Good morning, Ocala.

Heather Evans and her children, 16-year-old Logan and 5-month-old Eli, settled into their new Habitat for Humanity home in Summerfield one month ago through United Way’s Strong Families program and now enjoy a promising new start on their journey to independence.

Ocala is set to celebrate Fourth of July with a local music event at Tuscawilla Park on July 4 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.—Emma Forgette will open and Bryce Mauldin will headline the show before a 15-minute fireworks display begins at 9:30 p.m. City officials say the event will also offer family-friendly activities, local food trucks, and a free shuttle service from key locations throughout the city.

In March 2020, Brian Ballard left a Mid-Florida Regional Manufacturers Association tour at a local plant and recalled how everything changed in one hour — a moment that set the stage for 'Mr. Ma' to guide Marion manufacturers through tough times.

Yummy House closed its longtime location on SR 200 at 3500 SW College Road on June 16 — it will reopen in a new establishment at 2510 SW 27th Avenue, Suite 102 and 103 later in November less than two miles away.

Ocala Police Department is asking for help after a 15-year-old boy, Dante Sparrowhawk, reported missing Monday, June 16, was last seen walking eastbound on SR 200 near the I-75 intersection wearing a black hoodie and blue jeans — anyone with information should call 352-369-7000.

State officials approved conservation easements protecting over 76,000 acres in the Ocala-to-Osceola Wildlife Corridor on June 10, closing the final gap in the 100-mile network linking Ocala and Osceola National Forests; the measures include a 61,389-acre tract in Baker and Union counties and a 14,743-acre tract in Baker and Bradford counties +steps that help prevent habitat fragmentation and support water quality and local economies+.

Florida does not recognize Juneteenth as an official state holiday and offers no paid time off, even though it is observed as a special day — instead, the state celebrates Emancipation Day on May 20 to mark the end of slavery within its borders.

SunTran is offering free rides on all its operating routes in Ocala this week as part of the national Dump The Pump campaign—aimed at cutting emissions and reducing reliance on personal vehicles.

On Thursday, June 19, 2025, federal offices, banks, and post offices will be closed for Juneteenth while Florida state offices and the DMV remain open—FedEx and UPS will still deliver mail.

Some local governments may choose to close offices for the day—residents should check with local stores to confirm their hours.

Daisy Diaz, a 20-year U.S. Navy veteran, is now the director of the Marion County Veterans Services Office.

She has served veterans since 2006 and replaces former director Jeffrey Askew.

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.

Phil Collins Tribute Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — $28 to $57, VIP Box $270 — Experience the magic of Phil Collins through the powerful voice of Rick Snider.