Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 16th of December.
Good morning, Ocala.
🏘️ Community
Interfaith Emergency Services will host the Legacies of Love luncheon at 11 a.m. Feb.
13 at the College of Central Florida Klein Conference Center to honor Dr. Tina Chandra and Casius "Cash" Pealer, Ph.D. — both of whom have made lasting contributions to our community while supporting local services.
The 70th Ocala Christmas Parade took place on Saturday, Dec.
13, 2025, starting from the McPherson Government Complex at 5:30 p.m. with over 125 units including Santa and civic groups and ended at Tuscawilla Park after celebrating a theme of Christmas Through the Decades and honoring grand marshal Bernadette Castro.
The Community Foundation for Ocala & Marion County is accepting nominations until Jan.
15 for the Inspire Gala awards that honor local charitable leadership. The gala will be held on March 7 at Circle Square Cultural Center and will recognize nonprofits, businesses, and individuals.
Glen Owen, 63, walked and ran about 300 miles from Ocala to Miami over 9½ days to raise about $5,000 for college scholarships for students in Jamaica.
He lost 10 pounds, three toenails and three pairs of shoes while meeting his personal challenge.
🎭 Culture
Kristine Pearson (61) of Ocala, a longtime house painter turned acrylic and watercolor artist with Rainbow Springs Art in Dunnellon, was named an Emerging Artist by the city as her painting of the Withlacoochee River is on display at City Hall through March 9.
December brings festive traditions to locals as they embrace unique holiday customs — Jill Paglia decorates her home with multiple Christmas trees to mark the season.
🎓 Education
Officials named five finalists for Marion County’s 2026 Teacher of the Year after visits this week + honored rookie teacher and school nurse.
Honorees will gather at the Golden Apple Gala on Saturday, Jan. 31 at Reilly Arts Center in Ocala where one finalist wins a Genesis G70 lease.
🏛️ Government
The Marion County Board of County Commissioners will vote today at 9 a.m. at the McPherson Governmental Complex on a proposed Capozolli Hills development for 72 single-family homes at 7325 SW 80th Street in Ocala — the project seeks a rezoning from agricultural to planned unit development.
📰 Real Estate
Ocala was named the nation’s second most popular moving destination in the latest Migration Report by Move Buddha, with 309 (in to 100 out) boosting the local housing market due to affordable options.
The owners of World Equestrian Center & Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club bought a 77-acre farm at 2599 NW 100th Ave for $7.5 million on Dec.
9. The purchase consolidates their equestrian holdings and expands local training and breeding facilities.
🎉 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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