Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 13th of December.
Good morning, Ocala.
🏘️ Community
Forest Lawn Funeral Home hosted its Evening of Remembrance Friday night, blending grief support with a celebration of life through round-table seating, lantern lighting, and a remembrance tree, and it donated toys to the Boys & Girls Club of Marion County.
Marion County Judicial Center is hosting its annual Home for the Holidays celebration today — the event brings families together to witness the finalization of an adoption.
💼 Business
Men’s Wearhouse opened its new Ocala store last month at Market Street at Heath Brook.
The modern location offers tailored suits and tuxedo rentals along with digital interactive displays (open Monday through Saturday and Sunday).
🌲 Environment
A temporary drawdown of the Rodman Reservoir has lowered water from 18 to 11 feet, revealing the natural channel of the Ocklawaha River, reopened springs, and ancient cypress remains.
Experts say the drawdown will run through March to help gauge restoration benefits for the region & boost eco-tourism.
🏛️ Government
A concerned Marion County resident said that several collisions have occurred near the new Dollar General on U.S. 301 next to NE 175th Street Road and urged officials to install a traffic light immediately (promised surveys yielded no fixes).
The Marion County Sheriff's Office unveiled plans for its annual patrol vehicle light show as part of its long-standing holiday tradition.
The display is expected to offer an enhanced experience for community members throughout the season — the department continues its commitment to local festivities.
Governor Ron DeSantis appointed two Ocala women (Deborah Becker and Patricia Schafer) to the Florida Board of Nursing, expanding local influence over state nursing policies.
📰 Lifestyle
Marion County Animal Services is offering name your price adoptions this month where pets like 7-year-old Woods, 1-year-old Chow Mein and 10-year-old Mama Jeanne can find new homes.
The shelter is open Tuesday through Saturday and all animals are sterilized, vaccinated, licensed and microchipped.
📰 Real Estate
Gaitway Plaza in Ocala now has new ownership after it was sold to a Chicago area real estate company (details pending).
🎉 Ocala Events
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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.
Young Artist Competition - Honors Recital
3-5 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Complimentary tickets for subscribers — Experience the inspiring performances of young musicians competing for soloist opportunities with the Ocala Symphony.
🏠 Ocala Real Estate
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