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"Raising Cane's Grand Opening Controversy, $1 Million Lottery Winner, and More in This Week's Ocala Sizzle Podcast!"
"Raising Cane's Grand Opening Controversy, $1 Million Lottery Winner, and More in This Week's Ocala Sizzle Podcast!"
"Raising Cane's Grand Opening Controversy, $1 Million Lottery Winner, and More in This Week's Ocala Sizzle Podcast!"
🔥 Grand opening controversy, fair fun, and a lucky lottery win - all in this week's Ocala Sizzle Podcast Show Notes! 🎉 #dontmissout
Wendell Carr
Mar 6, 2026
Stories, Spots & Sizzle from the Heart of Ocala |
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When was the last time you really looked at the history around you? This week on The Ocala Sizzle, we’re stepping back in time and exploring the landmarks that shaped Ocala and The Villages — from Silver Springs and Fort King to the Appleton Museum and our Historic Downtown Square. These aren’t dusty history lessons — they’re living, breathing places you can visit this week. If you love this community, this episode will make you appreciate it even more. |
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Extra Tidbits from Wendell |
Appleton Museum of Art (Ocala)What to Expect: World-class art in a stunning setting. Rotating exhibitions, cultural programs, and architecture that feels far bigger than a city our size. |
Silver Springs State Park (Silver Springs)What to Expect: Crystal-clear springs, glass-bottom boats, walking trails, and one of Florida’s most historic natural attractions. |
Ocala Historic District / Downtown Square (Ocala)What to Expect: Brick-lined streets, restored buildings from the late 1800s, local restaurants, boutiques, and year-round community events. |
Fort King National Historic Landmark (Ocala)What to Expect: Reconstructed fort, interpretive trails, reenactments, and an important chapter of Florida’s Seminole War history. |
Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing (Ocala)What to Expect: Historic race cars, motorsports innovation, and a fascinating look at American racing culture led by legend “Big Daddy” Don Garlits. |
Spanish Springs Town Square – The VillagesWhat to Expect: A nostalgic-style town square with nightly entertainment, dining, and one of the most unique community stories in Florida. |
Don’t Miss a Week of the Sizzle |
Know someone who loves local history and hidden gems? Forward this newsletter. |
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Raising Cane's recently opened in Ocala, drawing in large crowds for the grand opening. The event featured giveaways, with some lucky customers receiving free chicken for a year. However, the fast food chain faced a protest from PETA due to their treatment of animals. Despite the controversy, the restaurant's opening was a success, with many excited customers lining up to try the popular chicken tenders. The photos from the event captured the excitement and anticipation of those in attendance. Overall, the grand opening of Raising Cane's in Ocala was a lively and eventful occasion. Read More... |
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The Sumter County Fair is back this year from March 6-15, featuring rides, food, and fun for the whole community to enjoy. In addition to the entertainment, the fair will also highlight various community service organizations and showcase their valuable work. This event provides a great opportunity for families and friends to come together, have a good time, and support local charities. Make sure to mark your calendars and come out to the Sumter County Fair for a memorable experience filled with laughter, excitement, and giving back to the community. Read More... |
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An Ocala woman recently won $1 million from a scratch-off ticket, making her lottery winner number 24 to claim a $1 million prize. Florida Lottery identified the winner as a 56-year-old woman who purchased the winning ticket at a local gas station. The woman chose to receive her winnings as a lump-sum payment of $880,000. She plans to use the money to pay off her mortgage and invest in her future. The Florida Lottery reminds players to play responsibly and to always sign the back of their tickets. Read More... |
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6th - National Oreo Cookie Day 7th - National Cereal Day 8th - International Women’s Day 9th - National Get Over It Day 10th - Mario Day 11th - National Worship of Tools Day 12th - National Girl Scout Day |
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THIS WEEK IN HISTORY – Fort King & The Second Seminole War
In the 1830s, Fort King became one of the most significant military outposts during the Second Seminole War. The fort served as a strategic location during one of the longest and most complex conflicts between the United States and the Seminole people.
Today, the reconstructed Fort King stands as a reminder of that pivotal chapter in Florida’s past. Visiting the site offers insight into early frontier life and the layered history that helped shape Ocala. |
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🎤 Stayin’ Alive – Bee Gees Tribute Show |
🌿 Florida SpringsFest |
🎵 Experience Motown Magic – Tribute to Marvin Gaye |
🏇 Ocala Winter Celebration – Equestrian Competition |
🎶 Changes in Latitudes – Jimmy Buffett Tribute |
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Marion County Historical Society
The Marion County Historical Society works to preserve and share the stories that built our community. Through museum exhibits, educational programs, and archival preservation, they keep Ocala’s rich past accessible for future generations.
Their efforts ensure that the landmarks we explored in this week’s episode aren’t forgotten — but understood and appreciated. To learn more or support their mission, visit: |
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