Good morning, Ocala.

Lily’s Pad reopened at Lillian Bryant Park in Ocala after a multi-week closure to fix lightning damage and upgrade the plumbing and filtration system—ensuring safe, consistent water pressure across its features; it is open daily from sunrise to sunset until November 15.

FWC is accepting online applications for the 2026 goliath grouper harvest beginning March 1 and ending May 31—anglers must apply by Oct.

15 for one of 200 permits that cost $10 to apply and $150 for residents or $500 for non-residents. Permits allow one fish per person with fishing allowed only for groupers between 24 and 36 inches in designated state waters.

The Ocala City Council will review a proposal to spend $492,000 to replace outdated computers that cannot be upgraded to Windows 11 at their meeting on Tuesday, October 7 at 4 p.m. New equipment will be installed in multiple departments—such as police and security—to enhance IT efficiency and security.

Marion County’s roads will see big updates as state and local transportation officials work on plans to fix problem spots and support growth—Director Robert Balmes said residents will see several impactful projects from 2025 to 2030.

Ocala and Marion County officials will proclaim October 14 as Charlie Kirk Day of Remembrance at Tuesday's meetings at City Hall and the McPherson Governmental Complex—this proclamation honors the late activist who was shot on September 10 and remembered for his calls for free speech and civic participation.

Puss caterpillars are back in Florida — their venomous spines can cause pain like a broken bone if touched.

Residents should avoid these insects near oak and elm trees and treat stings with tape and ice.

A Tampa-based developer acquired the 68-unit Village Square Apartments in northeast Ocala for $9.9 million on September 19—marking another multi-million dollar sale of a local multi-family property.

The 1974 complex on 5.3 acres at 1715 NE 36th Avenue recently received updates such as new roofs and modernized kitchens.

The FHSAA is adding a new Florida Invitational Tournament that gives 16 teams not in the traditional playoffs a chance to extend their season—regional play will begin on November 13 and championships will be held at Villages Charter School on December 5—6.

The new format followed a test last year when Fort Meade beat Dixie County for the Rural title.

Last Friday, seven high school football games were played in Marion County and live score updates were shared via the Star Banner tracker — five games took place near Ocala with North Marion and Vanguard playing a key rivalry match.

Vanguard defeated North Marion 48-7 on Friday, Oct.

3 at North Marion High in Citra when Sergarion Gunsby celebrated a touchdown with Gemarkus Starks—marking an impressive win for the team.

4th Annual Grays Halloween Festival

5-10 p.m. — Ocala Downtown Market — Free entry — Celebrate the Halloween season with fun festivities at this community festival.

Back to the 80's: Dance Fitness Party

1-5 p.m. — Paddock Mall — Donation-based entry — Get your groove on while raising awareness and funds for breast cancer prevention.

Hands-on Volunteer Training for October Ride-a-Test

8:00 AM – 11:59 PM — Florida Horse Park — Free entry — Learn valuable skills while supporting an equestrian event through volunteer opportunities.

Tropical Steel Music Event

6:00–9:30 p.m. — Yellow Pony at World Equestrian Center — Check event page for costs — Enjoy dinner and drinks while grooving to the versatile sounds of Tropical Steel.

Ocala Classic Card Show

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Hilton Ocala — $5 admission, kids 10 & under free — Discover rare sports cards and collectibles while enjoying family-friendly activities and raffles.

KennaDee Acoustic Live

11:30 AM – 2:30 PM — Midtown Station — Free entry — Experience the best of acoustic pop, rock, and soul with a mix of original songs and creative covers.

Loomis Bros. Circus

November 3-4 — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP — Adults $30, Children $8 — Experience a traditional circus filled with athleticism, animals, and nostalgia for the whole family.