🌱 Covid Omicron Variant In Tampa + Debate Over Teacher Contracts

Happy Friday, Dunedin! Here's everything you need to know to get this day started.

First, today's weather:

Beautiful with sunshine. High: 78 Low: 68.

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Here are the top stories in Dunedin today:

1. Florida's first case of the new omicron variant of the coronavirus has been confirmed at the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital in Tampa. The patient recently returned from traveling internationally and has mild symptoms. The omicron variant has been found in over 20 states so far, with only one patient requiring hospitalization. (Dunedin Patch)
2. Contract talks between the Pinellas County school district and the teachers union are at a standstill. Representatives for the two sides debated over the issue of extra pay for longtime district educators who have not accepted an annual contract in exchange for performance pay benefits. The district’s offer to the teachers includes an average pay raise of 3.25 percent and fully paid insurance as long as teachers switch to an annual contract rather than ones that roll over from year to year. However, teachers fear administrators could use the leverage of nonrenewal as a threat to prevent their advocacy. (Tampa Bay Times)
3. This weekend is packed with family-friendly events in and around Dunedin. In addition to the Old Fashioned Christmas & Holiday Parade on Saturday, events include a holiday musical, several art gallery shows, live music, and more! (Dunedin Patch)
4. Looking to buy property in Dunedin? Some new homes and condos have hit the market and are ready to be snatched up by the lucky buyers! (Dunedin Patch)

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Today in Dunedin:

• Virtual Conversation With P.A. Kushner (1:00 PM)
• Studio 1212 Art Gallery Second Friday Wine & Cheese (5:30 PM)
• Pipe On The Pier (6:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The City of Dunedin reminds motorists to make sure people are clear of the crosswalk before driving through it. Nothing is more important than making sure everyone gets home safely. (Facebook)
• SPCA Tampa Bay received a donation of 800 pounds of pet food from the IOMC Dunedin Highland Hooligans. Each year the Dunedin Highland Hooligans do a charity ride and donate hundreds of pounds of pet food to the animal shelter. (Facebook)
• Dunedin High School congratulates Coach Gardiner who was selected as Pinellas County Offensive Coordinator of the Year for the 2021-2022 Season. This is the football coach's first year as Offensive Coordinator. (Facebook)
• The Dunedin Chamber of Commerce reminds locals that the Old Fashioned Christmas & Holiday Parade begins at 4:00 PM on Saturday, December 11. The parade will travel along Douglas Avenue from Beltrees Street heading north to Skinner Boulevard. (Facebook)
• The Rotary Club of Dunedin North received the Civic Organization Award after serving wine and beer at the Dunedin Wines the Blues festival and donating all of their tips to Dunedin Care’s Turkey Drive. (Facebook)

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You're all caught up for today. I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow with your next update!