Good morning, Ocala.

Home Depot bought a 22-acre site in southwest Ocala for $4.6 million to build a new 134,000 sqft store — a deal finalized on June 26 after a site plan was filed in May that sets up future construction.

Winn-Dixie has converted eight supermarkets — including one in Ocala — to its brand and will open additional stores in Keystone Heights, Alachua, and Zephyrhills to expand its offerings; customers can transfer rewards via the app to enjoy weekly digital deals.

A retired elementary teacher from Silver Springs said digital learning harms classroom engagement — she urged Marion County Public Schools to abandon costly Chrome Books and online assignments in favor of hands-on teaching.

The Marion County School District received a C grade for the 2025-26 school year this week, ranking 58th out of 67 districts with 59% of total points and missing a B by one percentage point; three school board seats will be contested later this year.

More than 120 new education laws took effect across Florida on July 1, changing requirements for cursive lessons, PE credits, and epinephrine device use; the laws also allow teachers with expired licenses to return to class plus modify union rules, impacting local schools.

Consumer Reports tested rotisserie chickens from 10 retailers (six in Florida) on July 1 and found that Sam's Club offered the best flavor with a paprika rub and moist meat while other stores showed mixed seasoning results.

Berean Baptist Church in southwest Ocala proposed plans on Monday, Jun.

29 to build a 6,000 sqft gym and recreation facility to serve its congregation at 4820 SW 20th Street — the church requested waiver from county Major Site Plan rules to move forward with construction on its 3.95-acre site.

Ocala teen Nacssa Garemore earned a $10,000 bonus and the third fastest time in American Ninja Warrior’s Eastern Regional Qualifiers on Monday, June 29 while competing against 80 top ninjas.

The 18-year-old (a four-time veteran) advanced to Round 2 and will build on his strong performance.

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.