Good morning, Ocala.

The US Forest Service said rain helped slow the wildfire in Ocala National Forest so its teams were pulled from the scene yesterday evening—Marion County Fire Rescue will manage the final efforts and urges anyone to call 911 if they see smoke.

Ocala business owner Rashad Jones of Big Lee’s BBQ joined Guy Fieri as a guest host on Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives that aired on Friday, May 2 + the show highlighted Gainesville-based Germain’s with its gourmet chicken sandwiches.

A former Marion County deputy, 40-year-old Christina Thagard, was arrested on Saturday morning for allegedly robbing a TD Bank by handing a threatening note to an employee and taking more than $5,000—police found cash, clothing, and items in her vehicle that linked her to the crime.

Rock the Country Ocala 2025 will be held at the Florida Horse Park on May 9 and 10 and will feature performances starting at 2:30 p.m. each day with acts including Nickelback and Kid Rock; tickets start at $99.99 and vendors will only accept cards—parking opens at noon.

A local venue will host its first mother-son dance for Mother’s Day on Friday, May 9 at 6 p.m. at Circle Square Commons on 8405 SW 80th Street in Ocala & visitors can enjoy music, arts and crafts, and food for an evening of fun.

A boil water notice was issued on Monday for customers between NE 23rd St and NE 14th St, west of NE 30th Ave, and east of NE 22nd Ave due to a water main break—officials said the notice will remain until a bacteriological survey confirms the water is safe to drink.

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.