News for the active lifestyle in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

BIKE TRAIL UPDATE FOR MOUNT DORA & TAVARES

2/1/2020

It’s always one of the hottest local topics in Mount Dora and Tavares -- the Tav-Dora trail, a bike trail that would connect the two communities to each other and to Florida’s Coast-to-Coast Trail. Recently, the railroad was sold, so it’s an opportune time for Mount Dora Buzz to provide an update with current information from the trail’s long-time advocate and spearhead, Tavares City Administrator, John Drury.

Who purchased the railroad from Pinsley and how does that affect the status of the trail?
The new owner of the railroad tracks is Regional Rail, LLC, which operates short-line railroads in Florida, Delaware, New York and Pennsylvania. The company has reportedly shown interest in selling the portions of track needed to create the Tav-Dora Trail.

The feasibility study will be completed this spring. What will it include?
The FDOT study will evaluate the feasibility and cost of developing a paved non- motorized trail (bicycles, rollerblading and walking) to connect downtown Tavares to downtown Mount Dora with a connection to the Golden Triangle YMCA along the Old 441 corridor in one of the following three (3) locations:

In the railroad bed (“Rail-to-Trail” project).
In the railroad right-of-way next to the railroad (“Rail-and-Trail”)
In the Old 441 right-of-way

How are Tavares, Mount Dora and Lake County working together to move the trail forward?
The cities are jointly meeting with Regional Rail to negotiate the next steps and its anticipated this could lead to an interlocal governmental agreement in the near future.

What would the interlocal agreement address?
The trail needs to be owned and maintained by a local government. The interlocal governmental agreement would outline what local governmental entity or entities would own the trail and maintain it. For example, the agreement could provide that Lake County owns the trail and Mount Dora, Tavares and Lake County share in the annual maintenance of the trail.

What is the current best-case timeline?
Approximately four years. Here is the breakdown: one year to secure funding, six months for the acquisition process, one year to design, engineer and permit, followed by a year and a half to construct.

What does the community need to do to help ensure the bike trail proceeds?
In order to secure funding for the trail, the local business community and residents need to let their city, county, state and federal representatives know of their support for the trail that connects Tavares and Mount Dora.

Will the joint effort between Lake County, Mount Dora and Tavares include funding the leg of the trail from Mount Dora to East Lake Community Park in Sorrento, which would be needed to connect to the 200-mile Coast to Coast Trail?
According to Drury, that section goes hand-in-hand with the Mount Dora to Tavares section so it will be included.

What will a bike trail do economically for Tavares and Mount Dora?
A 2011 Orange County study found that the West Orange Trail, connecting Apopka, downtown Winter Garden and Clermont, had 1.7 million annual trail visitors that spend an average of $20 per trail visit at local businesses. Trail visitors’ total annual spending was $32.6 million. A Pinellas Trail study cited 1 million annual trail users. The numbers would be less for the Tav-Dora Trail due to the lower regional population, but it would still be significant.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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MOUNT DORA'S CHALLENGING CORN MAZE RETURNS OCT. 5

10/2/2019

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ABOVE: A previous year's' maze. (Photo via Long & Scott Farm Corn Maze Adventure)

Get lost! And have a blast doing it!

The 17th annual Corn Maze Adventure at Long & Scott Farm opens on October 5. The popular seasonal attraction reportedly brings in an estimated 1500-2000 weekend visitors.

This year’s theme of the giant 6.5-acre corn maze is “Feel Whole” and features various healthy outdoor activities carved into the rows of corn. Visitors that dare can enter the maze, sponsored by AdventHealth, and attempt to find their way out of the tall and twisting corn field. No need to panic. It's a friendly day of fun, and before an anxiety attack kicks in, participants can raise a flag to surrender and be promptly rescued. There is also a half-acre mini-maze for smaller guests.

The two mazes have lots of paths and plenty of room. Employees inside the maze and on a bridge monitor and help guests navigate the rows of corn. Guests are asked to divide into groups of four to six people, with an adult in each group, and then enter the maze with a flag and a game sheet.

The popular weekend attraction also includes a lot of fun outdoor activities for kids, including an oversized jumping pillow, 60' super slide, kids' zip line, mist maze and hayrides. Food vendors are onsite, as well as a country market and cafe.

Scott's Maze Adventure is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. between October 5 and December 8. Visitors should get there early to avoid long lines. Latest entry is 3 p.m. The farm is located at 26216 County Road 448A, Mount Dora. Admission is $12; children 3 and under are free.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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TOP 10 WALKING TRAILS IN LAKE COUNTY

8/28/2019

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ABOVE: Palm Island Boardwalk in Mount Dora.

The kids are back in school and now you can take some time back for yourself in the great outdoors. Here’s the top ten walking trails in Lake County to take in some nature and exercise. Who knows, you may enjoy them so much, you bring the kids on your next visit.

ABOVE: Hidden Waters Preserve (Mount Dora Buzz photo)

Hidden Waters Preserve, Eustis
Arguably some of the best trails in Lake County, this preserve offers various well-marked paths with small rolling hills, a hidden flowing creek, a large pond and plenty of gopher tortoises, water birds and butterflies. The blue markings keep you on the Lake Alfred Trail, which loops the lake and the red markings are for the Ravine Trail. Open 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Located at 2010 Abrams Road in Eustis.

ABOVE: Trout Lake Nature Center (TLNC photo)

Trout Lake Nature Center, Eustis
The 230 acres include not only a nature center, swinging bridge, picnic area and educational exhibits, but also a network of short, wide trails that meander through a variety of upland and wetland habitats with lots of opportunities for spotting wildlife. A boardwalk leads to a covered dock on Trout Lake. Open 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on most days. Located at 520 East County Road 44 in Eustis.

Lake Gertrude Walking Path, Mount Dora
This short and shady 3.51-mile path around residential Lake Gertrude is surrounded by lush landscaping and beautiful Mount Dora homes along the lakefront. Dusk and dawn walkers will see plenty of small rabbits nibbling along the western shore. Located at North Morningside Drive from U.S. Highway 441 or from the south on Old Highway 441. Dawn to dusk

ABOVE: Lake May Reserve trail, (Lake County photo)

Lake May Reserve
Oak hammocks, upland scrub, hardwood forested areas and old citrus groves fill this 136-acre reserve that also encompasses a 20-acre lake and wetlands. There are multiple trail loops where hikers might stumble upon interesting reindeer moss in shady areas or gopher tortoises in the scrub habitats. Located at 36300 County Road 44A in Eustis. Open dawn to dusk.

Pine Meadow Conservation Area, Eustis
Opened in 2018, this 770-acre conservation area, complete with more than six miles of passive recreational trails, offers fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The area has become popular with birders due to its nearly 120 species, including bald eagles, blue-winged warblers, Henslow’s sparrows, swallow-tailed kites and others. Visitors will find public restrooms, picnic tables, a canoe and kayak launch area and a dog-friendly trail. Located at 2280 Pine Meadows Golf Course Road in Eustis. Open dawn to dusk.

ABOVE: Palm Island Boardwalk, Mount Dora (Mount Dora Buzz photo)

Palm Island Boardwalk, Mount Dora
Enjoy this recently refurbished eight-acre preservation area that offers walking trails through wooded areas where hikers can view scenery and wildlife, such as birds and alligators, from an elevated boardwalk. There are covered areas, benches and picnic tables along the way. Located at 411 South Tremain Street in Mount Dora. Trail hours are daily from dawn to sunset.

Sawgrass Island Preserve, Umatilla
Located at the north end of Lake Yale, this isolated 1178-acre watershed preserve boasts an impressive 600-acre sawgrass marsh and offers six multi-loop grassy trails that wind through forest, marsh, hardwood hammocks and lakeside habitats. This vast preserve, known for its great bird-watching, is home to Florida sandhill cranes, pileated woodpeckers, great horned owls, herons and other birds. Located at 11931 Sawgrass Island Road in Umatilla. Trail hours are 8:00 a.m. to sunset.

ABOVE: Tavares Nature Park (City of Tavares photo)

Tavares Nature Park, Tavares
This 101-acre park is just minutes from downtown Tavares, but you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the Ocala forest. Benches provide resting opportunities in some spots and there is a picnic table and pavilion next to a small pond at the park’s center. A small fishing dock on Lake Dora provides the perfect vantage point for sunrises over the lake. The perimeter trail is approximately a two-mile loop with other trails in between. Located at 1551 Milwaukee Avenue in Tavares. Trail hours are daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Bourlay Historic Nature Park, Leesburg
This 88-acre wooded park on the southern shore of Lake Griffin has historical sites along Settlers Bend Trail. The “Cracker House” near the parking lot provides helpful information before hikers start off on the trails. There are 10 exercise stations along the Buddy’s Bounty Trail, a .48-mile loop. The short Nature Way Trail features a gazebo for a shaded place to rest. Located at 851 North Canal Street, Leesburg, FL 34748. Trail hours are daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

ABOVE: Lake Louisa State Park (Florida Parks photo)

Lake Louisa State Park, Clermont
This State Park features 20 miles of unpaved, multi-use trails for hikers and cyclists. Three major lakes, Louisa, Hammond and Dixie, are ideal for canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding. Visitors should keep on the lookout for wildlife including deer, bobcat, gopher tortoises, fox squirrel and flighted creatures like bald eagles and osprey. Located at 7305 U.S. Highway 27 in Clermont. Hours are 8:00 a.m. until sundown.

Not only do Lake County’s trails provide beautiful places to unwind in Florida's natural environment, the hikes can also provide good exercise with substantial health benefits.

“Regular walking cuts the risk of heart attack in half and increases HDL cholesterol levels and also lowers blood fat levels and triglycerides.”,” said Candace Huber, Director of CREATION Health at AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here. Also download the area's free mobile app.

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MOUNT DORA HIGH SCHOOL 2019 Football schedule

8/9/2019

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VARSITY GAMES

All games start at 7pm.  Games in bold are home games. This schedule may be subject to change without notice by MDHS due to field conditions and other factors.
__________________________
Aug, 16 Kick-Off Classic Preseason Game, Lake Minneola H.S.
Aug. 23: East Ridge H.S.
August 29: South Lake H.S.
Sept. 6: Trinity Catholic (Ocala)
Sept. 13: Leesburg*, HOMECOMING
Sept. 20: Bye
Sept. 27: Eustis H.S.*
Oct. 4: South Sumter H.S.
Oct. 11: Tavares H.S.*
Oct. 17: Jones H.S.*
Oct. 25: Bishop Moore H.S.*
Nov. 1: Umatilla H.S., SENIOR NIGHT
Nov. 8: State playoffs begin
*District games

JUNIOR VARSITY GAMES

All games begin at 6:30 p.m. Games in bold are home games.
Aug. 22: Tavares H.S.
Aug. 29: Eustis H.S.
Sept. 5: Lake Minneola H.S. (cancelled)
Sept. 12: South Lake H.S.
Sept. 19: Umatilla H.S.
Sept. 26: Leesburg H.S.
Oct. 3: East Ridge H.S.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app.

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MOUNT DORA OFFERS FUN NEW SUMMER CAMPS

4/14/2019

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This summer Mount Dora really upped its game. In addition to its annual KidzQuest summer camp offered weekly for ten weeks, the City created four new specialty camps that are destined to be even more popular.

Most of the week-long specialty camps are offered more than one week and begin at 7 a.m. and end at 6 p.m with the drop-off location of Round Lake Charter School. Due to limited space and equipment, campers should enroll early to reserve a spot. Dates and details for each are listed on the Mount Dora Buzz cheat sheet below:

KIDZQUEST

Ages: 6-12
Description: The City’s regular KidzQuest camp made some fun changes to excite young campers. Each week will provide a different theme with crafts and hands-on activities planned around it. In addition, the campers will go on exciting field trips. Five weeks of this camp are already full, so it’s best to reserve now.
Dates: 10 one-week camp sessions, beginning June 1 and ending August 9.
Cost: $99 per week for Mount Dora residents/$109 per week for non-residents

FISHING CAMP

Ages: 8-14
Description: Campers will become seasoned anglers after learning about tackle, knot tying, fish identification, rules and etiquette, as well as cleaning and preparing fish. Campers will experience bank and boat fishing, as well as receive their own fishing pole, tackle box with tackle and a Friday Family Fish Fry.
Dates: July 8-12 and/or July 22-26
Cost: $125 per week for Mount Dora residents/$135 per week for non-residents

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CAMP

Ages: 10 -14
Description: Active campers will head to the outdoors to enjoy zip-lining, rock climbing, laser tag and more.
Dates: June 3-7, June 24-28, and July 15-19, August 8-12
Cost: $175 per week for Mount Dora residents/$185 per week for non-residents

KAYAK CAMP

Ages: 10 -14
Description: Campers that love the water will get an introduction to kayaking including instruction of the basics, as well as paddling techniques before their water adventures begin.
Dates: June 14-28, July 1-5 (no camp July 4), July 29-Aug. 2
Cost: $125 per week for Mount Dora residents/$135 per week for non-residents

FIRST RESPONDER CAMP

Ages: 10 -14
Description: Campers will learn what it takes to be a firefighter, police officer and EMT.
Dates: July 10-14
Cost: $125 per week for Mount Dora residents/$135 per week for non-residents

Get more information or register here. Stay updated on these events and others by signing up for the monthly Mount Dora Buzz update here. For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download its free mobile app.

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GUIDE TO U-PICK BLUEBERRY FARMS IN LAKE COUNTY

4/1/2019

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It’s become one of the favorite seasons in Lake County. This year’s blueberry season kicks off the end of March and is expected to continue through May.

The growing number of local U-Pick farms currently has prices that range from approximately $4 for regular berries to $8 per pound for organic.   Eager blueberry lovers should pick to their hearts’ content since blueberries are widely considered a “super food” that’s low in calories and high in nutrients and antioxidants.

The state's history of growing blueberries began in the late 1800's.   The sweet crop was one of Florida's tastiest secrets. It wasn't until the 1970's that the current hybrid cultivar blueberry was introduced, and by the mid 1980's mass plantings took root in north-central and northwestern Florida.   The industry has grown tenfold over the last 30 years with hundreds of small blueberry farms sprouting up throughout the state.

Pickers should wear closed-toe shoes and pack drinking water. Due to variable picking hours, berry availability and weather conditions, it's recommended visitors call farms prior to visiting.

Here's the list of local U-Pick blueberry farms:

Atwood Family U-Pick Farm
25079 SE Hwy 450, Umatilla
352-630-0145

Blue Bayou Farms (organic)
8222 CR 48, Yalaha
352-267-5277
Other offerings: hot dogs and moonshine.

Far Reach Ranch Heavenly Blueberries
1255 South Dora Blvd., Tavares
352-343-7389
Other offerings: A variety of blueberry jams, blueberry salsa and local honey.

King Grove Organic Farm
19741 CR 44A, Eustis
352-589-2469

Lake Catherine Blueberries
5849 Lake Catherine Rd, Groveland
352-551-4110
Other offerings: Blackberries, jams, blueberry lemonade, ice cream, baked goods.

Artisan Acres
31614 Bottany Woods Dr., Eustis
407-915-4122
Other offerings: Local honey.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Free subscriptions to Mount Dora Buzz' monthly updates are available here.

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GILBERT PARK'S PLAYGROUND READIES FOR OPENING DAY IN MOUNT DORA

1/13/2019

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The childhood treasure of Mount Dora will soon be re-opening. After a 3-month renovation, the Gilbert Park playground will put smiles on kids’ and parents’ faces again beginning on January 26.

In addition to a modern, two-tier pirate ship that replaced the aging wooden castle, the newly mulched playground also features equipment with large, rustic timber frames that include new swings, a rope climbing web and balance beams. (See video below)

Related: More information on Gilbert Park's new pirate ship

For children’s safety, the city improved lines of sight for caregivers to watch their children, and also added a new four-foot metal fence around the perimeter of the play area. Picnic tables will now be included inside the fenced area, so families can safely enjoy picnics while the children run back and forth to the play equipment.

The renovated playground was designed and built by Kompan, a Texas-based company. The $263,000 price tag for renovations and equipment was funded by the Parks Impact Fee Fund.

The old play fort was was built by the community almost 30 years ago and was demolished in late September. The smaller, plastic fort for toddlers remained. The new playground was originally expected to reopen by the end of October, but was delayed due to a missing part.

Opening day will begin with a public ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. Gilbert Park playground is located at 310 South Tremain Street in Mount Dora.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here. To get the area's top stories in your inbox once a month, sign up for the free monthly issue of Mount Dora Buzz.

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MOUNT DORA WELCOMES RUNNERS AND ROAD CLOSURES THIS WEEKEND

12/12/2018

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Runners, take your mark! Mount Dora's Half Marathon & 5k will take over the streets of Mount Dora during both mornings this weekend.

Runners in the 5k will hit the road on Saturday at 7:45 a.m. The half marathon runners will have their turn on Sunday beginning at 7 a.m.

ROAD CLOSURES

ABOVE: 5k route on Saturday

During the races, there will be the following road closures:
SATURDAY, 7:00 am to 9:30 am.

Unser Street, from Lincoln Avenue to 11th Avenue
11th Avenue, from N. Unser Street to Clayton Street
Clayton Street, from 11th Avenue to Liberty Avenue
Liberty Avenue, from Clayton Street to Grandview Street
Grandview Street, from Liberty Avenue to Lincoln Avenue
Lincoln Avenue, from Grandview Street to Baker Street
Baker Street to Donnelly Park

Additionally, the Edgerton Court Parking Area at Evans Park will be closed at 4 p.m. and remained closed through Sunday. The parking lot located on Baker Street and Tremain will remain open throughout the weekend.

ABOVE: Half marathon route

SUNDAY, 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Donnelly Street, from Edgerton Court to 5th Avenue
5th Avenue, from McDonald Street to Clayton Street
Clayton Street, from 5th Avenue to Lakeview Avenue
Lakeview Avenue, Clayton Street to Highland Street
Highland Street, from Lakeview Street to Limit Avenue
Limit Avenue, from Highland Street to Hillside Avenue
Hilltop Drive to West 11th Avenue
11th Avenue, from Hilltop Drive to Oakland Avenue
Oakland Avenue, from Avalon to Overlook
Old Eustis Road
Morningside Drive
Old Us-441
Lakeshore Drive

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here. Free subscriptions to the monthly issue of Mount Dora Buzz are available here.

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EUSTIS SKATE PARK OPENS THIS SATURDAY

12/10/2018

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All it took was some motivated young people to plant the seed. Fast forward two years (and tons of cement) and Eustis Skate Park is set to become a reality. The 9,000 square-foot skateboard facility located in Sunset Island Park will have its grand opening on Saturday, December 15.

The park is split into two featured areas for all levels of skateboarders and BMX riders including a street course with ramps, rails, and edges, along with a deep bowl that is on the other side of the course.

“Not only is this an opportunity for people to visit Eustis and enjoy the amenities we have, but improve the quality of life to the residents that already live here,” said City Manager Ron Neibert.

The grand opening will kick off with a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m. followed by local demonstrations, giveaways,and best trick contests. Trick contest registration will take place the morning of the grand opening and is open to anyone who would like to participate.

The City received a $100,000 grant from the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) and is also funded by the city through the penny sales tax, including the recreation impact fee funds. Team Pain Skate Parks was selected to build the park.

City leaders, along with Team Pain members and local skate shops, are scheduled to take part in the grand opening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the park located at 301 W. Ward Avenue. The event is free and open to the public.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here. Free subscriptions to the monthly issue of Mount Dora Buzz are available here.

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TAVARES' WOOTON WONDERLAND TO BE REPLACED

11/1/2018

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First it was the 30-year-old wooden castle in Mount Dora’s Gilbert Park.   Now another Lake County city has announced it will also be replacing its landmark playground. Tavares’ expansive wooden fort in downtown Wooton Park was built in 1985 and is at the end of its lifespan.

The City of Tavares’ goal is to build upon the success of the existing lakefront playground, dubbed Wooton Wonderland, and provide a safe, ADA compliant and fun children’s playground, according to John Drury, Tavares City Administrator.

Before any dates are set, The CIty of Tavares must first develop a budget, identify a source of funding and send out a Request for Proposals (RFP). Each proposal will provide creative features for the new playground that could include a seaplane, train and boat to play off the city’s current attractions.

Once a firm is selected, the process to rebuild the playground can begin, but demolition isn’t expected for a year or two, according to Drury.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here. To get the area's top stories in your inbox once a month, sign up for the free monthly issue of Mount Dora Buzz.

Get info on Gilbert Park's new playground