Thursday, December 19th, 2024

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Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Frank DeLuca retires and sells DeLuca Toyota, an iconic Ocala dealership established for over 46 years, now rebranded as Gettel Toyota, with a legacy of community support and philanthropy. Ocala-News
- ➤ The Ocala City Council postponed a vote on rezoning a church property for a sober living facility after a local principal raised safety concerns about its proximity to schools. Ocala-News
- ➤ The Ocala City Council opts for a $300,000 drone show over traditional fireworks for the next two Fourth of July celebrations at Tuscawilla Park, citing safety and economic considerations. Ocala-News
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Donghui Liao pleaded guilty to federal charges for his role in a gift card fraud scheme involving over 6,000 stolen gift cards and faces up to ten years in prison. Ocala-News
- ➤ A 31-year-old man in Ocala was convicted of aggravated child abuse for causing life-threatening injuries to an infant in 2020 and faces up to 30 years in prison. Ocala-News
- ➤ A 77-year-old Kentucky man was arrested in Florida for pointing an unloaded gun at his neighbor during a dispute over cat feces. WCJB
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ MOOYAH, a burger chain, is set to open its first Ocala restaurant on January 13, 2025, joining a diverse menu with options catering to various dietary needs. Ocala-News
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Four new top restaurants, including Franco's Italian Restaurant and Live Fire Chefs Cafe, opened in Ocala/Marion County in 2024, offering diverse dining options from fine dining to modernist cuisine. Ocala StarBanner
SHOP NEWS
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SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Forest Wildcats improved to a 7-1 season record after securing a 71-49 victory against the South Lake Eagles, highlighted by exceptional three-point shooting and robust defense. Ocala Gazette
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LEAF Series: Nature-Inspired Decoration Workshop
Participants will explore the art of creating decorations using natural materials led by Ina Anderson at Sholom Park.
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Away in a Manger: Morgan's Christmas Special
Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas with an evening of music and praise at Morgan's Christmas Special event.
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Grandview Clydesdales Christmas Tours
Experience a festive evening tour at Grandview Clydesdales with beautiful lights, Christmas decor, and special VIP options for a memorable holiday tradition.
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Exclusive New Year's Eve Celebration at Hilton Ocala
Celebrate the arrival of 2025 with live entertainment, an open bar, and a lavish reception at Hilton Ocala's New Year's Eve Party.
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Brick City Anime Festival Weekend Pass
The Brick City Anime Festival, held at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, FL, features discounted ticket prices and promises a vibrant celebration of anime culture.
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Park After Dark: 1980's Concert Featuring Napoleon Complex
Enjoy an outdoor concert featuring the Napoleon Complex Band, performing hits from the 1980s at Sholom Park.
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Operation OCALA 2025 - Endurance Challenge
Operation OCALA 2025 is a 65+ mile endurance event through the Ocala National Forest, requiring participants to carry a 25 lb backpack and navigate a challenging course within 24 hours.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.
~ Maya Angelou
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