Good morning, Ocala.

A letter written during the Vietnam War in 1966 connected Helen Slotwinski with serviceman Gary Fye, sparking a 55-year marriage that expanded to a second generation (a testament to enduring love).

Helen said war is terrible but some good came out of it.

Members of the Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission held a Dr. Martin Luther King Day march yesterday in Ocala to honor his legacy and promote unity among local residents.

Swamp Dawg Restaurant Management Group is transforming a long-closed space at 3105 E.

Silver Springs Boulevard into The Remedy Dog Bar, which will offer restaurant dining and an off leash play area with a 5,000 sqft outdoor dog park. The opening date has yet to be announced.

This weekend, Madison Parolini was crowned Miss Ocala 2026 while Chloie Sebree was named Miss Ocala’s Teen 2026 — the new titleholders now prepare to represent the city at Miss Florida later this year.

Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon is hosting its Pop Up Pet Show for area artists to exhibit pet-inspired art (art drop-off is available Jan.

24-26 and the exhibit runs Jan. 28 through March 5).

A new queen was crowned yesterday at a North Central Florida pageant held in Ocala — a win that showcased local tradition and community pride.

Elisa Klein at Fordham Early Learning Academy is named Amazing Teacher of the Month by the Ocala Star-Banner/Florida Credit Union.

Her creative and patient teaching (praised by her principal and a parent) supports the academic and social growth of her Pre-K-3 students.

The Ocala City Council votes today on a proposal to authorize a 48-month lease for 83 new golf carts—82 regular and one beverage cart—at the city-owned golf club for $566,238.

This upgrade follows a year of renovations that improved course play conditions.

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.

Brick City Bluegrass Festival

7 p.m. — Ocala Citizens' Circle — Tickets available now — Enjoy live performances from your favorite bluegrass artists at this year's festival.

Special Olympics Florida

All day — Florida Horse Park — Free entry — Celebrate athleticism and inclusion at the Special Olympics in Ocala.

Little Shop of Horrors Live Performance

2:00 – 4:30 PM — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket prices vary — Experience the hilarious and thrilling story of Seymour and his eccentric plant in this beloved musical.

First Time Home Buyer Workshop

5-9 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP — Free entry — Gain expert insights and resources to make your home buying journey smooth and successful.

Ocala Anime-Fest

10 AM – 5 PM — Hilton Ocala — Ticket prices vary — Experience a vibrant gathering for anime enthusiasts in a welcoming community setting.