JOHN MORGAN

Israel Abanikanda ran for 320 yards to break Tony Dorsett’s Pittsburgh record and scored six touchdowns in the Panthers’ 45-29 victory over Virginia Tech on Saturday.

Florida’s minimum wage is set to go up again at the end of September.

You likely know John Morgan from billboards across Florida or from his commercials featuring the popular tagline "For The People."

It's rare that we know the names of the people who have shaped the way the Orlando area is now. For every Nils Schweizer and John Morgan, there's a million anonymous developers and purposely secretive business concerns. The benefactors of the Loch Haven museum lived an art-forward life even away from the galleries that bore their name and it shows in their Winter Park estate. The home is on the market for the first time in four decades, following Michael Mennello's death last year. It's notably next door to the home of Matt Morgan, who purchased his Winter Park estate earlier this year.

The wife of a crash victim is putting pressure on a Central Florida transportation company after he was killed in January.

The family of a man shot and killed by police at a Winter Park wedding will be represented by Morgan & Morgan, according to the law firm.

The best cheap seafood restaurants in OrlandoMachine Girl, Johnnascus and Human presented a night of bleeding-edge heaviness at the AbbeyCelebrate 21 years of the ‘I-4 eyesore’ with some of our favorite jokes, memesFlorida Gov. Ron DeSantis gets roasted alive for idiotic ‘think about it’ tweetMaitland’s Lil 500 Go-Karts was a good time up to its last dayJohn Morgan’s son bought the most expensive mansion in Winter Park

Payton Thorne’s 22-yard touchdown pass to Jayden Reed gave No. 11 Michigan State the lead with less than three minutes remaining and the Spartans overcame an 11-point deficit to beat No. 13 Pittsburgh 31-21 on Thursday night in the Peach Bowl.

Several wealthy donors have signaled they are done fundraising for and contributing to the Democratic National Committee.

Minimum wage workers across the state of Florida are set to get a pay hike on Thursday.

Morgan & Morgan Morgan & Morgan, America’s largest plaintiffs’ law firm, has announced the launch of its $100,000 Battle of the Jingles contest to help create the firm’s first-ever jingle that’s catchy, unforgettable and pairs well with fighting for justice. (Morgan & Morgan/Morgan & Morgan)Do you have a made-up jingle or a catchy tune stuck in your head? Morgan & Morgan, America’s largest plaintiffs’ law firm, has announced the launch of its $100,000 Battle of the Jingles contest to help create the firm’s first-ever jingle that’s catchy, unforgettable and pairs well with fighting for justice. READ: Disney World announces new Genie service, includes Lightning Lane for attractions“After 30 years in business, we are in search of a unique and catchy jingle that embodies our dedication to justice. #MorganJingleContest pic.twitter.com/svwStaSwUz — Morgan & Morgan (@forthepeople) August 18, 2021READ: 10-7: Dispatcher reads ‘last call’ for fallen Daytona Beach police officer Jason RaynorProfessional musicians and songwriters are not eligible to participate.

Voters approved both measures.Glenn Burhans, an attorney who has worked on numerous ballot initiatives, told The News Service of Florida that the proposed contribution caps would "kill the citizens' initiative process in the cradle. "“There’s simply no way that anybody can raise the types of funds necessary to mount a multimillion-dollar signature-gathering campaign,” Burhans said. “Our concern is that you continue to allow a way for the citizens of Florida to voice their concerns … when the legislators seem to be completely out of touch with us.”The Republican-controlled House committee approved both measures in party-line votes. Roth’s measure would have to be approved by voters in 2022 because it would involve changing the Constitution. That is not what these ballot initiatives are,” Jenne, D-Dania Beach, said.

click to enlarge Screenshot via John Morgan/TwitterThe @OrlandoMagic are the worst team in all of sports. They make money because tourists pay to see other teams kick the shit out of the Magic. https://t.co/YchuKNkx5v — John Morgan (@JohnMorganESQ) March 24, 2021Look at who the Magic have lost over the years. So much for "the buck stops here” https://t.co/Vdqf7IubX7 — John Morgan (@JohnMorganESQ) March 25, 2021Anyone will eyes can see the Orlando Magic are uniquely terrible and they've been that way for quite a while. He said that the Magic has losing baked into the way it is run, noting that good teams build around their stars.

Currently, about 2,500 of the state’s roughly 90,000 physicians have undergone the requisite training allowing them to order medical marijuana for qualified patients. While Republicans control both legislative chambers as well as the governor’s office, the Florida Senate has put the brakes on proposed THC limits the past two years. It’s unclear where DeSantis, whose approval would be required if lawmakers approve THC limits during the 60-day session, stands on the issue. Medical marijuana operators and industry advocates are decrying the proposed THC limits. Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried, a former medical-marijuana lobbyist, called the proposed caps “outrageous” in an email to supporters.

Many Republican lawmakers in Florida haven’t hidden their skepticism about the use of marijuana as a medical palliative. While Republicans control both legislative chambers as well as the governor’s office, the Florida Senate has put the brakes on proposed THC limits the past two years. It’s unclear where DeSantis, whose approval would be required if lawmakers approve THC limits during the 60-day session, stands on the issue. Medical marijuana operators and industry advocates are decrying the proposed THC limits. Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried, a former medical-marijuana lobbyist, called the proposed caps “outrageous” in an email to supporters.

CELEBRATION, Fla. – The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office has identified the man accused of shooting a pregnant woman multiple times in the chest at a hospital in Celebration Thursday. On Friday, deputies said Damion Sasenarine Mohammed, of Kissimmee, was arrested Thursday in a parking lot about 7 miles from AdventHealth Celebration, the scene of the shooting. The witness tried to intervene but deputies said Mohammed pointed a gun at the witness, so she ran away shortly before shots were fired. Records show that man tried to help the victim but Mohammed fired a shot at him, although he wasn’t injured. The sheriff said that after the shooting, Mohammed left in a black Toyota Yaris.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Hospital officials said the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t affecting AdventHealth’s transplant program. She recalled what life was like before her heart transplant. “He said, ‘Well you probably have about 2 to 5 years with your heart,’” Nissel said. AdventHealth transplant cardiologist Dr. Stacy Mandras said that prevented her from getting the transplant. Ad“I would say from a transplant standpoint, a heart transplant standpoint, I don’t believe that COVID really affected the work that they’re doing all that much,” Mandras said.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Orange County Public Schools officials have announced graduation dates for the class of 2021. Timber Creek High School, May 26 at 2 p.m.University High School, May 26 at 7:30 p.m.Evans High School, May 27 at 8:30 a.m.Jones High School, May 27 at 2 p.m.Ocoee High School, May 27 at 7:30 p.m.Orange Technical College, June 2 at 8:30 a.m.District officials said the schedule is based on the availability of the arena during NBA playoffs or Solar Bears hockey games. In the event the Amway Center is unable to host any of the ceremonies on the above dates, alternative locations will be determined, the county said. Superintendent Barbara Jenkins spoke about these preliminary plans during her Community Update video, which was released Friday. All guidelines and protocols are being made in conjunction with the Florida Department of Health in Orange County and the Amway Center.

ORLANDO, Fla. – While he may take no prisoners in the courtroom, high-profile Orlando attorney and Florida’s so-called “pot daddy” John Morgan is making amends -- with Arby’s. #JohnIn60secs: Arby's The thing about Arby's that I don't understand is how does it stay in business?!? There are certain places that I worry about how they stay in business... Who goes to Bojangles? #JohnIn60secs Posted by John Morgan on Monday, February 1, 2021In the Arby’s video, Morgan said he was concerned for the restaurant. Morgan changed his tune in his most recent video, posted Wednesday.

@Arbys, I apologize! Your food is delicious!! Thank you for the meat sweatsuit! And Mr. Brown, I know you're the @InspireBrands CEO, there's no #Arbys in Maui. (Arby's corporate account later replied with a plaintive, "Why the hate?

Always a colorful guest and not one to hold back, Morgan said once he decided to tackle the issue, he first looked at his own staff at Morgan & Morgan, where he employs some 4,000 people. Looking back at his support for Gillum, Morgan said, “I made a gigantic mistake because I didn’t know who he was. He said when he confronted Gillum about the money, Gillum told him he wasn’t allowed to use it. If you want to hear more from Morgan, download this week’s edition of Florida’s Fourth Estate. Listen to the full episode of Florida’s Fourth Estate on iTunes here or on Sticher here.

click to enlarge Screenshot via John Morgan/TwitterOrlando attorney John Morgan won’t fund more constitutional amendments. “They know that the things that are important to me are food, water, medicine, shelter and dignity. And that my children will take that foundation and try to do what me, their mother would want done. "So, it's weird getting old, but it's also almost like you finished the race and you won. So, mixed bag.”

ORLANDO, Fla. – Florida’s minimum wage is about to go up, after voters approved Amendment 2, which outlines a plan for the state’s minimum wage to reach $15 per hour by 2026. Here’s what the minimum wage increase would look like each year, according to Ballotpedia. $10 on Sept. 30, 2021$11 on Sept. 30, 2022$12 on Sept. 30, 2023$13 on Sept. 30, 2024$14 on Sept. 30, 2025$15 on Sept. 30, 2026Beginning on Sept. 30, 2027, the state’s plan would be to have an annual adjustment to the state minimum wage based on increases to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers. The five-year study began at the request of the city of Seattle after it voted to raise minimum wage in 2014. Florida Amendment 5 was approved and provided for a $6.15 per hour minimum wage set to increase each year based on changes in the CPI-W or inflation.

Florida voters on Tuesday approved gradually boosting the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour, while narrowly rejecting a proposal that would have overhauled the state’s primary-election system. Currently, the minimum wage is $8.56. Florida is the seventh state to adopt a $15 minimum wage, and supporters said it is needed to improve the standard of living of many workers. I can save more,” she said of the higher minimum wage. Several states have enacted increases of the minimum wage to $12.

Amendment 2 outlines the state’s $15 minimum wage initiative, which plans to increase the minimum pay-per-hour rate incrementally through 2026. Here’s what the minimum wage increase would look like each year, according to Ballotpedia. Each September 30th thereafter, minimum wage shall increase by $1.00 per hour until the minimum wage reaches $15.00 per hour on September 30th, 2026. A vote no rejects the initiative to increase the state’s minimum wage and thereby agrees to keep the current minimum wage of $8.46 per hour. [THE WEEKLY: Orlando attorney Matt Morgan pushes for raising minimum wage in 2020]Proponents of the initiative say Florida’s current minimum wage isn’t livable nor does it align with the cost of living in the state.

[LIVE RACE RESULTS: Scroll to bottom of story to see all race returns starting at 7 p.m. on Nov. 3]Amendment 2 outlines the state’s $15 minimum wage initiative, which plans to increase the minimum pay-per-hour rate incrementally through 2026. Here’s what the minimum wage increase would look like each year, according to Ballotpedia. Each September 30th thereafter, minimum wage shall increase by $1.00 per hour until the minimum wage reaches $15.00 per hour on September 30th, 2026. A vote no rejects the initiative to increase the state’s minimum wage and thereby agrees to keep the current minimum wage of $8.46 per hour. [THE WEEKLY: Orlando attorney Matt Morgan pushes for raising minimum wage in 2020]Proponents of the initiative say Florida’s current minimum wage isn’t livable nor does it align with the cost of living in the state.

The minimum wage will then increase in $1 increments each year until it reaches $15 by 2026.An estimated 2.5 million workers – a quarter of Florida’s workforce – will see this pay increase in the next five years. Nationally, organizations like Patriotic Millionaires and the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) also recommended Florida voters vote "Yes" on Amendment 2.Florida was the only state with a $15 minimum wage boost on the ballot this year. Seven additional states – including New Jersey, New York and California – are on track to reach a $15 minimum wage within the next five years, as are dozens of cities across the country.Last year, the Democratic-controlled U.S. House also introduced and passed federal legislation dubbed the Raise the Wage Act to enact a $15 minimum wage nationwide. Bernie Sanders, a self-described democratic socialist and longtime labor advocate, also supports a federal wage boost. This money — which presumably could have otherwise gone into the pockets of workers and business owners — was wasted.

Voting yes on Amendment 2 to boost Florida’s minimum wage will either give 2.5 million workers a pay raise or result in 158,000 jobs disappearing over the next few years. Supporters need to win approval from 60 percent of voters to increase the minimum wage, a proposal spearheaded by prominent Orlando attorney John Morgan. What I mean by that is that Democrats tend to favor increases in the minimum wage at higher rates than Republicans,” Wagner said. Florida TaxWatch and the Florida Chamber of Commerce are among groups that have released studies highly critical of the amendment. Susan MacManus, a University of South Florida’ distinguished professor emerita of political analysis, isn’t impressed with the polling numbers.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Come November, Amendment 2 will be on the ballots, giving voters the chance to decide whether or not to increase the state minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2026. “It’s not true, because if it was true, those people would be fired already; he needs those people,” Morgan said. Morgan led the push to get Amendment 2 on the ballot and said the raise would be gradual, and that it wouldn’t hit $15 until 2026. “I didn’t want to surprise business owners, and go ‘Hey, we’re going from $8.57 to $15,’” Morgan said. University of Central Florida historian Jim Clark said this ballot measure is significant for a couple hundred thousand Floridians working at minimum wage.

Two state Republican leaders added their voices Monday in opposition to a proposed constitutional amendment that would gradually boost the minimum wage to $15 an hour in Florida. Gruters, a certified public accountant, contended the state’s current minimum wage is primarily for entry level positions and that the ballot measure would destroy hundreds of small businesses across Florida. If approved, the proposal, known as Amendment 2, would increase the state’s minimum wage — currently $8.56 an hour — to $10 on Sept. 30, 2021, and incrementally increase the rate each year until reaching $15 on Sept. 30, 2026. That’s how bad it is.”Florida voters in 2004 passed a ballot measure that has led to smaller increases in the state’s minimum wage. “The dangers of enshrining a $15 minimum wage in our state’s Constitution cannot be overstated,” Gregory said in a prepared statement last week.

They just have them bagging groceries out of the goodness of their heart. and Morgan and Morgan P.A. have contributed heavily to the political committee, which has spent $4.69 million since the start of 2019. That's how bad it is.”Florida voters in 2004 passed a ballot measure that has led to smaller increases in the state’s minimum wage. Rep. Tommy Gregory, R-Sarasota, this month started the political committee Coalition for More Jobs & Better Pay as a way to warn against the ballot initiative.“The dangers of enshrining a $15 minimum wage in our state’s Constitution cannot be overstated,” Gregory said in a prepared statement last week.

The death of George Floyd, who was killed while in police custody, has sparked a national conversation on race and what it means to be black in America. Ginger and Matt speak with a psychotherapist Dr. Annette Nunez about how to talk to your kids about race and when that conversation should or should not happen. Floridas Fourth Estate looks at everything from swampy politics to a fragile environment and even the crazy headlines that make Florida the craziest state in the Union. Big influencers like Attorney John Morgan, renowned Florida journalists and the scientists protecting Floridas ecosystem can often be found as guests. Look for new episodes every week, and visit ClickOrlando.com for the latest WKMG News 6 coverage of Orlando and beyond.

This week on “Florida’s Fourth Estate,” News 6 anchors Matt Austin and Ginger Gadsden talk to the WKMG-TV General Manager Jeff Hoffman about what it’s like running a news station during a pandemic with hurricane season looming. What's it like running a TV station during a pandemic? What's it like running a TV station during a pandemic? In This Week's Florida's Fourth Estate Ginger and Matt interview Jeff Hoffman about managing a local TV station during crisis. Big influencers like Attorney John Morgan, renowned Florida journalists and the scientists protecting Florida’s ecosystem can often be found as guests.

- LINK We've seen him move mountains in the past. Can John Morgan really sue Florida over it's lousy unemployment system? - LINK Something has to be done about the state's muddled unemployment system. Not only is it the worst in the nation, now it appears some of it's data has been stolen. - LINK Living through this pandemic has been tough for everyone, but can you imagine being pregnant through all of this?

click to enlarge Screenshot via John Morgan/FacebookAttorney John Morgan on May 5Orlando attorney John Morgan recently offered to file a lawsuit on behalf of the state of Florida, seeking damages to the state and its residents caused by Florida's notoriously unworkable unemployment website. According to the Florida Statutes, Morgan can in fact sue on behalf of the state. We've reached out to Morgan for comment.So if Morgan were allowed to sue, who or what would he target? ""This is the perfect pro bono case for Morgan & Morgan," he told First Coast News on May 7. Scott has yet to comment on the Florida unemployment system that current Gov.

Ever wonder the kinds of voicemails, messages and emails News 6 anchors receive? This week anchors Ginger Gadsden and Matt Austin give us a delicious taste of the dreaded compliment sandwich. Florida’s Fourth Estate looks at everything from swampy politics to a fragile environment and even the crazy headlines that make Florida the craziest state in the Union. Ginger Gadsden and Matt Austin use decades of experience as journalists to dissect the headlines that impact Florida. Big influencers like Attorney John Morgan, renowned Florida journalists and the scientists protecting Florida’s ecosystem can often be found as guests.

click to enlarge Photo via Rick Scott/FacebookA Leon County circuit judge Wednesday dismissed a lawsuit seeking to force the state to process and pay unemployment claims that have been delayed amid a crush of people losing jobs because of the coronavirus pandemic.The potential class-action lawsuit was filed last month as the states CONNECT unemployment system faced massive problems. Of the unique claims, nearly 770,000 had been processed as of Tuesday. Rick Scott.We've now launched an investigation about how this was acquired and all the money spent, DeSantis said Wednesday while in Miami. If somebody put an air-conditioning system in and it didn't work, what would you do? What would you do?Morgan added that DeSantis is doing one hell of a job. DeSantis office didnt immediately reply to a request for comment.

A judge granted a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed against Florida and its unemployment benefit system operators Wednesday. The lawsuit was filed by attorneys representing Floridians who are waiting for unemployment payments due to the coronavirus fallout. Circuit Court Judge Angela Dempsey listened to attorneys for Florida defend the steps the state has taken to get the flawed CONNECT system working and processing payments and applications. DeSantis has previously called the CONNECT system a “clunker” and said it wasn’t designed to withstand even a small surge. Morgan said he wouldn’t charge the state anything for his firm’s work, and any money from the lawsuit should go to the unemployed.

TALLAHASSEE A Leon County circuit judge Wednesday dismissed a lawsuit seeking to force the state to process and pay unemployment claims that have been delayed amid a crush of people losing jobs because of the coronavirus pandemic. The potential class-action lawsuit was filed last month as the states CONNECT unemployment system faced massive problems. From March 15 to Tuesday, the state system received more than 1.8 million unemployment claims, of which more than 1.1 million were considered unique, with the difference due to duplicates or incomplete paperwork. Of the unique claims, nearly 770,000 had been processed as of Tuesday. During the hearing, attorneys for unemployed people pleaded with Dempsey to issue an order directing the state to get the claims resolved.

Supporters cheer as Democratic presidential hopeful former Vice President Joe Biden arrives to speak at a rally in Conway, South Carolina, on February 27, 2020. Joe Biden won South Carolina's primary, and he is about to score some new donors as a result. Bundlers backing the former vice president's campaign told CNBC that they are seeing a surge in big money commitments in the wake of Saturday's apparent blowout victory in the Palmetto State. Biden's dominant victory in South Carolina will give him enough delegates to at least be in second place behind Sanders. The Biden campaign itself appeared to confirm what bundlers were already seeing in the wake of the South Carolina triumph.

Ron DeSantis took office, he held a news conference in Central Florida that removed any doubt the Rick Scott era was over. Republican Jeb Bush completely changed state government after he was elected in 1998 to succeed Democrat Lawton Chiles. In 2019, however, the change brought by DeSantis was the most important story in state government and politics. While that might temporarily slow the changes at the Supreme Court, DeSantis has left no doubt that he will replace Lagoa and Luck with like-minded conservatives. Montalto spoke after the Senate voted 25-15 in October to strip former Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel of his post.

Ron DeSantis took office, he held a news conference in Central Florida that removed any doubt the Rick Scott era was over. DeSantis during his first weeks in office was able to appoint three justices --- Barbara Lagoa, Robert Luck and Carlos Muniz --- to the Florida Supreme Court. While that might temporarily slow the changes at the Supreme Court, DeSantis has left no doubt that he will replace Lagoa and Luck with like-minded conservatives. The amendment, known as Amendment 4, came after years of political and legal battles about whether the state was unfairly disenfranchising felons who had done their time. Florida Democratic Party Executive Director Juan Penalosa said in an interview with The News Service of Florida this month that the party has had heartbreaking losses in recent years, but it has a strategy to win races in 2020.

It will appear on the ballot as Amendment 2.The proposed amendment clearly addresses only one subject, raising the minimum wage, and it does not substantially alter or perform the functions of multiple branches of government, the opinion said. But just like voters overwhelmingly voted in favor of medical marijuana in 2016, Im confident that we will do the same in 2020. This ballot measure will actually hurt the very people its proponent claims it will help. In fact, Florida could very likely lose nearly half a million jobs by 2026, and weve seen estimates that are higher than that. Those proposals include issues such as revamping the states primary-election system and deregulating the electric-utility industry.

The minimum wage is $8.46 this year.Meanwhile, the political committee All Voters Vote was at 751,596 valid signatures Wednesday, 14,604 short of the requirement, for its proposal to revamp the primary system. Under the proposal, registered voters would be able to cast ballots in primaries regardless of political affiliation. The two candidates getting the most votes in each primary would advance to the general election.Florida currently has a closed primary system, which limits primaries to voters registered with parties. Attorney General Ashley Moody and the state Republican and Democratic parties want the Supreme Court to block the All Voters Vote amendment, contending the proposed ballot wording wouldnt adequately explain the ramifications of the measure. The Supreme Court has scheduled a Dec. 3 hearing.Political committees face a February deadline for submitting enough signatures to get on the ballot.

Ron DeSantis on Monday questioned a proposal to increase Florida's minimum wage through the constitutional amendment process, warning about effects on the restaurant industry. "If you're going to amend the Constitution it should be provisions similar to what we've seen with the federal Constitution," DeSantis said. Orlando attorney John Morgan, who chairs and has largely bankrolled the political committee Florida For A Fair Wage, strongly disagreed with DeSantis' assessment of the process. "He (DeSantis) has a chance to have a fair minimum wage enacted in the next session. The state's minimum wage this year is $8.46 an hour, with tipped employees at $5.44 an hour.

John Morgans pitch is simple: Floridas minimum wage for 40 hours a week totals just $338. If a full-time worker cant survive on the minimum wage, he argues, the level needs to be increased. I just keep writing checks.The national debate about the minimum wage takes place against a confusing economic backdrop. A worker collecting Floridas minimum wage for 40 hours a week grosses just $338. While progressives have seized on the minimum wage, Morgan attempts to reframe the issue.

John Morgans pitch is simple: Floridas minimum wage for 40 hours a week totals just $338. After that, the minimum wage would be subject to annual cost of living increases. If a full-time worker cant survive on the minimum wage, he argues, the level needs to be increased. A worker collecting Floridas minimum wage for 40 hours a week grosses just $338. While progressives have seized on the minimum wage, Morgan attempts to reframe the issue.

click to enlarge Photo via FRLAFlorida Restaurant and Lodging Association President Carol Dover was paid $620,986 in 2017click to enlarge Screenshot of IRS form 990/Propublicaclick to enlarge Screenshot of IRS form 990/PropublicaOn Monday, we told you how the president of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, Carol Dover, decried the words of attorney John Morgan, who compared Florida's minimum wage to "slave wages. "While millionaire Morgan is no pauper, it's important to note that Dover, whose response diverted attention with empty words about slavery and human trafficking, herself is paid more than $620,000 a year for her job. That's more than 35 times what someone earning minimum wage earns with a 40-hour workweek.As's Scott Maxwell reports every year , Central Florida's hotels and restaurants are the central reason Orlando consistently has the lowest median income of all major metros in the U.S.Restaurant employees, at the behest of organizations like Dover's and lobbyists for hotel and service industries, pay servers as little as $5.44 per hour, not the $8.46 minimum other employers pay, because restaurants are allowed to let servers' tips make up the remaining $3.02 an hour.While tips are an unstable source of income that only serve to keep menu prices low for restaurant owners, working as a lobbyist to suppress restaurant employees' pay, however, is one of the best ways to get rich in Florida.

click to enlarge Photo by Joey RouletteThe Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association president is "deeply offended" by comments made by Orlando attorney and political advocate John Morgan, who referred to the state's minimum hourly pay rate as "slave wages. "In a statement Monday from the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, CEO and president Carol Dover expressed anger at Morgan's words.Mr. Morgan has made his position on minimum wage clear by leading the charge to get a constitutional amendment on the ballot next November. Drawing comparisons between their plight and those who work for minimum wage is disgusting, cold-hearted and insulting to both groups. "Dover made no mention of the condition of workers who serve restaurant diners and clean hotels rooms in Florida, who are often paid the lowest wages, to the point of lowering wages overall in the area.

click to enlargeA constitutional amendment that would increase Florida's minimum wage has submitted more than 700,000 petition signatures to the state of Florida.Florida For A Fair Wage, an initiative chaired and bankrolled by Orlando-based attorney John Morgan, has submitted 705,920 valid signatures as of Wednesday. Also, the Florida Supreme Court must sign of the on the proposed ballots' wording, in order for the amendment to be approved. The state's current minimum wage is set at $8.46 an hour.Central Florida residents working minimum wage are already facing an uphill battle in affording basic housing.Meanwhile, the political committee known as All Voters Vote has tallied 664, 983 petition signatures to update the primary-election system in the state of Florida. Currently, Florida uses a "closed" primary system that only allows voters registered under certain parties to participate in those party's primaries. The proposed amendment would allow all registered voters to cast ballots in the primaries regardless of political affiliation.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Now through Saturday, the annual Sunburst Convention and Showcase of Celebrity Impersonators will be in full swing at the Florida Hotel & Conference Center in Orlando. About 75 impersonators will be in the City Beautiful to bring some fun and laughs to Central Florida during the convention's 17th edition. "We bring together the best professional celebrity tribute artists, impersonators and lookalikes from around the world here to Orlando and we have performance showcases that are open to the public," Ilene Lieber, publicist for Sunburst, said. Attendees will have a chance to take pictures with a President Donald Trump lookalike, impersonated by John Morgan, from Orlando. The convention is Friday and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Florida Hotel and Conference Center located next to the Florida Mall in Orlando.

click to enlarge Photo via John Morgan/TwitterAnannouncement. Orlando attorney and self-proclaimed "Pot Daddy" John Morgan continues to put his money behind a proposed constitutional amendment that would gradually raise Floridas minimum wage to $15 an hour.The Morgan Firm P.A. contributed nearly $1.075 million last month to the political committee Florida For A Fair Wage, which is trying to get the amendment on the November 2020 ballot, according to a newly filed finance report.The Morgan Firm P.A. and Morgan & Morgan P.A. Florida For A Fair Wage spent nearly $947,000 in July, with virtually all of the money going to petition-related expenses.

Good morning,Were you unable to catch a few newscasts last week or didn't see what's trending on ClickOrlando.com? Below is a list of big stories as well as a recap of this week's interview on "The Weekly." Safety, mental health take center stage for new school yearWhile students and teachers spent some summer days relaxing and being away from school, district leaders were making some changes ahead of the 2019-2020 school year. The tragedy is spotlighting the dangers of washers, dryers or any household appliance where it's easy for a child to climb into. Click here to see see what one Florida woman said caused her toilet to explode.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Orlando attorney and advocate John Morgan announced Tuesday that he's going to pursue legalizing recreational marijuana in Florida, more than two years after successfully backing an initaitve to legalize medical cannabis in the Sunshine State. "I have decided that I am too old to care," Morgan said in a tweet. However, Florida medical marijuana card holders could only purchase smokable medical marijuana starting this year, after the Florida Legislature repealed a ban put in place by former Gov. [READ: 5 things you need to know about the smokable medical marijuana law]Morgan is currently working to increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour with a 2020 ballot initiative. #ForThePeople- #PotDaddy John Morgan (@JohnMorganESQ) August 6, 2019"I think we have time and I think there is money to get it done," Morgan said Tuesday of legalizing marijuana.

Will recreational marijuana become legalized in Florida? An Orlando attorney who previously pushed the states legalization of medical marijuana has his eyes set on a new measure -- legalizing recreational marijuana in Florida. John Morgan tweeted his support on Tuesday behind a campaign to legalize recreational marijuana in Florida, WESH2 reported. He also backed a minimum wage increase to $15 in Florida. Morgan has a collection of signatures -- enough to get a minimum wage increase on the ballot in 2020 -- he claimed at a news conference in January.

Sean Gallup/Getty ImagesI don't know your thoughts on the idea, but Orlando-based attorney John Morgan has made it clear he wants recreational marijuana in Florida to be legal. Here's what's trending on ClickOrlando.com: Recreational marijuana? Florida's self-proclaimed "Pot Daddy" shared the news on Twitter that he plans to pursue legalizing recreational marijuana, saying, "I have decided that I am too old to care." Share your thoughts on Morgan's announcement and whether you're in favor of legalizing recreational marijuana. Unsettled weatherSpeaking of lightning, the weather still isn't looking its best Tuesday, with an unsettled weather pattern bringing the chance for more storms.

Last week Floridas most famous barrister announced that voters should have an opportunity to decide whether to jack up the states minimum wage to $15 an hour. Morgan describes his plan as business friendly. If adopted, it would immediately raise the state minimum wage now $8.46 an hour, or $1.21 an hour more than the federal minimum wage to $10. The Herald cited an estimate that indicated 200,000 workers were paid at or below the states minimum wage. In other words they are already at least $1.50 above the minimum wage. Out in Seattle, the first major city to adopt a $15 minimum wage, people with jobs made out but new hires suffered.

click to enlarge Photo via Orlando City SC/TwitterChurch Street is ready for the big game. If your first, middle or last name is Morgan and you like soccer, it is your lucky day.Thanks to Captain Morgan , an official partner of Major League Soccer (MLS) and 2019 All-Star Game Sponsor, 10 "Morgans" will have the opportunity to score free tickets for them and two other guests (21 or over) to the match between MLS All-Stars and Atltico Madridon on Wednesday, July 31, at the Orlando City Stadium. "Right from the start of our partnership, Captain Morgan has demonstrated their belief in Major League Soccer and their commitment to creating fun and unique activations for our fans," said Jennifer Cramer, Senior Vice President of Partnership Marketing at MLS. "We are really excited to collaborate with them on this one-of-a-kind program that will enhance the fan experience at our All-Star Game. For more information on the Morgan tickets click here, otherwise click here for normal ticket prices.

Photo by Joey RouletteThere are hundreds of thousands of Floridians earning minimum wage that cannot afford to live in FL. We must fight so all Floridians can have the dignity of earning a fair wage for a hard day's work. !#WorkWithDignity #RaiseTheWage John Morgan (@JohnMorganESQ) July 22, 2019A $15 minimum wage campaign in Florida is now officially in the works.Florida for a Fair Wage, the long-time passion project of Orlando attorney John Morgan, was formally launched Monday with a press release.There is no doubt in my mind that is an uphill battle. But just like there were hundreds of thousands of families with sick children or parents that needed medical marijuana, there are hundreds of thousands of Floridians earning the minimum wage that cannot afford to live in Florida, Morgan said in an email to supporters. To get the amendment on the 2020 ballot, the campaign will need 766,200 verified petitions, according to the release.Florida for a Fair Wage announced that more that 1 million petitions have been collected, but according to the Division of Elections, around 363,000 petitions have so far been verified.

Andrew Gillum (@AndrewGillum) July 14, 2019John Morgan is "For the People." Unless that person is Florida gubernatorial runner-up Andrew Gillum.The two engaged in a Twitter spat over the weekend surrounding Gillum's use of campaign funds. Gillum transferred some $500,000 in campaign funds to his nonprofit, Forward Florida Action. "Gillum fired back on Twitter by calling Morgan a "Trump impersonator" and "DeSantis suck up" who only cares about "transactions and distractions. "Morgan, who donated $2 million to Gillum's campaign, fired off a series of outraged tweets this May after learning Gillum didn't use $3.5 million in campaign funds to beat DeSantis.

Courtney Irby spent six days in jail on charges of armed burglary and grand theft after she brought the guns from her husband's apartment to the Lakeland police. Joseph Irby was spending one day in jail at the time, accused of trying to run her over. Polk County State Attorney Brian Haas announced Tuesday his decisions regarding the charges against both Joseph and Courtney Irby. In a 911 call, Courtney Irby said Joseph Irby "tapped" her car with his vehicle. High-profile Orlando attorney John Morgan posted on his Facebook page that he would represent Courtney Irby for free.

Police said Irby went to the station to give officers her husband's guns, which she had taken from his apartment. Officers said Courtney Irby was hysterically crying when they interviewed her and she was in fear for her life. On Friday, when Courtney Irby went to turn in her estranged husband's firearms she was arrested. "Domestic violence, when it's happening in the home, it's going to escalate when there are firearms involved," Sperzel said. Orlando attorney John Morgan posted on his Facebook page that he would represent Courtney Irby for free.