NOVEMBER, 2015

 ​-  After the elections, Mount Dora has a new mayor, Nick Girone, and three new city council members ready to get to work.  The new council members are Marc Crail, Mark Slaby and Laurie Tillet.  

- In case you haven't caught a glimpse, the area's new, festive Fun Bus is headed your way this month. This happy tour bus will connect Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis.  Read more

- If you've missed the horse-drawn carriages downtown, you're not alone.  No worries, a new carriage operator will be offering more rides now that the weather has cooled and tourist season is approaching.  To read more, click here.

- An article about  Mount Dora's secret catacombs, reportedly the largest private atomic bomb shelter in the country, uncovered an interesting peek into the city's Cold War history.  It's a fascinating read by local writer, Bill Sievert.  If you didn't have a chance to read it, click here.

-  A new coffee shop, Coffee Branch Cafe, is planning to open downtown in a couple of weeks. The 5th Avenue location is being opened by sisters that are Mount Dora High School alumni and have deep roots in the community.  Read more.

-  One of the treasures in Mount Dora often seems like a well-kept secret.  Mount Dora's Museum of Speed is an amazing trip back in time with an incredibily impressive car collection, as well as antiques that complement them. Visitors see everything from Shelby Cobra's, old 'vettes and Porches to a vintage ambulance and hearse. It's a great way to spend the afternoon.  See pics and read more.

-  Drum roll, please....the Best of Mount Dora, our readers' choice awards, were announced and celebrated everything from the best restaurants and bars to the best salons, musicians and neighborhoods.  Thank you to all of our readers that voted and congrats to all the winners.  Read more.

-  Locals have heard about ghost stories in Mount Dora for ages.  Are they true? It  appears many just may be after a two-part article featured several local experiences with friendly  'ghosts' in historic buildings.  Read more.

-  Downtown businesses will be getting creative this season for the Holiday Window competition.  This year there are three categories including most creative window, best use of lights and best restaurant decorations.  Stroll downtown between Nov. 27-30 and cast your vote for your favorite decorations.  Ballot will be available starting Nov. 27 at MountDoraBuzz.com  

-  The new convenience store, Green Apple Market, plans to open within the next two weeks in the Renaissance Building downtown.  The store will sell everything from snacks, over-the-counter medicine, ice, and magazines to coffee and cold drinks.

-  Mount Dora's artist community is growing and thriving. Professional photographers and artists  wishing to share images of their creative work with Mount Dora residents, can do so by contacting the Buzz here.  

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-  A new restaurant opened in the former home of ALS Landing on the waterfront.  Puddle Jumpers  on Ruby Street offers a selection of fried seafood, burgers, salad, pasta and items from the grill.

-  Although Tavares' landmark tavern,Irene's, was recently vandalized again, the community turned a hate-filled act into a positive by helping to paint over it.  Read more...

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-  The construction on the second phase of improvements to downtown's Ferran Park has begun.  The city is currently making enhancements to the waterfront park that will include beautification of the park's gateway entrances, landscaping, additional parking and sidewalks, storm water improvements, irrigation and a new LED monument sign.  A goal of Ferran Park's Master Plan is to showcase a thriving waterfront community.

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HERE'S THE 411 ON WHAT'S HOT LOCALLY..

- Cooler weather means more enjoyable time time in the garden.  Next weekend's Plant & Garden Fair in downtown Mount Dora is the place find unique plants.  (See photos)
-  If you love churros, the Latin cinnamon dessert, you'll love thechurros cupcakes from Cupcake Delights. (downtown Mount Dora)
-  For the Boho girls, the handmadeleather cuffs from Zen Cowgirl are a must accessory.  (Mount Dora)
- Tis the season for homemade pumpkin soup and Cody's on 4th is as good as it gets. (downtown,Mount Dora)
-  Mount Dora's own Jeff Whitfield just released an impressive new CD "Choices".    It will be available on iTunes and features all original music with jazz and blues influences. 
- The French Argan Body Butter sold at Noni at the Olive Branch is a luxurious addiction that you'll thank us for later.  Enjoy! (Mount Dora)
-  Love the bright vintage Pyrex bowls from Yesterday Today & Tomorrow (Tavares).
- To satisfy a beef craving the  Mediterannean Burger topped with an olive tapenade and goat cheese did the trick at 1884 Restaurant and Bar (Eustis) 

-  Find more fabulous local finds, plus hot deals here.

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​- This month's shout-outs go to the generous residents that helped the flood victims in South Carolina by donating supplies and completely filling a generously donated Jeep with the boxes of essentials. Read more.

​- Kudos also go to the local high school art students from Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis who created impressive entries in the Bra-Vo exhibit to help fund free or low-cost mammograms in Lake County.  Well done!

For events and news, click here
For more local articles click here.

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