Good morning, Ocala.

North Central Florida will host many Memorial Day events today with activities planned for the community.

Local officials warned residents about scam collection texts and said deputies are investigating recent incidents — including a fatal shooting in a Newberry neighborhood, a crash in Putnam County, and shots fired at a Gainesville restaurant.

An Ocala resident wrote a letter urging a local Costco to open by pointing out that the city’s growing population and crowded Sam’s stores can support another large retailer.

The resident also noted that the drive from Ocala to The Villages is almost the same as to Clermont + many locals feel the same.

On Saturday evening, shortly before 7 p.m., Ocala police responded to a call at the Amoco gas station at 3821 SW College Road and found an unresponsive man who was pronounced dead—there were no signs of trauma—and police reported that the investigation is ongoing.

Two Marion County parents were jailed on May 22 for not keeping their children in class—one parent received a six-month sentence after a student missed 120 days and the other got a 90-day sentence after a student missed 63 days; both are set to return to court on Friday.

Lightning sparked four wildfires in Ocala National Forest on Saturday—Eagle, Hughes, Bullbat, and Bilderback Fires.

Firefighters built dozer lines and dropped water from helicopters as they contained the flames amid dry conditions and prepared for Sunday thunderstorms.

Federal and university forecasters have predicted an above average hurricane season with NOAA forecasting 13—19 named storms, 6—10 hurricanes, and 3—5 major hurricanes and urging residents to secure emergency supplies and determine their evacuation zones.

The season will run from June 1 through November and residents in Ocala are advised to review their preparedness plans today.

Marion County leaders delivered their state of the county address today, outlining county plans and initiatives + providing details on upcoming projects.

The address explained what residents can expect as the county moves forward.

Officials in several North Central Florida counties warned residents about scam collection calls — advising caution when responding to unexpected texts.

Freshman Azael Gonzalez and senior Dhru Patel head Marion County's all-county boys tennis team selection after strong performances in MAC events—other nominees include players from Forest, Belleview and Vanguard.

The nominees will be honored at the MESPYs on May 27.

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.

Smokin' and Forever Foreigner Tribute Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Tickets vary — Rock out with iconic hits from the bands Boston and Foreigner performed by top-tier tribute bands.

On-Site Tour of AdviniaCare at Paddock Ridge

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — AdviniaCare at Paddock Ridge — Free entry — Explore the best of senior living with engaging activities and quality dining options.

Florida-Friendly Foodscaping Garden Tour Program

9:30 a.m. — 5151 SE 58th Ave, Ocala, FL — Free entry — Explore an edible ornamental landscape with hands-on experiences and take home plant cuttings.