16th Annual Mount Dora Plant & Garden Fair Nov. 6 & 7

The 16th Annual Mount Dora Plant & Garden Fair is being held Nov. 6 & 7 in downtown Mount Dora.

When summer’s heat abates, gardeners know it’s time to head to Mount Dora and its breezy lakefront park, Simpson Cove. The downtown park, with its red-and-white lighthouse, is a half-block from the busy shopping district.

Whether they garden on several acres or on a windowsill, people know they can count on the Mount Dora Plant & Garden Fair for rare and unusual plants.

“Many people new to Florida don’t realize we grow annuals in the fall and winter,” said Christine Cole, the event’s chairman. “Also, fall is the best time to plant most shrubs and ornamentals, such as camellias. Woody plants need time to put down roots before temperatures rise again.”

Central Florida’s finest growers bring more than 12,000 plants to the event, which features orchid growers and includes native plants, butterfly-attracting perennials, herbs, roses, camellias, begonias with a complete selection of rare and unusual tropical plants.

But great gardens depend on more than plants only. The Fair brings together purveyors of wrought-iron, containers, garden antiques and garden and patio décor.

For more information about the Fair, call Ms. Cole at (352) 357-4116.

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This outdoor adventure is simply a’maze’ing

Long & Scott Farms, located at 26216 County Road 448A, Mount Dora, opened its newest Cornfield Maze Adventure on Oct. 2 with the theme “Fresh From Florida.”

The maze runs through Nov. 28. The seven-acre corn maze was originally started in 2003 to bring attention to the family-owned Long & Scott Farm. The farm is one of the last remaining in what was once an agriculturally rich area.

“We want people to know there is a farm out here,” said Cindy Scott. “We’re one of the few farmers out here and the last growers of Zellwood Sweet Corn.”

In previous years, the maze has resembled the Statue of Liberty and an American eagle. The larger maze, which takes between one to two hours to complete, is accompanied by a half-hour, mini-maze for kindergarteners and preschoolers. The farm’s year-round “Corn-fusion” maze, which is made of Ligustrum trees, is being transformed into a scavenger hunt with a prize of Zellwood sweet corn. Other new activities include a zipline for kids and tetherball.

“This is a good educational experience for kids,” said Rebecca Ryan, Cindy’s sister and one of the many family members working on the farm. “It’s real cool to see the kids faces when they come out to the farm.”

A group of four to six participants, which must include an adult, are given a flag and sent off to conquer the maze. The flag is in case the group gets lost. By waving the flag, market staff high atop a watchtower can spot groups that are having difficulty finding the exit. There are strict rules to the maze. Obviously no smoking is allowed as is foul language — just “aw shucks” as Scott jokingly says.

“One of our big rules is don’t touch or trample the corn stalks,” Ryan said. “You’ll just ruin it for the other people.”

The full size and mini corn mazes are just half the fun at the farm. The price of admission also includes a 60-foot slide, labyrinth rock maze, a mist maze, play area and game area.

After participants finish the maze, the country market has all sorts of goodies to purchase, including pumpkins, squash, fresh produce, jams and preserves, honey, cold drinks, and, of course, Zellwood Sweet Corn.

Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for children, ages 3 to 16. The maze is open to the public on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Groups of 20 or more can reserve maze tours Tuesday through Friday. For more information, call (352) 383-6900 or log on to www.longandscottfarms.com.

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Podcasts aplenty!

Lake County Tourism & Business Relations recently released editions 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 and 34 of its podcast series.

The podcasts help to inform tourists and local visitors about attractions and events in Lake County, Fla. For a complete listing of all podcasts, log on to www.lakecountyfl.gov/enjoying_lake_county/podcasts.aspx.

Melon Patch Theatre

The Melon Patch Theatre is a community theatre located in Leesburg. This year marks its 60th anniversary providing the community with family-friendly theatrical productions such as musicals, comedies and plays. The theatre also has children’s productions under the name of Patchwork Productions, which will be featuring “Babes in Toyland” this season. The theatre will also feature a Christmas show titled “Melon Patch Family Christmas” opening in December 2010. For show schedule and tickets, log on to www.businessmasters.net/melonpatch.

Hansen’s World Wakeboard Center

The center has various training programs to help the competitive rider hone their skills. It caters to both amateurs and professionals with on-site lodging for camps and trainees. For more information, log on to www.worldwakeboardcenter.com.

Fishing Facilities in Lake County

Lake County features more than 1,000 named lakes with great facilities for both anglers and recreational boaters. Explore many different types of fishery habitats during any boating outing. There are also many opportunities to fish from shorelines at various parks, such as Hickory Point Recreational Facility on the Harris Chain of Lakes.

Lady of the Lakes Renaissance Faire

Go back in time to the 16th century during the Lady of the Lakes Renaissance Faire scheduled for Nov. 5-7 at Hickory Point Recreational Facility. The event features hundreds of legendary performers, a lively renaissance village, exciting entertainment and one-of-kind experiences from minstrels to jousters. Information about the event and tickets are available at www.lakerenfaire.com.

16th Annual Mount Dora Plant and Garden Fair

The Mount Dora Plant and Garden Fair is an annual event featuring an array of more than 12,000 flowers and plants. The festival is located Gilbert Park and is scheduled for Nov. 6. Admission is free. For more information, contact Christine Cole at (352) 729-2170.

4th Annual Veterans Salute Ride

Join in the fun and be part of a great Veterans’ Day tribute to those that serve and have served our country. The 4th Annual Veterans Salute, held on Nov. 6, honors all U.S. veterans and benefits the Disabled American Veterans organization. The event will begin at 10 a.m. at Gator Harley-Davidson in Leesburg with breakfast and various organizations. With a police-escorted ride to Stormy Hill Harley-Davidson, the festivities continue with a live auction and lunch. For event details and a line-up of the day’s activities, visit www.gatorharley.com

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Bicyclists gear up for annual festival

Attracting more than a thousand cyclists, the 36^th Annual Mount Dora Bicycle Festival, scheduled for Oct. 8-10, is Florida’s oldest and largest bicycling event.

With rides of varying lengths and skill levels, cyclists of all ages come visit Mount Dora each year to tour the rolling countryside of Lake County. The first ride is on Friday, Oct. 8, at 8 a.m. First rides on Saturday, Oct. 9, and Sunday, Oct. 10, are at 7:30 a.m.

According to the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce Web site at www.mountdora.com/bikefest/, this year’s event promises to be the best yet as the City is celebrating its centennial. The Mount Dora Bicycle Festival takes full advantage of the roads and scenery of Lake County, which is recognized as one of the finest locations in the state and the country to ride. It’s no coincidence that collegiate and pro level cyclists and tri-athletes choose to train here.

As in previous years, this year’s event will feature rides from 5 to 100 miles in length, with options for all skill levels. Below is a schedule of rides. For more information, call the Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce at (352) 383-2165 or log on to www.mountdora.com.

Unmarked “on your own” rides with maps available in the baggage room at registration area:

• Lake Dora Loop 24.2 miles
• Lake Gertrude Ride 5.1 miles
• Renninger’s Antiques & Flea Market Ride 4 miles

FRIDAY, OCT. 8

• 8 a.m. — Emeralda Marsh Madness (47 miles) Scenic ride with some rolling hills.
• 9:30 a.m. — Clearwater Lake Picnic Ride (45 miles) Generally flat ride to the Ocala National Forest for a picnic
• 10 a.m. — Thrill Hill (18 miles) Ride through rural countryside with a few gently rolling hills and roller coaster thrill hill.
• 10:30 a.m. — Mission Inn Brunch ride; (42 miles) additional fee required for the meal
• 1 p.m. — Ray’s Round Lake Ride (21 miles) A country ride past nurseries & horse farms.
• 2 p.m. — I Climbed Mount Dora (12 miles) Short ride with lots of hills. See why we call it Mount Dora!.
• 2:30 p.m. — Trimble Park (5 miles) An easy bike ride

SATURDAY, OCT. 9

• 7:30 a.m. — CPR Century (100 miles) A scenic century that rolls through rural farm lands in northern lake before heading south into the hills.
• 7:50 a.m. — Emeralda Island Wander (62 miles) Metric century that follows northern part of the Century. Returns to home before the hills.
• 9 a.m. — Yalaha Bakery Ride (55 miles) Ride to an incredible German bakery. Work off your pastries on way back.
• 9:30 a.m. — King’s Landing Ride and canoeing (29.8 miles) A country ride past nurseries & horse farms to Kelly Park. (additional fee for canoe)
• 10 a.m. — Sun Cycle/Trek Bicycle Breast Cancer Awareness Ride; Separate fee donation to participate in this ride. May sign up the day of the event.
• 10:30 a.m. — I Climbed Mount Dora (12 miles) Short ride with lots of hills. See why we call it Mount Dora!
• 1 p.m. — Ray’s Round Lake Ride (21 miles) A country ride past nurseries & horse farms.
• 1:30 p.m. — Scott’s Farm Corn maize (14 miles) Ride out to the farm and have a snack, then tour the corn maize.
• 2 p.m. — Mystery Dessert Ride (4 miles) Family ride with desert is on us.
• 3 p.m. — Poker Ride to the Mount Dora Brewery (5 miles) Limited to first 52 riders. Best hand wins.

SUNDAY, OCT. 10

• 8 a.m. — Battle of Buckhill (61 miles) A challenging ride through the Clermont hills Buckhill, Grassy Lake and the backside of Sugarloaf.
• 8:30 a.m. — Assault on Sugarloaf (40 miles) A flat ride until you have to tackle Sugarloaf and “The Wall” two of the most challenging hills in Florida.
• 9 a.m. — Ray’s Round Lake Ride (21 miles) A country ride past nurseries & horse farms.
• 9:30 a.m. — Thrill Hill (18 miles) Ride through rural countryside with a few gently rolling hills and roller coaster thrill hill.
• 10 a.m. Scott’s Farm Corn maize (14 miles) Ride out to the farm and have a snack, then tour the corn maize.

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New edition of online magazine features Lake County tourism spots

The newest edition of Hometown Highlights is available online for travel writers and tourists interested in learning more about Lake County, Fla.

From Central Florida’s first dog bakery, to an up-and-coming pub that is brewing success, there’s plenty to do and see in Lake County. The online magazine Hometown Highlights provides insight to some of the most best-kept secrets in Lake County. Four new articles were recently introduced to the online feature at www.lakecountyfl.com/hometown_highlights/. The following excerpts are from each new article.

Mount Dora Brewing & Rocking Rabbit Brewery— What happens when a master woodworker hangs up his hammer and unplugs his lathe? Naturally, the skilled artisan tries his hand creating other works of art. Instead of refinishing antiques, these days Jeff Herbst, owner of Mount Dora Brewing and Rocking Rabbit Brewery, is perfecting the finish on his collection of handcrafted ales.

Piglet’s Pantry —When your furry companion needs a cookie break, “paws” at the corner of Fourth Avenue and Donnelly Street in downtown Mount Dora and gaze upon the largest selection of all-natural, homemade dog treats in the southeast. Piglet’s Pantry started inconspicuously enough: Carla and Edson Pereira were searching for something to satisfy their finicky canine, Piglet.

The Gourmet Spot — To achieve perfection in a meal, one must start with fine ingredients. Consider The Gourmet Spot in downtown Mount Dora as a good place to start when searching for the best of specialty food products. Owner Trish Morgan explains what makes the products in her store gourmet is the quality of ingredients that are used, how they are prepared in small batches and, most importantly, their handcrafted taste is packed full of flavor.

The Drawer Ltd. — While the world of fashion is always changing, one constant in trendy styles is at The Drawer Ltd. in downtown Mount Dora. For 41 years, those interested in the latest style have frequented The Drawer Ltd. The shop began as a needlepoint shop, but through the decades has evolved into an all-encompassing shop of chic threads, jewelry and beauty products.

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Having trouble spotting ‘Treble’?

Amanda Higgins, a graphic artist and photographer from Altoona, Fla., created the winning design of the "Looking for Treble" public art contest.

Organizers of the Mount Dora Music Fest recently announced a unique “prelude” to their event that is scheduled to kick off its 14^th performance on Feb. 17-20, 2011.

This cool sculpture, “Treble,” will be placed in different locations throughout the city leading up to the Music Fest. Visitors to downtown Mount Dora are invited to look for “Treble” in various shops, restaurants and businesses. Spot “Treble” and enter a contest to win tickets to the Saturday night concert of the Mount Dora Music Fest featuring The Lovin’ Spoonful.

The contest kicks off Sept. 3 and clues to the weekly location of “Treble” are available online at www.mountdoramusicfest.com.

Below is the news release from the Mount Dora Music Fest.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 28, 2010
Contact: Nancy Howell, Executive Director (352) 383-2627

Mount Dora Music Festival Celebrates ‘Looking For Treble’ Public Art Contest Winner
And the Search Continues with Part Two of the ‘Looking for Treble’ Contest…

MOUNT DORA: An Artist Reception was held Friday, August 27, at the Mount Dora Center for the Arts as Mount Dora Music Festival directors and supporters honored graphic artist / photographer Amanda Higgins of Altoona, the grand prize winner in the festival’s ‘Looking For Treble’ public art contest.

Referring to the winning artwork, contest judge Kathy Pagan, Lake County liaison to the Arts and Cultural Alliance, noted that “The artistic design is very graceful with an airy, whimsical tone that perfectly captures the fun, entertainment, and momentum of the Music Festival.”

Pat Nelson, chairwoman of the Mount Dora Music Festival, expressed her enthusiasm for Higgins’ work as well. “We are very pleased with this exciting image Amanda has created for the festival,” she said. “It perfectly captures music and art!”

The full-scale treble clef will be on display at the Mount Dora Center for the Arts until September 2, 2010. Measuring 55” high by 24” wide, the artistic sculpture is constructed on PVC board covered in vinyl. The image will serve as a promotional symbol for the Music Festival in the months leading up to the event February 17 – 20, 2011.

The Music Festival awarded Higgins a grand prize package that included a $150 cash honorarium and two VIP tickets to the Saturday night showcase concert featuring ‘The Lovin’ Spoonful.’ She also received $100 Dora Dollars from the Mount Dora Village Merchants and Business Association, a $100 wine gift basket from Maggie’s Attic, and a $100 gift certificate from Tremain Street Cottages.

The Mount Dora Music Festival in partnership with the Mount Dora Village Merchants and Business Association will continue the ‘Looking for Treble’ contest with a new twist. Phase two invites contestants to go in search of the artistic musical icon to win tickets to the Saturday night concert. Each Friday by 12 noon, from September 3, 2010 until February 11, 2011, ‘Treble’ will move to random locations throughout the village.

Contestants are invited to look for ‘Treble’ in various shops, restaurants and businesses. ‘Treble’ can be anywhere on Donnelly Street from 7th to 3rd Avenues and from McDonald to Baker Streets in the downtown corridor.

Clues to each location where ‘Treble’ can be spotted will be highlighted on the Mount Dora Music Fest website (www.mountdoramusicfest.com) and on its Facebook Fan Page at Mount Dora Music Fest – Looking for Treble. For convenience, the same clues will be posted on the entry box by the artwork. The first clue will be posted at the Center for the Arts.

When ‘Treble’ is spotted, contestants must complete an entry form and drop it in the Music Festival Contest box. Each week the entry forms will be picked up and recorded. Contestants are limited to one entry per person/per week and the person with the most number of sightings and qualified entries at the end of the contest will win two general admission tickets to the Saturday night showcase performance of ‘The Lovin’ Spoonful.’ The concert will be held February 19, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. at the Mount Dora Community Center. The winner and a guest will have special reserved seating and an opportunity to meet the band after the show.

In the event of a tie, there will be a drawing of the top entries. All entries will be saved until after the contest prize has been awarded. The winner of the contest will be notified on Monday, February 14, 2011 by 5:00 pm.
Directors and staff of the Mount Dora Music Festival and their family members are not eligible to enter.

After the contest, ‘Treble’ will be featured during the festival as part of a silent auction and the highest bidder will be announced February 19, 2011 prior to the concert. All proceeds benefit the Mount Dora Music Festival, a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization that relies on corporate contributions, personal donations and sponsorships. If you would like to gift the Music Festival, become a sponsor or would like more information on festival events, contact executive director Nancy Howell at (352) 383-2627.

Tickets to ‘The Lovin’ Spoonful’ are on sale now, $35 advance/$40 at the door. A limited number of $75 VIP tickets and discounted group rates are available. To purchase tickets on-line via credit card or Paypal, visit www.mountdoramusicfest.com, or call our hotline at (352) 385-1010 or (352) 383-2627.

Have Fun and Happy Hunting!!!

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Low-cost fall happenings

This fall Lake County comes alive with loads of low-cost family fun.

Next time you are looking to get the family out the house without spending tons of money, consider one of these upcoming events.

For a complete list of events and festivals happening in Lake County, log on to Online Events Calendar at www.lakecountyfl.gov/calendar.

Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27; Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24 – Cagan Crossings Farmer’s Market, 16554 Crossings Blvd., Clermont

Only minutes away from Disney World, this farmer’s market on every Wednesday of the month features fresh produce and fruits, baked goods, homemade jams, jellies, sauces and local honey. Classes, specialty vendors and artists rotate weekly. More info: (352) 242-2444 ext. 206; jkelly@cagan.com; www.cagancrossings.com

Sept. 3, Oct. 1, Nov. 5 – First Friday Street Fest, downtown Eustis

Visit downtown Eustis for this street party. Each month, three stages are filled with some of the area’s best musical entertainment. Visitors can also check out the downtown shops, restaurants and art vendors. The event also includes a kid’s area and plenty of food vendors with soft drinks, beer, wine and margaritas. More info: (352) 357-8555; events@eustismainstreet.org; www.eustismainstreet.org

Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 14 – Lake County Musician’s Swap Meet, Renninger’s Antiques Center, Mount Dora

The Lake County Musician’s Swap Meet takes place on the second Sunday of each month and brings together dealers, collectors, musicians and the public. More info: (352) 735-0025; livecfl@me.com; www.livecfl.com

Sept. 24-Oct. 24 – Industrial Strength: Jason Burrell, Lake Eustis Museum of Art

Burrell, a University of Central Florida art professor, meticulously draws and paints the metal, brawn and bricks that build a city and a society. His large two-dimensional works, many giving a unique perspective on New York City, are compliment by an animate feature that offers insight into his artistry as his works evolve on the video screen. More info: (352) 483-2900; lodensusan@gmail.com; www.lakeeustismuseumofart.org

Oct. 8-10 – 36th Annual Bicycle Festival, downtown Mount Dora

Attracting 1,000 cyclists, this is Florida’s oldest and largest bicycling event. With rides of varying lengths and skill levels, cyclists of all ages come to see why Lake County is recognized as one of the best places in the world to ride. More info: (352) 383-2165; marketing@mountdora.com; www.mountdora.com

Oct. 9-10 – 13th Annual Lake County Folk Festival, downtown Eustis

The festival features seven music venues, art vendors and food court. Some of Florida’s best festival performers will attend. More info: (352) 357-8555; events@eustismainstreet.org; www.eustismainstreet.org

Oct. 9-10 – Vintage Venture, Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, Clermont

There is nothing better than a Vintage Car Show to bring back nostalgia. These special gems from the past are a must-see and you can also enjoy a variety of live vintage 50′s and 60′s music by top class performers on the outdoor stage. Lakeridge wine, beer, soft drinks and a variety of food will be available for purchase, along with complimentary Winery tours and wine tasting. More info: 1-800-768-WINE; www.lakeridgewinery.com

Oct. 16-17 – Fifth Art in the Park, 106 S. U.S. Highway 441/27, Lady Lake

This event is held at the Historic Log Cabin Park and streets around the park. More info: (352) 344-0657; tnteventsinc@embarqmail.com; www.tnteventsinc.com

Oct. 23-24 – 26^th Annual Mount Dora Craft Fair

The Mount Dora Village Merchants & Business Association proudly presents the Annual Craft Fair. This event is ranked a Top 100 Craft Fair in the country and is attended by more than 200,000 enthusiasts from all over the state. More info: contact@mtdora.org; www.mtdora.org

Oct. 29-Dec. 5 – Myth, Magic & Madness: Doug Rhodehamel, Lake Eustis Museum of Art

Myth, Magic & Madness: Doug Rhodehamel opens Oct. 29. The exhibit closes Dec. 5. This conceptual artist covers the planet with paper mushrooms. He transforms ordinary objects into uniquely dark versions of Frankenstein’s monster and installs an eclectic mix fine art tricks to treat art lovers. More info: (352) 483-2900; lodensusan@gmail.com; www.lakeeustismuseumofart.org 

Nov. 6-7 – 16th Mount Dora Plant & Garden Fair, Simpson Cove in Mount Dora

Savvy gardeners wait ’til summer’s heat is over to restore liveliness to their gardens. They come to the Fair for every type of plant for the landscape (including native and Florida-friendly plants) the herb garden or tropical accents. Seventy-five exhibitors also bring pots, garden furniture and gourmet items. More info: (352) 729-2170; cbcole2448@aol.com

Nov. 13 – Lake County Green Fair, Wooton Park in Tavares

This one-day event is intended to present educational programs and informative displays that highlight best practices in environmental issues to the community. Exhibits will provide information, ideas, resources and products to live more sustainably. More info: (352) 343-9647; www.lakecountyfl.gov/greenfair

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Mount Dora looks to make Labor Day weekend special

The City of Mount Dora is celebrating Labor Day weekend with a host of activities in its popular historic downtown on the shore of Lake Dora.

The Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce is calling the celebration an “End of the Summer Blowout.” The blowout begins with “Sip, Shop & Save Sidewalk Sale” on Friday, Sept. 3, and Saturday, Sept. 4, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sunday, Sept. 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A chili cook-off and pie-baking contest are scheduled for Saturday from 2 to 6 p.m. A water sports demonstration is also set for Saturday from 2 to 6 p.m. on Lake Dora.

The Insecurities will provide live music at Grantham Point on Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m. The live entertainment is the prelude to a grand fireworks display scheduled for Saturday at 8 p.m.

All events are free, except the chili cook-off costs $5 per person. For more information, contact the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce at (352) 383-2165 or log on to www.mountdora.com.

Sponsors of the event include the City of Mount Dora, Mount Dora Community Trust, Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce, Mount Dora Village Merchants & Business Association, Mount Dora Boating Center & Marina, Rotary Club of Mount Dora, Liquid Sports and The Daily Commercial.

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Florida Highwaymen artists return to Mount Dora

Florida’s historic landscape artists, known as The Florida Highwaymen, will be returning to Mount Dora for the Fifth Highwaymen Art Show & Sale on Friday, Aug. 13, through Sunday, Aug. 15.

Participating in this event will be original Highwaymen: Curtis Arnett, Al Black, Mary Ann Carroll, James Gibson, Issac Knight, Robert Lewis, John Maynor, Roy McLendon, Willie Reagan, Carnell Smith, Charles Walker and Sylvester Wells.

On Friday, the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce will host a “Meet and Greet” with the artists from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Chamber’s Historic Train Station, located at 341 N. Alexander St. Refreshments and light appetizers will be served. Admission is free.

The Florida Highwaymen will display and sell their artwork on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. inside and outside of the Donnelly Building in Donnelly Park, located in the center of Mount Dora. Visitors can enjoy the scenic renderings of Florida’s landscape expressed in the classic Highwaymen art style.

On Saturday night, take part in a one-of-a-kind opportunity to dine with the Florida Highwaymen artists at the Beauclaire Restaurant at Lakeside Inn while they collaborate on an original painting during dinner. One lucky attendee will be taking the painting home as a door prize. For more information, call Lakeside Inn at (352) 383-4101.

The Fifth Highwaymen Art Show & Sale is presented by Heron Cay Lakeview Bed & Breakfast, with cosponsoring by Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce, Mount Dora Village Merchant’s & Business Association and City of Mount Dora; and sponsored in part by: Grand Rental Station, Mount Dora Community Trust, Sharp Design, WhatToDoInMountDora.com, GlassCat Design, Renninger’s Twin Markets and PULSE Magazine. The Lake County Tourism & Business Relations Division provided printing. Margie Salyer and Randy Burgener are coordinating the Fifth Highwaymen Art Show & Sale.

For more information, log on to www.heroncay.com or whattodoinmountdora.com, or contact Randy Burgener at (352) 383-4050 or toll free at 1-888-437-6622.

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Learn how ‘green’ is paying dividends for toursim industry

The Second Annual Green Symposium is scheduled for Thursday, July 29, and Friday, July 30.

The two-day workshop at Mission Inn Resort & Club in Howey-in-the-Hills features two dozen presenters and three keynote speakers discussing environmental topics and how they are influencing business.

Lake County Tourism & Business Relations is moderating the “Green Tourism” panel on Friday from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The presenters for this panel include Tavares Mayor Robert Wolfe, Bud Beucher Vice President and General Manager of Mission Inn and Cathy Hoechst, Executive Director of the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce.

The news release, below, from the Lake County Green Team has more details.

Three ways to attend Green Symposium next week

There are three ways to attend the Second Annual Green Symposium on Thursday, July 29, and Friday, July 30, at Mission Inn Resort & Club.

Register for the two-day workshop for $100. Cost includes breakfast Friday morning, lunch on Thursday and Friday and a banquet Thursday evening. View entire agenda and register at www.lakecountyfl.gov/greensymposium (11.75 AICP credits pending). A variety of environmentally friendly initiatives in different industries will be discussed including energy conservation, green job creation, green transportation, water consumption policy, green tourism, natural waste to power, waste stream reduction and sustainable communities.

Choose to attend one of the lunches or dinner banquet to hear keynote speakers at a discounted rate of $25 per lunch or $50 for the banquet. Register at www.lakecountyfl.gov/greensymposium.

• Thursday lunch: Billy Hattaway, Managing Director for Transportation at Vanasse Hangen Brustlin
• Thursday banquet: Daniel Parker, Assistant Division Director of Environmental Health, Florida Department of Health
• Friday lunch: Doug Alderson, author of New Dawn for the Kissimmee River: Orlando to Okeechobee by Kayak, The Ghost Orchid Ghost and Other Tales from the Swamp, and Waters Less Traveled: Exploring Florida’s Big Bend Coast.

Attend free homeowner’s educational workshops on Thursday. No registration is necessary.

• 9:15 a.m. — Florida Friendly Landscaping with Charles Fedunak, Lake County Extension
• 10 a.m. — Homeowner Maintenance for Wells and Septic Systems with Paul Butler and Jerry Brown from the Lake County Health Department
• 10:45 a.m. — Water Conservation with Gregg Welstead, Lake County Department of Conservation & Compliance
• 1:15 p.m. — Natural Living with Natural Skin Care Expert Claudia Virga, Organic Gardner Joy Scroggie and Nurse Practitioner Joanne Keller
• 2:30 p.m. — Residential Energy Efficiency with John McCarthy, Lowe’s
• 3:15 p.m. — Energy Efficiency Retrofitting with Tommy Mydlo, Regency Lighting

The Lake County Green Symposium is sponsored by Shaw Environmental & Infrastructure Inc., Waste Management, Lake-Sumter Metropolitan Planning Organization, Florida Department of Health, Covanta Energy, First Green Bank, Florida Planning & Zoning Association, Lake County Board of County Commissioners, Mission Inn Resort & Club and Lake County Green Team.

For more information, log on to www.lakecountyfl.gov/greensymposium or call (352) 343-9647.

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