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

After an extensive restoration effort that spanned several years and cost a few million dollars, the historic Sydonie Mansion near Mount Dora is now offering public tours of its impressive interior and sprawling lakefront grounds. The tours will help raise money for the estate's maintenance and further restoration. Read more

It's that time of year again! Voting is now underway for the Best of Mount Dora awards for everything from restaurants, shopping, events and more. Show your local favorites some love for all of their hard work! Cast your ballot here now through August 15.

Although it's no surprise to many residents, Mount Dora was recently distinguished as one the 10 Great Places to live in the Orlando area in 2023 by Orlando Magazine. Learn what the publication said and about the other neighborhoods included in the honor here.

August marks the height of Florida's hurricane season. Now is the time to check your supplies and make your preparations. Here is the list of the 16 best hurricane tips. Read more

Heads up, drivers! The first day of school for Lake County's public schools is August 10. Please watch for kids walking to their bus stops and plan ahead for delays travelling through school zones.

Last month, Alexander Springs' recreation area closed twice due to alligators, including one instance resulting in an attack by a seven-and-a-half-foot gator. It serves as a timely reminder that August is hatching season in Florida and female alligators are very protective of their young, so as aways, use caution while in their habitat.

Enjoying Lake Dora just got easier with the opening of the new kayak launch at the entrance to Palm Island Park just south of Mount Dora's lighthouse. If you're unsure where to start, try paddling south along the shoreline into Lake Beauclaire for calm waters and beautiful scenery.

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

You can never have too many sushi options! Saga Sushi recently opened on the southern edge of Mount Dora. In addition to fresh sushi, it also offers other Japanese fare. Read more   

French bakery lovers are in for a huge treat. A Wish or Two Ago bakery opened in July in downtown Eustis to rave customer reviews. If the name sounds familiar, it's because the bakery, which offers various pastries, treats, cakes and fresh baked breads, had a previous location in the area. Read more

Mount Dora Buzz has a new editorial feature called "Hidden Gems" to share lesser-known, small local businesses that are worth a visit. Los Compadres, a Mexican market and restaurant in Mount Dora, is the first Hidden Gem with tasty offerings worth checking out. Read more

A new cigar shop, Legacy Cigars, recently opened in downtown Mount Dora across from Donnelly Park. In addition to its cigar assortment, the store also sells accessories like lighters, cutters, and more.

Scroll down for this month's featured events, hot local government topics, stellar local businesses, new development buzz, and local resources.

Local Dining Guide

It's budget season and at a public hearing on July 18 the Mount Dora City Council capped the 2023-2024 maximum tax rate millage at 6.1 mills. This is a maximum rate and the council may opt to reduce it before the budget is finalized next month. The City's current tax rate is 5.9603 mills.
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Mount Dora's City attorney, Sherry Sutphen, resigned in July, so the City Council is expected to vote on an Interim City Attorney at its August 1st meeting.

Mount Dora installed a new stop sign on 11th Avenue at Crestview, so be prepared to stop near the top of the hill close to the entrance to Cottages on 11th.

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall. Scroll down for the 'Buzz' about new development.

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