News & entertainment for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

MARCH EDITION: News & events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

3/1/2023

Here comes spring! This month there's a lot on the calendar including the entertaining Planes, Tunes and BBQ in downtown Tavares that also features the annual Seaplane-A-Palooza events. Read more

It's also the last chance of Florida's festival season to take in a large craft festival. Mount Dora's Spring Festival of Arts & Crafts will feature approximately 250 crafters on the streets of its historic downtown. Read more

Take in beautiful afternoons on the Lake Dora waterfront watching the 70th annual Mount Dora Sailing Regatta. The scenic two-day event features over seventy boats in a myriad of classes. Read more

Tavares will also see some gorgeous boats on its lakefront during the annual Sunnyland Antique Boat Festival on March 23 through 26. The festival features hundreds of gorgeous antique wooden boats, nautical vendors and more. Watch Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page for more details and its Instagram for photos.

There is still time to register for Mount Dora's "Live It" ride on March 11 for bicyclists from novice to more advanced. The event consists of three rides for all levels. The easier ride also has a photo-scavenger hunt. Read more

March is a great time for a day trip to Blue Springs. The pristine State Park, beautiful on its own, is also the winter refuge to hundreds of West Indian manatees on chilly winter days. Cooler weather may soon be behind us, so if you've been meaning to go, now is the time. Read more

After a lengthy final public hearing and significant public opposition, the largest proposed development in Mount Dora and Lake County was voted down by Mount Dora City Council last month. The proposed development was located within Mount Dora's long-planned Wolf Branch innovation District. AMCO Development submitted a rezoning application that included a 350-foot tall building and then lowered it to 310 feet, then to 250 and lastly held firm at 197 feet. The current zoning allows up to 100 feet. The proposal also deviated from land uses currently allowed on the property.

This is the last month for graduating Mount Dora High School seniors to apply for the One Human Family Scholarship made possible with generous donations by members of the community and a partnership between the Triangle Connection and Mount Dora Buzz. Get application information here or from Mount Dora High School guidance counselors.

Scroll down for buzz on local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, and the Best of Mount Dora winners. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram for more local content.

Hot sauce and jerky lovers now have a new hot spot. Mount Dora Jerky Company opened its doors at 128 W. 4th Avenue downtown and will continue to grow its inventory of premium jerky and related pre-packaged food items.

Watch for the Mellow Mushroom on U.S. 441 in Mount Dora to open late this month or next month after several months of closure.

Scroll down for this month's featured events, hot topics at City Hall, stellar local businesses, new development buzz and the Best of Mount Dora.

The renewal of Cauley Lott Park in Mount Dora's Northeast Community was just completed. The impressive renovations include a new pavilion, shelters for the stage and one of the two basketball courts, a Ninja-style play area, a walking trail, increased green space, new restrooms, plus improved lighting and electricity for special events.

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall.

FEBRUARY EDITION: News & events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

2/1/2023

This month is all about the arts, not only in Mount Dora, but throughout Lake County. It kicks off with the nationally ranked Mount Dora Arts Festival featuring hundreds of the nation's best artists exhibiting and selling their work the streets of downtown. Read more. Then comes the annual "Off the Beaten Path" Art Tour in Lake County. The self-guided driving tour takes visitors into the working studios of some of the area's best artists. Read more

In honor of Black History Month, Lake County Museum of Art in downtown Tavares is hosting an impressive exhibit of Florida Highwaymen paintings. "Florida Highwaymen" is the collective name given to a group of African-American artists from Fort Pierce who began painting Florida landscapes in the late 1950s. The Highwaymen were prohibited from traditional art shows and exhibits, so they sold their paintings from the trunks of their cars and along Florida's main highways. The exhibit will feature works from some of the most notable Highwaymen. More info

In January, the first large development proposal in Mount Dora's long-planned Wolf Branch innovation District came before the city council for the first of two required public hearings and council votes. The proposal includes high-rise buildings ranging from 12 to 21 stories. The final public hearing and vote is tentatively scheduled for February 21. Here are 11 things to know about the project and the Innovation District.

Eustis' annual GeorgeFest kicks off with a Chili Cook Off on February 4, followed by a month of fun events, including a fishing tournament, Dog Jog, parade, carnival, and concerts later in the month. Read more

Once again dinosaurs have descended into Mount Dora. The impressive exhibit is on display at W.T. Bland Library. Read more

It's scholarship application season and 2023 graduates of Mount Dora High can apply for the One Human Family Scholarship made possible with generous donations by members of the community and a partnership between the Triangle Connection and Mount Dora Buzz. Get application information here or from Mount Dora High School guidance counselors.

The Jane Austen Fest returns to Mount Dora on February 10 through 12 to celebrate the 18th-century author with various events in downtown Mount Dora that include speakers, plus crafts and activities of the period.

The last epic treasure hunting of the season happens this month. Renningers' Antique Extravangza's eclectic vintage finds from vendors throughout the southeast will be on full display from February 17 to 19.

Scroll down for buzz on local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, and the Best of Mount Dora winners. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram for more local content.

Last month a sprawling new sports bar and grill opened in Eustis, providing local fans with the perfect spot to watch the Super Bowl and other big games. Read more

At the end of December, the landmark WIndsor Rose Tea Room closed its doors due to the well-deserved retirement of its long-time owners, Paul and Marsha Goodale. Now a new French restaurant is preparing to open in its cozy downtown location. Read more

Scroll down for this month's featured events, hot topics at City Hall, stellar local businesses, new development buzz and the Best of Mount Dora.

Differing itself from other municipalities in Lake County, the City of Mount Dora recently announced it would no longer allow public comments on any of its social media accounts, including those of its police and fire departments, as well as its main government page. Read more. Readers' comments are still welcome on Mount Dora Buzz's social media and other accounts not affiliated to the city's government.

The second required public hearing and City Council vote are expected in the coming weeks for the proposed high-rise development in the Mount Dora Innovation District on the eastern edge of the city. Read more. The date will be posted on Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page once it becomes available.

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

JANUARY EDITION: News & events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

1/1/2023

Happy New Year! The holidays are behind us, but Mount Dora is still feeling festive. Downtown's millions of twinkling lights are expected to remain up through the end of January, so there's still more time to walk among the lights in Donnelly Park and along the lakefront.

In the continued quest for even more festive lights, make the quick 25-minute trip to the impressive Asian Lantern Festival that continues through January 15. The family-friendly event has innovative displays spread across a 3/4-mile walking path. Read more

Last month Mount Dora City Council cleared the way for a new residential and commercial development on its eastern edge. Vista Hills development will consist of apartments, retail and office space. Read more

Last month Mount Dora Buzz announced its Person of the Year for 2022. The recognition goes to an altruistic resident who makes positive and selfless contributions to the community. The impressive 2022 recipient more than deserves the accolade. Read more

Central Florida cycling enthusiasts and local residents received a setback in November when CSX opted not to sell the railway corridor needed for the planned Tav-Dora Trail project. Other options are being pursued. Read more

This month Renningers' Antique Extravangza returns to the rolling hills of Mount Dora with eclectic vintage finds for everyone's taste. The sprawling event features hundreds of vendors from the southeast and takes place on January 20-23.

Last month former Mount Dora Police Chief Brett Meade filed a Whistleblower lawsuit against the City. You can read more and download a copy of the complaint here.

Scroll down for buzz on local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, and the Best of Mount Dora winners. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram for updates on local events, news and more.

Shoppers got a sneak peek at downtown's newest retailer in December. Mount Dora Jerky Company is closing for a few weeks this month to complete its buildout in the former location of Barrel of Books & Games. The store will feature a wide selection of fresh jerky flavors, plus other pre-packaged snacks. The Buzz tried several varieties of the jerky and all were moist and delicious! Mount Dora Jerky Company is the sister-store to downtown's Mount Dora Olive Oil Company.

Watch for the new location of Magic Tea Market to open on U.S. Highway 441 near Office Depot sometime later this month. In addition to its popular crafted boba teas, this location across from Walmart will feature house-made mochi donuts in various flavors and prepackaged Asian snacks.

Scroll down for this month's featured events, hot topics at City Hall, stellar local businesses, new development buzz and the Best of Mount Dora.

The greatly-needed traffic signal at the intersection of State Road 44 and Lakes of Mount Dora Boulevard went live last month after years of talks between City Staff and Florida Department of Transportation. The much-needed traffic light at the intersection of State Road 44 and Britt Road is expected to be installed in the near future.

Construction of Mount Dora's newest fire station is expected to be completed by March. The new station will provide improved service for the western portion of the city.

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram for more local info.

DECEMBER EDITION: News & events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

12/1/2022

From thousands of twinkling lights to parades and holiday festivities, December is the month that Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis really shine.
Downtown Eustis continues the holiday magic after its Light Up with 10 minutes of snowfall every hour on each Friday night from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. through the end of December.

Mount Dora, arguably the best little Christmas town in Florida, is once again covered in twinkling lights and holiday decorations, as its shops are overflowing with unique items for discerning holiday shoppers. On December 2 the shopping opportunities are endless as the city's Christmas Walk and Art in the Arbor converge that evening. Find the schedule of this year's local holiday events, here

Santa will once again tour Mount Dora neighborhoods on December 6-8. Watch Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page for the route once it becomes available. December 10 will feature Grinch Fest and Snow in the Park in two different parks in Mount Dora, so families can plan a full day of festivities.

'Tis the season of giving and the community has stepped up to organize the Mount Dora Community Toy Drive to help bring smiles to local kids in need this holiday season. Anyone able to donate new and unwrapped toys can do so at these convenient locations. All toys will go directly to kids in need in our local community.

Save some party time for New Year's Eve in Mount Dora. The tradition continues with a street party at Sunset Park and fireworks at midnight. Reservations are available at many downtown restaurants for dinner ahead of the revelry.

Scroll down for buzz on local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, and the Best of Mount Dora winners. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram for updates on local events, news and more.

After three years in the making, Lake Eustis Waterfront Grille finally opened last month. We paid a few visits to the new two-story restaurant and shared our experiences. Read more

There's no such thing as too much a good thing and that applies to craveworthy things, too. The destination eatery, Claire's Creperie, is expanding its footprint in downtown Mount Dora to offer more of its delicious savory and dessert crepes. Read more

A big shout-out goes to Maggie's Attic, downtown's landmark wine bar and meeting place, that just celebrated 20 years in Mount Dora. Kudos also go to Walk in the Woods, the outdoor apparel store, which celebrated its 17th anniversary on Fifth Avenue downtown. Cheers to both local businesses for many more prosperous years ahead!

Julianne's Coastal Cottage, a longtime Mount Dora store, changed hands last month. We wish Julie Pointer all the best in her new Midwestern home. If you're downtown, pop into the 4th Avenue store and stay "hi" to the new owner.

Scroll down for this month's featured events, hot topics at City Hall, stellar local businesses, new development buzz and the Best of Mount Dora.

Congratulations to Mount Dora's new City Council Member, Dennis Dawson. He will be representing District Three which includes neighborhoods around Lake Gertrude and Eudora Road.

On Election Day, Mount Dora voters overwhelmingly passed the building height charter amendment which reinforces the existing building height limit of 35 feet in the Historic District and 25 feet high within 100 feet of the lakefront. 68.7% of voters voted "yes."

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall.

NOVEMBER EDITION: News & events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

11/1/2022

Thanksgiving is November 24 and the weekend following the holiday is when local cities will turn on their twinkling lights. Light Up Eustis will be November 25 followed by Light Up Mount Dora on November 26. This year Mount Dora brings a new twist to its annual event. Learn more

There's still time to take in some of the local Fall festivals and farm activities for kids and adults. Get the complete roundup of the best local Fall events here. To see the schedule of this year's local holiday events, click here.

Holiday shopping kicks off with Art in the Arbor on November 4 in downtown Mount Dora. The fun event combines talented local painters, potters and jewelry designers selling their art, great wine, craft brews and live music in the courtyard at Maggie's Attic at 237 W. Alexander Street from 6-8 p.m.

November 8th is Election Day. A city charter amendment preserving building heights is on the ballot in Mount Dora. Comments on social media from both sides of the issue, as well as a PAC-sponsored forum in the Community Building last month, have presented a lot of dubious and confusing information to voters. Here are 14 important things to know about the referendum, as well as a copy of the proposed amendment, map of the pertinent area and other details. Read more

Residents that live in Mount Dora's District 3 will also elect a new City Council representative on election day. Lake County's early voting continues through November 5. If you need to find your Election Day polling place, click here.

Gardeners are more than ready for the cooler temps and the Mount Dora Plant & Garden Fair on November 12 and 13. The event offers everything anyone needs for their garden except green thumbs. Read more

If gardening isn't your thing, you're bound to find something of interest at the sprawling Antique Extravangza this month. This is the first of three "Extravos" of the season, so treasure hunters are anxious to uncover the event's many unique finds. Read more

'Tis the season of giving and the community has stepped up to organize the Mount Dora Community Toy Drive to help bring smiles to local kids in need this holiday season. Anyone able to donate new and unwrapped toys can do so at these convenient locations. All toys will go directly to kids in need in our local community.

Last month, Lake County Commission voted to approve Mount Dora Groves, a new development on parcels of land on both sides of U.S. 441 spanning from The Country Club of Mount Dora to the Loch Leven shopping center. The planned mixed-use development has 1,068 residential units and 150,000 square feet of commercial space.

Pick up a copy of the new Mount Dora Cookbook with 100% of the proceeds going to Mount Dora High School's stadium improvement project. The book features local recipes by Pisces Rising, Mount Dora Buzz and several familiar local residents. The book, available at Barrel of Books & Games, makes a great stocking stuffer and supports a good cause.

Scroll down for buzz on local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, and the Best of Mount Dora winners. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Twitter for updates on local events and breaking news.

Soon Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis will get a new restaurant and sports bar for dining and game watching. Miller's Ale House has proposed to build a location near the border of all three cities. Read more.

Watch Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page for a sneak peek of the food and ambiance at the new Lake Eustis Waterfront Grille.

Scroll down for this month's featured events, hot topics at City Hall, stellar local businesses, new development buzz and the Best of Mount Dora.

Mount Dora City Council voted in October to keep the existing plan for Mount Dora Fire Department to move into its new station #35 on S.R. 19 and keep its Donnelly Street Station $34.

After Lake County Commission voted to approve the northern portion of the proposed new Mount Dora Groves development last month, Mount Dora Buzz published the Lake County ordinance that outlines the requirements of the project. The ordinance includes the developer's concessions made to the City of Mount Dora. Read more

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall.

OCTOBER EDITION: News & Events for Mount Dora, Tavares &Eustis

10/1/2022

Pumpkin season is here! Whether searching for the perfect pumpkin or a fun photo op, find the list of festive local pumpkin patches to visit this season here.

The festival season has kicked off, so get ready for tons of Fall festivals and lots of Halloween fun for kids and adults. Get the complete round-up of the best local Fall events here.

Great live music comes to Tavares with the return of Rocktober Fest on October 22 along with Monster Splash. The same weekend the nationally ranked Mount Dora Craft Fair makes its return to downtown. Read more

Yes? No? It's all but impossible to miss the signs around downtown Mount Dora about the proposed charter amendment on the November ballot regarding building heights. From the very basics to more detailed information, here are 13 things to know about the referendum. Read more

One of the best seasonal activities has reopened for the season. Long & Scott Corn Maze Adventure features a challenging corn maze and plenty of other fun daytime and nighttime activities. Read more

Walk and learn! The Mount Dora Historical Society will host its second annual Historic Walking Tour on October 15. The event starts at the parking lot across from First United Methodist Church on 5th Avenue at 10 a.m. More information can be found here.

Mount Dora Groves, a proposed large new development on the orange groves at U.S. 441 near Country Club of Mount Dora, is being considered by the Lake County Commission at a public meeting October 11. The proposed development is residential and commercial. Read more. The meeting is at 9 a.m. at 315 W. Main Street in downtown Tavares.

A collection of three short films, Midnight Montage: Book of Consequences, recently debuted in Mount Dora. The series of 3 short, dark films featured some locally shot scenes, as well as a handful of Lake County residents as actors. The small-budget film may eventually be available for rent on Amazon.

Scroll down for buzz on local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, and the Best of Mount Dora winners. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Twitter for updates on local events and breaking news.

A new store, The Outpost, opened in downtown Mount Dora on 4th Avenue and sells a huge variety of Life is Good merchandise. The shop is the sister store to Walk in the Woods on 5th Avenue.

Carnivores rejoice! Mount Dora Jerky Company will be opening soon in the former home of Barrel of Books and Games on 4th Avenue in downtown. The unique shop is the sister store to Mount Dora Olive Oil Company and will offer a variety of quality jerky and related products.

The area is getting a couple of new restaurants soon. It's been a long time coming, but Lake Eustis Waterfront Grille is getting closer to an opening. The casual eatery with a view of the marina and the lake is expected to open later this month. Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz on Facebook and Instagram for more information when it's available. A new sushi restaurant is in the works at the Stoneybrooke Publix shopping center. Watch Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram for more information as it becomes available on these new restaurants and others.

One of Tavares' eateries, Buster Tubbs, just relaunched with a new menu. The small downtown restaurant is now called Buster Tubbs Taste of Louisiana after teaming up with Pernell’s Seasoning, a regional spice blend company.

Scroll down for this month's events, hot topics at City Hall, stellar local businesses, new development buzz and the Best of Mount Dora.

Mount Dora City Manager Patrick Comiskey proposed consolidating the Fire Department into a single location on Limit Avenue, as part of a proposed re-shuffling of city resources. Mount Dora Fire Fighters Union had significant public safety concerns about the proposal. Read more For now, Comiskey appears to be holding off on his proposed plan.

There's good news about taxes! Mount Dora City Council voted to keep the City's tax millage rate at 5.9603 mills while reducing the Fire Assessment Fee on houses from $219 to $209.

Mount Dora made changes to some of its annual holiday events this year. The long tradition of Mount Dora Police Department organizing popular community events like Stuff the Cruiser, the Northeast Christmas Party, the Santa Tour and Shop with a Cop has ended, but not at the behest of MDPD. Some of the events may be picked up by other city staff, but City Manager Patrick Comiskey didn’t respond to repeated questions by Mount Dora Buzz about the changes.

Mount Dora Groves, a proposed large new development on the orange groves at U.S. 441 near Country Club of Mount Dora, is being considered by the Lake County Commission at a public meeting October 11. The proposed development is residential and commercial. Read more. The meeting is at 9 a.m. at 315 W. Main Street in downtown Tavares.

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall.

Besides the expected, the Sears Roebuck catalog also offered the unexpected: houses! Downtown Mount Dora still has some of these historic homes standing. Read more

As a historic Central Florida town, Mount Dora has an interesting past. To read a timeline of its history and related articles, click here.

The above is a paid political advertisement.

SEPTEMBER EDITION: News & events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

9/1/2022

As the dog days of summer slowly wind down, more events are starting to pop up. Watch for two new events this month. Craft Fest in the Park is on September 24 in Gilbert Park and features crafters, food and more. Uptown Saturday Night is a new street festival that happens on the third Saturday of every month on Highland Street and Liberty Avenue with food, music and more. Watch Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram for more details as the events approach.

September 30th brings the return of Art in the Arbor, the monthly downtown art and social event in the courtyard at Maggie's Attic. The friendly and laid back event is always subject to good weather, so check the radar before heading out.

A fun new tour and attraction is coming to Mount Dora when unique carriage rides return to downtown. The posh carriages are expected to start operations once the City Council approves an ordinance that permits the vehicles on certain Mount Dora streets. Read more

Mount Dora History Museum will waive admission on Saturday, September 17 as part of Smithsonian magazine’s 18th annual Museum Day. Contact the museum for times and more details.

There's still time to take in the exceptional art exhibit titled Elusiveness and Illusion, the impressive collection of art created by Spencer Pettit that is currently on display at Mount Dora Center for the Arts. Pettit was a prominent Florida artist and beloved Mount Dora resident who passed away earlier this year.

For this year's Mount Dora municipal election, three city council seats were up for grabs. Two of the races were uncontested, so current Councilmembers Doug Bryant and Cal Rolfson will continue their service to the city. Residents Mark Slaby and Dennis Dawson have thrown their hats in the ring for District 3 which includes western Mount Dora, the Lake Gertrude area and parts of downtown. Voters will decide that race during the November 8 general election. Also on the ballot will be the grassroots charter amendment referendum to protect current downtown building height limits.

Scroll down for buzz on local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, and the Best of Mount Dora winners. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Twitter for updates on local events and breaking news.

Downtown Eustis is getting a new seafood restaurant. Backfin, formerly Gators in Umatilla, is opening in the former space of CJ's Seafood.

Yada Yada Pottery moved into its new and larger digs in August. The hybrid space is part pottery studio and part artisan gift store. Read more. Next door a small boutique, Vyntage Goods, opened with a very limited selection of vintage clothing and housewares.

After two years in the making, Shadrach's Fiery Furnace, an outdoor pizza kitchen, was finally able to start cooking up its wood-fired pizzas in downtown Mount Dora. Read more

The last few weeks had several new businesses opening in Mount Dora. Maw's Mountain Moonshine opened last month for tastings and selling their family-made shine. Located in the historic Sears building on Fourth Avenue, the unique business also whips up cocktails using their moonshine. Our hands-down favorite is the Peaches & Cream libation.

Watch for big changes coming to Papilio in downtown Mount Dora this month. The nature-themed shop on Donnelly Street will be adding a cozy wine and beer bar, plus Jewelry by TFC just finished its new expansion project inside the shop.

Mount Dora Buzz gets around, so if you want to see more about the area's awesome eateries and libations, just follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram.

Scroll down for this month's events, hot topics at City Hall, stellar local businesses, new development buzz and the Best of Mount Dora.

Local Dining Guide

Mount Dora Council will vote on the new city budget and tax millage rate this month. At this point it appears Mount Dora will keep the tax millage rate at 5.9603 mills while reducing the Fire Assessment Fee on houses from $219. to $209. Anyone interested can attend the public hearings on the budget at City Hall this month.

The resurfacing of the pickleball courts at Donnelly Park is complete, so grab your paddle and head downtown.

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall. Follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram and Twitter for more local info.

AUGUST EDITION: News & events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

8/1/2022

A new event is slated in uptown Mount Dora on August 20. Uptown Saturday Night will highlight an area of the city often overlooked by resident and entrepreneurs. Read more

The proposed Tav-Dora Trail, a bike and pedestrian trail that would connect downtown Mount Dora and downtown Tavares to each other, as well as to a larger Florida trail system, is once again on the forefront. The owners of the rail-bed property have agreed to sell the portion of railbed from Sorrento to Tavares for $18,500,000. If Lake County agrees to the terms of the deal, the County, along with the Cities of Mount Dora and Tavares, will have to commit an additional $5 million to buy out the current lease of the rail bed. The three local governments have jointly applied for a grant to help fund a portion of the project. If you have an opinion on the trail, include it in the monthly Buzz Poll here.
Florida's hurricane season typically sees the most activity occur between mid-August and mid-October. Here's the list of essential, yet uncommon, 16 hurricane hacks to get you through such a storm and its aftermath. Read more

Lake County Schools (LCS) resume August 10. In an effort to keep local parents informed, Mount Dora Buzz compiled a list of the eight things parents should know about Mount Dora school safety, and included an incident comparison chart of all LCS middle schools, as well as Mount Dora High School. Read more Meanwhile, in other LCS news, Mount Dora High School achieved a significant accomplishment last month when it became the top-rated high school in all of Lake County! Way to go, Hurricanes!

In case you missed the Buzz's article in July, Wooton Wonderland, the wooden playground in downtown Tavares' Wooton Park, is currently closed during construction of a new playground. You can read the article and see the renderings here. Meanwhile, in Mount Dora, construction has begun on the improvements to Cauley Lott Park. The project is expected to take four to five months.

Scroll down for buzz on local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, and the Best of Mount Dora winners. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Twitter for updates on local events and breaking news.

Mount Dora's newest eatery and watering hole has opened to rave reviews. The steak tacos, beet salad and and berry empanada dessert were our faves at Eden Abbey Brewing Community.

A new restaurant featuring traditional American fare opened in downtown Eustis. The Brick and Barrel Kitchen on Magnolia also has a full bar and nightly happy hour. Read more

Speaking of barrels...downtown Mount Dora's popular book store, Barrel of Books & Games, is expanding. The independent retailer will be moving nearby and will triple its current size. Read more

Scroll down for this month's events, hot topics at City Hall, stellar local businesses, new development buzz and the Best of Mount Dora.

Local Dining Guide

Local Shopping Guide

The City of Mount Dora is operating without key permanent management during the current hurricane season. These storms can wreak havoc on city roads, utilities, emergency services and infrastructure, so hurricane season arguably may not be the time for any Florida city to be without them. Read more

Soon City of Mount Dora residents will receive their TRIM Notice from the Tax Collector. The TRIM will show a higher 6.1000 millage rate. However, the final rate will be lower, barring a costly unexpected disaster, like a hurricane. The 2022-2023 fiscal year starts October 1 and the current millage of 5.9603 could be adopted again by the time the budget is finalized.

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall.

It's been a local hot topic for years -- converting the railroad bed to a bike trail. Let your opinion be known whether you support a bike trail that would connect Mount Dora and Tavares to a longer Central Florida trail system. Take the two-question Buzz Poll here.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram and Twitter for more local info.

JULY EDITION: News & events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

7/1/2022

It's summer in Florida and the temps are sweltering, but our local area has just what you need to cool off. Make time to take a refreshing dip in the waters of the many nearby natural springs. Here's a list of the seven best.

It's that time of year again! Mount Dora residents interested in giving back to their community can now throw their hats into the ring to serve on the City Council. In recent years, many council seats have gone unopposed, so now is a great time to get involved and give back. Here's list of ten quick things to know to when considering a run for Mount Dora City Council and a link to the paperwork to file. Read more

Bring on the parties! Independence Day celebrations are this weekend. As is the local tradition, the cities of Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis spread the festivities over 3 days so residents can enjoy all of the celebrations and fireworks. First up is Eustis with its celebration in Ferran Park on July 1. Get the complete schedule of events here. Next is Freedom on the Waterfront in Mount Dora and you can get details on that event here. The holiday weekend's festivities wrap up with the July 4 activities in downtown Tavares with a parade, live music and fireworks. Get the schedule of events here.

Interested in downtown Mount Dora's parking situation? Scroll down for the monthly Buzz Poll results on that topic.

Mount Dora will be host to a Down the Hill Soap Box Derby at the end of July. You can take in a little old-school fun at Evans Park on July 30 from 10am to 4pm.

Scroll down for buzz on local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, this month's history article and the Best of Mount Dora winners. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Twitter for updates on local events and breaking news.

Tavares has a cool new watering hole The recent opening of The Argonaut Bar & Lounge has provided a fun new experience in the heart of downtown. Read more

Yada Yada Pottery is expected to move in August from its current second floor location on Donnelly Street to a larger and more accessible location at 133 E. 5th Avenue where it will continue to offer its popular ceramics classes, pottery painting, macrame classes, and artisan gift shop.

The Dona Vista Market, a community marketplace near Eustis, opened a new art gallery on weekends featuring local artists.

C.J. Seafood Company in downtown Eustis closed in June, according to its Facebook page. A "for rent" sign was placed in the large space, so stay tuned for what's next. Meanwhile, under new ownership, Magnolia Wine Bar, also in downtown Eustis, has updated its offerings and shortened its name to just Magnolia.

Scroll down for this month's events, hot topics at City Hall, stellar local businesses, new development buzz and the Best of Mount Dora.

It's hardly a secret that downtown parking has long been a hot topic in Mount Dora. Last month's informal Buzz Poll of readers sought input about the area's parking. Find the poll results here

A traffic light at the intersection of Lakes of Mount Dora Blvd. and SR 44 has been approved by FDOT and design work has begun. The State agency is streamlining the multi-year process into 6 to 8 months due to safety concerns and hopes that the traffic signal will be installed shortly after the new signal at Britt Road and SR 44.

Last month, Mount Dora's popular Police Chief resigned and his official last day was June 10. Here is a timeline of events gleaned from public records that led up to the Chief's voluntary departure. Interim Police Chief Gibson now brings his extensive experience to run the department.

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall.

JUNE EDITION: News & events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

6/1/2022

Drum roll, please! Readers cast their ballots and we've got the winners of the 2022 Best of Mount Dora awards. Just to keep things interesting, we also gave a shout-out to the runners-up! See the winners here

Although Mount Dora is known for its quaint downtown, it's also home to an abundance of wildlife. It's not uncommon for residents to spot injured animals, but it's difficult to know what to do. Here's a list of rescues and rehabilitators for everything from birds and tortoises to mammals. Read more

Father's Day is just around the corner and we've put together a fun list of local things to do with Dad from outdoor outings to restaurants he'll love. Read more

One of Mount Dora's outdoor gems is getting some exciting additions. Mount Dora Mountain Bike Trails will soon have new amenities for all ages of riders. Read more

Although much attention has recently been given to maintaining building heights in downtown Mount Dora in order to preserve its charm, there is another issue that has already changed that area's character, but hasn't received the attention. Read more

Temps are heating up, but Mount Dora and Tavares are ready to cool you and the kids off. Mount Dora's public pool and Tavares' Splash Pad will resume their summer hours on June 6. Read more

Interested in improving downtown Mount Dora parking? Scroll down for the monthly Buzz Poll questions on that topic.

Kudos to 2022 Mount Dora High grad Joseph Bostwick who recently wrote a book about growing up watching his grandmother battle Alzheimer's Disease. The young author of "A Rotten Mind" will have a book signing on June 4th at Barrel of Books & Games at 128 W. 4th Avenue in Mount Dora from 1-3pm.

Scroll down for buzz on local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, this month's history article and the Best of Mount Dora winners. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Twitter for updates on local events and breaking news.

This month local coffee lovers and carnivores get a whole lot happier. Foxtail Coffee will soon open its second location in Mount Dora and offer a variety of specialty coffees and teas. Read more Meanwhile, Longhorn Steakhouse submitted a preliminary proposal to the City of Mount Dora for a location at 17020 U.S. 441 in front of Walmart next to the bank. Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram for updates.

Mount Dora is about to get even more of a good thing! In order to expand its offerings, watch for Walk in the Woods, the popular outdoor apparel store, to open a second location downtown soon next to Checkered Moon on 4th Avenue.

Sadly, The Cellar Door Wine Bar, the friendly and cozy watering hole on Donnelly Street, closed on May 30. The small bar was located inside Papilio and also featured a convenient walk-up counter for passersby. We wish Cary and Devon the very best in their next adventure.

Downtown Eustis lost one if its popular bars and eateries last month when Tillie's Tavern permanently closed the doors of their large new space. Stay tuned for updates of what will eventually fill that historic building on Magnolia Street.

Scroll down for the monthly Buzz Poll question which is about downtown parking. Also scroll for local government buzz, stellar local businesses, local development buzz and the Best of Mount Dora.

What are your thoughts about improving parking and building a parking structure in Mount Dora? Click here for the poll and learn the results in next month's edition.

Last month's poll results: Readers overwhelmingly selected Trader Joe's, Costco and HomeGoods as the national retailers they would like to see open a location on U.S. 441 in Mount Dora.

Mount Dora City Council will vote on the second reading of placing an ordinance preserving downtown building heights on the ballot for voters to decide this November.

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall.

For a small town, Mount Dora's W.T. Bland Library is an impressive place for books and special programs, but that wasn't always the case. Learn about the library's modest beginnings here.