Good morning, Ocala.

Community With A Heart kicks off its holiday campaign to help Marion County residents in need by paying vendors directly for services such as rent, utilities, and car repairs—this volunteer-run program has raised $1.9 million since its start in 1986.

Night Owl Bakery has opened its new location at 56 SE 1st Avenue in downtown Ocala today — replacing the old Soleil spot — and sells coffee, hand-rolled bagels, sourdough breads, and daily treats.

Owned by Jessica Ferrara, the bakery will be open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. today with extended hours and will close for Thanksgiving and Black Friday before reopening on November 29.

Today, plans for a new Buc-ee's in Tallahassee were confirmed; the 75,000-square-foot store will have 120 gas pumps and 795 parking spots as part of a 73-acre development that will undergo detailed review and public hearings soon.

Buc-ee's will break ground in early 2026 and is expected to open in 2027—adding to planned locations in Ocala, Fort Pierce, and Port Charlotte.

Marion County residents expressed disappointment after Kroger ended its grocery delivery service in Florida and laid off nearly 1,000 employees from its Lake County facility — they worry that alternative services like Instacart will not keep frozen and cold items at the right temperature for those who need it most.

On Black Friday, November 28, the post office, banks, and UPS will operate with regular mail delivery while FedEx will offer limited services and the stock markets will close early at 1 p.m. ET—local grocery stores, restaurants, and retail outlets will have extended hours—providing key holiday service updates for shoppers.

Small Business Saturday in Central Florida will feature many events to support local shops, and in Ocala the Downtown Historic Square event will offer free hot chocolate, a cookie decorating station, and raffle prizes—while other areas plan free shuttles and breakfast deals.

The events will let consumers enjoy special offers while helping local businesses.

The Ocala Symphony Orchestra and Chorus performed Handel’s Messiah on Nov.

23 at the Reilly Arts Center, leaving the audience deeply moved by the blend of solo and choral sections — with highlights such as the 'Hallelujah' chorus and Stokowski’s lush arrangement. The concert marked a cherished tradition and a powerful welcome to the holiday season.

Track Line Rail LLC, a Texas-based firm, faces mounting local opposition over its creosote-treated railroad tie facility near the Rainbow River as the Florida DEP has not yet decided on the air-pollution permit+ local officials have ordered removal of the ties amid reports of a strong chemical odor affecting nearby residents. Community groups and government agencies warn the project could risk environmental damage and public health by releasing toxic chemicals into the groundwater and air.

Gov. Ron DeSantis told a crowd in Crystal River last week that Florida and the continental United States had no hurricane impact this Atlantic storm season — even though the season does not end until Nov.

30 — while officials continue to monitor weather conditions closely.

Marion County has recorded over 1,500 drug overdose deaths since 2015 and has ranked among the highest in the state for overdose fatalities—148 deaths were recorded in 2024 with a rate nearly double the state average.

Health officials point to these figures as a clear warning of the county's ongoing drug overdose crisis.

State inspectors temporarily closed Bonefish Grill in Ocala — the restaurant failed health inspections from Nov.

17—23 after inspectors found 31 violations including poor food handling and pest issues. Follow-up inspections extended the closure until corrective actions were completed.

Marion County Health Department officials said a cat captured downtown on Nov.

20 tested positive for rabies and issued a 60-day alert for the area between Bonnie Heath Boulevard, Southeast 19th Street, 16th Avenue, and Southwest 16th Avenue—residents are urged to avoid contact with wild animals.

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.