Good morning, Ocala.

Food4Kids Backpack Program of North Florida got a $10,000 donation from Suncoast Foundations today — the executive director said the funds will help supply essential items and keep children’s dignity intact.

Local organizers will hold the Wreaths Across America ceremony at noon on Dec.

13 at Highland Memorial Park—1515 N.E. 3rd St.—to honor veterans by placing fresh wreaths on graves, while Highland Memorial Park, Ocala Blue Star Mothers and the Stone Creek Veterans Association have sponsored 1,378 out of 1,850 needed wreaths; sponsorships cost $17 each and must be made by 11:59 p.m. Dec. 1.

Destiny Community Church in Newberry opened its tent Monday to sell Christmas trees for a good cause—supporting local efforts to share hope during the season.

Marion County Fire Rescue contained a fire in a Silver Springs shed on November 24th that threatened nearby buildings & animals.

By mid-November, many new restaurants opened in Ocala and Marion County, including Fridas, Koto Hibachi Express and Chicken Guy! that offer new dining choices.

Ongoing construction on developments such as a drive-thru coffee shop at State Road 200— and a downtown hotel— also signals growth for local business.

A new deli and beer tavern called The Inn Spot is asking for a special use permit to open at the historic Ocklawaha Inn at 13490 E Highway 25 in Ocklawaha.

The business, owned by Wise's Enterprises, plans to sell deli meats and cheeses by the pound, serve traditional sandwiches with homemade sides and offer arcade games and a pool table — its permit is under review by the Marion County Board of County Commissioners.

Community Stages—a nonprofit theatre group—will present its third annual Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer JR at three Ocala venues this December.

The 60-minute musical will feature 12 young actors using low-tech staging, with a free excerpt on Dec. 5 at the downtown gazebo, a full performance on Dec. 7 at Silver Springs State Park with waived park fees, and another free show on Dec. 13 at Mary Sue Rich Community Center.

Marion County commissioners approved three major projects on November 18th including a Home Depot at the entrance of On Top of the World, a Target store with an apartment complex, and changes for a 40-home luxury eco-community near the Withlacoochee River — moves that boost local development. The projects will move forward soon — giving more retail and housing options to the area.

A local resident said the new medians on State Road 200 force drivers to travel extra blocks to reach businesses and create hazards from backed up traffic and crowded westbound lanes—planners have not yet resolved these issues.

Property owner Scott Adams from Carbine Stable is seeking to build a simulated munitions facility on a 6.5-acre site in Citra to offer non-lethal training for personal protection.

The application—reviewed by the Marion County Planning and Zoning Commission—is set for further review by the County Commissioners.

A south Marion County golf course in Summerfield was sold on November 13 for nearly $15 million to Spruce Creek South Operations LLC—registered to Trenam Law.

The sale comes less than a month after another local golf course sold for $7.5 million.

Marion County coaches have selected an ultimate starting five from 13 top girls basketball players and are asking fans to vote for the 2025-26 Player of the Year — voting closes December 1st at 12 pm.

Marion County is holding a vote for Athlete of the Week with 37 nominees, including state meet competitors and top high school players.

The online poll closes Friday at noon — the winner will be announced shortly after.

A Tuna Christmas Live Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket information available — Experience the festive comedy that brings laughter to the holiday season.

Symphony Under the Lights

7:30 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Free entry — Enjoy a joyful outdoor concert performed by the Ocala Symphony and Youth Symphony under festive lights.

Ocala Holiday Market & Food Festival

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion — Free entry — Enjoy a festive day filled with unique crafts, delicious food, and fun activities for the whole family.

A Tuna Christmas

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a hilarious holiday celebration with beloved characters returning to spread joy.

9th Annual Florida Thoroughbred Transformation Expo

7 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Florida Horse Park — $25 entry — Discover diverse equine talents at a weekend filled with competitions and prizes for thoroughbreds.

The Nutcracker Ballet

7-8:30 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Family-friendly event — Experience the enchanting story of Clara and the Nutcracker in a magical ballet performance.

Free Movie: Wicked for Good

2-5 p.m. — Epic Theatres of Ocala — Free entry — Experience the magic of Oz in the beloved story of friendship and courage.

The Nutcracker Ballet

2-4 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical holiday classic brought to life by the Sheila Ruotolo Dance Company.

Winter Wonderland Holiday Market

12-4 p.m. — Ocala Downtown Market — Free entry — Experience a magical holiday market filled with festive cheer and fun for the whole family.

Christmas Eve Service

6:30-7:30 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free entry — Celebrate Christmas Eve with music, carols, and a meaningful message.