Good morning, Ocala.

An Ocala resident said his yard was damaged by fiber optic work that dug trenches and left colored utility flags on his lawn two months ago.

The work cut through his irrigation and cable lines and while repairs were made, he now wants to know which company is responsible, the timetable, and next steps—he said his lawn now looks like a circus ground.

On Friday, June 27, at about 6:10 p.m., a 27-year-old motorcyclist from Citra was killed near NE County Road 315 and NE 225th Street in Fort McCoy when a sedan driven by a 43-year-old woman from Callaway turned left in front of him—marking the third fatal accident in Marion County in just over 24 hours.

A Umatilla woman died in a crash in Marion County early Friday morning.

The Marion County Planning and Zoning Commission will consider a proposal on Monday, June 30 to build a new sports and entertainment complex on a nearly 4,300-acre site along W State Road 40 west of NW 87th Court Road— the plan includes an arena, fields, courts, a restaurant, and a hotel and seeks to consolidate existing planned unit developments. Local groups, including Horse Farms Forever, have expressed opposition, and the project was rescheduled from May due to a mailing error.

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.