Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 2nd of May.
Good morning, Ocala.
Ocala’s Recreation and Parks Department is hosting a free fishing program at Tuscawilla Park on Saturday, May 3 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. during which Ocala Park Rangers will teach fishing basics like baiting and casting, and visitors of all ages can catch and release fish.
Jessica Harwell, who was traveling with her 14-year-old daughter and 61-year-old stepfather when the deadly head-on collision occurred, said her family is slowly recovering and asked the community for help.
An Ocala brother and sister were arrested for a Marion County bus incident on Monday, April 28 when Bryan allegedly threw brass knuckles at the bus, shattering a window and causing about $400 in damage (he now faces charges including criminal mischief, carrying a prohibited weapon, and disturbing a school function) while his sister confronted the driver and later said a seat change was racially motivated (she remains in custody on a $1,000 bond).
At a Tuesday meeting, the Marion County School Board approved Dr. Danielle Brewer as interim superintendent, who will serve until April 29 while a transition period through July 11 allows current Superintendent Dr. Diane V.
Gullett to manage operations. Several residents supported Brewer’s appointment—citing her leadership—and urged that a national search be conducted for a permanent replacement.
At least half of the 20 horses in the Kentucky Derby have ties to Marion County, including three favorites (Journalism at 3 to 1, Sovereignty at 5 to 1 and Sandman at 6 to 1).
Churchill Downs will host the 151st race, which airs on NBC tomorrow at 2:30 p.m.
Buchholz baseball team beat Tate 3 to 2 in Game 1 of the Class 6A Regional Semifinals — Hudson Sapp’s go-ahead RBI improved the team record to 29 to 1.
Trinity Catholic softball team became District Champions after defeating Taylor 10 to 0.
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.
3rd Annual Children's Miracle Network 5K Walk/Run
8:00-9:30 a.m. — Baseline Road Trailhead — Entry fee applicable — Participate in a fundraising event supporting children in need through UF Health.
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