Bring on the bicycles!  The Wekiva Trail, one of the largest and most anticipated recreational amenities in the area, is progressing in some areas, while advancement is slower in other areas because of complications in the process.  Right now, the Mount Dora portion is the trickiest.  Read more

-  Speaking of bikes, there is much more immediate  good news.  A new bike-share company, Mount Dora Bikes, is preparing to set up shop in downtown Mount Dora.  The new venture will offer bike rentals and eventually fun excursions and tours.  Read more

-  It's that time of year!  Mount Dora Buzz readers get to vote for all of their favorite people, places and businesses in the city to help them earn bragging rights in the annual Best of Mount Dora awards.  Categories cover everything from dining, art, real estate, music, shopping and much more.  So sit down, grab your favorite beverage and spend a few minutes filling out the ballot to show your local favorites some love!  Find out more and get your ballot here.

-  Rumors are abuzz again that downtown Mount Dora's Renaissance Building is for sale.  The fact is that it isn't, nor have there been any discussions with anyone to purchase the building, according to the building's owner. 

-  In July, a young 105-pound bear climbed two trees in downtown Mount Dora before being tranquilized, transported and euthanized by authorities. Bears are not uncommon in the area, so follow these important guidelines to keep humans and bears safe from each other.  Read more

-  Unless you're living under a rock or in a different city, it would be hard not to know the outcome of Mount Dora's embattled Starry Night mural.  After almost a year of City officials moving the goal posts, the homeowners were victorious in their fight to protect their first amendment rights and preserve the mural.  The legal fees on behalf of the homeowners exceeded $75,000.   The $15,000 settlement will go to Pacific Legal Foundation who waived the balance of its fees to help the homeowners. The settlement didn't cover the thousands of dollars in legal fees the Mount Dora residents incurred from another attorney nor their out-of-pocket legal expenses. The City's mayor apologized for the dispute, but stopped short of admitting the city made a mistake. 

- August is typically an active month during hurricane season. Experts updated their predictions for the 2018 season.   You can read their new outlook here.  After last year, many residents depleted their hurricane supplies.  Here is what you need for an even better  hurricane kit this season.  Read more.  

​-  This year Lake County Library System selected its first Poet Laureate.  The talented writer and teacher is a Mount Dora resident.  Read more

-   Scroll down for new restaurant and store news.

-  If you want to know what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall and our schools, head to the Mount Dora Buzz "Government" page here for updates.  

-  Summer is the perfect time for businesses to  take a break in Mount Dora.  Olive Branch Mediterranean Grille is closed for a short vacation and reopens August 8.

- Citing that all seven of the required criteria for the variance were not met, last night the Mount Dora City Council unanimously affirmed the previous denial of the parking variance for the proposed Boathouse on Lake Dora restaurant near the entrance of Boathouse Row. The owners are exploring their options and plan to pursue opening the business.  Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz on Facebook or sign up here for updates.

-  Meanwhile,  Let's Do Cafe, the casual lunch spot on Donnelly Street with the Maine lobster rolls, closed for renovations.  It will re-open before tourist season begins.

-  A new military-themed diner, Combat Cafe,recently opened in Eustis and serves classic diner breakfast and lunch fare.  The restaurant is located at 1602 N. Highway 19 in Eustis and is open from 6am to 2pm. 

-  Summer is always a time for change in downtown Mount Dora.  The Breezeway Cafe,the small eatery in the back of the Renaissance Building in downtown Mount Dora, has closed its doors.  

- Pisco Sour closed its Mount Dora location earlier this summer and reopened under new ownership in downtown Tavares in the former space of Lago Dora.  The new location has a different menu, but kept some of its familiar Peruvian favorites. 

-  For this month's events, click here.

Scroll down for new store news and the monthly 'Buzz-kill'.

We take no joy in bringing you bad news, so please, don't kill the reluctant messenger.   
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This month's buzz-kill is that hardworking teachers are headed back to school this month.  Of course, for a lot of parents, by the time August rolls around they are ready to celebrate the return of the school year.  Lake County Schools begin August 13.  

Scroll down for this month's shout-out. ​

​There's no shortage of good deeds and warm fuzzies our local residents bestow on others.

- This month a huge shout-out goes to all the individuals, families and businesses that stepped up to the annual Mount Dora Buzz PB&J Challenge to help bridge the local childhood hunger gap.  Pat yourselves on the back, because together we delivered well over one ton of PB&J to Lake Cares Food Pantry.  Your kindness makes a huge difference and is greatly appreciated.  We look forward to next year!
​
-  Kudos also go to Mount Dora Police and Fire Departments for hosting their annual back-to-school party that provided big fun and free backpacks and school supplies to local kids.  Well done!

Copyright Mount Dora Buzz 2018

​-  There will be plenty of party hopping in the coming days as the cities of Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis stagger their Independence Day celebrations.  Residents can take in fireworks and parties on three different nights beginning on July 1.  Read more

- There's great news for kids in Eustis.  The city has started construction of Lake County's newest skate park.  The  9,000 square-foot recreational amenity will have plenty of challenging features, including a bowl, ramps and rails.  Read more

-  Meanwhile, Mount Dora is also upping its game when it comes to kids' recreation.  Gilbert Park, the most treasured playground in the city, will have its aging, wooden play fort replaced with something bigger and better this fall.  Read more

​-  Anyone who takes an evening stroll in downtown Mount Dora knows the live music scene is thriving.  One of the many exceptional talents is Christina Adinolfi, a relative newcomer that makes everyone take notice.  Read more

- Mount Dora has a series of new events during the month of July.  The Summer Concert Series will be every Friday night in July with live music ranging from pop and metal to rock and soul.  You can find the schedule with the bands and their descriptions here.

-  Lake County residents and visitors will likely be able to enjoy a new venue for concerts and other performances.  Tavares is looking to build a new Performing Arts Center in one of three locations.  The new venue will complement its growing entertainment district.  Read more

-  There is still time to help our local kids in need as the P B & J Challenge continues through August 1. The goal is to help bridge the hunger gap in summer for children that rely on their school's free or discounted breakfast and lunch program during the school year. Residents, businesses and clubs can easily help by participating in  "The P B & J Challenge."  Get the details and drop-off locations for peanut butter and jelly here.

-  If you want to know what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall and our schools, you can scroll for updates on our "Government" page. 

-  Find the calendar events for the month here or have the free monthly issue with the events delivered to your inbox every month.  

Scroll down for all the new restaurant and store news.

-  A new restaurant, Malecón Mexican Grill, is currently in the build-out stage on Hwy 19 near Eudora Road. The space was previously home to Aladdin's restaurant and Mr. Cerbiche.  When menu details and an opening date are available, it will be posted to the Mount Dora Buzz Facebook page.  

We take no joy in bringing you bad news, so please, don't kill the reluctant messenger.  Here are this month's buzz-kills:
- Pisco Sour, Mount Dora's Peruvian restaurant, permanently closed its doors downtown in June.  The eatery opened last fall in the former space of the popular Lost Parrot and Eduardo's restaurants. 
-  The owners of Double Creek Pottery in Mount Dora decided to close their location next to Maggie's Attic downtown.  The store had featured locally made pottery and other artisan gifts.  
 
Scroll down for this month's shout-out. ​

There's no shortage of good deeds and warm fuzzies our local residents bestow on others.
This month a shout-out goes to a small Mount Dora business making a big difference in cancer patients' lives.   In  June, Saving Face Esthetics & Waxing Bar began the "Warrior Wand" program to provide complimentary eyebrow microblading to cancer patients who have lost their brows to chemotherapy.  The simple procedure gives patients semi-permanent eyebrows to help restore their confidence.  A clearance from a patient's oncologist is required before they can have the procedure.  Patients can get more information about the procedure or contact the business here.

-  Find the calendar events for the month here or have the free monthly issue with the events delivered to your inbox every month.  ​

Copyright Mount Dora Buzz 2018

-  Looking for fresh Middle Eastern fare?  A new Turkish restaurant in downtown Eustis, Nulan Sultan, is the spot for you.  The downtown location serves up traditional favorites from the owner's own recipes. Read more 

-  PizzaAmore in Mount Dora is celebrating a big milestone.  June marks the eatery's 10th anniversary and they are celebrating  with a big community bash on June 30. Read more

-  Chef Alex Gandia, the creative and community-minded chef at Pisces Rising, ended his long run at the downtown Mount Dora restaurant.  We wish him much success as the chef on Vive Tu Dia, an Orlando television series that airs on Saturdays.
​
-  In an effort to put greater focus on its Vietnamese cuisine and sushi menu, Saigon Fusion in Mount Dora announced it will no longer be offering its hibachi items.  No worries, there are plenty of hibachi options in the area, but only one spot for Vietnamese.

-   A second new restaurant recently opened in Eustis. The El Marie Pizzaria (yes, that's how they spell it) & Sub Shoppe.  At the counter, diners can order their choice of pizza. subs, calzones and salads. Read more

We really don't like to bring you bad news, so please, please don't kill the messenger.  Here are this month's buzz-kills:
​
- Fro-yo lovers lost their favorite (and only) game in town.  Mount Dora's High Five Frozen Yogurt closed last month.  We'll let you know if another spot opens to get your fix.

- The downtown Mount Dora store, Double Creek Pottery, announced it's closing its 4th Avenue store next to Maggie's Attic.

-  Melrose Home, the downtown Mount Dora home decor boutique in the Dora Drawdy alley next to Goblin Market, decided to close its retail business to focus on decorating services.  

Discover this month's events for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, here.  If you want to receive the free monthly issue of Mount Dora Buzz with events in your inbox, click here. 
 
Copyright Mount Dora Buzz 2018

-  As part of its effort to help alleviate downtown parking woes, the City of Mount Dora has begun a 4-hour parking limit on select streets in downtown Mount Dora. Unlimited parking is still available in other downtown areas.  Read more

-  By far the best news this month is that Epic Theatres is scheduled to open its doors in Mount Dora this month!  The $10 million project tucked off U.S. 441 will be a 12-screen multiplex.  Read more

-  Although local families have lost Mount Dora's monthly "Movie in the Park" (read more), they have regained another entertainment option with the re-opening of Adventure Cove, the area's only miniature golf course.  Read more

​- If everything goes as planned, downtown Eustis will soon be getting a new waterfront development.  Lake Eustis Club will offer single-family homes on 11.5 acres adjacent to Ferran Park.  Read more

Great news for commuters to Orlando.  The Wekiva Parkway (SR 429 extension) just opened the Round Lake Road on-ramp.    This will cut down the travel time into the Orlando metropolitan area  Read more

-  In other real estate news, one of downtown Mount Dora's larger buildings recently sold to local developers.  The Sunset Building on Baker Street will be undergoing renovations that are expected to be completed this summer.  Read more

- In an effort to make the downtown Mount Dora experience more convenient for residents and visitors, the City will begin offering   shuttles from designated parking lots outside the downtown.  The electric shuttles are scheduled to start April 5.  Read more
- Although it's not a done deal, USPS has zeroed in on a bigger location to replace its current cramped Donnelly Street address in downtown Mount Dora.  The post office has occupied the building for fifty years and has outgrown the site.  Read more

-  For anyone brave enough for carnival rides, Lake County Fair kicks off on April 5 and continues until April 14.  The fair also features live entertainment and livestock shows and sales.  For more local events in Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis, click here.

-  The wheels in the Starry Night mural case are churning forward.  In March, a federal judge granted the homeowners a preliminary injunction against the City of Mount Dora to prevent enforcement and accrual of more fines until the court rules further.    Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz on Facebook for updates on the case.

-  Get the monthly Mount Dora Buzz delivered to your email inbox the beginning of every month.  Subscribe for free here. 

Copyright Mount Dora Buzz 2018

Scroll down for all the new restaurant and store news.

​Stay in the loop.  Here's this month's news update for Mount Dora, Eustis and Tavares.

-  After its sale last year and $600,000 in new renovations, the Howey Mansion is ready for its new role as a tourist attraction and exclusive event venue.  After a decade of neglect, the transformation was no easy feat.  Read more

-  The scheduled sale of downtown Mount Dora's Sunset Building has displaced local artists scurrying for new studio space.   The building on 3rd Avenue and Baker Street housed several artists' studios including Jane Slivka's.  The award-winning acrylic painter will be relocating her studio to a space tucked inside a courtyard at 3rd Avenue at Donnelly Street later this month.

-  A 15-foot gator now permanently graces the shores of Lake Dora near Mount Dora's lighthouse.  The cast copper replica was the brainchild of two generous donors and was installed last week.  Read more

-  The City of Mount Dora was sued last week in federal court for allegedly violating the constitutional rights of the homeowners with the infamous Starry Night mural.  Within 24 hours the federal judge granted a temporary restraining order against the city to stop the fines from growing until the court rules.  Read more.

-  Just down the road, Lake Eustis Museum of Art is hosting its fun Art-A-Fare event this month to help support local art and educational programs.  The annual event is open to the public and features a happy-hour atmosphere with plenty of art, live entertainment, wine, craft beer, food, and more.  Read more

-  A new stamp at the United States Postal Service has a local connection.  A Mount Dora photographer's image was selected to be among the handful of images in the series.  Read more

-  Fans of miniature golf will be happy to hear a Pop-up Art Golf Course will be open March 8-11 in Donnelly Park in Mount Dora.  FunVenture teamed up with Mount Dora Center for the Arts and local artists to create the experience.  Read more

-  Plenty of healthy competition will descend on Lake Dora during the annual Dragon Boat Festival this month.   Spectators can watch from Wooton Park as the crews race on the lake.   Read more

-  Want to know what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall, but don't have time to attend meeetings?  Get brief and informative city council updates on all the most relevant topics here.  

-  Although many residents would love to see a Whole Foods in the area, they will have to wait a little longer for upscale stores.  Another national discount retailer, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, will fill approximately 33,000 square feet of space in Eustis on Bay Street.  Read more

- Recently, the sale of downtown Mount Dora's Cupcake Delights fell through.  After closing its doors briefly in February, the owner of the popular bakery on 4th Avenue decided to reopen March 1.  Local cupcake lovers are over the moon.

-  Looking to shop for something locally?  Depend on the Local Shopping Guide to help discover local stores and unique merchandise.

-  There are tons of area events this month.  Find the ones that will interest you on the calendar here.

Follow Mount Dora Buzz on Facebook for breaking news.   Get free monthly issues of Mount Dora Buzz with news for Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis  here.​​  For more area news download the free mobile app.

​-  This month the historic Howey Mansion will be made available as a venue for tours, weddings and other events.  The over 7,000 square-foot Mediterranean Revival home recently underwent major renovations by its new owners.  

- This is an exciting month for craft beer lovers.  Lake County's newest craft brewery and bar will have its grand opening in mid to late January in downtown Eustis.  If their latest beer, Season, and their soft opening are any indications, Wolf Branch Brewing will be a huge success.  Read more

-  If you enjoy TED Talks, you'll be thrilled to know the international movement to spread ideas and innovation is coming to Eustis in January.  TEDx Eustis will feature a dozen diverse local speakers speaking on a compelling common theme.  Read more


-   As part of our ongoing series on Mount Dora's deep talent pool of musicians, this month we put David Oliver Willis in the hot seat to catch up on his career since American Idol and what life-changing things are headed his way in 2018.  Read more

- Like other tourist destinations across the country, The City of Mount Dora is considering an ordinance to regulate short-term vacationrentals to ensure public safety and the quality of life in residential neighborhoods.  Read more

-  This month both the Antique Extravaganzaand Steampunk Industrial Show come to Mount Dora. Both provide unique opportunities for collectors and the curious to gawk at all kinds of oddities brought to Renningers by dealers throughout the southeast.  Read more

- A new residential development in Mount Dora is being considered.  The proposed Dora Landings subdivision would bring 129 single-family homes to the old Simpson family orange groves.  Read more
-  There is still plenty of time to see the Christmas lights in Donnelly Park.  The city will leave them up until February.  
​
-  Want to know what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall, but don't have time to attend meeetings?  Get brief and informative city council updates on all the most relevant topics here.  

Scroll down for all the new restaurant and store news.

-  Watch for a new eatery. The Loft Cafe, to open in the near future on the second floor of the Renaissance Building.  The space vacated by Mr. Cerbiche is undergoing renovations before it begins dishing out food again.  Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram and Facebook for updates and the opening date. 

-  Pssst.  If you haven't tried the red sauce at the Olive Branch in downtown Mount Dora, it's beyond amazing.   Just sayin'.

- There are at least eleven local restaurants and bars featuring regular live music in Mount Dora and more in Tavares & Eustis.  Soon Wolf Branch Brewing will add their name to the list.  Check the Local Live Music Guideto help you find the live entertainment you'll love.  Check back as the guide continues to grow. Discover other types of entertainment on the calendar here.  

If you want to learn more about local restaurants you can find more information here.

i​-  If you missed Light Up Mount Dora, there is no need to fret.  The Christmas light displayin Donnelly Park remains up until February.  If you want keep track of all the local holiday events, you'll find them here.  

-  Yes, it really does snow in Mount Dora.  This year's forecast for snow in Donnelly Park is December 9 at 5pm.  That's when there will be free sledding and ice skating for kids in Donnelly Park. 

-  If you've never been, you're in for a treat.  The Sydonie Mansion, located just southeast of Mount Dora, is hosting special holiday tours on select dates of the decorated Mediterannean revival mansion.  Reservations are required.  More info

-  If you've strolled down Donnelly Street in downtown Mount Dora, you may have seen the large mural of animated characters, by local artist Tim Parker.  If not, you can check out the expansive painting outside Every Nook + Cranny artist collective.  Read  more

-  To state the obvious, the level of talent among Mount Dora's local musicians is extraordinary.  The deep pool of talent is one of the city's best resources and too often the best kept secret.  Mount Dora Buzz continues its profiles of our community's musicians with this month's interview of Stephen Currence, one of many local favorites. Read more

-  One of the absolute best events in Mount Dora during December is Santa's tour of neighborhoods throughout the city.  To make sure he travels safely through town, Santa is escorted by Mount Dora's Police and Fire Department vehicles with lights and sirens blaring.  It's a wonderful spectacle to behold, along with the looks on children's faces. Find Santa's tour schedule of neighborhoods here.  Thank you, MDFD and MDPD.

-  Any time is the perfect time for random acts of kindness.  Lake Cares Food Pantry could use some non-perishable food donations to help less fortunate families in Lake County during the holidays. When shopping BOGO deals at Publix, just keep one and give the other.  Of course, giving both is fine, too! Another opportunity for giving is Toys for Tots which has many local drop-off locations.
​
-  If you want the free monthly issues of Mount Dora Buzz to arrive in your email inbox, click here.  Want to know what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall, but don't have time to attend meeetings?  Get brief and informative city council updates on all the most relevant topics here.  

Scroll down for all the new restaurant and store news.

- There are at least eleven local restaurants and bars featuring regular live music in Mount Dora and more in Tavares & Eustis.  Check the Local Live Music Guide to help you find the live entertainment you'll love.  Check back as the guide continues to grow. Discover other types of entertainment on the calendar here.  

If you want to learn more about local restaurants you can find more information here.

-  One of Mount Dora's most popular stores is expanding.   Downtown Mount Dora shoppers will be thrilled to know Matamo Designs has leased another space to do a 'little' more of its retail magic. Read more 

-  Downtown Mount Dora's holiday windows are currently being judged for their brilliance by a panel of impartial judges.  Stay tuned to Mount Dora Buzz on Facebook for the winners and then be sure to stroll by and take a peek.

-  Want to get a jump on holiday shopping?  Depend on the Local Shopping Guide to keep you away from the crowds and into stores with unique gifts for everyone on your list.  ​

Get your free subscription to Mount Dora Buzz here.

-The season of cooler weather is upon us and lots of area events kick off this month.  From the Renaissance Fair, Art of the Deal, and the Antique Extravaganza to Light Mount Dora and Light Up Eustis--they all happen in November, plus all the fun monthly events. View calendar

- The area welcomed a new excursion train  last month.  Royal Palm Railway, a 1950's train, will take passengers on a narrated ride between Tavares, Mount Dora and Eustis.  In addition to their regular trips, they will also be offering seasonal-themed rides. Read more

-  Later this month, Mount Dora will get even friendlier.  Mount Dora Welcome Center will open in downtown's historic Donnelly House to greet visitors and provide them with maps, local information and even a free iced-tea on the porch.  Read more

-  If you thought parking in downtown Mount Dora  became increasingly difficult in October, you're right.  The City removed dozens of parking spaces in recent weeks.  Fortunately, a privately-owned, free shuttle service started last month and is staying busy transporting people among downtown destinations.  Read more

-  Not only does November bring us Veterans Day, it also brings Election  Day.  Local elections are Nov. 7, so remember to cast your vote if you haven't already.  

- Searching for something locally? Check out the local bulletin board  "Mount Dora Word of Mouth" on Facebook.  It's the local spot to ask for recommendations, post lost & found pets, announce yard sales and keep in touch with your community.  Find it here

-  Want to know what's happening at Mount Dora City Hall, but don't have time to attend meeetings?  Get brief and informative city council updates on all the most relevant topics here.  

Scroll down for all the new restaurant and store news.

-  Love good tea and coffee?  Cafe 334
in downtown Mount Dora will open later this month inside Every Nook & Cranny artist collective on Donnelly Street.    Patrons can place their order at the window and relax in one of the eclectic seating areas or take their drinks to go.  Eventually, the cafe will serve light vegan fare.  Read more

- The Golden Triangle is a bastion for live music in Florida.  Downtown Mount Dora alone boasts at least eleven restaurant and bar venues with regular live music.  Check the Local Live Music Guide to help you find the live entertainment you'll love and check back as it grows.   You can find other types of entertainment on the calendar here.  

-  Watch for a new Cuban restaurant to open in Tavares.  Havana 1959 will dish out Cuban sandwiches, Ropa Vieja, media noches, tres leche and other traditional favorites at 1080 E. Alfred Street.  
-  Discovering the area's restaurants is easy. Check out the  L 
ocal Dining Guide
with restaurants in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis to learn what options can satisfy your cravings.  You might find a new favorite!
 Read more ​

-  Got a sweet tooth? Watch for We're Nuts to open later this month in the back of the Renaissance Building in downtown Mount Dora.  The new store will offer a selection of over 100 bulk items, Belgian chocolates, seasonal cheeses, artisan breads and more.

-  Want to get a jump on holiday shopping? Depend on the Local Shopping Guide to keep you away from the crowds and into stores with unique gifts for everyone on your list.  Read more

-  Find the upcoming events here