🌱 Witches Of Dunedin On TV + ​Back In The Day Books​ + Blond Aveda

Hello all! I hope you all had a wonderful Halloween weekend. Now, here are all the most important things to know about what's happening in town, including...

• The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office Night Out event
• The Witches of Dunedin televised appearance
• An interview with Back in the Day Books owner

But first, today's weather:

Humid with plenty of sunshine. High: 85 Low: 73.

Shoutout to our premier local sponsor:

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. The Witches of Dunedin appeared on a special Halloween episode of Tampa Bay’s Morning Blend. "Head Witch" Alison Clarke explained how the group got started after she saw the German Witch Dance on Facebook and decided to bring it to Tampa Bay. This year the ladies had 27 performances, despite getting its start just four years ago. While the witches rarely reveal where they'll be this time of the year, they do offer hints on their social media page. Check out their televised performance at the link! (ABC Action News Tampa Bay)
2. In honor of Women-Owned Business Month, the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce has been highlighting woman-owned businesses. The final spotlight was placed on Salon Blond Aveda, owned by sisters Victoria Marino and Laura Lee Blankenship. Their salon specializes in color, haircuts, balayage, decisional coloring, extensions, keratins, and facial waxing. They were listed among Top 200 Salons in the Nation by Salon Today in 2022. According to the Chamber of Commerce's post, Marino started her career in 2005. "She feels that building a staff through apprenticeships is the best approach, so that all stylists have the same core training and workmanship. Each handpicked stylist reflects her philosophies, exceptional craftsmanship, and attention to detail." You can visit her salon on Douglas Avenue or learn more on their website. (Dunedin Chamber of Commerce via Facebook)
3. Back in the Day Books owner, Bo Rushing, revealed how his business survived the COVID-19 pandemic. The bookstore makes most of its money during the end of tourist season, which was when the pandemic first hit the Tampa Bay area. To survive, Rushing provided curbside orders. “Honestly, at this point, I am so thankful to have survived all that. It was a scary time and I just wanted to do the right thing." He is also thankful for a rise in the community's appreciation for small businesses. (The Crown's Nest)

Dunedin Daily Pic of the Day:

Thank you, Debbie Guido, for sharing this incredible sunset photo!

Today in Dunedin:

• Medicare Part C Advantage Plan at the Hale Senior Activity Center (10 a.m.)
• Pinellas Sheriff's Night Out at Highlander Park (5 p.m.)
• Dunedin Toastmasters meeting at Unity Community Church (7 p.m.)
• Books and Brews at Cueni Brewing Co. (7 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Interested in getting involved in the city? Apply to become a member of our Local Planning Agency! According to the city's website, those in this position "advise and counsel the City Commission concerning matters relative to the planning of future development." (City of Dunedin via Facebook)
• Happy National Cat Day! In honor of this special day, the SPCA Tampa Bay put a spotlight on Luke, a 7-year-old black kitty waiting for his forever family. According to the SPCA, "Luke's hobbies include snacking on Temptations treats, sticking his tongue out for attention, and training to be the world's greatest couch potato." Check its website or head to the shelter to meet Luke and all of his feline friends! (SPCA Tampa Bay via Facebook)
• The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office is hosting a Night Out at Highlander Park today, Nov. 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. The event will offer interactive family-friendly activities, vehicle displays, demonstrations, public safety information, and more. (Dunedin Patch)
• Meet artist Haijin Sun, who will be attending the 58th Annual Art Harvest on Nov. 5 and 6 at Highlander Park. Haijin is a Chinese-born painter who often incorporates animals in hilariously human scenarios. Be sure to check out his work at the festival or on his website. (Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin Art Harvest via Facebook)

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Featured businesses:

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Events:

• Social Security Seminar (November 2)
• Breast Ultrasound Screening Coming Direct to You! (November 3)
• Mystical Spirit Expressing Retreat (November 5)
• Merry Martini (November 19)
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For sale:

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You're all caught up for today! See you all tomorrow for another update.