Good morning, Ocala.

Local artist Stacie Rae Pedrick presents her 'Everything and Then Some' exhibit at SouthState Bank's Ocala Boulevard Art Gallery from July 16 to Sept.

29. The free reception on July 23 from 5 to 7 p.m. features music, refreshments, a raffle and remarks by Patricia Proudfoot Kelly at 6 p.m.

On July 9, 2026, the Howard Academy Community Center and Black History Museum hosted America 250: Black Edition to honor Black military service with an Honor Wall display of local family photos.

The event celebrated decades of service by local veterans through displays and personal memorabilia submitted by community members.

Unboxed Productions (based in Belleview) will perform J.

M. Barrie’s 'The Admirable Crichton' online July 30 and 31 at 7 p.m. and Aug. 1 and 2 at 4 p.m. The production honors co-founder Jan Thomas and benefits Wear Gloves charity.

A federal appeals court panel upheld a preliminary injunction blocking part of the Stop WOKE Act from being enforced in classrooms, sparking relief among Florida professors (including those at local institutions).

The ruling limits state restrictions on academic content and protects teaching freedom.

A viral video of a woman petting a wild alligator at Silver Springs State Park is drawing visitors today (including some from the U.K.), while the FWC investigates and warns that close contact could harm the animals.

Wildlife experts say the trend may lead to dangerous encounters.

Four alligator attacks occurred this summer in central Florida; one led to a fatality, 11-year-old Brody Dituri lost his hand, and two others were injured—wildlife experts say the rare incidents should remind residents to stay cautious around waterways.

Ocala police officer and U.S. Army sergeant Dorangelys Maldonado returned on Monday from a yearlong Middle East deployment — greeted with applause by colleagues and department leaders.

She said the support made her proud to serve her community.

The Florida Department of Health reported 50 cyclosporiasis cases between May 1 and July 4, urging local residents to wash produce like bagged salads and herbs thoroughly (handwashing is essential since sanitizers don’t work).

Florida residents can buy a $199.99 pass for unlimited visits to Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure until Dec.

16, but proof of residency is required and the deal excludes Epic Universe and Volcano Bay.

The 10-acre equestrian estate at 901 SW 87th Place in southwest Ocala was sold for $1.325 million on June 26; its deed was recorded on July 7 and the property features a multi-story, four-bedroom home, five paddocks, and a four-stall barn with an apartment.

Right-handed pitcher Lance Hartley from the College of Central Florida was drafted by the Kansas City Royals on Sunday, July 12 — he posted a 2-0 record with a 3.38 ERA over 16 innings with the Patriots.

The 6-foot-5 athlete now embarks on his pro career.

Former Florida Gators quarterback Kerwin Bell (once coaching at Ocala’s Trinity Catholic High School) is in his sixth season as Western Carolina’s head coach and is building a team for a SoCon title.

He credits his UF playing days and family ties for shaping his coaching style.

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.