Daily
Ocala
Friday, October 31st, 2025
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 31st of October.
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ The family of 18-year-old Shannon Rushing said her funeral — set for Saturday, Nov. 8 at 9 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Ocala — comes after she was hit by a car on Monday while walking to her bus stop. WCJB
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Heritage Golf Group acquired the Country Club of Ocala as one of three properties in a multi-property deal, adding the 18-hole course at 6823 SE 12th Circle to its 46-club portfolio—its purchase follows a careful search for long-term success. The club offers tennis, pickleball, an Olympic pool and a full-service fitness center and is expected to benefit from Heritage’s ongoing investment in quality facilities. Ocala-News
- ➤ A 4,500-square-foot drive-thru liquor and tobacco shop will soon open at 2060 SW County Road 484 near the busy I-75/County Road 484 interchange in Ocala, planned by property owners Fevil Patel, Bipinkumar Patel and Rajesh Patel. The two businesses will join other upcoming commercial projects in the area—though an opening date has not yet been announced. Ocala-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Mount Zion AME Church in Ocala said it is blessed that its gospel song 'Presence' is under Grammy consideration for best gospel performance. The choir Zion’s Glory performed the 4-minute ballad during the Recording Academy’s first round of voting from October 3 to October 15—nominees will be announced November 7. Ocala-News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Marion Technical College hosted a ribbon cutting—launching new diesel and aviation mechanics programs for high school and adult students. The training may enroll up to 100 dual-enrolled students—who will learn to become aviation powerplant or airframe mechanics. WCJB
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Ocala stores and food banks are preparing for a pause in SNAP benefits as the federal government shutdown continues, and local agencies say residents who rely on the program may face delays in receiving support. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ A rest area along the northbound lanes of I-75 in Marion County remains closed for upgrades and is expected to reopen sometime in 2026—work began in August 2023 and has faced delays from weather. Ocala-News
- ➤ Marion County Fire Rescue launched the free online portal Community Connect to let residents share emergency details—like the location of vulnerable occupants, fire safety features, and pets—to help firefighters respond faster during house fires. Fewer than 60 locals have signed up so far, and officials plan to boost enrollment through community events and by adding a QR code to county tax bills. Ocala Gazette
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ GHS libero Addy Hauptman reached 1,000 career digs—earning her TV20 Meldon Law Scholar Athlete of the Week honor—and was celebrated for her strong play on and off the court. WCJB
- ➤ The 51st Kingdom of the Sun high school basketball tournament schedule will begin on Dec. 26th at Vanguard High School with 16 teams—13 from Florida and others from out-of-state—featuring matchups like Ocala Vanguard hosting North Marion at 7:50 p.m.; ticket details will be released a few weeks before the event. Ocala StarBanner
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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.
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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.
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November USEA Horse Trials
November 8-9 — Majestic Oaks Ocala — Entry fees apply — Witness thrilling equestrian competition across three phases at this prestigious horse trials event.
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2025 Ocali Country Days Festival
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Silver River Museum & Environmental Education Center — $10 per person, children 5 and under FREE — Experience Florida’s history with live music, crafts, and delicious food.
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2025 Ocala November Show Series II: National Hunter/Level 6 Jumper
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free entry — Enjoy two weeks of exciting National Hunter and Level 6 Jumper competitions.
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HSITP 2025 Championship Show
1 PM - 10 PM — Covered Arena at The Grand Oaks Resort — Entry fees apply — Compete for year-end awards in a thrilling equestrian championship event.
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Paso Fino Fall Festival
8 AM – 11 PM — Florida Horse Park — Admission details not provided — Experience an exciting day of Paso Fino horse shows with food, music, and family fun.
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Brown's Christmas Market 2025
10 AM – 4 PM — Brown & Brown Farms and Country Store — Free park and shop — Enjoy a festive market filled with unique gifts, crafts, and fun activities for kids.
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