Thursday, June 19th, 2025

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Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of June.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ On June 14, 113 golfers played at Ocala Golf Club for the 11th annual Helping Hands Golf Tournament, which raised a record $201,056 to support transitional housing and care for local women and children facing homelessness. The funds will help the nonprofit boost housing, vehicle assistance + childcare for its residents. Ocala Gazette
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ At-risk Ocala students who once struggled in traditional schools will receive diplomas at a special ceremony—marking their academic progress and personal growth. WCJB
- ➤ A summer reading program in Ocala uses a horse in the classroom to encourage young readers and was featured on Horse Capital TV on June 18th—highlighting an innovative way to make learning fun. The program is part of the Ocala Horse Alliance Black Stallion Reading Program. WCJB
- ➤ Marion County Public Schools announced changes to principals that will take effect on July 1 — pending School Board approval — as the district works to cover a $64 million budget shortfall. East Marion Elementary will have Dr. John Pope as principal, Harbour View Elementary will appoint Jennifer Pollard, and Lake Weir Middle will welcome Dr. Brian Green while new schools open with inaugural principals in August. WCJB
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Thomas Roberts from Eustis filed a lawsuit against Ocala on May 23 for injuries he suffered in a December 5 accident when a city employee allegedly hit his vehicle—his attorneys say his serious injuries will continue to impact him and they seek more than $50,000 in damages. Ocala-News
- ➤ Horse Farms Forever opposes a request by Golden Ocala to rezone 236 acres in northwest Ocala for a sports and entertainment complex, arguing it breaks earlier agreements to keep the area for horse farms and the Farmland Preservation Area. County officials will review the application on June 30 — the group plans to attend the meeting to express its concerns. Ocala-News
- ➤ At a City Council meeting on June 17th, an Ocala resident who relies on SunTran said the transit system has serious problems and accused officials of treating passengers differently based on their color. She cited a case in which a woman was forced to walk for hours after being removed from the bus for having too many bags + she urged the council to take action. Ocala-News
SHOP NEWS
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Ocala Christmas in July Festival
10 AM – 3 PM — World Equestrian Center — $5 — Experience a winter wonderland of holiday shopping with handcrafted gifts and a special appearance from Santa.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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