Good morning, Ocala.

Walter Clayton Jr. spoke to media for the first time today & answered questions about his recent actions and future plans.

Officials expect further details to be shared as the situation develops.

Retired pizzeria owners San Felder and Jacqueline Felder will open their new venture, The Original San’s Pizzeria, later this month at the former Anthony Pizza & Sub location at 9520 NE Jacksonville Road in Anthony.

The Felders, working with their daughter and son-in-law, will offer full service with pick-up and delivery options that bring their 40 years of experience back to the local pizza industry — a fresh option for the community.

Music lovers in Marion County celebrated fifty years of the Ocala Symphony Orchestra—starting its anniversary season with a patriotic concert called 'Red, White, and OSO Blue' held at 3 p.m. at the Reilly Arts Center—with free tickets given to over 100 veterans.

Ross Prairie Elementary School is nearing completion in southwest Ocala—costing $47 million—and will open later this summer to serve up to 860 students in 43 classrooms.

The Ocala City Council will consider renewing a one-year, $88,000 contract with Boot Barn to supply protective footwear to city staff at its Tuesday, July 1 meeting — the renewal follows a February 2022 three-year contract that provided boots at an 18% discount.

This decision will ensure employees receive the necessary safety gear as part of their job requirements.

Marion County officials are preparing for hurricane season by finalizing plans to shelter North Central Florida residents escaping storms — measures that aim to protect the community.

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.