Daily
Ocala
Thursday, April 30th, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 30th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Canaan Missionary Baptist Church dedicated its new sanctuary on Apr. 29, featuring a bright worship space with rows of purple chairs that mirror the church's colors and offer a welcoming setting for community members. WCJB
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Kaley Utley's K's Blooms will open at 405 E Silver Springs Boulevard near downtown with a soft opening from May 6 to May 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering paper wrap bouquets, pre-orders, and floral workshops. Ocala-News
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Florida gas prices increased 7 cents on April 29, following a 14-cent rise on April 28, which pushed the average to $4.15 a gallon; Monroe County recorded the highest price at $4.38, while Bay County saw the lowest. Residents can use local apps to compare current rates. Ocala StarBanner
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Low water levels in the Santa Fe River amid an exceptional drought are forcing local businesses to limit operations while critics question Blue Triton Brands’ permitted withdrawal of nearly 1 million gallons daily from the Ginnie Springs area. Officials assure that state rules guide all large water users. WCJB
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The rural protection group SORA filed a writ of certiorari in the Fifth Circuit Court seeking to block approval for a Margaritaville water park near Orange Lake. The challenge, co-filed with a local neighbor, does not stop construction and awaits a court decision. Ocala Gazette
- ➤ Florida SSI recipients will receive their May check tomorrow on Friday, May 1 as the Social Security Administration maintains its routine of issuing benefits on the first day each month (adjusting when the date falls on a weekend). Ocala StarBanner
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Florida residents face a rising risk from tick bites as the state Department of Health does not report Lyme disease data; the CDC warns outdoor users to use repellent and check for ticks (especially in parks and wooded areas). Ocala StarBanner
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Ocala’s Cristian Torres, a rising jockey, will debut in the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 2 riding Silent Tactic after competing in the Kentucky Oaks on Friday, May 1 at 8:40 p.m. EST. His journey and dedication are rooted in local thoroughbred training under trainer Mark Casse + family support. Ocala-News
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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.
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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!
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Grand Prix May Dressage Dining Experience
8-11 a.m. — The Equestrian Hotel Terrace — $145 per person — Delight in brunch while world-class dressage athletes compete in the Grand Outdoor Arena.
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Grand Prix May Dressage Dining Experience
6:30-9:30 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — $205 per person — Dine on exquisite buffet meals while world-class equestrians captivate with their grand prix freestyle performances.
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Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Concert
7:30 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Ticket information TBA — Celebrate the 33rd anniversary of this iconic swing band with a night of vibrant music and high-energy performance.
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