Good morning, Ocala.

Brew Hope, LLC's new coffee, tea and snack truck in Ocala donates 10% of its profits to support foster care programs and teen job training while serving the community.

The truck held its grand opening on July 4 and now operates in Silver Springs Shores—Carrie Conner said it will visit various pop-up locations soon.

Interfaith Emergency Services is accepting nominations for Legacies of Love—an award recognizing Marion County residents who make a significant impact through their resources, time, and talents.

Nominations must be submitted by email by Aug. 31, and honorees will be announced in October.

On July 4, deputies responded to an Ocala residence when a husband allegedly punched and choked his wife during an argument over a margarita machine, arresting him for domestic battery, false imprisonment, and hindering law enforcement—he was released on a $15,000 bond and is set to appear in court on August 5.

UCF economist Sean Snaith said Florida’s economy will grow steadily but slower — with higher wages and full employment limiting job growth while trade changes and hurricanes remain risks; in Ocala, wages are set to rise from $48,900 to $56,900 by 2028.

His forecast shows mixed signals for local and state markets as economic challenges persist.

Marion County’s 911 emergency phone systems have been restored after a fiber optic cable was cut and now work normally—ensuring that residents can call for help in emergencies.

Technicians fixed the problem quickly to resume full service.

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.

Real Estate Power Team Workshop

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. — Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership — Lunch provided — Learn to build a strong real estate team in North Central Florida.

House of Ruth Back to School Giveaway 2025

12-4 p.m. — Lillian F. Bryant Park — Free — Collect one of 150 free school supply bags in this community support event.

Terracotta Pot Paint Night

7-9 p.m. — The Pavilion at Green Gaits — $45 standard admission — Enjoy a creative evening painting terracotta pots with guidance from a talented instructor.