🌱 History Teacher Fights For CRT + Possible Ferry Revival

Happy Thursday, neighbors! Let's get this day started off right. Here's what's going on today in town.


First, today's weather:

Mostly sunny and pleasant. High: 74 Low: 61.


Shoutout to our premier local sponsor:

Want a one-of-a-kind portrait of your doggie or know someone who would love this as a gift? Debbie Lewis is a talented watercolor artist based in Clearwater. She creates beautiful watercolor paintings of your furry friends from your photos. You can check out examples of her work or place an order here.

Want to see your business featured in this spot? Click here to apply.


Here are the top 3 stories in Dunedin today:

  1. Dunedin High School history teacher Brandt Robinson has been battling one of his student's parents over the inclusion of critical race theory in his curriculum. Renee Chiea questioned Robinson’s motives before the school board, accusing him of "playing word games." Chiea is quoted saying, “Call it CRT or whatever you want. It’s still Marxist indoctrination of our youth ... Focus on teaching children the objective truth and providing them the tools they need for life’s success.” Robinson seems to also want the objective truth taught in his class, saying “The only thing we can really do is stand up to it and demand that American history be taught in its entirety." (Tampa Bay Times - Subscription Required)

  2. Dunedin Parks & Rec is supporting Heart Health & National Wear Red Day on February 4 by offering free access to programs and specials throughout the day. Programs will be held at the Dunedin Community Center & Fitness Center and are designed to help promote healthy living for a healthy heart. Stop by to receive free admission to the fitness center and group exercise classes. Raffle tickets will also be sold for prizes and giveaways. (Press Release Desk)

  3. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority is considering bringing back the Clearwater Ferry which previously provided service between downtown Clearwater, Clearwater Beach, and Dunedin. PSTA CEO Brad Miller presented the concept to the board during a PSTA Planning Committee meeting in which the Clearwater Ferry service would resume under PSTA’s watch. Potentially, PSTA would be the central manager and act as the agency of all ferry operations within Pinellas County. If approved, the focus for 2022 would be to secure operating funds by forming interlocal agreements with Pinellas County, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Dunedin to fund ferry operations in 2023. (St Pete Catalyst)


From our sponsor:

Hey Dunedin, are you looking to buy a house, refinance or just explore your options? Check out the new Patch Mortgage Center for all your home financing needs!


Today in Dunedin:

  • Drop Off Your Trashy Treasures at the Dunedin Fine Art Center (10:00 AM)

  • Beach Clean Up at Honeymoon Island State Park Pet Beach (12:00 PM)

  • Separation/Divorce & Co-Parenting Seminar at Hope Grove (6:30 PM)

  • Haggis Winter MusicFest 2022 kicks off at the Scottish Cultural Center (7:30 PM)


From my notebook:

  • Households in Florida can order up to four free rapid antigen coronavirus tests with the launch of a federal government website to help ease a nationwide shortage of the tests. Residents only need to provide their names and addresses. No insurance or credit card is required. Shipping is free. (Patch| Covid Tests)

  • Enjoy live music by Taylor Fletcher at Mangos and Marley Cafe on Friday at 5:00 PM. Come listen to his soulful voice and grab a cold beer and some good food. Let’s laugh, dance, and fill this place with all those good vibes. (Facebook)


More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured businesses:

Events:

For sale:


Loving the Dunedin Daily? Here are all the ways you can get more involved:


Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Thursday off right. I'll be in your inbox tomorrow morning with your next update!

This article originally appeared on the Dunedin Patch