Good morning, Ocala.

Protesters gathered at Bo Diddley Plaza on May 3 to demand child welfare reforms after Paisley Brown, a 3-year-old who died in March amid allegations of abuse and neglect; community members urge officials to address systemic issues.

Glenda Myrick, a kindergarten teacher at Ward-Highlands Elementary, was recognized as the Florida Credit Union/Star-Banner Amazing Teacher of the Month on May 3 after her colleague nominated her.

She has built a classroom (with about 19 students) where every child feels heard and valued.

Hurricane Preparedness Week runs from May 3 to May 9 and urges residents to check if their home is in a flood-prone area or an evacuation zone (guidance from the National Hurricane Center and NOAA) so they can be ready for the upcoming hurricane season.

Restaurant.com helps local diners save 20% on checks of $10+ with code FOOD20, available through Sunday, May 31; the platform’s digital certificates never expire and support favorite local restaurants.

Ocala officials will vote Tuesday, May 5 on a major 251-acre mixed-use development in southwest Ocala that could add over 2,000 residences and commercial space.

The plan includes measures to protect traffic flows and residential privacy with 30-foot landscape buffers.

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.

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.

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.

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.