Good morning, Ocala.

Two days after a local resident claimed a $100,000 prize on March 26, another $100,000 lottery win occurred at Publix (8075 SW State Road 200 near the On Top of the World retirement community) during the Fantasy 5 midday drawing on Saturday, March 28.

Ocala is inviting Florida-based artists to propose an art installation honoring Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church at a new parking garage near SW 3rd Avenue and SW Broadway Street (site of the historic church).

The commission reviews proposals today with submissions due by April 19.

Florida gas prices rose to $4.12 a gallon on Tuesday, marking a four-year high as rising crude oil costs propel the surge (according to AAA).

Ocala drivers can save money by using fuel apps and loyalty programs at local stations.

County officials enforced local restrictions at Rainbow River last weekend and fined visitors nearly $1,500 for carrying illegal alcohol and disposable containers & removed about 200 lbs of garbage from a high-traffic area near the KP Hole boat ramp.

Marion County Fire Rescue held a grand opening ceremony for its new Orange Springs Station 13 last Tuesday in Orange Springs, where officials celebrated the station's role in strengthening local fire rescue efforts.

Health inspectors found 18 violations, including 6 high-priority ones, at Huddle House in Ocala during inspections March 23-29.

The restaurant remains closed until the issues are corrected.

Marion County high school softball teams are gearing up for postseason play as FHSAA rankings place Belleview (14-2) at the top, with Trinity Catholic and Forest also in the mix.

The regular season ends on April 22 while district tournaments begin April 27 and state play follows in mid-May.

Former Florida coach Ron Zook (a 71-year-old resident near Lake Weir) attended spring practice Tuesday when coach Jon Sumrall invited him to share insights about his recruiting and coaching contributions, marking a nod to Florida's football tradition as the team works to improve its special teams.

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.

International Jazz, Art & Poetry Festival Ocala

6-8 PM — Appleton Museum of Art — Fundraising event — Immerse yourself in jazz, vibrant art, and soulful poetry while honoring jazz legends Dizzy Gillespie and Alice Coltrane.

Extravaganza 2026

9 AM – 10 PM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free entry — Experience three days of premier paso fino horse competition at this prestigious event.