🌱 TD Ballpark Groundskeeper + Senior Fair + Art & Craft Festival

Hello, friends, and Happy Hanukkah to those who celebrate! It's Kristen, your host of the Dunedin Daily. Here are all the most important things to know about what's happening in the community today, including...

• Dunedin Mardigras dates announced
• TD Ballpark groundskeeper named the Groundskeeper of the Year
• Upcoming weekend-long Art & Craft Festival

But first, today's weather:

Heavy rain and a thunderstorm. High: 72 Low: 59.

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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. Congratulations to TD Ballpark groundskeeper Pat Skunda who has been named the Florida State League Groundskeeper of the Year! Pat was recognized with this award on Dec. 7 by Minor League Baseball. He has received this honor four times before as groundskeeper in the Gulf Coast League. According to TBN Weekly, "This award is given to the best graded field in the Florida State League voted on by coaches and staff from each team in the league." Pat and his staff earned high remarks from all of the teams who visited TD Ballpark during the 2022 season, leading to this special recognition. (TBN Weekly)
2. The City of Dunedin Parks & Recreation is hosting a Senior Awareness Fair on Jan. 27 between 9 a.m. and noon in the Hale Senior Activity Center. Over 50 local vendors will be in attendance providing information for older adults on topics such as retirement living, home care, medical equipment, beauty, nutrition, exercise, legal, and financial help. Stop by to get some important information from the community and enjoy a free lunch! (Dunedin Gov)
3. An Art & Craft Festival will be held downtown on Jan. 7 and Jan. 8 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. More than 150 of the nation’s most talented artists will be in attendance, showcasing their one-of-a-kind artwork. Guests will be able to stroll down Main Street while browsing a variety of fine art, such as sculptures, paintings, handmade jewelry, clothing, photography, ceramics, and more. (Dunedin Gov)

Dunedin Daily Pic of the Day:

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Today in Dunedin:

• Christmas Plant Pop Up at Caledonia Brewing (5 p.m.)
• Christmas Movie Night at Sandbar Grill (6 p.m.)
• Dunedin Toastmasters meeting at Unity Community Church (7 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Did you know the Dunedin/Clearwater Elks Lodge 1525 on Christopher Drive offers bingo for the public every Sunday evening? Early-bird bingo starts at 5:30 p.m., while regular bingo starts at 6 p.m. Feel free to bring some snacks! (Dunedin Patch)
• "The See," a sculpture created by artist Heath Satow, is officially standing at the new city hall building! Check out the city's video on Facebook showing how it was installed and the finished product. (City of Dunedin via Facebook)
• Are you creative and looking to get more involved with the community? The Kiwanis Club of Dunedin is always looking for new members who want to make a difference. Consider joining a meeting or reaching out to them on Facebook if you're interested in learning more! (Kiwanis Club of Dunedin via Facebook)
• The 13th Annual Music & Craft Beer Festival hosted by HOB Brewing Company and Dunedin House of Beer has been scheduled for March 3 and March 4! Early signup for vendors is going on right now, so be sure to reach out if you're interested. (Dunedin Festivals via Facebook | HOB Beer Fest)
• Dunedin Mardigras is coming up on Feb. 18 between 2 and 11 p.m.! Be sure to save the date and be ready to celebrate with food, drinks, music, and a parade featuring over 50 colorful floats. VIP tickets are on sale now! (Dunedin Merchants via Facebook)

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• New Year's Eve Party (December 31)
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You're all caught up for today. I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow with your next update!