Mount Dora, FL – The Mount Dora Sister Cities Association is thrilled to announce several innovative projects and initiatives to strengthen the bond between Mount Dora and its twin city, Forres, in the Scottish Highlands.
"Windows" Interactive Technology Art Project: This groundbreaking project will feature a giant 'interactive' webcam in both cities' downtown areas. Residents and visitors can look through these "Windows" to see and interact with people in the sister city, fostering a sense of global community. The live video stream will be available for six hours daily, with an expected rollout in late Spring/Summer 2025. Stay tuned for more details.
New Student Project: The student board member-ambassador, Eileen DeMattia, has conceived the "Fantastic Forres: Marvelous Mount Dora" project aimed at preschool and early elementary students. Inspired by the concept of 'Flat Stanley' and the children's book Fantastic Forres, this project will engage young minds in cultural exchange and global friendship.
Business-to-Business Connections: Eve Passmore of Mount Dora's Eden Abbey Brewing Pub recently visited Forres and has initiated connections between businesses in both cities. Bike shops, brew pubs, and coffee shops have already established relationships. Businesses interested in connecting with their Scottish counterparts are encouraged to reach out.
Organization to Organization Ties: Collaborating with the Mount Dora Center for the Arts, plans are underway to bring a Scottish artist to Mount Dora for lectures, teaching, and exhibitions. Following this, a Mount Dora artist will visit Scotland. Directors Renee Milota and Cathy Hoechst are leading efforts to connect more organizations for mutual economic development and tourism benefits.
Group Travel to Scotland: Plans are in motion for a 2025 group travel trip to Scotland, including Forres and the Scottish Highlands. Interested individuals should contact us for more information as planning progresses.
Upcoming Events:
End-of-month social Luncheons: Hosted by VP Mitch Campbell, the next luncheon is on Wednesday, May 29, at 12:30 PM at Eden Abbey Brewing Pub. RSVP to reserve a seat.
Plaid in the Park: Enjoy Mount Dora's own Pipe & Drum Band, Scottish-themed vendors, food, and drink every second Saturday of the month at Sunset Park. The next event is on Saturday, June 8, from 5 to 9 PM.
New Leadership: The organization welcomes new officers and board members elected in April. President Glenna Burch, VP Mitch Campbell, Treasurer Nell DeMattia, Secretary Marsha Blum, Directors Cathy Hoechst, Renee Milota, Beth Forbes, and Student Board Member Eileen DeMattia. Vice Mayor Marc Crail serves as the City Government representative.
Free Membership in 2024: Membership is free for the following year. If you've already paid, your Membership will extend through 2025. New members can join by providing their contact details.
For more information or to get involved, contact the Mount Dora Sister Cities Association at info@mdsistercities.org or visit their website at www.mountdorasistercities.org.
