News & entertainment for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

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

2/2/2022

Florida is now in the peak of its festival season and this month kicks off with the 47th annual Mount Dora Arts Festival throughout the streets of downtown. Read more

February is African American History Month and Tavares was to host an African American Heritage Festival in Wooton Park on February 5, but it was cancelled by the organizer (not the City of Tavares). However, Lake County Museum of Art (LCMA) will celebrate the month with a special exhibit from February 4 to February 26. There will be an opening reception on February 4 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Meanwhile, Eustis is also gearing up for its big annual GeorgeFest this month. The event is spread across multiple days and features a popular carnival, a parade and other family-friendly activities. Get the schedule of events here

W.T. Bland has some Jurassic visitors again this year. Grab the kids and hustle over to the library's lobby to see their awesome dinosaur exhibit before it leaves at the end of the month. Read more

February marks the last Mount Dora Antique Extravaganza of the season. The sprawling outdoor event at Renningers Antique Center occurs every November, January and February. Read more

The developer and property owner of the proposed Mount Dora Groves pulled their request to increase residential density for an expansive residential and commercial development that would have spanned both sides of U.S. 441 between Loch Leven Landing shopping center and the Country Club of Mount Dora. That means there is no longer an application with the city to develop that property.

Just a reminder....Mount Dora is going to have its own new cookbook, and residents and businesses owners are encouraged to submit their favorite recipe from apps, entrees, sides, cocktails and desserts to help support a great local cause. Read more

Mount Dora High School tapped a new head football coach last month, just as construction kicked off on its multi-phase stadium improvement project. Read more

Scroll down for new local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, the Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

Watch for My Peaceful Treasures, downtown Mount Dora's unique metaphysical boutique, to relocate to 5th Avenue in the former home of Papilio. The bigger space will allow more beautiful jewelry, clothing and gemstones.

Mount Dora's popular Olive Branch Mediterranean Restaurant changed hands last month. Although the community will miss former owners Jerry and Karen Vejseli, the new owner, Jeff Riesland, plans to keep a lot the same. Read more

Indie Markets are big throughout the country and until recently North Lake County residents would have to travel to DeLand or St. Petersburg to find one. Now a monthly indie market has taken root near Eustis and is hoping to grow during the season. Read more

Watch for a new Haystax Restaurant to open in Mount Dora on Old Highway 441 just east of Eudora Road in the same shopping center as the Post Office. The diner-style eatery will serve breakfast all day, every day starting at 6:30 a.m. They also have a lunch and dinner menu with American diner standards and a few Mexican options.

Scroll down for Government Buzz, this month's local history column and the annual Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

© Mount Dora Buzz 2021

Lake County will be holding its local Household Hazardous Waste pickup on March 17 at Mount Dora's Walmart parking lot. Lake County residents can drop of 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.

In celebration of African American History Month, learn more about the history of Mount Dora's first Black settlers. Read more

Mount Dora has a rich history. Discover things you never knew about this beautiful area of Central Florida by checking out the history timeline and articles here.

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

1/1/2022

Happy New Year! Mount Dora Buzz wishes you a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2022.

This month brings the exciting return of Central Florida Film Festival to Mount Dora. The annual international festival will screen over 150 films of all different types of genres. The three-day event takes place January 21 through 23. Read more

At the end of the month, the Florida Storytelling Festival returns to downtown Mount Dora with a bevy of events at the historic Lakeside Inn. You can find many of their events on the local entertainment calendar here.

A new 224-acre residential development has been proposed in Mount Dora which would span both sides of U.S. 441 between Loch Leven Landing shopping center and Limit Avenue. The developers of the proposed Simpson Grove development will have an information session on the project at Mount Dora Community Building on January 10 at 6 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend to learn more. The development is expected to be voted on at the January 18th Mount Dora City Council meeting.

Time to show off your cooking and bartending skills. Mount Dora is going to have its own new cookbook, and residents and businesses owners are encouraged to submit their favorite recipe from apps, entrees, sides, cocktails and desserts to help support a great local cause. Read more

Tavares Public Library's new 2,594-square-foot expansion will have its ribbon cutting on January 6. The multipurpose space includes a section for teens, accommodations for individual and group gatherings, and a programming and meeting area with interactive technology for collaboration. The library is located at 314 N New Hampshire Avenue.

Scroll down for new local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, the Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

Soon downtown Mount Dora will no longer be void of a pizza place. A new eatery featuring pizza made from scratch will open this month next to Pisces Rising. Back Porch Pizza Bar will also be concocting craft cocktails. Learn more about its other offerings and see some of its gourmet pizza menu here.

A new store, Regal Shops, offering all types of essential merchandise, recently opened in the Grandview Business District. In January, the store expects to serve burgers and wings from their commercial kitchen. Read more

Panda Express fans will be happy to hear that the Mount Dora location is planning to open soon. Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram for an opening date.

Scroll down for Government Buzz, the annual Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

© Mount Dora Buzz 2021

Habitat for Humanity raised $90,000 to match the same amount from the Mount Dora's Northeast Community Redevelopment Agency (NECRA) to renovate and upgrade six homes in the neighborhood.

At its January 18 regular meeting, Mount Dora City Council will be voting on a large proposed development, Simpson Groves, that would significantly increase the city's population and tax base. The developer will host an information session on January 10th at the Mount Dora Community Building on 6th Avenue and Baker Street. The public is encouraged to attend. The session will start at 6 p.m.

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

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

12/1/2021

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Bring on the holidays! Don't miss any of the season's festive events, including visits from Santa. Check out the local Holiday Event Guide for Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis here and get updates on Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page.

It's hard to imagine a better Christmas town for kids than Mount Dora. For starters, there's an oversized musical Christmas Tree, a parade, a wonderland of twinkling lights, a special mailbox for letters to Santa that get answered personally by Mrs. Claus (get more info here), and he also visits the city's neighborhoods during his four-night Santa Tour. You can find the routes for each evening here. All of these festivities are topped off by the annual Christmas Walk on December 3 and Snow in the Park on December 11 (see calendar for details). No doubt, it's great to be a kid in Mount Dora!

Not to be overlooked is Tavares' big Christmas Celebration and Parade on December 4 from 3-9 pm. Head downtown for "ice-skating," food vendors, music and more.

No worries, adults aren't forgotten during the holiday season. Mount Dora's Annual Christmas Tour of Homes takes place on December 4 and 5. The self-driving tour starts at the Country Club of Mount Dora's clubhouse. On New Year's Eve, usher in 2022 at the annual New Year's Eve block party and fireworks at Sunset Park in downtown Mount Dora.

Visitors can now explore Mount Dora a new way. Mount Dora Marc's Walking Tours recently started helping people get the most of their Mount Dora visits. The two-hour tours start from Mount Dora Community Building and meander through downtown while the experienced guide shares the city's history and stories. Read more

The remarkable results of last month's election means times are changing in Mount Dora for at least the next few years. Mount Dora's new City Council members were sworn in on November 16. The three younger members represent a significant shift in the small town's government. Read more

Everyone loves to shop locally and this year Explore Mount Dora will make it easier to find unique gifts for everyone on your list by posting great local finds. You can follow Explore Mount Dora on Facebook here.

Scroll down for new local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, the Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

Beer lovers can toast to a new microbrewery and cafe opening in uptown Mount Dora. The new spot will specialize in European-style brews and family-friendly, casual dining. Read more

Another new eatery, a pressed sandwich spot, opened in downtown Mount Dora. Delicias Cubanas is located on Alexander Street. Patrons can order Cuban sandwiches and other pressed sandwiches at the walk-up counter in the former space of Dukes Dogs.

Scroll down for Government Buzz, the annual Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

© Mount Dora Buzz 2021

Mount Dora's new City Manager, Patrick Comiskey, started in mid-November. Comiskey is a seasoned top administrator who recently relocated to the city with his wife after accepting the position. Read more

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

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

11/1/2021

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The local event season is officially underway and later this month the holiday events kick off with Light Up Eustis. Tavares will host its on the first weekend in December. Mount Dora didn't respond to multiple requests for information about its traditional Light Up event. The unofficial word is the event is cancelled again this year. Meanwhile, you can find the local Holiday Event Guide for Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis here and get updates on Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page.

Drivers on the north end of Donnelly Street in Mount Dora can't help but notice the increased construction activity. A new pedestrian bridge and entrance feature is currently being built near the existing entrance signage. Read more and see the initial rendering here

The favorite annual event for landscapers and plant enthusiasts returns on November 13 and 14. Mount Dora Plant and Garden Fair features much more than hundreds of native and exotic plants. Read more

This year Mount Dora voters have been inundated with campaign materials which can make it hard to distinguish the candidates' positions. Mount Dora Buzz has an updated article on the 10 key similarities and differences between Mount Dora's candidates to make it a bit easier to differentiate them. Read more. Remember, Election Day is November 2 and polls are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Vintage and antique lovers will descend on Mount Dora on November 19 through 21 as the sprawling Antique Extravanganza returns to Renningers Antique Center. It's the perfect chance to find unique holiday gifts. Read more

November kicks of Mount Dora Buzz's annual Hoodie and Jacket Drive. This year we'll be collecting new and "like-new" items for local school kids ages 4 to 18 years old. If you're able, please go through your kids' closets for hoodies or jackets that they may have outgrown or shop the clearance racks to help the less fortunate kids in our community stay warm this winter. Our goal is always to give them warm clothing that they can take pride in wearing to school. Donations can be dropped off again at Barrel of Books & Games, located at 128 W. 4th Avenue in downtown Mount Dora, from November 3 to November 20. Thank you for any help you can provide.

Last month Segway of Central Florida, located in downtown Mount Dora, had a fire as a result of a lithium ion battery. Luckily, no one was injured. The retailer and service business has set up temporary digs across the street at 133 W. 5th Avenue while the original location is being restored.

Mount Dora is celebrating a big birthday this month! Mount Dora High School is having its Centennial Celebration on November 20. The event will feature favorite local musicians, food, silent auction and more. The party will benefit the school's stadium improvement project. Read more

Scroll down for new local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, the Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

Last month Plaza Guadalajara moved from its location on US 441 in Mount Dora to a nearby space near Fitness CF. The restaurant also changed its name to El Mezcal, which is the same as its Ocala location. Read more

Donut lovers have a new spot to get their fix. King Donuts (unaffiliated with Donut King in Clermont) opened on Old 441 just west of Eudora Road in Mount Dora. Read more

Mount Dora has a new location to donate items for resale that will benefit many local charities. Fifth Avenue Thrift Shoppe, part of First Methodist Church of Mount Dora, opened in October and will begin accepting more donations later this month. Among the charities to benefit from the sales of merchandise are Lake Cares Food Pantry, Carpenter's House and the Methodist Children's Home.

Scroll down for Government Buzz, the Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

© Mount Dora Buzz 2021

CITY HALL NEWS

In October, Mount Dora City Council approved the employment contract of Patrick Comiskey, who was hired as the new City Manager. Comiskey is in the process of moving to Mount Dora with his family and will begin on November 15th with an annual salary of $170,000.

Groundbreaking for the City's new Fire Station #35 took place on October 27. The station will be located on the north side of County Road 19A west of Eudora Rd.

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

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

10/1/2021

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Get ready! October kicks off event season in Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis and this year's full schedule of diverse activities and festivals doesn't disappoint.

The first weekend in October is a busy one. Friday, October 1, Mount Dora High's festive Hurricane Homecoming Parade will proceed through downtown at 1:30 p.m. followed by tailgating starting at 5 p.m. and kick-off to the annual big game at 7pm. Then the sprawling Fall in the Field two-day event returns to Mount Dora and offers up everything you need to get you in the spirit of the upcoming season. Read more

The first weekend also sees the return of one of the favorite local fall activities. The towering corn maze at Long & Scott Farm opens to visitors on the night of October 1 with the theme of dinosaurs. In addition to its daylight hours, this year the farm will also offer some creepier nighttime maze events. Read more

To help our readers keep up with all the upcoming events, Mount Dora Buzz compiled the Best Fall Events in Lake County. The list of top activities ranges from family-friendly events, big festivals and even opportunities for seasoned athletes. Read more

In case you missed the awe-inspiring event last May, once again the Phantom Airborne Brigade will be parachuting into Lake Dora. The event will take place on October 9. The best vantage point to watch the impressive sight is Wooton Park in downtown Tavares or by boat nearby. Read more

The best people-watching event in Lake County will take place in Mount Dora later in the month. The Steampunk and Industrial Show returns to Renningers with fire dancers, creative costumes, live music, unique events and dozens of Steampunk and vintage vendors set up outdoors among the oaks. Read more

The City of Mount Dora's upcoming elections for mayor and city council are on November 2 and mail-voting has already begun. This year there are two candidates for mayor and two for Mount Dora City Council District 1. All registered voters in the city can vote in the mayoral race and only registered voters that reside in District 1 can vote in that election. These are the only races on the ballot. Read more

Near the end of the month, be sure to take in the Mount Dora Craft Fair. The two-day event along the streets of historic downtown is among the top-ranked craft fairs in the country and features hundreds of talented craft vendors. Read more

Pinktober is back! Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings opportunities to support the cause with local events like Bra-Vo, Paddleboat Pink and the virtual PinkOut 5k. Learn more about these events and others on the calendar here.

Scroll down for new local eateries and stores, plus local Government Buzz, the Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

Watch for a new Mexican Restaurant, El Mezcal, to open in Mount Dora. The restaurant will be located in the former space of Rosati's in the Fitness CF shopping Center on U.S. 441. Watch Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page for an opening date.

Donut lovers will soon have a new spot to get their fix. King Donuts (unaffiliated with Donut King in Clermont) is currently in its build-out stage on Old 441 just west of Eudora Road in Mount Dora. Watch Mount Dora Buzz's Facebook page for an update.

A new gift shop just opened in downtown Eustis. Lemonade Lifestyle Boutique is located on 113 Bay Street and features home decor accessories and gifts.

Downtown bargain hunters are over the moon now that Hope Hospice Thrift Store, located on the corner of Donnelly and 3rd Avenue, has reopened.

Scroll down for Government Buzz, the Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

© Mount Dora Buzz 2021

The City of Eustis City Manager Ron Neibert resigned in September as part of a mutual agreement. The separation agreement included a severance package of 20 weeks’ pay, accrued sick/vacation leave and insurance. The total cost of the agreement was approximately $125,400.00. The City Commission appointed Bill Howe, Human Resources Director, as Acting City Manager through October 15, 2021.

Meanwhile, the City of Mount Dora is in the final stages of selecting its new city manager after the public meet-and-greet event with the top candidates in late September.

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

(The above is a paid political advertisement)

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

9/1/2021

Drum roll, please! Mount Dora Buzz readers cast their votes for the Best of Mount Dora in categories ranging from dining and libations to shopping and pampering spa services. Now is the time to discover who earned the title the "Best of Mount Dora!" Find the winners here.

This local season of Friday Night Lights is expected to be better than ever as Mount Dora High celebrates its 100-year anniversary. Take in the local high school games and their bands starting this month. Find the schedules here. To usher in its centennial year, Mount Dora High School has launched a community campaign to help raise funds to improve its almost 50-year-old stadium and auxiliary facilities. Read more

With a growing number of Mount Dora art studios popping up, aspiring artists can now get their creative juices flowing in six different downtown venues offering art classes. The art studios welcome beginners and experienced artists with diverse classes ranging from painting, glass and ceramics to jewelry making, mosaics and photography. Next time you're downtown, pop into the studios to inquire about their schedule of classes.

This November's Mount Dora election has attracted a notable difference in the candidates for both of the races. Two local small business owners have stepped up to put their hat in the ring for the mayor and city council positions currently up for grabs. Read more

This month's Day Trippin' location doesn't require too much effort. Nature-loving residents just have to travel a quick 15 minutes to be transported a world away. It's the perfect way to spend a weekend morning or afternoon. Read more

In an impressive grassroots feat, Mount Dora residents far surpassed the number of voter signatures needed to let voters decide whether to reinforce the existing 35' building height limit in the historic district by adding it to the city's charter. Residents created a Facebook page to provide updates to interested residents and the media about the initiative. Get the details here

Need a friend? Now through September 19 the Lake County Animal Shelter is offering free pet adoptions to loving homes as part of a national initiative. Get details

As part of Mount Dora Buzz's recurring column on Mount Dora's throwbacks, learn more about the city's historic Parkview Building and what its most recent tenants are. Read more

Scroll down for new local eateries and stores, plus government buzz, the Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

Edge Coffee, Mount Dora's new community-minded coffee house, opened last month with rave reviews. It's located on 3rd Avenue in the former spot of Magical Meat Boutique.

After more than a decade in downtown Mount Dora, Matamo Designs, the home decor and gift shop on the corner of Fifth Avenue and Donnelly Street, recently sold to a local resident. We wish Debbie Belton, the store's longtime owner, a fun and relaxing next chapter.

Watch for the non-profit Fifth Avenue Thrift Store to open downtown on the campus of First United Methodist Church. The expected opening is Labor Day weekend.

Scroll down for local government buzz, the Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

© Mount Dora Buzz 2021

Local Shopping Guide

Local DIning Guide

When Mount Dora residents receive their TRIM Notice they will see City of Mount Dora's anticipated tax millage rate as 6.2. That will likely be reduced to 6.0 mills or lower by the City Council before it's finalized. At 6.0, the owner of an "average" Mount Dora house with a homestead exemption will pay $25.10 more in tax next year. That translates to approximately $2.09 more monthly on a house with an assessed value of $182,607.

Interested residents can attend the first of two public hearings on Mount Dora's proposed 2021/2022 budget at 5:30 p.m. on September 7th at City Hall. That's when the City Council will adopt a tentative millage rate and budget. A second public hearing will be held on September 21 at 5:30 when the final millage and budget will be adopted. These are public meetings at City Hall.

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

AUGUST EDITION: News & Events for Mount Dora Tavares & Eustis

8/1/2021

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She's been on the local music scene since 2014 and has continued to develop her immense talents as a singer-songwriter. Mount Dora Buzz sat down with musician Kelly Jarrard for a relaxed convo about her work, life and a fun round of "Would you Rather..." Read more

In late August, Mount Dora Center for the Arts is planning to reopen its gallery next door to its old space. Watch Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook for an opening date.

It's that time! The annual Best of Mount Dora award will be announced in the September edition of Mount Dora Buzz and covers the best of everything from restaurants, shopping and more.

August is typically the busiest month of hurricane season and by now, you likely know the standard preparations. So here's our list of lesser-known hurricane hacks that you don't want to go without. Read more

Of all of Mount Dora's historic buildings, only one was dubbed "The Castle." Although the mansion no longer sits atop the hill over Old 441, many locals still remember it and the rumors of its haunting. Read more

Mount Dora's election season has officially kicked off. Incumbent Mayor Cathy Hoechst has been challenged by Crissy Stile, a downtown business owner and former Mount Dora council member. Residents interested in running for City Council have until August 13 at noon to file the paperwork for this November's non-partisan election. For more

For this month's Day Trippin' feature to escape the heat, we headed west for an adventurous aquatic escape that's well worth the short drive. Read more

Negotiations between the City of Mount Dora and G3 Development over their proposed large-scale “district” downtown for parking, office, retail and apartments officially came to an end on July 26 when the company's principal announced he was withdrawing the controversial bid. This could pave the way for the City to issue a new Request for Proposals in the future that has a more detailed scope for a parking garage and attract more than one bid. You can read more details about the withdrawn bid here.

Scroll down for new local eateries and stores, plus government buzz, last year's Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

A new coffee spot opened last week, adding to Mount Dora's ever-growing number of coffee options. Foxtail Coffee, a popular Florida-based chain, opened on U.S. 441 in Loch Leven Landing. The company will open another location in downtown Mount Dora. Read more

It was announced late last month that an iconic local restaurant will be closing its doors. Palm Gardens Restaurant, the popular outdoor eatery on the entrance to the Dead River in Tavares, has been serving up casual seafood and other fare for over thirty years. The waterfront restaurant lost its lease, according to its owners.

A new spot for treasure hunting and bargains is coming to Mount Dora in September. First United Methodist Church is opening a spacious and well-curated thrift store at their 5th Avenue campus.

A small locally-owned eatery, Chris' Place, re-opened in downtown Eustis in July.

Chocoholics rejoice! A new chocolatier, KKO Chocolate, is opening in the Renaissance Building in downtown Mount Dora. Before expanding into a brick-and-mortar location, its premium chocolates were made to order.

Anyone on a quest for more plant-based food items downtown will be happy a new vegan bakery will be opening in the coming weeks in Mount Dora Marketplace.

Scroll down for local government buzz, the Best of Mount Dora winners, and more.

The Federal SAFER grant that funded 12 firefighter positions in Mount Dora is expiring at the end of the year. Now the City is in discussions about whether to layoff the firefighters, which would reduce the number from 36 to 24. This will be the topic of the next budget workshop on Tuesday August 3rd at 9:00 a.m. at the W. T. Bland Library meeting room. The public is invited to attend.

Don't panic when you receive your TRIM notice this month. The City Council set a tentative, maximum tax millage rate of 6.2, but in the coming weeks more data should be available to help them reduce it. Watch for the City's budget hearings in September for the final proposed tax rate. City of Mount Dora staff and the City Council believe they can balance its upcoming budget with a millage rate of 6.0 mills, which is slightly higher than last year.

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

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

7/1/2021

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Known for its quaint historic district, Mount Dora boasts more than its share of cheerful cottages and bungalows with tons of curb appeal. Mount Dora Buzz readers submitted their favorites resulting in the Colorful Cottages of Mount Dora pictorial. View it here

Food on the run just got easier with the opening of Wawa in Mount Dora on June 30. Never mind their non-ethanol gas, fans of the chain love their edible fuel, like burgers, hoagies, salads and shakes. Read more

From herons, gators, otters, and bald eagles overhead, our local Chain of Lakes never disappoints wildlife enthusiasts. There has been an increasing number of manatee reports in Lake County waterways, so Mount Dora Buzz set out to learn more. Read more

On July 19, the City of Mount Dora will host a special meeting for residents about the parking garage project. Residents will be able to learn more and provide their input. The project is currently being negotiated with the developer. To learn more or download the project and/or the Request for Proposals (RFP) click here.

For this month's Day Trippin' feature we headed north for a great destination for beaches, bars, shopping, dining, plus lots of history and outdoor life. Read more

Big Shout out to newly retired Mount Dora Fire Chief Tim Griner, who served the City with dedication for a decade and has a total of 34 years in fire service. Thanks for your honorable service and we wish you a very happy retirement.

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Downtown Eustis has a cozy new place to enjoy boutique wines, live music and wine tastings. Magnolia Wine Garden recently opened at 114 E. Magnolia Ave.

Anyone on the hunt to satisfy their sweet tooth, now has a new spot to try. Charissa's Homemade Bake Shop just opened in Tavares and whips up decadent cakes, cookies, scones and more. Everything is made from scratch and gluten free is available. Read more

A new business in Mount Dora, Ceviche Express, has returned the popular seafood dish to downtown. The chilled Peruvian dish is perfect for summer and you can choose from five varieties including fish, shrimp, or octopus. Read more

Watch for Artisans on Fifth, downtown Mount Dora's local artists co-op, to reopen at 139 E. 4th Avenue in mid-July.

Next time you're taking the shortcut through Royellou Alley, take a look at the newly renovated Warehouse building. The historic Rehbaum Warehouse faced serious structural issues, but after a 18-month renovation, the two-story building is now complete with about a dozen new offices.

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Local Dining Guide

Local Shopping Guide

With the help of Mount Dora Police Chief Brett Meade, Mount Dora streets will be getting a bit quieter. The Chief presented a new ordinance to quell "excessive noise" emanating from some vehicles. The new law is expected to be approved by the City Council in early July. Read more

Last month the City of Mount Dora settled the whistleblower suit filed by former MDPD Deputy Chief Mike Fewless for $260,000. Read more

After a protracted effort, Mount Dora City Council voted against pursuing a controversial pickleball project in the Northeast Community. Residents of the area had vocally opposed the idea for over a year stating that the community had more important needs and priorities for the land.

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

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

6/1/2021

The temps are warming up and the local public pools and splash pads are providing a fun way to cool off. All are now open for the season. Read more

Get ready for a new coffee spot...or two in Mount Dora. Foxtail Coffee, the regional chain of popular coffee cafes will reportedly open two new locations in Mount Dora. Read more

Artisans of 5th, the gallery shop featuring local artists, is relocating in July to 4th Avenue. Meanwhile, it will remain open at its 5th Avenue location until June 30. The artist co-op, which didn't have a lease, was required to move due to the pending sale of the Mount Dora Center for the Arts building. Read more

There will soon be another spot in downtown Mount Dora to satisfy your sugar craving. A new chocolate shop is planning to open in the Renaissance Building. Watch Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram page for updates.

Mount Dora's historic Lakeside Inn is one of the area's best known landmarks and sits on five acres of prime lakefront property. After 10 years of ownership, the inn's proprietor, who is also a Mount Dora resident, discussed the city's economy and future with Mount Dora Buzz. Read more

After extensive re-construction and improvements, the City of Tavares has opened its brand new docks near Wooton Park. The docks were destroyed by Hurricane Irma in 2017. In addition to slips available for day use, 80 leases are available to accommodate personal and commercial boats, as well as seaplanes. Read more

The 2021 Hurricane season outlook was released and is similar to last year's prediction so residents can expect a busier than usual season. Before the season is in full swing, the state's annual Sales Tax Holiday kicked off for residents to make their hurricane preparations. Learn more about this year's season and the sales tax holiday here.

This month's Day Trippin' location has a fun vibe, great shopping, diverse restaurants, breweries and lots of outdoor activities. Read more

A long last, Tavares opened its own history museum inside the City's train station at Wooton Park downtown.

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Lake Cares Food Pantry recently announced that its long-time executive director, Irene O'Malley will be retiring at the end of the year. Read more. She's been an amazing gift to Lake County and we wish her a very happy retirement.

Big shout out to all of the 2021 graduates who persevered through their last year of high school during an extraordinary year. The future is yours, so carpe diem!

Scroll down for local government buzz, Best of Mount Dora winners, links to more local entertainment and useless facts.

© Mount Dora Buzz 2021

CITY HALL NEWS
The hottest topic in the City of Mount Dora has been the Planning and Zoning Commission's proposal to increase building heights in downtown Mount Dora from 35 feet to 55 feet. Residents can weigh in at a special Town Hall meeting on the topic at Mount Dora Community Building on June 14 at 5:30 p.m.

Local government hours are returning to normal. Beginning June 1, Mount Dora City Hall is open 5 days a week. During COVID-19 the CIty had reduced its City Hall operations to 4 days a week. W.T. Bland Library has also resumed its pre-COVID-19 hours of operation.

Earlier this year, the City of Mount Dora sent out a Request for Proposals for a parking structure. G3 Development (Downtown Parking Solution MD, LLC) was the sole bidder on the expansive project. Mount Dora City Council approved beginning negotiations with the developer on their proposed five-level project that would include a parking garage and other mixed-use spaces. The large project borders commercial and residential areas and would encompass the city block from Third Avenue to the train tracks and from Baker to Tremain.

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

Local Entertainment Calendar

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

5/1/2021

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May 1 brings the Founder's Day Citrus Festival to Lake County. Head to the historic Howey Mansion for the free event with craft vendors, food, free tours and local history information. Read more

It's a bird. It's a plane. Look to the skies over Lake Dora on May 1 for an impressive series of Airborne jumps from a vintage D-day plane as it drops dozens of parachutists just off Wooton Park in Tavares. Read more

Medical marijuana dispensaries had been popping up in Florida for a few years, but remained conspicuously absent in north Lake County. Now that has changed with the opening of Trulieve in Eustis which will serve patients from across the area. Read more

Time to cool off! Tavares Splash Park in Wooton Park has reopened on weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m until June 6. Then it will be open every day through August 8.

Last month, Mount Dora Planning and Zoning Commission voted (4-3) to pursue an ordinance to increase building heights in the City, including downtown. The ordinance isn't necessary to construct a a downtown parking garage. In February the commission had instructed the City's planning staff to bring back an ordinance to allow increased building heights to attract development. In response, the City's staff created two options for the ordinance. Option A had significantly fewer building restrictions and was more developer-friendly. Option B had more design requirements and protections in place to protect and enhance Mount Dora's design standards. Option A prevailed by one vote and the final version will be voted on in at a public meeting in May. If approved, it will advance to the city council. Read more

This month's Day Trippin' feature is a pristine spot that's a perfect get-away during Central Florida's sizzling summer months. This quick road trip from Mount Dora is an easy 90-minute drive away. Read more

This spring has brought great news for downtown Mount Dora merchants and restaurants. Typically, the downtown area has a short six-month tourist season, but this year there are still throngs of people visiting after Easter which is typically when snowbirds return to the north and local business sharply tapers off. There is a collective finger-crossing that this is the first year of a longer season for downtown businesses that thrive when feet are on the street.

Mount Dora recently announced its new Police Chief. Chief Brett Meade brings with him an impressive law enforcement background and a demonstrated desire and ability to reach out to the community and fix the problems at the department that he inherited. Read more

After St. Patrick's vaccine site closed in Mount Dora in April, the Lake Square Mall site is also expected to close for first doses after May 4 and second doses on May 25. No appointment is necessary. After the closure, check out Mount Dora Buzz's local Covid-19 resources page to stay in the loop about updates on vaccine sites and the ever-changing process. Visit the resource page here.

Scroll down for the buzz about what new eateries are in the area and more....

If you're still in the search for the perfect cup of joe, soon there will be one more Mount Dora spot to try. Ireland-based Edge Coffee is opening a downtown location on Third Avenue in the former site of the Magical Meat Boutique. The business is currently in the build-out stage and the plan is for it to be dispensing copious amounts of caffeine by August.

Mount Dora Center for the Arts announced it was selling its historic Fifth Avenue building to G3 Development. The deal is expected to close by the end of June. Read more

Many local restaurants have been struggling to fill open positions for servers and kitchen staff, which has forced some to adjust their operations. Among them, Jeremiah's is closing its kitchen earlier and Chick-Fil-A has kept its inside dining area closed due to the lack of workers. The shortage isn't just affecting eateries. Wawa has offered a signing bonus and a COVID-19 vaccine financial incentive to attract workers. Local job postings in many fields are posted daily on Mount Dora Word of Mouth.

Meat lovers should keep an eye out for P.J.'s Chophouse to open in downtown Eustis on Magnolia Street in the old Tillie's Tavern space.

Scroll down for local government buzz, Best of Mount Dora winners, links to more local entertainment and useless local facts.

© Mount Dora Buzz 2021

The City of Mount Dora will host a special Town Hall meeting that will cover a variety of local hot topics. The public is encouraged to attend the meeting at the Mount Dora Community Building on May 11 at 5:30 p.m. Read more

On May 19, Mount Dora Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z) will vote on an ordinance to increase downtown's building height limit from the current 35 feet to 55 feet. The public is encouraged to attend the meeting and residents may speak on the issue prior to the vote. The meeting starts at 10 a.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall on Baker Street. Read more

Lake County Libraries have kicked off their Fines for Food program now through May 31. If you have overdue books, now is the time to donate food to help families in need and get your fines forgiven. Read more

Mount Dora City Council named Charles Revell Interim City Manager and the Slavin Management Consultants were chosen as the search firm to identify candidates for the City Manager position after the council parted ways with former City Manager Robin Hayes.. The process is expected to take between six and eight months.

Be sure to check Mount Dora Buzz's government page regularly to find out what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall. For Lake County Covid-19 information go to the resource page here.
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