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Lakeside Inn News
July 2013
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Greetings!
I am pleased to report that we have been staying quite busy this summer. Actually, we have been going rather non-stop these past couple of months and it looks as if August will be equally as exciting. This month got rolling with a very busy July 4th weekend. The parade - yes, we participated, the fireworks, the great music and superb weather made for a memorable few days. All of which was on the heels of an outdoor concert we hosted for the benefit of Oklahoma Tornado Victims. The concert performers were all professional impersonators that gave their time and energy to this worthy endeavor. Their performances were all excellent. We were even treated to a Cirque-styled performance that was really spectacular... all right here at the Inn.
Then about ten days ago, in celebration of Bastille Day, we experienced an inspired Chamber performance of music by French Composers. This free concert was the first performance of the Lakeside Chamber Players, under the direction of the Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra lead Bassoonist, Janet Harris. The goal of this ensemble is to help bring great classical music to the Inn and Mount Dora, in a very real and approachable fashion. They also hope to raise funds to help support a children's music camp that is planned to begin in the summer of 2014. If that weren't enough, they also managed successfully to secure a great many donations and contributions for our local Lake Cares Food Pantry. The concert was a huge success and we look forward to their next performance here on August 18th. In between all of this activity it was our honor to host several weddings and other special events. We also managed to get a bunch of work done around the Inn. Right now we are staying pretty focused on the guest rooms, but we have also made some big landscaping strides and even rebuilt one of our large walk-in coolers in the kitchen. The cooler turned into a bigger project than anticipated - which is usually the case. But now that it is done, it is one more thing I can check off "the list". In closing this introduction, let me just say that I really appreciate the support the Inn continues to receive from everyone that reads this newsletter and/or stops by for a short visit. Personally, I believe the Inn is a bit like chicken soup for the soul. For anyone that cares about such things as touching and experiencing history, the Inn, or perhaps just the comfort in knowing that it is still here, is important. "Chicken soup for the soul"... hey, maybe we should put that on a tee-shirt. I hope to see you soon.
Cheers,
Jim
 
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Stacy has had a busy summer working with her many artists to bring their best work forward, to ensure the shop is continuing to feature work that is of the highest quality. She has also been coordinating with many of the other galleries and studios to create special and unique experiences during the Second Friday Gallery Walks here in the downtown area. Her efforts and those of others are helping to rekindle the once thriving arts community here in Mount Dora. Not that it ever went completely away... but the resurgence is not going unnoticed.
The next gallery walk is scheduled for Friday, August 9th, from 6-8 PM. Stacy will be hosting a Sangria and cheese, meet-the-artist reception that evening for featured artist Donna Cathcart, who will be exhibiting a collection of her hand painted porcelain.
Tour The Gatehouse Gallery
Gallery Walk Video
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Just in case you think 130 years wasn't such a long time ago, consider this. When the Inn was built, the Civil War had only been over for 18 years... and there were only 38 states. The following had yet to enter into statehood... North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, Alaska and Hawaii.
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Restoration Update
Work continues in meaningful ways. As I mentioned earlier, we are staying pretty focused on the guest rooms right now and will continue to do so through the remainder of the year. I may have discussed this before, but once done, we will start over. I expect round two to go much faster than this first pass, but we will also pick up many of the details we simply couldn't fully address in round one. What is certain, is that our rooms and public area will steadily improve, thus ensuring not just comfort, but also safeguarding the Inn for many more years.
Work on the air conditioning systems continues at about the pace I expected. Yes, I wish it were progressing faster, but then again I also wish I would win the lottery. If that were to occur, expect to see a pick up in the pace of installation. Landscaping improvements, however, are on a fast track. Dan, Angel and Alexandra are hard at it on a daily basis, with very obvious and impressive results. There is still much to do, but new and very positive results are being achieved on a daily basis. My meager contribution mainly consists of periodically running to Lowe's to pick up a load of mulch... or out to Green's Nursery for a load of new plants. Which I am more than happy to do if helps keep up the progress.
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Lakeside Chamber Players
I am very excited to be in a position to help support this group of talented, professional musicians from The Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra, in their efforts to give back to our community. Their first free concert was held here at the Inn on July 14th and featured works by French Composers... in the celebration of Bastille Day. The goals of this group are to raise awareness and support within the local area for classical music... which we hope will help lead to the support of talented local students, with limited financial resources. The further goal, is for a "needs blind" classical music camp to be held here on the grounds of the Inn beginning in the summer of 2014. Their performance on the 14th was spectacular. In addition to progressing on their primary goals, the group also managed to secure a healthy amount of donations for Lake Cares Food Pantry. It was indeed a wonderful and very successful day. The next concert is scheduled for Sunday, August 18th from 2:30 - 3:30 PM and is once again free. We do indeed hope that those who enjoy professionally played classical music and can appreciate the goals of these dedicated individuals will assist with support. Contributions for the goals of ensuring all qualified area students will be able to attend the 2014 music camp and further the development of their musical talents may be made to: Janet Harris DBA Lakeside Chamber Players 1004 West Fribley Street Tampa, FL 33603
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Summer Lawn Concerts & Street Paloozas...
Our second concert of the summer season was held this past Saturday night and featured a return performance by The Wholetones. On August 17th, we will be joined by popular bluegrass band, Southern Express Bluegrass Band Bluegrass Band, for what promises to be a fun, fun evening. 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 of 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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Mount Dora is a great place to visit in the summer. Our cool (184 feet above sea level) mountain air, combined with our large shady oaks and the afternoon sea breeze off Lake Dora, all contribute in making this a comfortable, easy-to-reach destination for most Floridians.
Though we are a little light on festivals throughout the summer, there are still plenty of great music and outdoor dining options, art strolls, gallery walks and community events. Plus, there is even more time to spend in a comfortable rocking chair.
This summer, take time to enjoy our Florida Residents Getaway 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 before the summer is over and hope you will take advantage of this seasonal savings.
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Three for 300
We created this offer as something special for the July 4th and Labor Day weekends. However, it proved so popular, we decided to make it available anytime now through the end of September. Perhaps its simplicity is what makes it so appealing - a three night stay for $300.
Q: What about taxes?
A: All included in the $300.
Q: What if I want to stay four nights?
A: The rate for the 4th night and beyond, will be just as special.
Q: Is it really that uncomplicated?
A: Yes.
Q: Does it include the overnight parking fee that many hotels charge these days?
A: They do? Wow, not to worry, we don't charge any guest for overnight parking.
So, as you can see, this is a very straightforward, easy to understand, easy to plan for, rate offer. You may book online by visiting the reservations section of our website and inserting 343 in the promotional box. You may also reserve by calling us at (800) 556-5016. We'll see you soon.
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The new dinner menu for The Beauclaire Dining Room continues to receive many positive comments. The menu has a distinct southern flare with such items as a blackened redfish, chicken and dumplings, a southern-styled fish & chips and a delicious, juicy burger topped with pimento cheese, fried green tomatoes and more. In addition to just plain tasting good, the menu is also very affordable, 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.
July Newsletter Coupon
Expires: October 31, 2013
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Weddings & More....
We are very pleased that the Inn continues to receive accolades as one of the nicest spots in Central Florida to get married. The history and charm, along with our beautiful sunsets, a knowledgeable and experienced banquet staff... and the added convenience of onsite lodging certainly all contribute to the success of these memorable events.
But weddings are not all that we do here. The Inn is becoming an increasingly popular destination for reunions of all types. Our centralized location within the state and easy access to the Orlando International Airport... as well as all things Disney. Not to mention the atmosphere of Mount Dora and the wide variety of activities available, which are guaranteed to suit the interests of everyone attending.
So... if you have a special event, or are thinking about organizing a reunion, please give us a call and either Kim Chambers or Angela Barrow will be pleased to answer any initial questions you may have and then help you through the planning process. Both Kim and Angela may be reached by calling (800) 556-5016.
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Lakeside Inn History
Perhaps the staff member with the longest length of employment at Lakeside Inn was a woman named Jessie Mae Reese. She worked at the Inn from 1928, until the Inn was sold by the Edgerton family in 1980. She continued in the Edgerton's personal employ until 1989.
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Save the Date!
August 10th & 11th
Florida Highwaymen visit Mount Dora for a collective show and sale of their original works.
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October 4th - 6th
October 11th - 13th
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October 26th & 27th
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November 2nd & 3rd
19th Annual Mount Dora Plant & Garden Fair
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November 2nd & 3rd
10th Annual Lake and Hills Garden Club Gardens Tour
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November 15th - 17th
Summer Lawn Concerts & Street Paloozas
Our Summer Lawn Concerts are in full swing. This year, in addition to the concerts, we will are 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 the remainder of 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.
August 3rd - 4th
Steam Punk Industrial Show
Renninger's Twin Markets will be hosting this retro-futuristic vision of the 19th Century. Visit Steam Punk Industrial Show for complete information.
August 9th
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.
August 9th - 10th
American Ghost Adventures
August 10th - 11th
Florida Highwaymen Art Exhibit and Sale
An opportunity to meet a number of the original Florida Highwaymen during this weekend
-ong exhibit and sale. Visit Mount Dora Art for complete information.
August 17th
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 Southern Express 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.
August 17th - 18th
Antiques Fair at Renninger's
A weekend of many more dealers and many more antiques. Visit Renninger's Twin Markets for complete information.
August 18th
Lakeside Chamber Players
A FREE chamber concert will be held here at the Inn from 2:30 - 3:30 PM. American music will be featured. Though the concert is free, we do request that a donation of a non-perishable food item or cash donation be brought for the Lake Cares Food Pantry.
August 19th
Lakeside Inn Town Hall Series
Join us at 5:30 for an open presentation and discussion on The State of the Nation by Congressman Daniel Webster, representing the 10th District of Florida. This event is free and open to the public.
September 7th - 8th
Where Women Create
A weekend of crafting, seminars and exhibitors to be held at Renninger's Twin Markets. Visit Where Women Create for complete information.
the natural beauty of Lake Dora and the famed Dora Canal. Daily guided tours depart from our dock here at the Inn for the two hour tour. A shorter, sunset tour is also available. Please visit Premier Boat Tours for complete information. |
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Remembrance...
Sometimes events in life are just plain sad. Especially so, when it comes to the loss of someone you know and care about. Just this past week we lost our group sales manager, Jeff Wise, to cancer. Jeff had bravely and optimistically battled the disease for well over a year. Throughout, he remained loyal to his many friends, and to his colleagues here the Inn. He truly loved Mount Dora and he especially loved the Inn. I will always remember Jeff for that commitment and dedication... and his personal friendship. Jeff was a very kind and thoughtful man. At times he would drive me crazy. But most times he would make me laugh, or at least smile... and feel very, very good. I will miss him. We will all miss him.
Cheers to you Jeff - thank you.
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. What better way to celebrate than to feature a special rate of $130, including a commemorative Lakeside Inn keepsake, to be available throughout the year. Availability, room type and additional inclusions 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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| | Offer expires 12/31/13 |
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Newsletter Special Rate
Special Newsletter Early Booking Rate for 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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