🌱 Champion Tree + Dog's 500-Mile Jet Ski Journey + Reading Classes

Hello neighbors! It's Friday in Dunedin, and I'm back in your inbox with everything you need to know about what's happening in the community today. Today we'll cover these stories and more:

• The library's Books & Brews Adult Summer Reading Challenge.
• A Dunedin man and his dog will travel 500 miles by Jet Ski to help shelters.
• Hope Grove is offering intensive reading instruction classes with a literacy coach.

But first, today's weather: Humid; a p.m. t-storm or two. High: 89 Low: 81.

Here are the top 3 stories in Dunedin today:

1. A Sweetbay Magnolia in the Baygall forest community of Hammock Park has been labeled a "Champion Tree" by the Florida Forest Service, meaning it's the largest known tree of its species in the state of Florida. The tree was discovered by City Arborist Craig Wilson and former City of Dunedin Arborist Art Finn a few years ago while they were doing field research. After discovering the enormous Sweetbay Magnolia tree, Wilson worked hard to determine if this tree was record-setting and to have it recognized. (Dunedin Gov)
2. On July 9, a Dunedin man and his dog will set out on a 500-mile Jet Ski journey with hopes to raise $5 million for no-kill animal shelters and rescues around the country. Michael and his 4-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Ollie will be on their journey for four to six days due to anticipated weather delays. They will make 12 stops along the way for interviews, meet and greets, and rest. Ollie will be more than comfortable on the trip with access to plenty of water and treats. Additionally, the Jet Ski has an awning to provide shade and a nice soft bed for Ollie to lounge in. You can track their journey and make a donation here. (WTSP)
3. Hope Grove and LOBO Reading Co. introduce private and small group classes offering intensive reading instruction with a literacy coach. Reading Roots Learning Pod classes begin in mid-August and will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays for one hour between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. A free information session is scheduled on July 12 at 10 a.m. for those interested in learning more about the program and meeting the coach. (LOBO Reading Co. via Facebook)

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Dunedin Patch Pic of the Day:

Thank you, Darlene Scott, for sharing this photo taken at Wall Springs Park in Palm Harbor!

Want your photo to be included in the Dunedin Pic of the Day or Inspired by Dunedin section? Submit it to Dunedin@Patch.com for consideration! Please confirm in the email that you own the rights to the photo and that Patch has permission to republish it.

Today in Dunedin:

Friday, July 7

• Dunedin Writers Group at the Dunedin Library (9:30 a.m.)
• Summer Celebration Children's Day at the Chamber of Commerce (10 a.m.)
• BINGO at the Dunedin VFW Post 2550 (10:30 a.m.)
• Live music with Gracie at Stirling Wine (7 p.m.)
• Anniversary Celebration at Dunedin Brewery (7 p.m.)
• Live music with Drunken Shrubbery at Flanagan's Irish Pub (8 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• The Dunedin Public Library is holding a Books & Brews Adult Summer Reading Challenge for those 21 and older. To join, stop by the library before July 31 to get a card where you'll record your reading progress. Participants can earn prizes, including coupons to use at Cueni Brewing Co. (Dunedin Gov)
• The City of Dunedin shared that the Hale Senior Activity Center's fitness room now has new cardio and exercise equipment. Additions include treadmills, recumbent bikes, stretch bands, weights, and more! A fitness specialist will be demonstrating how to use the equipment on July 11 at 10:30 a.m. (City of Dunedin via Facebook)
• Wine At The Docks is hosting a Sippin’ & Spillin' event on July 27 at 6 p.m. Get your tickets now to enjoy an evening of wine while exploring beginner acrylic paint pouring techniques. (Wine At The Docks via Facebook)
• Check out Dunedin's Community Engagement Platform, where city officials share important information on the projects happening within our community. Learn details such as cost, goals, and timeline of each project. (Dunedin Gov)

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• Dunedin Orange Festival (July 8)
• Coastal Sip n' Roll Jolley Trolley Beer Adventure (July 8)
• Breast Ultrasound Screening Coming Direct to You! (July 10)
• Crossing Over with Psychic Medium John Edward Live! (July 28)
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You're officially in the loop for today! See you all tomorrow morning for another update.