Good morning, Ocala.

NASA’s Artemis II launch was visible across Florida yesterday as the Space Launch System rocket lifted off from Kennedy Space Center—citizens from Gainesville to Port St. Lucie reported noticing its striking trail.

The College of Central Florida held its annual student art exhibition opening reception on Wednesday at 12:30 p.m. at the Webber Center — featuring juried visual and digital media by student artists.

The exhibition will be on display until Tuesday, May 5.

John Travolta celebrated nearly two decades since his 'Wild Hogs' premiere at the Marion Theatre, where the event combined film excitement with charity for nearby tornado victims.

Travolta personally matched donations to boost funds to $30,000.

The College of Central Florida will stage the Tony Award-nominated musical Mean Girls on its College Road campus from April 9-12.

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on April 9-11 and 3 p.m. on April 12, and tickets cost $12 for adults + $6 for non-CF students.

On April 1, Florida gas prices rose nearly 10 cents overnight, with Ocala averaging $4.285 — leaving the region above the national average.

Experts say high oil prices from ongoing international conflict may keep costs elevated for now.

Gladys Esther Quinones Cotto won a $100,000 Fantasy 5 prize from a Publix at 8075 SW State Road 200 in Canopy Oak Center on March 28 + another local resident claimed the same prize 48 hours earlier, the Florida Lottery said.

Marion County Fire Rescue celebrated the transition of Orange Springs Station 13 in Fort McCoy from volunteer operations to a fully staffed career unit on Tuesday, March 31, ensuring faster response times for emergencies.

The upgrade marks the latest in a series of county fire service improvements.

After hatching in early spring, tussock moth caterpillars have spread across local parks and neighborhoods, and their spiky hairs can cause itchy rashes.

Residents are advised to avoid contact with these caterpillars on oak trees to prevent skin irritation.

Marion County finished a $5 million upgrade at Rotary Sportsplex on Apr.

1 with a new synthetic turf field that expands youth sports opportunities + local teams can now practice and play.

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.

One time never before seeing Home

Don’t miss your chance to see this perfect 3/2/2 plan offered at $269,500. Hurry, It will not last!