Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 25th of March.
Good morning, Ocala.
🏘️ Community
Braver Angels will meet on March 26 at 5:15 p.m. at the Marion County Public Library Headquarters (2720 E.
Silver Springs Blvd.) for a panel discussion on constitutional issues tied to immigration enforcement, with insights from judges, the prosecution, defense, and state and federal officials.
Rodney Mullen will headline the Ocala Skate Park Expansion Grand Opening at 517 NE Ninth St on Saturday, Mar.
28. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and wraps up at the Marion Theatre (6 p.m. to 9 p.m.) with a Q&A and documentary screening.
On March 19, the Ocala Housing Authority hosted Community Outreach Day at Deer Run community for about 150 families.
The event featured Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano, a food truck, games + equine visits, and other family-friendly activities.
💼 Business
Major retailers have set Easter schedules for April 5, with Publix, Costco, and Target closed + Trader Joe’s, Sprouts, and Winn-Dixie keeping regular or reduced hours.
Shoppers in Ocala should check local listings for exact times.
🎭 Culture
On March 25 and March 26, look to the evening sky—Jupiter will appear close to the moon for stargazers in Florida.
Jupiter remains viewable until early April, and the next full moon brightens the sky on April 1.
📰 Economy
AAA data shows Florida gas prices fell to $3.920 on Mar.
24 while the national average rose to nearly $3.977. In contrast, California residents paid nearly $6 per gallon as three states saw prices above $5.
🌲 Environment
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission urges residents to be BearWise this spring as Florida black bears emerge from winter dens; locals are advised to secure trash, bird seed, and pet food — steps that help reduce conflicts.
🏛️ Government
Ocala’s Jervey Gantt Aquatic Center will have its pool deck, breezeway and restroom floors resurfaced after city council approved a $262,580 contract, with work expected to begin soon.
The contract was awarded to *RenoSys Corp.*.
🏥 Health
Inspectors from the Florida DBPR rated Marion County restaurants between March 16 and March 22 and found 8 establishments, including ones in Ocala and Belleview, with high-priority violations such as improper food handling, sanitation & cold-holding issues.
A follow-up inspection is required for compliance.
📰 Real Estate
The AC Hotel by Marriott held its shovel ceremony in downtown Ocala on March 23, 2026+ the hotel will open in December.
Two storage facilities were proposed on Monday for southwest Ocala and Summerfield.
The Ocala project by Barefoot Land Co. LLC will cover 80,000 sqft on a 9.94-acre site near a Walmart, while 9494 Summerfield, LLC seeks up to 196,750 sqft near a new Walmart.
🎉 Ocala Events
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ocala Big Bloom Home & Garden Show
12-6 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free admission — Discover a vibrant showcase of flowers and hands-on gardening activities for all ages.
🏠 Ocala Real Estate
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💼 Ocala Job Board
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📣 Ocala Announcements
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