Good morning, Ocala.

Marion Oaks Community Center will host a Bulk Clean-Up Event on Saturday, June 28 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 294 Marion Oaks Lane in Ocala—residents can bring old furniture, appliances and other items for removal while hazardous items such as pesticides, asbestos or flammable and explosive materials are not accepted.

Central Florida man Kristopher Baker, who sustained severe injuries in a motorcycle crash on March 9 on Lakeville Road near Clarcona, was reunited Thursday with the Orange County firefighters—who airlifted him to Orlando Regional Medical Center after he crashed without wearing a helmet.

An Ocala man named Jared Allen Crisp allegedly broke into his brother’s home on Monday, June 9 after saying he was 'hearing voices' and looking for a firearm to kill the voices—he led deputies on a foot chase before being arrested and booked on burglary and resisting charges at a $6,000 bond.

Three people were arrested at a pro-democracy rally in downtown Ocala on Saturday when about 1,000 people gathered to support the 'No Kings' protests; Michael Loren (a Proud Boys member) faced charges of battery and illegal weapon possession after allegedly pushing a protester with brass knuckles, Stephen Libardoni was charged with battery for pushing a protester, and Alexandria Krolman was charged with battery for hitting someone with her cardboard sign.

On June 14, Ocala police arrested three people at a downtown 'No Kings' protest—Stephen Libardoni was charged with battery, Michael Loren with battery and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and protester Alexandra Krolman with battery.

Marion County Public Schools will change principals at eight schools for the upcoming school year—effective July 1 pending School Board approval—as announced on June 10.

The district has named new principals at Forest High, Belleview Middle, College Park Elementary, Ross Prairie Elementary and Winding Oaks Elementary while still searching for leaders at East Marion, Harbour View and Lake Weir Middle.

AdventHealth Ocala opened its new 57,000-square-foot medical office building at 1219 S Pine Avenue near downtown — the facility now offers services for cardiovascular, neuroscience, orthopedics, and women’s health.

City and county officials cut the ribbon on June 12, just over a year after the project began in April 2024.

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.

New Bethel Community Church Back To School Bash & Community Picnic

2-6 p.m. — Del Webb Spruce Creek Golf & Country Club — Free entry — Enjoy food, music, and a waterslide at this fun community event with free backpacks while supplies last.