Good morning, Ocala.

Tiffany Oscavich returned a long-lost memorial necklace to Maribel C. after an Ocala-News.com article prompted community sharing - the pendant honoring her late grandson Jackson Xavier now matches a similar keepsake worn by both Maribel and her daughter.

Residents wrote in expressing concern over rapid overdevelopment in Ocala as new housing and apartment projects remove oak trees + worsen road conditions.

They urge officials to pause approvals and upgrade infrastructure to handle growing traffic and tax pressures.

The Ocala CEP is highlighting an art piece celebrating America’s 250th birthday (a nod to the city’s equine legacy) today in Ocala.

A WalletHub report from Jun.

29 ranks Ocala 139th of 150 metro areas for education with attainment (134th) and quality (148th) scores that continue a long trend in local schools. The study evaluated 11 metrics to highlight ongoing challenges in our region.

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.

Summer Series IX: CSI3*/National Hunter/Level 6 Jumper

8 a.m. – 3 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free admission — Experience thrilling hunter/jumper competitions culminating in Saturday night Grand Prix events under the lights.