Good morning, Ocala.

An Ocala resident’s letter questioned if the city will offer call-in recycling-pickup options — a concern for a 90-year-old neighbor — as new drop-off changes impact seniors lacking transportation or tech skills.

Annie, a rescued thoroughbred foal, is recovering after being part of one of Citrus County’s largest animal seizure cases — now receiving round-the-clock care from a Marion County woman who adopted her.

An Ocala family is set to reunite with its 13-year-old Shih Tzu Apollo (also known as Yuri) as Nick Josey flies to New York today to bring him home after the pet was found months ago; the reunion will include introducing Apollo to his new baby brother.

Christopher Trail from Ocklawaha won a $10 million lottery prize, having bought his winning ticket at a Leesburg Circle K on March 11 and claimed it on March 18.

The next Powerball drawing is at 10:59 p.m. on June 27 with an estimated jackpot of $348 million.

Governor DeSantis approved a new special district in Marion County today that creates the Uplands stewardship district to install + operate and maintain community infrastructure, a move intended to support local projects.

Marion County officials will hold a candidate forum at Reilly Arts Center ahead of August primaries - local voters can expect to hear candidates outline their plans.

A Vibrio vulnificus infection was confirmed in Marion County, part of 9 cases recorded statewide, nearly twice last year.

Health officials advise extra caution during peak beach season for individuals with high-risk conditions (liver disease, diabetes) to avoid raw seafood and protect open wounds.

Florida is facing extreme heat with the index rising to the mid-100s this weekend; pet owners in Ocala are urged to watch for signs of heatstroke like rapid breathing and to cool pets with water and gear while avoiding shaving, since their fur helps protect against sunburn.

Ocala native DJ Bennett and teammate Ava Esposito earned a wild card in the U.S. Open women’s doubles main draw after winning the USTA American Collegiate Wildcard Playoff; the Auburn pair will compete at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens from Sept.

3-11 + they become the first Auburn players to appear in a Grand Slam event.

Ravenfest 2026

5-9 p.m. — Mutiny Bar Ocala — Donation-based entry — Celebrate mental health awareness and enjoy live music for a good cause.

Fourth in the Park

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Tuscawilla Park — Free entry — Celebrate July 4 with family-friendly activities including food trucks, live music, and splash pad fun.

Jake Hoot Live Concert

7:30 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience the heartfelt storytelling of country music star Jake Hoot, winner of The Voice.

Live Music with Jeff Jarrett at The Riding Academy Pool

12-4 p.m. — The Riding Academy Hotel Pool — Free entry — Experience award-winning live music with an eclectic mix from Jeff Jarrett by the poolside.

Ocala Speed Dating for Singles Ages 45-62

4-6 p.m. — Midtown Station — Ticket required — Meet potential matches through a fun and efficient speed dating experience.

WSET Level 1 in Wines

9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — $429 — Dive into a day of wine discovery, tasting, and education with expert instructors.

Not Fade Away Concert

7-9 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening of live music from Not Fade Away.

2nd Annual Ocala Christmas in July

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free entry — Celebrate Christmas in July with local artisans, crafts, and Summer Santa in a festive atmosphere.

FL Quarter Horse Association Show

All Day — Florida Horse Park — Free entry — Experience a thrilling two-day competition showcasing American Quarter Horses in various classes.