Good morning, Ocala.

A local Ocala mom and businesswoman—owner of Nirvana Medical Spa—earned two crowns at a pageant in Dubai on June 20 after months of work with coaches and designers.

She will use the honors to promote wellness and support her community.

Ocala Main Street is updating the old American Legion building in Tuscawilla Park into a community hub — the venue will house a museum, corner store and deck with daily wellness programs.

VIPs will join a soft opening on July 4 during the Patriotic Skies celebration while the public can visit on July 5.

Larry and Darnitha Johnson received a certificate of appreciation and a ceremonial key to the city on June 17 from Mayor Marciano for their help in the community — a clear sign of their strong local service.

Taverna Berrocal reopened today on the top floor of the Holiday Inn and Suites at 3600 SW 38th Avenue, serving Peruvian fusion cuisine in a larger space than its former east side location.

The restaurant replaces Sky Fine Dining, which closed during the pandemic, and now offers a summer menu with favorites like ceviche, fried snapper, and seafood paella — dishes that mix Peruvian, Italian, and French nouvelle flavors.

Last week, on June 17 and 18, 502 horses were sold at the Ocala Breeders’ Sales event, raising over $25.6 million and breaking records when a chestnut filly sold for $975,000—boosting the average sale price to a new high.

During the first half of 2025, new restaurants opened in Ocala, including Cajun Jimmy’s Seafood Seller–Cafe, Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, Chicken Guy! at Walmart, MOOYAH, Taverna Berrocal, Bella Cosa Italian Ristorante, CAVA, and Culver's while Yummy House relocated.

Additional projects underway feature a new equestrian event space with dining – a 37000 sq ft pickleball center, a new residential neighborhood, and plans for a second city parking garage with a downtown hotel set to begin construction soon.

On June 18, a Marion County judge sentenced 34-year-old Augusta Williams to 15 years in jail for raping a 15-year-old girl at Regal Hollywood 16 on January 15, 2023—Williams led her behind the curtains despite her pleas—and he remains in custody pending his appeal hearing set for August 21.

The Ocala Recreation and Parks Department and Fort King National Historic Landmark in partnership with local groups are opening the 'Fort King’s Hidden Bottles' exhibit today as part of the Summer Night Lecture Series — the exhibit shows bottles found during past digs — demonstrating our town’s rich history.

Yesterday, the Florida Forest Service conducted a controlled burn on 125 acres of Indian Lake State Forest in Marion County to clear vegetation and improve wildlife habitat + lower wildfire risks.

Motorists were advised to drive carefully as light smoke did not affect major roads.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Candlelight Tribute to Coldplay & Imagine Dragons

4:00–4:59 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Tickets required — Experience the magic of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons in a candlelit setting performed by the Listeso String Quartet.