Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 2nd of February.
Good morning, Ocala.
🚧 Accidents
After a stockpile of creosote-treated ties caught fire on Feb.
1 in Dunnellon near East McKinney Avenue and North Williams Street, firefighters battled the blaze over 10 acres and issued health warnings for heavy, irritating smoke — no injuries were reported and tie removal work is underway.
🎓 Education
The new South Marion High School is nearing completion on 115 acres in southwest Ocala at 1350 SW 165th Street.
The $165 million campus will open in August with space for over 2,000 students & facilities for athletics, arts and career programs.
Dani Moreno-Fuentes was named Marion County's Star-Banner/Florida Credit Union Amazing Teacher of the Month on Feb.
1; she uses theater workshops to teach life skills + creative expression at the Academy at Ocala Civic Theatre.
The Ocala CEP is partnering with local schools today to build a stronger workforce in the community.
The initiative aims to develop career skills and prepare students for adult life.
🌲 Environment
Firefighters battled 70 acres of wildfires on Saturday in Marion County, including a fast-moving blaze along Oak Circle Drive that threatened homes in Silver Springs Shores.
A fire near the Marion and Putnam county border forced temporary evacuations while crews contained additional fires amid dry, windy conditions.
The Florida Forest Service warns that extreme drought and lack of hurricanes have increased wildfire risks in North Central Florida today.
Fire officials report that four wildfires threatened homes on Friday and urge residents to burn yard waste safely and monitor weather conditions.
🏈 Sports
Ocala natives Erin Jackson and Brittany Bowe secured spots on the U.S. Speed Skating team after trials in Milwaukee.
They will compete at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games starting Feb. 6.
🎉 Ocala Events
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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.
10th Annual VOCAL Furball: A Western Extravaganza
6-10 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Ticket required — A whimsical night of Western style and heartfelt giving for Marion County's cats and dogs.
Burnyzz Gatornationals FanFest 2026
6-9 p.m. — Burnyzz — Vehicle registration $10 early, $15 day of show — Celebrate the Gatornationals with live music, driver autographs, and family-friendly activities.
🏠 Ocala Real Estate
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💼 Ocala Job Board
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📣 Ocala Announcements
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