Good morning, Ocala.

Lauren’s Kids will host its 11th Walk in My Shoes in Ocala on Thursday, April 16, starting at Publix Supermarket at Grand Oaks Town Center.

Participants join a four-mile walk to the Sexual Assault Center Inc — UBER rides are provided — while the Voices Project collects survivors’ stories.

On Saturday, Apr. 11, a 4x4 left its designated trail near Paisley Road in Ocala National Forest, and its exhaust ignited dry grass that sparked a 20-acre wildfire which firefighters quickly contained.

Planet Smoothie opened its first Ocala location on Friday, Apr.

3 at Market Street at Heath Brook, offering over 30 smoothie and bowl options plus daily shots of wheatgrass, ginger, or power. The store operates from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday.

On April 13, Florida gas prices dropped nearly 20 cents to an average of $4.016 per gallon as the U.S. Navy began a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after failed talks with Iran & oil prices rose above $100 a barrel; motorists may face higher costs in coming days.

On April 9, the Rotary Club of Ocala-Silver Springs awarded six high school seniors a $1,500 Community Service Scholarship each after reviewing essays and volunteer hours.

The students — who maintained a 4.4 GPA — pledged to keep volunteering through college and beyond.

Florida school calendars show the last day of the 2025-26 school year ranges from May 22 to June 4 and schools will be closed on Memorial Day, May 25.

Some counties began spring break on April 13 so check your district calendar for details.

Residents are advised to prepare for hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to Nov.

30, by gathering essential supplies and checking local evacuation zones. Local officials urge staying informed about weather alerts as the season peaks on Sept. 10 — sharing crucial tips from Florida’s long history with storms.

Sixteen Marion County restaurants in Ocala were inspected from April 6-12, with several flagged for high-priority violations such as improper temperature control and cross-contamination (issues that require follow-up reviews).

Homeowners in Ocala are urged to review their insurance policies now to check for gaps before hurricane season begins in June (documenting property with photos or videos can support future claims).

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!

Arnold Irchai and Dale Fedele Concert

3-4 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — $4 – $185 — Experience intimate chamber music with virtuosic musicians from the Ocala Symphony in a unique performance setting.

Mother's Day Brunch Celebration

11 AM - 2 PM — Miss Eloise’s Grand Ballroom — $110 per adult, $39 per child ages 6-12 — Enjoy an elegant buffet with live music for a memorable Mother's Day.

Grand Prix May Dressage Dining Experience

8-11 a.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — $145 per person — Indulge in a buffet brunch while world-class dressage competitors showcase their skills in a stunning outdoor arena.