Good morning, Ocala.

Marion County Animal Services is showcasing three adoptable pets—Ava, a seven-year-old who loves craft fairs; Teddi, a cuddly companion who enjoys brushing; and Hershey, a two-year-old ready for a game of fetch.

Adoptions are available Tuesday through Saturday with a $17 fee in March, and the fee will be waived for those who wear green.

A 22-year-old man, Reynaldo Chicha, was arrested on a felony littering charge after officials discovered over 3,000 pounds of trash dumped near the intersection of 72nd Terrace and 144th Street Road in Ocala — boxes with a woman’s name on them led deputies to his property where he admitted dumping and later posted a $5,000 bond.

Officials with HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital in cooperation with the Public Education Foundation of Marion County awarded teacher Claire Sensibaugh of Vanguard High School the 'Thank a Teacher' honor on Tuesday, citing her dedication in the classroom. The award comes with a ($250 bonus) and a special email featuring heartfelt messages while nominations remain open (during the 2024-25 school year).

A wildfire in Ocala National Forest grew from 210 acres a week ago to 419 acres now—emergency crews report it is about half contained.

Authorities have imposed a flight ban and closed the St. Francis Trail to keep people safe.

A Marion County resident has picked up litter for 6 years along a 1.5-mile stretch near her home, and she finds that each week she collects cups, bags, cigarette packs, beer cans, liquor bottles and small plastic liquor bottles sold in stores.

The resident questioned if tougher action on speeders has led to more open container violations — she says the trash amount has not decreased despite anti-littering campaigns.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Commission of Florida hosted a prayer breakfast on March 28th to celebrate its 41st anniversary (a milestone reached over four decades of service) in a commemorative event (marking its longstanding legacy).

Today, Special Olympics Florida kicked off at the World Equestrian Center where athletes competed in events like cornhole and equestrian competitions—CEO Sherry Wheelock said participants trained over 12 weeks with local volunteer coaches and will receive podiatry screenings during the two-day event.

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.

Ocala Home & Garden Show

12 PM – 5 PM — World Equestrian Center — Free entry — Explore gardening innovations and home improvement ideas at this vibrant expo.