Daily
Ocala
Thursday, May 21st, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ County officials will cut the ribbon on the new animal shelter (a $22 million, state-of-the-art facility) in west Ocala today at 1:30 p.m. The shelter, located at 6405 W. Highway 40, replaces the old facility by doubling space and expanding veterinary care near the airport. Ocala-News
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ FPL's owner NextEra Energy announced a plan on May 20 to merge with Dominion Energy. The deal awaits regulator approval and will not change electric rates for local customers since a rate agreement locks prices until 2029. Ocala StarBanner
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ After an electrical fire damaged the property last Saturday, a break-in at St. Paul A.M.E. Church left racist graffiti on its walls Tuesday night; church leaders said security cameras are now installed and police are investigating the hateful act. ClickOrlando
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Alumni from Stephen Foster Elementary gathered for a final visit today, invited to reconnect with former classmates and staff at the school in Ocala — a chance to share cherished memories. WCJB
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Homeowners are urged to compare hurricane shutter options as the 2026 season nears, with choices ranging from cost-efficient storm panels (15-minute setup per window) to roll-down systems offering enhanced protection. The guide details pros, cons and costs to help residents safeguard their homes before storms hit. Ocala StarBanner
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Father's Day Celebration with Live Orchestra
8:00 p.m. — Fonda Dulce Jesus Mio Ocala — Ticketed event — Celebrate Father's Day with live Latin music from The Koko Band and DJ Jota.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Ocala
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