Daily
Ocala
Friday, March 14th, 2025
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Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 14th of March.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Symmetry Coffee Company has taken over the shuttered Starbucks space at the Paddock Mall in Ocala and opened its doors in mid-December—replacing the cafe that closed last summer. The new spot offers a range of coffees, teas and snacks and sits next to BM Jewelers as the mall continues to welcome a mix of national brands. Ocala-News
- ➤ A record was set on day three of the OBS March Sale when a gray or roan colt sired by Gun Runner sold for $3 million to a stable in Lexington—three other horses sold for $1 million or more and day three sales topped $25 million. Overall sales this week reached nearly $66 million, slightly outpacing last year's figures. WCJB
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Ocala restaurant co-owner Anthony Michael Viktora was arrested on March 9 on felony domestic battery charges after police responded to a dispute in which his stepdaughter said he choked her (a photo showed red marks on her neck), and he is held on a $5,000 bond with court dates set for April 8 and April 21. Ocala-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Joslyn and the Sweet Compression will perform at the Levitt AMP Music Series this Friday, March 14, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Webb Field in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Complex — admission is free and attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Ocala-News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Local leaders have formed a bipartisan group to oppose Senate Bill 1118 and House Bill 1209 because the bills would strip Ocala and Marion officials of their control over local development and expose farmland to unchecked growth. The measure is scheduled for review by the Community Affairs committee on March 17 (in Room 37). Ocala Gazette
- ➤ A $4.6 million contract to build Ocala’s eighth fire station will be voted on Tuesday, March 18 at City Hall—this project covers a 10,130-square-foot facility for 7 personnel on a 7.8-acre site near U.S. Highway 27 and NW 45th Terrace. Construction is expected to finish by August 2026 to serve the growing northwest area. Ocala-News
SHOP NEWS
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SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The 34th Live Oak International has begun in Ocala and will run until March 16—offering over $300,000 in prize money for competitors. Organizers expect a strong turnout as the four-day event brings local and regional talent together. WCJB
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Almost ABBA: A Nostalgic Tribute Show
Almost ABBA offers an interactive tribute to the iconic band, featuring costumed performances and intricate harmonies, appealing to both loyal fans and new audiences alike.
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Ocala Winter Championship Horse Show
The Ocala Championship features a week-long series of USEF-rated competitions, including Grand Prix, Hunter Derbies, and Jumper Classics for riders and horses of all levels at HITS Post Time Farm.
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Broadway Across The Ages Concert at Sholom Park
Experience an evening of musical entertainment featuring performers Scotty Tomas and Victoria Sexton in a Broadway-themed concert.
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March USEA Horse Trials at Majestic Oaks
The Area 3 March USEA Horse Trials, featuring various competitive divisions, will take place at Majestic Oaks from March 21-23, 2025, with cross-country and show jumping designed by David Taylor.
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Knightsnake: A Tribute to Whitesnake
Knightsnake, a five-piece tribute band, recreates the iconic music of Whitesnake with classic hits performed live.
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Hammer Head: Florida Endurance Mountain Bike Series Race #6
The Hammer Head race is part of the 9th Annual Florida Endurance Mountain Bike series, featuring various race classes for all ages and skill levels at the Cross Florida Greenway Trails in Ocala.
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Meeple Movers Board Game Night
5-9 p.m. | Meeple Movers Board Game Cafe | Free entry | Enjoy an evening of gaming with a library of over 300 games and friendly experts to guide you.
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Ocala KidFest & Camp Fair
10 AM – 3 PM — Paddock Mall — Free entry — Explore family-friendly resources, fun activities, and summer camp giveaways.
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On-Site Tour at Hampton Manor Deerwood
Explore the comprehensive care and vibrant community at Hampton Manor Deerwood, featuring nutritious meals and a variety of engaging activities for residents.
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Indian Motorcycle Demo Event
— 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Indian Motorcycle Ocala — Free demo rides — Experience the all-new 2025 Scout lineup on a thrilling motorcycle adventure.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Most smart people overrate the value of intelligence and underrate the value of consistency.
~ Sam Altman
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