Good morning, Ocala.

Marion County Animal Services will host a Pack Walk at Silver Springs State Park (5656 E Silver Springs Blvd) on Sunday, Jan.

25 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.; volunteers can walk shelter dogs and enjoy park access until 5:30 p.m. with a $2 entry fee.

Local entrepreneur Jodie Keach-Smith is converting her online passion into a brick-and-mortar store at 2513-A NE 3rd Street in Ocala.

The new Simply Stitching shop, located in Spring Hill Plaza near Pink and Sweet Bakery and Restaurant, will open in February to serve stitchers, quilters, and knitters.

A new Walmart Neighborhood Market will open on Jan.

28 at 8:30 a.m. at 3535 SE Maricamp Road in Ocala, featuring a $25 gift card giveaway for the first 250 families and meet-and-greet events with Tim Tebow and former UF players later that day.

Florida's initial unemployment filings dropped to 6,331 last week from 7,146 the week prior, the U.S. Department of Labor said, while national claims edged up to 200,000 (seasonally adjusted).

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Florida gas prices increased last week to an average of $2.70 per gallon for regular fuel, up from $2.60, though prices remain below the national average by 3.7% — a 13% drop from a year ago.

The Florida Department of Transportation closed the CR320 bridge over I-75 between Orange Lake/Irvine and Micanopy for repairs that began 6 a.m. Jan.22 and include planned overnight closures on Jan.26 and Jan.27 plus additional work the week of Feb.8 — drivers should follow detour signs.

Marion County officials approved a special permit on Tuesday for Kevin and Barbara Marovich to start a mini-farm at 7600 S.

Magnolia Ave, allowing six miniature cows, four pygmy goats, and 40 chickens + planned orchards and beehives on nearly 12 acres. The five-year permit includes strict conditions for waste and runoff management.

Marion County district soccer tournaments reported quarterfinal wins with boys teams set for semifinals today between 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. (Dunnellon will face Vanguard) while girls teams advanced in their matches yesterday.

Florida basketball will try to secure its sixth win when the Gators host Auburn at the O’Dome on Saturday, Jan.

24 at 4 p.m. on ESPN. Keyshawn Hall of Auburn and Rueben Chinyelu of Florida are expected to shine in a game that promises tough defense.

On Thursday, Buchholz & Newberry girls secured road wins while Trenton boys achieved a big victory in local high school basketball games.

The strong wins add to a triple-threat season that sets the stage for a deep postseason run.

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.

2026 All for the Horses Expo

9 AM - 2 PM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free admission — Experience an expansive equine expo featuring elite brands, live demonstrations, and interactive showcases.

Candlelight: Tribute to Adele

8:30-9:29 PM — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — $31.44 — Experience the soulful music of Adele illuminated by candlelight in a unique atmosphere.