Good morning, Ocala.

Publix—one of Florida's largest grocery chains with over 870 stores—will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, leaving shoppers to adjust their plans since the chain only closes three days a year to give employees time with their families.

On April 16th, the Dunnellon City Council and County Commissioners approved a contract allowing the Marion County Sheriff's Office to take over law enforcement services so deputies will start patrolling Dunnellon on May 13th.

Dunnellon police officers remain on paid leave and Capt. Ron Bray has been named chief of police and community resource officer — he will work with the sheriff's office to manage the department's budget.

Floridians who missed the April 15 deadline without an extension owe their 2024 tax returns and now may face IRS penalties.

Taxpayers in disaster areas have until May 1 to file and avoid extra fees—filing quickly will help reduce additional charges.

Marion County officials have imposed a voluntary burn ban today due to a lack of rainfall and increased wildfire risk—this ban stops most outdoor burning, including fireworks and flares except for permitted public displays.

Officials also advised residents to allow campfires only in designated recreational areas and to clear dry vegetation around their homes.

At the Ocala City Council meeting on April 15, Dr. Karen Hartsell from Ocala Rehabilitation Associates said the new Zoom Express Car Wash next door at 1544 East Silver Springs Boulevard may create noise issues for her patients including veterans with PTSD as its equipment is planned close to her treatment rooms after long-standing trees were removed. City Manager Pete Lee said the city might ask the developer—Todd and Jackson Kirby—to reposition the equipment if it interferes with proper buffering.

Members of The Motley Crew race small RC sailboats—either 1 meter or 95 cm long—on Lake Tuscawilla at Tuscawilla Park, with 20 local skippers competing every Wednesday and Sunday at noon.

The National Collegiate Equestrian Association Championship will take place on Saturday at the World Equestrian Center (arenas 5 and 6) where college riders from several schools will compete in fence jumping, western, horsemanship and reining events.

The public is welcome to watch the contests.

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.

Kids Day Celebration

4-6 PM — Graffiti Seafood & More — Free activities — Celebrate Kids Day with games, balloon art, and fun activities for the whole family.

Marion County Youth Job Fair 2025

3:30-6:00 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP — Free entry — Explore job opportunities tailored for young adults aged 16 to 24 in a supportive environment.

Extravaganza 2025

May 2-4 — World Equestrian Center — Entry fees apply — Witness the elegance and grace of the Paso Fino horse in action.

Sullivan Cadillac & Corvette Club Spring Cruise-In

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Sullivan Cadillac — Free entry — Enjoy an evening filled with beautiful cars, food, and the chance to win a trophy.

Pattern of Transformation Workshop

5:30-7 p.m. — Marion Cultural Alliance at Brick City Center for the Arts — Free entry with a suggested donation — Immerse in African dance and painting in a vibrant interactive workshop featuring live drumming.

Mother's Day 5k

8-10 a.m. — Ocala City Hall — Registration fee applies — Celebrate mothers while enjoying a picturesque run through Ocala.