News & entertainment for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

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.

Click here for development projects in the area.

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

5/1/2022

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Don't miss the last big Mount Dora event of the season on May 7 when the spring Craft Show comes to shady Gilbert Park. The one-day event hosted by Specialty Pop-Events features crafters, artists, food and other vendors under the oaks from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

It's that time of year again to show your favorite local businesses some big love by voting in the Best of Mount Dora Awards. The annual awards give bragging rights to all types of businesses including restaurants, bars, shops and more. Get your ballot here.

Spring has sprung and it's hard not to miss to the gorgeous wildflowers blanketing local fields and roadsides. If you're looking for the best spots to enjoy the blooms, here's a list of nearby country roads to drive to enjoy the colorful season. Read more. Another great place to see wildflowers right now is the Noonan Butterfly Garden at the W.T. Bland Library in Mount Dora.

As the U-pick blueberry season winds down later in May, the local blackberry season is just heating up at local farms. That berry U-pick season is open at Bear Tracks Blackberry Farm in Eustis which sells blackberries for $5 per pound on Tuesdays through Thursdays and weekends at $6 per pound. Blue Bayou Farms in Yalaha sells them them for $6 per pound daily.

Some new apartments may soon be available in Mount Dora. Parkview Apartments is a proposed project on Grandview Street on the vacant land across from Gilbert park (read more) and Bristol Park Apartments with 300 units has been proposed off U.S. 441.

Don't forget to celebrate Mom on Mother's Day on May 8. To help plan the perfect day, here's a cheat sheet on some of the best local Mother's Day outings and restaurants. Read more

This month Mount Dora Buzz is adding two new regular features in its monthly editions. The first is a Buzz Poll, a monthly survey question on hot local topics. The second new feature is the "Development Buzz" section to fill you in on interesting commercial and residential projects that have been proposed. You'll find both of these features further down in this edition.

Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Twitter for updates on local events and breaking news. 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

Last October a fire engulfed the Segway store in Mount Dora. The extensive repairs to the building are nearing completion, so the business should be returning to its original downtown digs soon.

As promised, downtown Mount Dora's Edge Coffee reopened in April. The new owners are keeping the same name and vibe, but did add a cool interior wall mural.

After an extensive buildout, Wave Asian Bistro finally moved into its new location last month. The sushi restaurant didn't move far. Its new space is on the ground floor of the same building with its entrance along the Royellou Lane near 3rd Avenue.

There's no such thing as too much of a good thing. Magic Tea Market, the popular boba tea shop and Asian snack market in downtown Mount Dora is planning to open a second location on U.S. 441 near Panera Bread and Office Depot this summer.

Watch for Maw's Mountain Moonshine to open on the corner of Alexander Street and 4th Avenue in downtown Mount Dora after the buildout is complete. Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram for more details.

To help keep everyone up to speed on what new developments and companies may be coming to the area, Mount Dora Buzz will begin featuring a list of proposed developments submitted to the City for review. Just scroll down to the "Development Buzz" section.

Scroll down for the new monthly poll question and local government buzz, stellar local businesses, local development buzz and the Best of Mount Dora.

Tired of travelling to some of your favorite national stores? Tell us what retailers you would like to open a location in Mount Dora on U.S. 441. We'll let the winning companies know and publish the results on Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook. Click here for the poll.

Mount Dora City staff and the City Council are hopeful about being awarded a major grant to start the Tav-Dora Trail project that would connect Mount Dora and Tavares to a larger trail system. The project would be funded by the grant and through a partnership with Lake County, Mount Dora and Tavares. The trail is projected to be an economic driver for both cities. The parties expect to know about the grant decision in October.

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

Here's a few interesting projects that are either pending review from Mount Dora's Development Review Committee or received preliminary approval in time for Mount Dora Buzz's publication deadline. A longer list of relevant development projects can be found here:

COMMERCIAL PROJECTS APPROVED:
Mount Dora Center for the Arts / 348 Royellou Ln.
Offices at Mount Dora / 18660 US Hwy. 441
Gaslight Building / 231 N. Baker St.

COMMERCIAL PROJECTS PENDING OR REQUIRING RESUBMITTAL:
Culvers / 18996 US Hwy 441

As projects advance through multi-approval process, watch Mount Dora Buzz's website for more in-depth articles on some of the newsworthy developments. Find more local development projects listed here.

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

4/1/2022

This month brings the return of Mount Dora's Vintage Garden Show and ripe local blueberries. However, the annual Planes Trains & BBQ scheduled for downtown Tavares with two days of great food, an air show, and lively country music concerts has been postponed due to forecasted inclement weather. Read more

The annual Vintage Garden Show returns to Mount Dora with everything green thumbs need to get inspired to plant their gardens or decorate them. Read more. Meanwhile, to protect your landscaping, be on the lookout for the young Eastern Lubbers that are now hatching. They will decimate your plants once the ravenous insects mature. Read more

Get ready, berry lovers! Lake County's local blueberry season just kicked off and continues into May. Don't put off a fun day outdoors picking fresh blueberries while the temperatures are perfect. Here's a list of the top three local U-pick blueberry farms to visit. Read more

Kudos to the Mount Dora businesses, residents and visitors who donated over $2,000 to World Central Kitchen to help feed Ukrainian refugees. If you're interested, you can help, too. Get more info

One of the many benefits of small-town family life happens this month in Mount Dora with the return of its annual community Easter Egg Hunt at W.T. Bland Library. Kids of all ages and abilities are invited to take part and meet the Easter Bunny and get a free book. Read more

After a recommendation from the City's Building Advisory Committee, created late last year, Mount Dora City Council is expected to discuss downtown building heights, as well as whether to put the issue before voters this November. The discussion is expected to happen at its upcoming public meeting on April 5 at City Hall at 6 p.m.

Scroll down for new local eateries, plus local Government Buzz, this month's history article and the Best of Mount Dora winners.

A fabulous new Mexican restaurant, La Perla Tapatia, opened in Eustis in April. Some of its authentic yet uncommon offerings distinguish it from the ubiquitous TexMex spots. Read more

Don't panic if you noticed Mount Dora's Starbucks doors were locked. It's a temporary closure for its remodeling, so your double latte will be available again soon.

Visitors to downtown Eustis are in for a new treat. Mystic Ice Cream recently introduced its creamy, "spiked"' ice cream to the area when it opened recently. The new shop typically offers 32 handmade flavors, some with booze and some without. Read more

A new Culver's has been proposed for vacant land on U.S. 441 in Mount Dora. The proposal is currently in the City's development review process. The Wisconsin-based burger chain is known for its frozen custard in addition to its popular butter burgers, cheese curds and sandwiches. Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page for updates.

Scroll down for this month's shout-out, local Government Buzz, this month's history article, stellar local businesses and the Best of Mount Dora winners.

Last month, Mount Dora City Council began discussing the downtown parking shortage again and is looking at short-term and long-term solutions including adding some new on-street parking spaces in the downtown core.

Lake Country School Board is seeking a referendum on the November ballot to ask voters to approve the continuation of a 0.75 mill tax that has been levied since 2019 to enhance school safety at public schools. Read more

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

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

3/1/2022

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From a kayakathon and vintage boat show, to a sailing regatta, this is the month that brings lots of fun on the water to Lake Dora.

Tavares kicks off the aquatic activities with the Vintage Boat Spring Regatta on March 19 and the drool-worthy Sunnyland Vintage Boat Festival on the last weekend of the month (read more). That same weekend, Mount Dora Sailing Regatta will take place with hundreds of sailboats gracing the water. Read more

At long last Mount Dora has officially selected a location for the overdue Northeast Community Resource Center. The recreation and resource facility will be located on the corner of Highland Street and Lincoln Avenue and will be walking distance for high school and middle school students.

Anyone looking for some high-energy retro entertainment will find it when Kashmir, a leading Led Zeppelin tribute band, takes the stage in downtown Mount Dora for a concert featuring the original band's classic rock hits and an electrifying show. More info

This month 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. Read more

On March 19 & 20, Mount Dora will host its annual Spring Festival featuring hundreds of crafters and vendors lining the streets of historic downtown.

The occasional loud booms and rattling of local windows caused by blasts at the Navy's bombing range in the Ocala National Forest can catch Mount Dora residents off guard. Here are 10 things to know about the active Pinecastle Bombing Range. Read more

Got shoes? Mount Dora has another drop-off location for Sole4Souls, the non-profit organization that puts unwanted shoes to good use, whether as disaster relief, or for homeless children or for those in need in the U.S. and developing countries. Local folks can now also drop off shoes in the donation box at the register inside Barrel of Books and Games at 128 W. 4th Avenue open 12-4pm daily.

Scroll down for new local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, this month's history article and the Best of Mount Dora winners.

It's been a long time coming, but Shadrach's Fiery Furnace Pizza Company is making progress on its downtown Mount Dora location. Its outdoor eatery still isn't expected to open for a couple of months at the Donnelly Street site between 4th and 3rd Avenues. The pizza company is popular in Central Florida for its wood-fired pizzas and its new location will also offer appetizers, beer, wine, special events and more. Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram for an opening date.

Speaking of pizza....downtown Eustis now has its own new Italian restaurant, Roma Pizza, which also dishes out pasta entrees, subs, wings and more. It's located at 1 N. Eustis Street behind City Hall and replaced Nalan Sultan, the delicious and authentic Turkish restaurant.

The Buzz is saddened to report the temporary closing of Edge Coffee downtown. The coffee house has become a popular hangout for locals due to its stellar cups of joe and welcoming atmosphere. The coffee-loving owners are expected to announce some big changes in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page for updates.

On March 7, Mount Dora City Council will have a public work session that includes addressing the City's parking situation. It was scheduled to be held last month, but that meeting ran long, so it was rescheduled to this month.

Lake County will be holding its local Household Hazardous Waste pickup on March 17 at Mount Dora's Walmart on U.S. 441. Lake County residents can drop off their leftover paint, pesticides, fluorescent lamps, and other items. Commercial drop off is not permitted at this event.

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