It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Dunedin History Museum gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Dunedin, FL is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Always best care tarpon Springs office has been a life saver with caring for my”
“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”
“I'm a former employee of ABC and I had an awesome experience working with them.”
“We have used Always Best Senior Care more than once. Their service has always exceeded”
“I have used Always Best Care for two extended periods. All the staff assigned to”
“Raina King is a true angel, a gift from God. Our beloved Grandmother passed away”
“I love working for for ABC. The owner's are very compassionate about their clients and”
“I'm a HHA for this company and there amazing people to work for!!”
“I’ve worked for Always Best Care going on a year. I love Jeri and Keith,”
“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my”
“Keith and Jeri are angels that walk among us. My in-laws have been receiving care”
“ABC is a well managed and high quality home health care service. All the workers”
“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my”
“Always best care tarpon Springs office has been a life saver with caring for my mother with dementia. Her caregiver Linda is so dedicated to her job, and my mom and me love her to death. She is very communicative, and passionate about what she does. My mom could not live independently if i did not have always best care and linda by her side. Also whenever speaking with scheduling and office staff- they are always helpful and friendly too! Thanks guys! Yall do amazing work!”
“Cyndi is an extraordinary caregiver and ABC service has been reliable, responsive and outstanding.”
“I'm a former employee of ABC and I had an awesome experience working with them. The office staff is very warm and welcoming. The owners, Keith and Jeri are super nice and personable. They recognize their employees every month, they also have different events where we could get together and socialize. I've learned so much more, that wasn't taught at "school". Not a bad company to work for.”
“We have used Always Best Senior Care more than once. Their service has always exceeded our expectations. I would not hesitate to recommend them.”
“I have used Always Best Care for two extended periods. All the staff assigned to take care of my father were excellent and punctual. The office staff are great and have become great friends. I would recommend this company for the care of your family members.”
“Raina King is a true angel, a gift from God. Our beloved Grandmother passed away today and unfortunately we live far away. Raina was in constant communication with us through the entire journey. She gave great comfort to our loved one and we could not have been blessed with a better person to be by Gram’s side. God Bless you and all that you do. ????????❤️ Highly recommend.”
“I love working for for ABC. The owner's are very compassionate about their clients and caregivers. They go above and beyond to help those in need. I have 20+ years in healthcare and I have never worked with such an AMAZING team!”
“I'm a HHA for this company and there amazing people to work for!!”
“I’ve worked for Always Best Care going on a year. I love Jeri and Keith, very understanding. Rebeca, Natalie and Lisa, Also in the office, all listen to our needs and concerns. They are very understanding to all the caregivers, I feel like a big family with our clients. Working for this company is like having a very big extended family and I love it and would not give it up. And yes I would definitely and highly recommend Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs Florida. The extended family that I don’t have, but I do now. Thank you for letting me be a part of Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs Florida.”
“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my mom is in good hands. She enjoys their services and I highly recommend them! Thank you for your love and kindness.”
“Keith and Jeri are angels that walk among us. My in-laws have been receiving care from Always Best since May 2019. They are in their 90’s and still in their own home. This has been a year of challenges as my mother-in-law has dementia and my father-in-law’s health has gotten more tenuous. Keith has taken my dad to the hospital and urgent care, grocery shopped for them and scrambled to provide aides on short notice after hospitalization. We live out of state and I have had to depend on them so much. Jeri and Keith go above and beyond and I trust them implicitly! I can’t say enough good about them and I know that they will be successful because they are ethical, caring and operate their business with the highest degree of integrity. We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have been referred to them.”
“ABC is a well managed and high quality home health care service. All the workers have been consistently good and provide excellent care for our father. Rebeca has been awesome to ensure our needs are satisfied and that we always have the round the clock coverage we need.”
“Always Best Care of Tarpon Springs has given me peace of mind knowing that my mom is in good hands. She enjoys their services and I highly recommend them!”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Edgewater Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Black Pearl or visit Willis Blatchley House Historical Site, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Dunedin, FL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Dunedin, FL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Dunedin, FL 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
There are plenty of authentic and fun things to do in Dunedin, Florida.Located in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metro area, Dunedin (pronounced “DONE–EE-DIN”), is located just 5 miles north of Clearwater and approximately 25 miles west of Tampa.This Gulf Coast town is in Pinellas County. It’s known for its marina and the fun festivals it hosts.Dunedin has a laidback atmosphere – m...
There are plenty of authentic and fun things to do in Dunedin, Florida.
Located in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metro area, Dunedin (pronounced “DONE–EE-DIN”), is located just 5 miles north of Clearwater and approximately 25 miles west of Tampa.
This Gulf Coast town is in Pinellas County. It’s known for its marina and the fun festivals it hosts.
Dunedin has a laidback atmosphere – making it a great escape from its neighboring, faster-paced cities.
These are top things to do in Dunedin, including fun places to eat, shop, and stay during your visit.
From beautiful state parks to unique events to craft brews, check out all the places you can visit on a trip to this vibrant town.
Table of Contents
Fenway Hotel is a place in Dunedin that is full of rich history. The hotel was built in 1924 and is most notably known for being the location of the county’s first radio station, established in 1927.
The hotel is a sight to see with cool things to do, like visiting the bar or chophouse. Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar pays homage to the radio station originally located here and is known for its high-fidelity sound and experience.
The bar is a great spot to catch the sunset, with water views and an opportunity to admire the nearby islands. While there, you can enjoy a selection of cocktails, beer, wine, and small bites.
Also located at the hotel, Hew Parlor & Chophouse offers visitors an elevated dining experience. The restaurant serves brunch and dinner and is a top local spot for steak and seafood.
TIPS:
For more information, visit the official Fenway Hotel website.
Fenway Hotel Address: 453 Edgewater Dr., Dunedin, FL 34698
Downtown Dunedin is a must-visit while visiting this region. There are lots of things to do in this quaint, central location. Shopping, dining, and attending local events are all great options.
On Fridays and Saturdays from November through June, the town hosts the Downtown Market with vendors selling produce, food, and craft goods.
Downtown is also where events like the Arts & Crafts Festival and the Old Fashioned Christmas and Holiday Parade are held.
The downtown area has unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Shop for clothes, jewelry, home décor, and more while enjoying local art and cuisine.
For more information, visit the official City of Dunedin website.
Downtown Dunedin Address: 420 Main St., Dunedin, FL 34698
Caladesi Island and Honeymoon Island State Parks are two excellent beaches in Dunedin. Both parks are located on islands off the Gulf Coast.
Caladesi Island State Park is the more remote option of the two islands. It’s only accessible by boat. A ferry service takes visitors from Honeymoon Island to Caladesi Island for a four-hour stay.
Enjoy hiking, swimming, and paddling at this unspoiled destination.
Honeymoon Island State Park is home to the Rotary Centennial Nature Center. The center is where visitors can learn about the history of these two islands.
There is also a lot of information on the birds, animals, and plants that call these beautiful places their home.
The park also offers bicycle rentals, surfing, and other fun amenities.
TIPS:
For more information on Caladesi Island State Park and Honeymoon Island State Park, visit the official Florida State Parks website.
Caladesi Island State Park Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698
Honeymoon Island State Park Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698
Dunedin hosts a variety of annual events that visitors can take part in. The most well-known event is the Dunedin Highland Games & Festival.
The festival includes Scottish athletic competitions, a pipe band march, and other celebrations of Scottish culture.
Other notable events include Dunedin Wines the Blues, a blues music festival with wines and craft brews, and the Dunedin Orange Festival, which features vintage cars, swing music, and citrus goods.
For more information, visit the official Visit Dunedin website.
Dunedin has quite the local brewing scene, with a surprising number of places to enjoy craft beer.
A few favorites are Dunedin Brewery, Woodwright Brewing Company, and Cueni Brewing Co.
Dunedin Brewery is Florida’s oldest microbrewery, crafting batches 14 barrels at a time. The brewery also has a scratch kitchen and hosts live music events.
Dunedin Brewery is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 am to 11 pm, Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 1 am, and Sunday from 11 am to 9 pm.
For more information, visit the official Dunedin Brewery website.
Dunedin Brewery Address: 937 Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, FL 34698
Woodright Brewing Company opened in 2016 and usually has 12 to 16 different beers on tap.
The outdoor beer garden is the perfect spot to enjoy live music, which is hosted regularly. Other events include fun activities like yoga classes and bingo.
Woodwright Brewing Company is open Thursday from 5 pm to 11 pm, Friday and Saturday from 1 pm to 11 pm, and Sunday from 1 pm to 6 pm.
For more information, visit the official Woodwright Brewing Company website.
Woodwright Brewing Company Address: 985 Douglas Ave., Dunedin, FL 34698
Cueni Brewing Co. is another excellent Dunedin brewery that offers hand-crafted beers. Frequent new beer releases, weekly specials, and a monthly Books & Brews book club exist.
Cueni Brewing Co. is open Monday through Thursday from 3 pm to 9 pm, Friday and Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 8 pm.
For more information, visit the official Cueni Brewing Co. website.
Cueni Brewing Co. Address: 945 Huntley Ave., Dunedin, FL 34698
The Living Room is an excellent place to dine in Dunedin. The restaurant serves brunch, lunch, and dinner, making it a great option to revisit for different meals.
Enjoy brunch offerings like French toast and omelets. Lunch options include burgers, soups, and salads. Innovative dinner entrees include Brown Butter Scallops and a Porcini Mushroom Burger.
The Living Room also has a variety of cocktails, dessert cocktails, and a good variety of decadent desserts.
TIPS:
For more information, visit the official Living Room website.
The Living Room Address: 487 Main St., Dunedin, FL 34698
Are you (or do you know) a diehard Beatles fan? Then it’s time to come together for a magical mystery tour to The Beatles Museum in Dunedin.
The museum boasts memorabilia displays, including strands of The Beatles’ hair, puppets, signed guitars, and so much more.
This Beatles collection is one of the largest in the world and attracts visitors from across the Universe. Don’t miss it the next time you take the long and winding road to Dunedin.
TIPS:
For more information, Visit the Penny Lane Beatles Museum Website.
Penny Lane Beatles Museum Address: 730 Broadway, Second Floor, Dunedin, FL 34698
If you enjoyed this article about things to do in Dunedin, FL, and are looking for a few other recommendations, check out these suggestions:
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In the clearest sign yet of the Blue Jays’ interest in Shohei Ohtani, club officials are believed to have met Monday with the Japanese superstar at the team’s spring-training complex in Dunedin, Fla.While a timetable for ...
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In the clearest sign yet of the Blue Jays’ interest in Shohei Ohtani, club officials are believed to have met Monday with the Japanese superstar at the team’s spring-training complex in Dunedin, Fla.
While a timetable for Ohtani’s free-agent decision is not known, the meeting would indicate that the negotiations with the Jays and other clubs are entering the final stages. The Dodgers, Cubs and potentially other teams remain in the bidding, and Ohtani reportedly has met with more than one club.
It is not known whether Ohtani is close to a deal with any team. His free agency remains shrouded in secrecy, and officials with interested teams say his agent, Nez Balelo, has warned them that leaking any details of the process would be held against them.
For Ohtani, whose trademarks include an intense focus on preparation and relentless attention to detail, a visit to the Jays’ spring-training home likely would be a prerequisite to him further advancing negotiations. As a member of the Angels, Ohtani played at the Jays’ home park, Rogers Centre. He has not previously seen the team’s $100 million training complex, which opened in 2021.
All day Monday, there were signs something was happening between the Jays and Ohtani.
General manager Ross Atkins did not meet with the club’s media in person at the Winter Meetings, instead conducting his session by Zoom because of what the team called “a scheduling conflict.” Manager John Schneider was originally scheduled to speak to media on Monday as well, but last Friday, the team’s public-relations staff rescheduled his availability for Tuesday afternoon. Meanwhile, Balelo also was not in Tennessee on Monday, according to an industry source with knowledge of the situation.
The Athletic’s Kaitlyn McGrath reported that Atkins conducted his Zoom while sitting in front of a nondescript white wall that offered no clues to his whereabouts.
“Due to scheduling conflicts, I was able to be on this call, which I am grateful for your adjustment to be here with me today,” Atkins told reporters. “I wanted to make sure that I was with you and Zoom permitted that to happen.”
The Dodgers have long been considered the front-runner for Ohtani, but the Jays in recent weeks have emerged as a serious suitor. The urgency with which Toronto is maneuvering seemingly reflects a series of circumstances that is forcing the club into win-now mode.
As reported by The Athletic on Sunday, those circumstances include:
— The Athletic’s Andy McCullough contributed reporting.
(Photo of Shohei Ohtan: Gary A. Vasquez / USA Today)
There are plenty of authentic and fun things to do in Dunedin, Florida.Located in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metro area, Dunedin (pronounced “DONE–EE-DIN”), is located just five miles north of Clearwater and approximately 25 miles west of Tampa.This Gulf Coast town is in Pinellas County. It’s known for its marina and the fun festivals it hosts.Dunedin has a laidback atmosphere &ndash...
There are plenty of authentic and fun things to do in Dunedin, Florida.
Located in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metro area, Dunedin (pronounced “DONE–EE-DIN”), is located just five miles north of Clearwater and approximately 25 miles west of Tampa.
This Gulf Coast town is in Pinellas County. It’s known for its marina and the fun festivals it hosts.
Dunedin has a laidback atmosphere – making it a great escape from its neighboring, faster-paced cities.
These are top things to do in Dunedin, including fun places to eat, shop, and stay during your visit.
From beautiful state parks to unique events to craft brews, check out all the places you can visit on a trip to this vibrant town.
Table of Contents
Fenway Hotel is a place in Dunedin that is full of rich history. The hotel was built in 1924 and is most notably known for being the location of the county’s first radio station, established in 1927.
The hotel is a sight to see with cool things to do, like visiting the bar or chophouse. Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar pays homage to the radio station originally located here and is known for its high-fidelity sound and experience.
The bar is a great spot to catch the sunset, with water views and an opportunity to admire the nearby islands. While there, you can enjoy a selection of cocktails, beer, wine, and small bites.
Also located at the hotel, Hew Parlor & Chophouse offers visitors an elevated dining experience. The restaurant serves brunch and dinner and is a top local spot for steak and seafood.
TIPS:
For more information, visit the official Fenway Hotel website.
Fenway Hotel Address: 453 Edgewater Dr., Dunedin, FL 34698
Downtown Dunedin is a must-visit while visiting this region. There are lots of things to do in this quaint, central location. Shopping, dining, and attending local events are all great options.
On Fridays and Saturdays from November through June, the town hosts the Downtown Market with vendors selling produce, food, and craft goods.
Downtown is also where events like the Arts & Crafts Festival and the Old Fashioned Christmas and Holiday Parade are held.
The downtown area has unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Shop for clothes, jewelry, home décor, and more while enjoying local art and cuisine.
For more information, visit the official City of Dunedin website.
Downtown Dunedin Address: 420 Main St., Dunedin, FL 34698
Caladesi Island and Honeymoon Island State Parks are two excellent beaches in Dunedin. Both parks are located on islands off the Gulf Coast.
Caladesi Island State Park is the more remote option of the two islands. It’s only accessible by boat. A ferry service takes visitors from Honeymoon Island to Caladesi Island for a four-hour stay.
Enjoy hiking, swimming, and paddling at this unspoiled destination.
Honeymoon Island State Park is home to the Rotary Centennial Nature Center. The center is where visitors can learn about the history of these two islands.
There is also a lot of information on the birds, animals, and plants that call these beautiful places their home.
The park also offers bicycle rentals, surfing, and other fun amenities.
TIPS:
For more information on Caladesi Island State Park and Honeymoon Island State Park, visit the official Florida State Parks website.
Caladesi Island State Park Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698
Honeymoon Island State Park Address: 1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698
Dunedin hosts a variety of annual events that visitors can take part in. The most well-known event is the Dunedin Highland Games & Festival.
The festival includes Scottish athletic competitions, a pipe band march, and other celebrations of Scottish culture.
Other notable events include Dunedin Wines the Blues, a blues music festival with wines and craft brews, and the Dunedin Orange Festival, which features vintage cars, swing music, and citrus goods.
For more information, visit the official Visit Dunedin website.
Dunedin has quite the local brewing scene, with a surprising number of places to enjoy craft beer.
A few favorites are Dunedin Brewery, Woodwright Brewing Company, and Cueni Brewing Co.
Dunedin Brewery is Florida’s oldest microbrewery, crafting batches 14 barrels at a time. The brewery also has a scratch kitchen and hosts live music events.
Dunedin Brewery is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 am to 11 pm, Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 1 am, and Sunday from 11 am to 9 pm.
For more information, visit the official Dunedin Brewery website.
Dunedin Brewery Address: 937 Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, FL 34698
Woodright Brewing Company opened in 2016 and usually has 12 to 16 different beers on tap.
The outdoor beer garden is the perfect spot to enjoy live music, which is hosted regularly. Other events include fun activities like yoga classes and bingo.
Woodwright Brewing Company is open Thursday from 5 pm to 11 pm, Friday and Saturday from 1 pm to 11 pm, and Sunday from 1 pm to 6 pm.
For more information, visit the official Woodwright Brewing Company website.
Woodwright Brewing Company Address: 985 Douglas Ave., Dunedin, FL 34698
Cueni Brewing Co. is another excellent Dunedin brewery that offers hand-crafted beers. Frequent new beer releases, weekly specials, and a monthly Books & Brews book club exist.
Cueni Brewing Co. is open Monday through Thursday from 3 pm to 9 pm, Friday and Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 8 pm.
For more information, visit the official Cueni Brewing Co. website.
Cueni Brewing Co. Address: 945 Huntley Ave., Dunedin, FL 34698
The Living Room is an excellent place to dine in Dunedin. The restaurant serves brunch, lunch, and dinner, making it a great option to revisit for different meals.
Enjoy brunch offerings like French toast and omelets. Lunch options include burgers, soups, and salads. Innovative dinner entrees include Brown Butter Scallops and a Porcini Mushroom Burger.
The Living Room also has a variety of cocktails, dessert cocktails, and a good variety of decadent desserts.
TIPS:
For more information, visit the official Living Room website.
The Living Room Address: 487 Main St., Dunedin, FL 34698
Are you (or do you know) a diehard Beatles fan? Then it’s time to come together for a magical mystery tour to The Beatles Museum in Dunedin.
The museum boasts memorabilia displays, including strands of The Beatles’ hair, puppets, signed guitars, and so much more.
This Beatles collection is one of the largest in the world and attracts visitors from across the Universe. Don’t miss it the next time you take the long and winding road to Dunedin.
TIPS:
For more information, Visit the Penny Lane Beatles Museum Website.
Penny Lane Beatles Museum Address: 730 Broadway, Second Floor, Dunedin, FL 34698
If you enjoyed this article about things to do in Dunedin, FL, and are looking for a few other recommendations, check out these suggestions:
Five acres of untamed Old Florida live on, in spite of a controversy-filled past and an uncertain future.By|Updated Aug. 3CloseWe hope you enjoyed your free article.Get 3 months of unlimited access for $123.51 $3.Enjoy the many benefits of a Tampa Bay Times digital subscription.tampabay.come-Newspapere-NewsletterAppFLASH SALE – Ends soon! ...
Five acres of untamed Old Florida live on, in spite of a controversy-filled past and an uncertain future.
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DUNEDIN — As far as the eye can see, there is green.
Green leaves, green flowers, green duckweeds. A carpet of green, which gently sinks under your feet when you take a step. An archway of green, which sways and tickles your nose as you walk by.
Occasional bursts of color peek through: loquats, wildflowers, tomatoes, carambola, Spanish needles. Cicadas, hummingbirds and blue jays faintly hum (and occasionally screech). The air is perfumed by the various trees dotting the property: camphor, magnolia, oak. A heron idles by. A duck snatches its prey. Two beetles briefly pause from their munching to create new life.
Paradise, it turns out, is 5 acres of backyard in the middle of Dunedin. It’s getting harder to keep it that way.
It all started generations earlier, in 1947, when Alice and Lewis Earle first moved with their children to Dunedin, attracted to the surrounding mangroves and seagrass.
A few years later, they bought a nearby plot of land and built their own house. Four years later, on the same plot, they built another. This second home was later torn down, and the space now houses honeybees and vegetable beds. Their property, along New York Avenue, is a few blocks south and inland of downtown.
The environmentally conscious pair wanted their land to be a wildlife haven, so while neighbors religiously mowed their small patches of green, the Earles shunned fertilizer and instead ceded their yard to nature. Soon, their property became home to otters, frogs, turtles, fish, hawks, woodpeckers, rabbits, egrets, opossums and countless species of trees and plants.
When they passed away, they left the house — and the surrounding land — to their daughter, Sylvia Earle.
Earle, now 87, has enthusiastically taken up the cause. A self-described “reformed Jersey girl,” Earle is a well-known environmentalist in her own right, particularly as an oceanographer. She was the first woman to be chief scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and holds the women’s record for solo dive depth in a human-occupied submersible.
Her interest in the environment, she said, started at home. She saw her parents choose to keep the wild lawn as is, adding to the flora, rather than replacing it with manicured grass.
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Along with her daughter, Liz Taylor, as well as friends and various volunteer organizations in Pinellas County, Sylvia Earle continues to cultivate the property — for example, aerating the previously stagnant lake and attempting to eradicate invasive species.
It is only recently that their efforts are receiving support from the city — and the public more broadly.
Decades ago, Earle’s father sold a piece of the property to developers in the hopes that it would become a space for teachers and scientists. Instead, it turned into a set of condominiums that cut into their yard.
In 1989, after neighbors complained about what they called overgrown conditions and a fear of the wildlife in the Earles’ yard, the city took a lawn mower to the north end of the property and gave it what Earle called a “crew cut,” decimating the recently planted native hollies and oak trees. “It was a scorched-earth situation,” Taylor said.
The Earles launched a battle with Dunedin, primarily surrounding the city’s lawn mowing ordinance, which prohibited grass over 12 inches tall.
In 1990, the Tampa Bay Times wrote about the battle (and called the property “a tangle of shrubs and growth”). The dispute ended with Alice Earle agreeing to pay a small sum and the city installing stormwater culverts in the lake, intended to control the flow of trash. The culverts are still a point of contention. The family says they trap wildlife and accumulate debris.
Nearly three decades later, in 2019, the city attempted to fine Sylvia Earle $30,000 for violating a similar lawn ordinance, which prohibits grass over 10 inches. They settled for Earle paying $10,000 and agreeing to give a free lecture, though the family maintains that they never violated the ordinance, since their “tall grass” was actually wildflowers.
Now, it seems like their xeriscaping ethos is spreading. Neighbors keep rain barrels in their own driveways to collect water for gardening and contribute to environmental research conducted on the property. One neighbor was so inspired that, until he moved away, he kept a sign in his driveway stating “Mow No Mo’.” The Earles and volunteers regularly host densely attended classes on bird-watching, hikes throughout the property and movie screenings.
There’s interest beyond Dunedin, too. “No Mow May” is practiced across the country, bolstered by social media and studies showing that lawn mowing negatively affects pollinator populations. Some, like the Earles, are ditching the mowing altogether.
A handful of local landscaping companies said they’ve indeed noticed more people inquiring about xeriscaping or wild lawns — or, at the very least, wanting native plants that attract wildlife. While they said these clients have increased in recent years, such requests make up a small portion of their work.
“For the most part, it’s, ‘Make my yard look good,’” said Diego Rodriguez, a landscaper at NorthStar Landscape Construction & Design in Tampa.
Sylvia Earle says that, beyond the wildlife and natural beauty that her wild lawn creates, there are real environmental benefits. For example, the tree canopy creates shade, essential as the sweltering summers in the area continue to grow hotter.
Biodiversity also means significantly fewer mosquitoes, since they are eaten by frogs and other animals. Pollinators flock to the area, flitting among plants and trees in the nearby community.
The family recently scored a significant win as Dunedin’s historic preservation advisory committee approved their application to designate the property a historical landmark.
The move was intended to protect the place from developers and to expand the property’s educational offerings. As a testament to how far the city has come, committee members immediately reached a consensus to support the request, which noted its conservation efforts.
When the vote advancing the application to the city commission passed unanimously, with one abstention, committee members and more than 20 supporters stood up and clapped.
The Earle family sees their property as an example of how every person, yard by yard, can create mini sanctuaries — a battle between new, concrete, developed Florida and old, wild, pre-paved Florida.
They know they’re not always winning.
When Sylvia grew up, she said, the lake on their property flowed freely. Now, plastic bottles and other trash flow down storm drains and accumulate in the lake, which is contaminated by lawn fertilizer runoff. Invasive species, such as air potato, are filling the grounds, despite regular efforts to eradicate them. The chirping and humming of the insects and birds almost, but not quite, mask the roar of cars on the nearby thoroughfare. And it’s only a chain-link fence that separates the lakeside path from the driveway of the condo complex.
“At the moment,” said Taylor, Sylvia’s daughter, “it’s kind of a little paved-over piece of Eden, unfortunately.”
The Times reached out to Julie Phillips, Dunedin’s code compliance officer, to ask how recent shows of support by city officials square with its lawn ordinance, which still stands. Phillips replied by email, saying she had been unfamiliar with the Earles’ property, so she had driven by.
She found that it was “currently in violation for overgrowth and lack of maintenance from the fence line to the street on both sides of the property,” she wrote. She said someone on the property agreed to have the area cleaned up in the near future.
Up next:Tampa Bay residents ask: What did they do to that beautiful tree?
DUNEDIN, FL — With last week's official groundbreaking ceremony, the Freebie Dunedin Loop service has hit the streets of Dunedin, offering rides along two fixed routes through the city, eliminating the hassle of searching for parking spaces.This groundbreaking addition to Dunedin's transportation landscape isn't simply a ride, said city commissioners. It's part of Dunedin's vision for a greener, more interconnected fut...
DUNEDIN, FL — With last week's official groundbreaking ceremony, the Freebie Dunedin Loop service has hit the streets of Dunedin, offering rides along two fixed routes through the city, eliminating the hassle of searching for parking spaces.
This groundbreaking addition to Dunedin's transportation landscape isn't simply a ride, said city commissioners. It's part of Dunedin's vision for a greener, more interconnected future.
The service was launched with the goal of fostering community connectivity, reducing traffic congestion, freeing up limited parking spaces, and helping to transform Dunedin into a city where living, working and playing can be achieved without owning a personal vehicle.
Also, by using a 100 percent electric fleet, this service will not only reduce carbon emissions but also promote environmental sustainability.
Providing a fixed-route looper service with eco-friendly and ADA-accessible vehicles, the Freebee Dunedin Loop will operate four days a week, from Thursday to Sunday, starting at 11 a.m. On Thursday, the service runs until 10 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, it operates until midnight. Sundays offer service until 7 p.m.
Related: 6-Month Pilot Shuttle Service To Be Launched By Dunedin
The key stops will be at hotels, parks, Dunedin City Hall, the marina, the hospital, surface parking lots and the Dunedin parking garage.
During spring training, the Looper route will be extended to ensure that Blue Jay fans get to and from TD Ballpark.
The service's extended hours will ensure that the community has access to reliable transportation throughout the weekend during the six-month pilot program.
To use the Freebee Dunedin Loop, passengers can either flag down a vehicle along the route or make use of the Ride Freebee mobile app, which allows real-time tracking and exploration of everything downtown Dunedin has to offer.
"We're thrilled to introduce our free, 100 percent electric transportation to the vibrant city of Dunedin," said Jason Spiegel, manager partner of the Miami-based Beefree LLC, contracted to implement the downtown looper. "Our mission is to create a platform that not only makes transportation easier but also fosters community one ride at a time. We're confident that the city will embrace this new eco-friendly way to move about the city."
The $127,830 pilot project was fully funded with Dunedin's share of American Rescue Plan Act dollars.
If the pilot is successful and the service becomes permanent, the city plans to acquire sponsorships to help pay for the loop service.
Yes, the Looper is pet-friendly, is completely free to use though riders are welcome to tip their drivers and the vehicles are not driverless like the pilot Autonomous Vehicle Advantage service that was previously offered in Dunedin by the Pinellas Sunshine Transit Authority.
For answers to more questions, click here.
727.777.4997
