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A fiberglass horse, stabilized over grass, with trees, two men talking and a building in the background.
Local
2 days ago
Ocala waives one-year rezoning pause for commercial tract, second waiver since 2022

Ocala City Council has approved both requests since 2022 to waive its one-year rezoning waiting period, most recently allowing a new owner to seek commercial zoning on land just approved for homes.

A large, brick building features stairs line with yellow metal railings and short, red brick walls. Over the entrance is a smaller overhang with red letters on the front reading, "city hall."
Community
2 days ago
City Council clears former city attorney to represent developers on Heath Brook rezoning despite past DRI work

Ocala City Council approved former City Attorney Robert Batsel Jr.’s request to represent developers seeking to rezone land inside the Heath Brook Development of Regional Impact from residential to commercial use.

First Ave Bar and Bistro Ribbon Cutting ceremony
Food & Drink
3 days ago
First Avenue Bar & Bistro Opens in Former La Cuisine Space in downtown Ocala

Owner Don Gulling launched the new American comfort-food concept on October 20 and held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 4 at the 1920s building that once housed a horse-feed store long before it was foodie favorite La Cuisine.

A group of families stand together on a stage, posing for a picture in front of a gazebo. The gazebo is decorated with Christmas lights and a wreath while the trees behind it have lights strung on them.
Holiday Guide
4 days ago
Light Up Ocala announces 2026 date for one of the region’s biggest holiday celebrations

One of the biggest seasonal events in North Central Florida will return Nov. 21.

Community
4 days ago
Gainesville’s strolling business and restaurant district The Streatery opens Nov. 6

The pilot project into creating a more walkable downtown gets a a ribbon cutting this week.

city hall/ fall decor
Local
4 days ago
Ocala Council approves remaining grant funds for Foxwood Farms sewer project

Foxwood Farms, a 55-and-older mobile home community in Ocala, will switch from its package treatment plant to the city’s central sewer under a state-funded project expected to cut thousands of pounds of nitrogen from Rainbow Springs each year.

marion county florida seal
Community
5 days ago
Marion County commissioners approve amendment to interlocal agreement for medical examiner services

On Nov. 3, 2026, Marion County approved an amendment to a medical examiner cost-sharing agreement.

A white teacup, tea plate and tea pot withe flower designs on them sit on a table with white tablecloth. In the teacup is a spoon and matcha tea.
Community
5 days ago
Interfaith Emergency Services to host Ladies High Tea fundraiser season kickoff

The Launch Party for the nonprofit’s largest fundraiser of the year takes place on Monday, Nov. 9.

early learning books balls blocks
Health & Wellness
5 days ago
CF partners with children’s health orgs for ‘Books, Balls and Blocks’ learning event

The event will emphasize the importance of early learning and development and introduce Ocala parents to a wealth of resources.

Florida Highway Patrol cruiser parked at night with emergency lights on
Holiday Guide
6 days ago
Florida Highway Patrol’s annual ‘Stuff the Charger’ food drive is underway

The FHP is collecting donations of nonperishable food items at stations across Florida throughout November.

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