Good morning, Ocala.

The Ocala Preserve Veterans group, TOPVETS, awarded $65,000 in donations to nine local organizations supporting veterans at a March 7 breakfast at the Salted Brick Restaurant.

The funds helped provide essential services such as food, housing, and counseling for veterans in the community.

Ocala’s Community Development Services is offering free Estate Planning 101 workshops titled Secure Your Legacy that cover wills, trusts, and property disposition to help reduce legal fees and tax liabilities.

Gas prices in Florida jumped 61 cents per gallon over the past week to average $3.494 on March 9, and traders predict prices may reach between $4.50 and $5 by late March + AAA data shows cheaper rates in the Panhandle and higher prices in West Palm and Orlando.

Gas prices in Florida surged Monday, with the average for regular fuel rising to about $3.494, and experts warn that if rising oil costs continue prices could hit $4 per gallon soon — local stations may feel the increase.

Nearly 200 guests attended the College of Central Florida Foundation’s Night at the Farm on March 7 at the college’s Vintage Barn in Ocala, where more than $135,000 were raised to support student scholarships (sponsored by CAMPUS USA Credit Union, HCA Florida Healthcare, The Saint Bernard Foundation and VITAS Healthcare).

Social Security payments for March are being sent out as scheduled based on birthdays, with regular checks arriving March 11, March 18, and March 25 and Supplemental Security Income issued early on Feb.

27. A report warns the trust fund may run out by Sept. 2032.

Braised Onion in Ocala was temporarily closed on March 4 after inspectors found live roaches in the server area (four roaches spotted under sinks and inside cabinets) and a follow-up inspection is planned to verify corrective actions.

Plans have been filed by Mockingbird Ridge LLC to rezone 283.55 acres in southwest Ocala for up to 592 single-family homes in the Heath Brook community.

The Ocala Planning and Zoning Commission considered the proposal on Monday at City Hall + received objection letters.

Marion County Community Services is offering eligible first-time homebuyers up to $100,000 in down payment and closing cost help through the state’s Homebuyer Purchase Assistance Program in unincorporated Marion County and Ocala, with supplemental federal funding available + zero-interest, deferred loans.

Ocala's Josh Hart won the Top Fuel race at the 2026 Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals on Sunday, March 8 at Gainesville Raceway with a record 3.733-second run.

Competing in his debut with John Force Racing, he snapped a five-year winless streak against Doug Kalitta.

Rodney Mullen, the influential skateboarder who won his first world title at age-14, will attend the grand opening of the expanded Ocala Skate Park on March 28.

Several Marion County utility workers competed this weekend and earned spots to represent the region at the International Lineman’s Rodeo in Kansas later this fall.

Ocala’s Corey Sill took first in the Apprentice Overall category while Dunnellon teammates won the Journeyman Overall division.

The Ocala Boat Show

11 a.m. – 7 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Exclusive boat show savings — Discover the latest models from MasterCraft, Barletta, and Tidewater with expert guidance for your next adventure.

Irish Eyes are Mile'ing 5K

8 a.m. — Ocala Citizens' Circle — $30 early entry fee — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a 5K run supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Live On Stage: Steel Magnolias

2-4 PM — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Price info not provided — Experience heartfelt laughter in a vibrant Louisiana beauty salon.

Marion County Fair at I-75 Flea Market

4-11 p.m. — i-75 Flea Market-Vallejo Eventos — $5 admission — Experience family-friendly rides, games, live music, and thrilling circus acts at this annual community fair.

Park After Dark: Musical Mosaic Featuring Gypsy Sparrow

5:15-6:15 p.m. — Sholom Park — $20 per person — Experience a dynamic concert with Gypsy Sparrow performing classic hits across the decades.

Tara Cannistraci Stand-Up Comedy Show

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Marion Theatre — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of Bronx-born humor from Italian-American comedian Tara Cannistraci.

3rd Annual Ocala Spring Craft Fair

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free entry — Discover over 200 artisans showcasing their creativity and craftsmanship at this vibrant craft fair.

Tailgate at For Love of the Horse Polo Classic

12-6 p.m. — Florida Horse Park — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a thrilling afternoon of competitive polo in Ocala's scenic horse capital.

Ocala Arabian Spring Qualifier

8 AM – 9 PM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free admission — Celebrate the beauty and versatility of the Arabian horse across various disciplines.

Southern Easter Prix-Fixe

12-5 p.m. — Stirrups Restaurant — Reservations required — Celebrate Easter with a Southern-inspired four-course menu and unlimited mimosas.