Good morning, Ocala.

Watermelon season is almost over at Cannon Farm in Dunnellon — visitors can enjoy watermelons, cantaloupes, farm animals, fresh produce, and rows of sunflowers.

The Cannon family, which has farmed the land since 1909, urges the community to visit before the season ends.

Firefighters in Chiefland contained a wildfire that burned over 50 acres while Dunnellon's Cannon Farm ended its watermelon season and troopers reported one death with three injuries in a crash near Keystone Heights.

The Gainesville police awarded 18 service awards and an Ocala woman — with family gathered — will celebrate her 100th birthday next weekend with a royal-themed party at CF.

Ocala is hosting a July 4th fireworks celebration at Tuscawilla Park from 6-10 p.m. with fireworks beginning at 9:30 p.m. free shuttle service runs from several locations + local partners organized the event while chairs and blankets are encouraged and tents, alcohol, and personal drones are prohibited.

Lake Lillian Park in Belleview will soon get lighting upgrades—details of the project are shared in the Weekly Buzz to enhance park safety.

A wildfire in the Ocala National Forest began on May 27 when a lightning strike burned about 849 acres.

Forest officials said the fire remains within control lines—motorists along State Road 19 may still see smoke as crews mop up remaining heat until rain falls.

Ocala officials plan to update city codes for short term rentals and congregate living facilities to address public concerns and meet new state law requirements such as Senate Bill 954.

The Ocala Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, June 10 at 4 p.m. at Ocala City Hall—proposed changes include a new requirement for business tax receipts on short term rental properties.

Today the Ocala Planning and Zoning Commission will review proposals to add 417 new units—single-family dwellings, townhomes, and multi-family buildings—to a 42-unit apartment complex on a 39.33-acre site in southwest Ocala.

The owner, Anna Jo Partnership—registered to Deny and Dessiree Troncoso—plans a total of 459 units with amenities like a clubhouse and pool that may affect nearby school capacities.

The Star Banner released the girls high school all-county teams for the 2024-25 season and is now asking readers to vote for the overall athlete of the year.

Voting will continue over the next week with winners announced June 16—readers are invited to cast their votes.

Former Trinity Catholic lineman G’nivre Carr joined the Florida Gators after his time at IMG, saying his decision was driven by family ties and the recent loss of his father — he is now training with a former state champion and will sign his letter on Dec.

6 near Lillian Bryant Park.

The Star Banner published its all-county list for Boys Athlete of the Year and now invites Ocala readers to vote for their favorite—winners span weightlifting, baseball, tennis, track, volleyball, lacrosse, football, cross country, golf, basketball, soccer, wrestling and swim.

Votes will decide the final winner, who will be announced on June 16.

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.

Jason Ricci Live Performance

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Check the venue for ticket prices — Experience the award-winning harmonica virtuoso Jason Ricci in concert, promising an unforgettable night of contemporary blues.