Good morning, Ocala.

On April 30, 2025, Revealing Truth Ministries Outreach Christian Center partnered with Better Together to host its inaugural Second Chance Job Fair in Ocala, welcoming 129 job seekers from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The fair—part of the Nationwide Day of Second Chances—aimed to offer job seekers a fresh start.

With hurricane season predicted to be above average, local officials advise residents in Ocala and Marion County to build a hurricane supplies kit using budget items, discounts, bottled water alternatives, and help from local food assistance programs — residents are encouraged to use coupons and bulk buying to save money — as emergency preparations are recommended before storms hit. Daily tropical weather coverage will begin today so residents can stay updated on approaching storms.

The Ocala Shrine Club will host a gun show on Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 4301 SE Maricamp Road where attendees can buy, trade, and view guns and other items such as ammunition, body armor, and knives.

Admission is $10 (children 14 and under are free).

Patricia (Pat) Gabriel was honored on May 6 by the Marion County Board of County Commissioners and the Parks & Recreation Department for 19 years of volunteer service on the Advisory Council, where she served in leadership roles including chair.

A new ALDI store will open on June 4 at 184 Marion Oaks Boulevard in south Ocala — converted from a former Winn-Dixie grocery store to serve local shoppers.

Belleview has launched a grant program called Beautify Belleview to give local business owners up to $2,500 for improvements such as landscaping, painting, and accessible parking.

Donna Damato from All About Art plans to apply after learning the program targets critical storefront upgrades—city officials will review each application to meet the criteria.

On May 14, 2024, a bus carrying 53 passengers flipped on State Road 40 near Dunnellon after a truck sideswiped it, causing eight fatalities and prompting 20 rescues—Bryan MacLean Howard now faces eight DUI manslaughter counts.

A 35-year-old driver named Patrick Julius Knight, Jr. crashed his vehicle near a guard shack at the On Top of the World community on May 12 and allegedly swung a knife at a man before fleeing, and deputies arrested him and released him on a $5,000 bond (he is charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon) (court date is pending).

Broad Stripes Golf and Social Club in south Marion County has been closed since May 8 after inspectors reported 27 violations including more than 20 roaches and improperly stored foods — additional checks on May 10 and May 12 found more issues, keeping the restaurant shut.

Axe Throwing & Tiny Golf Event

11 AM – 4 PM — Homestead Park — Axe Throwing $15 for 30 min | Tiny Golf $5 per round — Enjoy fun-filled outdoor activities with friends and family at Homestead Park.

Open House in Ocala

12-3 p.m. — 8205 SW 78th Terrace Rd — Free entry — Discover a charming home in a vibrant 55+ community with fantastic amenities.

Geek Fest May Edition

12:00 – 11:59 PM — Ocala Downtown Market — Free entry — Dive into a wonderland of over 60 vendors specializing in video games, vintage toys, comic books, and more.

Twilight Trail Trot

11:10 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. — Santos Trailhead — Registration fees apply — Enjoy a thrilling twilight trail running event with local community support.

3rd Annual Children's Miracle Network 5K Walk/Run

8:00-9:30 a.m. — Baseline Road Trailhead — Entry fee applicable — Participate in a fundraising event supporting children in need through UF Health.

All About Joel - Billy Joel Tribute

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Ticket costs vary — Relive the classic hits of Billy Joel through an energetic tribute performance.

Ocala Toddler Time Multi-Sport Program

9-10:50 a.m. — McCall Ballfield — $85 — A fun summer multisport program for toddlers aged 18 months to 5 years.