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Lakeside Inn News
June 2013
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Greetings!
June is here, the magnolias still have their flowers and the crepe myrtles are just starting to bloom. The days are long and getting hot, so the pool area is an increasingly popular place to be. This is indeed a great time of the year to be here in Mount Dora. All these huge oak trees cast really long shadows and the onshore breeze coming from Lake Dora is helpful in keeping the air from becoming too hot and heavy. Pretty soon the very dependable afternoon rain showers will be here and they, too, will help cool things down. I know that a lot of people battle the heat and often flee north, but I actually enjoy the heat. Wardrobe decisions are simplified - shorts and flip flops suit me nicely. Besides, what would be the point in complaining. Better to put another ice cube in the glass, grab a cool shady seat beneath one of these big, beautiful oaks, enjoy the breeze and wait for the rain.
We have been quite busy since my last update. And while I know it probably gets tiresome reading about what we fixed, painted, or repaired... it gives me a bit of satisfaction simply giving the report. Of course, I'm also becoming that guy that you want to run from when you see me coming down the street or across the room. Give me a polite "hello" and before you know it, you're hearing all about SEER ratings on heat pumps and the best way to get a latex paint to bond to a wood surface that has only ever known oil based products. Okay, maybe I'm not that bad, but I think I'm getting close.
We have a lot of fun activities planned for the months ahead. At the top of the list are our Summer Lawn Concerts & Street Paloozas. Below, you will find a listing of all the dates and information on the paloozas... including a loose definition. I hope you will have the chance to visit us soon and often. Cheers,
Jim
 
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Vegas Baby! That's right, Stacy took a field trip. Okay, I guess it was more of a business/conference type trip, with friend and artist, Judie. Several days of seminars and a trade show geared toward retailers. No, Buddy didn't get to go - somebody had to watch the shop... and I got to watch Buddy. I'm sure it was fun and informative. Of course when I think of Vegas, I think of the movie Hangover. I'm sure none of that sort of stuff actually happened on Stacy's trip... but who knows, after all, "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas".
There will be a meet-the-artist wine and cheese reception on Friday, June 14th from 6-8 PM, in conjunction with the 2nd Friday Mount Dora Gallery Walk. This Gallery Walk will be somewhat special, as it will mark the one year anniversary of this fun monthly event. To commemorate, Stacy is featuring four of the artists from this past year that helped make these walks so special. The artists are... Sharon Osterholt, Lynn Herrick, Josephine Leyte-Vidal and Judie Lee
Tour The Gatehouse Gallery
Gallery Walk Video
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I just felt the need to include this banner randomly as a reminder that we are indeed celebrating a pretty big anniversary this year.
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Renovation Update
We're continuing to chug along, with guest rooms and public areas remaining the priority. I''ll be the first to admit that there is still sooo much to do... which reminds me of the old riddle... "how do you eat an elephant"? The answer of course being "one bite at a time". Our bites this month have included several more guest rooms, including one in the Lakeside Building that had been taken out of service years ago and used as an office at one point, then later as a storage room.
We have completed the wall repairs and painting of the second floor corridor in the Lakeside Building. The slight unevenness of the flooring you may feel will be addressed eventually, but now is simply not the time. It is nothing terribly complicated, just a repair of a poorly done repair... the entire length of the hallway. But, there are simply other priorities right now. We will, however, get back to it in the near future.
We are also continuing with our AC replacement program. As I think I shared previously, this project is a biggie. Not only a very costly project, but also fairly technical project. I can assure you that I know a heck of a lot more about heat pump mini splits now than I did last year, or the year before.
A lot of changes and improvements continue to happen with our landscaping. There are a couple of projects planned this summer that we feel will have a very positive visual impact, so we are anxious to get started on these. I hope they will be obvious to you on your next visit.
That is about all the news on the renovation front - I suppose it's time to take another bite of that elephant.
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Palm Island Boardwalk
Last month saw the completion of the Palm Island Boardwalk, which is only a 10 minute walk from the Inn... just past the lighthouse. The City staff members involved in this project did a great job in designing and reconstructing this wonderful lakefront asset. The beautiful and very durable Ipe wood that was used for the boardwalk itself, will ensure that it is here for a very long time.
The boardwalk is more elevated than the old structure it replaced, giving a much more expansive view of the lake and the shore line. Two covered seating and viewing areas were added, providing great spots to stop, relax and absorb the beautiful surroundings.
Two sections of the walk take you out over the lake, while one section winds through the wooded area, consisting of very large cypress and pine trees interspersed among the native palms. There are also areas where you can step off the boardwalk and walk through sections of the woods on a couple of short, wide trails. This is a wonderfully restored asset and should be on your list of things to enjoy the next time you are in Mount Dora.
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Summer Lawn Concerts & Street Paloozas...
The first concert of our summer series kicks off on Saturday, June 15, with the original music of The Bonazzoli Band and its unique blend of rock, country, swing and blues. The Bonazzoli Band has released six full-length albums, scored music for several films and is preparing for the release of its seventh album later this year. The band will take the stage at 7:30 PM, but plan to arrive early and enjoy the Lakeside Inn Street Palooza. The Inn's Street Paloozas are a gathering of artists, artisans, face painters, balloon tiers, street performers, grilled food items, drinks, ice cream and even a bubble machine. A palooza is defined as an all-out party, and this family-friendly street party will start at 5:30 PM.
The remaining summer line-up will feature a selection of some Florida's most talented emerging groups.
plus Fireworks!
Our Summer Lawn Concerts & Street Paloozas are free and open to the public. Everyone is invited to bring a lawn chair or blanket, but please no coolers. We do ask that all those attending please bring a non-perishable food donation or cash contribution for the Lake Cares Food Pantry, whose representatives will be on hand to provide information and accept donations to their worthy organization.
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I'll let you in on a little secret - Mount Dora is a great place to visit in the summer. It must be the cool mountain air we enjoy here at 184 feet above sea level. The elevation, plus our large shady oaks, the sea breeze off Lake Dora, our swimming pool and great summer rates, all contribute to make this a very comfortable place for a summer get-a-way. Plus, for most Floridians, getting to Mount Dora is a relatively short and painless drive. Once here, your driving is done, because everything is just a stroll away.
This summer we are launching our Florida Residents Get-a-Way Rate. Easy to understand, and easy to secure... all you need is a proof of residency - even part-time residency. We look forward to welcoming you to the Inn throughout the summer and hope you will take advantage of this seasonal savings.
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Three for 300
With two more holiday weekends this summer (July 4th and Labor Day), there is still time to take advantage of our Three for 300 Summer Holiday Package. Its quite simple... three nights for a total $300, including tax.
Q: How much?
A: $300.
Q: How many nights?
A: Three.
Q: Yeah, but what about all the taxes?
A: None... they're all included.
Q: Is it really that simple?
A: Yes.
Q: What if I want to stay four nights?
A: The rate on the 4th night and beyond, will be just as special.
To make your reservation, simply visit the reservations section of our website and enter 343 in the promotional rate code box located on the reservation page. We'll see you in July.
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We recently introduced the new dinner menu for The Beauclaire Dining Room. The menu has a distinct southern flare with such items as a blacked redfish, chicken and dumplings, a southern-styled fish & chips and a delicious, juicy burger topped with pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes and more. All entrees are accompanied also by equally interesting side dishes. In addition, we also lowered the prices, with each item now priced at under $20.
We hope you have the chance to come and give it a try... and if you do, we'll throw in a glass of wine. Just bring this little coupon thingy below, so our servers will know how to treat the charge.
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Complimentary Glass of House Wine with the Purchase of a Beauclaire Dinner Entree.
June Newsletter Coupon
Expires: October 31, 2013
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School Reunions
This was the spring for class mini-reunions here at the Inn. Among them were reuning classmates from Phillips Exeter Academy, Amherst College, University of the South (Sewanee), Purdue University and Stetson University. The Inn was perfectly suited to their needs for a location that provided a comfortable and relaxing experience with plenty of warm winter weather. Things went so well that plans are already in the works for reuniting again next year. Think of Lakeside Inn when talking with classmates from around the country: Mount Dora and the "campus" of Lakeside Inn provide the perfect setting and (and geographic location) for reconnecting with old friends.
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Lakeside Inn History
In the early days of the Inn, it was not uncommon for as many as 80% of the guests to be repeat, any number of which might stay for the entire winter season, which typically ran from mid-December through mid-April. These guests would get the same room every year, would sit at the same table for both breakfast and dinner and would typically have the same waitress. Back in those days, there were seldom children at the Inn, except around holidays or during the spring vacations period when children and grandchildren were at times invited down by those "seasonal guests". As you might imagine, occasionly strong bonds developed between guests and various members of the staff. On two separate occasions, wealthy couples left sizable fortunes to hotel employees.
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Save the Date!
July 4th
A small town celebration of Independence Day. A parade, live music and fireworks over Lake Dora.
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July 13th
Assisted Living, the musical comes to town for one show only at the Mount Dora Community Building. For ticket information for this hilarious performance, visit sex, drugs and getting old!
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August 10th & 11th
Florida Highwaymen visit Mount Dora for a collective show and sale of their original works.
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October 11th - 13th
39th Annual Mount Dora Bicycle Festival
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October 26th & 27th
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Summer Lawn Concerts & Street Paloozas
Our Summer Lawn Concerts will resume in June. This year, in addition to the concerts, we will be featuring a street palooza before and throughout each performance The concerts and the paloozas are free of charge, we simply ask that a non-perishable food item or cash donation be made to the Lake Cares Food Pantry. Representatives will be on site to collect donations and provide information on the GREAT work being done by this volunteer based organization - they are helping a lot of individuals and families in need, here in our own community.
The street palooza will begin at 5:30 PM and the concerts will begin at 7:30 PM. Both will conclude at 9:30 PM.
The concert line-up for this summer is...
October 19th
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For the most up to the minute information on events and activities here in Mount Dora, visit:
and/or
Herbie Update
All appears to be well with Herbie. He continues to pose for pictures - feeding time is particularly popular. When he is not happy his squawks can practically be heard in the lobby.
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Upcoming Events
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Every Sunday
Acoustic Jam
Join us in Tremain's Tavern every Sunday afternoon from 4-6 PM for lively Bluegrass music preformed by John French and friends.
Every Sunday
Mount Dora Village Market
Located just steps from the Inn at Evans Park, from 9 AM - 2 PM. Fresh produce, seafood, honey, cheese and more. Visit Mount Dora Village Market for complete information.
June 8th
Welcome to the Water Expo
A full day of boating-related activities, information and safety, all taking place at the Mount Dora Boating Center and Marina located just a block from the Inn. Please visit Welcome to Lake Dora for complete information.
June 12th
Tremain's Tavern
Special performances by visiting guitarist Alan Rhody, from 5-8 PM. FREE.
June 14th
Second Friday Gallery Walk
This is fun and relaxing way to visit the many galleries in downtown Mount Dora and meet both gallery owners and artists. The Gallery Walk is from 6-8 PM.
June 15th
Summer Lawn Concert & Street Palooza
The fun begins at 5:30 PM with the Lakeside Inn Street Palooza and gets even better starting at 7:30 PM when The Bonazzolli Band takes the stage. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy a fun evening at the Inn. Grilled food items and a full bar will be available.
June 15th - 16th
Antiques Fair at Renningers
A weekend of many more dealers and many more antiques. Visit Renningers Twin Markets for complete information.
June 20th
Tremain's Tavern
A special performance by folk and blues artist Joel Zoss, from 5-8 PM. FREE.
June 22nd
Budweiser Mud Fest
A muddy, fun day at Renninger's Twin Markets
June 29th
Renowned Mentalist Paul Cozen
An evening of comedy, magic and mind games, starting at 8:00 PM in the Mount Dora Community Building. Visit Paul Cozen for ticket information.
July 4th
Independence Day Celebrations
The day begins it a traditional parade down Donnelly Street at 10 AM. Then later that evening enjoy the fireworks display over Lake Dora. Please visit the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce or call (352) 383-2165 for complete information on this fun and festive day.
July 6th
American Ghost Adventures
July 14th
Lakeside Chamber Players
A celebration of Bastille Day with chamber music here at the Inn from 2:30- 4:00 PM. FREE.
A fun way to watch the fireworks this year is aboard one of the boats of Premier Boat Tours. Advance reservations are required, so don't wait. Contact them now to reserve your seat for the 4th of July Fireworks Cruise.
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Time...
Time - there never seems to be enough time, except when something seems to be taking forever. I keep thinking that there will be plenty of time to get something done, or time enough to go for that walk at the end of the day, but more often than not, time becomes the spoiler and the walk is missed and/or something is not completed. I keep thinking that I need to take time to enjoy the moment and appreciate all that we are accomplishing and how I should do a better job of documenting and recording the journey. But time always seems to get in the way. Quite frequently I am asked if I take time to sit in one of the rockers and enjoy the afternoon. I politely respond with something like "not as often as I would like"... but my mind is responding with, "are you kidding, I have no time for that". The truth is that I do have time for that, but like many folks, I convince myself otherwise... so I don't. What a mistake. How can you enjoy the journey if you don't take the time to appreciate twists and turns, the the hills and valleys. The Inn turned 130 years old this year. Unfortunately I can't slow the passage of time, and so, within a blink, we will be celebrating the Inn's 150th Anniversary. I certainly expect and hope to be part of that great day - time will tell. If I am that fortunate, I think I would like to watch it all unfold from one of the rockers at the far end of the Verandah. "There is more to life than simply increasing its speed." Mahatma Gandhi
I hope to see you soon.
Jim Gunderson
Keeper of the Inn
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130th Anniversary Rate
Throughout 2013 we will be celebrating the 130th Anniversary of Lakeside Inn. To help kick things off, we decided to feature a special rate $130, including a commemorative Lakeside Inn keepsake, to be available throughout the year. Availability, room type and additional inclusions could will vary by month and by season. Please click on this link, 130th Anniversary, to check the availability of this, or any of our other great rates and packages.
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Newsletter Special Rate
Special Newsletter Early Booking Rate for August and September of just $89. To check availability, simply click on Newsletter Special Rate and enter the code News in the promotional code box.
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| | Offer Expires: September 30, 2013 |
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