Thursday, May 7th, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 7th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ An Ocala family reported their dog Apollo was taken by a woman in a white vehicle on April 25 at 7:10 p.m. near their home on Highway 328; they are offering a $1,000 reward and ask anyone with information to call or text 352-342-1810. Ocala-News
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ The Florida Department of Health plans to revoke Ocala athletic trainer Danio’s license after he was cleared of felony charges last year and diagnosed with anxiety and adjustment disorder amid stress from the dropped case—action that follows a state suspension and a Board of Athletic Training petition for possible fines. Ocala-News
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Ocala City Council approved up to $193K in economic incentives for E-One Inc., which plans to boost production by 35% and nearly double its workforce. The deal requires E-One to stay at its SW 57th Avenue facility for at least five years — a groundbreaking ceremony is set for May 12. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ Duke Energy will automatically apply a $90.5M refund as a reduction in fuel charges from June through September following overcharged hurricane restoration costs, saving customers about $5.62 each month. Ocala StarBanner
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ A fire weather watch is in effect today for 13 counties as temperatures hit the 90s + drought conditions remain severe while scattered showers with a cold front may bring limited relief in north Florida. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ Hurricane Preparedness Week runs May 3–9 and reminds residents to board up windows, secure loose items and move vehicles to safe spots when storms threaten, according to NOAA. Officials advise preparing emergency supplies like a go-bag and following local evacuation orders if needed. Ocala StarBanner
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ On April 30, a group known for residential development purchased 561.32 acres for $4.6 million from St. Joe Farm LLC; the parcels in Anthony near NE Jacksonville Road vary from 4 to 230 acres. Ocala-News
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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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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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