🌱 Philanthropist Earns Major Award + The Great Giftsby + Paint & Sip

Hi, everybody! I'm back in your inbox this morning with the most important things happening in Dunedin today. Today's issue includes updates on:

• Ghouls 'n Gals Night at The Rusty Lyon
• Local philanthropist earns recognition for her work
• Celebrating local businesses during Women-Owned Business Month

But first, today's weather:

Mostly sunny and pleasant. High: 83 Low: 70.

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Want to support local artists in Dunedin? Studio 1212 Art Gallery was voted the best small art gallery cooperative for 2022 by Tampa Bay Magazine. Managed by award-winning area artists, this non-profit gallery features original artwork and prints, and has a popular boutique of fine hand-crafted gift items. Stop by 234 Monroe Street, 11am - 3pm Wednesday to Sunday or visit studio1212.org to shop and to see exhibition schedules. Support local artists by becoming a Patron of Studio 1212 here.

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Here are the top 3 stories in Dunedin today:

1. Dunedin philanthropist Nisha Mandani who founded Our AIM Foundation was recently awarded the top honor by the International Water Association at this year’s Global Water Awards in Denmark. The charity provides aid to remote villages in areas of Africa and South Asia. Most often they provide things like free health care, water sources, and education. Mandani created the organization after a trip to Malawi. “When I saw a 3-year-old boy with a big bucket of water, we asked, 'Where are you going all by yourself? He said, ‘My mom is dying of malaria and I’m going to the closest puddle to get some water for us because I cannot walk the eight kilometers to get the clean drinking water.’" Since then, her organization has built more than 2,000 water and sanitation facilities around the world. (Bay News 9)
2. In honor of Women-Owned Business Month, the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce is recognizing some of the women-owned businesses in the community. Most people are familiar with The Great Giftsby located in downtown Dunedin off Main Street. Owned by Elena Marrero, the shop features unique items for adults and children, coastal decor, and pieces by local artists. Additionally, they sell jewelry made by Elena's dad out of sand and crushed sea glass! According to the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce, "Elena loves to sing and performs at various venues and events across Tampa Bay, including in front of her store every second Friday. You will surely hear her- “The Singing Shop Keeper” when you visit The Great Giftsby and you will definitely want to sing along or dance!" (Dunedin Chamber of Commerce via Facebook)
3. Caledonia Brewing is hosting Paint and Sip for Julia on Oct. 26 between 6 and 8 p.m. Sign up to learn how to paint colorful tulips with instructor Bree and participate in raffles. Tickets are $40, $15 of which will be donated to help Julia who just adopted two foster children ages one and two! Click the link to reserve your spot and call Bree at 863-206-4168 with any questions. (Dunedin Patch)

Dunedin Daily Pic of the Day:

Don't forget to send me some of your Halloween photos! Submit them 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:

• Pancake Breakfast at the Hale Senior Activity Center (8:30 a.m.)
• HOB Beer Dinner at Clear Sky Draught Haus (6:30 p.m.)
• Dunedin Toastmasters meeting at Unity Community Church (7 p.m.)
• Contemporary Book Discussion Group at the Dunedin Public Library (7 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Over the weekend, Casa Tina celebrated its 30th Annual Dia de los Muertos at Pioneer Park. Check out some photos posted by the City of Dunedin of the community enjoying costume contests, traditional music, dancing, and more! (City of Dunedin via Facebook)
• Meet Bane, a friendly eight-year-old dog waiting for his forever family. Bane spends his days at the shelter collecting toys, exploring on walks, and snacking on his favorite treats. If you're looking to adopt, make sure to stop by the SPCA shelter and meet Bane and all of his friends! (SPCA Tampa Bay via Facebook)
• Dunedin High School's football team had a big win on Friday! It was the first win against Tarpon Springs since 2008! (Dunedin High School via Facebook)
• Heading downtown this weekend for some Halloween fun in Dunedin? Consider taking the Tiki bus, especially if you'll be hitting up the bars! Tiki Tours offers a door-to-door shuttle service connecting Dunedin residents and visitors to local businesses. Simply call 727-992-4174 for pick-up. Don't forget, they're both kid-friendly and pet-friendly so the whole family can enjoy a ride. (Dunedin Patch)
• The Rusty Lyon is hosting Ghouls 'n Gals Night on Friday, Oct. 28 that includes a costume contest, cash prizes, free swag, giveaways, and more! Ladies drink free between 9 p.m. and midnight! (The Rusty Lyon via Facebook)

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• The Apple Truck is coming to Tampa, Oct. 30th (12:30-2:00 PM) (October 30)
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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Tuesday. I'll see you soon!