economic conditions, central bank policy decisions, investor sentiment and other factors influence the movement of mortgage refinance rates. Credible average mortgage refinance rates reported in this article are calculated based on information provided by partner lenders who pay compensation to Credible.
The rates assume a borrower has a 740 credit score and is borrowing a conventional loan for a single-family home that will be their primary residence. The rates also assume no (or very low) discount points and a down payment of 20%.
Credible mortgage refinance rates reported here will only give you an idea of current average rates. The rate you receive can vary based on a number of factors.
Think it might be the right time to refinance? Be sure to shop around and compare rates with multiple mortgage lenders. You can do this easily with Credible and see your prequalified rates in only three minutes.
Can you negotiate refinance rates?
Negotiation is often possible in real estate transactions, and you may be able to work with your lender to negotiate a lower refinance rate.
Having a good to excellent credit score, low debt-to-income ratio and good income may help in negotiations. Being open to compromise may also help. For example, your lender may agree to a lower interest rate if you’re willing to pay mortgage discount points upfront.
The best way to ensure you get the lowest possible interest rate is to compare rates and loans from multiple mortgage lenders.
Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
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As a Credible authority on mortgages and personal finance, Chris Jennings has covered topics that include mortgage loans, mortgage refinancing, and more. He’s been an editor and editorial assistant in the online personal finance space for four years. His work has been featured by MSN, AOL, Yahoo Finance, and more.
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Disney World bringing back traditional character meet-and-greets
ORLANDO, Fla. - It's been a long time since Walt Disney World guests got a hug from Mickey Mouse – but the wait is almost over!
Disney announced on Thursday that traditional character meet-and-greets will be coming back to the parks next month!
The tradition was stopped for two years during the coronavirus pandemic. Last year, Disney brought back meet-and-greets, but with social distancing requirements.
According to Disney Parks Blog, regular character meet-and-greets will resume as early as April 18 at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, as well as aboard Disney Cruise Line and at Aulani Resort in Hawaii.
THEME PARK NEWS: 'Boozy Bunny' at Disney Springs is the Easter treat for grownups
"That’s right! Very soon, you will once again be able to hug Mickey Mouse, get an autograph from Mulan, and share a laugh with Goofy…We know many of you have missed these special moments, and your Disney character friends have missed you, too!"
THEME PARK NEWS: 'Disney H2O Glow After Hours' event returns to Typhoon Lagoon
Disney has been gradually working to get operations back to normal and bring back encounters that guests love, such as character dining experiences. The company says while not all locations will be available immediately, they anticipate reopening in phases in the coming months.
During its 50th anniversary celebration, Disney World recently welcomed back fan-favorite shows including "Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire" and "Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular," along with the Disney "Festival of Fantasy" Parade and new experiences like "Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade."
Orlando Weather: Storm alerts, live interactive radar, forecast, and more
Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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Florida authorities search for mom missing since Sunday; 4-year-old daughter found safe
NAVARRE BEACH, Fla. - Florida investigators are searching for a young mother who remains missing, although her 4-year-old daughter and her car have been located.
Cassie Catherine Carli, 37, was last seen at Navarre Beach in Santa Rosa County on Sunday evening, the local sheriff’s office said.
Carli and her 4-year-old daughter’s father were expected to meet to exchange custody around 7 p.m. Sunday near Juana’s Grill at Navarre Beach, local news station WEAR-TV reported. Carli’s father then received a text message around 10 p.m. from the young woman’s phone, stating that she was having issues with her phone and her car, according to the report. It was the last anyone has heard from her.
Carli’s friend told the news station her daughter’s father claimed to have dropped Carli at the friend’s house, which was reportedly not true.
NAOMI IRION, 18, FOUND DECEASED IN NEVADA AFTER BEING KIDNAPPED FROM WALMART PARKING LOT: POLICE
Carli is described as being 5-foot-5 inches tall and 150 pounds with blue eyes and blonde shoulder-length hair. She has pierced ears and a mole on her right cheek.
Spokespersons for the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request seeking information regarding the circumstances of the disappearance.
FLORIDA FREEFALL TEEN DEATH: RIDE SAFETY EXPERT HARNESS 'WAS NOT ON CORRECTLY'
So far, authorities have said they were able to confirm that Carli’s daughter was safe and have also recovered her vehicle.
The sheriff’s office has said the investigation remains "very active." They ask anyone with information to call their Major Crimes Unit at 850-983-1190.
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Florida Missing Child Alert issued for two Fort Myers teens last seen Saturday
FORT MYERS, Fla. - Florida law enforcement officials are searching for two teenagers who went missing from the Fort Myers area.
The Florida Missing Child Alert was issued late Thursday morning for 16-year-old Ashton Lyons-Bell and 17-year-old Arriana Robles. According to FDLE, both were last seen together Saturday in the 2400 block of Prince Street in Fort Myers. They are known to frequent the Port Charlotte area.
Fort Myers police said both take prescribed medications. Recently, they have made threats to harm themselves.
Lyons-Bell is described as a white male, 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighs 120 pounds, and has brown hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a black hoodie with the words, "HS Rifle Team JROTC" printed on it, blue jeans, and black and white Jordan sneakers.
Robles is described as a Hispanic female, 5 feet 2 inches tall, 125 pounds, and has brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black shirt, a blue zip-up hoodie, black pants and black Nike slides with black socks. She is possibly wearing glasses and may have a septum nose ring. Officials said she's short, curly hair and a heart-shaped tattoo on her left him.
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Officials did not provide details on what led up to their disappearance.
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Bruce Arians to be inducted into Buccaneers Ring of Honor
TAMPA, Fla. - The morning after Bucs fans learned that head coach Bruce Arians will be stepping down, it was announced he will be honored for his time with the team. Arians’ name will be joining the Ring of Honor.
During a Thursday press conference, the Bucs owner, Joel Glazer, made the announcement.
"You’re in the Ring of Honor," said Jason Licht, the general manager, "but you should be in the Hall of Fame"
Tom Brady was also in attendance during the news conference. Now, the legendary quarterback will be playing for Todd Bowles after the defensive coordinator was promoted as the coach’s successor.
PREVIOUS: Bruce Arians steps aside as Bucs head coach, defensive coordinator Todd Bowles to take over
Arians, a two-time cancer survivor, stepped down as coach of the Arizona Cardinals due to medical concerns in 2017, only to be lured back to the sideline by the then-struggling Bucs two years later. This time, he said, he exits feeling the best he has in "many years" and is looking forward to transitioning into a front-office position working with general manager Jason Licht.
"It’s been a great ride, thank you," Arians said Thursday.
Arians, who will turn 70 this coming season, coached the Bucs to the Super Bowl title in the 2020 season — Brady’s first with Tampa Bay. The Bucs were 31-18 in Arians’ three seasons there and he was 80-48-1 in eight years as a head coach overall when adding in five seasons with the Cardinals from 2013 to 2017.
Arians will be stepping into a new role as the team's Senior Football Consultant, according to team officials.
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Bowles becomes the sixth minority head coach currently in the NFL, joining Pittsburgh’s Mike Tomlin, Washington’s Ron Rivera, the New York Jets’ Robert Saleh, Houston’s Lovie Smith and Miami’s Mike McDaniel. He also is the fourth Black coach in Bucs’ history, joining Tony Dungy, Raheem Morris and Smith.
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'Batkid' stops 'The Joker' as charities make boy's dream come true
ORLANDO, Fla. - Batkid saves the day after The Joker kidnapped the Orlando Magic’s mascot, Stuff!
The young superhero stopped the villain with help of Batman and the Batmobile.
"I'm a big hero," said Batkid.
Batkid has allowed us to reveal his identity. His name is Masai Wheeler. His dad tell us he is a miracle.
"I wanna cry, but I’m holding it back," said Lance Wheeler, Masai's dad.
Masai, who just celebrated his sixth birthday this week, was born with a serious heart condition.
Give Kids The World Village, The Axel Foundation, and The Camaraderie Foundation teamed up with Orlando Police and Fire, and Seminole and Orange County Sheriff’s Offices to make the production a reality.
Orlando Weather: Storm alerts, live interactive radar, forecast, and more
Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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Florida man accused of tackling deputy, kissing stepsister, attacking parents
DELTONA, Fla. - A 22-year-old Deltona man is facing eight felony charges after tackling a deputy during a violent fight, according to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office. The alleged fight started when the suspect’s girlfriend said she saw him forcibly kiss his 16-year-old stepsister.
Investigators said the incident happened on March 29, which also happened to be the birthday of the suspect, Russell Slimon. A family member dialed 911 after the fight broke out.
"My stepdad is pulling a gun out on him. I’m scared ma’am. Please help me," said the caller.
Deputies drove up on the chaotic scene on Babcock Avenue where they found Slimon on the ground fighting another male.
"Hey everybody get on the ground now!" shouted the deputy.
The audio captured on his body camera. The deputy with his taser drawn appears to have the fight broken up when Slimon charges the officer
"It never had to happen," said Glenn Ford.
Ford still has bruises on his face and two fractured ribs from the fight with his step-son. He said it all started when he asked Russell to leave after Russell forcibly grabbed and kissed his stepsister.
"He grabbed the dog leash. I was sitting at the table like you saw me. He came behind me, pushed his mom out of the way, wrapped a leash around my neck, pulled me off the chair and started strangling me right there on the ground," said Ford.
Ford said he started to black out
"I thought I was going to die," said Ford.
The incident report states Russell also tried to "strangle" his mother when she tied to intervene. Ford said he got up and grabbed his shotgun which led the fight outside.
"He almost got shot here, and he almost got shot again and the cop told my wife he had every right to put him in his place with a gun because he was being strangled from behind," said Ford.
Russell is facing 10 charges including eight felonies. Some of those charges include battery, child abuse and resisting arrest.
Glenn hopes this incident gets his step-son the help he needs but in the meantime he is not allowed back at their home.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/florida-commissioner-suggests-killing-manatees-might-help-save-the-marine-species
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Florida commissioner suggests killing manatees might help save the marine species
BREVARD COUNTY - A commissioner in Brevard County is facing intense criticism from marine advocates after he suggested allowing people to kill manatees as a way to control their population – similar to hunting deer and bears in some states – and to protect the seagrass, a vital food source for the marine species.
Commissioner Curt Smith made the remarks last week at a county commissioner's meeting as a potential solution to protect the marine animals after 1,000 manatees reportedly starved to death in 2021 because of declining seagrass, setting a grim record (830 died in 2013, 637 died in 2020, according to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission).
The comments left marine and manatee advocates stunned.
"I was absolutely serious. I was serious. This is something that needs to be looked at. And we need people in this state to do exactly that," said Commissioner Smith, when he spoke to FOX 35 News on Thursday.
Manatees are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Endangered Species act, and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act. Harassing, hurting, or killing a manatee can come with state and/or federal penalties, including fines and/or jail time.
"It is just absolutely disgusting," said Stel Bailey, an environmentalist.
Activists said the main reason for the declining seagrass is pollution, climate change, and algae blooms.
Tama, a manatee at Blue Springs State Park, was found unconscious two weeks ago at the park and died. Advocates said the otherwise healthy sea cow had eaten fishing line.
"They are not addressing the source of pollution. They are just distracting from the real root causes of the problem, which is pollution in the Indian River lagoon," said Bailey.
One thing wildlife officials have learned during the winter experimental feeding program to help manatees avoid starvation is that if you feed them, they will come.
Manatees have eaten virtually all the estimated 160,000 pounds (72,500 kilograms) of lettuce provided at a warm-water power plant site where manatees typically congregate during cold months, officials said last week.
"They’ve eaten every scrap of food we’ve put out," said Scott Calleson of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
It wasn’t clear the manatees would eat the lettuce when the unprecedented program began in December. But officials said that since Jan. 20 the slow-moving marine mammals have feasted on the food made necessary after more than 1,100 manatees died largely from starvation last year, the worst year for the threatened species on record.
"The environmentalists that have tried to get the manatee population up, they’re almost a victim of their own circumstances because they’ve been too successful," Smith added.
Through March 11 of this year, about 420 manatee deaths had been confirmed, still an alarmingly high number.
Over 7,500 manatees live in Florida waters. While they are listed federally as a threatened species, there are efforts to give them the heightened endangered designation.
"I love manatees. Everybody loves manatees. Back in 2000, there were only 2,000 manatees. Now the count’s like 8,000. How many are enough?"
Anyone who sees a distressed or dead manatee should call FWC’s wildlife hotline at 888-404-3922.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/gov-desantis-broaches-repeal-of-disney-worlds-decades-old-self-governing-status-in-florida
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Gov. DeSantis broaches repeal of Disney World's decades-old self-governing status in Florida
Florida’s Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis addressed on Thursday the suggestion of repealing a 55-year-old state law that allows Disney to effectively govern itself on the grounds of Walt Disney World, following the company’s public opposition to a controversial parental rights law in Florida.
"What I would say as a matter of first principle is I don’t support special privileges in law just because a company is powerful, and they’ve been able to wield a lot of power," DeSantis said during a press conference in West Palm Beach, Florida on Thursday.
Disney has been engaged in a war of words with Republicans in Florida leading up to Monday’s signing of the controversial bill, which prohibits classroom instruction on "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" with children in third grade or younger "or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards."
DeSantis referenced a bill reining in big tech that Republicans were working through the legislature last year when Disney added a "carve out" at the "11th hour" for theme parks.
"I’m thinking to myself, ‘This is ridiculous,’" DeSantis said. "Honestly, it was embarrassing."
DeSantis continued, "I think what has happened is there’s a lot of these special privileges that are not justifiable, but because Disney had held so much sway, they were able to sustain a lot of special treatment over the years."
DeSantis said that Disney has "lost a lot of the pull that they used to have" over the company's reaction to the parental rights law and said he thinks that’s a "good thing for our state because the state should be governed by the best interest of the people."
"I would say any special privileges that are in law I would like to get rid of generally," DeSantis added. "I think in this particular case with Disney, I just don’t think you have very many people in the legislature anymore who are going to be able to defend a lot of what has been done over many years to really have them almost govern themselves in some of these things. That was probably never appropriate to start, but is certainly not appropriate now at this point."
Cinderella Castle under construction (Photo from DisneyParks Blog)
"Yesterday was the 2nd meeting in a week w/fellow legislators to discuss a repeal of the 1967 Reedy Creek Improvement Act, which allows Disney to act as its own government," Roach tweeted. "If Disney wants to embrace woke ideology, it seems fitting that they should be regulated by Orange County."
After DeSantis signed the school-related bill this week, Disney released a statement slamming the legislation.
"Florida’s HB 1557, also known as the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill, should never have passed and should never have been signed into law," Disney said. "Our goal as a company is for this law to be repealed by the legislature or struck down in the courts, and we remain committed to supporting the national and state organizations working to achieve that. We are dedicated to standing up for the rights and safety of LGBTQ+ members of the Disney family, as well as the LGBTQ+ community in Florida and across the country."
The bill has been dubbed the "Don’t Say Gay" bill by Democrats and media outlets, though it does not ban mention of the word.
DeSantis responded to Disney’s Monday criticism and said the company "crossed the line."
"This state is governed by the interest of the people of the state of Florida. It is not based on the demands of California corporate executives," DeSantis said. "They do not run this state. They do not control this state."
Recent polling has shown that the bill is popular among Florida voters, including 52% of likely voters in the Democratic primary who say that they oppose the kind of teaching that the bill prohibits.
GET UPDATES ON THIS STORY AT FOXNEWS.COM
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https://www.wogx.com/news/spacex-targeting-friday-afternoon-for-launch-of-transporter-4-mission
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SpaceX targeting Friday afternoon for launch of Transporter-4 mission
LAKE MARY, Fla. - SpaceX is targeting Friday afternoon for the launch of a Falcon 9 which will carry the Transporter-4 mission to a sun-synchronous orbit.
The launch window opens at 12:24 p.m. ET for liftoff at Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
The Falcon 9 will fly on a southern trajectory along Florida’s eastern coast and may be visible from the ground, SpaceX says.
Falcon 9’s first stage booster previously launched Crew-1, Crew-2, SXM-8, CRS-23, IXPE, and one Starlink mission. Following stage separation, SpaceX will land Falcon 9’s first stage on the Just Read the Instructions droneship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.
Transporter-4 is SpaceX’s fourth dedicated smallsat rideshare mission.
"On this flight are 40 spacecraft, including CubeSats, microsats, picosats, non-deploying hosted payloads, and an orbital transfer vehicle carrying spacecraft to be deployed at a later time," SpaceX says.
The weather could be a factor in Friday's launch. As of early Thursday evening, there was a 30% chance of favorable liftoff conditions.
If the rocket is a "go for launch," we will stream it live on FOX35Orlando.com and the FOX 35 News App.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/state-senator-looking-to-take-action-to-make-amusement-rides-more-safe
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Orlando FreeFall ride death: State Senator looking to take action to make amusement rides safer
ORLANDO, Fla. - Florida State Senator Linda Stewart is keeping a close eye on the investigation into how 14-year-old Tyre Sampson fell to his death from Orlando FreeFall, the drop tower amusement ride at ICON Park.
"It is just really drove a stake in my heart," Stewart said. "We have to do something."
She’s read through documents released this week by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Now she’s waiting for their official investigative reports to see what went wrong. "That will give us direction on where we need to go," Senator Stewart said.
As FOX 35 News first reported, according to the ride manufacturer’s manual, the maximum weight limit for riders on the Orlando Free Fall is 287 pounds. Sampson’s father told FOX 35 News that the teen weighed 340 pounds, which would be 53 pounds over the weight limit.
"I don’t see how anyone visually can look at a person and determine how much they weigh. So I think that’s one thing we need to look into if there’s some kind of pad or weight thing they can step on it’s a green light if they’re under. Red light if they’re not, and they’re not able to get on the ride," Stewart said.
Earlier this week, Brian Avery, an independent ride consultant and lecturer at the University of Florida told FOX 35 News there’s a loophole in Florida code where venues do not have to post weight requirements on signs outside the ride unless the ride manufacturer say in their manual that it needs to be done. Stewart said requiring weight limits to be put on signage at all amusement rides could be something to look into as well.
"I think a sign is helpful. I think a lot of people will look at that and if you’re over the limit you won’t want to risk your life," Senator Stewart said.
Another item that’s caught her attention, a letter from Funtime, the ride’s manufacturer to the state of Florida that read, in part, "It is no need for an extra safety or seat belt because the seat and restraint system fulfill more than the requirements."
If the Florida Department of Agriculture doesn’t make a change here, Stewart said she will work to get one.
"No matter what the manufacturer’s say, they could say in Florida you’re going to have a seatbelt. Just because the manufacturer says you don’t need one doesn’t mean we can’t require one," Stewart said.
Bill Kitchen is the founder and CEO of US Thrill Rides. He designs and builds amusement rides for a living. He agrees with Senator Stewart on the need for seatbelts on rides.
"It's my opinion that this would have prevented that accident," Kitchen said.
Senator Stewart says right now it’s too soon to take legislative action, but as soon as the final investigative reports come out, she’ll be ready to write legislation to protect locals and tourists on amusement rides.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/bucket-list-wedding-girl-battling-terminal-cancer-gets-married-after-celebrating-early-graduation-prom
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Bucket list wedding: Teen battling terminal cancer gets married after celebrating early graduation, prom
CHINO HILLS, Calif. - A Chino Hills teenager is checking items off of her bucket list after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, and one of the things she wanted most was to get married to the man she loves.
Addison Conely, 17, married Sebastian Snitily, 19, in a wedding ceremony in San Diego Wednesday.
"They met almost seven years ago on a houseboat. It was love at first sight. She loved him. He was a little hesitant for a minute, but he definitely liked her and they've been the best of friends," said Staci Berry-Conely, Addison's stepmother.
The two exchanged vows in front of their friends and family in an intimate ceremony followed by a reception. The Conelys said they always envisioned this day for their daughter.
"We are completely overjoyed. This is the love of her life, and it is our job as parents to support her in every wish that she has and with cancer being a big part of our lives now, we just live every day to the fullest," said Staci.
Christopher said he was excited to see his daughter happy.
"It's a very joyous moment. It's a hard moment. It's a little earlier than we all expected but with the situation in our life, it's the right thing to do right now," said Christopher.
Snitily's father served as the officiant for the wedding.
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The wedding was one of the top items on Addison's bucket list.
"The wedding was originally scheduled for next May until her cancer came back so in two weeks, my beautiful wife and her friends put this together, so we could be here today [Wednesday]," said Christopher.
Addison has acute myeloid leukemia. The 17-year-old was told in mid-March that her cancer had returned 72 days after a bone marrow transplant/transfusion surgery.
She was first diagnosed in June 2021.
"I didn’t think that it was real," said Addison. "A couple months later, then it kind of hit me that this is actually real life."
Addison has been receiving treatments while also finishing high school. Doctors have told Addison that she may not live much longer, though she is undergoing new chemotherapy treatment.
"By the grace of God, the chemo is working right now but the doctor is quick to tell us it could change at any moment, but we are taking this for what it is right now. We're just doing everything we can to save our baby," said Staci.
The Chino Valley community held a special cap and gown ceremony for a high school senior last week, three months ahead of Chino Valley High's regular ceremony. On Saturday, she and a group of her friends had an early prom at Newport Beach. Her family has also helped her accomplish other bucket list items.
"A hot air balloon ride, we did that. We were able to go to Las Vegas. She wanted to go zip-lining, so we did that. She wanted to go off-roading, so we did that. She wanted a puppy, and we did that," said Staci.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Girl with terminal cancer celebrates early graduation, prom
Christopher and Staci said Addison still wants to go to Hawaii and Bora Bora, but her top bucket list item is complete.
"It was her dream [to get married]. It was on her bucket list. When we first decided to do her bucket list, it was the first thing she said, get married, so this is a big deal," said Christopher.
Rachel Peniche, a San Diego Chapter Board Member of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, was at the wedding, serving as a planner, and also spreading awareness about leukemia.
"We really work to get patients access to the care that they need so we advocate for more access to treatment, and research. There are many types of blood cancer. Addison's form, AML, is a very rare form of leukemia and we just want there to be more access for people, more cures and more treatments," said Peniche.
Peniche also stressed the importance of blood donations.
"That is literally their [cancer patients] lifeline, blood, so if people can donate [it is necessary]. I know there was a shortage because of Covid and people weren't giving but it's safe now," said Peniche.
Addison and her family are starting a foundation that donates colorful blankets to cancer patients in hospitals. A GoFundMe page has been launched to help Addison and her family with the mission.
Tune in to FOX 11 Los Angeles for the latest Southern California news.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/orlando-freefall-death-new-details-expected-friday-after-teens-deadly-fall-from-ride
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Orlando FreeFall death: New details expected Friday after teen's deadly fall from ride
ORLANDO, Fla. - More details are expected to be released on Friday about what happened when a 14-year-old fell to his death from the Orlando FreeFall ride at ICON Park.
Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried will hold a news conference at 11 a.m. to talk about the horrible accident that has captivated the nation as the state continues to investigate.
(FOX 35 Orlando)
A memorial for Tyre Sampson continues to grow just over one week since it happened.
According to the ride manufacturer’s manual, the maximum weight limit for riders on the Orlando FreeFall is 287 pounds. Sampson’s father told FOX 35 News that the teen weighed 340 pounds, which would be 53 pounds over the weight limit.
A police vehicle drives past ICON Park following the death of a teenager on March 24, 2022. Credit: FOX 35 Orlando
State Senator Linda Stewart says she is in disbelief about the tragic accident.
"It is just really drove a stake in my heart," Stewart said. "We have to do something."
She’s read through documents released this week by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Now she’s waiting for their official investigative reports to see what went wrong.
"That will give us direction on where we need to go," Senator Stewart said.
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"I don’t see how anyone visually can look at a person and determine how much they weigh. So I think that’s one thing we need to look into, if there’s some kind of pad or weight thing they can step on. It's a green light if they’re under. Red light if they’re not and they’re not able to get on the ride."
Earlier this week, Brian Avery, an independent ride consultant and lecturer at the University of Florida told FOX 35 News there’s a loophole in Florida code where venues do not have to post weight requirements on signs outside the ride unless the ride manufacturer say in their manual that it needs to be done. Stewart said requiring weight limits to be put on signage at all amusement rides could be something to look into as well.
"I think a sign is helpful. I think a lot of people will look at that and if you’re over the limit you won’t want to risk your life," Senator Stewart said.
RELATED: Teen falls from Florida ride: Video shows moments leading up to deadly plunge
Another item that’s caught her attention, a letter from Funtime, the ride’s manufacturer to the state of Florida that read, in part, "It is no need for an extra safety or seat belt because the seat and restraint system fulfill more than the requirements."
If the Florida Department of Agriculture doesn’t make a change here, Stewart said she will work to get one.
"No matter what the manufacturer’s say, they could say in Florida you’re going to have a seatbelt. Just because the manufacturer says you don’t need one doesn’t mean we can’t require one," Stewart said.
Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/strong-storms-with-heavy-rain-damaging-winds-likely-to-impact-weekend-in-central-florida
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Strong storms with heavy rain, damaging winds likely to impact weekend in Central Florida
ORLANDO, Fla. - A Tornado Warning was issued for Brevard County on Friday morning as strong storms moved through Central Florida.
The warning expired at 8:45 a.m.
A stationary front has moved into the area, bringing periodic downpours to the morning commute.
There is a "FLOOD ADVISORY" in effect for Lake, Orange, Seminole and Volusia counties until 7:15 a.m. Expect minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas. The risk of strong to severe storms increases on Saturday. That is why we have declared Saturday a FOX 35 Storm Alert Day.
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The same front remains in place and with daytime heating and the arrival of an upper-level system, strong storms will fire up after 12 p.m. sticking around through the evening hours.
The main threats will be heavy rain and damaging wind gusts.
Sunday brings another chance for rain before clearing out on Monday.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/florida-hires-forensic-firm-to-investigate-tyre-sampson-death-from-orlando-freefall-ride
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Florida hires forensic firm to investigate Tyre Sampson death from Orlando FreeFall ride
ORLANDO, Fla. - Commissioner Nikki Fried promised a "complete and thorough investigation" into how a 14-year-old teenager fell from the Orlando FreeFall drop tower last week at ICON Park, but also emphasized that her agency would not jump to any conclusions until that investigation was completed and the report is released.
She also said the agency hired Quest Engineering, a forensic engineering and analysis firm, to help with their investigation into how Tyre Sampson fell to his death while he was on the ride last Thursday, March 24, 2022.
CONTINUING COVERAGE: ICON Park Death Investigation
"We are fully committed to finding out what happened so we can better prevent such tragedies from happening in the future – and that’s why we will not be jumping to any conclusions before the information is provided to us and we know all the facts," she said at a Friday afternoon press conference, which came eight days after Sampson’s death.
Sampson was visiting Orlando with another family from St. Louis, Missouri, according to his family. Thursday night, he and friends went on Orlando FreeFall, a vertical ride that takes people some 400 feet into the air and then free-falls several hundred feet to the ground.
As the ride was in free-fall and after the magnets engaged, Sampson fell off the ride and onto the ground. He later died at the hospital.
"When you send your children away for Spring Break or from your hometown, you certainly want them to enjoy the area where they’re traveling and you expect them to return safely," said Florida Representative Geraldine Thompson, whose district includes Orlando.
RELATED: Teen falls from Florida ride: Video shows moments leading up to deadly plunge
She said she’s been in talks with the family’s lawyer and said they are "not interested in so much fixing blame as to fixing the problem."
"I’ll be working with them to fix the problem," which could include legislative action to give the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services more power, she said. The agency is in charge of inspecting – and approving -- attractions and rides around the state.
RELATED: Orlando FreeFall ride death: Family friend who took Tyre Sampson to ICON Park speaks
FreeFall and Orlando Slingshot, both owned by The Slingshot Group, opened at ICON Park in December 2021. Based on the operations manual that was provided to the state and its inspection, both rides passed their initial inspections with no deficiencies, Commissioner Fried said.
Both rides have been shut down since March 24. The Slingshot Group’s other rides around the state remain open.
ICON Park released a statement on Friday following Fried's announcement. It reads in part:
"We commend the diligence and thoroughness that Commissioner Fried and the team at the Florida Department of Agriculture have shown as they investigate the operation of the Slingshot Group’s Orlando FreeFall ride."
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https://www.wogx.com/news/missing-florida-mom-cassie-carli-felt-extremely-unsafe-around-childs-father-before-disappearance-sister
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Missing Florida mom Cassie Carli felt 'extremely' unsafe around child's father before disappearance: sister
NAVARRE BEACH, Fla. - The young Florida mom who went missing earlier this week while picking up her daughter from the child’s father has previously felt "extremely" unsafe around the man, who allegedly told her family after the disappearance that she was acting unusual, her sister told Fox News Digital.
Raeann Carli said her older sister, Cassie, always kept close contact with their father, whom she lived with, and the rest of the family, and was "never one to just disappear." But on Sunday evening, she told her dad she was running out to pick up her four-year-old daughter, Saylor, from the child’s father’s custody and never returned, Carli said during a phone call with Fox News Digital on Thursday.
"When it came time to pick Saylor up, my dad was in his room about to rest and she just kind of popped in, 'Hey, dad, I'll be right back. I'm just running to grab Saylor,’" Raeann, 32, said. "She walked out the door like she would be right back."
Raeann said Cassie usually tried to meet her daughter's father, Marcus Spanevelo, at a public location – typically a Walmart parking lot – but that he had recently been changing the meet-up locations. This time, the pair scheduled to meet in the parking lot of nearby Juana’s Pagodas restaurant.
Cassie’s father then went to sleep, but awoke hours later to discover his daughter had not yet returned.
Image provided by Cassie Carli's family shows text message conversation between someone purporting to be Cassie and her father. (Photos courtesy Raeann Carli)
"Cassie, I’m trying to call you. What’s going on?" he wrote, in a series of text messages provided to Fox News Digital. His first message was sent at 9:40 p.m. Sunday. He then sent a second message that stated: "I’m freaking out case call me as soon as you get this message."
A response came shortly thereafter, and stated: "I’m sorry, car was acting up, and I broke my phone. Marcus is working on it. I will stay at his place tonight. He is paying me some money to do some stuff around his house."
A later message from Cassie’s phone stated, "Let me see if he can get this fixed and I’ll call you."
Image provided by Cassie Carli's family shows text message conversation between someone purporting to be Cassie and her father. (Photos courtesy Raeann Carli)
Cassie’s father then went to sleep for the night. After hearing nothing from his daughter the next morning, he contacted Spanevelo, Raeann Carli explained.
"No answer on the phone," Raeann said, of when her father tried to call Spanevelo. "But then he texted him a long paragraph and said, ‘Yeah, Cassie was having troubles. I was going to help her with her phone, but she ended up getting all upset and acting crazy,'" Raeann went on. Spanevelo did not respond to Fox News Digital’s request seeking comment and information.
Cassie Carli, 37, had just started a new job as lead server at a local restaurant, and was excited about returning early this week, Raeann said.
(Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office)
On Thursday, Santa Rosa County Sheriff Bob Johnson called Carli's disappearance "very concerning" as he revealed that investigators who discovered her car behind Juana’s Pagodas restaurant also found her purse inside.
"There were things in the purse … we don’t think she would just up and leave," Johnson said during a Thursday press conference. He later added: "Usually you don’t go four days without hearing from them, or them using a credit card, cell phone…so yeah, we’re concerned."
FLORIDA MOM CASSIE CARLI MISSING SINCE SUNDAY; SEARCH INTENSIFIES AS DAUGHTER, 4, FOUND SAFE
Johnson said investigators located Spanevolo – allegedly the last person the woman was with – in Birmingham, Alabama, where detectives questioned him and located Saylor safe.
When asked why Spanevelo would be there, Johnson said he had work in the area. Johnson added that the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office’s entire Major Crimes Unit, which consists of 10 detectives, is working the case.
"We are intent on speaking with him again," Johnson said. He would not discuss Spanevelo’s recollection of events.
Cassie Carli seen in this undated photo provided by the family (Photos courtesy Carli family)
The county's top cop said the search for Carli has expanded beyond the state of Florida and the FBI was now involved. The sheriff added that about five or six witnesses had come forward so far, and said investigators are still examining surveillance footage from the area.
A spokesperson for the Santa Rosa Sheriff’s Office previously said Cassie was last seen in the area of a restaurant called Juana’s Pagodas in Navarre Beach. Her car was located around 11 a.m. Sunday at a boat ramp in the Juana’s parking lot, Raeann Carli said. The family said Saylor remains with her father despite their urgent efforts to gain custody.
Carli is described as being 5-foot-5 inches tall and 150 pounds with blue eyes and blonde, shoulder-length hair. She has pierced ears and a mole on her right cheek.
Cassie Carli seen in this undated photo provided by the family (Photos courtesy Carli family)
But Raeann Carli said her sister had previously made a point of meeting Saylor’s father in a public place, and said Cassie had felt "extremely" unsafe around him in the past. At times, their father would accompany her to the custody switch meetings.
"She was very nervous," the concerned sister said.
In at least one instance, Carli said, the man never showed up with the young child and did not return her until two weeks later, after the police had allegedly gotten involved, Raeann recalled. The Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s office did not immediately provide Fox News Digital with related records to confirm the detail. Spokespersons for the office instructed Fox News Digital to submit a records request for any information regarding the case or Carli’s history with Spanevelo.
Image provided by Raeann Carli shows text Facebook Messenger exchange between Raeann Carli and her niece's father, Marcus Spanevelo. (Photos courtesy Raeann Carli)
Spanevelo told Raeann Carli he answered investigators’ questions and would continue to do so, according to a Facebook messenger conversation that was provided to Fox News Digital.
Loved ones and members of the community, including Whitney Sich of nonprofit A Voice for the Voiceless, began their third day of searching on Thursday morning and said they will continue to do so. Sich has since created a Facebook group for those who are interested in getting involved.
As the family continues to hunt for answers, Raeann Carli called it "amazing" to see the support the community has provided.
Cassie Carli seen in this undated photo provided by the family (Photos courtesy Carli family)
"I’m overwhelmed by the help and the response we're getting," she said, as she spoke of her sister’s closeness to the community. "I'm not surprised, though."
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
The sheriff’s office has said the investigation remains "very active." They ask anyone with information to call their Major Crimes Unit at 859-983-1190.
Fox News' Sarah Rumpf contributed to this report.
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30-year mortgage rates hold steady today | April 1, 2022
Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as "Credible" below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders, all opinions are our own.
Check out the mortgage rates for April 1, 2022, which are mixed from yesterday. (Credible)
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage refinance rates have risen for two key terms and remained unchanged for two others since yesterday.
- 30-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.875%, up from 4.625%, +0.250
- 20-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.625%, up from 4.500%, +0.125
- 15-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.875%, unchanged
- 10-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.750%, unchanged
Rates last updated on April 1, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary. With 5,000 reviews, Credible maintains an "excellent" Trustpilot score.
What this means: Refinance rates have spiked over the past few weeks, particularly for longer terms, which tend to be the most popular. Homeowners who can manage a higher payment who refinance into a 10- or 15-year term stand to save the most on interest over the life of their mortgage.
Today’s mortgage rates for home purchases
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage rates for home purchases have risen for one key term and remained unchanged for three others since yesterday.
- 30-year fixed mortgage rates: 4.750%, unchanged
- 20-year fixed mortgage rates: 4.625%, up from 4.500%, +0.125
- 15-year fixed mortgage rates: 3.875%, unchanged
- 10-year fixed mortgage rates: 3.750%, unchanged
Rates last updated on April 1, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary. Credible, a personal finance marketplace, has 5,000 Trustpilot reviews with an average star rating of 4.7 (out of a possible 5.0).
What this means: Buyers commonly prefer a 30-year repayment term to ensure they’ll get a monthly mortgage payment they can manage. Rates have been volatile over the past few weeks, so buyers might want to take advantage of today’s relative stability and lock in an interest rate ahead of further increases.
To find great mortgage rates, start by using Credible’s secured website, which can show you current mortgage rates from multiple lenders without affecting your credit score. You can also use Credible’s mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly mortgage payments.
How mortgage rates have changed over time
Today’s mortgage interest rates are well below the highest annual average rate recorded by Freddie Mac — 16.63% in 1981. A year before the COVID-19 pandemic upended economies across the world, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for 2019 was 3.94%. The average rate for 2021 was 2.96%, the lowest annual average in 30 years.
The historic drop in interest rates means homeowners who have mortgages from 2019 and older could potentially realize significant interest savings by refinancing with one of today’s lower interest rates. When considering a mortgage or refinance, it’s important to take into account closing costs such as appraisal, application, origination and attorney’s fees. These factors, in addition to the interest rate and loan amount, all contribute to the cost of a mortgage.
Are you looking to buy a home? Credible can help you compare current rates from multiple mortgage lenders at once in just a few minutes. Use Credible’s online tools to compare rates and get prequalified today.
Thousands of Trustpilot reviewers rate Credible "excellent."
How Credible mortgage rates are calculated
Changing economic conditions, central bank policy decisions, investor sentiment, and other factors influence the movement of mortgage rates. Credible average mortgage rates and mortgage refinance rates reported in this article are calculated based on information provided by partner lenders who pay compensation to Credible.
The rates assume a borrower has a 740 credit score and is borrowing a conventional loan for a single-family home that will be their primary residence. The rates also assume no (or very low) discount points and a down payment of 20%.
Credible mortgage rates reported here will only give you an idea of current average rates. The rate you actually receive can vary based on a number of factors.
How to get low mortgage rates
If you want to get the lowest possible monthly mortgage payment, taking the following steps can help you secure a lower rate on your home loan:
- Improving your credit score
- Paying down debt
- Making a bigger down payment
It’s also a good idea to compare rates from different lenders to find the best rate for your financial goals. According to research from Freddie Mac, borrowers can save $1,500 on average over the life of their loan by shopping for just one additional rate quote — and an average of $3,000 by comparing five rate quotes.
If you’re trying to find the right mortgage rate, consider using Credible. You can use Credible's free online tool to easily compare multiple lenders and see prequalified rates in just a few minutes.
Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
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As a Credible authority on mortgages and personal finance, Chris Jennings has covered topics that include mortgage loans, mortgage refinancing, and more. He’s been an editor and editorial assistant in the online personal finance space for four years. His work has been featured by MSN, AOL, Yahoo Finance, and more.
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Today’s mortgage refinance rates: 10- and 15-year rates stick | April 1, 2022
Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as "Credible" below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders, all opinions are our own.
Check out the mortgage refinancing rates for April 1, 2022, which are mixed from yesterday. (Credible)
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage refinance rates have risen for two longer terms and remained unchanged for two shorter terms since yesterday.
- 30-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.875%, up from 4.625%, +0.250
- 20-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.625%, up from 4.500%, +0.125
- 15-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.875%, unchanged
- 10-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.750%, unchanged
Rates last updated on April 1, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary.
If you’re thinking of doing a cash-out refinance or refinancing your home mortgage to lower your interest rate, consider using Credible. Credible's free online tool will let you compare rates from multiple mortgage lenders. You can see prequalified rates in as little as three minutes.
What this means: Mortgage refinance rates have spiked over the past couple of weeks, particularly for longer terms, which tend to be the most popular. Homeowners who can manage a higher payment can refinance into a 10- or 15-year term to save the most on interest over the life of their mortgage. And homeowners looking to borrow to pay for a big expense like home improvement will find cash-out refinance rates are still lower than options like personal loans or credit cards.
WHAT IS CASH-OUT REFINANCING AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
How mortgage rates have changed over time
Today’s mortgage interest rates are well below the highest annual average rate recorded by Freddie Mac — 16.63% in 1981. A year before the COVID-19 pandemic upended economies across the world, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for 2019 was 3.94%. The average rate for 2021 was 2.96%, the lowest annual average in 30 years.
The historic drop in interest rates means homeowners who have mortgages from 2019 and older could potentially realize significant interest savings by refinancing with one of today’s lower interest rates.
If you’re ready to take advantage of current mortgage refinance rates that are below average historical lows, you can use Credible to check rates from multiple lenders.
How to get your lowest mortgage refinance rate
If you’re interested in refinancing your mortgage, improving your credit score and paying down any other debt could secure you a lower rate. It’s also a good idea to compare rates from different lenders if you're hoping to refinance so you can find the best rate for your situation.
Borrowers can save $1,500 on average over the life of their loan by shopping for just one additional rate quote, and an average of $3,000 by comparing five rate quotes, according to research from Freddie Mac.
Be sure to shop around and compare current mortgage rates from multiple mortgage lenders if you decide to refinance your mortgage. You can do this easily with Credible’s free online tool and see your prequalified rates in only three minutes.
How does Credible calculate refinance rates?
Changing economic conditions, central bank policy decisions, investor sentiment and other factors influence the movement of mortgage refinance rates. Credible average mortgage refinance rates reported in this article are calculated based on information provided by partner lenders who pay compensation to Credible.
The rates assume a borrower has a 740 credit score and is borrowing a conventional loan for a single-family home that will be their primary residence. The rates also assume no (or very low) discount points and a down payment of 20%.
Credible mortgage refinance rates reported here will only give you an idea of current average rates. The rate you receive can vary based on a number of factors.
Think it might be the right time to refinance? Be sure to shop around and compare rates with multiple mortgage lenders. You can do this easily with Credible and see your prequalified rates in only three minutes.
Are refinance rates higher than purchase rates?
Refinance rates are generally higher than rates for new mortgages to buy a house. Here are some factors that influence the higher rates:
- Risk — A borrower who refinances into a shorter term to get a lower interest rate and pay off their loan sooner may end up with a higher monthly payment. That higher payment could translate into an elevated risk of default. Likewise, in cash-out refinances, the borrower’s debt-to-income ratio rises — and possibly their risk of defaulting.
- Revenue — A lender may be able to make more money off a purchase loan than a refinance. Many homebuyers choose longer terms for purchase mortgages, which come with higher interest rates. Refinancing into a shorter term and/or lower interest rate reduces the amount of interest the lender makes over the life of a loan.
- Costs — Refinancing a mortgage comes with many of the same closing costs you’ll face when you take out a new mortgage, such as an appraisal, attorney fees and more. Closing on a refinance also has costs for the lender. But whereas the lower interest rate and shorter term you get with a refinance benefits you financially, the lender will make less in interest over the life of the refinanced loan.
- Your credit — Hopefully, your credit continues to improve once you become a homeowner. But that’s not always the case for everyone. A homeowner whose credit score has actually fallen since they initially bought the house may look like a bigger risk to lenders — who may charge a higher interest rate to offset the perceived risk.
Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
Advertisement
As a Credible authority on mortgages and personal finance, Chris Jennings has covered topics that include mortgage loans, mortgage refinancing, and more. He’s been an editor and editorial assistant in the online personal finance space for four years. His work has been featured by MSN, AOL, Yahoo Finance, and more.
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Egret hitches a ride on swimming alligator's back at Florida park
ORLANDO, Fla. - Why fly when you can just hitch a ride?
That's exactly what one fearless great egret did at Gatorland in Orlando last month.
Video recorded by Tiffanie Eden shows the intrepid bird perched on an alligator's back as it swam along in an exhibit at the central Florida attraction and wildlife preserve on March 8.
The 110-acre park is home to thousands of alligators, crocodiles, and native birds, including the great egret.
RELATED: Alligator seen swimming with football in mouth in Florida
Great egrets are known for hitchhiking on gators, with multiple instances seen online of the pairing.
Researchers at the University of Florida say that, though birds and alligators may not seem to be the likeliest of friends, they appear to mutually benefit from one another in order to survive in the Sunshine State's wetlands.
Wading birds, including the great egret, appear to actively choose to nest on tree limbs near alligators, who act as bodyguards by chasing -- and sometimes eating -- nest raiders such as possums and raccoons.
WATCH: Baby sandhill crane hatches in Florida
The study's author, Lucas Nell, tells the Washington Post that the birds developed the strategy over time, despite the prospect of losing one or two of their own chicks per year as a result.
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"We have known for some time that ibises, storks, spoonbills and herons seem to always have alligators underneath their nests," said Peter Frederick, a professor in UF's department of wildlife ecology and conservation. "Alligators are serving as nest protectors – keeping raccoons out of the colony, which are otherwise devastating nest predators."
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For sale: Off-the-grid island home tucked inside a Florida state park
It’s like "Cast Away" except you’re probably a multi-millionaire and you want to be alone on a giant island.
A home located within Florida’s Cayo Costa State Park is for sale for $3.5 million and comes with all the amenities you can imagine — except for neighbors.
On 1000 Cayo Costa, you’ll find a stately island mansion on a sprawling 1.8-acre property along the Gulf of Mexico. The home gives "resort vibes" and even comes with its own private dock for you to have easy access to your boat, which you’ll obviously need to access the island.
Aerial view of 1000 Cayo Costa. (McMurray and Members of Royal Shell Real Estate)
Whoever decides to plunk down the change for this unique home will get direct access to a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters, and there’s even an outdoor shower you can use to get any excess sand off after frolicking on your beach.
Pier to boat dock. (McMurray and Members of Royal Shell Real Estate)
The home is fitted with solar panels, lithium batteries and generators designed to keep everything running as though you were in a regular neighborhood on the mainland.
Solar panels that power 1000 Cayo Costa. (McMurray and Members of Royal Shell Real Estate)
There are three bedrooms and three bathrooms and the kitchen has custom mahogany cabinets and high-end appliances, according to the property description.
Kitchen. (McMurray and Members of Royal Shell Real Estate)
The closest major city on the mainland is Fort Myers and Cape Coral, Florida, to the east of the island.
While it may seem like you’re worlds away from any civilization, you’re just a few miles by boat away from "the famous Cabbage Key restaurant, Pink Elephant on Bocca Grande, Mucky Duck on Captiva, or private dining on Useppa Island," according to Royal Shell Real Estate.
So if you’ve been looking for an isolated mansion on an island that is also a state park, look no further.
Cayo Costa State Park
The park is protected land, as most state parks are, and sits on 2,420 acres on one of Florida’s largest unspoiled barrier islands, according to the state park website.
There are hiking trails and even cabin and tent rentals available upon reservation.
The park is open from 8 a.m. until sunset and pets are permitted as long as they are on a leash.
No hunting or fireworks are permitted.
Also, during the summer months, hundreds of sea turtles come to the park to lay their eggs, according to the state park website. Rangers are usually at the park to ensure the turtles are undisturbed during this time.
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Kelly Hayes contributed to this report. This story was reported out of Los Angeles.
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Gov. DeSantis signs bill giving $5,000 bonuses to new law enforcement recruits
TITUSVILLE, Fla. - Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a wide-ranging package Friday that includes providing bonuses to help recruit law-enforcement officers from other states and giving county sheriffs more autonomy over their budgets.
The highest profile part of the measure (HB 3) is $5,000 recruitment bonuses for law-enforcement officers. With the law taking effect July 1, the state Department of Economic Opportunity is required to develop minimum eligibility requirements for the program.
"We want to incentivize really strong, high-quality people to pursue law enforcement as a vocation in the state of Florida," DeSantis said during a bill-signing ceremony at the Brevard County Sheriff's Office in Titusville. "That may mean that you leave Seattle or Chicago or some of these places and come to the Brevard County Sheriff's Office. But it could also mean that you're somebody that's in Florida trying to determine what you want to do with your life."
Other aspects of the measure include establishing a Florida Law Enforcement Academy Scholarship Program to cover basic-training tuition and fees for new officers and creating an exemption from certain law-enforcement training requirements for military veterans.
Sheriffs, under the bill, will see their base salaries increase by $5,000 a year. Sheriffs will also get more leeway with their budgets after the spending plans have been approved by county commissions. Currently, sheriffs can appeal county budgetary decisions to the state Administration Commission, which is made up of the governor and members of the Florida Cabinet.
But lawmakers included the change into the bill in response to a legal battle started when former Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell shifted money within her budget. Alachua County fought the move, and the Florida Supreme Court in January ruled that the money couldn’t be shifted without approval from the county commission.
Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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Dress rehearsal: NASA moon rocket's last test before launch
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA kicked off a critical countdown test Friday for its new moon rocket, a 30-story behemoth that could make its first lunar test flight by summer.
The two-day demonstration — the final major milestone before liftoff to the moon — will culminate Sunday as teams load nearly 1 million gallons of super-cold fuel into the rocket on the pad. The countdown will halt at the 9-second mark before engines ignite.
NASA plans to set a launch date after analyzing the results of the dress rehearsal for the Space Launch System rocket — SLS for short.
Officials have indicated the rocket could blast off as early as June, sending the attached Orion crew capsule hurtling toward the moon. The capsule will spend at least a month in space before returning to Earth.
No one will be on board for the first moonshot since NASA’s Apollo lunar landings a half-century ago. Astronauts will strap in for the second test flight slated for 2024, looping around the moon and back. That would pave the way for astronauts landing on the moon around 2025, according to NASA.
The U.S. Government Accountability Office recently warned, however, that technical challenges remain — primarily with the lunar lander and spacesuits — that could further delay the moon landing, already years behind schedule. The GAO also cited billions in escalating costs.
NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop a mobile launcher at Launch Complex 39B, Friday, March 18, 2022. (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Towering 322 feet (98 meters), the rocket made its debut at the Kennedy Space Center launch pad two weeks ago. Since then, all of its systems have been powered up in preparation for this weekend’s test. Officials stressed that possible thunderstorms or technical problems could drag out the rehearsal.
NASA promised to provide updates throughout the weekend, but the public won't be able to listen in. The space agency cited security concerns.
"We are being cautious — an abundance of caution — and that’s particularly in the environment that we’re in nowadays," said Tom Whitmeyer, head of NASA’s exploration systems development.
RELATED: Spirits of past space shuttles to help boost new moon rocket
NASA expects to announce the crews for the initial lunar missions this summer. The pool of candidates includes nine men and nine women; two are at the International Space Station and two are due to arrive there in a few weeks.
Twenty-four astronauts flew to the moon during Apollo from 1968 through 1972; 12 landed on the lunar surface.
Unlike Apollo, NASA is partnering with private business for its moon program, named Artemis after Apollo’s twin sister in Greek mythology. While NASA's rocket and capsule will get astronauts into lunar orbit, SpaceX’s still-in-development Starship will carry them down to the lunar surface, at least for the first mission. NASA is seeking additional companies for later landings.
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The space agency’s goal is to develop a sustainable moon presence, then aim for Mars. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson recently cited 2040 as the target for a Martian expedition with astronauts.
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Gov. DeSantis: Disney bringing 'California values' to Florida in objecting to parental rights bill
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - When you look at the Disney signs outside of Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, you may think of Mickey Mouse and fun times with family for friends at one of the resort's four theme parks, but experts say it's more like a very large company that has its own town.
"Back in 1967, when Disney was first buying land and getting ready to set up shop here in town, the legislature and governor gave Disney the power of self-government," explained University of Central Florida political science professor Aubrey Jewett.
That paved the way for the Reedy Creek Improvement Act which created the special district.
Reedy Creek, which consists of around 25,000 acres of land carved out from Orange and Osceola counties, has its own city council. Jewett says the district has two municipalities, Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista.
"It’s about Disney having a lot of control -- not having to ask Orange County or Orlando permission to do a lot of things. Instead, they basically can decide what they want to do," Jewett added.
Now, Gov. Ron DeSantis could have that district dissolved.
After the Walt Disney Company criticized the passage of the Parental Rights in Education law, DeSantis said its executives were trying to inject their "California values" into the more moderate Sunshine State.
The law, which critics have called "Don't Say Gay," prohibits Florida educators from teaching about sexual orientation or gender identity in kindergarten through third grade, with a provision that enables parents to sue if they allege schools or instructors have been in violation.
"Florida’s HB 1557, also known as the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill, should never have passed and should never have been signed into law," reads the statement from Disney. Our goal as a company is for this law to be repealed by the legislature or struck down in the courts," read a portion of a statement from Disney released on Monday.
Following that, some lawmakers suggested repealing the Reedy Creek Improvement Act.
State House Rep. Spencer Roach, a Fort Meyers-area Republican, tweeted a post about it, with the governor giving it the "thumbs up."
"The legislature can re-evaluate it as a whole, but my view is we should treat everyone equally. We shouldn’t let one company have their own set of rules, compared to everybody else," DeSantis said.
"My initial reaction was, ‘What the heck?’ I was really shocked and surprised," said Jewitt.
The governor has stated that he thinks Reedy Creek has too much power.
"I can tell you I was shocked to see some of the stuff that’s in there. They could do their own nuclear power plant!" DeSantis said.
We asked Jewett what he thinks.
"It has crossed my mind that maybe the Legislature and the governor back in the 1960s went overboard a little bit," Jewett responded.
However, State Sen. Linda Stewart, an Orlando-area Democrat, doubts Reedy Creek will be dissolved.
"Disney’s not going to stand by and let that happen without a fight, so you’re looking at maybe a few years worth of lawsuits," she said.
Jewett said there is a small chance the Reedy Creek Improvement District could be repealed. He said around 50 retired and current Disney employees live there.
No one from Reedy Creek would comment about the possible repeal.
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Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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EDC Orlando 2022 announces dates, ticket sales
ORLANDO, Fla. - The Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) will be returning to Orlando later this year and on Friday, organizers announced ticket sales and dates for the dance music festival.
EDC Orlando 2022 will kick off on Friday, November 11, and run through Sunday, November 13.
"Orlando’s Tinker Field will vibrantly transform to push the boundaries of live entertainment for three days while celebrating the unparalleled moments that music, love, and artistic expression bring to the EDC dance floor," organizers said.
Since 2011, EDC Orlando has grown exponentially in size and attendance. The latest 2021 festival welcomed a crowd of 300,000 who gathered on the neon-lit festival grounds that featured six music stages and performances from more than 100 of the biggest artists in dance music.
General Admission, GA+, and VIP tickets are now on sale for the three-day festival, with layaway plans starting at just a small $10 deposit for all ticket types. Limited Early Owl pricing is available beginning at $189.99 for General Admission, $269.99 for GA+, and $389.99 for VIP.
EDC Orlando is an 18+ festival, with VIP tickets reserved for Headliners 21 years of age or older.
Tickets are now available for purchase online at EDCOrlando.com.
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Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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Orlando FreeFall ride death: Teen's fall could lead to legislation
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - A Central Florida lawmaker said she expects to see legislation to address issues involved in 14-year-old Tyre Sampson’s death last week from the Orlando FreeFall ride.
Rep. Geraldine Thompson, D-Windermere, said details of the legislation will depend on the findings of an investigation by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
"We don't have all of the facts," Thompson said. "So we can't, in terms of a knee-jerk reaction, say this is what needs to happen. But once we have the investigation, I'll be working on the Tyre Sampson bill to address whatever the problems are."
Thompson, whose district includes many of the region’s tourist attractions, said issues could range from operator training to requiring the addition of seatbelts to similar rides as a safety redundancy for over-the-shoulder harnesses, which were part of the 430-foot tower drop at Orlando’s ICON Park.
RELATED: Florida hires forensic firm to investigate Tyre Sampson death from Orlando FreeFall ride
The FreeFall ride and a nearby Slingshot ride are currently shut down.
The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which oversees amusement rides at such businesses, is working with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in investigating Sampson’s death.
Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried said she will make recommendations to the Legislature if any findings from the investigation are beyond her agency’s oversight. No date has been set to complete the investigation.
CONTINUING COVERAGE: ICON Park Death Investigation
"We're not going to jump to any conclusions about whether or not age issues or the intensity of the inspections, until such time that we get a thorough and complete investigation done," Fried said.
Sampson was in Florida from St. Louis as part of a football program trip when he slipped out of the ride’s seat on March 24.
According to state records, the FreeFall and Slingshot rides underwent initial inspections on Dec. 20, with no deficiencies reported. Fried said oversight rules were followed when the tower ride opened in December.
Sen. Randolph Bracy, D-Ocoee, wrote a letter this week asking Fried to make the temporary closure of the ride permanent.
Orlando Weather: Storm alerts, live interactive radar, forecast, and more
Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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Former UCF players look to impress NFL scouts at pro day
ORLANDO, Fla. - The University of Central Florida had nearly a dozen former players participate in Pro Day on Friday.
"They want to know what am I good at, what do I think I'm good at and what stuff do I need to work on," offensive lineman Cole Schneider told reporters. "Stuff I'm good at is, I have quick feet, I can work the outside. I can get my hips around. I left it all out there and did everything I could."
Players were tested on things like their broad jump and 40-yard dash, and went through several workouts, including the three-cone drill and shuttles.
There were plenty of scouts on hand, and even UCF head coach Gus Malzahn was in the building.
"I thought a lot of my routes were pretty smooth. My running, I improved that a lot too…It’s kind of surreal right now being in front of ya’ll," wide receiver Brandon Johnson said.
Former UCF quarterback McKenzie Milton attend both Florida State and UCF's Pro Day.
He's trying onto get as many eyeballs on him as he can, and he wants to prove he's still got ‘it’.
"I wouldn’t be out here if I wasn’t confident in myself to go get it done. I still feel like I can ball. I still feel like I can be one of the best quarterbacks in the world," Milton said.
Whether these players are drafted or become un-drafted free agents, they're all vying for a coveted spot on an NFL team.
The NFL Draft kicks off with the first round on April 28.
Orlando Weather: Storm alerts, live interactive radar, forecast, and more
Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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NASA resumes Artemis I wet dress rehearsal countdown
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA resumed the countdown for the wet dress rehearsal for the Artemis I moon rockets on Monday morning.
At approximately 10 a.m. EDT, the launch director gave the "go" to begin tanking the rocket.
The so-called wet dress rehearsal was called off on Sunday while the fuel was being loaded. NASA says technical issues could have put technicians at risk of exposure to hazardous gases.
RELATED: NASA's Artemis moon rocket on launchpad at Kennedy Space Center
If all goes well with the test, an uncrewed mission could launch in June or July with future flights sending astronauts back to the moon later this decade.
This all comes after this scary scene Saturday at the launchpad. Lightning struck a tower right next to the Artemis I rocket.
NASA ran a series of tests on Monday to make sure no systems were impacted.
You can get a live look at the rocket on Launch Pad 39A in the player above.
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Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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Orlando FreeFall death: State hires forensic team to investigate after teen falls from ride
ORLANDO, Fla. - Crews from the Florida Department of Agriculture will be on site at ICON Park on Monday. The state has hired a forensic team to investigate the Orlando FreeFall ride after 14-year-old Tyre Sampson died when he fell from the attraction on March 24.
The owners say they are fully cooperating with the investigation.
In addition to the state forensic team, the family of Tyre has their own attorneys going forward with an investigation. Their attorney, Michael Haggard, claims there are design issues with the ride as well as a lack of seatbelts, warning signs regarding the weight limit and scales.
RELATED: Orlando FreeFall ride death: Video shows Tyre Sampson in seat moments before falling
"We’ve talked to several witnesses who have been on that ride, complained about the harnesses that night to several weeks prior," their lawyer said.
On Friday, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried promised a "complete and thorough investigation" into the tragedy, but also emphasized that her agency would not jump to any conclusions until that investigation was completed and the report is released.
RELATED: Orlando FreeFall ride death: $20 belt may have saved teen's life, expert says
"We are fully committed to finding out what happened, so we can better prevent such tragedies from happening in the future – and that’s why we will not be jumping to any conclusions before the information is provided to us, and we know all the facts," she said at a Friday afternoon press conference.
The family's attorney says they will do everything they can to get justice for Tyre and his family and ensure this never happens again.
Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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Warm and sunny before storms make a comeback in Central Florida mid-week
ORLANDO, Fla. - After a rather wet weekend, complete with a few rounds of severe thunderstorms, Central Florida weather looks pretty nice on this Monday.
Expect plenty of sunshine and pleasant warmth. Highs head for the 80s, skies are generally dry. There could be a few deep interior showers after 4 p.m. Chances hover in the 20% or less range.
Additional weather energy moves in tomorrow with rain chances coming up a bit. The highest storm risk will be closer to the coastal counties and primarily after 4 p.m. A few strong storms will be possible during this time.
While the severe risk will be the highest well north of Central Florida on Tuesday, a good chunk of the viewing area is outlined with a "LEVEL-1 POSSIBLE" for stronger storms.
DOWNLOAD: FOX 35 NEWS APP | FOX 35 STORM TEAM WEATHER APP
The FOX 35 STORM TEAM has issued WEATHER IMPACT DAYS to address the possibility of a greater severe weather risk on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Damaging wind gusts, heavy rain, and lots of lightning could accompany some of the stronger storms.
Orlando Weather: Storm alerts, live interactive radar, forecast, and more
Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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Expert proposes new way for Biden to cancel student loans without Congress or executive action
As a presidential candidate, Joe Biden campaigned on canceling $10,000 worth of student loan debt per borrower. But more than a year into his term, President Biden hasn't yet found a way to deliver on his campaign promise.
Prominent Democrats have been calling on Biden to cancel student debt via executive order "with the flick of a pen," although not all legal experts agree that the president has the legal authority to enact debt forgiveness. Biden himself has previously indicated that he wants Congress to enact this type of legislation. However, existing bills aimed at student debt cancellation haven't gained enough support among moderates in the House and Senate.
Now, one analyst has proposed an alternative way for the Biden administration to enact broad student debt forgiveness.
Student loan expert Mark Kantrowitz said in a recent blog post that Education Secretary Miguel Cardona has the regulatory authority to change the rules of an existing federal program, income-contingent repayment (ICR), to effectively cancel student debt for millions of borrowers.
"This regulatory authority is so broad that the U.S. Department of Education could use the rulemaking process to issue new regulations that transform ICR into a new student loan forgiveness program," Kantrowitz said.
Keep reading to learn more about this new proposal to discharge student loan debt through ICR. And if you have private student loans that don't qualify for forgiveness, it may be possible to reduce your monthly payments and pay off debt faster by refinancing to a lower interest rate. You can visit Credible to compare student loan refinance rates for free without impacting your credit score.
BIDEN ADMINISTRATION CONSIDERING ANOTHER STUDENT LOAN PAYMENT PAUSE EXTENSION
How Biden could use ICR to implement widespread student loan forgiveness
Income-contingent repayment (ICR) is one of four of income-driven repayment plans offered by the Department of Education. Under an ICR plan, eligible borrowers can limit their federal student loan payments to 20% of their discretionary income. After making payments for 25 years, a borrower's remaining loan balance is forgiven.
The Education Department has the legal authority to amend the ICR program rules to move borrowers closer to achieving forgiveness, Kantrowitz argues. In fact, the Biden administration already did this once when it temporarily amended the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program (PSLF), making it easier for public servants to qualify for debt cancellation.
Kantrowitz said the Education Department may be able to:
- Shorten the 25-year repayment period. The department could forgive a student loan borrower's remaining balance after making payments for 15 years or 10 years, for example. Per current regulations, though, the repayment term can't be less than five years.
- Count periods during which the borrower was not enrolled in an ICR plan. This would include qualifying payments made on a standard repayment plan and under the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program, as well as periods of economic hardship deferment.
- Provide a full student loan discharge to underprivileged borrowers who meet certain income thresholds based on the poverty line. This could also prevent wealthy borrowers from qualifying for full student loan forgiveness.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT STUDENT LOAN CONSOLIDATION
While other proposals to cancel student debt through an executive order would likely face lawsuits, Kantrowitz said that amending ICR is "more likely to survive legal challenges."
It's important to note that this student debt forgiveness proposal would only be available to federal student loan borrowers. Those who have private student loan debt may want to consider their alternative repayment options, such as refinancing. You can learn more about student loan refinancing by getting in touch with a knowledgeable loan officer at Credible.
FEDERAL STUDENT LOAN BORROWERS AT RISK OF DELINQUENCY WHEN FORBEARANCE ENDS
What to do if you don't qualify for student debt forgiveness
The Education Department has canceled about $16 billion worth of student loan debt since Biden took office for more than 680,000 Americans who qualified for programs like PSLF, borrower defense to repayment and closed school discharges.
However, the vast majority of borrowers have not yet received the broad student loan forgiveness Biden promised on the campaign trail. Plus, about 2.4 million borrowers with private student loans wouldn't benefit from widespread debt cancellation measures.
If you haven't benefited from federal student loan forgiveness, you may consider these alternative debt repayment strategies:
- Enroll in an income-driven repayment plan (IDR). Federal loan borrowers may be able to limit their monthly payments to between 10% and 20% of their disposable income. Federal Student Aid (FSA) recommends that you get in touch with your student loan servicer to sign up for an IDR plan.
- Seek employer-sponsored student debt relief. Nearly a third of large companies plan to offer some form of student loan assistance in the near future, recent research shows. And several prominent employers like Google, Honeywell and SoFi already offer student loan repayment assistance.
- Refinance your student loans at a lower rate. Student loan refinancing may be able to help some borrowers reduce their monthly payments, get out of debt faster and save money on interest charges over time. A recent Credible analysis found that borrowers who refinanced to a longer-term private student loan saved more than $250 per month, on average.
Keep in mind that refinancing your federal student loan debt into a private loan would make you ineligible for IDR plans and select federal student loan forgiveness programs. But if you don't plan on utilizing these benefits — or if you already have private student loans that aren't eligible for federal protections — then you may benefit from refinancing to a lower interest rate.
You can compare student loan refinance rates from private lenders in the table below. Then, you can use Credible's student loan calculator to determine if refinancing is the right strategy for your financial situation.
100,000 MEET ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENT LOAN RELIEF UNDER LIMITED PSLF WAIVER
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Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
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Today’s best mortgage deal? Look to 20-year rates | April 4, 2022
Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as "Credible" below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders, all opinions are our own.
Check out the mortgage rates for April 4, 2022, which are mixed from last Friday. (Credible)
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage refinance rates have risen for three terms and remained unchanged for one term since last Friday.
- 30-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.875%, unchanged
- 20-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.875%, up from 4.625%, +0.250
- 15-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.000%, up from 3.875%, +0.125
- 10-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.875%, up from 3.750%, +0.125
Rates last updated on April 4, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary. With 5,000 reviews, Credible maintains an "excellent" Trustpilot score.
What this means: Refinance rates have been increasing steadily across all terms since the beginning of 2022. But with 30-year refi rates skyrocketing to 5% last week, and currently holding just under 4.9%, shorter-term refinances are likely the better option for homeowners who want to secure interest savings.
Today’s mortgage rates for home purchases
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage rates for home purchases have risen for two terms and remained unchanged for two others since last Friday.
- 30-year fixed mortgage rates: 4.875%, up from 4.750%, +0.125
- 20-year fixed mortgage rates: 4.625%, unchanged
- 15-year fixed mortgage rates: 4.000%, up from 3.875%, +0.125
- 10-year fixed mortgage rates: 3.750%, unchanged
Rates last updated on April 4, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary. Credible, a personal finance marketplace, has 5,000 Trustpilot reviews with an average star rating of 4.7 (out of a possible 5.0).
What this means: Mortgage purchase rates continue to climb, with 30-year rates (the most popular term) rising to 4.875% today. Buyers may find the best combination of interest savings and affordability with 20-year rates, which held steady since Friday and are a full quarter-point lower than 30-year rates. Homebuyers who can manage a larger monthly mortgage payment will find greater interest savings with a shorter repayment term.
To find great mortgage rates, start by using Credible’s secured website, which can show you current mortgage rates from multiple lenders without affecting your credit score. You can also use Credible’s mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly mortgage payments.
How mortgage rates have changed over time
Today’s mortgage interest rates are well below the highest annual average rate recorded by Freddie Mac — 16.63% in 1981. A year before the COVID-19 pandemic upended economies across the world, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for 2019 was 3.94%. The average rate for 2021 was 2.96%, the lowest annual average in 30 years.
The historic drop in interest rates means homeowners who have mortgages from 2019 and older could potentially realize significant interest savings by refinancing with one of today’s lower interest rates. When considering a mortgage or refinance, it’s important to take into account closing costs such as appraisal, application, origination and attorney’s fees. These factors, in addition to the interest rate and loan amount, all contribute to the cost of a mortgage.
Are you looking to buy a home? Credible can help you compare current rates from multiple mortgage lenders at once in just a few minutes. Use Credible’s online tools to compare rates and get prequalified today.
Thousands of Trustpilot reviewers rate Credible "excellent."
How Credible mortgage rates are calculated
Changing economic conditions, central bank policy decisions, investor sentiment and other factors influence the movement of mortgage rates. Credible average mortgage rates and mortgage refinance rates reported in this article are calculated based on information provided by partner lenders who pay compensation to Credible.
The rates assume a borrower has a 740 credit score and is borrowing a conventional loan for a single-family home that will be their primary residence. The rates also assume no (or very low) discount points and a down payment of 20%.
Credible mortgage rates reported here will only give you an idea of current average rates. The rate you actually receive can vary based on a number of factors.
What is a good mortgage rate?
Generally, a good mortgage rate is one that’s the lowest you can qualify for based on your individual factors, such as credit history, income, other debts, down payment amount and more.
A rate that’s good for your financial situation should result in a monthly mortgage payment that you can manage while leaving plenty of room in your monthly budget to put toward savings, investments and an emergency fund. And a good rate should be competitive with average rates in the geographic area where you’re looking to buy.
If you’re trying to find the right mortgage rate, consider using Credible. You can use Credible's free online tool to easily compare multiple lenders and see prequalified rates in just a few minutes.
Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
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As a Credible authority on mortgages and personal finance, Chris Jennings has covered topics that include mortgage loans, mortgage refinancing, and more. He’s been an editor and editorial assistant in the online personal finance space for four years. His work has been featured by MSN, AOL, Yahoo Finance, and more.
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Today’s 30-year mortgage refinance rates hold, but for how much longer? | April 4, 2022
Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as "Credible" below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders, all opinions are our own.
Check out the mortgage refinancing rates for April 4, 2022, which are mostly up from last Friday. (Credible)
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage refinance rates have mostly risen since last Friday, with only 30-year rates remaining unchanged.
- 30-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.875%, unchanged
- 20-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.875%, up from 4.625%, +0.250
- 15-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.000%, up from 3.875%, +0.125
- 10-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.875%, up from 3.750%, +0.125
Rates last updated on April 4, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary.
If you’re thinking of doing a cash-out refinance or refinancing your home mortgage to lower your interest rate, consider using Credible. Credible's free online tool will let you compare rates from multiple mortgage lenders. You can see prequalified rates in as little as three minutes.
What this means: Refinance rates have been increasing steadily across all terms since the beginning of 2022. But with 30-year refi rates skyrocketing to 5% last week, and currently holding at 4.875%, homeowners who want the longest possible repayment term may be running out of time to save. Locking in a rate today could shield homeowners from further rate increases. Meanwhile, borrowers who've substantially paid down their mortgages might look to a 10-year refinance to reap maximum interest savings.
WHAT IS CASH-OUT REFINANCING AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
How mortgage rates have changed over time
Today’s mortgage interest rates are well below the highest annual average rate recorded by Freddie Mac — 16.63% in 1981. A year before the COVID-19 pandemic upended economies across the world, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for 2019 was 3.94%. The average rate for 2021 was 2.96%, the lowest annual average in 30 years.
The historic drop in interest rates means homeowners who have mortgages from 2019 and older could potentially realize significant interest savings by refinancing with one of today’s lower interest rates.
If you’re ready to take advantage of current mortgage refinance rates that are below average historical lows, you can use Credible to check rates from multiple lenders.
How to get your lowest mortgage refinance rate
If you’re interested in refinancing your mortgage, improving your credit score and paying down any other debt could secure you a lower rate. It’s also a good idea to compare rates from different lenders if you're hoping to refinance so you can find the best rate for your situation.
Borrowers can save $1,500 on average over the life of their loan by shopping for just one additional rate quote, and an average of $3,000 by comparing five rate quotes, according to research from Freddie Mac.
Be sure to shop around and compare current mortgage rates from multiple mortgage lenders if you decide to refinance your mortgage. You can do this easily with Credible’s free online tool and see your prequalified rates in only three minutes.
How does Credible calculate refinance rates?
Changing economic conditions, central bank policy decisions, investor sentiment and other factors influence the movement of mortgage refinance rates. Credible average mortgage refinance rates reported in this article are calculated based on information provided by partner lenders who pay compensation to Credible.
The rates assume a borrower has a 740 credit score and is borrowing a conventional loan for a single-family home that will be their primary residence. The rates also assume no (or very low) discount points and a down payment of 20%.
Credible mortgage refinance rates reported here will only give you an idea of current average rates. The rate you receive can vary based on a number of factors.
Think it might be the right time to refinance? Be sure to shop around and compare rates with multiple mortgage lenders. You can do this easily with Credible and see your prequalified rates in only three minutes.
What is the average cost of a refinance?
Generally, you’ll encounter costs — $5,000 on average, according to Freddie Mac — when refinancing your mortgage.
Your exact refinancing costs will depend on multiple factors, including the size of your loan and where you live. Typical refinancing costs include:
- The cost of recording your new mortgage
- Appraisal fees
- Attorney fees
- Lender fees, such as origination or underwriting
- Title service fees
- Credit report fees
- Mortgage points
- Prepaid interest charges
Keep in mind there’s no such thing as a truly no-cost refinance. Lenders who market "no-cost loans" typically charge a higher interest rate and roll the costs into the loan — which means you’ll pay more interest over the life of the loan.
Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
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As a Credible authority on mortgages and personal finance, Chris Jennings has covered topics that include mortgage loans, mortgage refinancing, and more. He’s been an editor and editorial assistant in the online personal finance space for four years. His work has been featured by MSN, AOL, Yahoo Finance, and more.
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Car insurance costs are rising in 2022, and this state could see a 20% jump: report
The cost of car insurance is expected to increase in 2022 across the U.S., with some states potentially seeing average double-digit growth from some of the largest auto insurance companies. Furthermore, some areas around the country are already experiencing growth.
In 2021, the national average car insurance cost rose to $1,529, a 3% jump from 2020, according to The Zebra’s 2022 State of Auto Insurance Report. In fact, the company's report notes that rates have ballooned 28% over the past 10 years across the country. In the past year alone, The Zebra found that Louisiana ranked highest when it comes to annual rate ($3,265), and New Hampshire was the lowest ($999).
"In 2021, drivers began taking their cars out of ‘park’ and returned to the roads," Nicole Beck, The Zebra's head of communications, said. "More drivers can lead to more potential accidents [occurring]. As soon as the number of claims filed increases, so will insurance rates. However, drivers aren’t powerless – to lower rates, practice safe driving behaviors and take every precaution to protect your vehicles from damages caused by extreme weather."
If you're looking for ways to reduce the cost of your car insurance, consider shopping around among different auto insurance companies. Visit Credible to compare quotes free of charge.
Car insurance increases vary by state
The rising average cost of car insurance varies by state across the U.S., and in fact, the Dallas Morning News reported that notices filed with the state's Department of Insurance indicated that some insurance companies are planning rate hikes of more than 20% on average.
In Arizona, drivers are seeing similar patterns. Filings from the state's Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions showed that Geico, Allstate, Progressive and Farmers all applied premium rate increases dating back to the middle of 2021, according to a report from tucson.com. Geico, the report says, implemented an 8% increase in November 2021, while Allstate filed a 7% increase in March of this year.
Furthermore, insurance costs are projected to likely keep going up over the course of the year. According to a report from Insurify, rates are projected to grow another 5% in 2022, driven by surging inflation.
Drivers can stay ahead of future increases by making sure that they have the car insurance policy that's best-suited for them. Visit Credible to compare quotes from multiple auto insurance providers at once and choose the one with the best rate for you.
Here's how you can keep your auto insurance premiums low
Drivers can take several steps when it comes to lowering the cost of their car insurance. In addition to avoiding violations like speeding tickets or at-fault accidents that require insurance claims, here are some ways that drivers can save:
Improve your credit score
Having a better credit score can help you lock in a better rate on your car insurance. Many car insurance companies perform credit checks before giving drivers their rates, and having poor credit can drive up rates when compared to drivers with excellent credit, according to The Zebra.
"The difference in average auto insurance rates between the lowest level of credit and the highest is upward of $1,500 per year," the company said.
Monitoring your credit can be helpful when it comes to improving your credit score. Visit Credible to enroll in free credit monitoring services today.
Shop multiple auto insurance companies
Car insurance companies offer a variety of discounts for drivers that meet certain criteria. These include good student discounts, safe driver, bundling and more, and can lead to savings over time.
Searching for new auto insurance could ensure you continue to receive the best rate possible and help you avoid higher premiums. Visit Credible to speak to an auto insurance expert and get all of your questions answered.
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Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
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Sheriff: Former Pasco CPI arrested for falsifying DCF documents after trainee spots discrepancies
NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. - The sheriff of Pasco County said a former child protective investigator, who was with the agency for about five years, was arrested for knowingly filling out false information in official documents.
During a press conference on Monday morning, Sheriff Chris Nocco identified the former employee as 29-year-old Jennifer Lewis, who was employed from January 2016 to March 2021.
"Her role was to protect children. It’s probably one of the toughest roles in our agency," Sheriff Chris Nocco said Monday. "Jennifer Lewis failed in those responsibilities."
The sheriff said on two occasions, she said she met with people when she didn't – but it took a trainee to notice the discrepancies.
READ: Pasco teacher accused of ‘always making sexual jokes’ arrested for lewd conduct, battery
"The trainee came forward and said to her supervisor, ‘There is a problem here. This does not match up,’" Nocco explained, adding that Lewis resigned "very quickly."
The sheriff's office reviewed the 27 current cases that Lewis was assigned to, saying that while there were some discrepancies, nothing, so far, indicated someone was in danger or harmed.
"The story does not stop there for us. We have to go back, and we have to make sure everything is done properly," Sheriff Nocco said. "I applaud that trainee for doing what she did."
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Lewis faces felony counts of falsifying and altering Department of Children and Families' documents. She was booked Friday into county jail but bonded out two hours later.
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‘So You Think You Can Dance’ returns: JoJo Siwa, tWitch, Matthew Morrison to judge
Chicago - Break out your tap shoes, ballroom attire and fog machines: "So You Think You Can Dance" is returning at last.
FOX has announced that the Emmy-winning reality competition series, which has been off the air since the fall of 2019, will pirouette back onto screens on Wednesday, May 18 at 9 p.m. ET, following the season finale of fellow reality juggernaut "The Masked Singer."
Cat Deeley will return as host, joined by an exciting new panel of judges. SYTYCD fave Stephen "tWitch" Boss returns to the series and takes his shiny new seat at the judges’ table. He’s joined by "Glee" star Matthew Morrison and dancer, singer and social media sensation JoJo Siwa.
WATCH FREE ON TUBI: tWitch hosts "The Real Dirty Dancing"
Of the returning series, FOX Entertainment said in a release: "The brand-new version will feature highly skilled dancers between the ages of 18 and 30, showcasing their talents in various dance styles, including contemporary, tap, hip-hop, ballroom, animation, breaking and more. Those who are selected to move on to the SYTYCD studio will work with world-renowned choreographers and compete each week in a variety of styles, with brand-new twists and turns introduced into the competition."
After the show airs on FOX in its Wednesday timeslot, episodes will be available to watch on Tubi, FOX’s free streaming platform. Audiences can also find it on Hulu, FOX Now and On Demand.
WATCH FREE ON TUBI: JoJo Siwa in "Celebrity Watch Party"
More on the return of this reality powerhouse from FOX’s press release:
Over the course of its 16 seasons, "So You Think You Can Dance" has received 71 Emmy Award nominations and garnered 17 Emmy Award wins, including Outstanding Choreography, Outstanding Costumes, as well as awards in Outstanding Lighting Design.
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE: FINALE: America’s Favorite Dancer is Bailey Munoz on the Season Finale of SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE airing live, Monday, Sept. 16 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. ©2019 Fox Media LLC. Cr: Adam Rose
"So You Think You Can Dance" is from Industrial Media’s 19 Entertainment and MRC. The series is executive-produced by co-creator Nigel Lythgoe, Jeff Thacker, Rosie Seitchik, Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman on behalf of 19 Entertainment. Seitchik also will serve as showrunner. Visit the "So You Think You Can Dance" site at fox.com/dance to view exclusive videos and photos. "Like" "So You Think You Can Dance" on Facebook at SoYouThinkYouCanDance. Follow the series on Twitter @DANCEonFOX and on Instagram @DANCEonFOX and join the discussion using #SYTYCD. Follow the Reality Club on Fox on Facebook at RealityClubFOX, on Instagram @RealityClubFOX and on Twitter @RealityClubFOX.
ABOUT CAT DEELEY: Cat Deeley is an author and one of the foremost television presenters, both in the United States and the U.K. Deeley has received five Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program for her hosting role on SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE. Additionally, Deeley won the 2015 and 2012 Critics Choice Award for Best Reality Host for her role on the series. She is a double BAFTA Award winner and published her first book, "The Joy in You," in 2020.
ABOUT STEPHEN "TWITCH" BOSS: Stephen "tWitch" Boss continues to make a splash in the entertainment world with his multitude of talents. The memorable contestant, All-Star and judge of SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE is a staple on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" as its resident dancer, DJ and co-executive producer. He most recently was seen as the host of the television series "The Real Dirty Dancing" and "Clash of the Cover Bands." Boss resides in Los Angeles, with his wife, fellow dance artist and host, Allison, and their three children – Weslie, Maddox, and Zaia.
ABOUT MATTHEW MORRISON: Matthew Morrison is a multi-hyphenate who is recognized for his work on stage and on screen, and has been nominated for a Tony, Emmy and two Golden Globe Awards. Morrison became a true household name when he was cast as a series regular on "Glee," starring as "Mr. Schuester," the director of the glee club. He most recently starred in "American Horror Story." He also has starred on Broadway in hits "Hairspray," "The Light In The Piazza," "South Pacific" and "Finding Neverland." Morrison has toured globally with his vast repertoire of music that encompasses his established career across television, stage and recordings.
ABOUT JOJO SIWA: JoJo Siwa is a global superstar, singer, television and film star, best-selling author and social media sensation. Siwa has more than 66 million followers on social media and more than 3.7 billion views on YouTube. She was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2020. She recently wrapped her first-ever concert tour with more than 130 shows, selling out arenas and becoming the youngest artist ever to headline and sell out the O2 Arena. Siwa also served as creative director and executive producer of the reality competition series "Siwa’s Dance Pop Revolution," on which she discovered the new pop group XOMG Pop! She recently was featured in "Dancing with the Stars," during which she made history as the first contestant to dance with a same-sex partner and earned a People’s Choice Award for Competition Contestant of 2021.
More great dancing, streaming (for free!) on Tubi
Howard High (2022): A modern-age "Bring It On," "Howard High" is an energetic teen musical that follows a high school performance group who must compete against a rival school in order to save their arts program. The crowd-pleasing film from "You Got Served" director Chris Stokes is inspired by his 2020 TV mini-series of the same name, which is also streaming on Tubi. With its talented cast of up-and-comers, "Howard High" shines a light on the challenges that school arts programs face in underfunded neighborhoods — all through the power of song and dance. "Howard High" is a Tubi Original. Rated TV-14. 102 minutes. Dir: Chris Stokes. Featuring: Chrissy Stokes, Veronika Bozeman, Lindsay Diann, Jarell Houston, Dylan Mooney.
The Real Dirty Dancing (2022): "So You Think You Can Dance" fave Stephen "tWitch" Boss hosts this unique reality dance competition, in which famous folks master (or attempt to master) legendary dances from the beloved movie. Will they have the time of their lives? You’ll have to get out of that corner and watch to find out. Reality competition series. Rated TV-14. One season streaming on Tubi.
Guys and Dolls (1955): There are many reasons to watch this classic movie musical, from the iconic costuming to the fabulous dance numbers, but two rise above the rest. First: It’s a chance to watch Vivian Blaine sniffle through the comic masterpiece "Adelaide’s Lament," a performance that repeatedly brought down the house when she originated the role on Broadway. Second, and even more importantly: Perhaps you, dear reader, will be the one to solve the mystery of why the folks at MGM decided to give Marlon Brando the singing role and Frank Sinatra the acting role. TV-PG. 159 minutes. Dir: Joseph L. Mankiewicz. Also featuring Jean Simmons and Stubby Kaye.
About Tubi: Tubi has more than 35,000 movies and television series from over 250 content partners, including every major studio, in addition to the largest offering of free live local and national news channels in streaming. The platform gives fans of entertainment, news and sports an easy way to discover new content that is available completely free.
Tubi is available on Android and iOS mobile devices, Amazon Echo Show, Google Nest Hub Max, Comcast Xfinity X1, Cox Contour, and on OTT devices such as Amazon Fire TV, Vizio TVs, Sony TVs, Samsung TVs, Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, Android TV, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X | S, and soon on Hisense TVs globally. Consumers can also watch Tubi content on the web at http://www.tubi.tv/.
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Tubi and this television station are both owned by the FOX Corporation.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/three-missing-kids-from-marion-county-found-safe-in-georgia-authorities-say
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Three missing kids from Marion County found safe in Georgia, authorities say
MARION COUNTY, Fla. - Three children who were missing from Marion County in Florida and believed to be endangered have been found safe in Dooly County, Georgia, the Marion County Sheriff's Office said Monday.
All three were in "good health" and in the care of the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), the agency said.
Dooly County is about 3 ½ hours from Marion County, according to Google Maps.
Authorities issued an alert for the children, who ranged in age between being a newborn to two years old, after their parents, Jaron Donald LaDuke, 29, and Ashley Sue Winningham, 28, allegedly took the kids to avoid them being placed into custody with DCF, according to Marion County Sheriff's Office.
The Marion County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's help in finding three children after believing their safety is at risk in the company of their parents.
An AMBER Alert was not issued. Typically, specific requirements need to be met in order for that type of alert to be issued.
It is not clear if LaDuke or Winningham were found with the children or were taken into custody. MCSO said there was not an arrest warrant issued for either of them and deferred additional questions to DCF.
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FOX 35 has reached out to DCF for additional information.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/a-fed-animal-is-a-dead-animal-florida-sanctuary-reminding-visitors-to-not-feed-wildlife
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'A fed animal is a dead animal': Florida sanctuary reminding visitors to not feed wildlife
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. - A sanctuary in Brevard County is again warning visitors not to feed the wildlife, including alligators and turtles, with a stern warning: it can be a death sentence for the animal or reptile.
The signs are everywhere. "Do not feed or disturb alligators," reads one sign. "A fed animal is a dead animal," reads another.
It's a growing problem, which forced the sanctuary to post a warning on its Facebook page.
The reason? By feeding the wildlife, it teaches the wildlife to depend on people for food, changes their natural behavior, and encouraged them to interact with humans, which can be dangerous for humans.
"They were feeding the turtles. The alligators kind of decided that was cool and it was literally sitting there almost begging at the canoe deck, it just had its little head sticking up over the water," said Park Ranger Assistant Lisa Bassett.
Once an animal becomes a threat to visitors, park employees must euthanize them.
To avoid that, park rangers want to spread the word to visitors, especially during their busier seasons. Some people are starting to pay attention, she said.
"They are wild animals and not only are you teaching them habits, most of the time it is not even good stuff that they are eating," she said.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/axiom-schedule
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Axiom, SpaceX shift planned launch of Ax-1 mission to Friday
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - As NASA worked through delays to a wet dress rehearsal for the Artemis moon mission Space Launch System this weekend, other planned launches for the week had to be shuffled to future dates.
Axiom Space and SpaceX are moving the launch date for the upcoming Ax-1 crewed mission to Friday, April 8. It was scheduled for liftoff on Wednesday, but delays with Artemis impacted that launch.
A former decorated NASA astronaut and an international crew of paying customers will become the first to dock at the International Space Station as an all-private mission flying in SpaceX's Crew Dragon spacecraft next month.
RELATED: Artemis wet dress rehearsal delayed again over venting issues
The crew will fly on SpaceX's Dragon Endeavour capsule to and from the space station and splash down off the coast of Florida following 10 days in orbit.
RELATED: Meet the men behind the all-private mission to the ISS
The Ax-1 mission will lift off from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center at 11:17 a.m.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/disney-announces-opening-date-for-guardians-of-the-galaxy-cosmic-rewind-ride
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'Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind' coaster opens at Disney World in May
ORLANDO, Fla. - "It's save the galaxy time!"
Walt Disney World announced on Monday that its highly anticipated "Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Reward" attraction will open in May at EPCOT!
The company made the announcement on Monday morning.
WHEN DOES THE GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY RIDE OPEN?
"The ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ are on their way to EPCOT, and we better be ready for an intergalactic chase through time and space," Disney Parks Blog reports. "It all begins May 27 when ‘Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind’ releases its awesome mixtape of an attraction to the world."
Disney had teased the big announcement last week on Instagram. Disney Parks Blog posted a clip of the "Awesome Mix vol. Cosmic Rewind" playing in a tape deck. "Love Rollercoaster" by Ohio Players plays before the tape glitches and the word "Monday" is displayed.
Last week, Disney World gave us a first look inside the queue for the ride. A photo showed the "Galaxarium" section of the queue which is a planetarium-style space that displays planets and stars.
RELATED: Disney releases new photos, opening timeline for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Disney Parks Blog
"'Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind' is an omnicoaster - for fans, similar to the omnirider Haunted Mansion, where the guest is pointed toward the show sets," FOX Business reported.
RELATED: 'Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind' to open Memorial Day weekend at EPCOT: report
The family-friendly roller coaster has been described as a "storycoaster" that rotates 360 degrees as you help the Guardians save the galaxy. It will also feature the first reverse launch on a coaster in Disney history and is one of the longest enclosed coasters in the world.
Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World
Guardians fans have been getting little sneak peeks at the upcoming ride over the past few months. Renderings released show Xandar Gallery. According to Disney Parks Blog, it's "where you’ll discover more about the Xandarian people, culture and history, including their heroes like … the Guardians of the Galaxy! It’s all well and good until they show up, of course, and adventure ensues in an intergalactic chase through time and space."
Another cool surprise is that Glenn Close will reprise her role as Nova Prime, the leader of Xandar and commander of the Nova Corps. You can catch Nova Prime in the new Wonders of Xandar "other-world" pavilion.
PHOTOS: Inside EPCOT'S new ‘Guardian of the Galaxy’ attraction
The new attraction is part of EPCOT's overall transformation and Walt Disney World's 50th anniversary celebration which is underway now.
Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/florida-covid-19-hospitalizations-below-1000
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Florida COVID-19 hospitalizations below 1,000
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Fewer than 1,000 Florida hospital inpatients have COVID-19, after a steady decline in hospitalizations in February and March, according to data posted online Monday by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The data showed that 975 patients had COVID-19, down from 2,418 a month earlier. As a broader comparison, 8,798 inpatients had COVID-19 on Feb. 1.
Also, the new data showed that 101 COVID-19 patients were in intensive-care units, compared to 1,319 on Feb. 1. COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations surged in December and January because of the highly contagious omicron variant of the coronavirus before dropping.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/florida-other-states-sue-over-immigration-enforcement
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Florida, other states sue over immigration enforcement
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Florida, Alabama and Georgia filed a federal lawsuit Monday alleging that the Biden administration is not properly deporting undocumented immigrants who commit crimes.
Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and Georgia Attorney General Christopher Carr filed the 24-page lawsuit in the federal Northern District of Alabama. It alleges that the Biden administration has violated a law known as the Administrative Procedure Act by not properly deporting criminals.
"It [the Biden administration] claims the discretion to decide for itself which aliens should be arrested, detained and removed, even if its policy preferences directly conflict with the clear commands of Congress," the lawsuit said. "And it has used that claimed discretion to allow illegal immigrants guilty of drug trafficking, burglary and other serious crimes to return to our communities upon release from state custody rather than arresting and removing them as federal law requires."
Moody also has filed other lawsuits about Biden administration immigration policies, including a case that is pending in federal court in Pensacola. In December, Moody’s office dropped an appeal in another case, saying it was moot because of changes in policies.
RELATED: DeSantis blames Biden administration's border policies following murder of Daytona Beach couple
Gov. Ron DeSantis last week blamed President Joe Biden's immigration policies for the brutal stabbing death of a Daytona Beach couple.
Jean R. Macean, a citizen of Haiti, faces two first-degree murder counts for the killings of Terry Aultman, 48, and Brenda Aultman, 55. Investigators say the Aultmans were riding their bikes home from Bike Week earlier this month when Macean picked them at random and stabbed them to death.
In a news release from the governor's office, DeSantis highlighted that Macean was previously arrested in Orange County in 2019 on multiple drug-related charges that were eventually dropped by then-State Attorney for the Ninth Judicial Circuit, Aramis Ayala.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/momma-dog-7-pups-rescued-from-home-in-orlando
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Momma dog, 7 pups rescued from home in Orlando
ORLANDO, Fla. - A dog and her seven puppies were rescued from a home in Orlando and are now being cared for at a shelter.
The momma boxer mix and her pups are safe and sound at Ziggy's Legacy Rescue in Hernando County, but that wasn't the case just a few days ago.
A concerned resident reached out to Orange County Animal Services after noticing an underweight dog in someone's yard, according to the agency.
The mother was "emaciated" but her seven newborn pups appeared health. All were estimated to be roughly three weeks old. A police officer with the Orlando Police Department also assisted with the rescue. The homeowner denied owning the dogs and no one came forward to claim them.
Rescuers said the boxer was so thin, a small collar slipped right off her neck.
"She’s such a great mom. She’s always looking for her puppies and always taking care of them," said Orange County Animal Services spokesperson Hannah Griffith.
"Unfortunately, we have seen a lot of dogs in her condition. It’s not an uncommon thing. Especially while feeding puppies," Griffith said.
The pups are still nursing, but now they will get to do it from their much healthier mom.
Along with getting to eat regularly, they're also getting dewormed.
The puppies should be ready to adopt in a few weeks.
Rescuers hope people will give this mama and her pups a chance.
"A lot of times they come to us scared, and then they come out of their shell, and it’s the best thing to watch," Griffith said.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/student-at-new-smyrna-beach-high-school-killed-by-alleged-drunk-driver-police-say
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Student at New Smyrna Beach High School killed by alleged drunk driver, police say
NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. - A 17-year-old student at New Smyrna Beach High School died over the weekend after he and his family were struck by an alleged impaired driver whose license was already suspended for DUI, according to police and records.
Siddharth Sukhdeo and his dad and mom were on their way back from Orlando late Sunday after celebrating Sukhdeo's birthday when they were struck by another driver near State Route 44 and Interstate 95, according to the teen's family. Sukhdeo died, police said, and his mom and dad were treated at the hospital.
According to police, Michael Miles, 32, was behind the wheel when he struck the Sukhdeo's vehicle sometime after 3 a.m., and showed signs of being impaired, including the smell of alcohol and slurred speech, according to police reports and charging documents. He was also allegedly driving on a suspended license related to another DUI from March 2021, according to police records.
(Family photos/FOX 35)
A judge ordered Miles to be held on a $100,000 bond. He was booked into jail on multiple counts of DUI, refusing to submit to DUI testing, and driving while on a suspended license.
Michael Miles, 32, was booked into jail on multiple counts of DUI, refusing to submit to DUI testing, and driving while on a suspended license. He made an appearance before a Volusia County judge on Monday, April 4, 2022.
Sukhdeo dad told FOX 35 that his son had big dreams. He played several instruments and was in the band at New Smyrna Beach High School.
In a letter to families on Sunday, New Smyrna Beach High School Principal Tim Merrick said grief counselors would be on campus and available virtually throughout the week.
"It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of one of our students. This is indeed a very sad day for the students, faculty, and staff members of NSB High School," Merrick said in the letter.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/6-injured-including-children-after-crash-on-i-95-in-palm-coast
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6 injured, including children, after crash on I-95 in Palm Coast
PALM COAST, Fla. - Six people are hurt, including 2 children, after a crash on I-95 in Palm Coast on Monday night.
Authorities say this happened just after 9 p.m. The Florida Highway Patrol says one of the vehicles burst into flames.
MORE NEWS: Dozens of flights canceled, delayed at Orlando airport for 3rd day in a row
Troopers say a 7-year-old girl is in critical condition and an 8-year-old boy is in serious condition.
The other victims have minor injuries. Check back for updates.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/body-cam-shows-armed-walmart-shopper-being-tased-by-marion-county-deputy
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Body cam shows armed Walmart shopper being tased by Marion County deputy
SUMMERFIELD, Fla. - An armed and belligerent discount shopper is behind bars after Marion County deputies say she was waving around a knife at a Walmart and was unwilling to drop it.
Body camera video shows the moment a deputy was forced to use a taser on her after she ignored commands to drop her weapon.
According to the Marion County Sheriff, 32-year-old Brandy McGowan walked into the Walmart on Highway 441 in Summerfield last Wednesday afternoon. Store employees say she started threatening customers with a brick.
MORE NEWS: Investigation into teen's deadly fall at Orlando FreeFall ride could take months
They say she then found a pocket knife for sale and opened it up in the store with some scissors.
Employees say she kept threatening staff and customers with the knife.
"Drop the knife now!" the deputy says in the video.
When McGowan didn't comply, the deputy deployed the taser.
"After McGowan was arrested, it was discovered that she ingested approximately four grams of methamphetamine earlier in the day. She was first transported to the hospital for evaluation," the sheriff's office said.
McGowan was transported to the Marion County Jail. She's being charged with aggravated assault.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/daytona-beach-firefighters-pull-woman-from-car-in-pond-seconds-before-it-sinks
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Daytona Beach firefighters pull woman from car in pond seconds before it sinks
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - A woman who crashed into a pond and was trapped in the car was rescued by some quick-thinking Daytona Beach firefighters.
The Daytona Beach Fire Department posted photos of the rescue on Tuesday. They say the woman crashed into a pond in front of a Target store and could not get out.
MORE NEWS: 'Operation April Fools' leads to 22 child sex arrests in Marion County
"Firefighters quickly swam over to her and assisted her in getting out and making it safely to land."
MORE NEWS: Hail the size of golf balls shatter car windows in Florida
The car ended up sinking just seconds later. It was then pulled out of the water by a tow truck.
The woman was not hurt.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/i-thought-i-was-dying-father-daughter-talk-being-struck-by-lightning-in-raymond-james-parking-lot
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'I thought I was dying': Father, daughter survive after being struck by lightning in Raymond James parking lot
TAMPA, Fla. - Ashley Moberg has become a statistic.
"One in 500,000, and it turns out once you've been struck it's 1 in 100,000 of getting struck again," she said.
She and her dad John were in town over the weekend for a Yankees' spring training game in Tampa but what should've been a nice daddy-daughter day didn't quite go as planned. Both she and her 74-year-old dad were hit by lightning after the game was called off. They were heading to their car in the Raymond James Stadium parking lot.
"There's a bright flash and there's a loud boom, next thing I know I’m flying through the air," she said. "I see my dad hit his face on the ground and my ears are ringing, I land on the ground."
"I thought I was dying. I thought my dad was dead for about 10 seconds, and he starts calling me for help," she said.
READ: Downed power lines, damages reported after hail falls in Highlands County, officials say
Her dad got a black eye from the tumble, and they were hospitalized for two nights.
"I was knocked totally unconscious when I woke up my face was in the mud I couldn’t move I was totally paralyzed," said John Moberg.
PREVIOUS: TPD: 2 struck by lightning at Raymond James Stadium
Thankfully, both are doing much better now and flew home Monday, packed with souvenirs and a story most wouldn't believe.
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"We will be coming back, and I’m also planning on getting a lightning bolt tattoo," Ashley Moberg said.
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https://www.wogx.com/news/operation-april-fools-leads-to-22-child-sex-arrests-in-marion-county
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22 men arrested, accused of child sex crimes in undercover Marion County sting operation
MARION COUNTY, Fla. - A sting operation in Marion County led to the arrest of 22 men who allegedly tried to meet children for sex.
"Operation April Fools" was conducted by the Marion County Sheriff's Office with help from several other law enforcement agencies.
"Law enforcement officers went undercover and exchanged messages with 19 men who ultimately traveled to locations in Marion County with the expectation that they were meeting a child between the ages of 12 and 16 for sexual activity," the sheriff's office said in a news release.
The men allegedly engaged "sexually explicit conversations, graphically describing the sexual acts they hoped to perform with the child," the agency said.
When the men arrived at the scheduled meeting place, they were arrested. Eight additional men, who did not travel to meet a child, had arrest warrants issued for sending sexually explicit pictures to individuals they believed were minors. Three were arrested and deputies are still looking for the other five.
"A child’s innocence is something we should all strive to protect," said Sheriff Billy Woods in a written statement. "I will continue to use all of my resources to hunt down these predators so they may never hurt a child."
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https://www.wogx.com/news/tornado-watch-in-effect-for-part-of-florida-panhandle
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Tornado Watch in effect for part of Florida Panhandle
ORLANDO, Fla. - Tuesday marks a 3-day run of FOX 35 WEATHER IMPACT DAYS!
The western Panhandle has upgraded to a "LEVEL-3 VERY LIKELY" mode of severe weather for this afternoon. The tornado risk is rising in this area.
A Tornado Watch is in effect for the western Florida Panhandle until 3 p.m. A watch means conditions are becoming favorable for tornado formation.
Damaging wind gusts, a few tornadoes, heavy rain and lots of lightning will occur in the watch area.
Central Florida remains in a "LEVEL-1 POSSIBLE" risk mode for this afternoon with emphasis on strong storm formation closer to the I-95 corridor and the Atlantic beach front communities and counties after 3 p.m. today. There are NO SEVERE WEATHER WATCHES IN EFFECT for our area currently.
The most active areas through Wednesday will be closer to the coastal counties and the I-95 corridor. On Thursday, the storm risk spreads out across the Peninsula as a cold front will finally drive south through Central Florida.
DOWNLOAD: FOX 35 NEWS APP | FOX 35 STORM TEAM WEATHER APP
HIGH IN ORLANDO
It will be hot and steamy across Central Florida with highs in the upper 80s to around 90-degrees. A high of 88 is expected in Orlando.
WILL IT RAIN AT THE DISNEY OR UNIVERSAL TODAY?
The highest storm risk is after 12 p.m. on Tuesday. By 5 p.m., there's a 40% risk of storms in the theme park area.
WHEN WILL IT BE COLD IN ORLANDO?
Temperatures will drop down into the 50s this weekend in Central Florida. Saturday wake-up temps will be around 55 and Sunday will be even colder at 50-degrees.
Stay with the FOX 35 STORM TEAM for the very latest as we're always watching, always tracking.
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https://www.wogx.com/money/home-price-increases-january
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Home prices surge in January after months of growth deceleration, data shows
Home prices surged 19.2% annually in January, according to the latest S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Indices, a measure of U.S. home prices. This marks the highest annual increase for any January on record and was a turnaround from the past several months that saw annual home price gains decelerating.
This increase is up from the 18.9% annual home price gain seen in December. On a month-over-month basis, the home price index increased 1.1% from December to January alone, according to the report.
"Last fall we observed that home prices, although continuing to rise quite sharply, had begun to decelerate," S&P DJI Managing Director Craig Lazzara said. "Even that modest deceleration was on pause in January. The 19.2% year-over-year change for January was the fourth-largest reading in 35 years of history."
Borrowers can take advantage of this strong gain by tapping into their home equity through a cash-out refinance. Visit Credible to find your personalized interest rate and get prequalified in minutes without affecting your credit score.
MORTGAGE RATES SURGE A QUARTER PERCENTAGE POINT – HERE'S WHY YOU SHOULD LOCK IN YOUR RATE NOW
Many cities see home price growth re-accelerate in January
About 80% of metros saw home price growth re-accelerate in January after slowing down at the end of last year, according to the report. Some of the strongest gains were in Florida and Arizona.
"After four months of slowing or flat growth, home price growth sped up in January, and the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Index registered a 19.2% year-over-year increase – the strongest January year-over-year increase in [the] series’ history," CoreLogic Deputy Chief Economist Selma Hepp said. "Eight in 10 metros experienced re-hastening of home price gains, particularly those in the West and along the Southeast."
The average home price gain for the top 10 cities increased 17.5% annually, up from last month’s annual increase of 17.1%. When looking at the top 20 cities, home prices increased 19.1% annually, up from 18.6% in December.
Of the top cities, Phoenix, Tampa and Miami saw the highest annual home price gains at 32.6%, 30.8% and 28.1%, respectively. This marks nearly three years (32 months) where Phoenix has led the way in home price gains, the report said.
If you are interested in taking advantage of rising home prices, you could consider a cash-out refinance to tap into your home equity. Visit Credible to compare multiple mortgage lenders at once and choose the one with the best interest rate for you.
AVERAGE HOMEOWNER GAINED OVER $55K IN EQUITY IN 2021: CORELOGIC REPORT
Expert says home price re-acceleration was expected
Although interest rates are rising — with the 30-year mortgage rate sitting well above the 4% mark, according to the latest data from Freddie Mac — home price growth has not slowed. But one expert said this re-acceleration in the housing market was not surprising as demand continued to put upward pressure on low inventory going into the spring buying season.
"While the re-acceleration of home price gains may be concerning, and likely discouraging for first-time and younger buyers, it is nevertheless unsurprising considering the dire inventory of for-sale homes, which continues to decline and continually record new lows," Hepp said. "With mortgage rates jumping to three-year highs, existing homeowners now have little incentive to sell and buy a new, more expensive home with a higher mortgage rate.
"And while surging interest rates were expected to have a dampening effect on demand, there are still many buyers in the market who are able to afford the rising costs of homeownership," she said. "As a result, buyer competition this spring surged again and two out of three homes sold over the asking price – the same as last summer's peak."
Moving forward, economists have forecasted that home price appreciation could begin to slow once again as the Fed continues to push interest rates higher in the year ahead.
"The macroeconomic environment is evolving rapidly," Lazzara said. "Declining COVID cases and a resumption of general economic activity has stoked inflation, and the Federal Reserve has begun to increase interest rates in response. We may soon begin to see the impact of increasing mortgage rates on home prices."
If you are interested in tapping your home equity before rates move higher, you could consider refinancing with a cash-out mortgage now. Contact Credible to speak to a home loan expert to see if this is the right option for you.
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Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
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Today's 30-year mortgage rates hold steady for second straight day | April 5, 2022
Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as "Credible" below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders, all opinions are our own.
Check out the mortgage rates for April 5, 2022, which are mixed from yesterday. (Credible)
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage refinance rates have remained mostly unchanged since yesterday, except for 20-year rates, which dropped.
- 30-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.875%, unchanged
- 20-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.625%, down from 4.875%, -0.250
- 15-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.000%, unchanged
- 10-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.875%, unchanged
Rates last updated on April 5, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary. With 5,000 reviews, Credible maintains an "excellent" Trustpilot score.
What this means: Homeowners who have been waiting to refinance might consider locking in a 20-year refi rate today. Rates for this mid-length term fell by a quarter of a percentage point, making it a good option for homeowners who want to keep their monthly payments manageable.
Today’s mortgage rates for home purchases
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage rates for home purchases have risen for two terms and remained unchanged for two others since yesterday.
- 30-year fixed mortgage rates: 4.875%, unchanged
- 20-year fixed mortgage rates: 4.750%, up from 4.625%, +0.125
- 15-year fixed mortgage rates: 4.000%, unchanged
- 10-year fixed mortgage rates: 3.875%, up from 3.750%, +0.125
Rates last updated on April 5, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary. Credible, a personal finance marketplace, has 5,000 Trustpilot reviews with an average star rating of 4.7 (out of a possible 5.0).
What this means: Rates for a 30-year mortgage, which is the most common repayment term, are holding at 4.875% for the second day in a row. Buyers who want to spread out their mortgage payments over the longest possible term may consider locking in a rate now, which would secure their rate for 30, 60, or even 90 days. Buyers who can manage a slightly higher monthly payment might look to 20-year terms instead, which are slightly lower than 30-year terms and can offer more interest savings.
To find great mortgage rates, start by using Credible’s secured website, which can show you current mortgage rates from multiple lenders without affecting your credit score. You can also use Credible’s mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly mortgage payments.
How mortgage rates have changed over time
Today’s mortgage interest rates are well below the highest annual average rate recorded by Freddie Mac — 16.63% in 1981. A year before the COVID-19 pandemic upended economies across the world, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for 2019 was 3.94%. The average rate for 2021 was 2.96%, the lowest annual average in 30 years.
The historic drop in interest rates means homeowners who have mortgages from 2019 and older could potentially realize significant interest savings by refinancing with one of today’s lower interest rates. When considering a mortgage or refinance, it’s important to take into account closing costs such as appraisal, application, origination and attorney’s fees. These factors, in addition to the interest rate and loan amount, all contribute to the cost of a mortgage.
Are you looking to buy a home? Credible can help you compare current rates from multiple mortgage lenders at once in just a few minutes. Use Credible’s online tools to compare rates and get prequalified today.
Thousands of Trustpilot reviewers rate Credible "excellent."
How Credible mortgage rates are calculated
Changing economic conditions, central bank policy decisions, investor sentiment, and other factors influence the movement of mortgage rates. Credible average mortgage rates and mortgage refinance rates reported in this article are calculated based on information provided by partner lenders who pay compensation to Credible.
The rates assume a borrower has a 740 credit score and is borrowing a conventional loan for a single-family home that will be their primary residence. The rates also assume no (or very low) discount points and a down payment of 20%.
Credible mortgage rates reported here will only give you an idea of current average rates. The rate you actually receive can vary based on a number of factors.
Factors that influence mortgage rates (and are out of your control)
Many factors influence the interest rate a lender may offer you. Some — such as your credit score — are in your control. But others you have no ability to affect, such as:
- The economy — During financial downturns, the Fed may lower interest rates to try to stimulate the economy. And when the economy is doing well, interest rates can rise.
- Inflation — Interest rates tend to move with inflation. When the overall cost of goods and services increases, interest rates are also likely to rise.
- The Federal Reserve — The Fed may choose to lower interest rates to stimulate a struggling economy, or raise rates in an attempt to put the brakes on inflation.
- Macro employment trends — When many people are out of work, as they were during the months of pandemic lockdown, mortgage rates may fall. As employment increases, interest rates typically also increase.
If you’re trying to find the right mortgage rate, consider using Credible. You can use Credible's free online tool to easily compare multiple lenders and see prequalified rates in just a few minutes.
Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
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As a Credible authority on mortgages and personal finance, Chris Jennings has covered topics that include mortgage loans, mortgage refinancing, and more. He’s been an editor and editorial assistant in the online personal finance space for four years. His work has been featured by MSN, AOL, Yahoo Finance, and more.
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Savings window open: Today’s 20-year mortgage refinance rates fall | April 5, 2022
Our goal here at Credible Operations, Inc., NMLS Number 1681276, referred to as "Credible" below, is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we do promote products from our partner lenders, all opinions are our own.
Based on data compiled by Credible, mortgage refinance rates have fallen for one mid-length term and remained unchanged for three other terms since yesterday.
- 30-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.875%, unchanged
- 20-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.625%, down from 4.875%, -0.250
- 15-year fixed-rate refinance: 4.000%, unchanged
- 10-year fixed-rate refinance: 3.875%, unchanged
Rates last updated on April 5, 2022. These rates are based on the assumptions shown here. Actual rates may vary.
If you’re thinking of doing a cash-out refinance or refinancing your home mortgage to lower your interest rate, consider using Credible. Credible's free online tool will let you compare rates from multiple mortgage lenders. You can see prequalified rates in as little as three minutes.
What this means: Homeowners who have been waiting to refinance might consider locking in a 20-year refi rate today. Rates for this mid-length term fell by a quarter of a percentage point, making it a good option for homeowners who want to keep their monthly payments manageable. Homeowners who lock in their rate today can secure interest savings on a mortgage before rates rise further.
WHAT IS CASH-OUT REFINANCING AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
How mortgage rates have changed over time
Today’s mortgage interest rates are well below the highest annual average rate recorded by Freddie Mac — 16.63% in 1981. A year before the COVID-19 pandemic upended economies across the world, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for 2019 was 3.94%. The average rate for 2021 was 2.96%, the lowest annual average in 30 years.
The historic drop in interest rates means homeowners who have mortgages from 2019 and older could potentially realize significant interest savings by refinancing with one of today’s lower interest rates.
If you’re ready to take advantage of current mortgage refinance rates that are below average historical lows, you can use Credible to check rates from multiple lenders.
How to get your lowest mortgage refinance rate
If you’re interested in refinancing your mortgage, improving your credit score and paying down any other debt could secure you a lower rate. It’s also a good idea to compare rates from different lenders if you're hoping to refinance so you can find the best rate for your situation.
Borrowers can save $1,500 on average over the life of their loan by shopping for just one additional rate quote, and an average of $3,000 by comparing five rate quotes, according to research from Freddie Mac.
Be sure to shop around and compare current mortgage rates from multiple mortgage lenders if you decide to refinance your mortgage. You can do this easily with Credible’s free online tool and see your prequalified rates in only three minutes.
How does Credible calculate refinance rates?
Changing economic conditions, central bank policy decisions, investor sentiment and other factors influence the movement of mortgage refinance rates. Credible average mortgage refinance rates reported in this article are calculated based on information provided by partner lenders who pay compensation to Credible.
The rates assume a borrower has a 740 credit score and is borrowing a conventional loan for a single-family home that will be their primary residence. The rates also assume no (or very low) discount points and a down payment of 20%.
Credible mortgage refinance rates reported here will only give you an idea of current average rates. The rate you receive can vary based on a number of factors.
Think it might be the right time to refinance? Be sure to shop around and compare rates with multiple mortgage lenders. You can do this easily with Credible and see your prequalified rates in only three minutes.
Are refinance rates higher than purchase rates?
Refinance rates are generally higher than rates for new mortgages to buy a house. Here are some factors that influence the higher rates:
- Risk — A borrower who refinances into a shorter term to get a lower interest rate and pay off their loan sooner may end up with a higher monthly payment. That higher payment could translate into an elevated risk of default. Likewise, in cash-out refinances, the borrower’s debt-to-income ratio rises — and possibly their risk of defaulting.
- Revenue — A lender may be able to make more money off a purchase loan than a refinance. Many homebuyers choose longer terms for purchase mortgages, which come with higher interest rates. Refinancing into a shorter term and/or lower interest rate reduces the amount of interest the lender makes over the life of a loan.
- Costs — Refinancing a mortgage comes with many of the same closing costs you’ll face when you take out a new mortgage, such as an appraisal, attorney fees and more. Closing on a refinance also has costs for the lender. But whereas the lower interest rate and shorter term you get with a refinance benefits you financially, the lender will make less in interest over the life of the refinanced loan.
- Your credit — Hopefully, your credit continues to improve once you become a homeowner. But that’s not always the case for everyone. A homeowner whose credit score has actually fallen since they initially bought the house may look like a bigger risk to lenders — who may charge a higher interest rate to offset the perceived risk.
Have a finance-related question, but don't know who to ask? Email The Credible Money Expert at moneyexpert@credible.com and your question might be answered by Credible in our Money Expert column.
Advertisement
As a Credible authority on mortgages and personal finance, Chris Jennings has covered topics that include mortgage loans, mortgage refinancing, and more. He’s been an editor and editorial assistant in the online personal finance space for four years. His work has been featured by MSN, AOL, Yahoo Finance, and more.
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Ben Crump: Teen's death on Orlando FreeFall 'worst tragedy captured on video' since George Floyd
ORLANDO, Fla. - Lawyers representing the family of Tyre Sampson, the teen who fell off a drop tower ride at ICON Park in March and died, visited the amusement park Tuesday morning in Orlando, Florida to get their first look at the ride.
CONTINUING COVERAGE: Icon Park Death Investigation
Attorney Ben Crump, who represents Yarnell Sampson, Tyre's father, and Michael Haggard, who represents Tyre's mom, Nekia Dodd, were seen talking with various people – presumably inspectors – near the ride.
At one point, someone was seen measuring each of the seats, which along with size, weight restrictions, and restraints have become focal points of the investigation from outside experts, lawmakers, and officials into the teen's death.
"We are doing a thorough investigation into the tragic killing of this 14-year-old child who should have never been killed. We believe this was completely preventable," Crump told reporters in brief remarks.
Asked if there was anything that stood out to him during his investigation, Crump reiterated that he and his team were doing a thorough investigation and that they believed the teen's death was preventable.
"Other than George Floyd's tragic torture video, I think this is the worst tragedy captured on video that I've ever seen," he said. Crump walked to his car and did not answer any further questions.
"We have to find out how this never happens again," Haggard said.
Haggard pointed to the Drop Line ride at Dollywood in Tennessee, a drop tower-style ride that's slightly smaller than Orlando FreeFall, but made by the same manufacturer, FunTime Thrill Rides, as using seatbelts. That ride, however, does not tilt forward like FreeFall in Orlando.
Dollywood did close Drop Line out of an abundance of caution following the death here in Orlando.
Another issue investigators and attorneys are looking at is whether Sampson was too big for the ride and/or restraints.
His dad previously told FOX 35 that his son weighed 340 pounds, which would have exceeded the manufacture's recommended weight limit of 286 pounds. Haggard said Sampson weighed 360 pounds, while noting that there was no scale or signage at the ride.
"There’s a metal detector so you don’t bring your phone on, but there’s no sign about weight and there’s no scale," he said. "How that’s not so much more important than a metal detector for a ride is kind of amazing."
Sampson, who is from St. Louis, Missouri, was visiting Orlando with another family, as part of a football program, according to his dad. He and his friends went to ICON Park to ride the Orlando FreeFall, which opened in December 2021 and was billed as the world's tallest drop tower ride.
RELATED: Orlando FreeFall death: Ride safety experts say teen's harness was not properly secured
The ride takes people some 400 feet into the air, briefly tilts them forward, and then free falls at speeds up to 75 mph back down. As the ride was on its way down, the magnets engaged to presumably slow the fall, and Sampson fell off the ride and onto the ground. He died at the hospital, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Office.
Tyre Sampson, 14, is pictured in a provided family photo.
Orlando FreeFall has been closed since March 24. Barricades have since been placed around the attraction while the investigation is conducted.
The ride is owned by The Slingshot Group, which also owns Orlando Slingshot at ICON Park, the Orlando Starflyer and other rides in Daytona, Panama, and Kissimmee. The Orlando Slingshot ride has also been temporarily closed since the FreeFall incident.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the state agency in charge of inspecting attractions and rides at smaller amusement parks around the state, is investigating what happened.
It's not known when the investigation will be completed. The agency has hired a forensic engineering firm to assist with the investigation.
Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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Carnival Cruise Line reports best-ever booking week after CDC drops COVID cruise ship warning
Carnival Cruise Line said Monday that it had posted its best-ever booking week in the company's history.
The company reported that its busiest booking week was from March 28 to April 3, 2022.
Carnival noted that the week showed a double-digit increase from the previous record seven-day booking total.
"The excitement of the industry’s restart, our successful return of our entire fleet, the guest reaction to Mardi Gras, our loyal guest response to our 50th birthday this year, the support of our travel advisor partners — and of course, the amazing work of our Carnival team — have all contributed to the strong demand we are seeing, and this record-breaking booking week," Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy said in a statement.
CDC LIFTS TRAVEL WARNING FOR THE CRUISE INDUSTRY TWO YEARS INTO PANDEMIC
Duffy added that all sales channels contributed to the results, including Carnival.com, travel advisers, the Carnival guest contact center and personal vacation planners.
Now, 22 of its 23 ships are back in guest operations across all year-round U.S. homeports.
By the end of 2022, it will have more capacity sailing than in 2019.
In 2023, it will put another new Excel-class ship into service: Carnival Jubilee from Galveston, Texas.
With the restart of cruising in Australia, Carnival is also financing plans to return to the country.
"Its final ship, Carnival Splendor, will return to service from Seattle on May 2, and then Carnival will welcome its newest ship, Carnival Celebration, to Port Miami in November," the company said.
This announcement comes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lifted its COVID-19 travel warning for cruises last month.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ON FOX BUSINESS
The travel health notice was lowered from "very high" to "high" in mid-February, then from "high" to "moderate" in mid-March.
"While cruising will always pose some risk of COVID-19 transmission, travelers will make their own risk assessment when choosing to travel on a cruise ship, much like they do in all other travel settings," the agency said.
FOX Business' Paul Best contributed to this report.
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'Sid was incredible, Sid was selfless’: Father speaks at vigil held for son killed in crash
NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. - Family and friends of a beloved teenager killed in a crash held a prayer vigil on Tuesday.
Siddharth Sukhdeo, 17, was traveling home from Orlando early Sunday with his mom and dad when an alleged drunk driver slammed into them on State Road 44 near Interstate 95.
About 200 people were in attendance for the vigil at Halifax Medical Center in Daytona Beach. Sukhdeo’s mother is being treated at the hospital for injuries from that crash. His father left her side to thank the people who came to pay their respects.
"The hardest thing, when we got hit and the trunk was caved in, and the third row was in the second row of the van, who do I save?" he said.
It’s the question no father ever wants to have to ask, but one Satesh Sukhdeo faced on Sunday night. His son died that night
Sukhdeo's classmates honored him with chants from the high school band.
"I just completely broke down, started screaming and crying, but I knew I had to stay strong, and then I started calling everybody else," said friend and classmate Arbelyn Rivera.
Dick Cuchetti taught Sukhdeo at the Cuchetti School of Music for 11 years. He said he was a shining light.
"He was always positive. He never ragged anyone. He loved everybody. Everybody loved him. Next year he was supposed to be the drum major of the NSB band," he said.
Police arrested 32-year-old Michael Miles and charged him with DUI manslaughter. FOX 35 News has learned he posted his $150,000 bond and is out of jail.
On Tuesday evening, the State Attorney's Office had filed a motion to revoke his bond.
Sukhdeo’s mom was sitting in the back seat with her son when they were rear-ended. His dad said she is recovering from surgery to repair eight broken ribs.
"Sid was incredible. Sid was selfless, and he never wanted to see anyone in need," said Sukhdeo of his son.
Another vigil is planned for Thursday at 8 p.m. at the Brannon Center in New Smyrna Beach.
Orlando Weather: Storm alerts, live interactive radar, forecast, and more
Click here for the latest Central Florida news, Florida stories, and local headlines.
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