Daily
Ocala
Saturday, March 21st, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 21st of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ U.S. Navy and Coast Guard veteran William Dorsey was honored in the inaugural induction ceremony of the Marion County Veterans Hall of Fame on Thursday, March 19 at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion in Ocala (with Myles McConico and Daisy Diaz presenting the recognition). Ocala Gazette
- ➤ The Early Learning Coalition of Marion County needs donations of larger-sized diapers as its Diaper Assistance Program, which serves 182 local families, has run out of key sizes. Donors can drop off items at its office (2300 SW 17th Road) or contribute money online. Ocala-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Two local grandmothers have teamed with a veteran producer to launch 'The Nonnas of Stonecreek' — a cooking show sharing cherished recipes and lively stories in local kitchens. The series records live segments at community venues and will stream on YouTube and online. Ocala-News
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Florida gas prices dipped slightly on March 20, falling from $3.951 to $3.950 and leaving averages near $4 a gallon. Residents can compare prices using local apps, though the drop is only the value of a coin. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ Gas prices in Gainesville and Ocala are near $4 a gallon today as AAA reports a 24-cent jump from last week — many drivers feel the pinch at local pumps. WCJB
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Rodman Reservoir’s seasonal drawdown has revealed hidden springs and drowned forests along the Ocklawaha River, reigniting a debate on restoring natural flows for environmental and recreational benefits (7,500 acres of wetlands are exposed) as local guide Erika Ritter said area tours are increasing before the reservoir refills in April. ClickOrlando
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Florida SNAP recipients will not use benefits to buy soda, candy, energy drinks, or prepackaged desserts starting April 20 as part of a federal move to promote healthy diets — approval lasts for two years with an option for further extensions. Ocala StarBanner
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ The Penney Park Estates Mobile Home Park at 1001 NE 77th Street sold for $1.7 million on Friday, March 13. Covering 5.99 acres southwest of John Travolta’s estate, the park was sold by 1001 Park LLC + purchased by To Partners, LLC. Ocala-News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Gator softball team lost to top-ranked Tennessee 2-1 today in a low-scoring series opener in Ocala, leaving five runners stranded in the final innings. WCJB
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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.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Time magnifies the margin between success and failure. It will multiply whatever you feed it.
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Ocala
Welcome to the Daily Ocala, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Ocala, Florida community. If you like the Daily Ocala, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Ocala.
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