Wednesday, February 5th, 2025

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Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 5th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Bruce Ackerman of the 'Ocala Gazette' won six awards at the Florida Press Club's 2023-24 Excellence in Journalism recognition ceremony, highlighting his significant contributions to local journalism. Ocala Gazette
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ David Laperriere was sentenced to three years in prison after pleading no contest to battery on law enforcement and aggravated assault charges, following an incident where he attacked officers and was subsequently shot by police. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ Former sheriff's deputy accused of falsifying records has charges dropped and agrees to surrender law enforcement certification, among other notable court cases in Marion County. Ocala StarBanner
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ A diverse lineup of events, including a musical at the Ocala Civic Theatre, art walks, concerts, art exhibits, and a cultural exhibition, is scheduled in Ocala/Marion County, offering entertainment options for a variety of interests. Ocala StarBanner
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ A renowned 186-acre horse ranch in Marion County, previously owned by celebrated trainer Clyde D. Rice, was sold for $3 million to Brooklyn Farms, LLC. Ocala-News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ 13 Marion County, Florida restaurants were cited for high-priority health violations during state inspections from Jan. 27-Feb. 2, 2025. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital ranked in the top 250 nationwide by Healthgrades for the third consecutive year, highlighting their standout performance in various surgical specialties. Ocala StarBanner
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ MOOYAH, a new burger joint offering a range of options including vegan, paleo, and keto-friendly burgers, opens in downtown Ocala, Florida, at the historic Goldman Building. Ocala StarBanner
SHOP NEWS
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SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Ocala trainer Bridget Kennedy and her Labrador Retriever, Nolan, return to compete in the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City. Ocala-News
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Yellow Brick Road - A Tribute to Elton John
Brann and his talented band deliver an authentic tribute to Elton John, complete with replica costumes and audience participation in a lively concert experience.
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DEKA Strong Challenge at Underground Gym
The Spartan DEKA Strong event features ten functional training zones with no running, encouraging participants to earn their DEKA Strong mark and train for the DEKA FIT 2025.
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Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular - A Multimedia Experience
Experience a captivating multi-media laser and light show set to the original music of Pink Floyd, offering a unique visual and auditory journey.
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Managing Behavior Associated with Dementia
This event focuses on effective techniques for understanding and modifying negative behaviors related to dementia.
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Valentine's Day Sip and Shop at Karishma Boutique
Celebrate the season of love at Karishma Boutique's 2nd Valentine’s Sip n Shop event, featuring local vendors and shopping opportunities.
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Florida Winter Series Four-Ball Tournament at Country Club of Ocala
The Florida Winter Series is a competitive golf tournament for players aged 25 and older, featuring Better-Ball and Four-Ball formats at the Country Club of Ocala.
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Country Club of Ocala Invitational Golf Tournament
The Country Club of Ocala Invitational is a two-day, 36-hole stroke play event featuring Championship, Legends, and Hall of Fame flights for male golfers.
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Ocala Metro Chamber of Commerce Annual Lunch 2025
The Annual Luncheon, focused on the theme 'The Power of Partnership', will bring together over 1,200 partners from the Ocala region for networking and discussion.
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Ballet Magnificat! presents 'Deliver Us!'
Experience Ballet Magnificat!’s acclaimed ballet 'Deliver Us!', telling the story of Moses and the Exodus set to the music of 'The Prince of Egypt'.
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38th Annual Car Show and Swap Meet
The 38th Annual Car Show & Swap Meet at Florida Horse Park features a variety of car shows and community activities.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
If you want to remember something, write it down. If you want to understand something, explain it to someone else.
~ Richard Feynman
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