Good morning, Ocala.

Community members gathered at the Marion County Public Library Headquarters last week to dedicate the Childhood Cancer Awareness Memorial honoring children and families affected by cancer — unveiled by the Peltz family in tribute to Kaitlin Peltz — as a symbol of courage, faith, love and hope for a cure.

Purrs and Pages Bookstore and Cat Lounge in Silver Springs opened today, offering a cozy spot for locals to read and relax with adoptable cats (13 available through House Meow Rescue).

The new business aims to help connect potential adopters with rescued cats in a welcoming setting.

Marion County Public Schools announced seven proposed principal changes for the 2026-27 school year (pending board approval), affecting schools like Belleview Elementary, Dunnellon Elementary, and Dunnellon High.

Three of the appointees are first-time principals.

Marion County Superintendent Danielle Brewer announced principal changes at nine schools for the new school year — the changes affect 7000 students and cut seven assistant principal positions — pending school board approval, five new principals, four of them first timers, will lead their schools.

In southwest Ocala, plans for the 493-home Mockingbird Ridge subdivision spanning nearly 170 acres will be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission as the project moves into three phases — led by Boyd Development LLC after final Heathbrook approval.

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.

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.

WEC Premier FC Summer Soccer Camps for Ages 9-14

9 a.m.-2 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Cost varies — Engage in immersive soccer training to enhance skills and tactical awareness in a supportive environment.

Elvis The Summer Festival 2026

June 25-27 — Circle Square Cultural Center — $15-$400 — Celebrate Elvis through the greatest hits and tribute performances by top artists.

South Florida Soul Rodeo Kick-Off Field Party

5-10 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion Auditorium — Family-friendly event — Experience thrilling rodeo action and soulful music in the heart of Ocala.

Ravenfest 2026

5-9 p.m. — Mutiny Bar Ocala — Donation-based entry — Celebrate mental health awareness and enjoy live music for a good cause.

Fourth in the Park

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Tuscawilla Park — Free entry — Celebrate July 4 with family-friendly activities including food trucks, live music, and splash pad fun.