Daily
Ocala
Thursday, March 19th, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Ocala native Airman Apprentice Jorge Montero, a 2019 Lake Weir High School graduate, is training to repair electronic systems on jets and helicopters at CNATTU (Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit) at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, crediting his hometown upbringing (and family) for shaping his Navy values. Ocala-News
- ➤ WWII veteran Norman K. Schutt turned 100 on March 16 at The Windsor of Ocala with family, friends, and local veterans (including 101-year-old Howard Mautner). Councilman James Hilty Sr. presented him with a challenge coin to honor his service in the Merchant Marines during the war. Ocala Gazette
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Marion County officials narrowly approved a permit on Tuesday, Mar. 17 for K-9 Specialists to resume operations at its 20-acre facility at 8200 SW 27th Avenue in Ocala; the Zavalskys will breed and train dogs in repurposed shipping container kennels+they must adjust the layout per county conditions and expect 10 to 15 client visits monthly. Ocala-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Women of World Club will host its 22nd annual fashion show featuring seven models showcasing fashions from Dillard's and On Top of the World Pro Shop. The event will include lunch and a basket raffle for local guests. WCJB
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Gas prices in the state reached $3.67 per gallon Monday from $3.47 last week as traders reacted to Iran war risks + spring driving demand. Analysts expect prices to climb another 20 to 30 cents over the coming weeks. Ocala StarBanner
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Environmentalists want to remove the Kirkpatrick Dam to reconnect the St. Johns and Ocklawaha rivers with Silver Springs, boosting wildlife passage. Lawmakers did not approve the $70 million restoration plan last week so advocates will regroup to advance the project. ClickOrlando
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Marion County Board of County Commissioners lifted the mandatory burn ban due to improved weather conditions, though a voluntary ban remains active. County fire and forestry officials urge residents to follow safe burning rules (including proper setbacks and complete extinguishment) to prevent wildfire risks. Ocala Gazette
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ The former O’Calahan’s Pub and Eatery at 3155 E. Silver Springs Boulevard was sold to Ocala Net Holdings, LLC — a New York-based investment group — in a $2.465 million deal finalized on St. Patrick’s Day; the property closed nearly two years ago. Ocala-News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Dozens of fans gathered outside the Heavener Center on Wednesday evening to send off the Florida Gators men's basketball team for the NCAA Tournament. The team left for Tampa shortly after the send-off — community spirit was high. WCJB
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Southern Easter Prix-Fixe
12-5 p.m. — Stirrups Restaurant — Reservations required — Celebrate Easter with a Southern-inspired four-course menu and unlimited mimosas.
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Orange Blossom Classic
8 a.m. – 8 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Varies — Experience top-level Quarter Horse competition with significant prize money on the line.
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Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival
10 AM - 5 PM — Tuscawilla Art Park — Free entry — Celebrate the power of language with live poetry, author showcases, and musical performances.
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A Sudden Impulse Quarter Horse Show
8 AM – 8 PM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — $735,000 in guaranteed prize money — Experience thrilling competition with AQHA and NSBA classes at this premier equestrian event.
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Hot Cars and Cool Cats Car Show
10 AM — The Hot Cars and Cool Cats Car Show at The Nassiveras — $10 entry for vehicles — Experience custom trophies, great food, music, and support a good cause at this fun-filled car show.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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