Daily
Ocala
Wednesday, June 25th, 2025
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Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 25th of June.
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Highly trained first responders and an iPhone crash detection 911 call rescued an injured crash victim trapped by fence boards in a pickup truck during a rollover crash in Reddick on June 23 — Marion County Fire Rescue officials said the cellphone technology improved emergency response. Ocala Gazette
- ➤ A rock quarry on North Highway 441 became the scene of a fatal drowning on June 20 when Reshon Reese, a 16-year-old 11th grader from North Marion High School drowned—marking the third fatal drowning at this location. Ocala Gazette
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Ocala police are asking the public for help to identify a suspect who stole over $2,100 from Home Depot on June 4 — a social media post shared Tuesday morning showed his vehicle. WCJB
- ➤ Ocala police arrested Dennis Grundy, 40, the former executive director of nonprofit Open Arms Village for allegedly stealing $264,000 since 2023 by altering financial documents and misusing funds with unauthorized checks, fake credit cards + PayPal transactions. WCJB
- ➤ A Marion County deputy was grazed near his right eye when detainee Rheanna Harden retrieved a concealed handgun during a traffic stop and fired at him, causing the patrol vehicle to crash into a utility pole—both were taken to a local hospital and later released, and Harden now faces additional charges as the incident is investigated. Ocala-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Caroline Schapansky—crowned Miss Ocala earlier this year—is among 38 women competing for Miss Florida in the 89th annual pageant held at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland from today until June 28. She will yodel 'I Want to Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart'—her talent performance—and supports Through the Looking Glass, a service for families with disabilities or medical issues. Ocala-News
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Florida is no longer the hotspot it once was as more residents leave than move in, with the latest PODS report showing nearly half the net migration seen in previous peak years. Ocala remains popular while Jacksonville dropped in ranking—rising costs, increased congestion, and severe weather are cited as key factors in this trend. Ocala StarBanner
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Today at 5:30 p.m., the Marion County School Board will meet to discuss proposed budget cuts—driven by a $64 million shortfall—that may reduce paraprofessional staff, E-SOL classes, and shift class periods from seven to six at some schools. The cuts could raise class sizes by two students and lead to layoffs or hiring freezes district-wide. WCJB
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Ocala’s general election on Sept. 16 will decide the mayor's seat and three city council positions in a nonpartisan race. Candidates will file and launch campaigns while voters weigh issues — such as population growth and cost of living — to choose the city’s future leadership. Ocala Gazette
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Caitlyn Delmastro, who claims she was fired from a local hospital due to chronic migraines with aura causing work absences, will be deposed on August 5 as part of her lawsuit alleging discrimination and retaliation—her lawsuit, filed in the Fifth Judicial Circuit Court, also names her former director, who is set for deposition on August 26. Ocala-News
SHOP NEWS
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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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USA Swimming Futures Championship - Ocala
All day — Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training Center — Entry deadline July 22nd — A showcase of swimming talent with top teams and athletes competing across various events.
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Summer Job Fair 2025
5-7 p.m. — Howard Academy Community Center — Free entry — Explore job opportunities across various industries at this local job fair.
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Reading with the Rangers & Friends
10:00 AM – 11:59 PM — Ocala Citizens' Circle — Bring your own snacks and blankets — Enjoy a relaxing day of reading with friends in the park.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
We are all born ignorant, but one must work hard to remain stupid.
~ Benjamin Franklin
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