Good morning, Ocala.

Residents are advised to build a hurricane supplies kit on a budget by using existing water containers + sale-priced food, batteries, and flashlights as officials stress the essentials.

Hurricane season starts Jun. 1 and early preparedness may ease disruptions when storms approach.

FedEx’s freight division acquired a nearly 10-acre facility at 1702 SW 42nd Court in southwest Ocala on Monday, May 18, for over $6 million from Old Dominion Freight Line Inc; the 17,550 sqft site features a cross-dock platform and office area to support efficient freight operations near I-75.

Starting June 3 to July 24, the Marion Theatre hosts the Summer Kids Film Series at 50 S.

Magnolia Ave with movies on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at multiple times. Tickets are $5 and children under 12 receive a free snack pack—guests can donate books for the Early Learning Coalition.

The Community Music Conservatory at Reilly Arts Center has announced two summer music camps.

The Meet the Instruments camp for grades 3-5 runs June 15-19 (9 a.m. to noon) while the Jazz Intensive for grades 9-12 takes place July 6-10 (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.), ending with a concert.

UF/IFAS experts say lovebugs create seasonal swarms that may leave residue on cars but are harmless to people & pets.

The insects appear a few weeks in spring and late summer along highways with drivers advised to wash windshields promptly to avoid buildup.

A Social Security Trustees report warns benefits may drop by about 28% in 2033 if changes aren’t made, potentially reducing incomes for many Ocala retirees.

Experts recommend planning when to start collecting benefits — a move that could help protect monthly income.

The Navy conducted helicopter and ground training exercises Tuesday and is operating them today from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Pinecastle Range Complex in Ocala National Forest — federal officials have activated an expanded public safety perimeter to restrict access.

Marion County restaurant inspections from May 11–17 revealed that Salt Springs Pizza was temporarily closed after 16 violations (including time/temperature issues), while follow-up checks were required for Ocala eateries like Sammy’s Italian Restaurant and The Lodge Pub to meet health standards.

AdventHealth Ocala now offers advanced neonatal care that helps families stay together with an inhaled nitric oxide program launched in July 2025 & a PICC program that lets newborns receive extended treatment locally.

The hospital now cares for babies born as early as 30 weeks.

Hear Us Roar III Fundraiser

7 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre — VIP tickets $50 — A vibrant fundraiser supporting Arts in Health and The Arc Marion in Ocala.

Ocala Toddler Time Multi-Sport Program

9:00-11:00 a.m. — McCall Ballfield — $90 — Engage toddlers in a fun, multi-sport program designed for early development.

Ocala Toddler Soccer Summer Camp

9 a.m. - 10:50 a.m. — McCall Ballfield — $135 — Fun-filled toddler soccer camp featuring bubbles, ice cream, and exciting activities.

Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy: Chapter Three

6-7:30 p.m. — Marion Theatre — $55 per person — Experience an immersive theatrical journey through Poe's macabre tales with original music by Danny Elfman and themed cocktails.