Good morning, Ocala.

Mi Familia Mexicana is a new restaurant owned by a local family in east Ocala that opened on March 14 and is earning positive reviews for its tasty traditional dishes plus friendly service.

It is located at Six Gun Plaza and serves tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and more in a colorful setting.

The remains of Blaine Louis Brown Jr.—an Ocala man called Bunny—were identified with new DNA tests from a cold case in St. Lucie County, and he was reported missing in Marion County on the day his body was found bound and shot, with officials saying he may have been involved in drug smuggling.

The family of a man missing for 39 years now has answers after Ocala officials identified Blaine Louis Brown Jr. — known as 'Bunny' — when DNA tests matched his remains found near Fort Pierce, and detectives are still searching for his killer.

Parents of a 5th grader who died by suicide two years ago are suing the Marion County School Board for over $100,000, saying teacher Donna Marie White—accused of repeatedly bullying him at Legacy Elementary—ignored the parents' complaints before her contract was not renewed for the 2023-2024 school year. An investigation began after his death and revealed that school officials delayed action despite warnings from his parents.

School officials released graduation schedules last week, and nearly 3,000 Marion County high school seniors will graduate in ceremonies beginning in mid-May.

The schedules list dates and times at schools such as Belleview, Dunnellon, and North Marion—helping families plan to attend.

Marion County citizens plan to attend today's School Board meeting, urging officials to take their time choosing a new superintendent to replace outgoing Diane Gullett—after the board named Danielle Brewer as interim superintendent last week.

Marion County Athlete of the Week poll is open with 53 nominees from sports including flag football, softball, baseball, volleyball and track and field—voters can cast one vote per hour until Thursday at 4:59 p.m.

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.

Fable Fest

10 AM – 5 PM — Brown & Brown Farms and Country Store — Cost Info Unavailable — Experience an immersive fantasy world with quests, mythical creatures, and diverse attractions.

Axe Throwing & Tiny Golf Event

11 AM – 4 PM — Homestead Park — Axe Throwing $15 for 30 min | Tiny Golf $5 per round — Enjoy fun-filled outdoor activities with friends and family at Homestead Park.

Open House in Ocala

12-3 p.m. — 8205 SW 78th Terrace Rd — Free entry — Discover a charming home in a vibrant 55+ community with fantastic amenities.

Geek Fest May Edition

12:00 – 11:59 PM — Ocala Downtown Market — Free entry — Dive into a wonderland of over 60 vendors specializing in video games, vintage toys, comic books, and more.

Twilight Trail Trot

11:10 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. — Santos Trailhead — Registration fees apply — Enjoy a thrilling twilight trail running event with local community support.