Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 2nd of January.
Good morning, Ocala.
🏘️ Community
Crews from Platform Group are expanding Ocala Skate Park (517 NE 9th Street) to add over 6,000 sqft of skateable terrain with a new bowl, snake run, and beginner areas.
The park remains open while construction continues and is set to finish in February.
Mary Sue Rich’s family invites community choir members to honor her legacy on Saturday, Jan.
3 at Central Christian Church on NE 14th St. A visitation is set for Friday, Jan. 2 from 4 to 7 p.m with choir practice at 7:30 p.m.
💼 Business
Dutch Bros Coffee opened its first Ocala location in December 2025.
The new outlet now serves locals its signature coffee and fast service (a welcome addition for the community).
A new Baskin-Robbins shop opened today at 2708 SW College Road in Ocala, serving 31+ ice cream flavors and filling a gap for local ice cream fans.
It is owned by Manella Patel, LLC.
🏛️ Government
Mary Sue Rich, Ocala’s first Black council member, will be honored with public visitation at St. Paul AME Church on Jan.
2 and a celebration of life at Central Christian Church on Jan. 3 following her 24 years in office. A community center bears her name.
🎉 Ocala Events
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Young Artist Competition - Honors Recital
3-5 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Complimentary tickets for subscribers — Experience the inspiring performances of young musicians competing for soloist opportunities with the Ocala Symphony.
Cherokee Jazz and Rock Night
6-9 p.m. — The Pavilion at Green Gaits — Free entry — Enjoy smooth saxophone melodies and keyboard classics in a lively jazz and rock performance.
Free Movie: Rocky
12-2 p.m. — Epic Theatres of Ocala — Free entry — Experience the inspiring classic 'Rocky' and witness the power of perseverance and self-belief.
Mid Florida Truck and Tractor Pull
12:00 AM — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion — Adults $20, Kids $10, 6 & under free — Experience the thrill of roaring engines and powerful machines in a local favorite event.
Car & Craft Show
10 AM – 2 PM — The Arc of Marion — $15 cars, $10 crafts — Celebrate creativity and vehicles while supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Little Shop of Horrors Opening Night
5:30-7 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Drinks available — Enjoy a pre-show gathering with the director on opening night of a beloved musical.
JUCO Baseball Showcase 2026
9 AM - 3 PM — College of Central Florida Ocala Campus — Registration fee required — A one-day event for high school players to showcase their skills to JUCO coaches.
🏠 Ocala Real Estate
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💼 Ocala Job Board
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📣 Ocala Announcements
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