The unique perspective and provocative opinions of Joe O’Neill
Tampa Bay
A proposed Florida constitutional amendment would limit the authority of government to close or restrict the sizes of gatherings at religious institutions. It’s part of the pushback from pandemic protocols regarding public health. What would Jesus say?
While the (“health and family concerns”) details of USF President Steve Currall’s abrupt resignation are not yet clear, this much should be certain regardless of spin. He probably won’t be available for testimonials. That said, USF’s search should prioritize an academician with political instincts and an innate understanding of the synergistic and catalytic role of a major research university in a major metropolitan area. The next president also needs a candid grasp of USF reality—from campus consolidation to equity concerns to budget priorities.
GRIT: That’s the Hillsborough County Sheriff Office’s Gunfire Response Investigations Team acronym. GRIT wants the public’s assistance in curbing shootings.
Congrats to Pinellas County fifth-grade teacher Sarah Ann Pointer, who was named Florida’s “Teacher of the Year.” It’s also another reminder that when it comes to judging “Teacher of the Year” candidates, there should be separate awards for elementary and secondary teachers—given the difference in challenges and skill sets.