Good morning, Ocala.

Marion County Fire Rescue retired employee Denise DelVisco, who served nearly 20 years, died on Thursday.

Bealls Florida declared it will permanently close its store in Six Gun Plaza in east Ocala, with no official closing date yet.

The move follows recent changes at the plaza where several new retailers have opened after older businesses closed down.

Zanita Hendry, an art teacher at Hillcrest School, was named Marion County's 2026 Teacher of the Year and earned a three-year prepaid lease on a 2026 Genesis G-70 vehicle.

Hillcrest also received awards for Principal and Rookie Teacher of the Year, marking a historic first for the school.

Following a rail tie fire near Comfort Suites in Dunnellon from Feb.

1 to 4, CSX contractors measured specific gases around Blue Cove but did not test for particulate matter, leaving a gap in the toxic exposure assessment. Local authorities and environmental groups (including DEP) call for further testing.

Officials in Dunnellon released details on hazards from a potential railroad fire expected over the weekend — advising residents to stay alert and follow safety guidelines.

This guidance aims to help locals prepare if conditions worsen.

A restaurant at Rainbows End Golf Club in Dunnellon failed a food safety inspection on Monday, Jan.

26 due to rodent droppings and improper food storage. The restaurant corrected the issues and reopened on Tuesday, Jan. 27.

Ocala trainer Bridget Kennedy and her Labrador Nolan earned third place at the Westminster Kennel Club’s 13th Annual Masters Agility Championship on Saturday, Jan.

31 in New York City. This podium finish builds on Nolan’s history of national successes.

Ocala speed skater Erin Jackson was selected as one of two flag bearers to lead Team USA in the opening ceremony today at the Winter Olympics in Milan.

Chosen by her teammates after performances at the U.S. Olympic Trials, she carries on a local legacy alongside bobsledder Frank Del Duca.

North Marion defeated Santa Fe 67 to 45 and Vanguard beat Leesburg 41 to 35 in Class 4A district title games for boys basketball.

The wins boost both teams' hopes in the area tournament.

The Vanguard girls soccer team advanced 8-0 over Citrus at Booster Stadium and remains unbeaten with 20 wins as it prepares for next week's regional semifinal at the same venue—a boost for the undefeated Knights led by standout Kendal Davis nearing 40 goals this season.

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.

L.E.A.F. Series: Spring Gardens Workshop

10:30 a.m. — Sholom Park — Free — Get hands-on guidance for preparing and planting your spring garden in this interactive workshop.

Latino Festival

11 AM – 6 PM — Ocala Citizens' Circle — Free entry — Celebrate Latin American culture with music, food, and handicrafts.