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Ocala has had a brush with stardom this week, as two internationally recognized celebrities made appearances around town. Locals caught sight of Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson, the Icelandic powerhouse known for portraying "The Mountain" on Game of Thrones, working out at Gold’s Gym ahead of his appearance as a special guest at the nearby comic convention.

Björnsson, celebrated for his world-record-breaking feats in strength competitions, drew plenty of attention with his larger-than-life presence. Meanwhile, Duane “Dog” Chapman, the famed bounty hunter from reality television, also turned heads, stopping to greet fans inside a local business during his travels through Central Florida.

Their visits created a buzz in the community, adding extra excitement for locals enjoying an unexpected celebrity encounter.

Fine Arts For Ocala has opened submissions for the 2026 Student and Emerging Artist Competition, centered on the theme “Foundation.” The event invites artists from Marion County with six years or less of professional experience to participate, with categories for high school students and emerging creators with varying levels of experience.

Each entrant can submit one recent original artwork, accompanied by an artist statement, a completed agreement, and a high-resolution image. All materials must be submitted by the evening of November 13. Juried selection will determine winners in each division, as well as an overall Best of Show honoree.

The exhibition will be hosted at Ocala City Hall from December 3, 2026, through March 9, 2027. Prizes include a $1,000 cash award, scholarships for students, art store gift certificates, and museum memberships. Winners will be celebrated at a public reception in January.

Ocala’s own Lieutenant Madison Murvin, a Vanguard High School alumna, is making her mark as a pilot with the U.S. Navy’s groundbreaking unmanned patrol and reconnaissance squadron. Stationed at Naval Station Mayport, she’s part of a team flying the MQ-4C Triton—an advanced drone used for global intelligence and surveillance missions.

After earning a degree in international affairs and modern language from Georgia Tech, Murvin took inspiration from her pilot great-grandfather to pursue a Navy career. She’s taken on leadership roles, even commanding a significant detachment overseas, all while remaining rooted in her Marion County upbringing and the teamwork values shaped at Vanguard.

Murvin says the challenges and camaraderie of Navy service have been immense honors, helping her grow as a leader and proudly represent her hometown. She’s joined at Mayport by fellow Vanguard grad Petty Officer Christian Mays, highlighting Ocala’s ongoing contributions to the nation’s armed forces.

Ocala is getting a sweet new addition as a Dairy Queen Grill & Chill prepares to welcome customers beginning Monday. Positioned just off Interstate 75 on NW Blitchton Road, this freshly built 2,200-square-foot spot boasts a drive-thru, an outdoor patio, and a striking 14-foot red spoon sculpture at its entrance.

Patrons can expect favorite menu staples such as burgers, chicken baskets, sundaes, and of course, signature Blizzards. The restaurant will be open every day, closing at 10:30 p.m. during the week and staying open until midnight Fridays through Sundays.

This site, unused for nearly three decades after a fire in 1995, now replaces a former Dairy Queen on W. Highway 326 and joins another location on East Silver Springs Boulevard.