Tea At The Fort!

On September 23rd experience a delightful seasonal pioneer afternoon tea, featuring an array of finger foods and delectable desserts. Explore the culinary traditions of pioneers and discover how they incorporated native Florida plants and herbs into their cuisine. Savor a diverse selection of autumn and winter flavors during this educational and flavorful event. Advance registration is required to participate.

New New New!

Exciting news for the College of Central Florida as they embark on a significant development project. A generous allocation of over $13.5 million is earmarked for the construction of CF's new Health Science Technology Education Building, a much-anticipated addition to the Ocala campus. With plans set in motion, construction is slated to commence in the middle of the upcoming year. Anticipating prompt completion, the project aims to wrap up in time for the Fall semester of 2024. College administrators stress the necessity of this expansion to meet the burgeoning workforce demand in the ever-growing north-central Florida region. This endeavor represents a crucial step forward in enhancing educational facilities and resources to benefit both students and the local community.

New Lanes In Marion Oaks!

The Marion Oaks MSTV board has responded to the community's growth by making a significant decision. In light of the increasing population in Marion Oaks, they have chosen to enhance the road infrastructure by adding an additional lane for those entering Marion Oaks via Road 484 and another lane for those exiting onto State Road I-75. Notably, this construction project has been thoughtfully planned to ensure that the beloved Marion Oaks waterfall remains untouched. The commencement of this construction is scheduled for the year 2024. This proactive approach aims to accommodate the growing needs of the area while preserving its natural beauty.

CEP After-Hours Event!

A longstanding institution in our community for more than three decades, "Business After Hours" stands as the quintessential networking extravaganza hosted by the CEP (Chamber of Economic Prosperity). This event is a monthly tradition, always occurring on the third Thursday of each month. Consider partaking in this convivial gathering alongside several hundred fellow CEP partners, offering an informal atmosphere for networking, accompanied by delectable cuisine, a variety of beverages, and the enticing allure of winning exciting door prizes all while having an amazing time. 

CEP After-Hours Event!

A longstanding institution in our community for more than three decades, "Business After Hours" stands as the quintessential networking extravaganza hosted by the CEP (Chamber of Economic Prosperity). This event is a monthly tradition, always occurring on the third Thursday of each month. Consider partaking in this convivial gathering alongside several hundred fellow CEP partners, offering an informal atmosphere for networking, accompanied by delectable cuisine, a variety of beverages, and the enticing allure of winning exciting door prizes all while having an amazing time.

Bomb Testing In The Ocala National Forest.

Residents residing near the Ocala National Forest might notice an uptick in ambient noise this week as the U.S. Navy engages in bomb testing activities at the Pinecastle Impact Range. However, besides the audible disruptions, the only noteworthy consideration for those in the vicinity of the range should revolve around potential changes in wildlife behavior due to the disturbances. During periods of bombing exercises, local wildlife may experience temporary dislocation. Therefore, exercise increased vigilance when navigating the Ocala National Forest and its environment. Take measures to secure any items around your residence that could draw wildlife. 

Time to Explore!

Join the Ocala Park Rangers on September 20th for the recurring Wildlife Wednesdays! Every week, you'll have the chance to encounter various native creatures and delve into their distinctive Florida habitats. This week's focus will be on panthers and bobcats, offering a fascinating insight into these magnificent animals' lives. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with Florida's wildlife in a meaningful way!

30 Years Of Service.

Best In The Nation!

A 7-year-old boy hailing from Ocala recently made history, earning the title of the nation's top javelin thrower in his age group. Joseph A. Sorrentino, III secured the first position in the boys' javelin throw (8 and under category) during the 2023 Amateur Athletic Union Junior Olympic Games, which were held at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, spanning from July 29th to August 5th. Remarkably, only Sorrentino and Valentine managed to launch their javelins beyond the 80-foot mark, surpassing all other competitors in the event.

Princess Treatment!

An upscale children's spa located in East Ocala has been offering a luxurious spa experience to numerous girls, teenagers, and preteens since its grand opening earlier this year. Created by Kierra Anderson, a prominent local real estate agent, and former Miss Florida Gator, Pamper Palace stands out for delivering young girls a comprehensive, high-end spa experience akin to what is found at exclusive boutique spas. The spa offers a wide array of services, including nail care treatments, skincare facials, indulgent hand and foot massages, and even a delightful ice cream bar.

Wec’s Bridal Expo!

Looking to transform your dream wedding into a beautiful reality? Your search ends here at Expo Center 1 of the World Equestrian Center on September 17th for the Ocala Bridal & Wedding Expo! The array of vendors will be at your service, assisting you in discovering all the essentials to turn your special day into an unforgettable memory. Whether you're in search of exquisite bridal boutiques, tuxedo rentals, skilled photographers, videographers, talented DJs, and beyond, the vendors have you covered with everything you need.

Tuesday Talks

A symbolic groundbreaking ceremony took place on Friday at the Marion Technical College (MTC) campus, marking the commencement of construction on a $5.57 million training facility for automotive, diesel, and aviation technicians. This state-of-the-art facility is expected to be operational before September 2025. Once completed, the 16,000-square-foot building will accommodate up to 100 students, including dual-enrolled high school and adult learners, who will have the opportunity to train as automotive general service technicians, automotive collision refinishing technicians, aviation powerplant/airframe mechanics, and diesel systems technicians. This initiative, as highlighted by Marion County Public Schools in a press release, aligns with the region's growing reputation as a logistics and distribution hub, and the presence of Ocala International Airport. The expansion programs at MTC aim to meet the rising demand for careers in these fields and contribute to the local Ocala/Marion County community by retaining graduates. The new facility will feature three classrooms, multiple work bays, storage space, an office area, and restroom facilities. Additionally, funds will be allocated for the provision of initial technology, tools, equipment, and furniture for the facility, as stated in another MCPS media release.

Sweeny Todd, The Play.

Come to the Ocala Civic Theater for an intense encounter, complete with a side of suspense, as Sweeney harbors deep resentment towards the world. However, the secret ingredient in his and Mrs. Lovett's meat pies isn't beef. He works as a barber, holding a vendetta against a powerful judge, while Mrs. Lovett is fiercely loyal to him. Together, they're poised to achieve great success with their "less-than-stellar pies in London." Retribution is most satisfying when it's delivered cold. This creatively reimagined version of the iconic musical offers a unique twist on the chilling tale, setting a new standard for excellence. Tickets are on sale now!

6th Wawa in Ocala!

A new Wawa store is currently under construction along SW Highway 200, adding to the company's growing presence in Ocala. Situated at 8300 SW 100th Street, this development project has been in progress for more than two years and is aiming for a grand opening in the upcoming fall season. Since 2018, the Pennsylvania-based company has been steadily expanding its footprint in Marion County. This expansion includes five Ocala locations, with a notable trio of Wawa stores that simultaneously opened their doors in 2019 at 3601 East Silver Springs Boulevard, 1001 S Pine Avenue, and 3312 W Silver Springs Boulevard. Presently, Wawa is among several gas station brands with multiple branches in Ocala, alongside RaceTrac, Shell, and Sunoco, among others. Altogether, the city boasts approximately two dozen gas stations operating along its major thoroughfares.

KT Tunstall

KT Tunstall made a significant impact in the music industry with her 2004 debut album, "Eye to the Telescope," which achieved multi-platinum status. This album gave rise to the worldwide hits "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree" and "Suddenly I See." These tracks not only established Tunstall as an enthralling and highly sought-after live artist but also showcased her exceptional songwriting ability, characterized by her unique talent for blending contemplative folk with energetic rock elements. Tickets to see her are on sale now! She will play on Thursday, September 14th at the Riley Arts Center.

Bye Bye Boston Market!

The sole remaining Boston Market in Marion County has recently ceased its operations permanently. This closure comes just a few weeks after the establishment was compelled to shut its doors due to issues related to food supplies and disputes over wages. The restaurant's staff members, who had not received their wages for the last two pay periods, amounting to a month's worth of pay, collectively made the decision, in conjunction with their manager, to keep the restaurant closed until they received their overdue compensation.

Ocala Comic-Con Is Coming!

Get ready for an electrifying experience as Ocala Comic Con makes a triumphant return on September 16th-17th, 2023 at the extraordinary World Equestrian Center in Ocala, FL! Brace yourselves for the 9th edition of Ocala's GRANDEST Comic Con event! Entry is free for children aged 10 and under. Prepare to be enthralled by a star-studded lineup of Media Guests, awe-inspiring Cosplayers, visionary Comic Book Creators, exhilarating Gaming, a treasure trove of Vendors, and so much more!

Mark your calendars for this unforgettable event, set in the Expo 1 venue. The excitement unfolds on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and continues on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Don't miss out on this epic weekend of geeky goodness and limitless fun!

Ocala Symphony Orchestra Taking Auditions!

The Ocala Symphony Orchestra's 33rd Young Artist Competition is open for auditions. If you're between 12 and 25, you can win $2,000 and perform with the orchestra. Apply by October 30, 2023. Finalists announced on January 14, 2024, at Reilly Arts Center. There are junior (12-18) and senior (18-25) divisions. Auditions are limited to under 10 minutes unless you are doing digital submission. The concert will take place in March and not only do winners earn $200, but they also win the chance to play in more concerts throughout March which hold a winning price of $1800 per concert!

Where Were You On 9/11?

There are a few key moments in our lives when we have life-altering moments. The day your first child is born and you become a parent. When you get married. When a loved one passes away. These moments are etched in our minds as days we will always remember. Moments when we realize our lives are forever changed and nothing will ever be the same.

One of those moments was at 8:46 a.m. when Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. For me, it was not at that moment, in fact, I turned off my car and the radio and got gas as I had just pulled into the gas station. I thought it was an accident. I thought it was a small Cessna and a very confused novice pilot.

For me, that moment was when I finished paying for gas and got back in the car. The radio came back on. That was at 9:03 a.m. when Flight 175 crashed into the South tower. I didn’t drive, I didn’t move, I just sat there, in shock.

Life, as I understood it, just stopped.

As I looked around, every single person was the same way. Sad, scared, feeling small and alone.

Every time I share this moment, I find that we weren’t alone. Everyone around the country shared the same moment with me.

I was surprised that there were not a lot of events and memorials going on today. We participated in the Feeding the Fearless event again this year. It was a nice tribute to those who work so hard as police and firefighters within our communities.

But not everyone was able to participate in that.

 So I’m going to ask a favor. I would like you all to take some time today, please, and share your moments. Where were you and what were you doing that morning?

Please post about your 9/11 moment on the Classic Hits Ocala Facebook Page. I want to hear from you. I want to hear your story.

9/11 happened, it was an important moment in history, let’s not forget.

MMM Cheesecake!       

A new cheesecake restaurant is opening tomorrow! It's located at 3420 NE Jacksonville Rd. Order any flavor and choose from several delicious toppings to add on! Come out and show support at the grand opening.

Friday Food Trucks

If you don't really want to try a new restaurant but want some ideas for dinner tonight, Friday Food Trucks will be at the Marion Oaks Community Center Complex. Different food trucks each week so just swing in and check out who is there. The event is from 4 pm-7 pm

Looking For Date Night Ideas?

Over at the WEC in the Yellow Pony from 6-9:30 you can stop in for dinner, drinks, and live entertainment. John Johnson plays traditional and outlaw country, with a splash of southern and classic rock.

Karaoke Night!!

If you were looking for a place to enjoy some Karaoke the NEW & IMPROVED Karaoke Night @ Crazy Cucumber Eatery and Bar ???? from BLUES BROTHERS ENTERTAINMENT might be just what you are looking for! THURSDAYS 6-9 PM.

Farmers Market at Circle Square Commons

Farmers market on Thursdays at Circle Square Commons at On Top Of The World.

Today at Circle Square Commons from 9 am-1 pm you will find a wonderful selection of fresh seasonal produce from local growers as well as baked goods, plants, handmade products, and much more!

Free and open to the public. Well-behaved leashed pets are permitted outside at The Town Square.

District Bar & Grill Grand Opening

District Bar & Grill is having their Grand Opening Today, September 7 from 8 pm-11 pm and Propaganjah will be bringing the Caribbean soul reggae vibes to the beautiful people of Ocala for tonight's event.

14 Year Old In High Speed Car Chase

There is a dashcam video from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) that is getting a lot of interest. No, it’s not just because of the rate of speed as they pursued the driver through Ocala at nearly 1 a.m. On August 19 the stop was initially because the car was without a license plate. No, a lot of the reason for interest is that the driver was only 14 years old.

Aldyn Rowe refused to stop and sped away from deputies who then initiated a vehicle pursuit with their lights and sirens activated. This went on for several miles.

As the pursuit continued toward the city of Ocala, the MCSO Aviation Unit arrived in the area and began to observe Rowe’s vehicle from above. The vehicle pursuit was terminated because traffic was becoming more congested, and AIR-1 could safely continue to maintain a visual. The Aviation Unit provided updates to deputies on the ground as Rowe drove across railroad tracks, through grass lots, and through the parking lots of closed businesses in an attempt to elude deputies. Ocala Police Department (OPD) officers also followed Rowe and assisted by deploying stop sticks, which were successful in disabling the right rear tire of Rowe’s vehicle.

Off-duty Deputy Jasmine Kephart joined the pursuit and conducted a P.I.T. maneuver, but Rowe was able to retain control of the vehicle and continued driving. Deputy Kephart conducted a second P.I.T. maneuver, which successfully brought an end to the pursuit. Additional deputies boxed Rowe in and detained him, along with his two young friends who were passengers.

Rowe was arrested and transported to the Juvenile Booking area at the Marion County Jail for processing.

Not A Shopping Pleasure For Pets In Publix

Publix has garnered attention recently for enforcing its "no pets allowed" rule by displaying new signs across Southeastern locations. Publix has emphasized its existing service animal policy, asking customers to adhere to the rule and not bring "non-service animals" into the stores.

The signs clarify that only trained service animals which assist individuals with disabilities, are permitted on the premises. This move has sparked mixed reactions from patrons in various locations leaving many upset. 

Update On The Fatal Crash Last Saturday

Sergeant Ron Malone, the officer who was injured in the head-on collision, was discharged from the Intensive Care Unit. However, he will remain in the hospital for further treatment, and he has a long recovery journey ahead of him.

OPD officers were working a crash scene at the intersection of S Pine Ave. and SW 17th St. An oncoming driver sped through the intersection and struck a parked patrol vehicle and a pedestrian. Sadly, the pedestrian passed away at the hospital due to substantial injuries.

The driver fled the scene, prompting a police pursuit along SE Maricamp Rd. Sergeant Malone was parked in the grass median in front of HCA Urgent Care and was preparing to deploy stop sticks. The hit-and-run driver collided head-on with the officer's patrol car while the officer was inside, and yes, it appeared to be intentional.

Sergeant Malone sustained serious injuries and was rushed to the hospital. The hit-and-run driver was also taken to the hospital where he later died.

This is an absolute tragedy. Our hearts break for a family who is now mourning the loss of a loved one, all because of one person's reckless actions that also endangered the lives of our officers. Please keep our injured officer in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Foodie Alert! New Ocala Restaurant!

A brand new restaurant opens in the Historic North Magnolia Downtown district of Ocala!

The Depot on Magnolia is in Ocala’s historic train depot. The owners are the ones who painted the fascinating murals on the walls, and while it can be a bit overwhelming at first, there is so much to see and enjoy in this perfect little cafe that you will love sitting there and enjoying the experience. They serve Lunch on Tues-Saturday and are open for dinner as well on Friday and Saturday.

My husband and I stopped out and had some wraps and sandwiches, we tried their soups and even splurged on dessert!

This is real food folks! There are no perfect machine-cut carrots in the chicken soup, there is real lobster in the lobster bisque. The key lime pie is mouth puckering and the hummingbird cake melts in your mouth.

If you want real, home-cooked food by someone who loves flavors and textures, this is the place to go. I can’t say enough about the food that we had today, it was just that good!

More Goodwill Back In Ocala

Don’t miss visiting the newly reopened Goodwill Outlet store on W. Silver Springs Blvd.

If you haven’t been to one of these before, A Goodwill Outlet store, often referred to as "the bins" by regular shoppers, is a type of Goodwill thrift store that sells items by the pound instead of by individual pricing.

Instead of marked prices on each individual item, most items at a Goodwill Outlet are sold by weight. So, you might pay a certain amount per pound of clothing. Some larger items might have individual price tags, but the majority of merchandise is priced based on its weight.

Because of the unique pricing system and the way items are displayed (usually in large bins), shopping at a Goodwill Outlet can feel more like a treasure hunt. It requires a bit more digging and sifting through items to find the gems.

Items at a Goodwill Outlet are often those that didn't sell at the regular Goodwill retail stores. After a certain period on the retail floor, unsold items are moved to the Outlet to be liquidated.

Employees bring out new bins of merchandise to replace ones that have been picked through. This rotation means that frequent visits to the same bin might yield new finds.
Due to the deeply discounted prices and the potential to find valuable items, these outlets can sometimes attract resellers and regular shoppers who are looking for a great deal. This can make for a competitive atmosphere, especially when new bins are rolled out.

When you visit, it's a good idea to wear gloves (as you'll be rummaging through bins) and to bring a reusable bag to hold your finds. Being patient and persistent can often lead to the discovery of some great items at a fraction of their retail price.
 

Tuesday Talks

Join the CEP in person or live on Facebook for the next Tuesday Talks on September 5th, 2023

Breakfast at 8:15 am, presentation at 8:30 am. This series is sponsored by Rassmussen University.

Tomorrow you will hear from April Savarese, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Marion County as she speaks on how to craft a strong and effective elevator speech.

Upstairs every 1st Tuesday of the month, in the CEP Boardroom located at 310 SE 3rd Street.

Let Them Eat Cake!

Were you one of the many that were looking for your hurricake from Publix this year and unable to find one?

Due to sensitivity concerns, Publix is no longer baking hurricane-themed cakes for Florida customers.

In a statement, Publix said that while they enjoy “finding ways to delight customers with their favorite Publix items as they prepare for uncertainty,” the cakes will not be made anymore.

Per company policy, the hurricakes can no longer be made due to them making light of these natural disasters.

I don’t know about you, but I moved to Florida and then was hit by massive hurricane after hurricane every weekend for a month! That was my welcome to Florida! Except the one time that I visited my grandma in South Florida for two weeks when I was 12, all by myself. That was in 1992 and it was the same time that Andrew visited Florida as well. I was teased by my uncle that the deadly storm was actually named after me, but someone got the last letter wrong.

With all of that, and having gone through countless storms in the last 20 years, I feel I have earned my right to have a sense of humor about it. While I have never lost a loved one or a home to a storm, and I can’t fathom that loss, I imagine the people who have dealt with difficult storm situations should be able to eat some dark humor cake if they want to.

To cake or not to cake, what do you think? Let us know on our Facebook page for Classic Hits Ocala. Were you one of the many that were on Reddit and Pinterest attempting a version of the Publix hurricake at home? Let us see your homemade hurricakes Ocala!

First Friday Art Walk

Don’t forget that it's back tonight! That's right! The First Friday Art Walk takes place the first Friday of each month, September through May from 6 to 9 p.m. First Friday Art Walk is a free event located within Ocala’s historic downtown. Event festivities include over 30 artist displays, monthly live entertainment, free family art activities provided by local arts organizations, and extended shopping hours.

Participating visual artists and buskers are located along the downtown sidewalks next to participating businesses. There are a variety of art mediums on display and for sale.

The main entertainment is located in the gazebo.

Crystal River Flooded

In case you haven't seen the pictures and videos coming from Cedar Key and Crystal River, they had major flooding when the tide came in. In Crystal River, the sheriff's office began picking people up who were stranded by using an airboat!

Thankfully, a lot of the water receded when the tide rolled out yesterday afternoon and now it's a matter of cleaning up the mess left behind by Idalia.

Things are returning to normal here in Ocala. Schools are back in session today. The Open house night that was postponed due to the hurricane for most of the schools in the area will be held next week instead. Feel free to check with Marion County Schools for the full list of open house dates and times at MarionSchools.net

Great news is that it's back! That's right! The First Friday Art Walk takes place the first Friday of each month, September through May from 6 to 9 p.m. First Friday Art Walk is a free event located within Ocala’s historic downtown. Event festivities include over 30 artist displays, monthly live entertainment, free family art activities provided by local arts organizations, and extended shopping hours.

Participating visual artists and buskers are located along the downtown sidewalks next to participating businesses. There are a variety of art mediums on display and for sale.

The main entertainment is located in the gazebo.

Monday Evening Track Run (Brick City Adventure Park)

If you have been looking to get fit, Marion County Runs will begin meeting weekly on Mondays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Brick City Adventure Park (1211 SE 22nd Rd, Ocala, FL 34471). Need to leave early come early, have to battle your way through traffic, come a little later. Either way, come out to meet up with like-minded people who love running and are there to support you in your training goals. Monday evening runs will be dedicated to conducting speed work to improve your running efficiency, and to assist new runners in achieving their running goals. If you need a "Couch to 5k" training plan or ideas on how to become a faster runner, they are there to help.

New Southern Buffet!

A southern buffet has moved into new digs in Salt Springs, replacing the previous restaurant that operated in the space for a decade. Pop’s Southern Buffet cooks up authentic Southern cuisine in a relaxed setting and offers different specials and dishes across the week. All meals include access to the restaurant’s salad bar. On Tuesdays, the restaurant hosts Italian night. It also hosts wing night on Wednesday, meatloaf, and liver with onion night on Thursday, and a seafood buffet night on Friday and Saturday.

MARION COUNTY TROPICAL STORM IDALIA UPDATE

President Biden spoke with Gov. DeSantis yesterday and assured him that the federal government will fully support Florida in preparation of the tropical storm Idalia and its aftermath.

Declaring an emergency allows Homeland Security and FEMA to coordinate relief and provide needed assistance.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management is now at a level 2 activation and is continually monitoring the development of Tropical Storm Idalia.

Here’s what you need to know:

Sandbag Locations: The following sandbag locations will be open today from 7:00 a.m. until weather conditions prohibit operation. Please note that all sandbag locations are self-service but bags will be provided.

- Belleview Sports Complex, 6501 SE 107th Street, Belleview FL

- Dunnellon Public Works, 11924 Bostick Street, Dunnellon, FL

- Ed Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth Street, Ocala, FL

- Jervey Gantt Park, 2200 SE 36th Avenue, Ocala, FL

- Martel Recycling Center, 296 SW 67th Avenue, Ocala, FL

- Tuscawilla Park (Reilly Arts Center), 800 NE Sanchez Avenue, Ocala, FL

Citizen information Line:

Please call 352-369-7500 with questions related to Tropical Storm Idalia. We are asking that citizens use this line for non-emergency inquiries only.

As always, please call 911 for emergencies.

Shelter Information:

Special Needs Shelter: The special needs shelter is open

- West Port High School, 3733 SW 80th Ave, Ocala, FL 34481

General Population Shelters: The following shelters will open to the public as of 8:00 a.m.
* Pet-friendly shelter locations:

- * Lake Weir High School, 10351 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala, FL

- * Vanguard High School, 7 NW 28th Street, Ocala, FL

No pet shelter locations are:

- Forest High School, 5000 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala, FL

- Horizon Academy, 365 Marion Oaks Drive, Ocala, FL

- North Marion Middle School, 2085 W Highway 329, Citra, FL

Emergency Management officials encourage citizens to bring supplies to the shelters to last for 24-48 hours, such as clothing, bedding, medications, food, water, etc.

If you are bringing your pet(s) to one of the pet-friendly shelters, they must be caged and you will be required to provide recent immunization documentation. Please bring whatever supplies are needed for your pets to be self-sufficient, and please pick up after them as well.

School Closures: Marion County Public Schools has announced that all public schools will be closed today and tomorrow.

Evacuation Recommendation: The Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management recommends evacuation to citizens west of Interstate 75 who live in a mobile home, RV, or other substandard housing. This recommendation does not apply to site-built frame or concrete block homes unless there are existing structural integrity issues or the possibility of flooding as flash flooding is expected along the west coast of Florida, the panhandle, and areas of southern Georgia.

Additional Information: All indicators are currently predicting that residents in the Dunnellon area will have an 82% chance of experiencing tropical storm conditions. Forecasters are expecting Hurricane Idalia to potentially reach Category 2 or 3 by landfall. Marion County Emergency Management officials are urging residents to prepare now for an expected impact this afternoon continuing on through early Wednesday morning.

We strongly recommend staying off the roads if at all possible, to avoid debris and to make way for emergency vehicles or linemen.

Stay tuned for more updates as this storm develops.

Ocala Woman Suing Edos.

A woman is suing an Ocala restaurant for over $50,000 for an explosion at a hibachi grill table that she claims left her “severely burned.” According to an incident report by Ocala Fire Rescue, crews arrived at the scene shortly after 5 p.m. on that day to find that staff had extinguished the fire. While the chef was performing tricks and holding a container with flammable liquid, the container appeared to ignite and explode, causing injuries to the woman and himself.  Thankfully both survived but the woman goes on to say that the business failed to “warn or adequately warn” her of the “danger” of the grill when the business “should have known” that said grill was “unreasonably dangerous. She will be represented by Orlando-based law firm Dan Newlin Injury Attorneys.

Boston Market Employees Are On Strike!

Employees at a Boston Market that has been temporarily closed say they haven’t been paid in weeks and the owner will not return their emails and calls. Before the closure, staff had dealt with food shortages for several weeks. Ingredients to some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes, like its spiralized mac and cheese, were changed as cost-saving measures. Staff at the restaurant say they haven’t been paid for the last two pay cycles, equating to a month. “We are trying to reach out to the owners, but they are not answering. No emails. No calls,” said one of the employees. The employees and manager at the location decided that they would not open the store back up until they were paid.

Gas Leak at Ocala’s China Lee Buffet

Ocala Fire Rescue, Ocala Police Department, and TECO Gas Company were on the scene of a gas leak at China Lee Buffet on Silver Springs Blvd. The leak was reported Sunday, August 20th at 8:45 p.m. and prompted the restaurant’s precautionary evacuation. Ocala Fire Rescue units monitored the scene while TECO secured the gas leak provoked by an accidental puncture of the main line with an excavator.

Ocala’s First Rage Room!

Ocala residents who may be overly stressed, angry, or just looking to smash things will have the opportunity to do so at a new rage room that is opening later this month. When it opens, Smash Lab of Ocala will be the first and only rage room in the city and county. As its name suggests, a rage room, also known as a “smash room,” is a room where people can vent their emotions by destroying objects in a safe setting. As such, Smash Lab of Ocala says it will offer a “thrilling and unique experience” to its customers, with rooms that are constantly stocked and refilled with all types of breakable items which include ceramics, electronics, glass, dishes, toys, dolls, and a multitude of other smash-able items.

Ocala’s Biggest Night Club?

The owners of a popular billiards spot near downtown Ocala that closed in 2021 have opened a new nightclub on the shores that will feature Latin American, Country, Pop, and Hip-Hop music regularly. The nightclub is looking to position itself as a venue for fans of all music genres and will enforce a 21 years or older rule. Time Nightclub officially opened for business last Friday, August 11. Billed as the biggest nightclub in Ocala, the new venue features two floors and three bars, live DJs, and separate VIP sections.

After Years Of Renovation, It's Back!

On Thursday, August 10, the Publix at Churchill Square reopened its doors after a closure that spanned nearly a year and a half. The Publix at Churchill Square joins eight other current locations across the city of Ocala for the popular Florida grocer. The company currently operates over 800 locations in Florida, as well as 1,300 stores across the United States. The store was closed in March 2022 and was renovated from top to bottom. It is now open seven days a week, from 7 am to 10 pm.

Career and College Expo 2023

Middle and high school students and families have the opportunity to attend the Careers and Colleges Expo which takes place this Wednesday, August 23rd, in the Ewers Century Center at the College of Central Florida in Ocala. The event is coordinated by counselors at all Marion County public high schools and the College of Central Florida and provides lots of information to students deciding their futures. Representatives from dozens of public and private colleges, universities, technical institutes, trade schools, and military recruiters will be on hand, sharing valuable information with local students. Expo time is 5 pm until 7 pm, and the event is free and open to the public.

Aldi vs. Winn-Dixie

Aldi has agreed to purchase the parent company of Florida-based grocery store Winn-Dixie and plans to convert some locations into the Aldi format. Southeastern Grocers Inc., the parent company of Winn-Dixie, Fresco y Más, and Harveys Supermarket, will give all of its capital stock to Aldi in an all-cash transaction, according to the press release. That includes all SEG grocery operations which encompasses over 500 stores in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi. For customers, there are no immediate changes planned for any of the stores. Winn-Dixie, Harveys Supermarket, and Fresco y Más stores will continue as normal until the sale is approved and closes, which isn't expected to happen until 2024.

World's Largest Buc-ees?

Gov. Ron DeSantis was in Marion County to announce the state is awarding a $4-million grant to help build a new interchange at Interstate 75 in Ocala. DeSantis said the new interchange — which has been in the works for years, according to the Florida Department of Transportation — will help traffic in the area. But really, the big announcement involved a massive gas station with an equally large cult following. DeSantis said the new Ocala location will be “massive” with 120 pumps, 720 parking spaces, and an 80,000-square-foot store which will now hold the name of being the largest Buc-ees worldwide!

Rabies In Ocala!

A rabies alert has been issued in Marion County after three raccoons tested positive for the disease, the Florida Department of Health announced Friday. Animals with rabies can infect other animals that have not gotten a rabies shot, officials said. That includes domestic animals who aren't vaccinated and other wild animal populations. Marion County residents are urged to be aware that rabies is active near them in the following areas: Silver Springs, Fellowship, and Blitchton.

Mobile Clinics In Marion County

The Marion County Health Department is aiming to make health more accessible for students of the county by offering vaccines needed for students heading back to public school. Currently, the mobile clinic is only offering the shots required for students going into the 7th and 12th grades. The administrator of the Marion County Health Department explains why it’s important to keep your students up to date on their vaccines, “The idea of the clinics was to be able to offer the shots in an area where it’s walkable, it’s close to every community in Marion County. We’re really trying to do some outreach and get out in the communities. It’s important to utilize the clinics because it can protect the community, your schools, and your children,”

Ocala Burger Makes The Top 10 List In Florida!

Ryker Brown is the director of culinary, food, and beverage at The Equestrian Hotel, which is part of the massive World Equestrian Center in Ocala. Brown, who has 26 years in the food service industry, said the chefs and crew at the Yellow Pony, located inside the hotel, take “pride and care” in building their half-pound burger patties are made from a blend of Angus, chuck, and brisket beef and short ribs and are served on a brioche bun from Douce France Bakery. Chef de Cuisine Jenny Polo said the restaurant serves about 2,400 burgers weekly.