Good morning, Ocala.

UF Card hosted its 16th annual Stomp the Swamp for Autism event on March 27th, drawing local participants who gathered to support autism awareness.

Early Thursday morning, Florida Highway Patrol began investigating a vehicle crash involving a pedestrian on South Pine Avenue in Ocala — southbound lanes from Southeast 31st Street to Southeast Lake Weir Avenue are closed — causing travel delays.

Data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shows Marion County had 21 alcohol-related traffic fatalities in 2023—more than 63 of 67 counties and a rate of 5.2 per 100,000 residents that ranked it fourth statewide.

A 55-year-old Ocala woman was struck and killed on South Pine Avenue early Thursday at 5:27 a.m. when a Jeep Grand Cherokee hit her and a Volkswagen swerved into her path as she walked on a dark roadway in dark clothing — Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the crash.

Marion County officials will vote on a $50,000 grant on April 1 to fund eligible expenses and hotel bookings for Rock The Country, a multi-day festival set for May 9 to May 11.

The event is expected to generate about $9,161,342 in sales and meet high lodging demand—headlined by Nickelback and Kid Rock.

Marion County School Superintendent Diane Gullett will leave her job on July 11 to become Chief Academic Officer at Bailey Education Group — a company that supports schools with teacher coaching and development — and the school board is meeting to plan for an interim replacement.

She has led the district since 2020 and will remain in Marion County as she takes on her new role.

The Ocala City Council will vote Tuesday, April 1 on a measure to spend $954,000 for bulletproof vests and two armored vehicles for the police department.

City staff said the plan uses $198,215 for the vests with some grant funds and asks for two BearCats valued at $378,165 each—improving police safety during risky operations—while enhancing SWAT response.

Florida lawmakers are considering a law that would ban holding a phone while driving—only hands-free use will be allowed and drivers who break the rule will face fines and license penalties.

The bill passed committee votes and will take effect on July 1 if the legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis approve it.

Ocala KidFest & Camp Fair

10 AM – 3 PM — Paddock Mall — Free entry — Explore family-friendly resources, fun activities, and summer camp giveaways.

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.

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.

6th Annual Golf Extravaganza

12-5 p.m. — Ocala Golf Club — Enjoy a day of golfing fun for a good cause with fellow enthusiasts.

Makers Market

11 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Grumbles House Antiques & Garden Shop — Free admission — Discover unique handmade arts and crafts from local artisans while enjoying live music and good food.

Candlelight: The Best of The Beatles

8:30-9:30 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the magic of The Beatles' music performed by an intimate string quartet under candlelight.

Ocala Oddities Market April Edition

6-10 p.m. — Florida Oddities Markets LLC — Free entry — Explore a uniquely quirky market with over 70 vendors showcasing oddities from taxidermy to handmade jewelry.

Spring Strings Concert

4-7 p.m. — Sholom Park — Free entry — Experience the modern bluegrass sounds of Remedy Tree in a serene park setting.

Women Build 2025 Kickoff Party

5-8 p.m. — OHC Community Center — Free entry — Celebrate the kick-off of a meaningful local initiative supporting women in building homes.

Brandon Dull Live Performance

3-5 p.m. — Tierra Del Sol Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy timeless tunes from a talented singing guitarist based in Ocala, Florida.